By: Gwen Pierce
Finding His Song
Nathan Chester’s voice carries the warmth of Motown, the grit of gospel, and the polish of modern pop — a blend that has made him one of the most memorable contestants from Season 25 of The Voice. Known for his magnetic stage presence and soulful delivery, Chester is now taking his talents on the road with The Old Souls Motown Revival, making a stop at UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater on August 23.
Chocolate Chat with Nathan Chester
Can you take us back to the moment you first realized music was your calling?
Ooh! Good question. I was in high school in Chicago, torn between skateboarding (and wanting to go pro) and playing football in college with dreams of the NFL. Music had always been part of my life—my older brother inspired me to sing, and my sister sang around the house. The turning point came when my best friend asked if I wanted to audition for show choir. I fell in love with musical theater and the arts in general. Then I realized… people actually get paid to sing! That was it. I started doing musicals and taking acting, voice, and dance lessons, and that’s what spring-boarded me into this journey.
Who were your biggest musical influences growing up, and how have they shaped your sound?
I went through phases. Early on, I loved Lauryn Hill and Stevie Wonder. Then came a punk rock phase—lots of Paramore and Blink-182. Gospel was also huge for me: Kirk Franklin, Warren Sapp, and Deitrick Haddon. Later, I discovered blues legends like B.B. King and artists inspired by him, like John Mayer. If I had to narrow it down to three, it would be Stevie Wonder, John Mayer, and James Brown.
What was the turning point that transformed your music from a passion into a professional career?
Honestly, my grades were slipping in high school, and I graduated with a 1.9 GPA. But through musicals and festivals—especially being cast in Memphis at the Illinois All-State Festival—I learned you could go to college for musical theater and even earn scholarships. Waldorf University in Iowa accepted me under academic probation but gave me a talent scholarship. My vocal coach suggested I study classical voice, which led to my first paid performance. That first check made me realize I needed to take this seriously. I improved my grades, transferred to the University of Central Missouri, and even made it to the final callbacks for The Book of Mormon. It completely turned my life around.
Is there a performance that stands out as life-changing for you?
Singing with John Legend on The Voice last year was definitely life-changing. It shifted my perspective and deepened my gratitude.
What gave you the courage to audition for The Voice?
It took three tries. I first auditioned at 14, then again during the pandemic with video submissions—both rejections. I had pretty much given up on shows like that. Then, while performing on a cruise ship, a former contestant named Jose saw me and told me I’d be great for The Voice. He connected me with the casting director. Even then, I hesitated, thinking, “Do they really want me?” But I decided to go for it.
What was it like working with EGOT winner John Legend?
He’s so laid-back and easygoing but very direct when it comes to music. He’s funny, but also has a clear vision for the sound he wants. I appreciated how intentional he was in helping shape a performance.
And your duet with him?
I was super nervous—this is John Legend we’re talking about! I just wanted to show up, be solid, and not let him down.
How do you connect with an audience in a big venue?
On The Voice, I asked Keith Urban that exact question when he was mentoring. He told me to use all my senses—if a song mentions flowers, imagine seeing, smelling, and touching them. That sensory connection keeps you grounded and present, and I’ve used that advice ever since.
What’s been your biggest challenge in the music industry?
It’s ongoing—reminding myself I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. A lot of artists chase fame and fortune, but I’ve realized I just want to make a living and enjoy life. I don’t need to be the next Bruno Mars. As long as I can provide for myself and my family, I’ve already succeeded.
What advice would you give aspiring musicians?
Choose your “hard.” Fame is hard. Struggling financially is hard. Every path has challenges, so pick the one that aligns with your happiness. And remember—other people’s expectations don’t have to be your reality.
What new projects are you most excited about?
I just landed my first sync deal, creating music for commercials and TV. My fiancée and I also have a production company building shows for cruise ships, handling casting and training.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I want our production company to be big enough to give opportunities to artists who can’t easily get in front of audiences. After The Voice, I was lucky to return to cruise ship performing. I want to create that kind of platform for others.
How did the Old Souls Motown Revival come about?
After The Voice, my manager said my style was very “old soul.” I told him I wanted to tour and bring Motown’s sound back to audiences worldwide. He said, “Why not call it the Motown Revival?” And here we are.
Nathan Chester & The Old Souls Motown Revival will perform on August 23 at 7:30 PM at the Epstein Family Amphitheater, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla. Tickets: ArtPower.UCSD.edu.