Kevin (the beat-boxer) is a true renaissance man. Listen to his solo of DOWN. The room starts in silence and ends up...well, just listen. :) Kevin graduated from an ivy league school, was going to be a doctor until the Pentatonix gig came along. He also plays the cello and speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese. This young man is amazing in every meaning of that word. Be well, Duke
Kirstie slays this. When the bass drops out and she goes full voice at 7:34, I get choked up every time. Matt-who started the song-has a really beautiful solo in their cover of Sound of Silence. I love his velvety voice. Kevin didn’t know he could sing either until he joined the group. In the early days, he and Avi were roommates and Avi helped him find his voice. KO is stupid talented. 💜
They are singing from the heart in this one. The group doesn't book performances on Saturday because Kevin observes the Sabbath. I've seen videos of Scott singing Mary Did You Know (before the group did it) in his local church. Their movie showed them doing a group prayer before each performance when they're on the road. They're just authentically good and nice people.
Amen, girl. I had nearly EXACTLY the same experience. It wasn't until I was older and I was fighting my illness and I started looking for God in my own way that truly had that relationship with Him, even though I was in church my whole life as a child. This was a wonderful way to wake up this morning, I loved this reaction.
one thing which impresses me, is Kirsten. Listen to how she doesn't just hit the notes but controls them and her vibrato is way better than when they first started, you need to check out Voctave, Kirsten has a few pieces she has with them, but for me, Kisten is the voice that sells this cover
Kevin might be an advanced human from the future sent back to show us our potential. Or Kevin could be the DaVinci of our time. Kevin is such a true genius and a musical genius. He has so many talents in him I can't believe he hasn't self-combusted. Can play multiple instruments, sing, beatbox, write, compose, speaks multiple languages, perfect pitch, as if that wasn't enough, he was pre-med at Yale. He is also a humble and wonderful human. Maybe when he is done making music, he can cure cancer and broker world peace.
Great reaction Britt. PTX hits it out of the park with this one (as usual). This was a fantastic arrangement of the Chris Tomlin enhanced (My Chains are Gone) classical hymn. It has always been a pleasure for me to see a person who comes to that point in their life where they "graduate" from their parents faith to a personal faith of their own. Congrats that you have passed that point in your own life. 😇
This is brilliant and perfect. Definitely in my top 3 of PTX. Now you understand why we said, “Oh no, that other version is only a tiny taste of the sumptuous meal that the official video provides. Listen to the official video.” I also recommend Kevin’s solo Down, as well as the PTX Mary Did You Know cover if you want more of KO’s golden tones. 😊
I'm so glad you listened to us Pentaholics, and you listened to this version. They always sound great, but here you get to hear both Kirstie and Mitch's full verses, and see the beautiful, inspiring setting. Loved your reaction! New sub!
I am so in love with your genuine raw reactions & true love for the music & the PEOPLE behind it! PTX has been my literal saving grace. I have listened to them EVERY DAY since The Sing Off in 2011. They are pure JOY in music/human form. Look at Matt; fan turned band mate & he is ALWAYS smiling! Even in this, when humming the bass line you can see him smiling through it. That is what PTX is. When they won the show in 2011, Kirstie said, that she was so excited, because now the world would get to hear Mith's voice. THAT is PTX. They don't perform on the Sabbath, in respect for Kevin. THAT is PTX. This being said, if you want to hear more Matt solo, The Sound of Silence or The Grinch, or It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year. For more Kevin, either his solo stuff, Down or Sign of The Times, and with PTX.....I think you need to react to IMAGINE. For him, but also to truly get to know them and be hit by the PTX Wall of Sound. It is also such a poignant, meaningful & so relevant cover of the timeless John Lennon classic. I think it will resonate with you and you will truly appreciate it, and our beloved PTX alien unicorn angels. Until the next one, I will have the day I deserve, and you as well doll!
Their version of Marry Did You Know needs to find its way into your list somehow. I used to be religious, and have drifted away from it over the years, but their rendition of that song, moved me spiritually, and to tears.
The location where they decided to shoot this video is one place I'd really like to visit CA to see. The Wayfarer's Chapel is just such a gorgeous location, it's hard to imagine filming this song anywhere that would be better. And of course, the full version of the song from PTX - couldn't ask for more!
Like I said before, the one that started is Matt. He is the main Bass singer and he replaced the job that Avi did before he left the group! Kevin, who finished the song is the beatboxer! He sings occassionally but Matt sings all the time! Her name is Kirsten. Sometimes called Kirstie (rhymes with Thirsty). 🎶🎶👱♀👱♀👗👗👠👠❤❤
Pentatonix They won The Sing Off in 2011. They made a guest starring appearance on America′s Got Talent as non−competitors a couple of years after that. The founding members are:- Scott Hoying (tall blond guy, natural baritone but has an impressive five−to−six octave range, can go all the way up to high tenor and down to bass, sings the bass lines when the usual bass singer takes the lead);
Kirstin "Kirstie" (Rhymes with "Thirsty") Maldonado (the only female member, natural mezzo soprano, but can go down to low alto and as high as upper soprano, also can sing in whistle notes that are off the scale); For a time in 2018 between the group’s tours, had the female lead on Broadway in the production of “Kinky Boots”. Mitch Grassi (a true contra−tenor, can hit high notes in his chest voice with ease and go WAY higher in his falsetto, also with ease); Avriel "Avi" Kaplan (dark beard and long hair)(not in this video), true basso profundo, trained as an opera singer, also can go up into the tenor range; and Kevin "KO" Olusola (beatboxer extraordinaire, also is a world−class cellist who plays cello on some of their songs, has a beautiful high tenor voice and gets occasional lead vocal solos as well, graduated pre−med from Yale and speaks several languages including Mandarin Chinese). Kirstie, Scott & Mitch grew up together in Arlington, Texas, and began performing together as children in local youth musical theater. They ended up in high school together and performed in the choir. While there, they formed an a cappella group called The Trio which had several performance videos go viral on UA-cam, most notably a cover of Lady Gaga′s "Telephone". The three of them are best friends and consider themselves to be almost siblings. Scott & Kirstie (who were a class year ahead of Mitch) both graduated high school in 2010 and went their separate ways to different colleges, Scott at USC and Kirstie at Oklahoma. While at USC, Scott joined a USC−based a cappella group called the SoCal VoCals, where he met alumnus Ben Bram, who was now an arranger and vocal coach for the NBC TV show The Sing Off, an a cappella competition show. Ben convinced Scott to get The Trio to audition for the show. The three reunited (Mitch had to skip high school graduation ceremonies to go) in Los Angeles for the audition. They found out that the rules had changed, so they needed at least five members to audition. Ben put them together with Avi (a native of Visalia, California), who he knew from Avi′s performing days at Mount San Antonio College in California. They found Kevin (from Kentucky) through one of his UA-cam videos that had gone viral featuring him playing the cello and beatboxing at the same time, a talent that Kevin coined as "Cello−Boxing". Kevin arrived in Los Angeles literally the day before the audition! Scott came up with the name "Pentatonix" after the pentatonic scale. They performed a re−arrangement of "The Telephone" for the audition and passed, despite having been together as a five−piece group for less that 24 hours! They won The Sing Off that season (all of the performances are available on UA-cam), in which they received a substantial cash prize AND a record contract with Epic Records. They pooled their prize winnings together and all moved to Los Angeles, and all got apartments right next door to each other in the same building. But just a week later, Epic dropped them because the marketing people didn′t think an a cappella group could sell records. Instead of giving up, they were determined and began recording their own songs on UA-cam, hiring Ben Bram as their producer and arranger. These usually consisted of the five of them sitting on a couch and performing cover songs live. Several of the videos went viral, and Sony (the parent company of Epic) decided to give them another chance by placing them on one of their smaller labels, Madison Gate. They released two secular EPs and one Christmas EP on Madison Gate, all of which were strong sellers. But when their cove r of a medley of songs by Daft Punk not only went super−viral, but also won them their first Grammy, they were promoted all the way up to RCA Records, Sony′s top label. They began writing and producing their own songs in addition to their covers, began putting out a Christmas album just about annually (which has become their best−selling genre), and have had multi−platinum album sales, sold−out world tours, and have won two additional Grammys. Avi began getting burned out with all of the touring and heavy recording schedule, was suffering from anxiety and personal problems, and learned that his mother had been diagnosed with cancer in 2017. He announced he was departing from the group and taking some time away from the music industry. Matt Sallee (from Baltimore) joined them in September 2017. He did only become official when they renewed their RCA contract in February 2018, but he recorded with them in September as a featured artist and went on their Christmas tour as a featured artist, as well. When he attended the audition for the group, he had already mastered the Bass part for most if not all their past catalogue. He was successful and has proved that he fits in well with the group. If you think there have been other changes to the line up - look again. This is the ONLY change. Kirstie and Mitch are like chameleons and change looks frequently. After a year away from music, Avi has now returned as a phenomenal solo artist in the Folk/Americana/Roots genre. Ben Bram has been in charge of their production, including arranging and directing from the beginning. He is often referred to as the sixth member. Scott and Kevin are major players in the arrangements, but every member contributes. good watch is "The Recording of Evergreen" where a camera was invited into the studio for the second week of recording/ Also, all members are songwriters for both Pentatonix and their own solo work. Ed Boyer who mixes everything of theirs (even the HWB Livestream) is the one who pulled Ben Bram into the sing off in the first place. They were nominated for a 4th Grammy for their album Evergreen, but didn't win. Kirstie became a new mum which caused a pause in touring after their Evergreen Christmas tour 2021. Mid March 2023 Kirstie has announced that she is engaged to Ben Hausdorff, their videographer. No dates YET! They have a star on the Hollywood walk of fame installed in February 2023. They are the only a capella group with a star! Things you need to know because if you get these wrong Pentaholics will come after you with pitch forks and torches! Ha Ha!! 1- There is NO Auto-Tune; what you hear is actually what they sing. They really are that good. One exception is the 90's Dance Medley where Cher used autotune as an effect - so they had to. 2- What produces everything that you hear in the video, you see in the official video. If there is an instrument used in the music, you see it on screen. In the 2022 Christmas album, there are some instruments not featured throughout the album. 3- They never release something on video they can’t reproduce with the exact same quality live on-stage.
Just one revision, Scott and Mitch met when they were around 10 years old in the community theater. Kirsti knew Mitch from kindergarten, but never met Scott until high school.
Kevin, the beat boxer, is very religious. He even does religious podcasts and due to his beliefs, they do not do concerts on Friday (?) nights. In Imagine, both Kevin and Kirstie said they were Christian. I know Avi is Jewish, but no idea on the beliefs of the others and I don't really need to know. I just know they sing this song with grace and passion.
Kevin is a Seventh Day Adventist I believe. Seventh Day Adventists observe the Sabbath of the Bible that God commanded to be observed at creation and the 4th commandment. God defines the duration of the Sabbath as sunset of Friday night to sunset of Saturday night and Israel was not to do any work during that time. So you'll find that many Seventh Day Adventists today do not work, or in Kevin's case perform during that time period each week.
Definitely need to check out their version of 'The Prayer'. If you're unfamiliar with the song, first check out the Celine Dion/Andrea Bocelli version. I also recommend Can You Feel The Love Tonight & Say Something. Lastly, I recommend a Pentatonix playlist so we can see what you've already reactted to.
Last singer, Kevin Olusola. He is by far the most roundly talented. He sings, beatboxes, plays cello and saxophone and speaks Chinese fluently. Check out his solo version of 'Down' (Marion HIll cover). You will not regret that.
You need to check out some of their Christmas covers, The First Noel, Silent Night (live in a cathedral), Carol of the Bells, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy (all instumental), God Rest You Merry Gentlemen, Making Christmas (very dynamic), White Winter Hymnal, You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch, My Favorite Things, 12 Days of Christmas, Mary Did You Know?...YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED! ALSO, their Cover of Problem (live version)!!!!!
Just found you tonight. Second PTX song in a row I've watched you react to. I love your reactions. And thank you for unashamedly sharing your faith. Glad to call you my sister in Christ!
Great Reaction! I love watching you react to power songs like this one. Your love of music shines. I am a fan and will be following you and your reactions. God Bless ✌️❤️🙏
I believe that Kevin, Matt and Kirstie are believers in Christ. Scott and Mitch have said they are spiritual. This one had chills going up and down my spine! Those of us who Believe - know exactly how you were feeling!! Love your reactions! ❤🙏🏻
You got it right. I think they all may have grown up in church and choir but Kevin, Matt and Kirstie are believers. Scott and Mitch are religious or at least believe in a higher power
Several folks have already said to check Kevin Olusola's solo YT channel. And most have recommended starting with the cover of Marian Hill's "Down." That'd be good. Kevin is a classic overachiever. There's a vid, still on YT, where he performed a saxophone solo at Carnegie Hall when he was 17. He speaks English, Spanish, Mandarin. Has a music degree from Berklee. Has a pre-Med degree from Yale; but due to being brought into Pentatonix right before they competed on The Sing-Off, he's never completed his Doctorate (yet). While in mainland China on some kind of sponsored "goodwill" tour, he invented the art form of celloboxing. In "down," you'll see him play a mean electric cello plus a tad of keyboard, sing in multiple octaves, and perform the whole song live with a soundwall by using looping machines.
you are a delight to watch and to listen to. Listen to Mary Did You Know and Imagine to hear a bit more of Kevin singing. He is an incredible talent as well as a scholar and exceptional musician. When he brings out Beyonce (his cello), sit down and be ready (Shallow).
They are great. They won 3 grammys out of 4 nominations. Not bad for a acapella group. Check out their version " Imagine " That John Lennon did. Do The Prayer for sure. Love ur reaction. Keep it up....ur great!!
Thank you Jesus for her revelation of your ransom. Thank you for not being ashamed of standing for God. You have a beautiful spirit young lady. Blessings from Tennessee
You’re right Britt, Amazing Grace is generally thought of as a song of sorrow sung at funerals, but the Chris Tomlin arrangement of this song, turned it into a song of joy! They are all Christians, with varying degrees of understanding and practice. They wouldn’t do so many songs like this if they weren’t. PTX takes a stand that is not easy in the entertainment industry, the view that there is something bigger than themselves. ❤
Kevin has a good singing part at the end of “Mary, Did you know”. It’s my most favorite song of theirs. Thanks for reacting. I love each and every reaction!🙏🏼🌹💕
This was a beautiful version . I felt like each time one of them sang-regardless of their own personal beliefs - you could sense what their journey has been like and how this song resonates with them . All emotions here❤❤❤
Kevin has sung in several songs, Little Drummer boy, Mary Did You know?, Imagine, Sing, come immediately to mind.Former Bass, Avi is largely responsible for getting Kevin to train to sing. Look out Kevin's solo stuff though, Especially 'Down'
Matt is an outstandind bass, bsari, tenor and professional cellist. He had to take his final in premed at Harvard before he would go to Pentatonix. They recruited him after seeing him beatbox while playing cello on youtube.
Kevin is the beat boxer and Matt took Avi’s place singing bass. When Matt sings, Scott (baritone) takes over. Also her name is Kirstin/Kirstie (like thirsty) is a mezzo-soprano, Mitch is the tenor, and PLEASE REACT TO MORE PTX. Imagine, radioactive, Mary did you know, Hallelujah, the evolution of RhiRhi and Ariana. Mitch is so cute in the Ariana evolution because he absolutely LOVES HER! Have a blessed day!
I knew you would love their video. you know another amazing artist you should listen to, or at least I haven't seen you react to any of her performances, but her name is SoHyang. "bridge over troubled water" and "you raise me up" performances are 2 of my favs. Power house woman! she has a church background too I believe she'll definitely take you to church the way she sings lol
I believe that they are all angels. Now u need to react to "The Prayer". Also like everyone says "Down". Kevin is one of the most talented people i have ever seen. He also speaks different languages.
it's long past Christmas, but for anothe taste of Kevin singing, check out their version of "Little Drummer Boy". It's the best I ever heard. As usual, great reaction. Love your channel, subscribed the first time I saw it.
Thank you for this Britt. Timeless beautiful song, taken to a whole new level here. Their talent 8s just phenomenal. This, "Mary Did You Know", also by PTX.... "I Can Only Imagine"-Mercy Me, "You Say"-Lauren Daigle, & "You Raise Me Up" by Celtic Woman are my absolute favorite inspirational songs. (Hope you review these when you can Britt, they are soul stirring)
And btw, if you want to hear Kevin like you've never heard before check out their original Sing! It has a lot of fans and celebrities and Kevin does some rap that'll blow your mind.
I love how they sound like a pipe organ when they co.e together right at first. It builds in intensity then the angel Special K brings it back to earth.
Thank you for your reaction❤ I'm grateful to hear this stunning rendition again today on Palm Sunday 🌴 God Bless You and all who are listening 🙏 Amazing Grace indeed ✝️
You mentioned growing up in a Black church and I'm just imagining the church mothers running up and down the aisles if they ever sang this during praise and worship...cuz they had me crying the first 50 times I listened to it.
I love you. Your reactions are so joyful. I'm sure others have probably commented, but Mitch, Kirsti and Scott grew up together in church. Kevin, the beat-boxer/cellist/tenor is also devoutly Christian. My faith has rarely been a big part of my life, yet I consider myself to be a Christian believer. When I heard that they pray together before they perform it moved my soul.
Kevin actually doesn't do the low notes you hear in their songs. That would be Matt or Scott (or Avi). Kevin is a pretty high tenor and has such a beautiful clear voice. He really shows off just how high he can sing in Imagine - which you'd miss if you weren't watching to see his mouth moving when these angelic high notes are soaring over the rest of their wall of sound. I think that might be one for you to see very soon. The way they bring the message of that song into the 21st century is amazing.
If you want more Kevin singing, check out 'Imagine', or 'Say Something', or for a bit of an upbeat kind of song check out their original 'Sing'! Have tissues for the first two though!
Kevin (the beat-boxer) is a true renaissance man. Listen to his solo of DOWN. The room starts in silence and ends up...well, just listen. :) Kevin graduated from an ivy league school, was going to be a doctor until the Pentatonix gig came along. He also plays the cello and speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese. This young man is amazing in every meaning of that word. Be well, Duke
" Down" is unbelievable. My mouth drops plenty wverytime. Kevin is awesome in every way.
"Down" is awesome but I like his cover of the Animals "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" even more. He's a genuine one man band.
@@rimasmuliolis1136 Yes, I agree, Kevin should be Sir Kevin...he is a renaissance man, Be well, Duke
Yes! Kevin is amazing in this!!
Kirstie slays this. When the bass drops out and she goes full voice at 7:34, I get choked up every time. Matt-who started the song-has a really beautiful solo in their cover of Sound of Silence. I love his velvety voice. Kevin didn’t know he could sing either until he joined the group. In the early days, he and Avi were roommates and Avi helped him find his voice. KO is stupid talented. 💜
And don't forget " The Grinch"!
Amazing, right?! This version is completely on fire. Pentatonix is a major rabbit hole to go down...
they are so talented!
They are singing from the heart in this one. The group doesn't book performances on Saturday because Kevin observes the Sabbath. I've seen videos of Scott singing Mary Did You Know (before the group did it) in his local church. Their movie showed them doing a group prayer before each performance when they're on the road. They're just authentically good and nice people.
Amen, girl. I had nearly EXACTLY the same experience. It wasn't until I was older and I was fighting my illness and I started looking for God in my own way that truly had that relationship with Him, even though I was in church my whole life as a child. This was a wonderful way to wake up this morning, I loved this reaction.
one thing which impresses me, is Kirsten. Listen to how she doesn't just hit the notes but controls them and her vibrato is way better than when they first started, you need to check out Voctave, Kirsten has a few pieces she has with them, but for me, Kisten is the voice that sells this cover
I'm pausing before Mitch and Kirsty. You will get Kirsty slapped in this one. Her range is absolutely crazy! She makes this song and more.
little drummer boy ---- mind blowing
It is okay to get teary eyed and weepy. Pentatonix can do that to people a lot and we are okay with it. It makes us realize you are human.
Kevin might be an advanced human from the future sent back to show us our potential. Or Kevin could be the DaVinci of our time. Kevin is such a true genius and a musical genius. He has so many talents in him I can't believe he hasn't self-combusted. Can play multiple instruments, sing, beatbox, write, compose, speaks multiple languages, perfect pitch, as if that wasn't enough, he was pre-med at Yale. He is also a humble and wonderful human.
Maybe when he is done making music, he can cure cancer and broker world peace.
Great reaction Britt. PTX hits it out of the park with this one (as usual). This was a fantastic arrangement of the Chris Tomlin enhanced (My Chains are Gone) classical hymn. It has always been a pleasure for me to see a person who comes to that point in their life where they "graduate" from their parents faith to a personal faith of their own. Congrats that you have passed that point in your own life. 😇
I love the wings embroidered on the back of Mitch’s jacket!
The conviction, my chains are gone. I've been set free.
This is brilliant and perfect. Definitely in my top 3 of PTX. Now you understand why we said, “Oh no, that other version is only a tiny taste of the sumptuous meal that the official video provides. Listen to the official video.” I also recommend Kevin’s solo Down, as well as the PTX Mary Did You Know cover if you want more of KO’s golden tones. 😊
I'm so glad you listened to us Pentaholics, and you listened to this version. They always sound great, but here you get to hear both Kirstie and Mitch's full verses, and see the beautiful, inspiring setting. Loved your reaction! New sub!
I am so in love with your genuine raw reactions & true love for the music & the PEOPLE behind it! PTX has been my literal saving grace. I have listened to them EVERY DAY since The Sing Off in 2011. They are pure JOY in music/human form. Look at Matt; fan turned band mate & he is ALWAYS smiling! Even in this, when humming the bass line you can see him smiling through it. That is what PTX is. When they won the show in 2011, Kirstie said, that she was so excited, because now the world would get to hear Mith's voice. THAT is PTX. They don't perform on the Sabbath, in respect for Kevin. THAT is PTX. This being said, if you want to hear more Matt solo, The Sound of Silence or The Grinch, or It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year. For more Kevin, either his solo stuff, Down or Sign of The Times, and with PTX.....I think you need to react to IMAGINE. For him, but also to truly get to know them and be hit by the PTX Wall of Sound. It is also such a poignant, meaningful & so relevant cover of the timeless John Lennon classic. I think it will resonate with you and you will truly appreciate it, and our beloved PTX alien unicorn angels. Until the next one, I will have the day I deserve, and you as well doll!
He always seems to sing anytime the song is about God, and Kevin is a devout Christian!
So glad you experienced this version ❤
thank you!
This one makes me cry everytime. So powerful.
The beatboxer; Kevin Olusola, from PTX has songs. He has a cover of Down that is mind blowing.
Look for Run To You by Pentatonix. Original song written by Kevin and Avi...beautiful music.
I was actually laughing when you commented about Kirstie taking a step back. Her verse is insane.
Matt the bass, trained at Berkeley School of Music; Kevin graduated from Yale. Both very well trained.
Thank god you checked out the full version!! ❤
PS if you haven't heard this song I suggest having a tissue. Made me cry with joy in my heart 🤷♀️🤗
Kevin did a few songs on his channel. Down and Signs of the times. Give those a watch, he’s a master at what he does
I will keep it in mind, thanks! ✍️
And Renegade, and True Colors
Pure Pentatonix Perfection - every time. Please react to The Prayer.
Their version of Marry Did You Know needs to find its way into your list somehow. I used to be religious, and have drifted away from it over the years, but their rendition of that song, moved me spiritually, and to tears.
The location where they decided to shoot this video is one place I'd really like to visit CA to see. The Wayfarer's Chapel is just such a gorgeous location, it's hard to imagine filming this song anywhere that would be better.
And of course, the full version of the song from PTX - couldn't ask for more!
You made me tear up and I’ve seen this video probably a hundred times. Beautiful reaction!
Matt is stunning in base theater stuff. THE Grinch is stunning.
Like I said before, the one that started is Matt. He is the main Bass singer and he replaced the job that Avi did before he left the group! Kevin, who finished the song is the beatboxer! He sings occassionally but Matt sings all the time! Her name is Kirsten. Sometimes called Kirstie (rhymes with Thirsty). 🎶🎶👱♀👱♀👗👗👠👠❤❤
Pentatonix
They won The Sing Off in 2011. They made a guest starring appearance on America′s Got Talent as non−competitors a couple of years after that.
The founding members are:-
Scott Hoying (tall blond guy, natural baritone but has an impressive five−to−six octave range, can go all the way up to high tenor and down to bass, sings the bass lines when the usual bass singer takes the lead);
Kirstin "Kirstie" (Rhymes with "Thirsty") Maldonado (the only female member, natural mezzo soprano, but can go down to low alto and as high as upper soprano, also can sing in whistle notes that are off the scale); For a time in 2018 between the group’s tours, had the female lead on Broadway in the production of “Kinky Boots”.
Mitch Grassi (a true contra−tenor, can hit high notes in his chest voice with ease and go WAY higher in his falsetto, also with ease);
Avriel "Avi" Kaplan (dark beard and long hair)(not in this video), true basso profundo, trained as an opera singer, also can go up into the tenor range; and
Kevin "KO" Olusola (beatboxer extraordinaire, also is a world−class cellist who plays cello on some of their songs, has a beautiful high tenor voice and gets occasional lead vocal solos as well, graduated pre−med from Yale and speaks several languages including Mandarin Chinese).
Kirstie, Scott & Mitch grew up together in Arlington, Texas, and began performing together as children in local youth musical theater. They ended up in high school together and performed in the choir. While there, they formed an a cappella group called The Trio which had several performance videos go viral on UA-cam, most notably a cover of Lady Gaga′s "Telephone". The three of them are best friends and consider themselves to be almost siblings.
Scott & Kirstie (who were a class year ahead of Mitch) both graduated high school in 2010 and went their separate ways to different colleges, Scott at USC and Kirstie at Oklahoma.
While at USC, Scott joined a USC−based a cappella group called the SoCal VoCals, where he met alumnus Ben Bram, who was now an arranger and vocal coach for the NBC TV show The Sing Off, an a cappella competition show. Ben convinced Scott to get The Trio to audition for the show. The three reunited (Mitch had to skip high school graduation ceremonies to go) in Los Angeles for the audition.
They found out that the rules had changed, so they needed at least five members to audition. Ben put them together with Avi (a native of Visalia, California), who he knew from Avi′s performing days at Mount San Antonio College in California. They found Kevin (from Kentucky) through one of his UA-cam videos that had gone viral featuring him playing the cello and beatboxing at the same time, a talent that Kevin coined as "Cello−Boxing".
Kevin arrived in Los Angeles literally the day before the audition! Scott came up with the name "Pentatonix" after the pentatonic scale. They performed a re−arrangement of "The Telephone" for the audition and passed, despite having been together as a five−piece group for less that 24 hours!
They won The Sing Off that season (all of the performances are available on UA-cam), in which they received a substantial cash prize AND a record contract with Epic Records. They pooled their prize winnings together and all moved to Los Angeles, and all got apartments right next door to each other in the same building.
But just a week later, Epic dropped them because the marketing people didn′t think an a cappella group could sell records.
Instead of giving up, they were determined and began recording their own songs on UA-cam, hiring Ben Bram as their producer and arranger. These usually consisted of the five of them sitting on a couch and performing cover songs live.
Several of the videos went viral, and Sony (the parent company of Epic) decided to give them another chance by placing them on one of their smaller labels, Madison Gate. They released two secular EPs and one Christmas EP on Madison Gate, all of which were strong sellers.
But when their cove r of a medley of songs by Daft Punk not only went super−viral, but also won them their first Grammy, they were promoted all the way up to RCA Records, Sony′s top label.
They began writing and producing their own songs in addition to their covers, began putting out a Christmas album just about annually (which has become their best−selling genre), and have had multi−platinum album sales, sold−out world tours, and have won two additional Grammys.
Avi began getting burned out with all of the touring and heavy recording schedule, was suffering from anxiety and personal problems, and learned that his mother had been diagnosed with cancer in 2017. He announced he was departing from the group and taking some time away from the music industry.
Matt Sallee (from Baltimore) joined them in September 2017. He did only become official when they renewed their RCA contract in February 2018, but he recorded with them in September as a featured artist and went on their Christmas tour as a featured artist, as well. When he attended the audition for the group, he had already mastered the Bass part for most if not all their past catalogue. He was successful and has proved that he fits in well with the group.
If you think there have been other changes to the line up - look again. This is the ONLY change. Kirstie and Mitch are like chameleons and change looks frequently.
After a year away from music, Avi has now returned as a phenomenal solo artist in the Folk/Americana/Roots genre.
Ben Bram has been in charge of their production, including arranging and directing from the beginning. He is often referred to as the sixth member. Scott and Kevin are major players in the arrangements, but every member contributes. good watch is "The Recording of Evergreen" where a camera was invited into the studio for the second week of recording/
Also, all members are songwriters for both Pentatonix and their own solo work.
Ed Boyer who mixes everything of theirs (even the HWB Livestream) is the one who pulled Ben Bram into the sing off in the first place.
They were nominated for a 4th Grammy for their album Evergreen, but didn't win.
Kirstie became a new mum which caused a pause in touring after their Evergreen Christmas tour 2021. Mid March 2023 Kirstie has announced that she is engaged to Ben Hausdorff, their videographer. No dates YET!
They have a star on the Hollywood walk of fame installed in February 2023. They are the only a capella group with a star!
Things you need to know because if you get these wrong Pentaholics will come after you with pitch forks and torches! Ha Ha!!
1- There is NO Auto-Tune; what you hear is actually what they sing. They really are that good. One exception is the 90's Dance Medley where Cher used autotune as an effect - so they had to.
2- What produces everything that you hear in the video, you see in the official video. If there is an instrument used in the music, you see it on screen. In the 2022 Christmas album, there are some instruments not featured throughout the album.
3- They never release something on video they can’t reproduce with the exact same quality live on-stage.
Fantastic write up.
Thank you
Just one revision, Scott and Mitch met when they were around 10 years old in the community theater. Kirsti knew Mitch from kindergarten, but never met Scott until high school.
If this moved you this much you need to listen to their official video of the Prayer
Kevin, the beat boxer, is very religious. He even does religious podcasts and due to his beliefs, they do not do concerts on Friday (?) nights. In Imagine, both Kevin and Kirstie said they were Christian. I know Avi is Jewish, but no idea on the beliefs of the others and I don't really need to know. I just know they sing this song with grace and passion.
Kevin is a Seventh Day Adventist I believe. Seventh Day Adventists observe the Sabbath of the Bible that God commanded to be observed at creation and the 4th commandment. God defines the duration of the Sabbath as sunset of Friday night to sunset of Saturday night and Israel was not to do any work during that time. So you'll find that many Seventh Day Adventists today do not work, or in Kevin's case perform during that time period each week.
Definitely need to check out their version of 'The Prayer'. If you're unfamiliar with the song, first check out the Celine Dion/Andrea Bocelli version.
I also recommend Can You Feel The Love Tonight & Say Something.
Lastly, I recommend a Pentatonix playlist so we can see what you've already reactted to.
He cello-boxes in Shallow
And sings in Mary did you know
Last singer, Kevin Olusola. He is by far the most roundly talented. He sings, beatboxes, plays cello and saxophone and speaks Chinese fluently. Check out his solo version of 'Down' (Marion HIll cover). You will not regret that.
AMEN BRITT
Every tine I hear this I get chills!!
You need to check out some of their Christmas covers, The First Noel, Silent Night (live in a cathedral), Carol of the Bells, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy (all instumental), God Rest You Merry Gentlemen, Making Christmas (very dynamic), White Winter Hymnal, You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch, My Favorite Things, 12 Days of Christmas, Mary Did You Know?...YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!
ALSO, their Cover of Problem (live version)!!!!!
You should see Kirstie in their video "Can't Help Falling In Love With You"!!!
All right - you are hearing the full version! Great stuff!
The "beatboxer" (the last one to sing) is actually a cello player by training.
Kevin is awesome in some of his solo stuff look up KOver (KO is his initials) he does full covers looping! Awesome!
Crazy vocal talent pooled together, my conspiracy theory....👽👽👽👽👽's....pretty sure....
Just found you tonight. Second PTX song in a row I've watched you react to. I love your reactions. And thank you for unashamedly sharing your faith. Glad to call you my sister in Christ!
Matt, mainly does bass, his introduction to the group was on sound of silence
Great Reaction! I love watching you react to power songs like this one. Your love of music shines. I am a fan and will be following you and your reactions. God Bless ✌️❤️🙏
I love this song
I love Pentatonix for their Christmas and Christian songs. They're phenomenal. You'll love their "Mary did you know" performance.
I believe that Kevin, Matt and Kirstie are believers in Christ. Scott and Mitch have said they are spiritual. This one had chills going up and down my spine! Those of us who Believe - know exactly how you were feeling!! Love your reactions! ❤🙏🏻
You got it right. I think they all may have grown up in church and choir but Kevin, Matt and Kirstie are believers. Scott and Mitch are religious or at least believe in a higher power
Several folks have already said to check Kevin Olusola's solo YT channel. And most have recommended starting with the cover of Marian Hill's "Down." That'd be good.
Kevin is a classic overachiever. There's a vid, still on YT, where he performed a saxophone solo at Carnegie Hall when he was 17. He speaks English, Spanish, Mandarin. Has a music degree from Berklee. Has a pre-Med degree from Yale; but due to being brought into Pentatonix right before they competed on The Sing-Off, he's never completed his Doctorate (yet). While in mainland China on some kind of sponsored "goodwill" tour, he invented the art form of celloboxing. In "down," you'll see him play a mean electric cello plus a tad of keyboard, sing in multiple octaves, and perform the whole song live with a soundwall by using looping machines.
you are a delight to watch and to listen to. Listen to Mary Did You Know and Imagine to hear a bit more of Kevin singing. He is an incredible talent as well as a scholar and exceptional musician. When he brings out Beyonce (his cello), sit down and be ready (Shallow).
I am so happy that they all found each other. It doesn't even seem right that 5 people so talented (6 with Avi) were able to get together.
3 of them went to the same school.
Because the other members can't beat box, Kevin doesn't get to sing very often, but you can check out his solo songs Kevin Olousa
Kevin has done some covers that are amazing; "Down" comes to mind, where he is a one-man-band looping himself.
They are great. They won 3 grammys out of 4 nominations. Not bad for a acapella group. Check out their version " Imagine " That John Lennon did. Do The Prayer for sure. Love ur reaction. Keep it up....ur great!!
Thank you Jesus for her revelation of your ransom. Thank you for not being ashamed of standing for God. You have a beautiful spirit young lady. Blessings from Tennessee
Pentatonix is the only group that becomes the songs they sing.
All the singers are great. but you MUST watch Kevin doing "Down". What talent!!
This version also had me hearing this oh so familiar song in such a different way, I felt saved all over again!
Pentatonic is awesome when it comes to acapella. Also can u try to watch the version of 4th impact on amazing grace. Thnx miss brit.
L ove, love, love them! Could listen to them all day. Never get tired of them.
You’re right Britt, Amazing Grace is generally thought of as a song of sorrow sung at funerals, but the Chris Tomlin arrangement of this song, turned it into a song of joy! They are all Christians, with varying degrees of understanding and practice. They wouldn’t do so many songs like this if they weren’t. PTX takes a stand that is not easy in the entertainment industry, the view that there is something bigger than themselves. ❤
Kevin has a good singing part at the end of “Mary, Did you know”. It’s my most favorite song of theirs. Thanks for reacting. I love each and every reaction!🙏🏼🌹💕
This was a beautiful version . I felt like each time one of them sang-regardless of their own personal beliefs - you could sense what their journey has been like and how this song resonates with them . All emotions here❤❤❤
You are very expressive, and, for me at least, it makes for a great reaction!😊
Thank you for speaking the Gospel.
They are so talented. I got to see them in concert several years ago. They are awesome in person.
This reaction was a blessing to me. I subscribed because of this song. Please react to more Pentatonix.
Amen sister! 😇
Kevin has sung in several songs, Little Drummer boy, Mary Did You know?, Imagine, Sing, come immediately to mind.Former Bass, Avi is largely responsible for getting Kevin to train to sing. Look out Kevin's solo stuff though, Especially 'Down'
Love this!!
Thank you.
Matt is an outstandind bass, bsari, tenor and professional cellist. He had to take his final in premed at Harvard before he would go to Pentatonix. They recruited him after seeing him beatbox while playing cello on youtube.
I'm not a Christian and I have 0 faith or belief in the spiritual, and even I get chills from this rendition of this song.
Kevin is the beat boxer and Matt took Avi’s place singing bass. When Matt sings, Scott (baritone) takes over. Also her name is Kirstin/Kirstie (like thirsty) is a mezzo-soprano, Mitch is the tenor, and PLEASE REACT TO MORE PTX. Imagine, radioactive, Mary did you know, Hallelujah, the evolution of RhiRhi and Ariana. Mitch is so cute in the Ariana evolution because he absolutely LOVES HER! Have a blessed day!
They all have amazing ranges.
If you watch Imagine, you'll hear Kevin sing at the end. If you watch Come Along and Prayers for this World, you'll get to hear Matt in both of those.
Peace, Love!!
I knew you would love their video. you know another amazing artist you should listen to, or at least I haven't seen you react to any of her performances, but her name is SoHyang.
"bridge over troubled water" and "you raise me up" performances are 2 of my favs. Power house woman! she has a church background too I believe she'll definitely take you to church the way she sings lol
I love your reactions, your thoughts and your spirit.
I believe that they are all angels. Now u need to react to "The Prayer". Also like everyone says "Down". Kevin is one of the most talented people i have ever seen. He also speaks different languages.
it's long past Christmas, but for anothe taste of Kevin singing, check out their version of "Little Drummer Boy". It's the best I ever heard. As usual, great reaction. Love your channel, subscribed the first time I saw it.
Kevin also has a small solo part in Mary Did You Know.
thank you so much!! I'm glad you enjoy the videos! I will keep this in mind, thanks! ✍️
Britt you have a beautiful voice as well! ❤
Kevin sings in “Mary Did You Know” also.
Thank you for this Britt. Timeless beautiful song, taken to a whole new level here. Their talent 8s just phenomenal. This, "Mary Did You Know", also by PTX.... "I Can Only Imagine"-Mercy Me, "You Say"-Lauren Daigle, & "You Raise Me Up" by Celtic Woman are my absolute favorite inspirational songs. (Hope you review these when you can Britt, they are soul stirring)
Goosebumps throughout!! Gorgeous!!
truly!
And btw, if you want to hear Kevin like you've never heard before check out their original Sing! It has a lot of fans and celebrities and Kevin does some rap that'll blow your mind.
I love how they sound like a pipe organ when they co.e together right at first. It builds in intensity then the angel Special K brings it back to earth.
what a great way to describe it!
I would love to see you react to some of Kevin's solo work. He does a cover of "Down" that is very special.
Thank you for your reaction❤ I'm grateful to hear this stunning rendition again today on Palm Sunday 🌴 God Bless You and all who are listening 🙏 Amazing Grace indeed ✝️
You mentioned growing up in a Black church and I'm just imagining the church mothers running up and down the aisles if they ever sang this during praise and worship...cuz they had me crying the first 50 times I listened to it.
This was the official release version and has an extra verse I think that the live version you reviewed earlier doesn't have.
This is my favorite hymn and Pentatonix is amazing 😊😊😊😊😊
You really need to hear Kevin's version of Down. It's incredible.
I love you. Your reactions are so joyful. I'm sure others have probably commented, but Mitch, Kirsti and Scott grew up together in church. Kevin, the beat-boxer/cellist/tenor is also devoutly Christian. My faith has rarely been a big part of my life, yet I consider myself to be a Christian believer. When I heard that they pray together before they perform it moved my soul.
The beautiful voice of Kevin Olusula, You should check out his cover of Down!!!
Kevin actually doesn't do the low notes you hear in their songs. That would be Matt or Scott (or Avi). Kevin is a pretty high tenor and has such a beautiful clear voice. He really shows off just how high he can sing in Imagine - which you'd miss if you weren't watching to see his mouth moving when these angelic high notes are soaring over the rest of their wall of sound. I think that might be one for you to see very soon. The way they bring the message of that song into the 21st century is amazing.
If you want more Kevin singing, check out 'Imagine', or 'Say Something', or for a bit of an upbeat kind of song check out their original 'Sing'! Have tissues for the first two though!