In the first episode of the blind auditions of The Voice van Vlaanderen Season 10 (February 2026), a 22-year-old Lebanese-Armenian singer, Jean Sarkissyan, delivered a performance that immediately captured the attention of the entire judging panel. Taking the stage with quiet confidence, he chose to perform the iconic song “Desert Rose” by Sting and Cheb Mami. From the very first notes, it became clear that the audience was witnessing something special.
Jean’s performance was remarkable not only for his vocal ability but also for the originality of his interpretation. He presented a unique English-Arabic version of the song, blending cultures and musical traditions in a way that felt both powerful and authentic. His voice carried strong emotion and impressive control, turning the famous track into a deeply personal performance that reflected both his heritage and artistic identity.
The reaction from the judges was immediate and unanimous. One by one, all four coaches turned their chairs, signaling that they wanted Jean on their team. A four-chair turn is one of the most sought-after moments in the show, and it instantly placed him among the most memorable contestants of the season’s opening episode.
Jean’s story adds even more depth to his appearance on the stage. He moved to Belgium from Lebanon with his family after the devastating Beirut explosion. Before stepping into the spotlight of The Voice, he worked at a gas station in the Belgian city of Lokeren, far from the world of television and professional music competitions.
Season 10 of The Voice van Vlaanderen features a diverse panel of coaches, including Koen Wauters, Mathieu Terryn, Laura Tesoro, and newcomer Joost Klein. With such a strong debut, Jean Sarkissyan has already become one of the standout voices of the season, proving that sometimes the most powerful stories begin long before the first note is sung.
