Singing with a paralyzed stomach?! Emma Kok "Voilà" Analysis

[@bararobberbaron859]

While Emma is amazing, and she absolutely is, I wanna give a shoutout to Andre Rieu, the man that owns/pays/runs/directs that orchestra and giving Emma a spot to shine. His shows are sold out for like the next 6 years, so he's doing fine, but he gave her a stage to shine and the world benefits. She gets to sing what clearly her heart feels, he gets to add variety and help another youngster (he loves finding, developing and helping train talent) and we all get to witness that masterpiece. I understand why the vocals generally get most attention, but I just gotta give props to Andre.

[@JaapFilius]

Absolutely!! And there is more André Rieu is doing for Emma: next month she will perform in his Christmas concerts in Maastricht (Netherlands) and in 2024 he will take her with him and his orchestra on a World tour. He is a special human being....

[@bawillard2578]

Yes and YES!!!!!!

[@Lintary]

He is a good soul, also kept on all the people during the covid years. He just loves the art.

[@richeswebcraft]

Well said

[@annemarie9602]

I concur

[@awakepatriot2752]

I am a 40yr old metal head from Oklahoma. This song made me cry like a baby. The raw emotion in her voice just took over my emotions and I lost control. Music is so powerful.

[@Joffri77]

I cried 10 times and am sure i can do some more.

[@uscgkenny]

i feel this bro... 44yo man crying like a baby here... there is so much emotion from her that its almost unbearable, in a good way.

[@williamgray5858]

Same

[@breakshot7451]

i was told quite some times that i am distanced and cold or even arrogant. maybe there is truth to that. but when i am alone and listen to music i can lay off my armor and cry as long until my eyes hurt.

[@youtubebane7036]

She is an angel of course she makes you cry

[@cameltanker1286]

Every time I watch this mesmerizing performance, I'm brought to tears. To get over 12,000 Dutchmen to give a standing ovation is rare event in itself. But to give one for a song sung in French is an outstandingly phenomenal.

[@shalokshalom]

And the orchestra itself also gave her a standing ovation 💖

[@josvercaemer264]

the voice and technique, superbe and still as someone who knows french language, i instantly know this is song by a non french speaking lady

[@kjbunnyboiler]

One of the great things about this is the way Rieu follows her lead, he has his eyes on her for 99% of the performance. The singer is conducting the Conductor who is conducting the orchestra. Stunning👍👍

[@Eula7x]

just shows what a chad andre is

[@Nick-pq4ri]

Absolutely 💯 🇬🇧

[@tomholland3806]

Why he can do that is because he found the Orchestra in 1987. Some of those people who he leads he has worked with for over 10 to 36 years. It's an oiled machine.

[@GenghisBird]

And also she's the soloist.

[@bawillard2578]

Mr.A as I have watched in other performances conducts in this manner .. ( as it should be) such a great man.

[@jimmyprewitt31]

52 year old metal head from OH. I don't speak a word of French. The first time I heard the song I cried from about 30 seconds in until the song ended. I had no idea what the song said. I only knew I was hearing the voice of an angel. I looked up the translated lyrics and now, from word 1, the tears start. This young lady was a gift to us all. And this isn't even music I listen to. I have since looked up other performances. If you have not yet, I highly advise it. Bravo Emma!!!

[@MoominDoogie]

You have a few years on me, I'm "only" 45, from Yorkshire UK, and I had exactly the same reaction as you. I don't understand a single lyric but she has me in tears every time. Then I saw a version with translated subtitles and I blubbed like a baby 😭😭😭

[@jimmyprewitt31]

@MoominDoogie Music is so powerful. We are from totally different places. Yet this touched both of us. As I read the comments, I can see this young lady has done the same throughout the world. She is truly a gift. That is all I can say.

[@edotensei7917]

You should listen to the original song, from Barbara Pravi (the author and composer) at the Eurovision Song Contest 2021. It is different but a very stunning performance too.

[@daveannarino7892]

68 year old 'rocker' from just outside Columbus... her voice and the players had me in tears shortly after the music began.

[@wkrossman]

Same reaction here... while I do understand a little French (un peu), it is Emma's *passionate* vocal performance that started the waterworks for me. What an absolute GEM this young lady is! ❤❤❤

[@Steinstra-vj7wl]

Here comes a tiny young lady, relatively unknown, her very first time before a huge crowd of 22555 people. A giant world famous conductor beside you and a world class orchestra behind you. There she is, a small black figure, hardly visible from the crowd. She takes her bow, starts to sing and literally commands the stage ! She just makes you transfixed, jaws dropped, and after leaves you in wonder of what you've just witnessed. She smiles, gives a hug, says 'thank you' in the cutest way and disappears. But André knows when an Artist deserves a second round of applause.

[@Soundmstr]

Just some additional info to point out how incredibly brave this 15 years old Emma is: - Two foodpumps are connected - The pumps are with her 22/24 hours - She was bullied at school The audience (appr. 12.000 heads) is mainly Dutch, but also from Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and France. Part of the audience does speak French and knows exactly what Emma is singing. This makes it even more emotional. The lyrics in English: Listen to me Me, the wannabe singer Talk about me To your loves, to your friends Tell them about this girl with black eyes and her crazy dream Me, what I want is to write stories that reach you That’s all Here, here, here, here I am, Here I am even if stripped naked I am afraid, yes Here I am in the noise and in the silence Look at me, or at least what’s left Look at me, before I hate myself What to tell you, that another’s lips won’t tell you It’s not much but all that I have I drop it there, that’s it Here, here, here, here is who I am, Here I am even if stripped bare it’s over It’s my mouth, it’s my cry, here I am too bad Here, here, here, here I am my dream, my desire, like I’m dying, like I laugh at it Here I am in the noise and in the silence Don’t go, I’m begging you stay a long time, It may not save me, no But to do without you I don’t know how Love me as we love a friend who goes away forever I want us to love me because I don’t know how to like my outlines Here, there, here, here I am, Here I am even if exposed it is finished Here I am in the noise and in the fury too Look at me, finally, and my eyes and my hands All that I have is here, it’s my mouth, it’s my cry Here I am, here I am, here I am Here we are, here we are, here we are Here

[@StanEngland]

Thank you!

[@bakakaizoku]

Another fun fact about this song specifically, she doesn't speak a lick of french and had everything written down phonetically and went by that.

[@DvsDrFeelgood]

Such a Brave girl, So Beautiful inside and out, and the depth of the emotions she shows when she sings is incredible an heartbreaking! This song is so perfect for her story 100% 🥰🥰 Thank you for the Info and especially the lyric translation, You Rock! ❤❤ Much Love from New Zealand... ❤❤🥰🥰

[@BenjySparky]

Thanks for the English translation because I had no idea what she was saying but she can sing!❤

[@MonkeyJedi99]

How to win the "What did YOU do during school vacation" essay.

[@laid1978laid]

As an African-American from the States. I wouldn't want to ever hear this song in English.. It'll be a dishonor too do so. in my 46 years I have come to realize music is universal it doesn't matter what part of the globe you come from ,what language you speaking in, you understood every word.. Mind ,Body, and Soul There's only a few that have touch my Soul like that...Lucy the young pianist, Luther Vandross, now this young lady... I must say I am humbled and honored to be born in a Time to experience this ..And I Thank You ❤❤🖤🖤🥰🥰

[@terryross1754]

I'm a Brit who lived in NL for many years. The Dutch would say she has an 'old soul', a spiritual development beyond her years. And you hear and see that soul in her performance. I love it, and hope she will have everything from life that she wishes.

[@aum0aumgood]

It could be direct conscience sent from the heavens empowered by "God" something akin to Jeanne d'Arc ?

[@VivBeyer1111]

@@aum0aumgood Thats what I feel too.....very very DIVINE is her voice, so so pure and angelic ! I am in AWE !

[@AI-qd4vb]

@@aum0aumgood Or it could just be mere coincidence and her working on her voice...

[@edruidviking]

She owns the orchestra. At 15 years old. Every change is introduced by her without any musical support. The music follows. Astonishing

[@hannobrandwijk9809]

I mean Andre is kind of conducting them though :P. I'd say both

[@edruidviking]

@@hannobrandwijk9809 André Rieu commands it, a subtle difference. He sets it all up for others to excel, which she does with flying colours. Absolute musical genius, the two of them. Her delivery is easily matched by his Mastership and vice versa ❤️

[@markthirkell7056]

Andre has the skill to follow and support the soloist (who is amazing). The orchestra is so good that they can follow Andre.

[@ReneLaan]

One of the best reactions I have seen. BTW; Andre mentioned in an interview that the rehersals with the orchestra were very hard. Most musicians were very emotional every time

[@dmor3359]

I'd like to see that interview with Andre. I had not thought about how the musicians would be affected by her voice... makes perfect sense that they would be.

[@bbbbbbbb1942]

id like to see it to. have you found it? @@dmor3359

[@bertbouwhuis]

In another interview when asked what he thought about Emma's performance André simply said: "She commanded the stage!".

[@VivBeyer1111]

Really? Wow ! Would love to see footage of that.

[@samosenica4067]

​@@bertbouwhuis absolutly and this one was the first of many of them same year❤

[@ronthomas3616]

I stumbled upon Emma Kok's performance last night and was moved to tears. I do not understand any French. But her story and singing ability brought me to my knees. This ranks as one of the great moments in music in my life (I'm 71).

[@Peeveegee121]

Same happened to me. And the same goes for me, my musical life. (I am from '71, haha.)

[@terrythomas790]

Im right behind you! Simply amazing , Unbelievable voice! And only 15!! Wow!!

[@johnwilliams575]

Agree 100% Discovered this completely by accident. Moved to tears by this amazing performance. No idea what the words meant, but that really didn't matter (have since read the English translation - wow, how powerful)

[@schoolinJOO]

Écoutez moi Moi la chanteuse à demi Parlez de moi À vos amours, à vos amis Parler leur de cette fille aux yeux noirs et de son rêve fou” listen to me. me (female) singing a little. talk of me. our love. our friends. talk to their little girl with black eyes and a mad dream ? lol i took 5 semesters of french. these are very simple words. i probably got the translation off. had to stop learning once covid hit.

[@VivBeyer1111]

Absolutely...she is heaven-sent.

[@Alicatt1]

My younger brother installed a satellite system for my mother, she found André Rieu and then introduced his music to me, alas she never got the chance to go to a live concert of his, she passed away in 2003. Move forward to 2020 and a friend said he could get tickets to the concert in the Vrijthof in Maastricht so him, his girlfriend and my wife and myself went to see and hear André live. I can say I was blown away by the performance, I really had not expected how good the sound was live, but all I could think of was how much my mother would have loved to be there. Oh, my friend and his girlfriend got engaged at the concert :) Now in 2023, we got tickets to go again, and this tiny little slip of a girl just captured all our hearts with her voice, she got a well deserved standing ovation from all of us, such a big voice from a small frame.

[@allenkramer2143]

Like you, my mom instillled the love of classics in me. My mom passed in 2004. Miss her soo much, think about her everyday. I didn't say it often enough when she was alive. THANKS mom.😪

[@Alicatt1]

@@allenkramer2143 Yes mothers are missed. I have my tickets for July's concert in the Vrijthof, I now wonder whom the accompanying guest artist will be this year.

[@Sad-Rocker]

My wife passed 2016 i had too much to drink and had a motorcycle accident that RIPPED my index finger off the surgeon was able to reattach it but it doesn't bend but about halfway that it use too. By the way I was a rock guitarists since the late 70s. I tried to play it one time and gave up and my guitar has been hanging on the rack for 6 years. Now watching Emma and her condition how she overcome such a horrible Disease to sing like a angel. I fill like a 6ft5 260lb crybaby. I'm getting new strings in the morning and polish the stratocaster and try again. Playing the since I was 12 years old was the only thing that fulfilled my soul. Well and beautiful flowers and Animals in need 😊

[@VivBeyer1111]

YOU are a beautiful soul ! 🙃😉

[@williamgray5858]

Forgive yourself, you're loved!

[@CPduo]

I hope you took up the guitare again.

[@Sad-Rocker]

​@@CPduo no I'm in the hospital right now my home exploded from a gas leak through me about 20 feet. I have 3rd degree burns on both hands my home burned completely down lost everything including 13 vintage guitars and and all my pictures now I'm in the hospital with congestive heart failure.

[@captainchaos3667]

​@@Sad-Rocker That is incredible bad luck. I hope you overcome even this enormous setback.

[@gwieser]

I can't remember how many times I have watched the video of her, it must be far beyond 100 times. This masterpiece touches me with its unbelievable pain AND joy of life at the very same time, it is a constant change between emotional highs and lows, and it is so unbelievable that a 15 year old girl can delivery these waves of emotions so spectacularly!

[@teachersusan3730]

Same here … it touches me on a very deep level ❤

[@hanslinden5289]

Yup same here...

[@Bellathebear777]

Ditto ❤

[@disturbed4733]

I really enjoyed it and was impressed. Then I found an English copy of the Lyrics, printed it out, and watched it again. By the end of the song, I was crying like a baby. The message was so powerful.

[@FernCurtis]

Not that unbelievable when you have read the translation of the words. Emma herself has as actually lived the words to some extent and thus was drawing on personal experience and feelings, thus bringing the song alive, to us that have listened. We are connecting to her feelings as she expresses them in song, even when we don’t understand the words, perhaps initially. That is what makes music the international language because even if we don’t understand the words being sung, we as the human race can and do understand the feelings behind the music. That I believe is the reason we all react as we do to Emma singing this. I have tried to listen to other individuals who have sung it…and while it may be nice listening to it, it does nothing to stir me. I don’t get the goosebumps and that feeling deep inside, with them, whereas with Emma, it never fails, regardless of how many times I listen to it.

[@rvng1021]

I'm a US Marine of 25 years. I don't speak French. Hearing this for the first time uninterrupted I cried. Even when she sung dee dee dee , I felt something in my soul that cried to me to care.

[@HorstKasallek]

I was at Vriithof the first night they played there this year and I can say Emma simply blew us all away. There was a magical aura during her performance. And I'm just grateful that I had the opportunity to hear this masterpiece live.

[@Landradler]

Youre a lucky guy.

[@RichardEberhart_Rialta]

@@HorstKasallek I've often thought about how unexpectedly magical that must have been to hear her first performance live. The problem is, I would have been blind sided and crying like a little girl in public and im much to tough for that 🤪

[@AllaMenethil]

When I found this song on Facebook a while ago it caught my son's attention. He is 7 years old, autistic and semi non verbal. Since he heard this song it became his favorite. He absolutely loves it. French is not our native language so he doesn't understand a word, but... everytime he asks for this song and especially when he sees the video I see he have lots of emotions. He smiles, he has tears in his eyes. I think that Emma is doing a fantastic job with this song, it's impossible not to feel her emotions no matter the age, language, music taste and so on. I hope her dreams come through, I wish her the best! She touched our souls, she shared her emotions with us, she inspired us and for that we should all be forever greatful. Thank you, Emma! Thank you, Andre!

[@ChrisEchoes]

Her family is visible at 22:43 in your video. The man in the blue blazer in the middle of the shot is her dad, left and right of him are her sister and brother. Her mom was on the side of the stage watching her daughter and helping her backstage. She had to be plugged into her feeding machine straight after this performance.

[@JM-ig4ed]

Thanks for that.

[@jazluvr99]

I think I speak for many when I say if we didn't know this tragic side of her life's experience, to watch her on that stage; how poised, how beautiful, how healthy she seems to be... I, for one, would never believe it. As horrible as they are, I thank you for sharing these details. It brings that much more poignancy to her story and this unbelievable performance.

[@allenkramer2143]

I would add. In the intro it's explained that her brother is an accomplished Violinist.

[@urhartfabeler]

Thanks for pointing them out

[@jazluvr99]

There are other videos on KZbin of her and her family. Besides her brother Enzo (the violinist) she has an older sister Sophie, who is also a good singer.

[@steveg4334]

From the moment Emma gracefully bows to the audience, you know your seeing someone special.

[@AndrewBlacker-t1d]

"you're" means, "you are." Not, "your." Get educated.

[@realmikegarner]

The original is by Barbara Pravi and was the French entry for the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest. It came second but should have won. So many echos of Edith Piaf.

[@randar1969]

No disrespect at all for Barbara Pravi the writer and performer of this song at Eurovision. What i perticulairy like about this version is slower pace and added vibratio as well. The orchestra lifts this song something Barbara couldn't have done if she wanted! As Eurovision certainly doesn't allow an orchestra to support the performer. Which in my humble opinion makes this song so much better. Barbara also had a time limit which didn't allowed her to slow the tempo. Emma did a cover without orchestra and with the speed of the original. Ofcource it sounded nice but no way near this performance just saying.

[@marijnl]

I 100% agree. The song was perfectly performed by Barbara. She should have won indeed. Emma also made it her song, which is extraordinary, especially for such a young girl. Both deserve as much praise as possible for their performances.

[@ternilapilli]

Instantly recognised this as a Eurovision song (and indeed stopped to go and listen to that again first) but had not heard of this amazing version before. This arrangement takes full advantage of casting off the Eurovision rules to slow it down and build it up much bigger without rushing into it. It was already emotional but went to an entire other level here.

[@Peeveegee121]

True. Actually this sounds like a Eurovision song a bit. Mixed with opera. An orchestra actually was standard in the Eurovision performances back in the day. Or should I say 'back in the beautiful days'?

[@jeanlouischaumel1293]

@@randar1969 Sorry to answer to you from Quebec in French. It's fastest for me. Vous avez tout à fait raison. Bien sûr Emma est un phénomène, mais le support de l'orchestre de Rieu est excellent et magnifie considérablement la chanson. En outre, Emma a été, ce jour là, au sommet de sa forme: voix, expression, gestuelle. Bref c'est un tandem gagnant. Et le chef d'orchestre Rieu, aussi homme d'affaires, l'a bien compris !

[@andrewainsworth1042]

I was privileged to see her live with Andre Rieu last week, wasn’t a dry eye to be found. Amazing talent.

[@metalmark1214]

A brave girl, with a wonderful voice. At its core, Voilà is a song about embracing one’s authentic self and finding the courage to be unapologetically genuine.

[@MonkeyJedi99]

Completely ignoring her medical situation, her voice and performance is spectacular!

[@Laidback-x2l]

The first time I heard Emma sing the song I realize for the first time in my life with the right singer you do not have to understand the language because she tells the story with her passion and her gestures and her presence and that Talent is God given

[@dianecolumbus477]

Absolutely 💯

[@TheHitman-]

One of the most beautiful voice renditions of all time.

[@Elizabeth-vz9ei]

I have had gastroparesis before, to sing was too painful and nauseating for me. I am glad she is able to sing, or she masks it well. And I am glad she is spreading awareness for gastroparesis which can happen to anyone at anytime- and we need more research for it. :)

[@camrob408]

I have it as well. My presentation is a bit different than what the classical presentation but the gastric emptying study confirmed it. I don't have so much of the pain but other symptoms. It is so difficult to live with. I hope the abdominal strength she has developed with her singing has only helped her. ❤

[@angc214]

I don't speak French and couldn't understand a word she said. I still got chills listening to her. Her voice is so angelic and powerful at the same time.

[@locatellidiana4622]

Ecoutez moi Moi la chanteuse à demi Parlez de moi À vos amours, à vos amis Parlez leur de cette fille aux yeux noirs et de son rêve fou Moi c'que j'veux c'est écrire des histoires qui arrivent jusqu'à vous C'est tout Voilà, voilà, voilà, voilà qui je suis Me voilà même si mise à nue j'ai peur, oui Me voilà dans le bruit et dans le silence Regardez moi, ou du moins ce qu'il en reste Regardez moi, avant que je me déteste Quoi vous dire, que les lèvres d'une autre ne vous diront pas C'est peu de chose mais moi tout ce que j'ai je le dépose là, voilà Voilà, voilà, voilà, voilà qui je suis Me voilà même si mise à nue c'est fini C'est ma gueule c'est mon cri, me voilà tant pis Voilà, voilà, voilà, voilà juste ici Moi mon rêve mon envie, comme j'en crève comme j'en ris Me voilà dans le bruit et dans le silence Ne partez pas, je vous supplie restez longtemps Ça m'sauvera peut-être pas, non Mais faire sans vous j'sais pas comment Aimez moi comme on aime un ami qui s'en va pour toujours J'veux qu'on m'aime parce que moi je sais pas bien aimer mes contours Voilà, voilà, voilà, voilà qui je suis Me voilà même si mise à nue c'est fini Me voilà dans le bruit et dans la fureur aussi Regardez moi enfin et mes yeux et mes doigts Tout c'que j'ai est ici, c'est ma gueule c'est mon cri Me voilà, me voilà, me voilà Voilà, voilà, voilà, voilà Voilà, voilà, voilà qui je suis Me voilà même si mise à nue c'est fini C'est ma geule, c'est mon cri, me voilà tant pis Voilà French lyrics your language is on the webtranslate

[@Chaos4Eva1]

As a 54 year old metal head form Puerto Rico that awesome girl put tears in my eyes. Just wonderful ❤️

[@dougel4709]

I like that the conductor barely ever takes his eyes off of her. She not only starts the orchestra, but I think she indirectly conducted the whole thing!! Amazing job Emma! And thank you E for the reactanalysis!

[@antbrk986]

She certainly also ended the orchestra with that arm swoop!

[@og3nefan21]

Yes Emma is the boss

[@DutchLabrat]

Note that this orchestra is used to play conducted by André Rieu as a stehgeige, ie with him playing while facing the audience. Following a soloist is what they do. Also ... there are specialised in Strauss and this is in 6/8 :)

[@Redgrampa]

49 yr old metal head here. I saw this a while ago, and couldn’t stop crying. Here I am now watching your reaction to Emma and I’m in tears again. Such a beautiful voice and gift to the world.

[@hansolo2121]

What is also amazing is that Emma does not speak French. She learned this song phonetically by listening to the original and with help of a French teacher. Of course she does understand the meaning of every word she is singing. I have read from French comments that she did a pretty good job at pronouncing French language. And she has a lovely Dutch accent :)

[@debnbhuy]

Dank je wel !!

[@BehindedBleuEyes]

C'est pas faux!

[@renemokum]

This was Emma's very first performance (out of 12) with Andre Rieu and his orchestra in Maastricht, just last summer. First time in front of a large audience (12.500 people) with an orchestra of about 70 musicians. Totally impressive! I normally don't listen to this kind of music, but this was so different. It was perfection, a slice of heaven. Still getting goose bumps and chills after repeated listenings.

[@VivBeyer1111]

So true!

[@udohalfkann7660]

I've probably heard Emma's Voila 100 times now and it touches my heart and soul every time and I feel every word. She gives everything and touches everyone. It shows that music is the language of the soul. God bless Emma🙏

[@cfjooijevaar1]

Make it: God cure Emma!

[@hari6om]

Silence is the language of the soul; Music can come very close to silence.... 😌🥰

[@GypsyChiqueOriginal]

I don't typically cry when music is so beautiful that others do. I don't even speak French, but I could feel what she was saying. I cried. In fact, I've watched it multiple times, and I seem to have ocular leakage every time I hear it. And knowing her song lyrics (once I found them) and her story make it all the more touching. This is absolutely unbelievable, and I plan to follow her for years to come.

[@DUKE_of_RAMBLE]

Same for me... Although, I listen to all forms of metal and electronic music, so "beautiful music" isn't often encountered there, but I have eclectic tastes and even say Imogen Heap's great works haven't moved me in the way Emma singing Voila has; still *_does!_* 😪🤧 And again, same as you: all without knowing _a word she's saying._ 🤯 I've watched the original video by Barbara (the song creator) and even her's doesn't... Emma just has a profoundly gorgeous and powerful voice, that cuts _sooo deep_ into me!! I think it's her *amazing* vibrato?? 🤷‍♂️ Doesn't matter what music genre you're primarily into, I firmly believe you'll come out a better person after watching her rendition of this song! Any that don't? I question if they're human. 😏 Sorry... I see I've managed to live up to my name *once* again! 😅😊🤐

[@blackjackdoubledown]

I have watched and listened to this performance over and over and over. Emma and the orchestra are truly amazing. I normally dont listen to this type of music but I am just floored by her strength and emotion as she sings. I wish her the best in her health and life. The world needs to hear more of her singing.

[@feat132]

I have seen over 100 reaction videos of Emma singing this song, yours is unique. I find the hardest part in the reactions, is finding words that are effective. Most are at a loss, most need to pause at the end and regroup. Your instinctive reaction to her ability to emote, is one of the keys to explaining this phenomenal performance. She communicates with words, intonation, body language, facial expressions and acting skills. Nothing I can say explains what I feel, words fail. Emma has IT!1 Andre, the orchestra, the chorus, the setting and the audience, all were spectacular! But Emma was otherworldly!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@dmor3359]

Yes!

[@Peeveegee121]

True, so true.

[@VivBeyer1111]

Yes! Otherworldly!

[@AmplifyChris]

I don’t know anything about Andre Rieu or what kind of person he is. But he looks at her like a proud father… it’s nice…

[@AndrewBlacker-t1d]

Andre features and promotes young people frequently. He brought us Amira when she was 8 or 10.

[@bobbycollins6783]

Been waiting for you to do this. And hearing the analysis of her voice. Makes it even more amazing. And just a word about Andre Rieu conducting. Brilliant. He never took his eyes off her for a moment. And conducted the orchestra to move with her. A real master. He's also brilliant violinist. No matter how many times I watch this. And that's a lot. It never fails to move me to tears. The whole performance from everyone is perfect.

[@terrythomas790]

I also enjoyed the singing, and watching the voice coaches reactions at the same time! She was totally blown away! Who wouldn't be!

[@kevinstorm4192]

do you see the amount of people with tears in their eyes, she is heaven sent this girl. i am speechless

[@AfonbachDesigns]

I cried so much when i first heard this version of Voilà , I had to keep playing it over and over. We are so lucky we get to hear these amazing concerts and performances of so many great artists past and present.

[@remypriou5608]

C'est absolument incroyable ! Je ne m'explique pas pourquoi je suis aussi bouleversé et pourquoi je ne peux retenir mes larmes a chaque fois que je regarde cette vidéo. Un ange qui transmet ce qu'il y a de plus beau en chaque être humain. Le ciel envoie parfois ses messagers pour faire du bien à l'âme. Emma, tu es l'une de ceux-ci. Mille merci Emma.

[@regenschirm37]

Elle a un coeur pur, qui tend vers l’idéal de l’humanité

[@Esmeagolly]

And the world wept out of sheer pride and admiration of this brave little girl.

[@MarnitzVermeulen]

Elizabeth, I have to thank you for this 'Analysis' of the performance which launched Emma Kok to stardom. I have watched the original video more than any other on KZbin and due to the algorithms possibly every review of the performance as well. More than 20 years ago, I took voice coaching lessons for 2 years and sang solo's in school musicals as well as a youth choir and there are few things in life which can feed ones soul as music does. It is obvious Music is your soul-food too. Your passion for music, how you technically describe and enjoy doing it is palpable. It makes me want to start singing again. Thank you! I'm happy to subscribe to your channel and look forward to sharing more musical magic through you.

[@VivBeyer1111]

You most definately should start singing again....... 😉

[@Richardtv1968]

Finally your reaction to Emma……. This girl is sensational, not only because of her singing, but because of her stage presence, the intensity, her facial expressions……. She is an absolute stunning performer!

[@davesunhammer4218]

Just think of this: I am 58 and don't speak French, and a young Dutch girl who doesn't speak French sings in French so well that every time I listen to her she gets at least one tear from me, How outstanding that is, how incredible. How ultimately beautiful.

[@davesunhammer4218]

Your discussion on delivering someone else's message... it's why I tend to not listen to child singers. Beautiful voices but no life experience to connect to. What good a song about loss sung by someone who has no understanding of loss? Substitute any word for "loss". Most 15 year olds know little of true hopes and dreams in the face of death. Her disease will eventually kill her, and could have years ago. But sing she will until then, and we will honor her request... "Love me as we love a friend who goes away forever"

[@MeriaDuck]

She very likely speaks quite a bit of French. And not just the French we learn in school here in the Netherlands. She knows what she sings, she believes and feels what she is singing and delivers the story across language barriers.

[@flycatchful]

I cry every time I hear her sing this song.

[@AB-C1]

Elizabeth, You have to react to Emma Kok live version of "Hallelujah!" From a dutch TV performance. Shes wearing a very simiar dress and the Performance is Sublime! 👌🙏🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧

[@musicman5532]

The genius of Andre Rieu and this young lady would count for nothing if the music didn't convey true emotion and lift the human spirit. When you look at the faces in the audience they are hanging on every breath and sound. Its a magical and joyous place for the audience to be in.... This performance has certainly reached into the very heart of everyone in the audience and the world is a better place for it... Voila !!

[@DT-yl6yb]

I really enjoyed listening to your "take" on Emma's Voila. I have probably listened to her sing this over 200 times and then many other times listening to peoples reactions to her singing. She is an angel. I am 69 and she brings me to tears each and every time. I thank God that I have had the privilege to hear her singing. Thank you for expressing her talents so well.

[@bgbuilds2712]

I've watched maybe close to 100 different YT reactions to this song. But this is the one I've wanted all along. Thank you for finally getting to this!

[@Greyhound53200]

I fully concur.

[@BrianLarin]

Emma owns this song. don't pity her health, appreciate her talent. She has no ego she thanks Andre after they embrace.

[@MeriaDuck]

Agree, her condition is indeed what it is. Some kids are unfortunately born with it and fortunately on the twenty first century we have ways to deal with that. Let's enjoy the show ❤

[@garylagstrom3864]

Unbelievable voice and at age 15! She will have an amazing career ahead of her! Thanks Elizabeth for bringing her to our world! I’ve never heard of her before! Hats 🎩 off Emma! ❤️

[@kristenh5884]

WOW!!! I have listened to this performance dozens of times, read the lyrics and watched 6 other "voice critics" discuss this. None did it justice. . Your review was incredible. You gave me so much musical understanding. It made me understand in so many ways why I felt such a deep emotional - perhaps epigenetic reaction. Your insight has changed the way I listen to music and feel about music. THANK YOU!

[@veritas.liberabit]

Elizabeth, your analysis of Emma Kok's 'Voilà' is incredibly insightful. Your ability to articulate the technical brilliance and emotional depth of her performance adds a new layer of appreciation. Watching Emma was a transformative experience for me, much like a spiritual awakening. Her presence was ethereal and her voice seemed to transcend the ordinary, creating a profound connection with the audience. Your commentary captures this beautifully. Thank you for sharing your expert perspective!

[@dmor3359]

Yes!

[@mariadamen7886]

She talks too much.

[@JaapFilius]

@@mariadamen7886 That's what reaction video's are all about: explanation from what's going on, and here you have one of the very best reactors there is: Elisabeth is alway's talking about details and small details. When you do not like the explanations there always is the orginal video.

[@ericsainte290]

Yes, this is the 'once in a lifetime' kind of moment. It's so rare that it must be savored like the best of wines. Only one piece of music has achieved such an effect on me before, and that was Samuel Barber's adagio for strings. No matter how many times I've heard it before, it still reduces me to tears. And here is a small girl of 15 with a hard and dramatic story that not only tops it up, but literally blew me away with this incredible performance. And the analysis is on point. She has a real god given gift to share emotions with the audience through her singing. For me, she's up par with the like of Lara Fabian, Edith Piaf and Jacques Brel...

[@hari6om]

Yes, truth liberates... ❤❤❤

[@debbyhrdlicka7045]

I absolutely love this young lady. I choke up every time I hear her sing. I shared this video with my 27 year old daughter and she called me and said, wow Mom! This song is so beautiful and appreciated the emotion’s of the audience. I hope to God Emma will keep singing and share her videos.

[@Nickery1]

One of the many ... but BEST ... reactions on this amazing Dutch girll Emma Kok ..thnx for that ... greets from the Netherlands

[@AFNacapella]

you can say about André Rieu's playing and arrangements and showmanship what you want, but his work with young talents (with or without "sad story") seems sincere and deserves respect. ...and his team makes the Frijdhof look gorgeous...

[@StephaniePina-r1l]

Her voice is absolutely mesmerizing

[@BrutusMaximusAurelius]

Now that’s a captivated audience if I’ve ever seen one. She’s absolutely amazing. People often say that hard work beats talent, and I feel this is what happens when hard work MEETS talent.

[@MrDoubled0000]

It's amazing just how much emotion can be conveyed through a voice that transcends language and space and touches ones heart. ❤️

[@NormTaylor-pn6xu]

I would like for you to notice, at the end of her performance when she throughs her arm around she has a smile that no one can mistake, as she knows that she NAILED IT!!! she is 16 now going on 40, i think that because of her struggle and determination she became an adult when she turned 10, she is elegant, graceful, sophisticated, and above all like you adorable!!! and we all know how wonderful that is...by the way that gentleman that was yelling at the end was not her father, but like the other 12500 people that were there he was overcome with her performance. she will be loved by everyone regardless of her condition, I just hope that they can find a cure ,,,

[@RickSjoerds]

Finally you got to see this one, was waiting for your analysis on this. Big big big shoutout to André Rieu Here to give the world a view on many talents on this globe and this time it was this talented creature that goes by the name Emma Kok. I am moved every time I hear this. And I have hundreds of times already. I didn’t know what to give my parents for their 50th wedding anniversary, and then I saw this. That moment I knew I would get them to see Emma in Maastricht in December this year. So they will see her. And the always magical show that André Rieu puts together. Thank you for this video, was waiting a long time 😃

[@Gitaro64]

This is the song that touched me most for the last 10 years I think. The way Emma performs the song is amazing.

[@patrickjennings460]

Emma Kok and this video is the 8th Wonder of the World.

[@viktorphilipsson596]

Sitting in my office now crying while watching this. I don't care if my colleagues will see me. I will just show them this incredibly beautiful song and they will understand!

[@tihomirrasperic]

in the simplest terms, she sang with "soul and body" (as they say in Croatia) and she entered the zone where reality and abstraction meet you can see that she has everything completely under control, she doesn't pay any attention to Andre who conducts and accompanies her with the orchestra, and at the end you see that both the orchestra and Andre himself are in a trance, as if they are under a spell, how powerful is her performance 👋👋👋👋👋 the only moment when she fell out of the role, at the end when she hugs Andre and says "thank you" only then do we see that she is still a little girl

[@hansolo2121]

Andre said 'fantastisch' and she replied 'dankjewel'.

[@victorlazslo2757]

👌 exactly ..Thát moment moved me the most.

[@cfjooijevaar1]

I would not say that she fell out of her role, contrarely, that's her! Voila!

[@exeter1588]

Did you notice the impish little smile she give just at the end as she swings her arm down across her chest? She knew she had nailed it.

[@stevecgarry]

@@exeter1588 That impish smile was only the start of it, in an interview in the last few days, at Amsterdam kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ3NkJSegpagatE Emma commented that the first evening after they'd finished the Vrijthof performance was when he asked her to be a part of the world tour, and even now, her emotion when talking about it said it all, excited didn't come even close, and it will be so good for her, he will push her to heights that even she didn't think were possible, and its very clear that she has both the skill and the desire to do exactly that. What would also be so good would be if Emma, Sophie and Enzo were given the opportunity to perform together, that would be so good to see and hear.

[@lordleonusa]

I cried all the way through this performance, in fact, I just can't listen to it, without sobbing like a baby, this song has more emotion infused into it, than any other song that I have ever heard, she is up there with Edith Piaf! What we are witnessing here is the voice of an Angel.

[@klassenw]

Oh my that was beautiful! As a definite metal head, this was a refreshing diversion! It was moving to see how moved the audience was, and I actually caught myself exclaiming out loud at the end when the crowd…and that one gentleman…erupted at the end of the song. I’m sure my family must have wondered what I was watching with my headphones on! 😂 I loved to see how Andre Rieu gave her so much attention and respect and care too. 😊 Wonderful. Thank you! 🙏

[@bgbuilds2712]

Andre was an absolute rockstar in this too. I will always love witnessing masters of any craft performing at their peak. This whole thing was a standard bearer for world class entertainment. Those of us with headphones on only got a piece of this performance. Imagine being there in person and feeling the vibration from the strings and choirs resonating in your chest. You can see why there was hardly a dry eye in the place!

[@marinusch]

That gentleman is her proud father!

[@Gunner-45]

Her Father is the man with glasses and her sister to his right

[@butchdecker9104]

She is the tiniest person on that stage, so much so that the visual of the people behind her makes the musicians seem overlarge, yet from the very first moment she rises from her chair she is the absolute queen of that stage. I hope, so very much, that she is able to remain strong depite her condition and grace the world with her voice and personality for years to come.

[@whosoever1639]

I watched this performance around 50 times and I continue to get goosebumps every time, never fails. 💪😁🙏

[@jeffreydeeds9225]

Emma Kok reminds me a lot of Lara Fabian, especially Lara's rendition of Je Suis Malade. Incredibly gorgeous, determined,yet vulnerable. Magnificent!

[@JustTanya.]

Wow. I don't know what she singing, I don't speak French, but I feels like a whispered cry at first. Like she wants to be seen, be noticed. Then towards the climax of the song it seems like she's just crying it out loud to be seen. It's really powerful and emotional. Her voice is stunning. I don't know if it's because she's singing in French or what but it is reminding me of Celine Dion. So emotive in the story she's telling. Her technique is incredible but what she's emoting, yeah, you don't really need to understand the words because the emotions speak for themselves. Just beautiful and I hope her dreams come true.😎👍

[@marekchromik9704]

You have done such a beautiful job with taking us through this song, piece by piece and pointing out the beauty and the details and the depth of the emotion that is felt and carried throughout this song. Really appreciate your validation and obvious passion. 🙏🏼

[@kingcookoo]

I have a thousand dollar headset, world renown as its best since I am an audiophile. Emma is surpassing my headset, I have NEVER in 10 years heard a voice that leaves my headset in the dust. I've listened to all of the greats, but she cuts straight through, my headphones had no chance. Absolutely, Bravo. I don't think you can experience her over audio, she is so uniquely talented that she may be the only artist today that surpasses modern tech

[@davevallee7945]

I don't smoke, never smoked, but this song makes me feel like I understand the sacrifice of years to have something to follow the experience of this voice, this talent, this young woman, this child, to inhale the fire, to disintegrate to ashes, and to burn my lungs just as she has burned my heart. Voila.

[@michaeldean846]

I first discovered Emma in 2021 through following The Voice Kids Holland KZbin page. A contest which she won. But because of her performance of Voila going viral. She has gained way more followers than she ever would have from a Dutch televised singing competition. And deservedly so. Because Emma’s voice is truly a gift that should be shared with the world.

[@snakeperson2482]

Emma's performance is not only that, it's an emotional and spiritual experience. You don't have to speak French to feel what she's expressing. Her angelic voice, vocal range and physical interpretation of the song manage to touch all those who see and hear her. The entire world should see this - be reminded of their humanity!

[@boz352]

Yours was, by far, the best reaction I have listened to, responding to this beautiful young lady and this amazing performance. She fills my heart with joy too. She has a magical talent and I love it. As a passing note, her only time off those feeding tubes is when she's performing. She is an amazing young lady who deserves all the praise she receives, an angel.

[@dmor3359]

I agree, the most professional review I have seen of Emma's singing, and she touched all the nuances in her performance that I felt too... and eloquently spoke about all of them. Thank you for your beautiful review.

[@gemini3945]

You must see the Bangkok vocal coach

[@Wildcon1225]

The way she told the story and sang with all her heart out is actually amazing!! And I love the way how you described and how the audiences would experienced!

[@dicebar_]

Getting such a honest and positive reaction from you, a peer - a professional and accomplished peer - is one of the highest compliments I think Emma could receive. Thank you for this, the performance was beautiful.

[@jregns]

I just learned about Emma and I don't speak any French, but this is absolutely world class! Being so young, with such control of her voice, its beautiful timbre, vibrato and her expression is absolutely fantastic. Without me even knowing what the song is about, she's telling the story with such innocence, determination and delicate expression that it hits right in the heart. And then learning about her condition makes it even more impressive. Hats off for this young, beautiful woman. 🤩

[@PomegranateLost]

This song was originally the Eurovision entry for France in 2021. I'd recommend watching Barbara Pravi's Eurovision performance of it as well.

[@martijnappeldoorn8686]

That was by far the best song of the eurovision that year, and of course it didn’t win, europe thought Maneskin was better 🫣

[@CocoAzoitei]

Thank you for being one of the few reaction videos who mentions intonation (I think you in America more commonly call it pitch) - I’m a pro orchestral violinist in London and work with many amazing singers across all genres and it’s so easy for them to go sharp especially on an outdoor stage where it can be hard to hear the orchestra but Emma’s intonation is exceptional. She nails it! ❤

[@AmariLynn8]

❤So happy for her and her family❤ Can you imagine what her parents must have been feeling the entire performance!!! Wow just WOW! No other piece of art has ever moved me like this performance has. Bravo!

[@a81l1fy]

A further testament to how powerful and the emotion she evokes with her voice is that these shows sell out way way in advance and are not cheap. So the audience that would attend these concerts would be very much aficionados of this specific type of music for sure. Now take that person and watch them break down and just cry like the few that have been shown on camera is incredible to think about. This is beautiful and I tear up every. single. time. I listen to it and I am very glad it is on Tidal and Spotify to listen to everywhere anytime. Very very good video as usual! Thank you!

[@sandramurmans659]

Straight from the heart performance. Gives me goosebumps over and over again..

[@MarkLindsay-b6s]

Thank you Elizabeth for sharing this, I've been asking for a while for you to hear this angelic voice....I don't understand a word she's singing but you don't need to the music and the voice draw you in and you just feel it....a brave and talented young lady x

[@joanneshaw3071]

Think I’m onto the 10th time hearing her sing this song. Each time I notice more about how utterly amazing talented this girl is. Goosebumps every time. Very interesting what you are saying. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it as in its more than her voice. There’s so much more to this girl. A 15 year old girl that has men in the audience crying! She just leaves me speechless

[@BakaisNofal]

Thank you for reacting to this one. I have watched this song about 30+ times, and in every time I enjoy listing to her voice. I suggested this to you about a month ago, thank you again for reacting to this. I always like to watch your reactions because your bring them up in a professional way and I love the details you put.

[@jungleworld11]

Emma is a gift to the music world !! She also has the sweetest eyes I ever saw !!

[@Emilie-one]

I cried….like every single time I have heard this. She is amazing.

[@CJCon885]

I saw the whole vid with the intro. It was amazing. And her older brother being a violinist is cool. Her vocals and expressions are awesome!! And was great that she got a standing ovation from the crowd and the orchestra. Her condition and singing hits the heart strings hard.

[@josephstude5638]

I've watched this a dozen times now and I think the thing I'm most slain by is the emotional intelligence and determination necessary to enact this kind of performance... at 15 years old. This is the perfect example of taking lemons and making lemonade. Bravo.

[@exeter1588]

Emma is not only brave, but she is a very intelligent girl.

[@emilyx8377]

What I love most about Emma Kok isn't her voice, it's her uncanny ability to express the emotions of a song with her facial expressions and her hand gestures. The first time I saw her on KZbin, I had the sound on "mute," so I couldn't hear the song at all, but oh my goodness, just looking at her face and her hand gestures in complete silence convinced me she was a majestic talent on stage. Then when I heard her for the first time, it was like the icing on the cake. I'm thrilled for her newfound fame and success, and I wish her great things in the future.

[@MayaMaia311]

Original is cute but this one brings me chills everytime i hear it (i have heard it over and over again). There is so much about this performance to enjoy and discover over and over. The singer, the Orchestra, the venue, camera, colours. Perfection.

[@gphx]

Some men can go to war, face death, never blink, and a talented girl like this can wrap them around her finger and make them cry because she reminds them what it's like to be alive.

[@reneasschert7205]

Tears run down my face, this is absolute beautyful. What a amazing voice. Thank you for sharing this

[@fozzylozzy1131]

This girl is absolutely amazing, I first heard this song when I watched the video of her on Andre Rieus channel, I don't speak or understand french and I've tried listening to this song from other singer and all of them just sound less emotionally attached and charged by this song, Emma has taken this song and pretty much made it hers by how her beautiful voice has melded this song to her thoughts and feelings. Emma has one of the brightest futures in the world of singing of anyone I've listened to in the last few years.

[@joemikeska2657]

I’ve been waiting for your reaction and you did not disappoint. I tear up almost every time I hear Emma sing this song, looked like you were fighting back a few as well. Thank you!

[@robinakins4861]

I love your critiques and how you dissect her singing. I saw how you reacted to Emma and you are experiencing connecting to Emma’s soul. Emma is at a high consciousness level, higher than her peers and most adults, including myself. This allows her to project a high level of energy in her voice which impacts positively to the listener’s soul. For many, it is a spiritual experience that inspires awe in the listener. Her new song “Dancing on the Stars”, may even trump Voila in popularity and Emma was tailored made to sing it. She is absolutely amazing and destined to greatness.