A Capella Meets Evolution
The term "a cappella" might evoke images of monks singing in ancient halls, but Pentatonix has taken this age-old art form to celestial heights. With three Grammys and over ten million albums sold, they've blended their voices into a phenomena that never fails to inspire.
Kirstin Maldonado, Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kevin Olusola, and Matt Sallee aren't just bandmates—they're a family forged through years of musical collaboration. "We've just blended together throughout the years just because of how long we've been together," remarks Maldonado, setting the tone for an exploration of both their music and relationships.
"When our different timbres come together, it feels like a hug. It's really magical," adds Hoying.
The Journey Begins
At their Texas high school, a teenage trio formed—one soprano, one baritone, and one countertenor. Initially, Mitchell Grassi struggled with his higher register, often ridiculed for what some termed a "feminine voice," but he transformed that very uniqueness into their trademark sound. Together with Hoying and Maldonado, they became a powerhouse trio that only needed to grow.
Entering the Spotlight
In 2011, Pentatonix tried out for NBC's "The Sing-Off," realizing they needed more layers to their sound. Enter Avi Kaplan and the innovative Kevin Olusola, who adeptly melded cello-playing with beatboxing. "It was definitely not the plan!" Olusola says, reflecting on giving up pre-med aspirations for this new musical venture. Winning meant not just fame but also a pesky challenge—labels wanted them to abandon their a cappella roots.
"We just won an a cappella TV show!" they protested, but the industry had little patience for purveyors of pure vocalization. What followed was a pivot toward YouTube, where they rapidly gained millions of subscribers, the a cappella community rallying behind them and broadening its appeal.
Hard Work Pays Off
As the releases piled up—three albums in 2014 alone—the group faced the harsh reality of constant touring and burnout. Less than a decade into their journey, Kaplan announced he needed to step back from the spotlight, a realization that echoed through the entire group.
His replacement, Matt Sallee, was a fan turned member who came prepared, knowing every song before he auditioned. "To be able to come into the group and continue its legacy was something that I cherish very deeply," he reflects, illustrating the weight of carrying on the Pentatonix name.
Focusing on the Future
Now years into their career, the priorities of each member have evolved. Marriage, children, and a desire for personal balance make the tight-knit quintet carefully consider their path forward. "We want to focus on what we want in this stage of our lives," says Olusola.
Interestingly, their latest album, "Christmas in the City," marks a departure from the a cappella format they've championed. It sparks a conversation about artistic growth, and Maldonado emphasizes, "If you put limits on your artistry, then you won't grow."
“We're not abandoning a cappella—we're just expanding,” Hoying hastens to clarify.
The Cultural Impact
Pentatonix has reshaped public perceptions of a cappella; once viewed as nerdy, the genre is enjoying a renaissance, with over 1,200 college groups now thriving. "We've given the choir kid a voice," says Sallee, reflecting the group's authenticity and relatability, a trait that's endeared them to fans worldwide.
Conclusion
The beauty of Pentatonix lies not just in their harmonies, but in their friendship and resilience through the evolving landscape of music. As they push boundaries and embrace new directions, they remain a beacon of creativity, reminding us all of the power of voices unified in harmony.
Extras
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This article is inspired by the features produced by Reid Orvedahl for CBS News.
Source reference: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/pentatonix-friendships-and-harmonies/
