September 2010 saw the premiere of TV show, The Voice Of Holland, whose signature format -- the blind audition and battle rounds -- made it more gripping than other singing reality show competitions. Now with many countries having their own versions, The Voice franchise has become an esteemed entertainment institution, and in every country the quartet of coaches usually pull in strong TV ratings.
This Sunday on Channel 3, The Voice Thailand Season 5 will return. The big shake up of the season concerns one of the four oversized revolving chairs: the new season is without the outspoken and amusing songstress Jennifer Kim, who once said that she's typically ''The Voice'', referring to how vocal prowess is more important than good looks in becoming a singing diva.
Her exit follows last season's departure of Apiwat "Stamp" Ueathavornsuk, whose replacement had everyone guessing until the easy-going and hatted Singto Numchok was announced the new coach.
Without him having to croon his hit song Yoo Tor Loey Dai Mai? (Can I Stay?), Singto is still in the popular TV show along with veteran coaches, Joey Boy and Saharat "Kong" Sangkapricha.
The teaser features the three music stars hearing and chasing after a riveting vocal run, which leads them to the hooded Da Endorphine -- the rookie female coach. The boyish yet fashionista pop-rock diva may refresh The Voice Thailand, perhaps with an endorphin effect, to keep viewers happy.
Her stepping in wasn't as much as a surprise and there was more raised eyebrows in Jennifer Kim's dropout.
According to producer Ardkit Suntornwat, changing coaches is a normal thing which happens elsewhere in The Voice universe. Likewise, ex-coaches can make a comeback in commanding the coveted red chair.
The Voice Thailand's adjustment is not a big deal compared to changes in the US version, whose 11th season will begin airing from Sept 19.
Filling in the slots between Maroon 5 tattooed frontman Adam Levine and charming country singer Blake Shelton will be for the first time, two female coaches: pop princess Miley Cyrus and R&B diva Alicia Keys.
Other coaches that have been on NBC's top-rated programme include CeeLo Green, Christina Aguilera, Usher, Pharrell Williams, Shakira and Gwen Stefani.
By no doubt, the mix and chemistry between the coaches is crucial. The Voice US without Blake Shelton and Adam Levine is unimaginable, with the ''Shevine'' bromance and rivalry having given the show its greatest moments as much as contestants' epic performances.
