Bruins showcase University’s musical excellence
In an unprecedented showing, Belmont alumni have claimed four coveted spots on NBC’s “The Voice,” with an especially strong presence on Team Reba, where they make up nearly one-third of Reba McEntire's elected squad. These alumni bring heart, artistry and the highest caliber of musicianship that defines Belmont’s music programs to millions of viewers each week.
Creigh Riepe: Letting faith lead
Creigh Riepe has called Nashville home since graduating from Belmont in 2013 with a degreein audio engineering technology and a minor in music business. Throughout the past decade, he’s built a career rooted in the foundational experiences gained during his time at Belmont — experiences that recently led him to secure a spot on Team Reba.
“Belmont laid the foundation for my understanding of many aspects of the music industry,” Riepe said. “From production to musicianship to contracts and intellectual property, the knowledge I gained continues to serve me in my daily career.”
Before auditioning, Riepe focused on aligning the opportunity with his values. “Everything I have — my life, my family, my career — are gifts from God. I knew that if I auditioned, it had to be for the purpose of sharing that part of my story.”
His faith-driven approach resonated beyond the stage. Riepe has shared clips on social media of spontaneous worship sessions held by a hotel pool, showcasing how his faith guides him on and off camera.
“Many of the contestants gathered on Sunday mornings and sang worship songs together, which reminded me a lot of the days at Belmont when groups of us would gather together and have acoustic jams around campus,” he reflected.
Riepe’s performance of “Beautiful Things” earned chair turns Gwen Stefani and Reba McEntire, a surreal moment for the father of two.
"It was emotional thinking about everything that led up to that moment –– the amount of work it took to get to that point, the fact that my family was there cheering me on and that I had been blessed with such a unique opportunity.”
Leah Colon: A voice of her own
A high school visit to watch her brother perform in Phoenix pop ensemble with Jamie Wigginton sealed Colon’s future.
“Being a vocalist in the Phoenix ensemble taught me the most about performing, captivating an audience and how to be a professional musician,” said Colon, 2020 graduate with a degree in commercial music and a songwriting emphasis. “I owe my career and any success to Jamie Wigginton.”
Despite a previous audition for “American Idol” in 2020, Colon’s path to “The Voice” came through an unexpected source. Her duo partner, Sav, signed them up for “The Voice” auditions without Colon knowing. “In hindsight, I am so thankful Sav signed us up,” she said.
Her duo MisterMoon’s decision to join Team Snoop proved an honor. “He is so kind and genuine. It has been incredible to get up close with him and try to soak up as much wisdom as he allows us.”
Colon credits Belmont’s tight-knit community for the support she still feels, especially during her time on the show.
“Though we don’t talk every day, my friends from Belmont have all reached out and encouraged me,” she said. Her ongoing connection with faculty reinforces the lasting impact of her Belmont experience.
Alison Elena: Seizing an opportunity
New York native, Alison Elena (public relations ‘18) transferred to Belmont as a junior to experience Nashville’s energy and gain critical industry knowledge.
"I wasn’t involved in music at Belmont, but minoring in music business helped me understand the industry,” she said. “It gave me a foundation for working smart.”
Elena discovered “The Voice” auditions through social media and sang for the coaches on the final day of tryouts.
“Being asked made me feel like it was a chance I had to take,” she said. “I feel like this town is all about taking any opportunity given to you.”
Her experience on “The Voice” has been transformative for Elena, revealing truths about herself and her artistry as part of Team Reba. “I’ve learned that music is subjective, and I don’t know if I believe in it as a competition,” she said. “I learned to love the lane you’re in and make the music you love, and then someone else will too.”
Tate Renner: Living his childhood dream
May 2024 entrepreneurship graduate Tate Renner turned his childhood dream into a reality on “The Voice.” His journey began spontaneously in his senior year after an Instagram ad led him to fill out an application.
“I didn’t think anything would come of it,” he recalled. “But then everything started to fall into place.”
Tate credits the University’s immersive music environment and dedicated faculty for shaping his musical aspirations. "Dwayne O'Brien's Survey of Music Business class really opened my eyes to the industry,” he said. “Hearing behind-the-scenes stories from someone who has lived it made a huge impact."
Working with country music icon Reba McEntire has transformed his performance style.
“It is an absolute blessing to call her my coach,” said Renner. “She constantly reminds me about eye contact. She’d make me sing directly to her, which was nerve-wracking but powerful. She taught me to keep the audience engaged, and it’s changed how I perform.”
As the season unfolds, “The Voice” promises to be a powerful journey for all the alumni contestants, offering them the chance to refine their vocal and performance skills on a national stage while connecting with a talented community of artists and industry professionals.
Read more inspiring Belmont Stories.