Watching a good singing competition is always fun because no one can resist that first note in a blind audition, the judges' faces when a contestant shatters expectations, or the magic you feel when a voice feels like it's reaching right through the screen. These shows aren't just about finding the next big thing. They're about watching dreams take shape in real time.
From killer solos to fancy stage productions, the best competition series tap into that universal desire to be seen, heard, and celebrated. They remind us that talent doesn't live in a studio or a label. It can be found anywhere, waiting for its shot. The Voice (2011) and similar singing contests can be found on streamers like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max. And each one hits all the right notes.
The Voice (2011-Present)
If talent shows were songs, The Voice would top the charts over and over again. Adapted from The Voice of Holland, the contest follows a blind audition format, which means coaches pick singers based only on what they hear, which gives everyone an equal chance to be discovered. But it's not just about who can hit the highest note.
It's also about creative interpretation and the connection between mentor and performer. The chemistry between the coaches (and the occasional playful rivalry) adds a dose of fun to the pressure and keeps things fresh season after season. The Voice is perfect for anyone who loves artistry over image, which can often feel superficial.
American Idol (2002-Present)
Long before streaming existed, there was American Idol. This singing contest turned living-room karaoke into a worldwide phenomenon by giving regular people a stage that was big enough to change their lives. From Kelly Clarkson's debut with "A Moment Like This," to Carrie Underwood's rise to country royalty, American Idol has consistently delivered.
It is the perfect show for anyone who gets a little teary-eyed when a contestant dedicates a song to a loved one, or who loves the simple magic of a microphone and a dream. The beauty of American Idol lies in its sincerity, with the rawest expression of ambition you'll find on television. While The Voice focuses on mentorship, American Idol is the blueprint for every talent show that followed.
The Masked Singer (2019-Present)
The Masked Singer sees various celebrities dress up in elaborate disguises to perform hit songs, while a panel of judges tries to guess who's behind the mask based on a set of provided clues. After all the performances have concluded, the masked singer with the least amount of votes reveals their identity to the audience.
This show is made for people who love a good guessing game as much as a good performance. There's also something delightful about hearing a famous voice in a brand-new context. While The Voice asks us to judge singers by sound, The Masked Singer adds mystery to the formula, creating a kind of joyful chaos that few other shows can match.
Building the Band (2025-Present)
Building the Band is all about chemistry. This series takes solo performers and pairs them up to form six entirely new bands, complete with all the creative clashes, breakthroughs, and late-night rehearsals that come with it. Watching artists figure out if their styles (and personalities) can coexist is as tense as it is inspiring. At the end of the season, one band is named as the winner.
While The Voice focuses on individuals, Building the Band celebrates teamwork. The show also gives viewers an inside look at what happens when people with the same level of talent have to find common rhythm. The result is not always pretty, but when it works, it's electric. The show is ideal for anyone who loves behind-the-scenes storytelling.
Eurovision Song Contest (1956-Present)
The Eurovision Song Contest is a popular event that has been bringing together various nations in Europe since 1956. Each year, many countries compete in a celebration of music, performing original songs that range from ballads to pop. Performers represent their countries with unique songs, often mixing different styles and languages in ways that mainstream pop would not try.
Eurovision is where ABBA debuted on the music scene with "Waterloo" in 1974 and where Celine Dion won for "Ne partez pas sans moi" in 1988. This shows that what happens on that stage can resonate for years. While The Voice focuses solely on talent, Eurovision elevates the experience, making it ideal for anyone who likes their music with a touch of political meaning.
