Carlos Santiago, a 2010 graduate of Southeastern University, is currently captivating audiences nationwide as a contestant on Season 27 of NBC’s hit show The Voice. We sat down with Carlos to reflect on his journey — from his formative years of studying vocal performance at SEU to the national stage of televised competition and everything in between.
In this exclusive conversation, Carlos opens up about his faith, his artistry, and the moments that shaped his calling.
Southeastern University Experience
Q: How did you discover SEU, and what led you to attend?
After moving from Puerto Rico to Florida in 2002, I was attending Southside Assembly of God in Jacksonville. Our pastor at the time was an SEU graduate and recommended the university. Initially, I had plans to study classical guitar at Pepperdine, but when that fell through financially, I turned my focus to singing—and SEU’s vocal program was the right fit.
Q: What was your academic program at SEU?
I completed a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance.* My primary voice teacher was Professor Edward Bryant, who was an incredible influence during my time there.
Q: How did SEU shape you both spiritually and musically?
Spiritually, the emphasis on servant leadership had a lasting impact. I remember reading Dr. Mark Rutland’s Character Matters and attending leadership groups as a freshman. Those values carried through to my career.
Musically, SEU instilled a deep commitment to excellence. Faculty members like Dr. Dan Gordon, Mr. Bryant, Dr. Tyndall, and others held high standards. Their investment shaped not only my technique but also my work ethic and outlook on teaching.
Q: Do you have any particular memories from your time on campus?
So many. Singing at chapel, performing at the Polk Theatre, and spending long evenings rehearsing for operas. I remember watching sunsets from the lawn near the library and feeling grateful for the environment I was in. One moment I’ll never forget was after graduation — I paused at the security gate before leaving campus for the last time. It was a quiet moment of reflection that has stayed with me ever since.
Q: Were you involved in other musical ensembles at SEU?
Yes. I participated in Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, jazz ensemble, and performance showcases like Night on Broadway and Night at the Opera. Anything music-related I could manage with my schedule, I was involved in.
Personal Journey and Musical Roots
Q: When did your passion for music begin?
Around age 14. That’s when I knew I wanted to pursue music seriously. I was all in.
Q: You performed Richard Marx’s Right Here Waiting for your audition. What drew you to that particular song?
We were given a list of songs to choose from, and I needed something that could reflect both my classical training and my commercial work. This one fit perfectly. It also carried personal meaning — just three weeks before the audition, I had gotten married. Singing those lyrics while being physically away from my new wife brought authenticity to the performance.
Q: You’re now a professor of music. Where do you currently teach?
I serve as an adjunct professor of Commercial Voice at Lipscomb University in Nashville. I’ve been teaching there since 2022, and it’s a role I truly value.
Q: What did your professional journey look like between graduating from SEU and beginning your role at Lipscomb?
After graduating, I lived in Jacksonville until 2019, primarily serving in churches and singing. In 2016, I briefly toured with a classical crossover tenor group, performing music in the style of Josh Groban and Andrea Bocelli.
After relocating to Nashville, I transitioned into studio work as a session singer. That included recording vocals for EA video games, film projects like Devotion, demo tracks for Andrea Bocelli’s team (Bocelli learned some of his songs to the sound of my voice, which is pretty cool!), and I was in a Netflix show hosted by Titus Burgess called Sing On!. Each of those opportunities helped me grow both technically and creatively as a vocalist.
The Voice: Competition and Perspective
Q: You first auditioned years ago— what brought you back this season?
Back in Season 3, I did an open cattle-call audition and didn’t make it through. I had pretty much written it off after that. But last year, my dad submitted my name and videos without telling me and I got a callback! He eventually confessed and said, “You don’t have to go, but I believe in you.” I couldn’t ignore that level of belief, so I moved forward with the process and I am so glad I did.
Q: What has stood out to you about the competition, especially behind the scenes?
The production is incredibly professional. Hundreds of people — from vocal coaches to stylists — work around the clock to support the contestants. The level of care and coordination is impressive. There’s so much you don’t see on TV, and it’s amazing how much work goes into it all.
Q: Where do you hope this opportunity leads?
The show is giving me a platform, and I want to use that momentum to grow. I already perform regularly in Nashville, and my goal is to continue expanding that reach with integrity and purpose.
Guidance for Future Artists
Q: What advice would you offer to current students pursuing careers in the arts?
First, work hard. Talent alone won’t carry you far.
Second, know your lane. The sooner you discover who you are as an artist or teacher, the more intentional your path becomes.
And third, learn how to run a business. Most artists are self-employed, and managing things like taxes, contracts, and personal branding is essential. Consider minoring in business or taking courses outside your discipline. Those skills will sustain your career long-term.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to your college-age self, what would it be?
Do your homework — and trust that it’s going to turn out better than you think. I started college young, and looking back, I know I could have applied myself more. Still, every part of the journey helped shape who I am today.
Rapid Fire Questions
Q: Let’s end with a few quick favorites. What’s your go-to karaoke song?
“Separate Ways” by Journey
Q: Favorite worship song to sing?
“Is He Worthy”
Q: Dream duet partner?
Andrea Bocelli
Q: One song that describes your life right now?
“Biblical” by Calum Scott
Stay Tuned
Carlos Santiago’s story is one of faith, resilience, and steady growth. From long hours in SEU’s music halls to televised performances on The Voice, his journey is a testament to the transformative power of discovering and developing your Divine Design.
Stay tuned as Carlos continues to represent the SEU community with passion and excellence on the national stage.
* The current degree offerings in the SEU School of Music include a Bachelor of Arts in Music, a Bachelor of Science in Commercial Music, a Bachelor of Science in Worship Studies, and a Bachelor of Music Education.
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