Cori Kennedy is proving that lightning can strike twice. The Minnesota singer-songwriter, who first went viral for her witty Johnny Cash water tower ballad, has captured the internet’s attention again — this time on one of the biggest stages in music television: The Voice.

From a Water Tower Prank to a Viral Hit

It all started back in 2022 with a bizarre and now legendary prank. An unknown gunman shot a hole in the Kingsland, Arkansas water tower, right in the “sensitive area” of Johnny Cash’s mural. Photos of the leaking tower quickly went viral, giving the illusion that the Man in Black was relieving himself over the town.

Months later, Cori Kennedy came across the story on Instagram and TikTok. Inspired by its humor and country spirit, she wrote “Hey Who Shot the Water Tower” in just one hour. The tongue-in-cheek ballad exploded online, earning nearly 15 million TikTok views and sparking messages from Kingsland locals, Johnny Cash’s relatives, and even the accused shooter.

“Overnight, it was just crazy work,” Kennedy recalled. “And then it just kept going, and going, and going.”

That moment launched Kennedy from a small-town songwriter to a rising name in country and Americana music.

A Standout Blind Audition on The Voice

On September 29, Kennedy took her talents to The Voice Season 28 Blind Auditions. Performing a heartfelt rendition of The Judds’ “Why Not Me,” she immediately earned chair turns from Reba McEntire and Michael Bublé, while Snoop Dogg and Niall Horan cheered her on from their seats.

Then came the surprise. Kennedy revealed she had written a special tribute song for the coaches, performing an original piece that highlighted her journey from a “zero stoplight town” to The Voice stage. She playfully teased each coach, earning roars of laughter and applause:

• She called Reba her “redhead fancy queen.”

• Admitted a One Direction crush to Niall.

• Joked about Bublé singing like a Christmas star while struggling to start a frozen Minnesota car.

• Teased Snoop for not being part of her childhood soundtrack.

By the end of her performance, all four coaches were on their feet.

“Your voice is wonderful — such power,” McEntire said.
Bublé added, “It’s like country with a little mix of Stevie Nicks. I was blown away.”
Even Snoop chimed in: “Next time you come on The Voice, come out with an original song. That bangs!”

Viral Once Again

Kennedy’s audition didn’t just charm the judges — it went viral online. Her Blind Audition tribute video has surpassed 5 million views across TikTok and Facebook overnight, cementing her status as both a savvy storyteller and a vocal powerhouse.

With her signature mix of wit, authenticity, and emotion, Cori Kennedy continues to bridge viral moments with genuine artistry. From writing a cheeky ode to Johnny Cash’s water tower to earning a standing ovation from Reba McEntire, she’s carving out a career defined by heart and originality.