Cori Kennedy: Minnesota Native and Softball Player on The Voice Season 28
Hey, reality TV fans and country music lovers—meet Cori Kennedy, the 29-year-old powerhouse from West Concord, Minnesota, who’s trading her catcher’s mitt for a mic on The Voice Season 28. Her heartfelt rendition of The Judds’ “Why Not Me” during the September 29, 2025 blind auditions turned two chairs, from Reba McEntire and Michael Bublé, and won over America with her country charm and grit.
Cori’s story goes beyond the stage lights. She’s a former college softball standout from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and her viral past has fans cheering louder than a home run crowd. From diamond dreams to spotlight success, here’s everything to know about her bio, family roots, and unforgettable audition.
Who Is Cori Kennedy? A Quick Bio
Cori Kennedy is the definition of small-town talent with big-time drive. Born and raised in Kasson-Mantorville, Minnesota, she grew up as one of six musical siblings, learning guitar and piano while harmonizing around the family table. Though sports dominated her early years, music never left her heart.
Her blind audition aired on September 29, 2025, where she delivered a soulful country rendition of “Why Not Me” by The Judds. Both Reba and Bublé turned their chairs, but Cori ultimately joined Team Reba, citing her lifelong love of country icons like The Judds. After her audition, she surprised everyone with a playful original song packed with personalized shoutouts to the coaches—earning laughs and instant fan-favorite status.
Fun fact: Cori first went viral in college thanks to her hilarious “instructional” softball videos, which racked up millions of views on Twitter (now X).
Cori Kennedy Age
At 29, Cori Kennedy is blending youthful confidence with the experience of someone who’s already conquered the sports world. Born October 4, 1996, she graduated from Kasson-Mantorville High in 2015 and says her age gives her perspective: “I’ve waited long enough—why not me?” Kennedy was 28 years old when she auditioned for tThe Voice season 28.
Cori Kennedy Parents
Kennedy is the daughter of Matt and Tammy Kennedy.
Height
Cori Kennedy stands 5 feet 6 inches tall, a height that served her well as a powerhouse catcher as a softball player.
College Career: Minnesota State University, Mankato Maverick
A proud Minnesota State University, Mankato alum, Cori played for the Mavericks softball team from 2016 to 2019. As a catcher (#15), she started 54 of 55 games in 2019, batting .348 with 10 doubles, two triples, and five home runs.
Cori Kennedy: Softball Star Turned Singer
Before hitting The Voice stage, Cori made her mark as a standout athlete and viral creator. Her comedic softball “tutorials” became internet gold, showcasing her timing and charisma long before NBC came calling. Now, she’s channeling that same fearless energy into her music career.
The Voice Season 28 Contestants
Apart from Cori Kennedy, 29, a Minnesota native and former softball player, who auditioned with The Judds’ “Why Not Me,” earning a spot on Team Reba, other contestants who got chair turns include Jazz McKenzie, Vinya Chhabra, Dustin Dale Gaspard, Aubrey Nicole, Ava Natalie Milone, Rob Cole, Sadie Dahl, Blake Ellis, McKenzie Phipps, Kirbi, Kanard Thomas, Peyton Kyle Lane, Carolina Rodriguez, Trinity Giselle, Teo Ramdel, Letter to Elise, and Lauren Anderson.
Cori Kennedy’s Instagram handle is @cori__kennedy.
FAQs About Cori Kennedy
1. How old is Cori Kennedy?
Cori is 29 years old, born on October 4, 1996
2. Where is Cori Kennedy from?
She’s from West Concord, Minnesota.
3. Who are Cori Kennedy’s parents?
Cori’s father is Matt Kennedy and her mother is Tammy Kennedy.
4. Which coaches turned for Cori on The Voice?
Reba McEntire and Michael Bublé. She chose Team Reba.
5. Was Cori on The Voice a softball player?
Yes, she was a catcher for the Minnesota State University, Mankato Mavericks.
6. What song did Cori sing on The Voice?
“The Judds’ ‘Why Not Me.’”