SIDNEY, Neb. — Country artist Jaelen Johnston closed out the Season 27 finale of The Voice Monday night with a performance of Chris Stapleton’s “Cold,” drawing high praise from his coach, Kelsea Ballerini.

“I’m out of breath. I’m sweating,” Ballerini said following the performance. “Jaelen picked this song, and when he did, I was nervous. It’s such a big song to take on. But once we got to rehearsal and I heard him sing it, I said, ‘I simply digress.’ I didn’t know how good you were until you did that song.”

Johnston, 21, of Derby, Kansas, is the first “Super Save” artist to reach the finale and now hopes to become the first in that position to win it all. His finale included two performances — Stapleton’s “Cold” and Dierks Bentley’s “What Was I Thinkin’.” 

“This is the most nerve-racking thing you can do,” Ballerini said of Johnston’s set. “You locked back in, got back in your body, back in your voice and you delivered. I’m so proud of you.”

Johnston, who previously worked at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, left his job to pursue a music career full-time. His storytelling vocals and emotional performances earned him a spot in the top five, especially after his tribute to his late cousin during the semifinals with Lee Brice’s “I Drive Your Truck.”

“Being able to represent Team Kelsea in the finale on her first season — it has been a hell of a run,” Johnston said. “I wouldn’t be where I’m at now without her, my mom and my whole family. I want to bring home the win for them.”

Fan voting remains open until 5 a.m. Tuesday, with the Season 27 winner to be announced during NBC’s live results show Tuesday night.

“You continue to show up and grow every single time you get on this stage," Ballerini said. "You’ve always done it with kindness, grace, intention and heart to tell the story of country music. Vote for Jaelen, y’all.”

Johnston is scheduled to headline Downtown Sounds in Sidney, Neb., on Friday, July 18.

Also competing in the finale is Lincoln native Jadyn Cree, who represents Team Michael Bublé. Cree performed “Lose You to Love Me” by Selena Gomez and returned to the stage later with an energetic version of “Come On Eileen” by Dexys Midnight Runners.

“You’re a star. You’re a pop star,” Bublé said. “Everything you are just comes through. You bring so much joy. You lead with light. I’m so happy for you.”

Cree, whose father previously finished third on The Voice, added with a laugh: “He told me I either have to win or get third place or lower, because if I get second and just beat him, he’s going to be mad.”

Bublé praised her further, saying, “Jadyn has a magic that draws you in. She has a voice that is so distinct and unique. When you add that to what a beautiful human being she is, it’s been inspiring.”

Johnston and Cree are among five finalists vying for the national title on The Voice Season 27.