5 Reasons Why The World Needs Season 5 Of The Sing-Off

As a cappella enthusiasts, we're somewhat upset (read: completely and utterly devastated) that it looks as though there will not be a fifth season of NBC's The Sing-Off. At least, not this year. If we could knock on the doors of the studio network executives, here are the reasons we would use to convince them why the show belongs back on the air.

UPDATE (09.09.2014 @ 3:30 p.m. PDT)

Since this article was posted, The Sing-Off's own producer/arranger/mentor extraordinaire, Deke Sharon, released audition dates for a new season of The Sing-Off!!! Looks like our a cappella prayers have been answered.

Deke Sharon / Via Facebook: DekeSharon

5. The Judges

In the over-saturated 'reality singing competition' category of television, it's refreshing to see one where the judges actually, well, judge.

The current lineup of Shawn Stockman, Jewel, and Ben Folds, not only provide colourful commentary (we still giggle over Ben's "bass in my butt" comment) but they also give plenty of constructive feedback for the contestants to improve their sound. Plus with their extensive experience, we as the audience get a few lessons on the world of a cappella. Who says reality television can't be fun and educational?

Shawn Stockman, Jewel, & Ben Folds

NBC / Via nbc.com

4. The New Age Of A Cappella

Although a cappella has been around for a long time, its recent incarnation has enjoyed a steady increase in interest with a dedicated and growing fanbase. Thanks in part to The Sing-Off and a tiny, little film that came out last year... *cough*PitchPerfect*cough* :)

Yes, we are aware the film isn't solely responsible for making a cappella "cool again", but you cannot deny its massive impact. And speaking of Pitch Perfect, be on the lookout for some familiar faces joining the Bardem Bellas in the much anticipated sequel (coming out next May). Sing-Off alums, Season 4's The Filharmonic and Season 3 Champions Pentatonix, are slated to have cameos in the film!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Not sure if you can tell, we're a tad excited.

The Filharmonic

Hollywood Reporter / Via hollywoodreporter.com

Pentatonix

Entertainment Weekly / Via insidemovies.ew.com

3. The Group Performances

There is something to be said about a chorus of incredibly gifted voices joining together in song. It's breathtaking.

They also showcase just how much all the contestants genuinely care about each other. There is so much camaraderie between the groups, even though at the end of the day, it's still a competition.

To choose a single performance from the countless number of incredible Sing-Off showstoppers was definitely a challenge, but back in Season 2, this number closed out the finale episode and it was, and still is, epic.

The Sing-Off Season 2 Finalists - Fix You

NBC / Via youtube.com

2. The Success Stories

There is no denying the extraordinary amount of talent on The Sing-Off and it's evident the show played a part in launching a few careers. Lucky for us fans, some of our favourites have released albums and are even touring (The Filharmonic, Home Free, Pentatonix, Street Corner Symphony, and VoicePlay, just to name a few). And for those who can't make it out to a live show (we feel your pain), there is always our trusty pal, YouTube :)

We must admit, as much as we enjoy the covers done by these aca-mazing groups, it's their original songs that are the real gems.

Home Free - Any Way The Wind Blows

Home Free / Via youtube.com

Pentatonix - Run To You

PTX / Via youtube.com

Street Corner Symphony - Voodoo

Street Corner Symphony / Via youtube.com

1. The Voices

What's compelling about a cappella to us is that it's raw, honest, simple, and completely in the moment. Something magical happens between the artist and their audience during a live performance. There is an exchange of energy that is almost tangible. Sometimes you even forget that what you're hearing is just voices. So here for your enjoyment is a small selection of some of our favourite stand out performances. If this doesn't convince you that The Sing-Off needs to come back, we don't know what will. Cue the a cappella shame spiral.*

Afro Blue - Killing Me Softly

NBC / Via youtube.com

The Backbeats - Landslide

NBC / Via youtube.com

The Beelzebubs - Come Sail Away

NBC / Via youtube.com

Committed - Apologize

NBC / Via youtube.com

Dartmouth Aires - Queen Medley

NBC / Via youtube.com

Delilah - Grenade

NBC / Via youtube.com

Groove For Thought - Cooler Than Me

NBC / Via youtube.com

Jerry Lawson & Talk of the Town - House of the Rising Sun

NBC / Via youtube.com

Kinfolk9 - Secrets

NBC / Via youtube.com

Nota - Down

NBC / Via youtube.com

On The Rocks - Live Your Life

NBC / Via youtube.com

Pentatonix - Love Lockdown

NBC / Via youtube.com

Street Corner Symphony - Hey Soul Sister

NBC / Via youtube.com

Urban Method - Love The Way You Lie

NBC / Via youtube.com

Vocal Point - Every Little Step

NBC / Via youtube.com

*Author's Note: We realize that we're missing many memorable performances from the most recent season of the show. However, as Canadians, NBC hasn't given us the privilege of watching those videos on their official YouTube channel. If someone could bring this issue up with the network and get a renewal deal inked, that would be much appreciated ;)