This Monday, Dec. 17, 2012 file photo released by NBC shows Cassadee Pope performing on "The Voice," "Live Show" Episode 323A on the part one season 3 finale in Los Angeles. Three contestants, Pope, Terry McDermott and Nicholas David vie for the title in the NBC reality show. (AP Photo/NBC, Tyler Golden)

NEW YORK (AP) — Cassadee Pope, who was country singer Blake Shelton's protege on the third season of NBC's "The Voice," has won the show's competition.

The 23-year-old singer is stepping out into a solo career after performing with a band called Hey Monday. Her victory over Scottish native Terry McDermott and long-bearded Nicholas David was announced at the end of a two-hour show Tuesday.

"The Voice" has grown into a hit for NBC and was the key factor in the network's surprising success this fall.

The show's status was affirmed by the stream of hitmakers who performed on the finale. They included Rihanna, Bruno Mars, the Killers, Smokey Robinson and Peter Frampton.

Associated Press
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