(JAN. 25, 2023) -- Cherokee County resident and “The Voice” Season 22 winner Bryce Leatherwood joined the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners Tuesday evening for the presentation of a proclamation honoring not only his success but also the way he represented Cherokee County and the state of Georgia on a national stage.

The proclamation proclaimed Jan. 24, 2023 Bryce Leatherwood Day in Cherokee County.

“Being recognized is an honor to not only have a voice for Georgia but to also represent the people of Georgia. This proclamation by Cherokee County and my hometown is a dream come true,” Leatherwood said.

Leatherwood grew up in the Hickory Flat area, attending Hickory Flat Elementary, Dean Rusk Middle School and Sequoyah High School. He graduated in 2018. District 2 Commissioner Richard Weatherby, who represents the Hickory Flat area, invited Leatherwood and his family for the proclamation.

“I was so impressed with Bryce’s talent and how he represented Cherokee County competing on ‘The Voice.’ He’s a humble, respectful young man, and he represented our county with class,” Weatherby said. “When you can see someone live out their dream and do what they love, it’s a really cool thing. I felt it was important that we, as a Board, recognize the accomplishments of this young man raised here in Cherokee County.”

Leatherwood had his choice of “The Voice” judges, and he ultimately selected country music superstar, Blake Shelton.

Shelton remained his coach throughout the duration of Season 22, and helped guide him with song choice and performance coaching, while also becoming a friend.

“My time on ‘The Voice’ was a one-in-a-lifetime experience. I’m just very glad to have represented my hometown well and to have put country music to the forefront of the nation,” he said.

Capturing the title of the Season 22 “The Voice” winner secured Leatherwood a record deal with Republic Records and a move to Nashville, Tenn. to follow his dreams.

As for the future, Leatherwood is taking his Georgia Southern University business degree and his record deal to a new home with plans to write and record country music.

“I will be moving to Nashville to continue writing, recording and performing music for my fans all across Georgia and around the world,” he said, adding that while he may be moving to Nashville, Cherokee County “will always be home.”