The fourth season of NBCs “The Voice” premiered tonight with some big changes. 

Multi-platinum Grammy winners Shakira and Usher are filling the big red seats this season usually occupied by Christina Aguilera and Cee Lo Green who are  taking time off after three seasons of ratings-boosting coach chemistry with Adam Levine and Blake Shelton. 

As the ratings for “American Idol” and “X Factor” decline despite judging shakeups, “The Voice” executive producer Mark Burnett insists that Shakira and Ushers addition to the panel will help take them over the competition.  He tells “USA Today” that the transition has been “harmonious” and hes sure the audience will “fall in love” with what the new judges bring to the table. 

Levine says Shakira is “a firecracker” with whom he meshes well, as theyre both “very confident.” 

Usher, too, is feeling good about his chances at picking this seasons winner.  The singer has some experience in artist development, having helped launch the career of one of todays biggest stars, Justin Bieber. 

The blind auditions kicked off tonight with a two-hour premiere special on NBC.