The Masked Singer: Predicting the Buffalo’s Identity and Analyzing Clues

CAUTION! THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS SIGNIFICANT SPOILERS FOR THE MASKED SINGER SEASON 12! The eagerly awaited The Masked Singer season 12 kicked off with the introduction of a new and intriguing contestants—the Buffalos. The premiere night was full of excitement as host Nick Cannon joined returning judges Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, Ken Jeong, and Rita Ora. Fans were pleasantly surprised to learn that the Buffalos are actually a trio of singers rather than a single performer.

In the initial phase of the competition, contestants were divided into groups, with Group A featuring notable contenders like Leaf Sheep (John Elway), Showbird (Yvette Nicole Brown), Woodpecker (Marsai Martin), Ship (Paula Cole), and, of course, the Buffalos. Group B included Wasp, Dust Bunny (Andy Richter), Chess Piece (Laverne Cox), Bluebell (Natalie Imbruglia), and Goo (Kobie Turner), while Group C featured Macaron (Bethany Hamilton), Ice King (Drake Bell), Royal Knight (Jana Kramer), Sherlock Hound (Bronson Arroyo), and Strawberry Shortcake (AJ Michalka). This article dives into the various clues leading to the true identities of the Buffalos, along with some intriguing guesses from the judges.

Unraveling the Buffalos’ Identity

Diverse Guesses from the Panelists

Robin Thicke and Jenny McCarthy on The Masked Singer

As the competition unfolded, the panelists offered a range of guesses regarding the identity of the Buffalos. Jenny McCarthy speculated they could be part of B2K, and Rita Ora agreed, but later suggested the possibility of Earth, Wind & Fire. Robin Thicke countered by suggesting they might be connected to the Jonas Brothers or possibly even 98 Degrees, hinting that Nick Lachey could have sent them.

During Footloose Night, Ken Jeong proposed that they might be Bell Biv DeVoe, while Jenny believed they could also be 112 or even Boyz II Men. Robin, however, continued to push the idea of the Jonas Brothers, eventually shifting his guess to Big Time Rush. Nick asserted he was fairly confident about the Buffalos’ identity and stated that everyone was “really close.”

When Soundtrack of My Life Night arrived, the guesses evolved once more. Jenny reiterated her belief that they resembled B2K and Boyz II Men, but Ken insisted they were actually Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, which met with disapproval from the audience. Rita speculated on the Black-Eyed Peas, though Robin dismissed this idea.

As the competition progressed into the quarterfinals, Robin suggested they might be the Temptations, while Ken championed Tony! Toni! Toné!. Rita speculated they could be Blackstreet. Jenny pushed her theory that the Buffalos were likely Boyz II Men, especially after a connection was revealed between the trio and her.

Nick Lachey: The Buffalos’ Masked Ambassador

A Connection to the Past

Nick Lachey and Nick Cannon on The Masked Singer

This season marked the first time that previous contestants have acted as Masked Ambassadors, helping to bridge connections with new participants. Notably, Nick Lachey, the winner of season 5, stepped into this role and referred to the Buffalos as “a national treasure”that always becomes the highlight of his extravagant Super Bowl parties. Following their performance, Nick provided yet another clue—this time, a crown.

Buffalos’ Premiere Night Performance & Clues

Interesting Insights on the Buffalos

Watch the performance here

During their premiere performance on The Masked Singer, the Buffalos enchanted the audience with their rendition of “(I Just) Died in Your Arms”by Cutting Crew. The trio harmonized beautifully while incorporating choreography into their routine. Notably, one of the Buffalos sported two playing cards—a three and a king—set in his cowboy hat.

Throughout their clue package, Nick elaborated on the Buffalos’ challenging beginnings, stating they were raised in impoverished regions and faced severe hardships. He mentioned that the contestants endured nights in bug-infested beds and rehearsed at bus stops.

A poignant moment arrived when one Buffalo was depicted stepping on cockroaches rhythmically, accompanied by imagery of a football player at a bus stop, mentioning a crucial break during a cattle call that marked the beginning of their success.

Additional clues were included in the package, such as images of Betty White and Vanna White from a slot machine. One Buffalo commented on the immense opportunities they encountered, highlighting their appearances on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and their roles in two of the most famous sitcoms of all time. A Buffalo concluded by saying, “we hit the jackpot, and we couldn’t have done it alone.”

Footloose Night Performance & Clues

Showcasing Their Unique Clues

Watch the performance here

On Footloose Night, the Buffalos delivered an impressive rendition of “Waiting for a Girl Like You”by Foreigner. As part of their clue package, they showcased how they resonate with the defiant spirit of the song. One Buffalo opened with, “You know how when someone tells you you can’t do something, you just want to do it more?”He drew parallels between their rebellious journey and the characters in Footloose, revealing they’re each individuals who found one another against the odds.

As the performance progressed, the Buffalos played poker amongst themselves. One mentioned how critics often told them they couldn’t pursue their passions, yet they proved them wrong by celebrating their uniqueness. Another Buffalo claimed, “And if you think we take ourselves too seriously? Look at us. We’re here dressed as some Wrestlemania buffalos about to sing a track from Footloose. We’re funny as hell.”

The performance concluded with one Buffalo introducing their “love song,”illustrating their fun-loving and rich personalities. As part of their clues, a small tractor emblazoned with “MO-TOWN”appeared, with a Buffalo explaining they were using it to mow lawns around town.

Soundtrack of My Life Night Performances & Clues

Glimpses into Their Personal Journeys

Watch the performance here

During the Soundtrack of My Life Night and Group A finals, the Buffalos captivated the audience with “High Hopes”by Panic! At the Disco followed by “Bittersweet Symphony”by The Verve.

The trio reflected on their journey to the finals, emphasizing their commitment to “digging deep”with their performance of “Bittersweet Symphony.”One Buffalo stated that hardships reveal harmony among individuals.

Participants shared the influence of a cowboy in their lives, whom they lost unexpectedly, leading to a heartfelt moment where they expressed their grief and determination to continue their legacy.

After performing, one member disclosed their extensive time in the entertainment industry. He revealed a time capsule containing a vintage “Halftime Show”t-shirt as a clue, alluding to their past experiences before a massive audience.

After Woodpecker was unmasked, the Buffalos and Ship battled in a face-off, with both groups delivering unique renditions of “Go Your Own Way”by Fleetwood Mac. The panelists voted the Buffalos into the quarterfinals.

Quarterfinals Performance & Clues

Trials and Triumphs Shared by the Buffalos

Watch the performance here

During the quarterfinals, the Buffalos delivered a breathtaking performance of “You’re Still the One”by Shania Twain, showcasing their signature harmonization. The clue package began with an affirmation of their transformative journey as friends who received a new direction through their participation in The Masked Singer.

Looking back, one Buffalo described how donning their masks did not conceal their identities but revealed their true selves. They expressed profound connections, stating they are “more than friends, more than brothers, a bond beyond words.”However, past events threatened to fracture this beautiful blend.

Through perseverance and divine guidance, they overcame their challenges and emphasized that their future actions aim to benefit the next generation. A Buffalo remarked that family is paramount, and everything they do is dedicated to their loved ones.

The Buffalos received another clue: a phone call from the esteemed artist Babyface, who praised their performances and encouraged them to continue striving for greatness. The Buffalos expressed their long-time desire to collaborate with Babyface, highlighting its profound impact on them.

Ultimately, the Buffalos secured their place in the semi-finals, joining Wasp, while Goo and Strawberry Shortcake faced off, resulting in Goo’s unmasking as NFL player Kobie Turner.

Semi-Finals Performances & Clues

Performing for the Next Generation

Buffalo promotional photo from The Masked Singer

The Buffalos returned for the semi-finals with an extraordinary rendition of “Africa”by Toto, once more showcasing their amazing harmonies.

Beginning their clue package, one Buffalo explained their determination to excel in the semi-finals. Despite being told to conform, they stayed true to their authentic selves, which they perceive as a vital example for their children. Another Buffalo candidly shared, “Hearing their voices turns every day around, and that gives us genuine reasons to keep going.”Together, they aspire to set an inspiring example for the next generation.

As emotions ran deep, the Buffalos expressed their love for their children, dedicating every performance to them while emphasizing the joy of sharing their journey with their kids.

Their bond was reinforced when Nick prompted them to express their feelings towards one another, leading to a heartwarming exchange filled with gratitude and brotherhood. Additionally, a friendship bracelet linked to Jenny’s husband, Donnie Wahlberg, emerged as another clue, emphasizing their strong relationships.

In a lighthearted turn, a collective clue was presented to Nick—a friendship bracelet celebrating their connections with him, showing how intertwined their lives have become.

After an exhilarating performance where the Buffalos faced off against Strawberry Shortcake, they emerged victorious, progressing to the season finale following a thrilling Smack Royale where they belted out “Counting Stars”by OneRepublic, leading to Strawberry Shortcake’s unmasking as AJ Michalka.

Overall, the Buffalos’ revelation as a trio was an exciting twist for The Masked Singer season 12. With their stellar harmonies and engaging personalities, they have impressed audiences and judges alike. Their journey is poised to continue as they gear up for the exciting season finale against Wasp, where they aim to take home the coveted Golden Mask trophy.

The Masked Singer airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. EDT on FOX.

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