Michael Bublé had to overcome impostor syndrome before accepting a role on The Voice.

The Grammy winner, who makes his coaching debut on the singing competition show tonight, has revealed that season 26 was not his first invitation to join the NBC series. In fact, he told Today that he had “15-16 years of saying no” before he ultimately agreed.

What is causing his hesitation? Bublé disliked the concept of “judging” other performers.

“My favorite part about it is, thank God we’re not judges,” Bublé said to Craig Melvin, the host. “Other shows have judges. We’re coaches. I say this because the majority of the vocalists are better than me, and I have no right to judge anyone.

He went on to say, “To be able to teach them and live the dream of having this career that I’ve had, and then to be able to assist someone else achieve it?” That’s the cool part.”

Bublé previously participated on The Voice during its third season, serving as an advisor for Team Blake when nine-time champion Blake Shelton sought assistance teaching his team. But this time, Bublé will have to lead with fellow newcomer Snoop Dogg and seasoned mentors Reba McEntire and Gwen Stefani.

Despite having beginner’s luck and his unique perspective, Bublé is not yet prepared to dismiss his competitors.

“My team is really good, but everyone has good stuff going on on their team,” he said before giving a few complimentary nicknames for his co-coaches. “We nickname her Reba ‘Magnet-ire’ because, when the chair spins around, the audience absolutely loves her and her grin.” Gwen, on the other hand, embodies ‘Never Ste-phony,’ a trait that signifies her unwavering clarity. She is extremely intelligent and straightforward in her communication. Everyone truly loves Snoop, my Uncle Snoop.

Bublé faces formidable opposition from his fellow judges, particularly reigning winner McEntire, who is still on a high following her first triumph as a coach last season. The show’s competitive element is a big part of its allure, but during an interview with Entertainment Weekly for Fall TV Previews, Bublé made it clear that he and his fellow coaches take their influence on the vocalists extremely seriously.

Despite the fact that this is a TV show and that each of us plays a role, I can assure you that it’s not a game for anyone. He went on: “We understand that this is each of these people’s life, fate, and dream. And we realize we’re an important part of this journey.”

He said, “We are not judges. Who are we to judge? We are coaches, and we aim to use our expertise, love of music, and enthusiasm to help them become better musicians and navigate this road.”