The Sing-Off is an American television singing competition featuring a cappella groups. It premiered on NBC on December 14, 2009, and is produced by Sony Pictures Television. It is hosted by Nick Lachey (formerly of the boy band 98 Degrees), with judges Ben Folds, Shawn Stockman (of the R&B; vocal group Boyz II Men), and originally Nicole Scherzinger, later replaced by Sara Bareilles. The show's music staff all come from the a cappella community: Deke Sharon, Bill Hare, Ed Boyer and Ben Bram. A capella groups from the United States, including Puerto Rico, are chosen by audition and advanced in the competition based on judges' eliminations until the finale, with the winners being determined by viewer votes. The program has featured guest appearances by various popular artists, including Bobby McFerrin, Natasha Bedingfield, Jay Sean, Smokey Robinson, Neil Diamond, Boyz II Men, and Sara Bareilles. On February 22, 2011, The Sing-Off was renewed for a third season and is slated to air on September 19, 2011. Unlike previous seasons, this will start in September and will have more episodes produced.