ET on NBC Adam Levine's return to The Voice was a matter of timing. Speaking with PEOPLE at a junket ahead of the season 27 premiere of the singing competition show, the Maroon 5 frontman detailed his time away from the show — and revealed the reason behind his return.

Adam Levine returns as a coach on "The Voice" tonight after a five-year break. Here’s what led to his departure and why he’s back in the iconic red chair.

On one hand, Monday’s Season 27 premiere of The Voice seemed like old times, what with OG coach Adam Levine back on the panel. On the other, it felt like something was missing… or rather someone. The Maroon 5 frontman’s longtime foil,