Port Mac Goss: Charlie O’Derry’s bright future

LAST Sunday at 7pm, many Port Macquarie locals tuned in to the Seven Network to see if local singer Charlie O’Derry made it through to the semi-finals of The Voice.

Charlie, and three others on his team, had to sing a song that was nominated by their coach Kate Miller-Heidke.

Charlie made it through and then had to sing another song on the same night to remain in the competition.

Unfortunately, he missed out on selection to appear in the semi-finals.

Charlie has just turned 18 and while his journey on The Voice finished on Sunday night, this national television experience has given him the confidence and the exposure required to continue his love of singing and performing.

Port Macquarie venues have already booked Charlie and he’s received rave reviews for his performances and raw talent.

For this week’s Port Mac Goss, “SCOOP” Lazarus, spoke to Charlie to find out what’s next,

Charlie, your Voice experience ended on Sunday night. Give us an insight into the whole experience.

The Voice has impacted me greatly with my confidence and the way I prepare myself for bigger opportunities related to music – and unrelated to music. It has brought me friends that I treasure dearly and a stronger level of hope of making this my job.

Now that you are not on The Voice as a contestant, do you still have any contact with your coach and the production team?

I still have a very strong connection with Kate (my coach) as well as every contestant this year. Everyone became very close and supportive of one another.

You mingled with so many other talented singers during your Voice journey. Will you keep in touch with any of them and maybe do shows with other contestants?

Yes, myself and James Van Cooper are in discussion to actually play a show in Port Macquarie!

What’s next? Any upcoming gigs we need to know about?

My black booking book is filling up with lots of gigs and enquiries. I am playing live this Sunday 19 October, back on the Rhythmboat / Port AdVenture Cruises, where I really enjoyed the last gig I did a few weeks ago on my birthday.

Your family has been on this journey all the way with you and it’s been very emotional for all of you. How important is your family to you?

My family means the world to me, they really keep me grounded, calm, and relaxed. Having them at my shows and gigs is one of my favourite feelings.

Let me put you in the red chair. From all the singers that were competing against you, who are the two you believe could win The Voice grand final.

For me, I would say either Alyssa (team Kate) or Ellaphon (team Ronan), but who knows, anything can happen.

Congratulations, Charlie. You have given Port Macquarie, your home town, national exposure and with your natural talent and hard work you will continue to grow as an artist. We wish you all the best with your music career.

Thanks, I really appreciate your kind words and encouragement.

By Dave ‘Scoop’ LAZARUS