PORT Macquarie teenager Charlie O’Derry has captured national attention as a contestant on Channel Seven’s The Voice, impressing viewers and judges alike with his heartfelt performance and down-to-earth charm.
For the 17-year-old Year 12 student at Heritage Christian School, the experience of standing on stage before four global music stars was nothing short of surreal.
“The judges were lovely,” Charlie said.
“To sing in front of Richard Marx, Mel C, Kate Miller-Heidke and Ronan Keating, people who have achieved so much in the industry, was just such a privilege.
“I felt so blessed to even get feedback from them, because you can’t buy that opportunity.”
Charlie admits he had his eyes closed when Richard Marx first turned his chair.
“I opened my eyes and saw Richard staring at me and thought ‘whoa’.
“That’s when I relaxed and just did what I normally do,” he said.
Soon after, Kate Miller-Heidke also turned, followed by Mel C and Ronan, leaving Charlie overcome with emotion.
“I started crying heaps, and then Ronan came up and gave me a hug,” Charlie said.
“It was such a surreal, crazy experience.”
When it came time to choose a coach, Charlie went with Kate Miller-Heidke.
“Kate’s an Aussie, and I felt I had more of a connection with her,” he said.
“She’s so grounded, and with her folk roots and wide experience, I knew I’d get the most out of being on her team.
“I also write folk and country music, so it just made sense.”
While many dream of international stardom, Charlie’s ambitions are refreshingly grounded.
“Honestly, I’d love to just be a well-known Australian artist,” he said.
“I don’t need to be rich or huge overseas.
“If I can make a comfortable living from music, play shows, and connect with people, that’s the dream.”
Balancing rehearsals, gigs and TV appearances with Year 12 has been no small feat, but Charlie’s family couldn’t be prouder.
His mum, Kylie, said the opportunity came at the perfect time.
“It’s a great platform for him, especially with the HSC nearly finished,” she said.
“It’s going to launch him well after school.”
Charlie already performs regularly at local venues and private events and will soon return to the stage closer to home.
Fans wanting a taste of his live music, Charlie will be performing on the Port Adventure cruise on Sunday 31 August, treating audiences to a sunset of originals and stripped-back covers from John Farnham to Guns N’ Roses.
Charlie’s next TV appearance will be on The Voice Battles Round, airing Sunday 7 September.
For the Port Macquarie teen, the journey is only just beginning and can be followed @charlieoderry.music.
By Sis HIGGINS
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