Teen voice instant hit

TWEED Heads teen Siala Robson is on a fast track to fame after scoring a standing ovation and four-chair turn on last night’s episode of The Voice Australia.

The rap and R&B artist, who was living in a women’s refuge when producers came calling, performed original track Other Than You while her mum and five siblings watched from the wings.

“It’s a big risk singing an original because they have no idea what the song is – in that moment it’s whether they can feel it or not,” she said.

“I went out there thinking whatever happens, happens; I’m just going to get all my energy out there and go for it.”

Judge Kelly Rowland said “the whole feeling in the room changed as soon as you opened your mouth” while Boy George said: “You’re the most completely professional thing I’ve ever seen in blind (auditions).”

Robson, who went into the audition with the hope of working with R&B star Rowland, instead followed her gut to join Team Boy George.

“I felt so shook (when all the judges turned their chairs) and they were all staring into my soul,” Robson said.

The gender-fluid 18-yearold told TV audiences that music had been her saviour.

She previously opened up to the Bulletin about running away from home as a young teen and her subsequent battle with substance abuse.

“From a young age I was always having to physically stick up for my mum,” she said.

“It got to the point sometimes I’d be sleeping with a knife under my bed.

“I don’t think I’d be here if I didn’t have music. I feel that’s what made me strong.”

Robson will now progress to the battle rounds of the Channel 9 reality talent show.