Let’s hear it for the coaches - Team George!
George is all about bringing out each of his contestants’ unique personalities and letting them shine for the stars he believes them to be
SHELDON RILEY
Pre-Voice: One of the youngest singers in the competition. The 18-year-old relocated to Sydney from Queensland for a shot at the big time.
How George has helped: George recognised a kindred spirit in fellow “drama queen” Sheldon. He’s focused on trying to pare back some of Sheldon’s performance techniques, emphasising the quality of his vocals instead.
The Result: Sheldon still can’t quite believe he’s being coached by one of his musical heroes. “Boy George is like my Beyoncé. It’s so crazy,” he says. “[When he picked me] it felt like his acceptance was everyone’s acceptance in that moment.”
CHANG PO CHING
Pre-Voice: Chang might have been born partially blind, but that’s never held him back. He’s now ready to give The Voice his all for one final shot at stardom.
How George has helped: George only ever saw Chang for what he is—a superstar in the making. He’s focused on building his confidence, picking songs that showcase Chang’s powerhouse voice.
The Result: Chang has had the space to shine. “I always really wanted to pick George, so I was stoked,” he says. “The focus wasn’t my eye and that was cool. The voice was the focus, and the heart of it all. Everything else is a part of it, but not the main part.”
LUKE ANTHONY (Eliminated May 20)
Pre-Voice: Luke has auditioned for many singing shows over the years. But this time around he feels as though he’s finally in the right headspace to succeed.
How George has helped: George picked the perfect song for Luke, with Chaka Khan’s ‘Aint Nobody.’ He wants to point Luke in the right direction and help him finetune that soulful voice.
The Result: Luke says he surprised himself by picking Boy George over his favoured mentor, Kelly. But he’s glad he did. “He made me the most uncomfortable, and I think that’s really powerful,” he says. “I wanted to challenge that. He’s iconic.”
MIKAYLA JADE (Wildcard, eliminated May 20)
Pre-Voice: Mikayla has overcome a series of obstacles, including bullying, and credits singing with helping pull her through the tough times.
How George has helped: George believes in Mikayla and after stealing her from Delta, he worked to build her confidence and refine her delicate voice.
The Result: George has managed to bring out something special in Mikayla, as referenced by her beautiful rendition of Rihanna’s ‘Shine Bright Like A Diamond.’ “He’s so nurturing, so supportive and kind,” she says. “You feel safe around him. When I was in mentoring, he embraced my story and told me to use it in my songs. He embraces his uniqueness and individuality and that’s very inspiring and empowering.”
