Cody Bell was 18 when he auditioned for Australia’s Got Talent and made it all the way to the semi-finals. Three years on, he’s working on his own album, he tells Charlene Macaulay…
When did you discover your love of singing?
At the age of 11. I was in grade 6 and I thought it would be a good kind of joke to audition for the band as a singer and I got the lead singing role.
From that point on, I realised music was all I ever really wanted to do.
Tell me about auditioning for Australia’s Got Talent in 2012. What was the experience like?
Steve Jaz (Universal School of Music managing director) was contacted by one of the producers after hearing a song I had sung that was written by one of our other students. It was pretty surreal.
I thought, a producer called and wanted me to go on his show. I thought it worked the other way around.
It was very eye-opening as to what reality TV’s like. It’s an interesting process. It was really exciting to have that little taste of fame, having people come up to you in the street and ask for your autograph and photo – I could get used to that! It confirmed to me that this is what my career needs to be.
What are you up to now?
I’m teaching vocals and basic piano at the Universal School of Music in Point Cook and studying for my bachelor of music at Victoria University. I’m also in the process of working on an album.
I’m writing down lyrics and going through chord charts and trying to figure out what kind of content I want to put on it. At the moment I’m really going for that soul, Motown, blues kind of vibe.
You’re also a judge for the Universal School of Music’s Rising Star competition. How does it feel to be on the other side?
It’s a big difference. It’s been really good to have that kind of leadership role, and I feel I have a lot to offer young singers coming through.
What’s it like performing on stage? Do you get stage fright?
Not any more. There’s a sense of control. Things may not be going the best in life, but as soon as I get up there, I’m in complete control of what I’m doing.
Who are your favourite singers and musicians?
I’d have to say Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles, Emily King. A lot of the music I listen to isn’t mainstream music. I’m an old soul.
One of my favourite songs to sing is Georgia on my mind, by Ray Charles.
