The Voice Australia has long been known for delivering unforgettable moments during its Blind Auditions, where raw talent alone determines whether a contestant advances. One such electrifying moment came when Shanae Watson stepped onto the stage to perform Chandelier by Sia. Taking on a song renowned for its emotional intensity and demanding vocal range is no small feat, yet Shanae delivered a performance that resonated deeply with both the coaches and the audience.
The Challenge of “Chandelier”
Originally released in 2014, “Chandelier” quickly became one of Sia’s signature hits. The song is famous for its soaring high notes, emotional vulnerability, and dramatic vocal runs. It requires not only technical precision but also an ability to convey deep emotion. Many artists hesitate to attempt it on live television because of the risks involved—one missed note can undermine the entire performance.
For Shanae Watson, choosing “Chandelier” was a bold statement. From the very first note, it was clear that she was not intimidated by the song’s complexity. Instead, she embraced it, delivering the opening lines with a controlled softness that gradually built into a powerful crescendo. Her approach showed both strategic restraint and confidence.
A Captivating Stage Presence
The Blind Auditions format of The Voice Australia adds an extra layer of tension. Contestants perform while the coaches’ chairs are turned away, meaning they must rely solely on their voice to make an impression. There are no visual cues to sway the judges—only vocal performance matters.
Shanae’s stage presence, even without the coaches facing her, was palpable. Her posture was grounded and focused, and her emotional delivery felt authentic rather than theatrical. She allowed the song’s narrative—centered on vulnerability and reckless abandon—to shine through her interpretation. The audience could feel the intensity as she climbed toward the iconic chorus.
When she reached the powerful “I’m gonna swing from the chandelier” refrain, her voice soared with remarkable clarity and strength. She demonstrated impressive breath control and vocal agility, navigating the song’s leaps without sounding strained. It was the kind of moment that compels coaches to hit their buttons.
The Coaches’ Reaction
As the performance unfolded, anticipation filled the studio. Would the coaches turn? With a song as demanding as “Chandelier,” the stakes were high. When the first chair finally spun around, it marked a pivotal moment—not only validating Shanae’s risk but also electrifying the room.
The coaches praised her bravery in choosing such a challenging song. They acknowledged that “Chandelier” is often considered one of the toughest contemporary pop songs to perform live. Their feedback highlighted her vocal strength, emotional resonance, and control during the climactic sections.
In typical The Voice fashion, the coaches likely engaged in friendly competition to persuade her to join their teams. They often draw on their own industry experience, offering mentorship, performance opportunities, and artistic development. For Shanae, the positive reception affirmed that her bold song choice had paid off.
Emotional Connection
Beyond technical ability, what set Shanae Watson’s audition apart was her emotional connection to the material. “Chandelier” explores themes of escapism, inner turmoil, and vulnerability. Successfully performing it requires more than hitting high notes—it demands sincerity.
Shanae conveyed a sense of lived experience through her phrasing and dynamics. She softened certain lines to create intimacy and then expanded into powerful belts during the chorus. This dynamic contrast gave the performance texture and authenticity. It allowed listeners to feel the highs and lows embedded within the lyrics.
Many viewers of The Voice Australia appreciate when contestants make a well-known song their own. While staying true to Sia’s original spirit, Shanae introduced subtle stylistic touches that reflected her individuality. This balance between homage and originality is often what distinguishes memorable auditions from merely good ones.
Technical Excellence
From a technical standpoint, Shanae’s control over pitch and tone was impressive. “Chandelier” demands strong head voice transitions and sustained high notes. She managed these elements with composure, demonstrating vocal training and discipline.
Her breathing technique was particularly noteworthy. The song’s structure leaves little room for error, with rapid transitions between verses and chorus. Shanae maintained stability throughout, avoiding the breathlessness that can derail live performances. This steadiness contributed to the overall polish of her audition.
Additionally, her articulation ensured that the lyrics remained clear despite the song’s intensity. Clear diction is often overlooked in high-energy performances, but Shanae preserved the narrative integrity of the song.
Audience Impact
The Blind Auditions are not only about impressing coaches but also about capturing the hearts of viewers at home. Performances that generate emotional responses often go viral, shared across social media platforms and discussed widely. Shanae Watson’s rendition of “Chandelier” had all the elements of a standout audition: risk, skill, and emotional authenticity.
Audience reactions likely included gasps during the high notes and cheers as the coaches turned. Such moments create lasting impressions and can define a contestant’s journey on the show. For many aspiring singers watching, her audition served as inspiration—proof that courage and preparation can lead to extraordinary opportunities.
The Broader Significance
Shanae Watson’s performance also underscores the enduring appeal of The Voice Australia as a platform for emerging artists. The Blind Auditions emphasize talent over image, allowing voices like Shanae’s to shine based purely on merit. This format levels the playing field and reinforces the idea that music transcends superficial judgments.
By choosing a song from a fellow Australian artist like Sia, Shanae also paid subtle tribute to the country’s rich musical heritage. Sia’s global success has inspired countless performers, and tackling one of her biggest hits on a national stage carries symbolic weight.
A Memorable Moment
In the landscape of reality television, certain auditions linger in collective memory. Shanae Watson’s interpretation of “Chandelier” stands as one of those moments—an instance where preparation met opportunity. Her fearless approach, technical command, and emotional sincerity combined to create a performance that captured attention and admiration.
The Blind Auditions are designed to reveal hidden gems, and Shanae’s rendition did exactly that. Whether or not viewers were already familiar with her name, they were unlikely to forget it after such a compelling showcase.
Ultimately, Shanae Watson’s performance of “Chandelier” on The Voice Australia exemplified what makes the show compelling: the courage to take risks, the discipline to master challenging material, and the authenticity to move an audience. It was more than just a cover of a popular song—it was a declaration of artistic identity and potential.
