Fil-Aussie ‘X Factor’ champ: I’d love to perform in PH

CYRUS in action

“My job now as an artist is to reach out to as many different people as possible,” “The X Factor Australia” champ Cyrus Villanueva tells the Inquirer in an e-mail interview.

It was clear early on in the contest that Cyrus was well-liked: He was never part of the show’s “bottom two,” staying safe for weeks until he was declared winner of the reality tilt late last month. The handsome 19-year-old son of Filipino Jo (father) and Australian Tracey (mother), Cyrus already showed artistic promise as a kid.

A 2008 video of 12-year-old Cyrus playing the piano while singing John Farnham’s “Help” recently surfaced on YouTube. He plays the guitar in a more recent one, band mates with his vocalist dad.

On the “X Factor” stage, the fan favorite from Wollongong, New South Wales played those instruments while performing some numbers. He was the epitome of confidence and cool, his pop-R&B-influenced vocal stylings connecting with shrieking young fans. (He was, however, understandably shaken and teary-eyed during his victory performance of “Stone.”)

Throughout the show’s seventh season, Cyrus performed impassioned covers of other artists’ songs, including his mentor Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game,” which is included in his self-titled debut album.

What were the other significant parts of the contest?

The most significant moment was my performance during the “5-Chair Challenge.” After receiving the response I got from the crowd, it was the first time I realized how much I loved music and its ability to bring joy to people.

How did you feel about singing “Wicked Game”?

“Wicked Game” is such an iconic song, and prior to “The X Factor,” I never thought I’d ever be singing it! After performing it, and seeing it do so well in the charts, the song kind of became my own. Chris didn’t want me to sing it like he does, and wanted me to put my own spin on it—which turned out to be great!

Where did you grow up, and how much Filipino culture are you familiar with?

I grew up in Wollongong, which is an hour south of Sydney. I grew up surrounded by music and great food, thanks to my father. I love Filipino food, and know how important music culture is in the Philippines. Dad cooks an amazing chicken adobo—a favorite in the Villanueva household!

CYRUS wants to reach out to as many people as possible.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

My biggest musical influences are Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and Nat King Cole. Growing up listening to Dad’s music, I developed an appreciation for “old” music, which I love to listen to.

What are your plans? Are you open to doing shows in the Philippines?

I hope to tour Australia next year and release new music. It’s time to grow into the artist I want to be. I’d love to perform in the Philippines! My fan base there is growing, and I’d love to give back for all of the love and support by performing for them.

What advice can you give to aspiring talent show contestants?

If music is your passion, join a reality competition, where you’ll learn so much about yourself and grow as an artist. It’s challenging, but the rewards are endless—there’s really nothing to lose! Before the contest, I was just an ordinary student who liked to sing, but now I’m a recording artist! Sometimes, it’s incredible where your journey can take you!