See Why Teen Harrison Craig’s “Inspiring” Audition Became the Most Iconic Moment in The Voice History
Eighteen-year-old Harrison Craig from Melbourne captured the attention of everyone watching The Voice Australia, and in a way he never expected, his audition went on to become the most viewed performance in the show’s history. As he stepped on stage to tackle Josh Groban’s “Broken Vow,” few could have foreseen just how massive his impact would be. Yet the numbers speak for themselves—his appearance drew over 53 million views, a testament to the undeniable allure of his talent. This milestone moment showcased his extraordinary ability to blend youthful spirit and classical pop flair, delighting fans who were instantly hooked on his impressive range and emotive delivery.
Behind the bright lights and international acclaim lies a personal journey that hasn’t always been simple for Craig. He has struggled with a stutter, something that proved taxing during his early years, as he often faced ridicule in primary school. In spite of these obstacles, his singing voice revealed no traces of the speech challenges he experienced when talking. His smooth, honeyed vocals seemed tailor-made for a classical crossover piece like “Broken Vow,” highlighting notes that recalled seasoned performers such as Josh Groban and Andrea Bocelli. It was the perfect choice to underscore his graceful tone and make listeners everywhere take notice.
From the first few notes, the judges on The Voice were visibly taken aback by Craig’s stirring sound. Seal, one of the most renowned personalities on the panel, nearly pressed his buzzer right after hearing the opening line. The tension lingered until Craig reached the chorus, where Seal finally committed and whirled around to see who was delivering such a remarkable performance. Not to be outdone, Delta Goodrem, Joel Madden, and Ricky Martin soon joined in, each turning a chair to signify how captivated they were by Craig’s rendition. By the end of the performance, the judges all stood in ovation, signaling just how genuinely impressed they were.
Their praise continued once the music faded, with Seal emphasizing how voices like Craig’s reaffirm his passion for coaching, calling it an honor to be able to nurture his gift. Joel Madden’s endorsement was equally positive, expressing that Craig’s commanding stage presence suggested he was destined for big things. The young artist’s remarkable success didn’t stop there: later on, he also delivered a breathtaking version of “Unchained Melody,” which amassed an astounding 10 million views and became another of the show’s standout moments.
In addition to earning applause from Seal and Madden, Craig left Delta Goodrem with a strong emotional response. She remarked on how his strength, shaped by the hardships he endured, was both admirable and moving. Ricky Martin followed with compliments of his own, lauding Craig’s ability to communicate so beautifully through song. For an audience used to seeing talented individuals, his audition still stood out as one of those rarities that touched hearts. The vocal prowess, combined with his personal journey, made for a compelling story that resonated far beyond the stage’s bright lights.
All of the excitement in the room culminated in a lighthearted spat between the coaches, each hoping to recruit Craig for their own teams. Joel Madden attempted to impress by mentioning his friendship with Josh Groban, whereas Delta Goodrem countered with her connection to Groban’s longtime producer, David Foster. Nevertheless, their playful rivalry reached an end when Craig revealed his ultimate decision—he wanted Seal to mentor him through the competition. This choice proved to be a pivotal point in his trajectory on The Voice, signaling a partnership that held much promise.
After his announcement, fans eagerly revisited Craig’s now-iconic performance of “Broken Vow.” The gravity of his voice, paired with the authenticity born from his personal challenges, elevated the audition to legendary status among viewers. So many people felt compelled to watch and rewatch that it soared to over 53 million views, firmly placing it atop the list of most popular videos associated with The Voice Australia. Craig’s audition was more than just a showcase of vocal skills; it was a moment that ignited hope and awe.
While “Broken Vow” introduced audiences worldwide to Craig’s captivating voice, his subsequent performance of “Unchained Melody” resonated just as strongly. The classic tune, already beloved by many, seemed tailor-made for his rich vocals. The second wave of online support saw fans flocking to watch him pour emotion into every lyric, and before long, it racked up a staggering 10 million views. Each vocal flourish showcased how he had evolved both as a performer and a person on that big stage.
As Craig advanced in the show, it became clear that his stutter no longer overshadowed his ambitions. Instead, it served as an inspiration to others facing their own battles. His transformation from a reserved teen to a confident stage presence was nothing short of remarkable, and each week he reinforced the idea that dedication and self-belief could break barriers. Viewers connected deeply with that message, further fueling his popularity and solidifying his place as a top contender in the competition.
Over time, Craig’s name became synonymous with some of The Voice Australia’s most unforgettable moments. His trajectory emphasized not only technical skill but also the courage it took to stand before the world and lay his vulnerabilities bare. Fans and critics alike agreed that watching him triumph over personal hurdles, while delivering jaw-dropping vocals, was an experience that transcended the usual TV talent show. In the years since, many have continued to revisit his performances as proof that perseverance and talent can create something magical.
