Jessica Mauboy

The vision of Jessica Mauboy, braving the heat and dust of the Australian Idol audition set in Darwin will forever be a special moment in Idol history. A vision, of course, which is second to her triumphs witnessed by millions during the hotly contested 2006 series.

Throughout the record-rating fourth series of the eminent reality television show, 17 year old Jessica effortlessly created new and enduring moments with each commended performance. With such a tough competition this year, Jessica could be excused for feeling daunted, but the powerful soul specialist took the experience in her stride with the ultimate prize set firmly in her sight - a recording contract with Sony BMG and the ability to realize her lifelong dreams.

Born in Darwin, NT, the beautiful teen can thank her indigenous mother and Indonesian father for her exotic looks, but it's her famed crystal-clear voice that really caught the attention of the nation and prompted judge and talented diva Marcia Hines to tell Jessica, "I think that you happen to be one of the most naturally blessed singers I've ever heard".

Jessica is no stranger to such accolades. At the tender age of 14, Jessica's talents were exposed through the Telstra Road to Tamworth at the 2004 Telstra Country Music Festival. Winning her heat and traveling to Sydney to perform, Jessica became the competition's first and youngest winner - a massive boost to the hopeful singer's confidence and a tribute to her acclaimed craft.

Singing throughout her childhood ensured the charismatic songstress developed her talents early in life and alluded to her fate as a professional singer. From an early age, her grandmother involved Jessica in the local church choir and by living in the 'noisiest house on the block', Jessica was continually exposed to music through the singing of her mother, the guitar-playing of her father and her whole family's overall passion for music.

Having just stepped out of a competition of the magnitude of Australian Idol, Jessica's new focus is the success of her debut album titled 'The Journey' - a souvenir CD/DVD package that features her complete Australian Idol journey from Top 12 to Final 2. This of course is coupled with the completion of her schooling and the recording of her highly anticipated studio album.

The past year has established Jessica as a celebrated artist with soul, integrity and a wonderfully harmonious pop sensibility. The nation watched with enthusiasm as Jessica grew and matured from the shy Darwin school girl to the enigmatic performer she is today.

Jessica's latest news is that she has joined the fabulous Young Divas. Together they deliver mind blowing vocals – showcasing all of their incredible talent. They released a smash hit single, followed by an album towards the end of 2007.

Apart from that – Jess is SO excited to be starting work on her own solo album. Stay tuned!