A LAKE Macquarie teenager has stunned television audiences across the nation with a powerful performance on the Channel Seven talent show The X Factor.
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Codi Kaye couldn't wipe the smile off her face as she received a standing ovation from the crowd and the four judges for her rendition of Carrie Underwood's Before He Cheats.
The 17-year-old, real name Codi Pollock, said she was nervous.
"The adrenaline kicked in once I started and I just went for it," she said.
The judges praised Codi's performance, but one comment in particular resonated with the young singer-songwriter.
"[Judge] Redfoo said I was one of the best in the under-25s girls' category so far, so that really boosted my confidence and made me look forward to the next round," she said.
Codi was motivated to audition for The X Factor after she uploaded songs on YouTube, which received a great response.
She has since gained a large following, with almost 38,000 subscribers on YouTube and more than a million hits on her videos.
"People I didn't know were encouraging me to get up and have a go, and it was great to see their faith in me reciprocated by the judges," Codi said.
The most rewarding aspect of Codi's internet fame is hearing strangers tell her how much her songs have helped them through tough times.
"I write a lot of songs about social issues, issues that can be hard to talk about," she said.
Codi's goal is to get her music into the public arena and make a career out of it.
But for now, the Eleebana teen is taking it one step at a time.
"I'm looking forward to impressing the judges in the next round," she said.