THORNSIDE’S Asher Iyer said he is firmly behind fellow Redlands performer Harlan Goode ahead of the Australian Idol Grand Finale, describing the local singer as “freakishly talented” and capable of taking out the title.
The 17-year-old, who made it into the Top 21 this season, said he would be watching closely as Goode took on Kalani Artis and Kesha Oayda for the crown.
“I’m backing Harlan all the way,” Asher said.
“All three of them are amazingly talented — but Harlan’s my age, he’s from the Redlands and we really bonded on the show.
“Watching him live gives you goosebumps.”
Asher said the finale was shaping as a tight contest with each finalist bringing something different to the stage.
“All three of them have so many people backing them and they’re all talented for different reasons,” he said.
He also brushed off recent attention around Goode’s tongue-in-cheek “Deadlands” comment, saying it had been taken too seriously.
“He was just joking around,” Asher said.
“When I saw that, I laughed. A lot of young people in the Redlands have heard that term before — it’s just a joke.
“I don’t think people realised it was said in that way.”
While his own Idol journey ended earlier in the competition, Asher said the experience had given him confidence and clarity moving forward.
“It gave me a lot of experience in the industry and I was grateful that I got out on a high,” he said.
“My last performance was probably my best, and I’m proud of how I grew on the show.”
Now back home in the Redlands, the teen said he was focused on continuing his music career — but for now, all eyes were on the grand finale.
“I’m rooting for Harlan,” he said.
For a full interview with Asher, pick up a copy of next week’s Local Redland Bayside News.
