Community hub
0 subscribers8 pages, 0 posts
Recent from talks
All channels
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Contribute something
Welcome to the community hub built to collect knowledge and have discussions related to Isaiah Firebrace.
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Isaiah Firebrace
View on Wikipediafrom Wikipedia
Key Information
Isaiah Firebrace (born 21 November 1999) is an Australian singer who won the eighth season of The X Factor Australia in 2016. He then represented Australia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song "Don't Come Easy", where he finished ninth.[1]
Early life
[edit]One of twelve children, Firebrace was born in Portland, Victoria, and raised in Moama, New South Wales. He is an Aboriginal Australian; his father is Yorta Yorta and his mother Gunditjmara.[2] Firebrace first came to public attention when he entered the Fast Track Singing Competition in Melbourne.[3] This led to a scholarship at the David Jaanz School of Singing.[2]
Career
[edit]2016: The X Factor and debut album
[edit]Isaiah auditioned for the eighth season of The X Factor Australia, singing a cover of Adele's "Hello". Making it through to Bootcamp, he performed a cover of Alicia Keys' "If I Ain't Got You". From the live shows, he advanced to the Grand Final.[4]
On 21 November 2016, at the Grand Final, Isaiah performed Avicii's "Wake Me Up" with Jessica Mauboy, and his winner's single "It's Gotta Be You", winning the contest. His winner's single peaked at number 26 on the Australian Singles Chart. The song also charted in Denmark, Netherlands, New Zealand, and Sweden.[5]
On 9 December 2016, Isaiah released his debut studio album Isaiah. The album peaked at number 12 on the Australian Albums Chart.[5]
| The X Factor performances and results (2016) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode | Song | Original Artist | Result |
| Audition | "Hello" | Adele | Through to bootcamp |
| Bootcamp | "If I Ain't Got You" | Alicia Keys | Through to live shows |
| Live show 1 | "Lay It All on Me" | Rudimental ft. Ed Sheeran | Safe |
| Live show 2 | "Let It Be" | The Beatles | Safe |
| Live show 3 | "Happy" | Pharrell Williams | Safe |
| Live show 4 | "A Change Is Gonna Come" | Sam Cooke | Safe |
| "FourFiveSeconds" | Rihanna | ||
| Grand Final | "Halo" | Beyoncé | Winner |
| "Wake Me Up" (with Jessica Mauboy) | Avicii | ||
| "It's Gotta Be You" | Firebrace | ||
2017–present: Eurovision Song Contest and subsequent projects
[edit]._Photo_347.jpg)
Following his X-Factor win, Firebrace reported that he was interested in representing Australia in the Eurovision Song Contest, and put his name forward for possible participation in the 2017 contest.[6] On 7 March 2017, broadcaster SBS announced that they had internally selected Firebrace to represent Australia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 in Kyiv, Ukraine. His entry, "Don't Come Easy", was written by DNA Songs, who also composed Dami Im's entry "Sound of Silence".[1]
On 9 May 2017, he qualified from the first semi-final and competed in the final on 13 May, finishing in 9th place.
Throughout 2019, Firebrace completed a 55-date 'Spirit and Beyond' tour through central and regional Australia, where he made it a priority to speak with as many Aboriginal school children as possible to pass on powerful messages about working hard to achieve goals and the importance of finding a passion.[7]
In 2019, Firebrace sang the Australian National Anthem at the TAB Million Dollar Chase greyhound race[8] at Wentworth Park.
In July 2020, Firebrace released "Know Me Better". He said "This song actually means a lot to me because I finally feel like I'm starting to know myself better and I am heading in the direction I want to with my music. I've been in the studio a lot over the last three years and have experimented with lots of styles but 'Know Me Better' is a song that I'm really proud to release. I love the song, I love the production and I just can't wait to be able to show people this song".[7] Firebrace also announced that he was writing a children's book, "The Purple Platypus", which pushes a positive message for kids who feel different.[7]
In August 2020, Firebrace was revealed to be competing as the "Wizard" on the second season of The Masked Singer Australia. He was the sixth contestant eliminated, placing 7th overall.[9]
In 2022, Firebrace participated in Eurovision - Australia Decides for a chance to represent his country in the 2022 contest. He duetted with singer Evie Irie with the song "When I'm With You", ultimately finishing in 10th place.
In September 2022, Firebrace released "Come Together" with Lee Kernaghan and Mitch Tambo.[10] The song coincides with Firebrace's new children's book, also called Come Together, published on 16 November 2022.[10][11] Illustrated by Jaelyn Biumaiwai, the book was shortlisted for the 2023 CBCA Eve Pownall Award.[12]
In November 2022, Firebrace released the self-composed Christmas song "First Christmas".[13]
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]| Title | Details | Peak chart positions | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUS [5] |
NZ Heat. [14] | ||
| Isaiah |
|
12 | 5 |
Singles
[edit]As lead artist
[edit]| Title | Year | Peak chart positions | Certifications | Album | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AUS [5] |
BEL (Fl) Tip [16] |
DEN [17] |
NLD [18] |
NZ Heat. [19] |
SWE [20] | ||||||||||||||
| "It's Gotta Be You" | 2016 | 26 | —[A] | 21 | 60 | 6 | 15 | Isaiah | |||||||||||
| "Don't Come Easy" | 2017 | 69 | 47 | — | — | — | 50 | Eurovision Song Contest 2017 | |||||||||||
| "Streets of Gold"[24] | — | — | — | — | — | — | Non-album singles | ||||||||||||
| "Close to Me"[25] | 2018 | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| "Spirit"[26] | 2019 | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| "What Happened to Us"[27] | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| "Thinking About You"[28] | 2020 | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| "Know Me Better"[29][30] | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| "You"[31] | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| "Blame on Me"[32] | 2021 | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| "More Than Me"[33] | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| "When I'm With You" (with Evie Irie)[34] |
2022 | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| "Come Together" (with Lee Kernaghan and Mitch Tambo)[10] |
— | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| "First Christmas"[13] | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| "Have You Ever?"[35] | 2023 | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| "All I Can Give"[36] | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| "Balance" | 2024 | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| "—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory. | |||||||||||||||||||
As featured artist
[edit]| Song | Year | Album |
|---|---|---|
| "You're the Voice" (as part of United Voices Against Domestic Violence)[37] |
2017 | Non-album single |
Notes
[edit]Non-single album appearances
[edit]| Title | Year | Album |
|---|---|---|
| "Something Stupid" (with Jessica Mauboy) |
2017 | The Secret Daughter Season Two: Songs from the Original 7 Series[38] |
| "Don't Change" | 2018 | Countdown: Live At The Sydney Opera House[38] |
| "Don't Dream It's Over" | ||
| "Solid Rock" (with Shane Howard) | ||
| "Dont Dream It's Over" (with Stan Walker) |
2020 | Deadly Hearts: Walking Together[39] |
Awards and nominations
[edit]Country Music Awards of Australia
[edit]The Country Music Awards of Australia is an annual awards night held in January during the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Celebrating recording excellence in the Australian country music industry. They commenced in 1973.
| Year | Nominee / work | Award | Result | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | "Come Together" (with Lee Kernaghan and Mitch Tambo) | Vocal Collaboration of the Year | Nominated | [40] |
| Heritage Song of the Year | Nominated |
References
[edit]- ^ a b Escudero, Victor M. (7 March 2017). "Isaiah is Australia's artist for Kyiv!". eurovision.tv. European Broadcasting Union. Retrieved 7 March 2017.
- ^ a b Durham, Penny (6 May 2017). "Q&A: Isaiah Firebrace, singer, 17". The Australian. Retrieved 11 May 2017.
- ^ "X Factor favourite Isaiah Firebrace living the dream". Bendigo Advertiser. Bendigo. 4 November 2016. Retrieved 11 May 2017.
- ^ "The X Factor Australia: Isaiah Firebrace takes out grand final". The Sydney Morning Herald. 22 November 2016. Retrieved 20 May 2017.
- ^ a b c d Peaks in Australia:
- All except noted: "australian-charts.com – Discography Isaiah". Hung Medien. Retrieved 11 May 2017.
- "Don't Come Easy": "ARIA Chart Watch #421". auspOp. 20 May 2017. Archived from the original on 29 August 2017. Retrieved 20 May 2017.
- ^ Granger, Anthony (29 November 2016). "Australia: Isaiah Firebrace Puts Name Forward For Eurovision 2017". Eurovoix.com. Retrieved 1 December 2016.
- ^ a b c "Isaiah Firebrace drops radio-ready single "Know Me Better"". The Music Network. 29 July 2020. Retrieved 1 August 2020.
- ^ "TAB Million Dollar Chase – TAB Million Dollar Chase Hub – MDC Event Information". The Dogs. Retrieved 23 October 2019.[permanent dead link]
- ^ Whitehead, Mat (26 August 2020). "Isaiah Firebrace Couldn't Tell His Dad He Was On The Masked Singer". 10 Play. ViacomCBS ANZ. Retrieved 26 August 2020.
- ^ a b c "Isaiah Firebrace, Mitch Tambo and Lee Kernaghan release new song "Come Together"". Aussie Vision. 16 September 2022. Retrieved 16 September 2022.
- ^ "Come Together". HardieGrant. Retrieved 29 March 2023.
- ^ "CBCA Awards 2023 shortlists announced". Books+Publishing. 28 March 2023. Retrieved 29 March 2023.
- ^ a b "Isaiah Released New Single "First Christmas"!". My Euro Freaks. 20 November 2022. Retrieved 26 December 2022.
- ^ "NZ Heatseekers Albums Chart". Recorded Music NZ. 19 December 2016. Retrieved 30 January 2017.
- ^ "Isaiah by Isaiah". iTunes Australia (Apple). Retrieved 27 November 2016.
- ^ a b "ultratop.be – Discografie Isaiah". Hung Medien. Retrieved 3 June 2017.
- ^ "danishcharts.dk – Discography Isaiah". Hung Medien. Retrieved 11 May 2017.
- ^ "dutchcharts.nl – Discografie Isaiah". Hung Medien. Retrieved 11 May 2017.
- ^ "NZ Heatseekers Singles Chart". Recorded Music NZ. 5 December 2016. Retrieved 30 January 2017.
- ^ "swedishcharts.com – Discography Isaiah". Hung Medien. Retrieved 11 May 2017.
- ^ "ARIA Charts – Accreditations – 2018 Singles". ARIA. 2018. Retrieved 17 June 2018.
- ^ "CERTIFICERINGER Danish single certifications". IFPI Denmark. p. 104. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
- ^ "Sverigetopplistan – Sveriges Officiella Topplista" (Enter "Isaiah" in the search bar, click on "Visa" below "It's Gotta Be You"). Sverigetopplistan. Retrieved 7 October 2018.
- ^ "Streets of Gold – Single by Isaiah on Apple Music". iTunes Store. 28 July 2017. Retrieved 28 July 2017.
- ^ "Close to Me by Isaiah on Apple Music". Apple Music. 5 October 2018. Retrieved 7 October 2018.
- ^ "Spirit by Isaiah on Apple Music". Apple Music. 5 July 2019. Retrieved 5 July 2019.
- ^ "What Happened to Us on Apple Music". Apple Music. 15 November 2019. Retrieved 24 November 2019.
- ^ "Thinking About You – Single by Isaiah". Apple Music. 17 January 2020. Retrieved 17 January 2020.
- ^ "Know Me Better on Apple Music". Apple Music. 24 July 2020. Retrieved 24 July 2020.
- ^ "Singles to Radio". The Music Network. 24 July 2020. Retrieved 24 July 2020.
- ^ "You – Single by Isaiah Firebrace on Apple Music". Apple Music. 11 December 2020. Retrieved 4 January 2021.
- ^ "Blame on Me – Single by Isaiah Firebrace". Apple Music. 4 June 2021. Retrieved 4 June 2021.
- ^ "More Than Me – Single by Isaiah Firebrace". Apple Music. 12 November 2021. Retrieved 12 November 2021.
- ^ "Evie Irie joins Isaiah Firebrace on the 'Eurovision – Australia Decides' stage". Special Broadcasting Service. 22 January 2022. Retrieved 24 January 2022.
- ^ "New music this week (part 2): Songs from Marco Mengoni, Loïc Nottet, Eldar and more". Wiwibloggs. 28 May 2023. Retrieved 31 May 2023.
- ^ "ALL I CAN GIVE - OUT NOW". Facebook. 29 September 2023. Retrieved 1 October 2023.
- ^ "You're the Voice (single)". Apple Music. 30 May 2017. Retrieved 23 January 2021.
- ^ a b "Secret Daughter Season Two, The – Otv (Songs From The Original TV Series)". JB Hi-Fi. Retrieved 29 September 2017.
- ^ "VA Deadly Hearts 3". JBHiFi. Retrieved 1 November 2020.
- ^ "Tamworth Toyota Golden Guitar Award Nominees Announced". The Music. 22 November 2022. Retrieved 23 November 2022.
External links
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Isaiah Firebrace.
| International | |
|---|---|
| National | |
| Artists | |
Isaiah Firebrace
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Early life
Family and heritage
Isaiah Firebrace was born on 21 November 1999 in Portland, Victoria, Australia, on Gunditjmara Country, and spent much of his childhood in the twin towns of Echuca and Moama on the Victoria-New South Wales border.[12][13] He was raised primarily in Moama, New South Wales, where he grew up on the banks of the Murray River amid the challenges common to many Aboriginal families.[9][2] Firebrace is one of twelve children, with seven siblings from his parents' previous relationships and four from their marriage, including his older brother Jamara and sisters Lawannah and Jannah.[14][13] His family holds deep Aboriginal Australian heritage, with his father Wayne identifying as Yorta Yorta and his mother Donna as Gunditjmara, a matriarchal nation whose totem is the yellow-tailed black cockatoo, known in their language as "wilarn."[15][9] Firebrace's early years were marked by significant family challenges, including his parents' separation around age six, after which he and his brother moved with their father to Moama while his mother and three sisters relocated to Tasmania.[13][2] He reconnected with his mother at around age 11 or 12, forging an unbreakable bond that has since deepened their relationship, with Donna sharing Gunditjmara cultural knowledge and encouraging resilience tied to their ancestral history.[15] This heritage forms a core part of Firebrace's identity, influencing his worldview and commitment to First Nations advocacy.Musical beginnings
Firebrace's musical journey began in his early childhood in the small town of Moama on the New South Wales-Victoria border, where he started singing at church from the age of three, often practicing loudly enough to draw complaints from neighbors.[16] His father, Wayne, played a pivotal role in nurturing this talent, introducing him to blues and rock music and forming a family band in which Firebrace sang or played keys, with his father on guitar and brother on drums.[17] Despite growing up in a household where money was tight and material possessions were limited, his family encouraged his musical pursuits, with his sister introducing him to contemporary artists that shaped his sound.[2] As a young boy of Yorta Yorta and Gunditjmara heritage, Firebrace honed his vocal abilities through local performances and competitions in his community, winning several small events and using the modest prizes—often $200 to $300—to help support his family financially.[2] His baritone voice and emotive delivery caught attention during these early outings, blending soulful runs inspired by artists like Beyoncé's "Halo," which he first heard at age nine and described as a revelation for its vocal power, and Bruno Mars' "When I Was Your Man," which taught him to connect emotionally through song.[18] He also drew from blues influences, such as John Fogerty's "Blue Boy," to develop harmonizing techniques that became hallmarks of his style.[18] Firebrace's breakthrough pre-fame opportunity came in his mid-teens when he participated in the Fast Track Singing Competition in Melbourne, performing with a maturity that impressed judges and audiences alike.[19] This led directly to a scholarship at the David Jaanz School of Singing, offered by the school's founder after witnessing his performance, providing formal training that refined his raw talent amid the challenges of his rural upbringing.[1]Career
2016: The X Factor Australia and debut album
In 2016, at the age of 16, Isaiah Firebrace auditioned for the eighth season of The X Factor Australia with a soulful rendition of Adele's "Hello," earning praise from the judges for his vocal control and emotional depth.[20] Placed in the 14–21s category and mentored by guest judge Adam Lambert, Firebrace advanced through bootcamp and home visits, where he performed Alicia Keys' "If I Ain't Got You," showcasing his ability to infuse pop and soul with personal resonance.[21] Throughout the live shows, he delivered standout performances, including Beyoncé's "Halo" and The Beatles' "Let It Be," which highlighted his versatility and stage presence, consistently topping viewer votes and positioning him as a frontrunner.[22] On November 21, 2016—coinciding with his 17th birthday—Firebrace was crowned the season's winner, defeating runner-up Davey Woder and securing a recording contract with Sony Music Australia.[23] Following his victory, Firebrace released his debut single, "It's Gotta Be You," written and produced by Australian duo DNA, on the same day as the finale.[21] The pop ballad, featuring heartfelt lyrics about destiny and love, debuted and peaked at number 26 on the ARIA Singles Chart in late November 2016, marking his entry into commercial music and demonstrating his appeal to a broad Australian audience.[21] Firebrace's self-titled debut album, Isaiah, followed on December 9, 2016, just weeks after his X Factor win.[20] Recorded in an intensive session spanning just over a week in Sydney, the album blended original material with re-recorded versions of his most memorable X Factor performances, produced by a team including DNA and other industry collaborators to capture his raw vocal talent.[20] It peaked at number 12 on the ARIA Albums Chart upon release, reflecting strong initial sales driven by his recent fame.[22] The tracklist emphasized soulful covers and pop tracks, including:- "It's Gotta Be You"
- "Hello" (Adele cover)
- "If I Ain't Got You" (Alicia Keys cover)
- "Lay It All on Me" (Rudimental cover)
- "Let It Be" (The Beatles cover)
- "Halo" (Beyoncé cover)
- "A Change Is Gonna Come" (Sam Cooke cover)
- "You Don't Know"
- "Rise Up" (Andra Day cover)
- "The Edge of Glory" (Lady Gaga cover)
2017: Eurovision Song Contest representation
Following his victory on The X Factor Australia in 2016, Isaiah Firebrace was internally selected by the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) to represent Australia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 in Kyiv, Ukraine. At age 17, he performed the ballad "Don't Come Easy," written by Australian songwriters David Musumeci, Anthony Egizii, and Michael Angelo. The song was announced on 7 March 2017 and released as his second single, emphasizing themes of perseverance and emotional vulnerability.[24][25] Firebrace qualified from the first semi-final on 9 May, placing sixth with 160 points, before advancing to the grand final on 13 May. In the final, he delivered a piano-led performance as the 14th act, earning 173 points to finish ninth overall—Australia's third consecutive top-10 result since debuting in 2015. The strong jury vote (fourth place) contrasted with a lower televote ranking, partly attributed to a stage disruption by a streaker during the broadcast, which drew significant media commentary.[4][26] "Don't Come Easy" debuted at number 69 on the ARIA Singles Chart, marking a modest domestic peak despite international exposure to over 200 million viewers. Post-contest media coverage highlighted Firebrace's vocal prowess and the song's inspirational lyrics, amplifying his visibility as a First Nations artist of Yorta Yorta and Gunditjmara heritage. This global platform underscored his role in promoting Indigenous Australian talent, inspiring youth across communities and reinforcing cultural representation in mainstream entertainment.[27][26][28]2018–2020: Tours, television, and early independent releases
Following his representation of Australia at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2017, Isaiah Firebrace focused on building his live performance presence through extensive touring across the country. In 2019, he embarked on the 55-date "Spirit and Beyond" national tour, traveling through central and regional Australia to perform in smaller venues and connect directly with audiences.[29][30] The tour emphasized his commitment to Indigenous communities, including workshops and discussions with Aboriginal school children about resilience and cultural identity.[31] Additionally, Firebrace performed the Australian national anthem at high-profile events, such as the TAB Million Dollar Chase greyhound race final at Wentworth Park in Sydney. In 2020, Firebrace expanded his television visibility by participating in the second season of The Masked Singer Australia, where he competed under the guise of the "Wizard" costume. His performances showcased his versatile vocals, including renditions of songs like Katy Perry's "Firework," before he was unmasked and eliminated in the seventh position.[32][33] This appearance highlighted his ongoing appeal in mainstream entertainment, drawing on his emotive singing style to captivate viewers. Firebrace also began exploring more personal themes in his music during this period with early independent-leaning releases. His single "You," released on December 11, 2020, marked a personal reflection on self-discovery after years in the industry. His single "Know Me Better," released on July 24, 2020, is a pop ballad that delves into self-reflection and personal growth, inspired by his own experiences of navigating distractions and rediscovering his identity.[34][29] The track's introspective lyrics and resonant vocals marked a shift toward more authentic storytelling, setting the stage for his evolving artistry beyond major label constraints.[35]2021–2025: Recent music, books, and performances
In 2021, Firebrace continued his musical output with the release of the single "More Than Me" in November, a track emphasizing gratitude and growth, released by Sony Music.[36] By 2022, Firebrace competed in Eurovision - Australia Decides with the duet "When I'm With You" featuring Evie Irie, placing 10th.[37] He released "Come Together" in September, a collaboration with country artists Lee Kernaghan and Mitch Tambo that celebrated unity and First Nations culture. The track was performed live at the Australian Open in January 2023, highlighting its communal message during a high-profile event.[38] In November, he debuted his self-written holiday single "First Christmas," evoking themes of family and new beginnings, which resonated personally as Firebrace navigated life changes including impending fatherhood.[39][40] Firebrace's 2023 output included three singles under Dreamtime Fly Music: "Have You Ever?" in May, exploring introspection and relationships; "Burn" in June, a soulful track co-written with collaborators David Taafua and Jeremy Beamish; and "All I Can Give" in September, which delved into themes of unconditional love and vulnerability, reflecting his evolving family life.[41][42][43] That August, he performed a solo concert at Lizotte's in Newcastle, sharing songs from his career and connecting with audiences through his Yorta Yorta heritage.[44] In 2024, Firebrace released "BALANCE" in October, a track produced with Vic Cuccia that addressed personal equilibrium amid career and family demands, further integrating autobiographical elements into his pop-soul sound.[45] His music during this era increasingly wove in family motifs, inspired by his marriage and the birth of his son in mid-2025, as shared in public updates.[46] In 2025, Firebrace headlined the Grounded Festival in July and performed at the IGA Awards of Excellence.[47] By early 2025, Firebrace's 2017 Eurovision entry "Don't Come Easy" was featured in the fan-voted ESC250 event, underscoring his lasting impact in the Eurovision community through public participation.[48]Personal life
Relationships and family
Firebrace became engaged to his long-term partner, Stephanie Mendez, on September 21, 2024.[49] The couple exchanged vows later that year, marking a significant milestone in their relationship following the engagement announcement.[49] On April 12, 2025, Firebrace and Mendez welcomed their first child, son Orlando Firebrace, who was born at 6:00 p.m. weighing 3.1 kg.[50] The family has shared glimpses of their early parenthood experiences through social media, including moments of joy with the newborn. Firebrace has described fatherhood as a profound blessing that ushers in a new chapter, enhancing his public persona as a devoted family man alongside his musical endeavors.[46] This personal growth echoes the strong familial support he received during his childhood in regional New South Wales.Legal issues
On August 23, 2023, Isaiah Firebrace was charged with domestic violence-related common assault following an alleged incident involving his then-girlfriend, Stephanie Mendez, at The Star casino in Sydney on August 18, 2023.[51] He pleaded not guilty to the charge during his appearance at Downing Centre Local Court on the same day, with his legal team seeking to have the matter addressed under the Mental Health Act.[52] Mendez faced a reciprocal charge of domestic violence-related common assault against Firebrace, to which she pleaded guilty on August 23, 2023, before it was dismissed on mental health grounds.[53] On December 20, 2023, following the presentation of CCTV footage by his lawyer—which provided a different perspective on the events and contradicted the severity of police allegations—the charges against Firebrace were addressed under Section 14 of the Mental Health (Forensic Provisions) Act 1990 due to his diagnosis of PTSD related to his upbringing. He was required to undergo a 12-month mental health treatment plan in Melbourne.[54] As part of the proceedings, mutual apprehended domestic violence orders (AVOs) were imposed on both parties, prohibiting contact for 12 hours after consuming alcohol or drugs and restricting their proximity for a 2-year period.[49] In January 2024, Firebrace publicly expressed support for Mendez via an Instagram post, describing her as his "rock" and emphasizing their commitment to moving forward together.[55] The couple later became engaged in 2024, following the resolution of the legal matters.[49]Other ventures
Children's literature
Isaiah Firebrace entered the realm of children's literature with his debut picture book, Come Together: Things Every Aussie Kid Should Know about the First Peoples, published on November 16, 2022, by Hardie Grant Explore.[10] Illustrated by Jaelyn Biumaiwai, the book introduces young readers aged 5 and up to 20 essential aspects of First Nations cultures, emphasizing themes of unity and Indigenous stories drawn from Firebrace's Yorta Yorta and Gunditjmara heritage.[10] Inspired by the collaborative song "Come Together" and Firebrace's petition to the Australian Government advocating for Indigenous recognition, it serves as an accessible resource for fostering cultural understanding among children.[10] The book quickly achieved best-seller status in Australian children's categories and was shortlisted for the 2023 Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Book of the Year in the Eve Pownall Information Book category.[56][10] Firebrace followed this success with Come Together Again: A Celebration of First Nations Music, Song and Dance, released on October 29, 2024, also by Hardie Grant Explore and illustrated by Jaelyn Biumaiwai.[11] Aimed at children aged 5 and up, the book explores the vital role of music, song, and dance in over 65,000 years of First Nations history, highlighting how these elements strengthen family bonds and community connections across diverse Indigenous traditions.[11] It builds on the themes of the first book by delving into cultural practices that promote resilience and shared storytelling.[11] Both books have played a significant role in disseminating Indigenous culture to young Australian readers, achieving notable sales and recognition, including Come Together Again's inclusion in the 2025 CBCA Notables list.[57][58] Through vivid illustrations and Firebrace's personal narratives, they encourage empathy and education about First Nations contributions, making complex cultural concepts engaging and relatable for children.[10][11]Advocacy and cultural contributions
Firebrace has actively engaged with remote Indigenous communities through music tours, using his platform to share First Nations culture via performances and storytelling. In 2019, he undertook a national tour that introduced him to several remote Indigenous communities, where he connected with locals by incorporating traditional elements into his shows and learning about their experiences firsthand, an encounter he described as profoundly impactful and transformative for his understanding of community resilience.[59] This tour, which extended into regional areas in 2020 over five months, allowed him to collaborate on country with Indigenous artists and elders, fostering cultural exchange through shared music sessions that highlighted storytelling traditions.[60] By 2022, these experiences continued to influence his work, as he reflected on them in interviews while advocating for greater recognition of Indigenous narratives in broader Australian society.[59] Leveraging his public profile as a First Nations artist, Firebrace has raised awareness on key Indigenous issues, including education and cultural preservation, positioning his children's books as accessible tools to bridge knowledge gaps in schools. In 2020, he launched a petition that amassed over 290,000 signatures by 2021, calling for mandatory teaching of Aboriginal history in all primary and secondary schools to instill respect and value for First Nations peoples.[61] He personally delivered the petition to Parliament House, emphasizing how such education could empower Indigenous youth and promote national reconciliation.[61] Building on this, in 2022, Firebrace advocated for integrating First Nations languages into school curricula alongside truthful historical contexts, arguing that it would boost attendance rates and create employment pathways for Indigenous communities.[62] His books serve as supplementary educational resources, designed to introduce young readers to cultural elements in an engaging way without relying solely on formal classroom settings.[63] Firebrace's performances at cultural events and collaborations have consistently spotlighted his Yorta Yorta and Gunditjmara heritage, blending contemporary music with traditional practices to celebrate First Nations identity. He regularly infuses his concerts with Indigenous dance, didgeridoo, and language elements, creating immersive experiences that educate audiences on cultural significance.[64] Notable appearances include a 2023 Survival Day performance of the Yolŋu song "Djapana" at the Sydney Opera House, which honored Indigenous survival and sovereignty through a powerful live rendition. In collaborations, such as his work with Mununjali and Fijian artist Jaelyn Biumaiwai, Firebrace has explored ceremonial history and instruments, promoting cross-cultural dialogue via music and narrative.[65] Up to 2025, this commitment persists, with scheduled performances at events like NAIDOC in the City, where he delivers both pop and culturally rooted sets to advocate for First Nations education and visibility.[66]Discography
Studio albums
Firebrace's debut studio album, titled Isaiah, was released on 9 December 2016 through Sony Music Australia.[20] Recorded in just over a week following his win on The X Factor Australia, the album was produced in collaboration with the show's production team, featuring re-recorded versions of performances from the competition alongside his winner's single.[20] The record primarily consists of soulful covers of classic and contemporary pop songs, emphasizing Firebrace's vocal range and emotional delivery on themes of love, resilience, and introspection.[67] The album's tracklist includes:- "It's Gotta Be You" (3:13)
- "Hello" (5:09)
- "If I Ain't Got You" (3:26)
- "Lay It All on Me" (3:38)
- "Let It Be" (4:08)
- "Happy" (3:27)
- "No Woman, No Cry" (4:23)
- "FourFiveSeconds" (2:50)
- "A Change Is Gonna Come" (3:08)
- "Halo" (4:18)[67]
Singles
Firebrace's music career began with the release of his debut single "It's Gotta Be You" in November 2016, following his win on The X Factor Australia; the track peaked at number 26 on the ARIA Singles Chart and was later certified platinum in Australia for sales exceeding 70,000 units.[21][68] His follow-up single, "Don't Come Easy," released in March 2017 as Australia's entry for the Eurovision Song Contest, reached number 69 on the ARIA Singles Chart.[27] In July 2017, he released "Streets of Gold," an original track marking his shift toward songwriting.[69] In November 2019, Firebrace released "What Happened to Us," a reflective single about personal relationships. After a period focused on other projects, he returned with "Know Me Better" in July 2020, a self-reflective track co-written with Sydney production duo DNA, emphasizing personal growth and independence in his artistry. In 2021, he issued "More Than Me," followed in 2022 by "When I'm With You" (a duet with Evie Irie for Eurovision - Australia Decides), "First Christmas," and a collaboration with country artists Lee Kernaghan and Mitch Tambo on "Come Together" in September, a song promoting cultural unity and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, inspired by Firebrace's advocacy for First Nations recognition.[29] Firebrace released a trio of singles in 2023: "Have You Ever?" in March, exploring themes of love and introspection; "Burn" in August, a high-energy pop track; and "All I Can Give" in September, which highlights emotional vulnerability. His releases continued with "BALANCE" in 2024 and "Lone Soldier" in February 2025, both continuing his evolution toward mature, introspective songwriting. None of these later releases achieved notable positions on the ARIA Singles Chart, though they have garnered attention through streaming platforms and live performances.[8][70]| Single | Year | ARIA Peak | Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| "It's Gotta Be You" | 2016 | 26 | Platinum (Australia) |
| "Don't Come Easy" | 2017 | 69 | — |
| "Streets of Gold" | 2017 | — | — |
| "What Happened to Us" | 2019 | — | — |
| "Know Me Better" | 2020 | — | — |
| "More Than Me" | 2021 | — | — |
| "When I'm With You" (with Evie Irie) | 2022 | — | — |
| "First Christmas" | 2022 | — | — |
| "Come Together" (with Lee Kernaghan and Mitch Tambo) | 2022 | — | — |
| "Have You Ever?" | 2023 | — | — |
| "Burn" | 2023 | — | — |
| "All I Can Give" | 2023 | — | — |
| "BALANCE" | 2024 | — | — |
| "Lone Soldier" | 2025 | — | — |
Awards and nominations
Music awards
Isaiah Firebrace gained prominence in the music industry after winning the eighth season of The X Factor Australia in 2016, securing a recording contract with Sony Music Australia as part of the prize.[23] In 2023, Firebrace received two nominations at the Country Music Awards of Australia (also known as the Toyota Golden Guitar Awards) for his collaboration on the single "Come Together" with Lee Kernaghan and Mitch Tambo.[71] The track was nominated for Vocal Collaboration of the Year, recognizing its ensemble performance, but the award went to James Johnston and Kaylee Bell for "Same Songs."[72] It also earned a nomination in the Heritage Song of the Year category, highlighting its cultural resonance, though Luke O'Shea won for "South East Queensland."[72]| Year | Award | Category | Nominee/Work | Result | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | The X Factor Australia | Winner | Isaiah Firebrace | Won | Sydney Morning Herald |
| 2023 | Country Music Awards of Australia | Vocal Collaboration of the Year | "Come Together" (with Lee Kernaghan and Mitch Tambo) | Nominated | Country.com.au |
| 2023 | Country Music Awards of Australia | Heritage Song of the Year | "Come Together" (with Lee Kernaghan and Mitch Tambo) | Nominated | Country.com.au |