Achille Fong, a 20-year-old singer from Sydney, captured attention during his audition for *Australian Idol* when judge Amy Shark began filming his performance on her phone. Fong performed the iconic song “All The Small Things” by the 1990s rock band Blink-182, and Shark’s unexpected move quickly turned his audition into a viral moment.
Reflecting on the experience, Fong described walking into the audition room as surreal. He knew Shark was a fan of pop-punk music and had previously collaborated with members of Blink-182. “When she started filming, I wasn’t sure if it was a good or a bad thing,” he shared. “But then she started smiling, and I thought ‘this was a good thing.’”
After his performance, Shark informed Fong that she intended to send the video to Blink-182 members. “I couldn’t believe it,” Fong recounted. Upon his return to receive his golden ticket, Shark revealed that the band had responded positively, with one member even sending a fire emoji in reaction to his performance.
Fong, who grew up in Hong Kong before moving to Sydney at the age of 14, expressed his excitement about the band’s acknowledgment. “It’s super crazy to know they had watched a video of me performing their song,” he said. He emphasized his gratitude towards Shark, stating, “She didn’t have to do that — record me and send it to the guys. I’m just really happy that my performance was really appreciated.”
Fong has been influenced by pop-punk music throughout his life, which he describes as having “a lot of energy.” He enjoys performing high-energy songs and engaging with audiences. “That’s what I love about the genre and what I’m all about,” he noted.
Two years prior, while pursuing studies in international business and archaeology, Fong worked as a stagehand. This role allowed him to watch bands he admired, such as Twenty One Pilots and Green Day, from the side of the stage. He termed the experience “surreal” and it fueled his determination to pursue a music career seriously. Consequently, he formed his own band called Where She Was.
Fong credits his family, particularly his younger brother Atilla, with inspiring him. Atilla has gained recognition from participating in singing competitions in Hong Kong and South Korea. “He’s had a lot more experience in the industry than I do,” Fong said. “I’m very proud of him because he’s quite successful now.”
Atilla’s success motivated Fong to audition for *Australian Idol*. After receiving a golden ticket and a place in the Top 30, Fong confirmed his family is supporting him from Hong Kong. As he prepares for the next stage of the competition, he aims to remain authentic. “People can just expect me to rock out on stage and hopefully the crowd enjoys it,” he concluded.
With the competition heating up, Fong’s journey on *Australian Idol* is one to watch, further fueled by the unexpected support from one of the genre’s prominent artists.
