When 7-year-old Shaney-Lee Pool stepped onto the stage of The Voice Kids UK, no one could’ve predicted just how magical his performance would be. Singing John Denver’s beloved classic, “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” Shaney-Lee melted hearts with his angelic voice and sweet charm. His performance didn’t just win over the audience—it went viral! The video has been viewed a staggering 63 million times, and it’s easy to see why.
The Bristol schoolboy had the crowd on their feet from the very first notes. His soft, pure tone breathed new life into the song, and his love for country music was clear. When Shaney-Lee finished, English pop star Pixie Lott turned her chair, securing him a place on her team.
“Wow, what a voice you’ve got!” Pixie exclaimed. “You’ve made me smile so much.”
A Country Boy at Heart
Shaney-Lee’s passion for country music is no surprise—he lives on a farm near Bristol Airport, surrounded by animals. His Shetland pony, Bobby Brown, is his best buddy, and Shaney-Lee even rode him to the studio in the audition video!
Before his audition, Shaney-Lee shared his love for country and Western music. “It’s my favorite! I’ve even seen Kenny Rogers live,” he said proudly, referring to the late Texas country legend. “I listen to music everywhere—on the radio, at my nan’s house, and on YouTube.”
His parents, Shane and Tamara, couldn’t be prouder of their son. Shane shared, “Whenever Shaney-Lee sings, it makes you so proud. Wherever we go, people always ask him to sing. He brings joy to everyone.”
A Natural Performer
When Shaney-Lee took the stage, it was clear he knew how to work a crowd. The audience clapped, cheered, and swayed along, fully enchanted. Afterward, Shaney-Lee’s interview had everyone smiling even more.
For more cuteness, fans can watch Shaney-Lee in the battle round, where he teamed up with fellow contestants Lilia Slattery and Jimmy Rey to perform “ABC” by The Jackson 5. Their fun, lively performance lit up the stage!
Although Shaney-Lee’s journey on The Voice Kids ended in the battle round—where Lilia Slattery advanced as a top-six finalist—it’s clear he made a lasting impression.
“An Old Soul in a Little Body”
Shaney-Lee’s mom, Tamara, says he’s wise beyond his years. “He’s got so much confidence—way more than me!” she laughed. “He’s definitely an older person in a little man’s body.”
Before his blind audition, Shaney-Lee had a personal checklist for success:
- Smile.
- Dance.
- Hold the microphone.
- Tap my foot.
And boy, did that strategy pay off! His performance was a hit in the studio and online.
A Timeless Classic
Shaney-Lee’s sweet rendition of “Take Me Home, Country Roads” stayed true to the song’s heart, even though his voice brought a unique touch. John Denver’s original version, released in 1971, was his breakout hit, earning Platinum status in both the US and the UK.
The song remains Denver’s most famous work, with over 763 million streams on Spotify—more than triple the streams of his next big hit, “Annie’s Song.” It was featured on his fourth album, Poems, Prayers & Promises, and has become a country music staple.
A Star in the Making
Shaney-Lee Pool may have started his journey as a 7-year-old singing on a farm, but his performance proved he’s destined for great things. With his incredible voice, natural charm, and love for music, this little country boy has captured hearts everywhere.
So, what did you think of Shaney-Lee’s performance? Let us know in the comments!
