Southampton singer CJ Edwards lost out last night in his bid to break through to the next stage of The Voice.

The 24-year-old had a tough fight on his hands when coach and Black Eyed Peas star will i.am pitted him against Belfast fashion student Leah McFall in the battle rounds to win a spot in their judge’s final six.

As they took on The Way You Make Me Feel by Michael Jackson, it looked like CJ might just have the edge on Leah when it comes to performing.

Judge Jessie J said: “Vocally Leah was stronger but performance-wise I just kept watching CJ.”

But in the end it was the Northern Irish student who made it through.

CJ, who lives in Bitterne, and works door to door raising money for charity, told the Daily Echo: “I think Leah had more to offer.

“I don’t feel a sense of entitlement. All I can do is try my best and if your best takes you somewhere good then that is awesome, but if it does not, at least I tried.

“The crowd was really loving the energy and I loved having the chance to perform.”