Daryl Braithwaite upbeat about Coffs teen talent Casey Alexander

Australia’s king of pop Daryl Braithwaite had a quiet word to Coffs Harbour’s Casey Alexander after the youngster wowed the crowd at the Moonee Beach Hotel. See how the howzat moment has set Casey riding horses on the long road to the top.

Casey Alexander is just 17 but can now add a rap from Daryl Braithwaite to his resume, after playing an opening set for the king of pop at Moonee Beach.

Having picked up a guitar in Year 6, Casey now books out shows in Coffs, playing for large crowds.

Braithwaite – a legend of the Australian music scene and ARIA hall of fame member – told Casey after the set that the young performer had a bright future.

Casey Alexander is influenced by Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes and James Arthur. Picture: supplied

“Keep pursuing it. Have that drive,” Braithwaite told Casey.

“Eventually everything falls into place.”

He told Casey to persist and work hard to achieve his dreams.

“He told me to believe in myself - things do happen,” Casey said.

Casey’s performance was a hit, as he was embraced by the crowd at the Moonee Beach Hotel.

A legend of Aussie pop music with the future: Casey Alexander, 17, from Coffs Harbour opened for Daryl Braithwaite at Moonee Beach Hotel. Picture: supplied

“About two minutes before the set, the butterflies kicked in,” Casey said.

But the supportive crowd had the youngster’s back from the start.

“As soon as I started I felt fine,” he said.

Casey said he chose to play a mix of upbeat and slower songs, as well as “anthems” everyone would be familiar with.

“I could hear people singing and dancing. It was really nice to see people engaging. It made me feel really good,” Casey said.

The locals embraced the young talent, but many musicians want more funding in order to support the music and arts scene in Coffs.

“It was such a buzz, I really appreciate how everyone that went out to see Daryl was so supportive of me,” he said.

“It boosted my confidence and helped me love what I do.”

He said it was the best gig he’s ever played at.

Casey Alexander’s music centers around his guitar and vocals. Picture: supplied

“As soon as I started I realised: this feels right. I put my heart into it and enjoyed it.”

Casey said his family had been supportive, with his mother acting as his manager.

“They do everything they can for me - mum helps me get gigs and prepare me for them. She takes the pressure off,” he said.

Casey said he was thrilled to have had the chance to speak with Braithwaite.

“It was really cool meeting someone as successful as him,” he said.

He aims to take a gap year to write and produce music – and with Braithwaite’s words of wisdom ringing in his ear – Casey Alexander’s musical journey is one to watch.