When nine-year-old Emma Cerchi stepped onto the stage for her blind audition on The Voice Kids France 2018, she stood out right away. Singing Serge Lama’s iconic “Je suis malade,” she delivered a depth and emotional intensity that instantly drew in both the audience and the judges.
Emma chose a song with a powerful legacy. “Je suis malade,” written by Serge Lama and Alice Dona in 1973, became especially famous thanks to Dalida’s interpretation. It’s a demanding piece even for seasoned performers, yet the young singer from Marseille handled it with remarkable confidence and heartfelt expression.
Her performance touched all four coaches—Jenifer, Patrick Fiori, Soprano, and Amel Bent. One by one, their chairs turned as they reacted to the emotion of her voice. The judges couldn’t hide their feelings, impressed not only with her vocal ability but also with the sincerity she poured into every note.
When it was time to choose her coach, Emma selected Soprano, the rapper who supported her with genuine enthusiasm. Under his guidance, she continued to grow throughout the competition, sharpening her technique and stage presence with each new performance.
Emma ultimately won the fifth season of The Voice Kids France in 2018. Her story left a strong impression on viewers: she lives with Leber congenital amaurosis, a rare genetic condition that gradually affects vision. Despite this challenge, her determination and talent shined even brighter, turning her audition into one of the season’s most unforgettable moments.
