A CHANCE encounter in a restaurant kick-started an amazing chain of events for a talented local musician.

Heather Small, the lead singer of the iconic band M People, was visiting The Stable in Cardiff October 2018 when she saw acoustic singer and songwriter, Tobias Robertson, performing his regular slot.

She was so impressed with what she heard that she asked to sing with him much to the astonishment of the visiting clientele – and Tobias – and asked Tobias to be her support act on her forthcoming tour this month.

Tobias is no stranger to the spotlight, as in February 2016 he was chosen from thousands of applicants to sing on The Voice UK.

Pop star Boy George chose Tobias for his team after describing him as a great singer’ after hearing his rendition of the song You’ve Got a Friend In Me by Randy Newman, made popular in the 90s Disney film Toy Story.

READ MORE: Newport singer Tobias Robertson wins over Boy George in The Voice blind auditions

But for Tobias, who writes and performs his own songs, this is a chance to prove he can shine. He said: “I have been working so hard on my music for so many years and experienced lots of amazing moments, but this is such an exciting time.

"I’m hoping this tour will give me the opportunity to be seen, have fun and to learn from a British soul legendalong the way. I’ve been producing a five track EP of original songs to release later this year. It’s the first release that feels like me.

“Since The Voice I’ve just been working on becoming a better musician and playing great music for people whether it’s cover songs or my own. My family have supported me to push for what I want and I’m hoping that between the EP, the tour and the work I’m putting in I can get to where I want to be.”

South Wales Argus:

Picture: Nick Fowler

To find out more about this talented musician, from Newport, check out tobiasrobertson.co.uk

Heather Small’s tour kicks off on April 10, when she performs at the Apex in Bury St Edmunds. For a full list of tour dates visit: heathersmall-mpeople.com/news/heather-small-announces-2019-tour