SINGAPORE — There’s something curious about young up-and-coming singer Farisha Ishak. It’s clear she’s no ordinary girl and she’s known by most as a soulful powerhouse.

But the winner of The Final 1 last year can’t really be considered a newbie to the scene. Aside from the massive shopping spree opportunities during this Great Singapore Sale (thanks to the S$50,000 cash prize she received), Farisha released an album, Aligned, in January this year. She’s now in the middle of her one-year study hiatus (she’s studying Political Science) to focus on her music career.

“Prior to The Final 1, I never thought this would be the path I was going to choose.” she said. “But having done this, I would love to pursue this further, going wherever this takes me.”

It isn’t hard to imagine this dewy-eyed singer on her way to fame and fortune. However, trying to describe Farisha’s singing is pretty complicated — she’s what would happen if Adele, London Grammar’s Hannah Reid and Emeli Sande had a musical baby.

It’s no coincidence that Sande is one of her greatest musical inspirations. “I’m currently reading Emeli’s autobiography!” said Farisha. “I like reading about how she lived and it’s great motivation. Her passion for her work can be heard through her music, and she’s just so genuine and sincere with her work. I like being inspired by people. If they can do it, why can’t I?”

But the path to greatness is not easy, and for Farisha, the road does seem daunting at times. “There’s a portion of success that is based on luck. These singers I love, they’re right there at the top and so untouchable. While I’m here at the bottom just starting out and learning the ropes.” she said. “I’ve got a long way to go.”

Farisha certainly has music on her mind and is focusing all her energies on achieving her goal. Which means personal relationships must take a back seat. “Love is definitely a distraction and it’s good that I don’t have any right now. If you’re thinking about your other half all the time, how are you going to concentrate on your work?”

However, there’s no reason that “distraction” couldn’t serve as a double-edged sword. “Love is an apparent theme in many songs.” Farisha conceded. “I believe one day when I do get into a relationship, I would be able to use that experience to weave it into my songs. Not necessarily pulling a Taylor Swift though!”

Nevertheless, Farisha maintains that she is still very much like “every other teenage girl”.

“(I like) hanging with my friends and family, watching movies,” she elaborated. “For leisure, I go jogging.”

It’s clear Farisha has her work cut out for her, but she’s game to do what it takes to make it. “I’m open to anything, be it acting or hosting — anything that has to do with being in this vibrant industry.”