Hackney’s singing politician, Jermain Jackman, is through to The Voice live quarterfinal

Jermain Jackman with rapper Will.i.am on The Voice, Photo BBC Wall To Wall, Guy Lev (Image: WARNING: Use of this copyright image is subject to the terms of use of BBC Pictures\' Digital Picture Service (BBC Pictures) a...)

The 19-year-old from Hackney picked up the nickname from judge Sir Tom Jones on his first appearance after he was singled out by judge Will.i.am, who is now his mentor and coach.

On Sunday, the former Islington Arts and Media School (IAMS) pupil sang A House is Not A Home, a song originally recorded by Dionne Warwick, and written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David for the 1964 film of the same name.

Will.i.am, who met Jermain at the 2012 Hackney Weekend when he told him to apply for the series after his performance with fellow Hackney singer Leona Lewis, confided the song was his mum’s favourite.

The Black Eyed Peas producer had to pick three of his seven team members to go through to the next round, and singled out Jermain, along with Aisha and Sophie.

He said: “Jermain is this old soul, he has a heart of gold.

“He’s well mannered, humble, but his humbleness could hold him back, he’s just gotta slice.”

Following his performance, legendary crooner Tom Jones remarked: “Jermain stood out for me, he has this tremendous range.”

There are 12 contestants now left now in the live quarter final this Saturday night.