From the moment Susan stepped into the world, it was clear that she was in for a difficult ride. A lack of oxygen at birth left her with learning disabilities, effecting her performance at school.
Her frizzy hair, and slow pace at understanding school meant she was a victim to bullying, she claims other kids would call her ‘Susie Simple’. Like many common families in the 60′s and 70′s Susan had a large and close family, she was a sister of eight other siblings which were ready to help her when in need.
Never the less, Susan’s life at home was very much the birthplace of her musical mind and her hidden talent. “I come from a musical family,” says Susan. “It has always been there, from my father down. Singing is always something I have done. It has been in my blood since I was 12 and took part in school productions and shows.”
During her teenage years, Susan attended Edinburgh Acting School and has also appeared in the Edinburgh Fringe Music Festival. In 1999 she recorded a very Scottish version of ‘Cry me a River’, of which 1000 copies of the CD were sold!
This may have been a true wake-up call she needed. With the public taking a liking to her voice, Susan became a regular on stage at the Happy Valley Hotel in Blackburn. Singing the classical melodies of her generation to her local supporters, and local drinkers alike.
Inside Susan beats a heart of Gold, putting others before herself. Since the passing of her late father, Susan put her time and effort into good deed’s including volunteering at her church, and of course looking after her mother.
Susan and her mother held a powerful mother and daughter bond. But at the age of 91, Susan’s Mum, Bridget Boyle passed away leaving Susan very lonely. She would spend vast amounts of time at home doing the simple things like cooking and cleaning, mainly the tasks she would do while looking after her mother.
These were hard times for Susan, alone with just her thoughts and her cat pebbles by her side. For years after her Mother’s death she failed to maintain the drive to continue singing. The younger generation of local children would also trouble her at home, playing tricks like knock-and-run on her.
At this point she knew things couldn’t go on like this. There was no one at her front door to help. From then on things were to change, Susan was going to sing! And more importantly she was to do it for her mother.
The first opportunity Susan saw was the TV show ‘Britain’s Got Talent’, and with auditions for the third season. She decided to risk it “I had seen Britain’s Got Talent on TV and thought I would have a go,” she said.
As the saying goes; ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’, Susan understood the importance of talent over looks. She claims Paul Potts a former contestant also shared her qualities of unheard talent and imperfect looks. “Paul Potts was an inspiration to a lot of people. and I thought I would take my chances” She said.
In October 2008 she traveled to the city of Glasgow, and attended the first auditions. Susan successfully shocked and impressed the judges with ease, putting her through to the auditions judged by Simon, Piers and Amanda. An international reputation and fame was on the horizon.
From then on the internet has played a significant role in making her voice heard around the globe. The video of Susan’s star performance can be seen on YouTube, with over 20 Million already, it shows an accurate representation of her popularity.
