Hey Hit Zone! I’m Gigi, and I’m back once again to fill you in on everything X Factor…this is the X Factor Xtra!
Season three of the X Factor brought a slew of new changes with it. With Britney Spears, L.A. Reid and Khloe Kardashian no longer on the show, we now have Kelly Rowland and Paulina Rubio as brand new judges, Simon Cowell and Demi Lovato reprising their roles as judges/mentors, and Mario Lopez returning as solo host of the show.
Starting this two-episode season premiere off was twenty-three year old Carlito Olivero. While he was very charismatic and likable, his performance of Rihanna’s “Stay” did not do much for me (then again maybe I’m biased because I just don’t like that song.). However, all four judges saw something in him and he was put through to the next round. Here’s his audition, let me know what you think:
Season three of the X Factor brought a slew of new changes with it. With Britney Spears, L.A. Reid and Khloe Kardashian no longer on the show, we now have Kelly Rowland and Paulina Rubio as brand new judges, Simon Cowell and Demi Lovato reprising their roles as judges/mentors, and Mario Lopez returning as solo host of the show.
Starting this two-episode season premiere off was twenty-three year old Carlito Olivero. While he was very charismatic and likable, his performance of Rihanna’s “Stay” did not do much for me (then again maybe I’m biased because I just don’t like that song.). However, all four judges saw something in him and he was put through to the next round. Here’s his audition, let me know what you think:
Sally Hessnice was up next. Although I agreed with the judges about her audition not being…the best it could have been, I still thought she had some potential.
Plus, I have to give the woman props for staying so positive after that kind of rejection!
Lillie McCloud blew the judges away with her audition…and it was the first time this season I found myself impressed with an act. Check out her version of “Alabaster Box” below.
Alex and Sierra, an adorable couple of two years gave an interesting performance of Britney Spears’ “Toxic.” Their quirky personalities, on-stage chemistry and unique auditions gave the judges hope for the duo, and they moved on to the next round.
Next to the stage, and the last audition of the night was bubbly Florida girl Rion Paige. Her country vibe and her strength were incredible to watch. See for yourself!
NIGHT 2 (THURSDAY 9/12)
Day two of the X Factor auditions was kicked off in Denver, Colorado and Long Island, New York. `
Okay, now I know you should always be prepared for an audition…but someone else, well, I’m just going to let you guys watch for yourselves-because I have nothing to say.
Okay, now I know you should always be prepared for an audition…but someone else, well, I’m just going to let you guys watch for yourselves-because I have nothing to say.
I lied. I do have something to say. How do you audition for the X Factor and NOT know SIMON COWELL????? I just don’t get that.
Nineteen year old Thomas Weiderspon, Carrigan Bradley, Amber Ferrari, K+B and Sean Harris were the slew of bad auditions…except I thought that with a little hard work they could have had potential. There’s always next year!
Rylie Brown’s version of “Clarity” did what no amount of hearing that song on the radio could do. She made me like the song-and if I don’t like a song, that’s hard to accomplish. I thought she was so cute and down-to-earth when she forgot the words to the song. And what a voice for a fifteen year old! Check her out:
I think Simon put it best when he said she was “one to watch.”
Next up to audition was Jeff Brinkman. He was instantly likable so I was rooting for his audition to go well. And…
I was not disappointed!!
Okay, so when Jocelyn Hinton was caught on camera pre-audition, I was really impressed by her confidence in herself, and how seriously she took this competition. And when she first took the stage and started talking to the judges I thought this one is going to be good. Boy, was I mistaken. Take a look at her version of Katy Perry’s “Firework”…and about four other songs.
Twenty-nine year old country singer Rachel Potter took on Queen’s “Somebody To Love.” Now I could tell you how she blew me away…but I’ll just let you guys get blown away.
Ice cream truck driver Jorge Pena came off very arrogant and unlikable during his audition (Demi would definitely agree with me). I personally think the “X Factor” is more than just a great voice. It’s stage presence, swagger and an ability to connect to your audience. I just did not think Jorge deserved the four yeses that he received. He’d just better change his attitude.
Quirky Long Island native Simone Torres’ spirited performance of “Mustang Sally” earned her four approvals to the next round. I thought she was one of the best I’ve heard this season.
Now, I do not think ANYONE could be the “next” Frank Sinatra, but if there was going to be one, it certainly would not be Russ Pouliot. Not only did he claim to be the next crooner, but he continued to ruin one of my favorite Elvis songs. I almost did not want to show the lovely readers of Hit Zone, but I did say I’d keep you in the know, so…
Roxxy Montana was the first group this season I was actually impressed with. I think the judges were right about their need to work on vocals, but these three girls have the potential to be completely incredible.
The next contestant to audition was nineteen year old Al Calderon. I thought he looked familiar, but didn’t think much of it. He was very charismatic and personable, and although his nerves kind of shook up his vocals, Al’s audition was still really great. The judges agreed with me. Here’s Al with “Sara’s Smile.”
Oh, in case you were wondering, my friend reminded me that he played Eddie in 13: The Musical on Broadway…that’s how I knew him.
The last audition of the two-night premiere was one of the most heartfelt. Denise Weeks auditioned with Whitney Houston’s “The Greatest Love of All,” and although off to a rocky start, her audition ended up winning over the judges.
Well…that’s all I have for you this week! Catch more of the X Factor Wednesdays at 8/7c on FOX.
Until next time!
-Gigi
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