Selena Ledgerto...'s profileX Factor: the MSN BlogPhotosBlogListsMore Tools Help
In-depth coverage of X Factor 2008 in our special
ITV talent show The X Factor is back on our screens

Selena Ledgerton Cooper

Occupation

Latest Video

Loading...Loading...

Moderation:

The views in this column/blog are those of the author alone and not of MSN or Microsoft ______________________
External links are not controlled by MSN (or me) and liability for visiting them cannot be accepted. ______________________ Moderation of Comments and the Guestbook
Comments and Guestbook are operated on a notice and take-down basis. If you spot something you believe is inappropriate, illegal or offensive you should click the 'Report Abuse' link and the moderators will investigate and decide whether to remove it.

Today On MSN

Loading...Loading...
Add to Technorati Favorites

X Factor: the MSN Blog

News, gossip, results and reports from ITV show The X Factor.
December 19

Alexandra Interview!

 
Alexandra Burke Interview

Alexandra Burke - Interview

Just click to hear what this year's X Factor winner had to say about that triumphant duet with Beyonce, bouncing back from her X Factor 2005 disappointment, and becoming mates with Cheryl Cole.
 
Click Here to read TV Columnist, Stuat Bak's cutting review of the final and then Click Here to find out what a real super-fan had to say... Who do you agree with?
 
Hope you've had fun peeps! See you back on the blogs in the new year for Dancing On Ice and Celebrity Big Brother...
 
Love ya, Mwah!
Selena x
 
PS - If you fancy reliving those final moments, I've added the videos below... Just click away you gorgeous lot!
 
 
The winner of The X Factor 2008 is...
 

Alexandra performs her new single Hallelujah, along with the final 12 contestants!
December 13

LIVE Blog - The Final

 
ARE YOU READY?
 
HERE WE GO!!!
 
The LIVE blog is running now...
 
Click 'add a comment' below to give your opinion on each act and join in with the LIVE chat. Just click F5 to refresh the screen after every performance for my two penneths.
 
Please note: Comments are short, sharp reactions to the live show... This is a live blog and not a straight article - You have been warned...
 
SHOW STARTS:
 
I have to say, I'm really excited about tonight's show. I think its going to be a corker and I can't wait to see the acts perform with their secret stars!
 
Cool! The show begins with the final 12 giving it some to Ain't No Mountain High Enough and it's great to see Laura, Diana and Austin back. Woohoo! What a great performance and how polished did they look? They're all obviously preparing for their new careers, be they Wembley Stadium or Wolverhampton Social. Laura has lost so much weight too - she looked stunning before, but wowser! Did you see?
 
What? Adverts already?
 
The songs are:
 

Eoghan

I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday
We’re All In This Together
Picture Of You

JLS

Last Christmas
I’m Already There
Flying Without Wings

Alexandra

Silent Night
Listen
You Are So Beautiful
 

It's gonna be a great night...

Up first is Eoghan and he's chuffed to bits to have made the final. He loved going home to visit everyone and could not believe it when the police had to escort him through his home town. His fans carpeted the town centre (11,000 in all) and Eoghan was in tears...

"After all the support that people have given to me, I have to go out there tonight and show them..."

Eek! It's a cheesefest!
Eoghan starts the show with I Wish It Could Christmas Every Day and can you believe he's in a sleigh? They even have the reindeer and a ton of kids!

ITV/Rex Features - Eoghan X Factor Final

The vocal was sweet enough (I mean it doesn't need to be anything else for this song), but the performance made it. All they needed was Santa, crackers and a big fat turkey and they'd have been away!

All the judges loved it and Cheryl was keen to hear more from Eoghan's fan club in the crowd. Louis says Eoghan deserves to be in the final and he's more than glad he's there and Simon commends him for a cracking start to the show.

JLS could not believe the reception the got when they travelled home to Croydon. It floored all four of them and the stretched hummer with 'JLS' on the side was a great touch Louis! Aston was near to tears and the boys felt like the Beatles when all of the girls were screaming and clawing for them.

ITV/Rex Features - JLS X Factor Final

They perform Last Christmas and I have to say they've really got it together, they're fighting to win these boys. It was heartfelt, believeable and warming and there was far less cheese (well until they started swaying and clicking their fingers, but hey...)

Simon tells JLS that he was right to say they'd be the most successful band to come from the X Factor. "You only have to look at that film, you already look like stars!" Louis is welling up and urges people to vote, "I've never met four nicer guys. Can we win it? YES WE CAN!" - He sobs...

Alex is up next... and she loved going home, not only to see her fans and family, but most of all to see her mum. Her mum is rumoured to be in the audience tonight and Alex is chuffed to bits as her mum has kidney problems and requires regular dialysis. I have to admire Alex you know... On this show she could have turned that into her 'sob story', but she didn't - Good for her.

She performs Silent Night and I'm blown away. The vocal is nothing short of flawless, this girl is a superstar! I have to agree with Dannii, "Get used to the red carpets and limos girl!" Cheryl thinks Alex'll have no problem up there with the superstars and Simon just repeats one word - "OUTSTANDING!"



My only critique was the outfit. From the waist up I thought she was dressed in a gorgeous flowing gown like a Greek godess, but when the camera dropped it was cropped like something out of Carry On Cleo! - Not the one, even Selena's hubby didn't like it.
Loved the hair though...

LOL! Kim Marsh just dropped a clanger! While interviewing people from Alex's hometown, she said "I can't wait to see her performance with Beyonce!" So there you go - Cat out the bag people... Beyonce is in the house!

So here we go with the duets!

Eoghan kicks things off with Picture Of You (and you just know Boyzone are gonna burst onstage at any moment) - Shazam! There they are and YES, they ARE singing LIVE! Good for you boys... The performance is like their suits, perfectly tailored. Ronan Keating has a cracking voice and I know I should be watching Eoghan, but there you go. I guess Ronan has the X Factor.

Eugh! I'm disappointed... It's turned into a Louis-fest as Westlife join JLS onstage. I guess Rihanna really was unavailable, I'd have loved to see them do Umbrella with her. Never mind eh... The boys still pull off a harmonious performance of Flying Without Wings and Westlife are glad to be back (and promise a new album next year). After watching that, I think Simon's right. JLS looked just as comfortable up there as Westlife did. Shane from Westlife said, "I think they're gonna win this!"

Time for the ads and Dermot tries to leave us guessing about who's dueting with Alex, I can't help laughing as he knows (fine well) that Kim's already let the cat out of the bag. Silly Dermy!

Alex takes the stage and performs Listen. She belts it out (as she has previously) and it's truly amazing, but when she introduces her 'Hero' Beyonce Knowles the floor shakes and shudders. I'm telling you Beyonce Knowles rocks, the lady is a diva and her voice is so distinctive and soulful. Was it really the best plan singing with Bouncy? I have to ask because like Eoghan, Alex was overshadowed by the presence that is Miss B.

Bless, Beyonce has nothing but compliments for Alex... "Such a beautiful voice and such a beautiful young lady." Alex is overwhelmed and in floods, "Thank you for making my dreams come true Beyonce... and thank you for making it for Cheryl too - She really wanted this to work out and..." The tears fall down her cheeks and Beyonce gives her the biggest hug.

LOL! The rejects performance of I Have A Dream really is car crash telly this year. It's one thing to say it and another thing to mean it. They got the words wrong, they fluffed the choreography and all came in at the wrong time - awful!

Eoghan performs his favourite song of the series, We're All In This Together. It wasn't my favourite turn last time around, but he nails the choreography and seems far more relaxed tonight. Like Simon says, he's obviously having the time of his life. Danni commends his bravery, "The most star studded audience here tonight and you have no nerves" and Louis is chuffed that he's doing it for the Irish! "You're like Fed Ex, you always deliver. You've made everyone in Ireland very proud!"

Wow! JLS are trying their hardest tonight and Cheryl agrees, "You sang your socks off." The boys perform Already There and I'm telling you they have as good a chance as any... It was cracking! You could almost feel Aston's heart beating in his chest. Then again, they all connected emotionally and had the audience on their feet. Cheryl can't believe the noise, "The hysteria you cause is reminiscent of a young Take That - That's all you need!"

Okay, so I reckon that's game over. Alexandra has just given her all and her performance of You Are So Beautiful was a winner for me (even if the dress was absolutely awful!) - Her vocal was controlled, the performance was so powerful and you can tell that her emotion just came to a head right there. It washed over her by the end and left her in tears. Cheryl gushed "I'm so proud of you" and Simon said it all, "A star has just been born!"

Which performance was your favourite?
Leave your comments...

I'll be back for the result show...
Keep voting it's too close to call and the lines are SO busy, but you will get through.

Hope you've enjoyed the blog so far...
I'm just gonna sort out some photos for you. They'll appear as I work my way down the blog.

Selena x

THE RESULTS:

So who's it going to be peeps?

LINES ARE NOW FROZEN AND THE FIRST VOTE COUNT WILL BE TAKEN.

After the break Dermot will announce who is in third place and then they'll reopen the phone lines to drag it out a bit longer, I mean to allow the fans to vote for their winner (hem, hem).

While we're waiting...
Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of MSN Reality TV Blogs

I'll be starting the Dancing On Ice and Celebrity Big Brother Blogs soon and news of them will be posted there...

THROUGH TO THE TOP TWO ARE...

JLS AND ALEXANDRA!

EOGHAN LEAVES IN THIRD PLACE.

Eoghan is gracious in defeat, "I've really enjoyed myself. I want to wish JLS and Alexandra all the best and to go on and do their best."

Simon adds, "he was up against two terrific acts tonight. You can leave with your head held high young man."

What does Dermot mean 'The lines have re-opened for the next 30 minutes'? How on earth are they gonna drag this out for half an hour? It's like pulling teeth!They've only got to take their turn performing the final song (and I think it's a ruddy miserable choice this year). Hallelujah sounds almost like a Dirge. I just don't find it melodic at all and usually the X Factor songs are uplifting and upbeat - Definitely not monotone as I feel this is.

JLS are performing it now and their harmonies are second to none, it's a great version of a plodding number. Not happy...

Louis encourages fans to vote and repeats that these guys work so hard. "I think Simon was wrong before when he said 'A star is born'. Four stars were born tonight - J... L... S!"

Cheryl wishes them luck and Simon admits that although his act is out, "I'm glad you went through, you deserved to be there". The boys hope that people enjoyed it at home and will vote. Aston looks like he's in shock and could cry at any moment, "That was the best thing I've done in my life". Wouldn't it be one for the underdog if these guys won?

Or should it be Alex, is she the REAL underdog? She has returned after missing out after all, surely she deserves that second bite at the cherry.

OMG! Alexandra has just blown the crowd away.

Her rendition was delicate and soft, rising to a crescendo of soulful joy. She loved every minute of that performance and is beaming. When the judges tell her how much they loved it she's almost hyperventilating... Cheryl says, "You're not just my act, you are my friend and I really hopes this works out like it should and you win it."

Simon said "UNBELIEVABLE! Just unbelievable, you have to win!"

Alex is humbled and can just about muster a 'thank you'. She searches the audience for her family and says, "I love you mum".

THE VOTING LINES ARE NOW CLOSED.
THE WINNER OF X FACTOR 2008 IS...

ALEXANDRA!

WOOHOO!

Come on, we all know she deserved it. I mean, especially after being blown out by Louis in the first place.

Alex is in floods and dedicates the image of her new single to her family, "and everyone who voted for me! Thank you!" She's so overwhelmed she feels like she's going to faint!

JLS have nothing but respect for Alex and they celebrate her win. Dermot hands them the mic and asks how they feel, "What we have done gives other people hope - Victory after victory!"

Alex performs her new single and the crowd are on their feet. The final 12 surround her and that's the end of this series of X Factor, but just the beginning for Alexandra Burke...

Did your favourite win?
Leave your comments...

I hope you enjoyed the blog this year, let me know x

Hope to see you for Dancing On Ice & Celebrity Big Brother in January...

Selena x  

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

 

Final Songlist

Here's the song list for tonight. The contestants will also be performing duets with their own secret star! Want to know more? Take a look at the post below for all the goss from the Final Press Conference...

Eoghan

I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday
We’re All In This Together

JLS

Last Christmas
I’m Already There

Alexandra

Silent Night
Listen

Join me for the LIVE blog the moment the show airs. I'll be here to give you my view of each performance and I hope you'll pop over to give me yours. I can't wait! Who should take the X Factor crown and release their version of Hallelujah?
 
See you tonight!
 
Selena x
 

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

 

The Final Press Conference

 
So how are the finalists feeling about tonight?
 
I popped into the X Factor Final press conference to find out...
 
ITV/Rex Features
 
It was quite a lighthearted conference this year, though you could feel the nerves emanating from each of the acts. As the judges and their artists entered, Danni was announced as 'the impartial judge' and she shook her head and squealed "Because I have no artist!" Then Cheryl and Alex headed for the stage and Simon booed the pair of them and giggled to himself like a naughty schoolboy... They were all in good spirits.
 
So back to the point of the post, how are they all feeling about tonight?
 
Alexandra
 
"We've all taken in what we've learned in the past eleven weeks. As I've said before, I'm a sponge and I just wanna soak it all in. I've had the time of my life and no matter how the voting goes on Saturday, I know I can leave with my head held high. I mean there's been 180,000 applicants and we're the last three - come on!"

Eoghan
 
"You know... Talk about pressure, you've got here and you can't think about it. You've got one hand on the prize and you just wanna get the second hand on it - I think it's gonna be a hard, stressful night for everybody. But (you know) we've all become really good friends and we really want to win it... But (you know) at the end of the day it comes down to who performs the best."
 
JLS
 
"We've been on stage with people like Mariah Carey, we've had a number one single and met Take That. It's what dreams are made of. As aspiring artists there's no better opportunity in this world and we don't want it to end. Unfortunately it is gonna end on Saturday, but we're all gonna go out with a bang I think..."
 
So who do you want to win tonight?
Leave your comments...


The finale kicks off tonight on ITV1 at 7.10pm with the results show at 9.40pm. Not only will we see some fantastic performances and surprise guest stars, but the Final 12 will return to sing number one hit Hero once more. As always, the 'rejects' will also be back to entertain us (in their own 'special' way - LOL!)
 

The ex-auditionees appearing tonight include:

- Edna (who had a crack at Simon a few years back)
- Shirley (who sang only for Louis)
- Steve (the Eminem wannabe)
- The Denim Twins
- The Girl in 'The Dress That Dad Made'
- Super Sweetheart and 'Good Lookin' Cyril Grant
- Betty Bryce (The 'Avin' a Gang Bang' Lady) and many more...

 
Betty Bryce - ITV
 
As far as the finalists go, rumours are rife as to who'll be paired up with who. Tell you what, if you fancy seeing Boyzone and Westlife (perhaps) and Take That (possibly), Rihanna (probably) and Beyonce (maybe) then by all means tune in. Come on - if it's all whapped out on a plate for us, where's the surprise and fun in that. I love a bit of mystery me!
 
Join me for the LIVE blog the moment the show airs. I'll be here to give you my view of each performance and I hope you'll pop over to give me yours. I can't wait! Who should take the X Factor crown and release their version of Hallelujah?
 
See you tonight!
 
Selena x
 

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

Diana Vickers Secret Gig!

 
Diana definitely looks the part as she performs on stage during an impromptu gig at Westfields Shopping Centre. Before you could say "claw!" she hopped into the Human Jukebox and belted out a few bars to promote Nokia's 'Come With The Music' service.
 
I have to admit it was a cracking little set, but the only thing I would have changed was the outfit - the dress was far too frumpy for her age... Nice style but a little saggy.
 
 
 
Do you agree?
 
If you want a comparison, take a look at this photo of her hitting the red carpet at the premiere for Bedtime Stories in Kensington. This tangerine number was stunning and much more her - quirky, young and vibrant.
 
Take THAT dress, a little shoosh of spray tan and some glorious gold shoes and look at the difference. She stood out from the rest and looked like a star!
This is the look to keep Diana... I love it!
 
Fingers crossed that your future is filled with more red carpet moments like this - Keep smiling!
 
 
How do you think Diana will fair after X Factor?
Does the claw leave you wanting more?
Poor Diana, I think that hand's got a mind of its own now!



Leave your comments...

More soon...
Selena x

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

December 12

If You Want A Deal - Win!

 
Regardless of the fact that Rhydian, Same Difference and Leon ALL landed record deals last year, Simon Cowell has hinted that this may not be the case this time around. In other words, if you want to guarantee a record deal - Win!
 
 

Speaking to ITV about the world's current economic woes, he said, "I think under the current climate I would say it's more important to win the show this year - More that any other year."

He continued, "Like every other business, the record business is tougher than it was last year."

With this in mind, how will the second and third place acts fair and what about artists like Diana Vickers? After all... When Gary Barlow took an interest in signing Diana, Simon was the first to say "we will not be taking Gary up on his kind offer..." So does that mean Diana's already lined up for signing? We shall have to see...

When asked if only the winner would be signed, Simon would not be pushed... "I am not going to make any decisions at this time."

Who would you like to see land that guaranteed contract?
Leave your comments...

Selena x

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

Final Gossip Everywhere!

 
Holy Moly, you can't go anywhere without reading yet another X Factor final rumour?
 
If we believed everything we read, the celebs in attendance would be doing their own version of the ruddy Hokey Cokey - In, Out, In, Out and shake it all about!
 
This person has pulled out, while this one's appearing. This one has refused to comment, while this one will burst on stage in a surprise performance - Blimey!
 
So far...
If I compile all of the rumours:


One story says that Take That have pulled out because Boyzone are performing... but others say the boys have never pulled out or are back in.
 
Another story says that Robbie Williams may give a surprise solo performance, but another speculates that if Take That are 'still in', he may even perform with them - Well fancy that! (What utter tot!)
 
Next, JLS are performing with Rihanna (cool!) - Or should I say they could be, as this other story claims she's pulled out too!
 
...and we've already covered the rumours about Beyonce Knowles performing with Alexandra - Whatever next?
 
It's all go isn't it?
 
Believe what you will people!

Although a lot of people are hoping for a Take That reunion with Robbie, I'm not! I think the boys have done fabulously without him and I'll never forget the way he shunned them when they were out of the limelight and he was on top.
 
They all took part in a TV show and hoped to reunite for a brew and a chat, but Robbie thought better of it and just sent them a video. As well as greeting the boys and wishing them the best, he also flipped the V's and bragged about his Brit Awards and popularity - Not a good plan when it's being screened on national TV.
 
I think by that point the cheeky chap routine had worn thin and his actions were frowned upon - That was it for me (and a lot of others too I'll bet).
 
I mean I have to ask, Where is Robbie now? If the Take That boys hold the key to his return, one of them should swallow it! I'm shaking my head as I'm writing this as I used to love Robbie. I've seen him live many times - but fair's fair.
 
He turned his back on those guys...
and should have known that pride comes before a fall!
 
Mark, Howard, Jason and Gary look like they are having fun, no egos, no arguments, nothing... and you know what they say, if it ain't broke... don't fix it.

That's just my opinion...
What do you think?
 
Selena x
 
I'll be back shortly with the REAL news about the final and CONFIRMED gossip from the house.
No speculation, no imitation... MSN Entertainment.
 
Ha ha ha ha...
Lisen to me, I'm a walking cliche!
 

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

December 10

X Factor Fun

 
Fancy some X Factor link jumping?
 
Why not bob around MSN and check out the juicy chunks of 'Factor' fabulousness we have for you?!
 
Take That - PA Photos
 
Have Take That pulled out of this years final?
Click Here...
 
Laura White - ITV
 
Who would Laura White like to win the X Factor?
 
Diana Vickers - ITV
 
Diana's out! Relive her final night here...
 
And finally...

Take a look at how the finalists made it to this point - Boy it's flown hasn't it? Click Here...
 
I'll be back soon with all the gossip from the house and news of Saturday's finale! I really hope Take That haven't pulled out you know. I'd much rather see them than Boyzone, I blame Louis - Booooo!
 
Oh Howard, what will my Saturday be without you?
(It's that lisp you know, I love it - Phwoar!)
 
Take That (Howard) - PA Photos
 
Selena x
 

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

December 08

Alexandra's Mum Denies Sex Tape Claim


This weekend, The News Of The World has claimed that Alexandra's ex-boyfriend has a 10-minute video of them together. The paper further states that he's hoping to obtain a reported £100,000 for the tape.
 



The News Of The World quotes the man named as D'andre West as saying, "I want to make some money. . . If she becomes a big star this is easily worth that. She strips, we have sex, you can see everything."

The paper claims that Alex was 18 at the time of the recording and that the pair had a two year relationship.

The News Of The World also claims that Alex's ex is still in love with her, but is angered as she is, according to him, "supposed to be dating one of JLS."

Today The Mirror reports that Alexandra's mother has denied these claims. Melissa Bell (44) is quoted as saying, that the former lover, who claims to own the video footage, was getting back at the singer for breaking up with him.

She told The Mirror, "They lived together for just under a year and were together about 18 months before that. He was possessive. He went everywhere with her. Alex told me that if there was anything else to tell me, she would tell me. She found out after they broke up that he had apparently cheated on her - friends told her that."

"So as far as she's concerned, it could be one of a number of girls in that tape. If he did do it, it was in secret, but she said she would have known."

"She hasn't spoken to him for almost two years. She won't see him or meet with him, or return his calls or texts. That's why he's done this."

Alexandra Burke is favourite for the X Factor crown. The final is this Saturday on ITV1.

More soon...

Selena x

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

December 06

LIVE BLOG - DIANA'S OUT!

 
It's Judges Choice week and I can't wait to see the acts pushed to the limit.
 
As Danni has no artists left she's the only impartial judge and more importantly she has nothing to lose. I'm looking forward to hearing her what she really thinks (now it can't come back and bite her on the bum!)
 
Here's the songs for tonight...
 

Alexandra Burke 

Don't Stop The Music
Unbreak My Heart

JLS                      

I'm Already There
Umbrella

Eoghan Quigg      

Does Your Mother Know
Year 3000

Diana Vickers     

Girlfriend
White Flag

SHOW STARTS:

Eoghan is up first and he's rockin' out to the Year 3000! Choreographer Brian Friedman has been giving him some 'McFly style' rock moves and it seems to have worked. It's energetic and young (as well as really fun) - Pretty good if I do say so myself.

Fair enough when he dances about, he loses his breath (along with a few words from the song) - but the vocal is neat and the performance has the audience on their feet!

Impartial judge Danni Minogue is overjoyed to be able to say what she REALLY thinks. "I think that performance will have a really worried a few people - These two! (She points to Cheryl and Louis.) That performance was fantastic!

Cheryl nods, "I said last week that I was worried about you for the final because you're a threat. That performance was great and I am worried, well done." Simon thinks it's all sewn up, "if that performance doesn't get you into the final then there's something seriously wrong!"

Mr Cowell also has time to commend himself! "All this is down to me really. It's young and it works, I mean if you were with Louis, you'd be in a blazer tonight singing Puppy Love!"

It's time for Diana... and I REALLY enjoyed her rendition of Girlfriend. I think she suits the whole Avril Lavigne thing and the vibe is electric. It made a great chage from the warbling and 'the claw' - Perfect song and great choreography. Did you notice? The claw turned into an arm up, claw and jump tonight. There was actually dancing! (That'll make Louis happy!)

The judges are all just as impressed as me. Simon hits the nail on the head... "Last week's songs were so old fashioned and this week the choice was perfect for you." Louis agreed that she "was back" and both Cheryl and Dannii think that that performance could put her in the final. Great comments, fingers crossed she can do the same on White Flag.

Alexandra is up next and there is a lot of pressure on her after two showstopping performances last week. Simon is concerned, "All eyes will be on this girl tonight..."

Has she peaked to early?

She performs Please Don't Strop The Music and it's a polished performance and a powerful vocal. The only time I catch my breath is when she's near choked by a red haired dancer. This girl nearly spins INTO her and I thought Alex's voice was gonna cut out when she caught a face full of hair!

Louis said that it was just as good as last week and she HAS  to be in the final. Dannii thought it was "fierce" and Simon was gushing! "If you want a British act who can represent this country across the world... I think we are seeing the birth of a star!"

Oh no, poor JLS - They're out of time at the start... Thank God they manage to pick it up - Louis looked like he was gonna have a panic attack!

When they stand together for the chorus, they bring it home and the crowd goes wild! For once Louis has actually got the production right (then again it's more likely to be Brian's doing) - I love the boppin' (and poppin') section at the end, very funky!

Cheryl agrees, "You smashed it guys! This is what I've said to you about doing big performances with great production, you cause some sort of hysteria amongst women!" Simon explains that he was worried for the boys tonight, "You pick one of the most recognised songs of the moment and turn it around, it was either stupid or brilliant and I have to say... That was brilliant!"

You pulled it back after that terrible start boys, that could have been car crash telly right there! Five gold stars for a speedy recovery!

So that's the first round overwith, who's ahead so far?

Simon thinks that it's level pegging so far, but he's sure that the second songs will split the pack.

Eoghan kicks off the proceedings with Does Your Momma Know That You're Out? by Abba (apparently he's a big fan)

It's upbeat, lively and he's keeping that McFly style going with the checks and tight kecks. I have to agree with Dannii though, this song is verging on cheesy whereas his first song gave him some credibility after all the High School Musical nonsense. "I just didn't get that song choice at all!"

Fortunately for Eoghan the other judges love it. "Take no notice to her, it's one of the best songs by one of the biggest bands in the world!"

If you ask me, Diana has had a great night and I hope she's done enough to make the final. I thought her rendition of White Flag was one of her best. Sure,  there were a few bum notes but she really concentrated on controlling the vocal. You could see her reigning it in and she coinnected with the audience too.

Simon prefered her first song as there was no 'big moment' in that one, but the other judges were more than impressed and hope she's done enough. Cheryl disregarded Simon's 'dig' and explained that she wanted Diana to be comfortable with her song choice. Simon stopped her in her tracks. "I'm not knocking you Diana, I love you - I just didn't like the song".

I have to stop now because Alex is singing Unbreak My Heart and it's one of my favourite songs. One sec...

WOW! THAT WAS FANTASTIC, I LOVED IT - GO ON GIRL!
My only critique would be that the backing track was too loud. I wanted to her ALEX'S voice, especially on the chorus. The backing vocals drowned her out in places and that was distracting and dissapointing.

Simon is in awe, "That is one of the hardest songs to sing. You've got guts. I thought you could have left this competition tonight, but I think that performance has just changed everything!" Cheryl says, "I want you in the final, but we know how unpredictable this competition is. I wouldl like to take this opportunity to thank you for making my first experience so wonderful (it almost sounds like she's saying goodbye to Alex?) - She continues, "Alex, I pray to God that we are here next week saying the same things."

JLS perform Already There and Aston is overwhelmed with emotion from the start. It means so much to these boys. His band members give him a squodge and he recovers just in time to bang out the power notes required. Even I've got a lump in my throat, these boys have been the underdogs from the beginning. Pick up your phone and give them a vote or two... Go on!

Cheryl says, "I absolutely loved it. That was my favourite ballad from you guys for the whole series. It was beautiful." ...and there's a shocker from Simon, "I know it's easy to be biased toward your own act on this show, but the last two performances (yours and Alex's) were in a different league. This is a singing competition after all. That's the first time I've seen you get emotional Aston and your bandmates supported you brilliantly. You three don't get enough credit and you were fantastic..."

    "I'm gonna make a prediction here... 
            I don't just think you could make the final 
                             - You could actually win this thing!"

Holy Harmonies Batman! What was all that about? Simon saying that two acts are in a different league to his own? Is he trying to make Eoghan the new underdog? I think so! Simon's not soft... he always has an agenda.

Who should make the final?
Leave your comments...

Back soon for the results...

Selena x  

THE RESULTS:

WHO WILL FALL AT THE FINAL HURDLE?

If you ask me, I think it will be Eoghan or JLS tonight, I think the girls are in the clear after two cracking performances. At the end of the day, it will be a travesty if Alex doesn't make it through and that's that - She's a star! My only quarm is that we already have Leona 'The Powerhouse' Lewis and that may put people off voting for Alex. 

The appeal with Diana is that she's different from the norm and although you can find thousands of girls with her style (in student unions across the country), she does have quirky little sounds flying out of her.

So who's going? The results are in.

Through to next week's final are...
(God the suspense is killing me, come on Dermot!)

JLS!
...Alexandra,
and Eoghan!

DIANA IS OUT PEOPLE!

OH MY GOD. I'M SO SHOCKED!
I really didn't see that coming...

(That must be so hard for Eoghan, he's best friends with Diana and he's in floods of tears. It's bittersweet... One minute you're being told you're through to the final, but it means your friends dreams are shattered!)

Then again I say that, but I think Simon will sign Diana anyway... Maybe that's why she didn't get the votes tonight? I thought her performances were cracking.

Before she performs White Flag one last time, she takes the time to thank everyone who has supported her (including Cheryl). Cheryl is in tears, but doesn't think this is the last we'll see of Diana. "I'm so proud of her!"

Diana sings the final line of her swan song and as the remaining contestants embrace her, she bursts into tears! Alex admits that she's gobsmacked, "I thought she (Diana) was gonna win - I'm stunned." Dermot can't get two words out of Eoghan, he's inconsolable.

Bye Diana, you were a little smasher.

So there you go...
It's down to Alex, JLS and Eoghan.

Should Diana have left??
Who should have gone in her place?
...and who will win The X Factor?

Leave your comments...

Selena x

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

Song Choices Revealed!

 
Here are the songs for tonight's show:
 

Alexandra Burke 

Don't Stop The Music
Unbreak My Heart

JLS                      

I'm Already There
Umbrella

Eoghan Quigg      

Does Your Mother Know
Year 3000

Diana Vickers     

Girlfriend
White Flag

Personally, I think Alexandra's choices are pure genius. I'll be interested to hear what JLS do with Umbrella and I'm a little worried that Diana's songs are too big for her. White Flag is such a tough song.

I love Year 3000 and think that's a great choice for Eoghan, it's fun and quirky (which is much more the way he should be going - rather than ruddy High School Musical. I mean HSM is just pure cheese!)

So what do you think?

Take a look and let me know who'll be heading home tonight... Leave your comments.

Selena x

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

December 05

Contestant & Judges Choice...

 
This week, the contestants have the opportunity to pick their own song. They have a chance to give a personalised performance, one which they feel shows off their full potential!
 
Lovely eh? Yeah, but then comes the sting as they also have to perform a 'judges choice' and this could literally be anything. The song the judges choose will be designed to test each contestant and push them to the limit. How much will they be able to take? 
 
Once again there's no sing-off and  it's all down to you when all the contestants have performed... The judges may choose the song, but they have no say about the finalists. Who will hit the right note and who will  fall flat?
 
Who do you think should make the final?
 
In other news, there has been some concern about when the show airs this week (thanks for your emails).

I've had these details confirmed, so here they are:
 
This week, the main X Factor show is on ITV1 at the earlier time of 7pm. The results show will be on ITV1 in a special one-off timeslot of 8.45 - 9.15pm. That's when the final three will be revealed!
 
Song list to come...
 
Selena x
 
The I'm A Celebrity Final is tonight!
Join us for the LIVE Blog - 
Click here...

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

 

Gossip From The House


So this time next week the final will be looming! Who's holding strong and who's buckling under the pressure?

Here's the gossip from the X Factor House...
 
Eoghan Quigg
 
Eoghan is still really chilled about everything with his X Factor experience even though it is semi final week.  He wants to win and bring The X Factor back to Ireland.  He is excited about his songs this week, but is now starting to miss home and is looking forward to going home for Christmas to see all his friends and family.  Earlier in the week, he and Diana went to the cinema to watch ‘Four Christmas’s’ to get them in the festive mood.
 
JLS
 
JLS know that this week could be the most important performance they give and they can’t fail, they so want to be in the final and intend to make sure each performance has the ‘JLS Flava’ this week!.  They are happy with there songs this week – both their choice and the Judge’s choice of song.  All week, girls have gathered outside The X Factor house to see them and post fan letters through the door – the boys certainly have the female vote!. Proving they are true gentlemen, they always take the time to talk to all their fans.  Marvin is treating this week like its the final.
 
Alexandra Burke
 
Alexandra is starting to feel the pressure now as she really wants to be in the final.  She is happy with her song choices and has another big routine from Brian.  After the great feed back she got from last week’s performances she is feeling more pressure for this week. 
 
Alexandra feels lost without Ruth but she has been so busy this week that she hasn’t had much time in the house to be on her own.  She went with Diana to see Cheryl record ITV’s The Girls Aloud Party earlier in the week and the whole audience were screaming for both of them and she loved every minute of it.  Since Ruth has left she is always the first ready and first down the stairs in the morning.  Alexandra went out for Dinner with Jimmy Choo earlier in the week as he’d like to design her a shoe.  This is because Beverley Knight was holding a picture of Alex (she knows Alex’s mum) and Jimmy Choo was impressed with what he saw. (If you're a woman you know how cool that is) - I have Jimmy Choos, but I would LOVE my own pair designed... How fantastic! Never mind Alex, are you ready for me Jimmy?
 
Diana Vickers
 
Diana finds the press she’s been getting about her hand funny, she is happy with her songs and she wants to give a performance like she was giving at the beginning of the show, she is also looking forward to having a dance routine with one her songs.  Diana and Alexandra went to see Cheryl record ITV’s The Girls Aloud Party on Tuesday night and she was totally star struck, she loved every minute of it – she couldn’t believe the audience were screaming for herself and Alex.  Diana was so excited when she came home as James Morrison had waved to her and she absolutely loves him.  She remains the messiest in the house!
 
More soon...

Selena x
 
Fan of I'm A Celebrity? Love blogs? Click here...

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

December 04

Beyonce Performing At The Final?

 
As avid X Factor fans (like myself), you'll all know that the finalists usually perform with a star (as part of the finale). Last year it was Kylie and Leon and rumour has it that if Alexandra makes the final, it could be Alex and Beyonce!
 
YES -BEYONCE!
 
Beyonce Knowles - PA Photos
 
It's reported that Simon Cowell is trying to strike a deal with Beyonce's management as we speak. Fingers crossed that Alex can make the final, as that would be a cracking performance - wouldn't it?
 
Alexandra is also reeling from the news that she is now the bookies favourite to win.
 
Whilst attending a secret gig (for competition winners), Alex was quick to comment - "It's very, very scary. I got that news yesterday. It actually shocked me as I wasn't expecting that."
 
ITV/Rex Features
 
I have two words people... GO ALEX!
 
I just love that girl!
(Oh bum, that's seven words!)
 
Never mind, more soon...
Selena x
 
Fan of I'm A Celebrity? Love blogs? Click here...

Are you a member of facebook?
Click here to become a fan of/chat about MSN Reality TV Blogs
 

Selena Ledgerton Cooper MSN X Factor

Selena Ledgerton Cooper
MSN Reality TV Blogger

Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Bot to your IM contacts:

Bookmark with:
Share this post using Digg Digg  Share this post using del.icio.us del.icio.us  Share this post using Reddit Reddit 
Share this post using Facebook Facebook  Share this post using Newsvine Newsvine  Share this post using StumbleUpon StumbleUpon 

 
 
 
 
December 02

X Factor Secret Performance!

 
Click here to read all about the fab four's secret show!
 
 
More soon...

Selena x
 

Search MSN X Factor Blog

Loading...
Photo 1 of 10

Visit This X Factor Blog On Your Mobile

Point your mobile phone's browser to: http://xfactorblog.mobile.spaces.live.com

Welcome to the MSN X-Factor Blog Guestbook!
Feel free to leave your comments here and chat with me during the LIVE show.

Please note that:

OFFENSIVE MESSAGES WILL BE DELETED
NO LINKS
NO EMAIL ADDRESSES
NO SWEARING
NO FLOODING WITH THE SAME COMMENT

AND PLEASE DO NOT INCITE OR ABUSE OTHERS...

LET'S KEEP IT ABOUT THE SHOW PLEASE...
This is a family blog with young people visiting.

This blog is monitored by MSN UK - Though if you see an offensive post OR wish to report an offensive poster, please follow the instructions in the moderation box on the left of this blog. Moderators will then take appropriate action.

Please wait...
Sorry, the comment you entered is too long. Please shorten it.
You didn't enter anything. Please try again.
Sorry, we can't add your comment right now. Please try again later.
To add a comment, you need permission from your parent. Ask for permission
Your parent has turned off comments.
Sorry, we can't delete your comment right now. Please try again later.
You've exceeded the maximum number of comments that can be left in one day. Please try again in 24 hours.
Your account has had the ability to leave comments disabled because our systems indicate that you may be spamming other users. If you believe that your account has been disabled in error please contact Windows Live support.
Complete the security check below to finish leaving your comment.
The characters you type in the security check must match the characters in the picture or audio.
Chriswrote:
 X Factor 2009 - Auditons
 
Well, having arrived at Cardiff stadium before the 8am start time, we heard on the radio that the day was in fact OPEN auditions, which essentially meant that having pre-applied and been selected to attend the audition meant absolutely NOTHING as every Tom, Dick and Davith, could just turn up and auditon. There was no organisation to speak of on arrival, other than being hearded, litterally like sheep, into metal "pens" to join a queue of thousands of people along the river walkway. After standing outside of the stadium in this queue and being cold, bored and rained on, at about 11am, we were treated to a visit by Dermot O'Leary, who is in fact a midget with the personality of a walnut. After a further hour of staged groud scenes being filmed and an attempt to make eveyone look as though they werent completely peed off already, we were marched into the stadium at about 12 noon.

Once inside, it all started again. We were moved from side to side, and then the STAGED crowd scenes were started again inside, where people were told what to shout, how to wave their arms, and when to do it for the best effect of the camera crew.

At this point, I think a few of the more sensible people were becoming a little suspicious of just what was going to be in store for the rest of the day.

At approx 1pm, the auditions FINALLY got under way. Now bear in mind we had been asked to be there by 08.00am at the latest and some FOUR HOURS later, we were actually seeing some signs of life of the whole reason we were there.

Now the auditons were all held in the open arena. Imagine if you will being at a live footbal match and being sat in the stands adjacent to the touchline. The small area of ground that runs between the touchline and the seats is where there were 17 "booths" constructed.

Well one says constructed, they were in fact 4 metal frames covered with black sheet plastic ( a bit like bin liners) and formed into a kind of three sided rectangle. Inside each booth was a "judge" - I'll come back to that in a minute!!!
Over the next SIX hours, we sat, we listened to other auditonees, we saw what was going in and what was coming out. We got numb bums, bored, jelly brained and to sum it up, completely and utterly peed off with the lack of organisation of the whole thing.

Before we even go to do our audition I had told my other half that  I didnt want to be there anymore and just wanted to go home.

Now the judges - - - The X Factor has a multi stage process before you get to see the "Real" judges. Everything you see on TV is completely staged and pre-selected by the production crew.

Stage One (the one we were at) - The judging was being done by the junior production crew. Who you would like to think knew when something was reasonable or not.

Stage Two (the following day) - judging done by the Executive Production crew, presumably just a step thrown in there to make sure the juniors have made the "appropriate choices".

Stage Three (The main judges) - The first time the Televised auditons are carried out and the first time the Simon Cowell, and other judges have seen ANYONE.

Now this may sound like sour grapes, but honestly it's not. Both myself and my friend were sooooooooo ANGRY at not getting through this basic round of auditions, not because we were crap, because if we were, we would have got through!!! - But more because the "judge", and yes we both had the same one, was not the slightest bit interested in what our voices were like, from the second we stepped around the corner.

He was completely arrogant, resisted any eye contact, defensive body language and other than saying "Its a no I'm afraid" could not justify his decision any further.

I at least bit back at him by saying "Oh well, Its your loss mate" and walking away from him. After standing and sitting around for NINE hours, I wasnt about to let that little so and so have the last word now was I.

If anyone is every thinking of entering the competition, I would advise you not too. Its a complete set up from start to finish and really not worthy of a normal person wasting their time on.

Having been sat there for so long, there was a clear pattern of who was being put through to the next round and who wasnt. A system of "golden tickets" was being used. If you got one, you were through to the next round and would go to "Wille W*NKERS Chocolate factory), run by the producers the next day.

So we sat there and sat there and here was the pattern.

Pretty Boy goes in can sing = Will get a golden ticket - Correct !
Pretty Boy goes in CANT sing = Will get a golden ticket - Correct !
Barbie Doll goes in can sing = Will get a golden ticket - Correct !
Barbie Doll goes in CANT sing - Will get a golden ticket - Correct !
Ordinary person goes in, can sing = NO CHANCE - Correct ! Predicable
Oridnary person goes in, cant sing = Will get a golden ticket - Correct !!
Freak goes in can sing = Will get a golden ticket - Correct !
Freak goes in cant sing = Will get a goledn ticket - Correct !

So, as you can see, if you could predict the lottery as easily as you could predict the outcome of the auditions, I would be a very rich man.

So in a nutshell, if you are a pretty boy, and barbie doll, or a complete freak, then you are guanteed to get through the first round. From there, the executive producers, (the guys who want us to vote and provide them with great viewing figures) will then weed the dumb, hung and strange down to the most extreme in each category, before thrusting them in front of the TV cameras for the first televised edition of what one sees.

Cast your mind back to las year, when there was an old guy on there who came on to play the spoons. Now, bear in mind, he will have already been through TWO days of auditions with the Production team and the executive production team before even being considered for the televised auditions!!

As yourself therefore, how the hell did someone who though he was on Britains Got Talent, appear on the X Factor, when he had no vocal part of his audition at all - Answer? = Because the producers thought it would make for good viewing.

The two guys from Wales last year (The rappers?) How did they get through thousands of people to the live auditons, because they were SOoooooo shit, the producers knew that in the coming months, they would be able to get web site hits, U tube, Phone downloads (sponsored by Talk Talk remember) and increase viewing figures. And they did!

Now I am glad that I had the experience of going to X Factor, but what it has done, is taught me that the show is NOT based on talent, it is a freek show that gets the viewing figures and the if you are blessed with BOTH good looks and talent, then there is a chance that you will get somewhere in the competition.

I know Im no oil painting, and I take comfort in the fact that as I didnt get through, I obviously cant be a freek either, so thats a good thing.

Can I just say a big thank you to everyone that supported me in the group and personally, and Im sorry that X Factor production team have a hidden agenda to construct and pre-determine the show from the outset, which unfortunately has wasted everyone's time.

XXX

Suffice it to say that X Factor will not be watched in our house after that!

Apr. 26
kirstywrote:
hi you do msn
Apr. 5
i just want to say that i loved ruth and Alexandra! thy were so good and powerfull loved them! but that juet that Alexandra did with beyonce i was like WOW! i went all cold it was just so good  first i wanted ruth to win a then Aexandra just started to grow on me and the song in the final haleujah! what made her win just blow  me a way she is a star and she did have the X factor im so glad that she won all the X factor finals were good but she just made it if you read this ruth and Alaxandra could i  have your email address i wold love to have you as my friends on MSN,AND FACEBOOK!   keep the good work up Alexandra your a star and ruth you will be there one day you have a good voice dont give up.xx
Jan. 17
Glynwrote:
Hi no-name...
   No problem.  I'll be blatantly honest but I'm not exactly the greatest fan in the world of 'reality TV.' It comes across as  a case of program making on the cheap! Nevertheless I must admit the X factor was pretty darned close to 'compulsive viewing.' Yes, Diana didn't need the OTT dance routines that Louis Walsh kept whining about. EVERY BLOOMING WEEK. It was so nice to see JLS doing big dance routines...... Oh I'm sorry... NOT doing them!! Of course the dancing is absolutely Vital to be an ace performer:-  Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Paul Potts,  99% of the last 5 decades. Shoot me if I lay it on a bit thick but I must be losing it in my old age as I don't recall too many of the most famous singers in the world body popping to White Christmas etc!
  Unfortunately up to a point Louis is right. He just didn't word it very well. On stage there HAS to be something visual, otherwise you may as well just buy the record/cd. Pink Floyd were like statues on stage but made up for it with a fantastic light show. There are ways round not being a dancer. It will be interesting to see Diana when she finally gets touring. See you there!
Jan. 12
No namewrote:
Hi Glyn,
i do not know if you will see this comment now as it is harder to find this page.
loved your reading of the contestants and so true.
The show is called the X FACTOR and only DIANA showed that she had it, allthough she needs to believe in herself more as she was very nervous and it did affect her preformance.
i was never interested in her dancing on the show, as i loved seeing her facial features and eyes during a song as she was able to convey the emotions of the song via them.
DIANA has lovely eyes, and i noticed that that feature of hers was nulified by the makeup artists on her last show by the very heavy black liner under her eyes
others on the show required to do routines to cover up for poor singing and the fact that they had no stage presence.
for DIANA it was just herself mainly, and that is the way that i wanted it to be as she did have stage presence.
thank you GLYN for taking the time to answer my post.
Jan. 11
Glynwrote:
Hi No-Name... 
  I've posted comments before, (in my usual scathing, sarcastic and too close to the truth way) about the timing of the X Factor. It really is no more than one HUGE advertising campaign in order to secure the Xmas No 1. It probably costs a small fortune to get that primetime slot every saturday night when the majority of tv watchers are in: and 'Oh what a surprise' it ends exactly right for the Xmas release of the winners single. Luckily it has all been paid for umpteen times over already by the 1000s of phone voters! Yes, the Xmas No 1 is the only one worth getting as it generates the most sales. Always has been.
  My view of the contestants? Diana 1000% YES... Alexandra? Strongish voice but soooo boring. All the personality of a dead ferret!
The rest....I'm really in 2 minds about JLS. Louis realised that Aston was the only, or best, singer. Consequently he pushed him to the fore and put the rest of the group on backing. This changed them from Westlife2 into a 70's motown band.They were exellent at it but is there a call for that these days? I like variety so I think it would be a nice change.
  Eoghan? I couldn't warm to this guy at all I'm afraid. The kiddie choirs and High school/fame stuff was too much. Especially as the High school musical film was currently doing the rounds. It seemed like a touch of jumping on the bandwagon, rather than picking the right song. It probably gained him more votes than losing them though. I didn't like the constant drowning out of the vocals, (this applies to ALL the contestants). Maybe a future plan would be to have an Acoustic week. One Voice, One Unplugged Guitar. Simon Cowell take note!
  Ruth I liked. Then again I like rock more than pop and even when she was accused of shouting I thought she was pretty decent... Rachel, Pleeaase. A gangsters moll with 10 kids, 15 of which she's never seen, 3 wooden legs riddled with terminal woodworm, pays to go to work and supports 12 dead relatives!!! Okay sarcasm aside she wasn't too bad at what she did.. At least when she sang the right songs. The sob stories (yes I know she wasn't the only one) were at best nauseating. I guess it put more people off than made them want to vote for her. Unfortunately she came across to me as a poor Tina Turner, and it was unlikely that one of the 'over 35 and been around the block a few times too many' brigade would win. The same goes for Daniel... The younger voters; and I presume there are more youngsters buying CDs these days than older people, wont warm to him. Okay, he may have looked like Ricky (who the hell said he was funny) Gervais, but I think even HE knew he could never win.
  The 'boy' singers? And I forget their names but that doesn't matter. Personality free zones. You need to have something extra (the 'X' factor) that shines through, and this can even happen while you're singing, not just in interviews. Just watch Aston from JLS. None of the other male singers this year (sorry 'last' year) looked like they had it.
  To be honest the best part of the whole final HAD to be the out and out losers song. After all the Alexandra,Cheryl etc weeks of tears and crying I finally had some thing that had tears running down my face!! Excellent. Funniest thing ever. I just wish they'd brought Ariel (D'ya wanna hear me rooaar) back in with them too. Was I the only one who thought she could sing??
   At the end of the day though this is just one persons opinion. Anyone who disagrees, well that's fine. whoever does well from the series, good luck to them all. I shall return to my Cradle of filth,Slipknot  and Clannad CDs.
Jan. 5
No namewrote:
Hi Glyn,
I would be interested in your opinion of the other singers in the X factor series, if you have time.
I should say that the X FACTOR is specialy timed for christmas as thats when most cds are bought, so i suppose it makes sense to run it to coincide with christmas to get the best sales possible, plus more people are at home during the darker nights.
Jan. 5
No namewrote:
Hi Glyn,
I agree that it would be nice to get away from the X FACTOR record at christmas and on to real christmas records.
And you are correct about NOBBY shouting ( just as well he wasn't in a singing competition ) but his songs were fun which anyone could sing at parties.
The small piece of DIANA'S version of hallelujah was realy good because of her accent and dictation which made her sound french and it sounded very sexy,
 where as BUCKLEYS version sounded very sensual which is probably more in keeping with the song.
I did hear someone else singing it really good (cannot remember his name) but it was not the shriek singer.
ALEXANDRA'S version is just a well sung song but nothing special about it, as she does not convey any feeling in it.
Would i buy diana's version, i think the answer is yes, allthough i do not think her recorded version would have matched her bootcamp version as i believe
that once the sound engineers had got to work on it, it would have lost the special effect of her accent and dictation.
Normaly i do not buy cds/albums anymore, but it does not matter what DIANA brings out, i will buy it as i enjoyed listening to her on the X FACTOR,
 and you could say it is my way of saying thank you to DIANA.
The one thing i did notice about week 8, was that as DIANA walked to the centre after she finnished singing NOT A GIRL NOT YET A WOMAN,
she was happy with her preformance, but all the judges attacked her, LOUIS - you never dance, DANNIE - it was bitty, SIMON - it did not work,
 and even CHERLE's comment - its the best that i have ever heard her sing that song, it all sounded to me like a concerted put down of DIANA.
For me it was well crafted, girly at the start, slightly higher in the middle and womanly at the end, and i watched BRITNEYS version which was the
same level all the way through, all though i did not like the song choice as it did not show of the tone/edge of DIANA'S voice and that type of song was
 not DIANA'S style, allthough it did showed that her voice is sweet on the low notes.
Is it not funny how CHERLE got from week 6, all of ALEXANDRA'S song choices right and DIANA'S wrong or hard.
Week 6 - never never, thank goodness DIANA stood her ground and sung yellow, allthough the judges critisised the choice ?.
Week 7 - patience, a very hard song to sing, music drowned her voice out on the tv but not on the vidio ?.  DIANA sang it very well apart from the couple of hicups.
Week 8 - not a girl, not yet a woman, on the tv sounded a bit rough as if the sound engineers did not do their work, sounds a lot better on the vidio?.
Week 8 - everybody hurts, DIANA sang it quite well considering that she was upset about the comments about her other song, but it was not a great
 choice of song for her voice.
Week 9 - girlfriend, hard song to sing live, impossible to do a good routine to and sing, all though DIANA did well at it, listen to simons comments on it
and you can see at the end he was going to say something but changed his wording ?.
Week 9 - white flag, poor choice of song, sounded rough on tv and better on the vidio again ? plus her face was distorted on the tv ?,and you could not see the feeling
she was puting into the song.
Yes, i do question what went on after week 5, but nothing can be changed now and i do hope that she gets a recording contract.
One of DIANA'S special fearures is that she does manage to convey her feelings through her face/eyes/voice.
She also listened very carefully to what the judges were saying and took it to heart.
Yes, i think there is a lot more to come from DIANA in the future, with the correct songs and managment and a bit more training.
 
Jan. 5
Glynwrote:
No name... I doubt whether anyone has reported Ayeshah's posts. I have reported 3 times about Habib Ullahs post 6 DAYS AGO for containing the F word and it hasn't been removed!
  I must admit, even if Diana was singing Hallelujah in the charts I doubt I'd buy it. Give me a good old feel good Xmas song reminiscent of the 70's anyday, rather than such a boring dirge! Bring back the likes af Slades 'Merry Xmas Everybody.' YES Noddy Holder had a voice like gravel, YES Noddy Holder Shouted, and YES it was still 1000 times better than this years No 1.
Jan. 5
No namewrote:
It just so happens that i viewed all the contestant singing on the vidios many times and was suprised to see that ALEX. was miming.
As for ALEX, i thought that she put on the best stage routines of all the preformers, notice i do not call it dance routines as none of them danced.
As for her singing she was the best of all of them for the high notes, listen being her best song by far as it suited her voice perfectly.
It was her low notes that let her down because her basic voice is more suited to soul music and it tended to sound one level and boring to listen to.
As to the miming, yes i am not happy about that as it was unfair to all the other contestants that it was allowed/ not mentioned by the judges.
For me, RUTH was probably the more complete singer, but let her self down with the shouting in her rock songs.
All the singers had faults, be they covered up by loud music or other means, but no others resorted to miming to he backing singers.
I notice that a lot of your posts are disappearing, is that you deleting them or is someone reporting them, and before you ask, its not me.
 
 
Jan. 5
Ayeshahwrote:
Just because I'm happy Alex won and wasn't fond of Diana don't mean I have hate in my life.  In that case no name, you must also have a lot of hate in your life as you're still going on about the fact that Alex was apparently "miming" her way through parts of the competition.  I don't care if Alex was miming.  I couldn't give a flying monkeys, so if you wanna bring it up I really couldn't care less!!!!  And yes the contest is over so why are you still on here going on about Alex miming???  I think you should think before you start slagging me off!!!
Jan. 4
No namewrote:
yes, you have a lot of hate in you because you continue to slag other singers even though the contest is over.
So your not happy at some one pulling up your favorite for what they did and were allowed to do.
 
 
Jan. 4
Ayeshahwrote:
No name, I'll have you know I have a lot of love in my life.  Why do you think I have hate?  I'm happy, the girl I wanted to win the show WON.  It's you who is hating, studying video's extra carefully, looking for some sort of conspiracy and reason to cuss off Alex.  I have not watched the video's nor do I intend to.  What will we gain from it?  nothing.  What's done is done and so what if she was miming, it's not gonna change the fact that she's won.  Now leave me alone for goodness sake!!!
Jan. 4
No namewrote:
Your getting touchy now, TUT TUT.
you seem to forget that you responded first,  YAWN, ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ, and i assume that you have now looked at the vidios of ALEXANDRA miming and you do not want to admit it.
you are correct the result cannot be changed, but at least people will know what was done.
Apart from that you appear to have a lot of hate in your life.
 
Jan. 4
No namewrote:
Not as far fetched as you may think.
Ask yourself how did they stop JLS fron singing umberella in the final, which was by far their best preformance of the whole series.
They say that RIHANNA is going to preform umberella with JLS in the final, so as their final song they opt for the song that they sang in the semi's which the judges over praised in the semi's, see the standing ovation.
At the last moment they say that RIHANNA cannot appear due to her having to reherse for her other show, and it is to late for them to change their final song as they have not been rehersing it fully, and they only have time to reherse the song that they will sing with westlife.
In the semi's JLS polled more votes than ALEXANDRA because of their rendition of umberella.
Very neatly worked out for ALEXANDRA to win.
 
Jan. 4
No namewrote:
Have a look at ALEXANDRA SINGING "DON'T STOP THE MUSIC" carefully and at the point when the lower vocals start you can see it quite clearly.
The movement that is going on at the time actualy distracts you from spotting that she is miming at that point.
Do not be in denial for your precious ALEXANDRA.
 
Jan. 4
omg omg omg, how hard are they trying to fix the show, we know itz one already but that is beyond stupid!
Jan. 4
No namewrote:
By the way in regards to halleluya being the winners song and it having been picked with DIANA being the winner in mind.
This is compleatly wrong, as i believe DIANA had said to CHERLE that she wanted to sing it on the week that her choice came up.
As the whole show from the start had been built around ALEXANDRA winning, the producers could not let it happen knowing that DIANA was so good at it, therefor they had ALEXANDRA sing the song in a secret session to find out if she could sing it.
Having done this and seen that ALEXANDRA could do a passable rendition, they then informed everybody that it was going to be the winners song, there by stopping DIANA from using it on week 9.
Jan. 4
At last, you people know real talent when it hits you in the nose. Diana,, was my fave to win from audition one, not just the live shows,, her 'warbling' was actually quite nice on some of the songs, it created feeling and passion,, well it for me anyway. Ruth,, well withdrraw my statement,, maybe you dont,, Ruth, \well I was glad when she went,, she got on my nerves, Simon's right,, its a British talent competition AND her shouting completely killed my ears sometimes.
 
Everyone's impressed ((well except me of course)) with Alexandra's and Beyonce's duet, and yes he was really good, oh no, don't get m rong, not Alexandra, for heaven's sake no, Beyonce, she was good. Being famous has gone to Alex's sweet little head, she thinks she's a little Beyonce,, no way, that duet just showed us how LITTLE potential Alex has next to big stars, such as Beyonce! Alexandra performing Silent Night, was almost sad,, in a way. I'd rather listen to a choir sing it, and speaking of that, ALEXANDRA CAN NOT PERFORM LOW NOTES!!
 
Yes you can sort out 'odd' vocals in a live show, but not if it's pure accident, like Glyn sed, but the sound guys are aware of this and know they have to change it,, when a performer hits a 'odd' note by accident and they have no awareness of it,, I'm afraid the star has to suffer.
 
 
Leona Lewis........... hmm what can I say,, I didn't like her version of run,, she has ruined Rihannas Take a Bow and various other songs. I used to be in awe of her, but like Alexandra,, being famous has gone to her head aswell, she now remixes (and ruins) original versions of songs that I was oncce in awe of.
 
It would be nice to be a singer, but there is no way,, I would ever EVER,, let Leona ruin one of them,, my song would be MY SONG, i wouldn't let her touch it!
Jan. 4
Glynwrote:
There's a big hole waiting to be filled for a female rock singer in the music charts and has been for some time. Ruth would be ideal I reckon. She may shout at times but in my opinion that can actually add to the song and create feeling. To make a small point..... Yes you can sort out dodgy vocals live. Listen to Cher's 'Believe' for the electronic sounding vocal. Britney certainly used it on Toxic, as did Alexandra, and Victoria 'posh spice' Beckham used it on a whole track. Blissfully I have forgot the title. It's the one where she says at the end that this song is gonna hurt you! The music is programmed and a midi-file has the vocal track data on. The signal is sent to a vocoder and anything sung into it through the mike hey presto comes out in tune. You don't seriously believe the Flying Pickets reached the high notes on 'Only you' do you? As for Warbling, AYESHEA OPEN YOUR EARS. Listen to Alexandra... EVERY LINE SHE FINISHES WITH A DOZEN NOTES. If that's not warbling what is??? I totally agree Diana has potential to go worldwide. She needs the right songs though and not just Karaoke covers, Heaven forbid. We'll see in a few weeks time when (hopefully) the rest of the x factor finalists contracts are over and they will be allowed to release their own discs. I reckon JLS will do okay but my money is on Diana all the way!
Jan. 4
No namewrote:
I looked up the vidio of LEONA singing BLEEDING HEART live and was not impressed at all.
YES, on the record she is fantastic, but live not.
Same goes with RUN, all i can say is that in a studio you can sort out problems, but live you cannot.
In LEONA'S style of singing we have no equal in britain, of that there is no question.
DIANA'S does not sing in LEONA'S style, but the potential is greater in my opinion, but she has to reach her full potential to overtake LEONA.
remember also that LEONA was a recording and performing artist before she went on the x factor, where as DIANA only sung in local tallent competitions and in school shows.
I should have said that with further training and the correct songs DIANA could go world wide if handled properly but at this time she is just raw tallent.
 
RUTH, i allways classed as a very good opera style singer, but on the x factor they persuaded her that rock was her forte, but unfortunatly she tended to shout in parts of her songs which i thought was her undoing.
For the couple of weeks before she was eliminated she was receiving more votes that ALEXANDRA so she did have a strong following, but possibly SIMONS comment about it being a british competition did not help.
 
Jan. 4
No namewrote:
Hey Ayeshah, you would not like to comment on the posts about Alexandra miming to what the backing singers were singing.
Remember to look carefully at the vidios first before you comment, we don't want you to make more of a fool of yourself than you allready have done.
Yes. she can add miming to her very small list of tallent.
 
Jan. 3
Rowlandwrote:
I agree, Diana was different and more distinctive than Alex who is good but is not in the same league as Leona.  Now my personal choice was Ruth, but reading the comment about some historical rockers, I think it's time we had a stronger male who can stand with the likes of Essex, Stewart etc
Jan. 3
Glynwrote:
The problem with the X Factor is that voters tend to go with the strongest voice. That always makes me wonder why they don't just wire all the contestants up to a machine which could then pick out who is exactly in tune and choose the best? The X factor is just that. It is whoever has that certain something that sets them apart from the rest... NOT SOUNDING JUST LIKE ALL THE REST. Diana had it. Alexandra never will! Dianas voice was too different for Alexandra fans to open their mind (and their ears) to. Her voice wavered a lot and was sometimes a little off key. However, some of the most popular singers over the last few decades could not sing live to save their lives! Alice Cooper was awful, yet packed out concert halls everywhere. No-one could say Ozzy Osbourne ever had a good voice, but he fitted perfectly with what he did and sold records by the millions. Without the likes of Bjork, Kate Bush, David Essex, Steve Harley, Geddy Lee (Rush), and countless more, the music industry would have died years ago. These are singers that you could recognise instantly. Their voices were distinctive and didn't sound like anyone else. Never have and never will. Alexandra is typical of most bandwagon jumpers. Nothing original. Can't play an instrument, can't write and is destined to join the never ending line of Karaoke singers blandly covering songs that have already been done to death by all and sundry. None as good as the originals. I look forward to Diana releasing something hopefully an awful lot better than the mind numbing Hallelujah!
Jan. 2
No namewrote:
I am glad that DIANA did not win the x factor, as at this time she is still imature.
Do not get me wrong, as i believe that she was the most tallented of the 12 finalists.
Her rendtion of YELLOW was fantastic, the tone just correct and it was better than coldplays version, even though she was still ill, and i think that coldplay's version was great.
I played all of the original singers songs and compared them to DIANA'S versions and she is better in all cases, though still a bit raw.
She is probably the most tallented singer ever to be on the x factor, and that includes LEONA who is a great singer.
The problem with DIANA is that she did not have enough experience behind her and got very nervous preforming, hence the hiccupy vocals at times.
Why has so many people written rubbish about her, its called the fear factor, pick on the hands/bare feet anything at all.
 
Of the three finalists, JLS should have won.
ALEXANDRA is a fake, who mimed to the backing singers voices on many of her songs, pretending that she was singing the low parts when all she could do was sing high notes.
EOGHAN was just a joke, allthough he could be a good childrens entertainer.
Jan. 2

MSN In Concert

Loading...Loading...

Feed

The owner hasn't specified a feed for this module yet.