X Factor Live Shows Week 5

It's the halfway point of the live shows and, by now, we should be settling in. Every week, things should be getting more predictable and the results should be expected. And yet, this has been probably the most turbulent week (or two) in X Factor history.

Following on from the renaming of Little Mix, the resignation of a band member from The Risk and the immediate replacement of him, the absence of judge and Girls mentor, Kelly, and then the shock loss of Sophie Habibis (all in week's blog), this week we had a double elimination that continued to reinforce the fact that no-one is safe, and then the shock exit of Frankie Cocozza from the show. But more on that later. First, a run down of this week's performances.

This week, I was most saddened to say goodbye to Johnny. I find him entertaining and his charm and joy is infectious. However, he's not quite X Factor material so it was inevitable that he would leave sooner or later. Not only was he first to perform this week, and therefore vulnerable for that reason, I felt his performance was weaker than in past weeks. The staging was great and he looked fantastic on stage, and ever more comfortable when performing, but the first of the two songs in his mash-up didn't really work for me. You Spin Me Round was much better and it was a shame that he didn't just do this and skip Hung Up. As for Kitty this week, I also felt her performance fell a little flat. There is nothing better than a nice bit of Madonna, but Kitty murdered Like a Prayer. She doesn't have the best voice in the world, in particular her vibrato (the pleasant wobbly sound, for the uninitiated) is very forced and fast. It's distracting and I would much rather she just sang a clean note than force a vibrato. I also hated the staging. It annoys me a little that Kitty feels the need to prance around in her underwear every week. Having said that, she is a good commercial act, so the decision to keep her in over Johnny, was the right one. Part of me would rather have seen Johnny stay though.

Moving on to Kelly's lovely Girls, Janet was second in the line-up and committed the ultimate sin of performing - she forgot the words! Having said that, I strongly disagree with the feedback from the judges. I really enjoyed her performance. It was an excellent song choice that suited her quirky voice. I also loved the styling this week, with the softer make-up and hair. There's only one thing about Janet that continues to irritate me (and others that I know of) and it's her general attitude. She always seems miserable and the comment on the show about not wanting to dance because it detracts from the music is just pompous nonsense. I just wish she'd have a bit of fun for a change, because I want to have fun when I watch her. As for Misha B, now there's a girl who knows how to have fun on stage, and I always enjoy her performances. She did one of my favourite songs too - Proud Mary - and did a big song the justice it deserved. Win or not, Misha B is going to be an X Factor success story.

The other casualty in this week's double elimination was The Risk. After the last minute changes of the previous week, they were probably under the most pressure to bring it to the stage this week. The sad thing is that they did bring it. But unfortunately as successful as Night to Remember was as a performance, it just wasn't memorable. I had to go back and watch it YouTube to remind myself what they sung and it was only watching it back that I realised just how good it was. What a shame. But at this stage, every act has to do their best to stand out against the competition, because not doing so will cost you your place on the show, as it did for The Risk. The other remaining group in the contest, Little Mix, had a tough song, and if I'm honest, the vocal wasn't that great this week, it certainly wasn't as good as The Risk, so perhaps it's a bit unfair that they stayed and the boys went. However, I can't help but like them and, unlike The Risk, their performance was memorable. I do think they have a long way to go, I they want to survive future votes. Their harmonies are weak and when they sing in unison it's even worse because the sound is muddled and clashy (probably because they are not actually in unison, are supposed to be in harmony and there are harmonies on the backing). I love my Little Mix girls, but it's time for them to up their game.

Finally, the Boys - my favourite category! Craig Colton was a revelation this week. This should have been a weak theme for him, having stuck to ballads (and quite rightly, with that type of song being his strength), but the song really suited his voice and he looked so comfortable on stage, like he was having so much fun, it was infectious. I genuinely enjoyed the performance. It's getting to the stage where I can't wait to see what he pulls out of his bag of tricks next, and where I can't separate him an Marcus - surely they must both be headed for the Final. Speaking of Marcus, he was, as usual, superb this week. This is a guy I can get exited about. He's got a great voice, he'll have a go at anything and always puts in 100%. He's fun to watch, and really enjoys being on stage. Plus, he's really cute, although that is by no means the be-all of his charms. Once again, I can't wait to see what he will do next. Rather than Misha B, surely both Craig and Marcus are headed for great careers whether they win the competition or not.

As for Frankie (who gets a paragraph all of his own), what a naughty boy and what a vile performance. The least deserving of his place in terms of his vocal ability, I am glad that he's gone from the show, although I wish it had been by public vote and not because of his behaviour. I understand why Gary chose Frankie to go into the show, and I understand why he was still there, but his performance on Saturday was terrible. He was shouting rather than singing and was just walking around the stage rather than performing. The rumours that he was high at the time are hardly surprising. As for his behaviour, I hope that he will have learned from the experience. Considering the thousands of people that applied for X Factor, and the many hundreds of very talented people who weren't successful, rightly or wrongly, I can't help but feel that Frankie should have been more appreciative of the opportunity.

Thankfully, we have a chance to give one of the four acts that went out in Week 1 the opportunity to come back and be part of the X Factor again. Voting is open now and will close on Saturday during the live show (12th November some time after 8.15pm). You can vote for lovely Essex lasses, 2 Shoes (0901 616 1301), rock chick, Amelia Lily (0901 616 1302), curly-haired cutie, James Michael (0901 616 1303) or hunky hero, Jonjo Kerr (0901 616 1304). For more details and for call costs, click here. I'll be hoping that either 2 Shoes or Amelia Lily come back. I'd definitely like to see more of either of them.

Inevitably, there have been some people saying that the show should bring back Johnny, The Risk, or one of the other previously departed acts. However, it would be difficult to justify that to Ofcom, to whom ITV are accountable for their public telephone voting. The public have already voted against the acts that have gone in the past. I'm not sure what Ofcom rules are about it, but I'd bet it would be a headache for the broadcaster. In addition, some of the evicted performers have already made other commitments - Sophie Habibis, only one week out of the show, has been out and about quite a lot already, and will be at Birchwood Shopping Centre next Thursday (17th November) evening to sing and switch on the Christmas lights. Therefore, this lifeline to the initial four acts that were evicted seems like a good halfway house and I will welcome their return. I hope that whoever returns will be able to make something of this second chance.

NaBloPoMo Day 30 - X Factor Live Shows Week 4

What a shocker! But that's the way of this show; sometimes contestants that have the potential to go all the way end up in the bottom two, and unfortunately, who stays and goes all depends on who they are up against in the showdown.

So let's start with the Girls category. It's a testament to the fact that Kelly is actively mentoring her acts, that her absence this week, showed in their performances. It's important to say that there really wasn't a bad performance this week, from any of the acts, but there are always weaker performances and Sophie was, for me, probably the weakest of the night. She didn't really do anything wrong, but it was a terrible song choice - many people have tried, and failed, to up date it but it doesn't seem to work without that old fashioned, Nancy Sinatra type of vocal. That mistake left Sophie exposed, and her song for survival wasn't very impressive either. Although I did love her man-chair. Where can I get one? Ahem... I also thought Janet was quite weak. I love the Miss Havisham vibe that the production team put into the staging and I appreciate what she tried to do with song. It was suitably atmospheric, particularly on the flattening of certain notes, but some songs shouldn't be messed with. I can't help but reflect, as well, that Janet needs to smile more. I understand how much pressure she's under and she's obviously had some personal distress as well, but performing is about putting on a show as much as it is about plugging into your emotions (and those of others) and she's such a talented and beautiful girl, it's a shame to see her constantly solemn. Finally, Misha B. The one act from the Girls category that I didn't expect to see in the bottom two. I always love her performances and this week was no different. I love how adventurous she is with the staging and costuming and I think she has an amazing voice. Having said that, I think this week was her worst performance so far. That isn't to say it was bad: it wasn't. I honestly think the only reason she made the bottom two was because of the little disruptive rap bit in the middle of her song. It was unnecessary and didn't really work for me. I can imagine others being really annoyed by it and in such a close competition, that's a dangerous thing to do.

Moving on, one of the acts that I did half-expect to see in the bottom two was The Risk. Opening the show is always difficult and always a disadvantage, because everyone else is compared to you. It is therefore vital to put in a performance that will blow everyone else out of the water. I didn't think The Risk's performance measured up to the task. Having said that, it's hard to put together a show-stopping performance in 24 hours, which is basically all they had left after Ashley's shock departure, and Ashford's return. Turning to Tulisa's other group, Rhythmix... I mean Little Mix, I really did enjoy their performance and I'm pleased that the name change didn't damage them this week. I thought their interpretation of Alien was excellent and the staging was stunning. As much as I have enjoyed their previous shows, it was nice to see something more grown-up from them this week.

So who was strongest this week? That's always a tough call and the competition is impossibly close this year, but I agree with Gary that the performance of the night was Craig Colton. It was a stunning version of Set Fire to the Rain and the energy he put in stamped his identity on a song that is already quite iconic. The staging, once again, was brilliant and made it a memorable performance. As far as the rest of the Boys category goes, I also loved Marcus. He's very natural on the stage - an art which eludes me and which I am very jealous of - and he had a great voice. I really enjoyed his interpretation of Superstitious and, if it had been my choice, that's what I would've liked to see opening the show. It actually got me grooving in my seat. Frankie was, once again, the weakest of the three boys. Having said that, I did enjoy his performance and it was a good song choice for him because it hides the weaknesses in his voice. He's not quite my cup of tea, though, and I would honestly have preferred to say goodbye to him than lose Sophie.

In the fourth and final category, the Overs, I much preferred Johnny's performance from last week, but the song choice this week really did show off his voice. I adore him and think he has great appeal. He'll get a career out of this, but he's not really X Factor and I fear that it is only a matter of time before he falls by the wayside. Until then, I'll continue to enjoy his performances and his infectious smile. Last of all, Kitty continues to trouble me. She is gradually winning me over with her performances and this week was no different. It was a great interpretation of Sweet Dreams that made it really contemporary. I think the less she tries to impress with her off-stage persona, and the harder she tries on the stage, the more successful she will be on the show. For the first time, I can see her lasting, but her position is still precarious.

So overall, I would personally have liked to see Frankie Cocozza go this week, if only for the fact that his general laddishness doesn't appeal to me and I think he's a terrible role model. (I sound so old!) I didn't surprise me that Sophie was in the bottom two, but I didn't think she deserved to go and Misha B shouldn't have been in the bottom two at all. I still think Misha B is a winner. I haven't really seen anyone surpass her yet, but Craig, Marcus, Janet and Kitty are all serious contenders.

NaBloPoMo Day 28 - Group Therapy

It's all gone on in the X Factor house this week. At least for Tulisa's groups it has; it seems rather than going from strength to strength they are going from trauma to trauma.

Earlier this week, Stephen Fry tweeted a link to an open to Simon Cowell and his multi-million pound show from the organisers of a charity. The charity in question was called Rhythmix and works with young people in the South East of England. Their aim is to develop the kids' personal and social skills while encouraging creativity. They have reportedly worked with 40,000 young people in the twelve years since they were formed. When the X Factor four-piece girl group formed, they chose their name without knowing about the charity. When the Syco - Simon Cowell's production company - tried to trademark the name, the charity took action so they could continue to use their existing name. When the girls found out about it, they decided to change their name and this evening announced that, from this weekend, they will be known under the new name 'Little Mix'.

However, that's not the end of the changes. This evening, on twitter, The X Factor announced that four-piece boyband, The Risk, have lost one of their members. Ashley Baptiste, aged 22, said on twitter "I love The Risk to the core. I just know that I am not at the right place to commit fully." Rumour has it that Ashley still wants a solo career and was concerned about committing to the band, only to leave. Ashley has also struggled with illness during the live shows and last week appeared despite suffering from Laryngitis and Glandular Fever in the run up to the show. Rather than continue as a trio, the boys have petitioned X Factor hopeful, Ashford Campbell, who sang in the first and second live shows with rival group, Nu Vibe, to take Ashley's place.

It seems the Girls category is not short of their own problems this week as category mentor, Kelly Rowland has fallen ill during a trip to Los Angeles earlier in the week. A statement read "Kelly is devastated she won't be here for this weekend's show. She is extremely ill with a viral throat infection and her doctors aren't permitting her to fly." However, rumours abound that Kelly is considering quitting the show following accusations from Tulisa in last week's live show that one of Kelly's star acts, Misha B, had been bullying some of the other contestants.

Regardless of whether there is any truth to the rumours, the question is, how will this week's X Factor roller-coaster affect Little Mix, The Risk and three girls, Misha B, Janet Devlin and Sophie Habibis? Such upsets, if playing on the contestants' minds, could affect their performances, and The Risk in particular, face the challenge of bringing a new member up to speed in very short shrift. No wonder Gary is feeling confident for this week. And of course, the earlier controversy over fourth judge, Louis Walsh, is now forgotten. How convenient.

NaBloPoMo Day 24 - X Factor Live Shows Week 3

What a week on X Factor. It is rare indeed that I don't watch the Saturday night show and have an act (or sometimes several) that I either think will go, or wish would go, particularly this early on. I felt that everyone put in a good performance and as a result, the show was a pleasure to watch. Here's a few thoughts on the four categories and this week's result.

The Boys category took the lead into the show this week with a tremendous opening from hairdresser, Marcus Collins. His vocal could have been stronger but I felt his performance was well rounded and, as always, his fantastic personality shone through. Frankie Cocozza was much better this week - wooing the ladies and getting rat-arsed obviously works for him. (Hrrrmmmm!) Frankie has the weakest voice of all the contestants (including many of those that have already gone) but his strength is his stage presence and 'cheeky lad' character. As long as he and Gary continue to play up to that he will be alright. Craig disappeared into the background a little this week and I felt he was somewhat at risk. He has a great voice and a lovely personality (he comes across as being very personable on Twitter - @CraigColtonUK) and when he has the right song he can really emote, but I can't help but feel that Rock Week isn't his gig.

The Girls category put in another solid performance this week. Janet brought a slightly insipid version of Sweet Child of Mine, but I can't fault her vocal. She was lacking a little bit of sparkle, but in the grand scheme of things she was still a joy to watch. Sophie is emerging as a potential dark horse now. She is starting to show a bit more of her gutsy personality, which is a pleasure to see. Her verson of Living on a Prayer was probably the best version of it, bar the original; I've heard it sung a lot of different ways, and I've head it murdered a lot of different ways, but Sophie's version was excellent. Of course (and this is the only sad thing) is that both Janet and Sophie, no matter how talented, pale in comparison to Misha B. The girl is a great character, a great performer, has a great look and a great brand. She's hard working, dedicated and has a genuine feel for 'the biz'. It's a sign of her threat to the other categories and contestants when Tulisa and Louis feel the need to character assassinate her, live on stage. More on that in a moment.

I felt that the weakest category overall this week was the Groups, although this was due in part to Tulisa not understanding the challenge (Has she never watched this show before????) and, certainly for The Risk, a weakened team through illness. I have enjoyed both groups in previous weeks but I thought that this week was Rhythmix's weakest performance vocally, but their song was rubbish and the vocal arrangement was a train wreck. Tulisa had better up her game next week if she doesn't want to lose her girls. The Risk were the beet of the two groups and the arrangement for Crazy was actually really quite inventive, although it lends itself to a four-part better than the Push It Mash-up that the girls had.

Finally, the Over 25s were super this week. Like Kelly, I think of Johnny as my guilty pleasure. I loved his performance this week (although it got a bit slap-dash at the end) and the styling this week was brilliant. The thing that really entertains me though is the banter with Gary. Long may it continue! Sami, I fear, was let down by her mentor. Why is it that Louis can't see past the cruise-ship/lounge singer styling and song choice. Sami has a belting voice and deserved a better shot than Louis was able to give her. I am disappointed that she suffered as a result. As for Kitty, my personal opinion of her hasn't changed. But like her or loathe her, she can sing and she can perform. I hate to say it, but I felt this week was her strongest performance to date and it put her right up there with the best acts on the night. I predict, however, that the public will not warm to her and she will fnd herself in the bottom two again. If she comes up against a more commercial and popular act, she will be out.

So, overall, an entertaining showcase of genuine talent. I found it hard to pick the loser this week and I was sad that it was Sami, particularly since I feel that she was not given the best chance of success because of her mentor. On that note, Louis is in hot water at the moment because of his accusation of bullying against Misha B, and rightly so. It was a terrible thing to say, especially for the sake of gaining an advantage over your competition. The press (and the public) are beying for blood and I tend to agree; Louis is past his sell-by date (it's nothing to do with his age, it's to do with his ability to mentor and judge the competition) and I would like to see him replaced. Rumours circulate that Simon Cowell could be returning, but I feel that would be a mistake. I would like to see a younger artist take Louis's place however my feeling is that it's not going to happen. We'll wait and see.

NaBloPoMo Day 15 - X Factor Live Shows Week 2

It was a great show tonight and I had that rare pleasure of watching live - ordinarily I record it and watch it back the next day to spare hubby the 'pain' of having to sit through it but there was nothing else on so I won... DEFAULT DEFAULT DEFAULT!

I think tonight's show demonstrated just how strong the field is this year. In past years there has always been a mish-mash of talent when it comes to the first couple of live shows, mostly, I think, due to the pressure. This year, however, there is plenty of talent on display and it is actually very refreshing.

The Groups opened the show this week with one of the weakest performances of the night from boy-band, Nu Vibe. Louis nick-named them No Vibe, which, despite their decidedly average performance, is a bit unfair. They were much improved on the previous week and it was easy to see why they had got through. However, it was just an average performance when taken in context and opening the show is always the worst slot, so I fear they will be in the bottom two, and will probably be going home tomorrow night. Of the other two groups, The Risk put in another solid performance, although the start of their number was a little dodgy. I wasn't sure whether it was the vocal or that the sound balance was off. But even so, it was a good performance. Rhythmix were the stand-out act in the group category for me. These four girls look great, sound great and do something a little bit different from the usual girl-band type of stuff. They feel fresh and new without being weird. They're comfortable on stage and so that makes them easy to watch. For the first time ever, I have voted in the first show and I voted for these girls. I'd like to think that's a sign that they are something special.

I think the Girls category was probably the strongest overall tonight. Misha B is a genuine pop-star. She has the look, the personality and above all the voice to be something really special but she is humble with it. It's like she knows she's good, but that she relies on the goodwill of others to carry her, and she's OK with that. Janet Devlin put in another lovely performance tonight too. She has a beautiful voice that is unique, which makes her ideal as a recording artist. She was a little downbeat in her performance, and her personality didn't come through, but I think that's to be expected due to the bereavement. What a little trooper. Finally, Sophie Habibis is the big question mark for me. When I hear her sing, I think she could be the dark horse and sneak up on this contest. Normally, this would be the kind of contestant that lingers in the background for a few weeks and then suddenly shines and goes on to be very successful. However, I wonder how much time she has. The competition is tough this year.

The Boys category also had some highs and lows for me. Lets talk about Frankie Cocozza. I completely understand why he's there, and I do agree that he deserves it because he knows how to put on a good show. But the song choice this week left him completely exposed. He was uncomfortable (probably due to the late change) and although it was a song that suited his vocal, it's also one that is impossible for him to hide in. The weaknesses in his voice were all too obvious and I wonder if he will survive. Both Marcus and Craig put in great performances tonight. They are strong contenders and I hope they both stay for a few more weeks at least.

Finally, the Over 25s category. This is still a category that is suffering rather than benefiting from Louis's guidance. Sami was first up with her stunning diva voice, but the song was hopeless. The problem with a song as iconic as 'I Will Always Love You' is that it is impossible to make it sound anything other than a cover of Whitney and it's so rooted in pop-culture that it shows it's age. Of course, Sami nailed it and made it appear effortless, so that should see her through but I hope that Louis starts listening to some contemporary music to find her something better for next week. Johnny is my guilty pleasure in this contest. Far from being the light entertainment like Jedward were, he has talent and he puts on a show. He didn't get great comments and I know he has his haters, but I love him to bits. Now... Kitty... her performance tonight was flawless. She took another old and iconic song but did make it a bit different and I thought her stage presentation was brilliant. Having said that, I find her so utterly fake that I can't believe her or her performance. I find her cocky and arrogant, and I actually wouldn't mind that (because the world is full of cocky an arrogant people and she has incredible talent, so would perhaps, be justified in her cockiness and arrogance) but she tries to hide it. She stands on the stage trembling and meekly thanking the judges for their comments, but it's a lie. You can see it in her eyes.

So, my prediction for the bottom two is Nu Vibe for sure and maybe Kitty, just because the public aren't warming to her. It should probably be Nu Vibe and Frankie Cocozza, but I can't see that happening. Marcus could be at risk, because I'm not are how strong his following is. I would be genuinely surprised if it was anyone else in the bottom two. I think Nu Vibe are going home tomorrow night. I still think Misha B could win this year. In the meantime, I will be looking forward to more from the girls and from Rhythmix in particular.

NaBloPoMo Day 10 - X Factor Live Show Week 1

If there is any doubt, I love X Factor. It's one of the few talent show / reality show type of programme that I watch, yet I have stuck with it since the second year. Religiously.

I really enjoyed the shows this weekend. Despite initial concerns, I love the new judges; they each have a refreshing air of honesty about them and it's nice to see evidence in the VTs of them actually mentoring their acts. However, I wish they'd binned Louis Walsh as well. The only thing he adds to the show is his hackneyed catchphrase book ("You belong on that stage"... "You could win the X Factor"... "You look like a popstar") and a catalogue of dated music; sometimes he even manages to make his acts dated when doing current stuff. I really don't know how he does it.

The field is also strong this year with several potential winners. It is, of course, always hard to tell how things will play out with so much depending on what happens in the press and whether there are any shocks in the public vote, but even at this stage, I think we're looking at a winner in the girls category. All four performers were excellent on Saturday night and I'm sure it was a tough decision for Kelly. Despite a stunning vocal, I expected her to send home Sophie Habibis - as the least distinctive of the four Girls, I fearthat she will fall foul of the public vote sooner rather than later - but I can't say that I'm disappointed that she stayed. It was a shame to reject Amelia Lily, who opened the show with a strong performance, but at 16 and with her talent, she should have plenty of opportunities ahead of her. In the Girls category, Misha B was the stand-out performance for me. And it's rare for me to enjoy a cover of an iconic song like Rolling in the Deep.

I was unsurprised at the result in the Boys and the Over 25s category. In the Boys category, while James Michael had more potential, he bottled it on the night and put in a weak performance. It was a bad call to start with a Beatles song on opening night and when compared with good performances from Frankie Cocozza (even though that breathy thing was really irritating), Marcus Collins and a stand-out effort from Craig Coltan, it was inevitable that James would be the one to fall.

The Over 25s category is the weakest this year (and indeed, it's the weakest Overs category I've seen for several years). Sami Brooks has a great vocal but I can't see her competing for long. Kitty Brucknell is a great entertainer but the public don't like her. She will inevitably be in the bottom two for week after week and constantly get saved before the judges finally let her go. Until then she will be the contestant that everyone loves to hate. Johnny Robinson is adorable and I'm so glad he's made the cut. His performance on Saturday was very average but he's such a character and a pleasure to see. Although I genuinely liked Jonjo Kerr, I felt that his performance was boring and lacked sparkle. He wasn't ready for the live shows and it was right that he should go.

My big disappointment in the result came from the Groups category. I rath enjoyed The Risk and Rhythmix. Although I don't find them all that distinctive in the wider market place they have talent and are appealing acts. The other two groups stood out in the category for me: Nu Vibe for all the wrong reasons and 2 Shoes for all the right reasons. I thought Nu Vibe were terrible and by far the weakest performance of the whole night, while I love the fun and cheeky character of the 2 Shoes girls. I enjoyed the performance, even if the song sounded a little odd without the other 3 parts that it was originally written for, so I was very disappointed that they were the ones that went home and not Nu Vibe. I can only assume that the pregnancy was an issue for the show and hope that the girls will be back next year

So overall, a great start to this year's live shows. My early (and I emphasise that this is EARLY) prediction is a winner from the Girls. At this stage, my Monopoly money is on Misha B with Frankie Cocozza the runner up. But it could all change and I can't wait for next week.

Making Your Mind Up

If you watched X-Factor at the weekend, you will probably number among the thousands (if not millions!) of people that were outraged that contestant Gamu Nhengu wasn't chosen to go through to the live finals. The question is, how far do you take it?

There's a lot being written at the moment about the decisions made on the Sunday night show. Firstly, I'm reasonably happy with the judges' choices in all three categories. There are some contestants I would have put through - Diva Fever were so much more interesting than 1 Direction - and some I would not. But ultimately, I feel the quality is quite high so it's hard for me to be too angry. However, I was just as disappointed as the rest of the nation to find Gamu cast out of the show.

Not only is Gamu stand-out talented but she also had a unique sound and image, unlike a couple of the other girls. Although I liked all the girls, personally, I would have put Gamu through in place of Katie Waissel. Of all the girls, Katie was the only one who completely buckled under the pressure. Cher Lloyd also failed to perform, but had serious tonsilitis and should not have been singing or even speaking. She tried and in doing so put her voice at risk of damage. I believe that shows enough committment to warrant her place in the final. Katie's performance, however, came on the back of a poor first audition and left me with concerns about her stability as a contestant and her ability to perform on the live show week after week. Gamu had no such problem and showed maturity and poise; traits that she has demonstrated consistently throughout the process thus far.

Having said that, over the last couple of days I have been pretty horrified to hear and read about the outlandish reaction of some viewers of the show. When I heard people had actually complained to ITV and to Broadcasting Standards, I thought it a sad reflection on the attitude of people to the business of entertainment. Boys and girls: It may come as a surprise to you, but X-Factor is a business! When I read online that the show's producers were working with the police to investigate death threats against Cheryl Cole, I was horrified!

Those who make and are involved in the show have no committment to you other than to provide a product that appeals to enough people to make it commercially viable. They don't owe you anything and - at this stage - their choices are their own and don't need to be justified to you, the audience. Get over it! Grow up! Put it in perspective: In a couple of years' time, the name Gamu Nhengu will be all but forgotten. (Unless, of course, she's returns for a second crack at it - which I hope she will.)

Obviously this sort of backlash is unfounded and, quite frankly, ridiculous. What further annoys me is the public response to the revelation that Gamu and her family have been instructed to leave the country or risk deportation. I have read all sorts of bizarre comments from 'it's terrible that Gamu lost out because she doesn't have a visa' to 'why let Gamu's mother claim benefits when she's not entitled to them' to outright 'let them stay' (for no reason other than liking Gamu). There is a propensity in this country, although we are not alone in the tendancy, to blame everything on immigration or immigrants: People who can't get a job often sit back and blame it on foreigners 'taking our jobs'; problems with the NHS get blamed on immigrants coming for free health care and stretching the system; sometimes people even try to pin social problems like bringe drinking or yob culture on 'foreign influences'. When I then find the general public advocating a softening of the rules for special cases, I find myself intensely frustrated. The Home Office is apparently 'damned if they do and damned if they don't'

I feel bad that Gamu and her family may be forced to return to Zimbabwe. It's one of the few places in the world that I really wouldn't want to live. However, a visa was granted based upon certain conditions and rules. If you break the rules you lose the visa. It's not complicated and it shouldn't be complicated. Gamu's mother took money from the state that she wasn't entitled to. I'm sad that she hasn't got a more stable country to return to, and that her children, who have made lives for themselves here will have to leave it behind, but that is where my sympathy ends.

So, am I disappointed that Gamu isn't going to be in the live shows? Sure am! Will I avoid watching or avoid supporting other contestants because of it? Sure won't! At the end of the day, I watch X-Factor to be entertained and I will continue to watch up to the point it is no longer doing so.

15 Minutes of Fame

Hrrmm, 29th of June. That was the last time I posted. Two and a half months... before I know where I am it will be 2011! The reason for my long blogging absence? Don't Stop Believing!

I have posted about Sing Live a couple of times before. I started singing with the Sing Live North West choir last April and have since sung with them three times at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester and I have also sung at the fabulous Royal Albert Hall in London. Every time I perform the experience gets better, so much so that I constantly ask myself how each performance can be topped. But somehow, it always is. This summer has been no different.

I think it was back in April when a group of singers from Sing Live Merseyside, Sing Live North West and Sing Live North East gathered in a car park in Gosforth (because we couldn't get into the Civic Centre that had been booked for the occasion) to audition for a new TV show to be broadcast on Five. None of us really expected to get through, but we got the 'call' at the end of June, inviting us to perform on and spent July preparing for our fifteen minutes of fame.

I often wondered about the experiences of TV show contestants, like those on X-Factor. In interviews, they all seem to spout wonderful things about how close they are as a group, and how much they enjoy the experience. I used to suspect that it was bluster. Exaggeration. Turns out, it's not.

Performing with Sing Live on Don't Stop Believing is probably the single coolest and most exciting experiences of my life so far. There are something in the region of 4,000 Sing Live members spread across 11 companies in the UK and USA but the eighty-five of us that performed live on TV are part of an exclusive club. We are ambassadors for the company we love, and for the 4,000 members who weren't able to sing with us. We did get to know each other really well, having spent days at a time together, and while there were occasional upsets, everyone was very supportive of each other. It was a privilege and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for which I will be perpetually grateful.

It's impossible to fully explain what it felt like to be part of the experience. Many people have asked if I was nervous - no I really wasn't, I was excited. Standing on the stage, head down, waiting for the music to start, was incredible. Thinking of the millions of people watching at home, including friends and family that were probably just as excited as me, and probably more nervous, was empowering. And if I thought there was a buzz before we went on stage, it was nothing compared to the buzz coming off stage after performing. The atmosphere was exhilarating. I felt a bond with the rest of the group that I have never felt before, and I would gladly give my right arm to do it again. Although I don't think that would make for good choreography.

If you would like to see how I spent my summer, you can watch the show in full by clicking here, or you can watch our main performance and the judges comments by clicking here. I hope you enjoy it. It's also worth saying that we're not a special group of Sing Live members that are better than others; we're not all amazing performers. We are ordinary people.

Anyone can join Sing Live and there are no auditions to sing with us. If you would like to be part of one of our performances, there is nothing stopping you. :o)

Does Politics Have the X-Factor?

Last Sunday I spent two thirds of my day hanging around in the cold at Old Trafford waiting for my one and a half minutes in front of an X-Factor judge. Yes, I succumbed to the temptation of bright lights, fame, fortune... not quite! I auditioned, safe in the knowledge that I am neither a good enough, nor bad enough singer to get beyond stage one, so it was never about any of that stuff! My interest was purely one of experience and exploration. I took it as an opportunity to get some audition practice for the one that really matters - for a Sing Live Beatles solo audition, which will be next weekend! It was an interesting experience. I had some fun and it has ended up being a surprising confidence booster, so I'm glad I did it.

While standing there waiting in the longest queue I've ever stood in, it occurred to me that if people paid as much attention to politics as they do to X-Factor, Britain's Got (So-called) Talent and Big Brother, British politics would be much better off. Mind you, the thought of Gordon Brown singing and dancing on a Saturday night for votes kinda makes me want to vomit! But seriously, millions of people that won't vote for free in an election will actually spend money to vote for contestants on these shows - and it's not just sixteen year old girls either! How many people talk about X-Factor on a Monday morning, compared with how many people talk about local or national government (except to have a moan)? It seems that people are quick to complain and slow to act.

I think one of the main problems is a lack of understanding. I have lost count of the number of times recently when I have had to explain the concept of two elections on the same day and I constantly find myself explaining the importance of local elections to people who only vote in parliamentary elections. So many people seem to think that when they vote they are doing so to elect the Prime Minister. They don't realise they are actually electing the individual that will represent them in Parliament and that the Prime Minister is never actually elected (except as the MP for his or her own constituency). With so little understanding of how our system of government works and why it has been set up that way, it's no wonder people think their vote doesn't matter.

So, what's the answer? Do we need to change the way things work? Well, yes, sort of. I support Lib Dem electoral reform policy in full. However, I do not believe it will promote understanding (who here knows how proportional representation works?) and consequently I believe it is unlikely to improve voter turnout or encourage people to engage in politics. Instead, there are three things I would personally like to see introduced.

First, I would like to see politics and citizenship taught in school. Obviously, party policy must be kept out of the classroom but that isn't what I'm talking about here. Our kids should be taught about national and local government, how it works, why it's important to vote and what the affect of non-voting might be. This is a factual subject that can and should be taught. I believe that understanding will promote engagement.

The second thing I would like to see introduced is compulsory voting. There are many that disagree with me, including my poor husband who gets bullied over the subject at regular intervals. There is a general concern that compulsory voting is like putting a gun to person's head, but if an individual doesn't want to vote for any of the candidates they still have the right to not vote by removing or spoiling their ballot paper. In recent years, so many people have said to me that they don't vote in order to 'send a message'. Indeed, in the Irwell Riverside by-election last year, voter apathy was particularly high as many electors stayed home in the wake of the expenses scandal. But staying home doesn't send a message, it just makes you seem lazy. If the vote was compulsory, by removing or spoiling the ballot you would be sending a much clearer message. There is a risk that compulsory voting would mean people would make an uninformed and random choice, but I believe that having to make a choice (whether that be to vote for a candidate or to not complete the vote) would encourage people to make themselves more aware of their options. Understanding does not fall in fairy dust (or volcanic ash!) from the sky; it is something which you must seek out and choose to accept. When you are 'forced' to make a choice (for example, from a restaurant menu) do you just pick something without knowing what it is or do you ask (the waiter) for information or a recommendation?

Finally, I would lower the voting age to sixteen. I was initially against this when it was put to me (how can a sixteen year old make an informed decision about something a thirty year old can't?) but on reflection, if politics was taught in school, I see no reason why not. At the age of sixteen an individual can serve in the armed forces, can get married, can work (and consequently pay taxes) and can leave home. If you are considered responsible enough to make these decisions about your life and future, you should be responsible enough to make a choice about your government representative. Furthermore, politics is just as relevant to young people as it is to adults and if you speak to young people, you can see that kids as young as thirteen or fourteen are already becoming aware of community, society and government. They know what they want and need in their community - just ask them; they have some great ideas. Sixteen year olds are becoming increasingly accustomed to voting, whether it is for their favourite Big Brother contestant or the best singer or group on X-Factor. Rather than look down my nose at that, I'd prefer to use it! Get people to start voting young and they will continue to do so as they get older.

Voter turnout has been slipping for years. I believe that fostering understanding of the electoral system and local and national government is the key to improving it. Alternatively, we can get rid of candidates and just have people vote for their favourite party by calling an 0901 number or texting at 25p per message... I am, of course, joking about this last part! :o)