Leon Wins X Factor
In a shock upset, Leon Jackson won the 4th series of X Factor and a £1million recording contract, defeating Rhydian and Same Difference. Was Leon the best singer? Really, I don’t think so. So let’s consider why he won…
The Scottish Angle
The Scots are a proud bunch and seem to enjoy voting en bloc to support their local candidate. Look at how far the McDonald brothers got year. Or how David Sneddon won Fame Academy and Michelle McManus won Pop Idol. Leon was helped by this and the fact that the producers pitched it as an England vs Wales vs Scotland contest in the final.
The Celebrity Guest
Rhydian got Kathryn Jenkins. A great voice but I think mostly unknown to pop fans. Same Difference got Jason Donovan, last seen in Iceland ads with Kerry Katona. Leon got global superstar, Kylie Minogue. Hmmm…..
Extra Time?
When it got to the final two, I think the lines were reopened after Leon’s final performance - which was before Rhydian has performed his final song. This gave Leon a bit of extra time to mop up votes.
Rhydian the Cold Fish
Rhydian was a little hard to warm to. Fantastic voice, but he had an icey personality whereas soppy Leon would blub almost uncontrollably at the drop of a hat.
Leon came across a nice guy with a rich tone to his voice but will he have a long career? I very much doubt it. They said he could be the UK’s Buble. Michael Buble isn’t just a great singer, he also writes brilliant songs. Leon is no Michael Buble. I think we just found a new David Sneddon.I’d actually prefer to see Leona hang on and claim the Christmas number one.