Thursday 24 February 2011

Simon Cowell Breaks Down 'X Factor' Rules, Reveals Audition Dates

'You will have never seen a show like this before in America,' former 'American Idol' judge says in new promo.
By James Dinh


Simon Cowell
Photo: Ian Derry / FOX

While "American Idol" draws closer to the live stage of the singing competition, the U.S. version of "X Factor" will soon begin its countrywide search for the next global superstar. In a new promo for the highly anticipated competition, Simon Cowell talks about the rules for the forthcoming series, promising that America has yet to see a show like this.

"The show is basically a singing competition with a twist," the music executive says in the promo. "The auditions are open to anyone who can sing. You can be 12; you can be 112. You can be in a group; you can have 100 people in the group. It doesn't matter."

Cowell goes on to explain that the contestants are later separated into four categories: young guys, young girls, older singers and vocal groups. However, "X Factor," which premieres in September, isn't just a challenge between talented singers, but also between judges, who will mentor contestants once they make the final rounds.

"I'll assure you one thing. You will have never seen a show like this before in America and a lot is going to happen that will surprise you," Cowell continued. "But as a platform, if you're a performer, this is going to be a great opportunity for you."

In addition to the contest's age freedom, Cowell explained that contestants will have to audition in front of a live audience, saying, "If you can come out and nail it in front of 3,000 or 4,000 people, then you've got the makings of a star."

Ultimately, the former "Idol" judge said he's serious about his search for talent in America. "I'm going to come back to America and say, 'I'm serious about this' and 'I'm serious about finding talent,' " he said. "I'm going to guarantee the winner of this competition 5 million cash. It's a $5 million audition, and you're going to get the cash if you win; you just better be good."

"X Factor" audition dates, according to a press release:

» 3/27 - Los Angeles, CA @ Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena
» 4/7 - Miami, FL @ Bank United Center
» 4/14 - Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center
» 4/20 - Seattle, WA @ Key Arena
» 4/27 - Chicago, IL @ Sears Centre Arena
» TBA - Dallas, TX @ TBA

Are you excited for the U.S. version of "X Factor"? Tell us in the comments!

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1658617/simon-cowell-x-factor.jhtml

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