The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

THE NEW Season of X-Factor began Wednesday with lines that stretch beyond the horizon funnelling participants and spectators inside the venue to watch a new pool of chart topping talent.

In a two part premiere, the show began with introduction for the new judges: the former Destiny’s Child diva Kelly Rowland and Mexican singer Paulina Rubio who join X Factor regulars Simon Cowell and Demi Lovato. 
X Factor USA has discovered winners such as Melanie Amaro and Tate Stevens. During season two, the cast learned from guest mentors Rihanna, Justin Bieber, Marc Anthony and Nick Jonas.

Last season, the show aimed to tell the X Factor journey through the lives of the contestants; the cameras delved into the personalities and talents of the contestants. The reality show style has continued for season three.

During the live show, 13 year old Rion Paige impressed the judges with her unique talent. She skipped onto the stage, presenting herself like she was the happiest girl in the world to be awarded the opportunity. Soon after, she told the judges that she has arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC), where she was born with her hands curved differently because of her joints. She also said she is almost permanently blind in her right eye. This did not bring down Rion’s hyped spirit at all, as she still remained cheery.

Taking on Carrie Underwood’s “Blown Away,” Rion blew away the judges. She received all yes votes from the judges.

The duo Alex and Sierra, a couple that was introduced as head over heels in love, told the audience they decided to join the show as a couple because the chemistry they share is something truly special. They took on Britney Spears’ “Toxic”, adding their very own twist to it. They appeared nervous and jittery but still somehow managed to pull through and win over the judges all together.

As the show went on, some Bahamian X Factor fans chimed in on Facebook and Twitter.

“I love singing shows and I will be keeping up to date with it. Alex and Sierra were a little corny but still cute. You can see there are a lot of jokes to come with Simon though,” said one fan.

So far there have been twelve contestants that were successfully sent through to the next round: Al Calderon, Alex and Sierra, Carlito Olivero, Denise Weeks, Jeff Brinkman, Jorge Pena, Lillie McCloud, Rachel Potter, Rion Paige, Roxxy Montana, Rylie Brown and Simone Torres.

The X Factor team encouraged viewers to stay tuned as the show continues tonight and tomorrow night, beginning at 8pm.