[Red Moon]

Simon Cowell: 'X Factor Austin Is In A Different League'

AUSTIN Drage is "in a completely different league" to his X Factor rivals, says his mentor Simon Cowell.

The 22-year-old made it through the second week of the ITV talent show's live finals, on Saturday.

Austin, who went to Ridgeway Studios Performing Arts School in Cuffley, belted out a different version of Michael Jackson's classic hit Billie Jean.

The arrangement didn't win over judges Louis Walsh and Cheryl Cole, although they did heap praise on his ability.

Louis said: "You absolutely gave it 100 per cent. You're an incredible singer.

"I wasn't crazy about the arrangement, I thought it was a bit self indulgent.

"I think you're a great singer, I just think you're trying too hard."

Cheryl said: "I think singing and performing is in your blood, it comes so naturally to you.

"Your vocals are incredible but I hated that arrangement. I didn't like it, but your performance and vocal - outstanding."

Simon was full of praise for his young hopeful.

He said: "That performance was in a completely different league to anything we've heard tonight.

"It was original, of course it was a risky thing to do but this is what we like about you.

"You've got soul in your voice and you've got passion as well and this is the first time tonight I actually heard and saw something where I felt the artists was trying, so best performance by a mile."

And Dannii Minogue added: "That was another fantastic performance but I actually don't think you've hit your peak yet. I still think there's more in there.

Source:Times24