X Factor: Ella Henderson Continues To Impress

WENN

The X Factor returned tonight under a wave of uncertainty as the audience waited with baited breath to see whether Gary Barlow would return following last week’s explosive exit. Thankfully, he did return to hold court as the circus that is the X Factor resumed.

Jahmene Douglas was up first, giving a rendition of Amy Winehouse’s “Tears dry on their own”. It was a risky move for the shy 21 year old, but it seemed to pay off no end. Louis Walsh was quick to hail Douglas as one of his favourite ever contestants, whilst the other judges’ comments seemed to suggest that Douglas is in it for the long haul.

Christopher Maloney gave a functional, if somewhat unremarkable performance with a bizarre wine bar staged in the background, an arguable premonition of where he’ll be performing after the X Factor.

Yet, it was Ella Henderson that still stole the show. Her performance of Minnie Riperton’s “Lovin you” seemed to summon all the heart of the original and as she hit the song’s iconic high notes, it became clear that she’s increasingly becoming the one to beat within the competition. This was something that became increasingly clear as host Dermot O’Leary revealed that superstar Adele had tweeted praise for Henderson!

Rylan Clark’s performance also turned heads. He began singing Take That’s back for good, before revealing that he was gently antagonising Gary Barlow, leading into a performance of Psy’s Gangnam style.

Melanie Masson closed the show with a performance of INXS’ Never Tear Us Apart with a unique blend of vocal power that went far in giving a much needed sense of credibility to the over 28’s category. Who do you think had the X Factor tonight?

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