You have two choices when you enter a packed stadium with a sea of enthusiastic onlookers and a panel of judges known for their brutal candor: stay safe or take a chance that could change your life.
When 18-year-old Lucie Jones, a native of Wales, decided to try out for The X Factor, she gave it her all.
From the moment she stepped onto the stage, Lucie was unambiguous about her intention: to silence the crowd. She planned to perform one of the most difficult songs ever written, “I Will Always Love You,” by Dolly Parton, which Whitney Houston famously resang.
The room became tense when she revealed the songs she had chosen. Several contestants have attempted and failed to perform this stirring ballad on the X Factor stage over the years. Even the judges were suspicious. Simon Cowell arched his eyebrow before making the following direct statement:
“Are you sure you want to perform that song?”
Lucie did not hesitate long. She took a deep breath and gave a faint nod before—the reveal.
From the very first note, Lucie’s voice captivated the entire audience. She quickly dispelled any uncertainty in the audience with a breathtaking performance that would go down as one of the most memorable auditions for the program.
Evidence? You’ll understand why nearly 32 million people have viewed the original YouTube video of her performance. She will sing for you to hear.
The world ought to give Lucie all the recognition she merits for having the courage and skill to play such a well-known song.
Check out her incredible performance here, and tell us whether you think she deserves more recognition!
