X Factor 2009 is now in full swing (with some amazing performances already on the show) and I’m watching with genuine nervs for the contestants as it reminds of my own time on there and I cant help but appreciate even more what an amazing experience it was.
One of the questions I get asked more than most (apart from what is Simon really like) is “has it changed your life?” and “how are you doing?” and I’m glad to say I am doing really well. I may not be in the public eye but I earn a good living doing something that I love and that’s all thanks to the show so I will be forever grateful for that chance, I always look at it like this, if I can pay my bills each month, I’m happy and so far I’m lucky that that is the case…I just hope this years contestants appreciate how lucky they are to be there specially if you make it to the live shows. And for the record, Mr.Cowell is actually a really nice guy.
As in life, nothing is guaranteed so you just need to make the most and enjoy the chances you get because they may never come back round again.
I also got the chance to record an album with and independent label and I have had full control of all its content, which has been pretty cool.
Will it be rivalling JLS in the charts? I doubt that very much as I cant afford a publicity campaign or distribution but I’m confident I will earn a small living from it plus I have something to be proud of, something that can show what I can do with songs that I have chosen and that I love. You just need to have realistic expectations of what to expect when you start out after a show like X Factor. I think I has to be about the music, not about the fame or celebrity side or you will be in for a shock.
It’s a tough business, but I hope to show you don’t need a multi million pound label to get good music out there, just some belief in yourself, belief in what your doing, some great fans and a bit of talent helps.
Coming out of the show at first was a bit of a shock to the system after living in the X Factor bubble for so long. I never expected so much press and attention…and people who I never met before saying “Hi Daniel!” and “How’s your Daughter” in the street never fails to make me smile. I honestly had no idea how people would be with me as I avoided press, Internet and TV and concentrated on getting through week by week.
Its so good to know that so many people supported me and it’s the fans at the end of the day that kept me in so long so let me just say thank you to all my fans, supporters and voters…because of you I have a job I love and that’s why when I’m asked for an autograph or photo I will do everything possible to make it happen…and that is something that will never change. I always try to reply personally to fans on my website and Facebook, Twitter etc and as long as I have time to, I always will. I just think its good to have some personal connection with fans if possible.
Some of the letters and messages I have received from fans have been amazing. A lot of people who had similar experiences wrote to me saying how my story helped them cope with their loss…you cant help but be humbled by that. And that fact that I somehow inspired others was very moving and unexpected.
My first few gigs after I left the show were nerv racking, I would turn up at venues expecting a few people there and the place would be packed and calling my name. This old guy from X factor had people chanting for him…now that is a nice feeling I can tell you. (Although they weren’t all like that lol!!)
On of my better gigs was a club in Newcastle, everyone at least half my age, and I was really nervous. I honestly think people expect me to sing old ballads all night, and it was nice to be able to sing some funk and soul and get the crowd dancing. It ended up being an amazing night. On the show you don’t get to pick your own songs, if your lucky you get a choice of 2 or 3, so to be able to do gigs and choose my own stuff is great as it gives you the chance to show what you can do away from the TV show. Obviously I perform a few from the show but only the most popular ones.
The X factor tour was amazing too, that was something I’ll never forget, to sing at Wembley stadium and shout “Hello Wembley!!!!” in front of 20 thousand people, now that’s something special. And it was great to work with such amazing musicians and get the chance to sing without the pressure of phone votes and judges. That was the icing on the cake for me.
When I was told I made it on the tour, I had no idea what to expect, I thought it was a few X Factor gigs around some pubs and clubs. Imagine my surprise when I found out we had a 32 date sold out arena show!!…
Another question asked a lot is, “what’s it like being famous or a celeb” and it always makes me laugh, Peter or Katie, now they’re celebs, not me. I just don’t see myself like that. I’m just a guy who was lucky enough to do an amazing show and was on the telly for a bit. Maybe it’s being older makes it all easier to deal with and my daughter certainly keeps me grounded. I go from a gig in a suit to changing nappies within 24 hours!
I’ve heard some past contestants talk negatively about the show.
I think it’s shame when I read stuff like that. I do think Steve Brookstein was treated badly by Sharon in particular, and in turn that spoiled what should have been his special moment. But apart from that, how can you not enjoy the whole experience?….it certainly made me a stronger person, but again, maybe its my age that helped. Think people should see it as TV show that occasionally finds talent…Not a talent show for TV if you know what I mean.
Contestants need to see it as a platform that gives you the most immense publicity in the shortest possible time, and they need to take their moment, enjoy it and make the most of everything that comes from it. Take nothing for granted and be grateful. There is nothing in the contract that guarantees you a long and fulfilling career.
I feel lucky to have done some of the amazing things I did and those great memories will be with me forever. I once heard a saying that says life is not measured by the breaths you take but the times that take your breath away and I had many on the show and the tour.
I have recently finished recording my album with an independent label, with some songs from the show and also some of my own versions/interpretations of some beautiful tracks that have at some point been part of the soundtrack to my life.
I have spent a lot of time up in North Wales and have found some amazing talent there who have contributed on the album (in fact, I’m the only non-welsh person on the album!) and they really have helped to make it what it is, and I’m proud of the work they have done. I hope you guys like it!
Looking back now, I can’t help but think “wow”.
I’ve shared a stage with true professionals and some legends too, worked with some of the best musicians and coaches in the business, sang live to a weekly viewing population of 12 million plus, 6 weeks in a row, and completed a sold out arena tour of the UK. You’d have to be a bit mad to not appreciate that!
Big thanks to the amazing fans and this crazy show.
You just can’t help but love the X Factor! Its mad, amazing, emotional, moving and inspirational.
And yes, it can change your life….
x
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