The X Factor USA Finale turned out to be a perfect choice for Christmas Eve, because like the holiday, it was a highly anticipated but ultimately painful affair with a few special moments.
In all fairness, singing in front of the world, with five million dollars at stake must be nerve wracking. Unfortunately for the three remaining contestants, Josh Krajcik, Chris Rene and Melanie Amaro, it was about to get worse when, for their first song, they had to do a duet with a superstar and avoid swallowing glitter.
Josh Krajcik got decimated by Alanis Morisette, whilst Chris Rene and Avril Lavigne languished in mediocrity and Melanie Amaro had to sing alto to a hysterical R Kelly. The duets were almost unwatchably bad - probably because the contestants were forced to sing in a key that showcased the voice of their famous partner instead of their own. Better suited for a results show than a finale, but we guess they needed it for the ratings.
For their final song, the contestants had to choose their own favourite. And yes, horror of horrors, that meant that Chris heated up another serving of "Young Homie". Ultimately though, the night belonged to Melanie with a ridiculously powerful performance of Beyonce's "Listen". She might not be a single parent or a recovering drug addict with a secret hand shake, but she undoubtedly has the most talent.
Don't miss the final results show on M-Net on Sunday 25 December 2011 at 17h00.
Justin Bieber is coming!!
