Reality singing shows have introduced audiences to a treasure trove of talent over the years, but every so often, there’s an audition that sticks with you forever.
One of these unforgettable moments came when 18-year-old Lucie Jones from Wales took the stage on The X Factor.
Even though many years have passed since that moment, the show’s YouTube channel recently shared her audition again, reminding fans just why it made such an impact.
Lucie’s performance is one of those moments that’s not easily forgotten, leaving a mark on both the judges and viewers alike.
When Lucie first walked on stage, her nerves were noticable.
It’s not hard to imagine why.
For a young singer, being in front of a live audience and a panel of famous judges is a dream come true, but it also brings an immense amount of pressure.
Lucie’s emotions were visible, but there was also a quiet determination in her as she faced the crowd.
Anyone watching could see how much the moment meant to her.
Then came the part that caught everyone’s attention: Lucie revealed her song choice.
She chose to sing Whitney Houston’s iconic hit “I Will Always Love You”—a song that has tripped up even seasoned performers.
The judges were clearly taken aback, and Simon Cowell, never one to mince words, asked the all-important question, “Are you sure you want to do that song?”
Whitney Houston’s voice is legendary, and the song itself is notoriously difficult to master, so choosing it was a bold move for any contestant, let alone a nervous 18-year-old.
“I Will Always Love You” is a powerhouse ballad that was originally written by Dolly Parton in 1973.
However, it gained worldwide fame when Whitney Houston’s version appeared in the soundtrack of The Bodyguard in 1992.
Houston’s rendition, with its soaring high notes and deep emotional range, is widely considered one of the greatest performances in music history.
Covering such a beloved and vocally demanding song is a tall order, so it’s no wonder that Simon questioned Lucie’s decision.
With her family watching anxiously from backstage, Lucie took a deep breath and began to sing.
From the very first notes, the audience could feel something special happening.
Cheers erupted from the crowd almost immediately, and the camera captured the judges’ faces as they leaned forward, fully invested in her performance.
Lucie’s rendition had something unique—her own twist on the song while still maintaining the power and emotion that made the original so famous.
Backstage, Lucie’s family was undoubtedly holding their breath.
They watched on with a mixture of nerves and pride as their daughter gave everything she had on that stage.
Simon, too, appeared to be deep in thought, his usual cool demeanor momentarily softened as he closely followed each note.
It was clear that Lucie’s performance was not only impressive but also something unexpected.
It was as if the audience and judges were witnessing the rise of a new star right before their eyes.
Lucie’s voice was remarkable in how she balanced power with vulnerability.
The song’s quieter moments, where she pulled back and allowed the softer tones to shine, were just as captivating as the more powerful crescendos.
Her control over her voice was incredible, and it was obvious she wasn’t trying to mimic Whitney Houston.
Instead, she made the song her own, and in doing so, she showed off her unique style and range.
When Lucie’s performance came to an end, the judges were more than impressed.
Simon, known for his brutally honest critiques, gave her some of the highest praise a contestant could hope for.
“One of the hardest songs in the world to sing,” he began, “You didn’t try to impersonate Whitney, you sang it your own way… You’re really, really good, I like you!”
His approval was echoed by the other judges, and Lucie received a resounding round of “yes” votes, sending her through to the next stage of the competition.
Watch Lucie’s spectacular performance in the video below!
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