The X Factor

The X Factor X Factor

10:21 pm, November 27th, 2013

VIDEO

(Daily Motion)

The “X Factor” Top 8 had to compete directly head-to-head for the first time ever on Wednesday’s “Big Band” episode.

Each act performed a few lines from “Cry Me A River,” hoping to stand out above and beyond their competition — and it seems one singer may have succeeded.

Kelly Rowland praised Ellona Santiago, Lillie McCloud, and Alex & Sierra, but criticized Reckless Road for not harmonizing.

Demi Lovato agreed that Santiago “excelled,” as did Josh Levi and Carlito Olivero, along with Rion Paige to a lesser degree, but was a little disappointed by McCloud.

Paulina Rubio also said the boys were her highlights with Santiago, while saying she “expected a little bit more” from Jeff Gutt.

Simon Cowell declined to say who was the worst, refusing to “judge people on three lines,” but said that ”somebody here tonight has had an outstanding night — and that is Ellona Santiago.”

It seemed pretty unanimous on who was the best, at least according to the judges, but two acts will have to go home on Thursday’s Thanksgiving special.

Check out the video below, and tell us who gets your vote!

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Truth rating: 10

The X Factor X Factor

8:59 pm, November 27th, 2013

VIDEO

(Daily Motion)

Jeff Gutt received a standing ovation for his “incredible” performance during ”Big Band Week” on Wednesday’s “X Factor.”

The rocker performed an intense version of the classic “Feeling Good,” getting all the judges on their feet before they heaped tons of praise on the returning contestant.

Demi Lovato said she thought the theme would be a “challenge” for Gutt, explaining, “I never thought I’d hear you doing this song, but you killed it.”

“That’s really, really incredible,” she exclaimed. “I’ve never heard anyone do it like you.”

Paulina Rubio called it an “amazing performance,” and Simon Cowell declared it “absolutely fantastic, seriously fantastic.”

“From the minute you grabbed the microphone, you owned that song,” said the music producer. “As Demi said, you killed it. I loved everything about it.”

He went on, “You really deserve a break, and this is by far the best performance you’ve ever done. I absolutely loved it.”

And mentor Kelly Rowland said, “Well, Jeff, I’m lucky that I got a chance to hear it today, but I can’t wait to download that performance on iTunes because you nailed it.”

“I’m gonna enjoy that today, tomorrow, and in the days to come,” she added.

Check out the video below!

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