16/12/13: After seven weeks of grueling heats the Q Factor came to a knee-trembling climax on Tuesday as six singers all contested to become this year’s victor. It was hosted beautifully by Stevie Tee, assisted by DJ Troy – who twiddled the knobs that made everyone sound as pitch perfect as possible, and judged by myself (well someone screamed “free booze” and she jumped up quicker than Nigella on a Columbian ‘road trip’); scene singing luminary Kelly Wilde; Dave Cross off of that Boyz magazine (he’s Hinge, I’m Bracket), and the super talented female vocalist Laura English.
The first rounds saw all six contestants sing two songs from the genres of rock/pop/country. We were treated to everything from Michael Bublé (slurp) right through to a rock-inspired take on a Shirley Bassey classic. Alas, in true talent show style six had to become three. And post eliminations, it was time to march toward the deciding round: ballads/show tunes. Naturally, I was in heaven as anyone who knows me, knows there’s nothing I like more than a big old jaw -wobbling, belty ballad.
After some stellar, if somewhat tension-filled, final performances, much deliberation, adding up of score cards, and quaffing of champagne it was Paul who walked away with the star prize of the Golden Mic and £200. His passion-filled performance of Elton John’s ‘Your Song’ got a rapturous reception, and brought a tear to everyone’s eye when he declared he was singing it just for his beloved boyfriend, who was in the audience. Isn’t that just beautiful? All judges were unanimous in their praise and comments. Congratulations Paul.
Nobody sloped off empty handed though; second place Sebastian pocketed £100; third placed Jamie added £50 to his bank balance, and all the runner-ups received a bag of goodies to take away. A marvellous night uncovering some great talent down at the super friendly Marble Arch watering hole.
The Quebec, 12 Old Quebec Street, W1H 7AF
Words by Jason Reid
Photos by joel-ryder.com
