Durham Grad nails X Factor in ‘unpredictable’ audition

A talented graduate wowed judges on X Factor on Saturday night with a brave attempt at Beyoncé’s “If I were a boy”.

Durham grad Simon Lynch, 23, smashed the X Factor audition with four resounding yeses.

And top judge Simon Cowell even told him “You’ve just reminded me what singing is all about.”

Clearly forgetting the past 15 years of the show, he added: “It’s all about taking risks and not doing something I’ve heard a million times.”

The Durham Grad received a resounding four yeses.

The former Geography and Marketing Management student appeared on the Saturday night episode of The X Factor, and clearly amazed the judges.

Cheryl apparently had her low expectations blown away, admitting: “I always like it when somebody is so unpredictable. It was a fantastic audition.”

What’s more, X Factor newbie Nick Grimshaw said Simon had combined a classic combination of song choice, and tried Cowell’s trick of a criticism turned compliment.

Grimmy said: “I don’t want to speak for everyone on this panel, but when somebody is planning on doing Beyoncé you’re like err…don’t do it.

“You really nailed it.”

Killing it.

Friend from uni and number one fan, Linguistics student Laura Baldwin, told The Tab: “Simon used to speak about giving The X Factor a shot.

“I’m thrilled that he has received such a positive public reaction. He is a great guy – very down to earth and deserving of the opportunity.”

Simon took every chance he could to sing at Durham and even performed in Hatfield College concerts and uni theatre productions.

Laura added: “His Open Mic Night medleys were legendary. From musical show shoppers to rap – he can sing anything and make it sound incredible.

“I can’t wait to hear what he chooses for the shows.

“Simon always brought a great energy and atmosphere to Hatfield events.

I remember hearing him sing for the first time with Kinky Jeff – Hatfield College’s jazz band.

“A rendition of ‘Feeling Good’ captivated the audience – his voice is mesmerising!”