...a real musician/singer-songwriter on the X Factor? Like on American Idol this year, Brooke White and Jason Castro both shined, despite being two of the weakest singers in the compitition technically. The fact that instruments were allowed from Hollywood round (which is sort of the equivalent of Boot Camp) onwards really proved to be a benefit for them, and they probably never would've made it nearly as far as they did (5th and 4th place respectively) had it not been for this new rule.

In terms of the X Factor, the closest I can think of is Ben Mills, although he'll probably be remembered for being a rocker, rather than for his piano work an whatnot. The general consensus seems to be that AI is more based on the contestants and their ability, rather than the drama side of things, which is what X Factor's big on.

Opinions?

I agree, I think in many ways using instruments is what's MISSING from XF. Simon is always banging on about discovering fresh new talent, someone who's a bit different, yet still expectional, and who comes with the whole package, but he doesn't half limit himself, does he? I'm sure many of the auditionees who were turned away would've faired far better if they had been allowed to have their guitar to strum on. It would add an extra dimension to the show, allowing real 'groups' to audition. The format is getting tired and I feel if Simon doesn't step it up soon the public will lose interest all together.

if you remember back to series 1, tabby's guitar sort of became a gimmick.......but it was pretty much for show. I think if they brought it to the x-factor then all the contestants would jump on the bandwagon......which i suppose is the only way a group is going to win the x-factor. it'd be good to see a mcfly type band on the x-facotr where not all the members have to sing.

I liked how they had an instrument week on AI where each act had to incorperate an instrument into there song.

They have allowed them in the past through the live shows. Journey South, Tabby, Ben and even The MacDonald Bros ("The worst guitar solo in history") have all had instruments on stage.

There will never be room for a singer/songwriter on the show, but there never was on American Idol either because they still sing according to the themes. In fact, I think the X Factor is the only show to actually feature an original song... "Chico Time"!!!!!!!!