For many years, the show X Factor has been extremely popular across the pond. The British version is responsible for launching many famous singers’ careers including boy band One Direction, Leona Lewis, Cher Lloyd, James Arthur, and girl group Little Mix.
It did so well overseas that judge and producer Simon Cowell brought it to the United States in 2011, and it ran for three seasons.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujH66J1Fm68
When 21-year-old Brandie Love of Rocky Mountain, North Carolina took to The X Factor stage, the judges were surprised when the self-proclaimed country girl decided to sing an old gospel song called “Up to the Mountain.”
“Up to the Mountain” was written by Patty Griffin, and talks about the emotions associated with Martin Luther King Jr.’s last speech, “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop.” The song was originally recorded by Solomon Burke and has since been covered by multiple artists, including Kelly Clarkson and Susan Boyle.
When one of the judges asked Love what kind of music she liked, she said country music. So when she said that she wasn’t going to sing a country song, the judges were confused.
“As you can see, I’m country when I talk, so when I sing, it kind of just sounds country,” Love said.
The judges still seemed skeptical as Love prepared to sing. But as soon as she opened her mouth, all their doubts faded.
Love starts off singing softly, her voice gaining power as she continues through the song. But the most powerful part comes at the end, when she sings a cappella, and it is then that her talent truly shines through.
As soon as she finishes performing, the crowd erupts into cheers. The judges are also blown away by Love’s performance.
“I predict great things for Brandie Love,” said Simon Cowell.
Love, who now goes by Brandie Love Reese, is still singing and has uplaoded a few covers on her personal YouTube channel.
And watch her audition in the video below.
