‘Too embarrassed’ to be on X Factor, says Weller

Paul Weller has criticised so-called “edgy” aspiring singers who chase success by auditioning on TV talent shows.

The former Jam frontman told the Radio Times that he would never become a judge on competition shows like The Voice or The X Factor.

Weller, 53, called TV talent shows “Saturday-night viewing for the masses”, adding: “Would I be a judge? Would I hell.”

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Asked whether Simon Cowell should be given some credit after X Factor alumni One Direction became the first British band to hit number one in the US with their debut album, he said: “Dunno, ’cause I’ve never heard ’em. I do know what you’re talking about. But I wouldn’t give him anything, personally.”

He said: “I’d be too embarrassed to be on those shows.

“You get some of these kids who think they’re a little bit ‘edgy’, got a bit of a Pete Doherty haircut. You’re not edgy, really, mate. Otherwise you wouldn’t be on an effing talent show, would you?”

Pianist and TV presenter Jools Holland agreed, saying: “Yeah, you’d kick the microphone over, say, ‘It’s a load of old b******s, see you later….”

Holland added: “Budding artists need a break, I suppose. But music’s not like a competition. It’s an art form.

“But there’s a difference between having it like a game show and having it as something that connects with your spirit and moves you… that’s what music’s supposed to be about.”

Weller has previously criticised The X Factor, as “very cheap programming and the lowest common denominator stuff”.

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