Even though Chesterman had said he was “very, very nervous” before his 2015 audition, he appeared composed and prepared to perform when he walked confidently ontostage. He introduced himself and stated his intention to revive classic soul music by emulating artists like Luther Vandross and Stevie Wonder. But here’s the first twist – Simon Cowell interrupted him mid-song and asked if he could sing something else when he announced he was about to perform a Sam Smith single.
Instead of singing “Who You Are” by Jessie J., Chesterman accepted, albeit he appeared shocked. As Chesterman’s distinct, passionate voice echoed across the crowd, the moment had come for the judges to be taken aback. All four judges appeared utterly taken aback by the conclusion of Chesterman’s spectacular performance; they had obviously not anticipated his extraordinary vocal range or command of his voice. After making it through the audition, he finished in third place overall.
During his stint on the X Factor, Chesterman gave a breathtaking rendition of a cover of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon and Garfunkel. He sang it in an attempt to get to the finals. Judge Nick Grimshaw even got up to applause Chesterman’s performance after he finished, a testament to his emotionally charged performances and stunning vibrato-soaked voice, which helped him advance to the final.
Although he did not come out on top of the X Factor, Chesterman’s decision to compete altered the course of his life for the better. It is inspiring and motivating to witness his journey from his X Factor audition in 2015, at the tender age of 18, to his current professional singing career.
