Northamptonshire singer scores three ‘yes’ votes with Bruno Mars song in X Factor audition

A singer from Northamptonshire has appeared on ITV’s X Factor and received three ‘yes’ votes from the judges.
Northampton's Got Talent Final, Market SquareNorthampton's Got Talent Final, Market Square
Northampton's Got Talent Final, Market Square

Jamie Benkert, who was a finalist in the Northampton’s Got Talent competition in 2011, impressed Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Rita Ora and Nick Grimshaw after he performed two songs on the TV show tonight (Saturday).

However, the 24-year-old from Northampton was questioned by Simon Cowell about his likeness to X Factor presenter Olly Murs.

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Mr Benkert initially performed a rendition of a Murs-inspired track titled Dance All Night, to which Fernandez-Versini said: “Is that by Olly?

Northampton's Got Talent, Grosvenor Centre, Northampton. Jamie BenkertNorthampton's Got Talent, Grosvenor Centre, Northampton. Jamie Benkert
Northampton's Got Talent, Grosvenor Centre, Northampton. Jamie Benkert

Mr Cowell remarked: “Listen Jamie, it’s like you’ve been watching Olly for years. Have you ever watched a movie called Single White Female? Olly, you’d better watch it tonight and lock all your doors.”

But, after going on to sing Bruno Mars’ Uptown Funk and receiving a great audience reaction, Mr Benkert, a healthcare assistant, received yes votes from every judge except Simon Cowell.