“Remember this day everybody; a star was born.”
That’s what judge L.A. Reid said after 13-year-old Carly Rose Sonenclar took The X Factor stage in Providence, Rhode Island — and brought the house down.
At first, though, judges looked doubtful — especially when Carly announced she’d be singing “Feeling Good” by Nina Simone. But then little Carly opened her mouth.
And judge Simon Cowell smiled.
Reid threw his hands up, bewildered at Carly Rose Sonenclar’s talent.
The crowd cheered. The judges stood.
And Carly Rose sang in a voice that no one expected.
When the crowd finally calmed down and the chills on everyone’s spine subsided, the judges declared her a star.
“Miss thang,” Britney Spears said, “you are a little diva. You are unbelievable. You were amazing. I was not expecting that, and you can see, all of us completely are in love with you.”
To that, Carly’s jaw dropped. She smiled, hand over chest and said, “thank you.” But it was Simon who — known for his cruel criticisms — gave Carly the best compliment she could have hoped for.
“A star has just walked out on that stage,” he said. “You have soul. I really, really like you.”
And that’s what Carly wants to be. A super star. She’s said so in her own words.
“Remember this day everybody; a star is born,” Reid said.
Click here to listen to “Feeling Good” by the original artist, Nina Simone.
XFactor airs 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday and 7-8 p.m.on Thursdays on FOX 4.