Strictly’s Aston Merrygold to go head-to-head with X Factor boss Simon Cowell by launching talent contest
STRICTLY star Aston Merrygold is going head-to-head with X Factor boss Simon Cowell by launching his own talent contest for budding popstars.
The JLS singer, 29, is teaming up with Eurythmics frontman Dave Stewart on the project that calls on the next generation of hopefuls to pursue their music dreams.
A music source said: “Music Gateway’s NextGen is a nationwide competition to inspire students to express themselves musically in all kinds of ways.
“The competition has two age groups 14-17 and 18-23 and the winners from each group will be given £5,000 worth of studio time where their work will be professionally recorded.
“They will also have their music put in front of the judging panel, including Aston and Dave.”
Aston said: “Music Gateway’s Next Gen is a really exciting concept to be a part of and is a great way of reaching young people and encouraging them to express their musical creativity and ideas.”
Aston, who has signed up for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing, is worried he will disappoint viewers with his skills on the show despite being known for his moves on boy band JLS.
He was also anxious about not getting a partner of the right height but was thankful when put with professional dancer Janette Manrara.
Aston is up against X Factor champ Alexandra Burke in the dance contest, and not for the first time as she previously beat JLS on the talent show.
He joked that this means it's "round two", before adding last week: "I love Alex. She’s a proper firehouse when it comes to dance especially.
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"So much charisma and talent. She’s an incredible woman, I can’t wait to see everyone dance but Alex is going to be amazing."
