Back To UK Blak - Five Star

Am I the only one who is already totally engrossed in this year’s Celebrity Big Brother? Yesterday just watching the tragic dance moves of the eccentric, woman-child, Latoya Jackson, conjured memories of Britain’s own version of The Jacksons - Five Star. Oh how I wanted to be the 6th member when I was growing up. I even wrote to Jim to fix it for me to appear alongside them (true story). But thankfully he saved me from  a lifetime of embarrassment. Although having said that, there’s no denying that Britain’s First Family of Bling knew how to through down a choon. ‘Let Me Be The One’ was my track. Unlike their subsequent hits (Rain or Shine anyone?), this song had an authenticity and credibility that was deeply lacking during their superstardom years. So where are they now? Well after the money dried up they relocated to Los Angeles. Stedman has since  moved back to the UK and is (cough cough) making an album. And next month Denise is set to star in Thriller Live, the multi-media musical based on the life of Michael Jackson (obviously still enthralled by the moon-walking mad genius). With the likes of Take That and New Kids forming successful reunions, I’d pay good money to see the fab five don those red sequin jumpsuits once again. What do you reckon? 

Let Me Be The One

X-Factor: So how do you think they're doing?

A few weeks back I endorsed X-Factor contestants Alexandra Burke and Rachel Hylton as the forerunners of the competition. We're now two weeks into the live shows and getting somewhat of an indication as to who is likely to go the distance. Last week it was Michael Jackson Week and Alexandra took to the stage and gave a rousing performance of The Jackson's 'I'll Be There' (although as Simon pointed out, it was obviously inspired by Mariah's version as the ad libs were sung verbatim). Looking every inch the superstar, it was almost a certainty that she'd sail through to the next round. And she did. Rachel on the other hand surprised most by opting for what in my opinion is one of Jacko's weakest songs, like ever, - Dirty Diana. Decked in an ill-fitting gold lame jacket and backed by an over the top stage production befittng a West End musical, Rachel's performance appeared clumsy, contrived and uninspiring. Not surprisingly, Simon slaughtered her. In all honesty I was shocked that she wasn't in the bottom two, proving that she's obviously got a few supporters out there. I understand her need to break free from the "generic R&B girl" tag but she needs to find a way to marry her need for experimentation with song choices and a personal style that comes from a place of sincerity. Watching her on stage last Saturday, it was clearly evident that she wasn't at all comfortable, and I found it near impossible to connect with her like I did in the audition stages. I sincerely believe it will be last chance saloon if she doesn't come correct tomorrow. Check out the performances above and tell me what you think.