So here we are. The competition is really hotting up now. The finalists have been chosen. Who will do well, who will fail, but most importantly who will reach the X Factor Final...here are my own personal views on the final 12.
The Wildcard: Amy Mottram would be my personal choice, but it really is a close call between her and Christopher Maloney. Very close.
Louis and The Groups.
MK1: Fresh, funky and cool. I just don't think they will get the votes that will help take them through the competition.
GMD3 (Name change pending): As the competition has progressed, these three lads have really started to make their mark. But Union J are hot on their heels and may be favoured by the voting public.
Union J: The best of the groups by far. If they overcome the tricky first few live shows, I think these four guys could be this years dark horses.
Nicole Scherzinger and The boys:
James Arthur: No doubting James' talent but the live shows and theme weeks could cause him some problems. I still think he is top five material.
Jahmene Douglas: Cracking voice with a likeable personality, but will his nerves be his undoing? I would still be very surprised if he isn't in the top four though.
Rylan Clark: He is not a bad singer, but will shine through on how he "performs" on stage. Top six or seven but will need to keep the audiences interested.
Tulisa and The Girls:
Lucy Spraggan: Great first audition and a fantastic songwriter. I really like her style, but I don't think the show is right for her. Could be this years shock exit.
Jade Ellis: Good singer who is being overshadowed at the moment by Lucy and Ella. Needs a good first live show or it could be over at the first hurdle.
Ella Henderson: Wow, phenomenal young talent. She is the one to beat. This girl has one hell of a future ahead of her whether she wins or loses. Finalist.
and finally Gary Barlow and The Over 28's
Kye Sones: The girls love him, he is a good singer, but I think there are stronger acts in the competition and he may lose out, as we hit the real business end of the show.
Melanie Masson: I really like Melanie and I would sign her to my agency tomorrow. I really hope the show gives her a career, long after it is finished.
Carolynne Poole: My Midas act for 2012, we have never had a country singer at the live shows and I hope the public gives her a chance to show what a phenomenal talent she is. Finalist.
The first live show is this Saturday at 8pm on ITV.
Good Luck to all the acts.