“X Factor UK candidate Gamu Nhengu captures Simon Cowell’s attention and breathes fresh life into a song created before she was born, all in a performance that lasts about three minutes.

Nhengu is 18 and, when asked why she became a singer, says she wants to be somebody and accomplish something memorable. She speaks with confidence and conviction, and she does not appear to be intimidated by the presence of the four judges.

Nhengu selects the song ‘Walking on Sunshine.’ Katrina and the Waves, an 80s new wave band, performs it. Katrina and the Waves are not a one-hit wonder, but their 1985 song is their most famous. “Walking on Sunshine” is a mainstay of 80s movies and nostalgic films.

When introducing her song, Nhengu informs the judges that she has made some adjustments to it. She does not explain what she has done, whether it is a lyrical modification or a different arrangement, so the audience and judges are naturally inquisitive. Nhengu does not disappoint once she gets beyond the introductions and begins singing.

Simon Cowell appears to have forgotten to eat breakfast and is experiencing stomach discomfort. Simon will only answer, “I’m intrigued to see what you’ve done with this song,” in response to Nhengu’s claim that she changed her music.

While Simon’s look remains unchanged throughout the song, the audience quickly notices Nhengu’s vigor and sass. Her adjustments were slight, but they altered the overall meaning of the song. Whereas the original song’s chorus goes, “You’re my sunshine, and don’t it feel good”,” Nhengu’s rendition states, “You’re my sunshine, but you must leave.”

This indicates that the song is a breakup song. Nhengu informs her potential dating partner that she does not want to spend her life waiting for them. This authoritative shift complements Nhengu’s demeanor, including her body language, sarcastic delivery, and attire. Nhengu has a floor-length dress with a huge rose bow in her hair.

The other judges express nothing but admiration for Nhengu. Louis Walsh virtually gushes, claiming there is “”something extremely charming”” about the young artist and applauding her attitude, song selection, and vitality. Walsh describes Nhengu as “soulful,” and anyone watching would undoubtedly agree with that judgment.

But Simon did not appear impressed. The crowd grows silent, and the house music changes as Simon says, “I’m going to be honest with you. You sang one of my worst songs ever.”” Then Simon pauses. The entire world appears to go silent until Simon exclaims, “You did something different with it—I like you.”

Nhengu appears to breathe for the first time in several minutes as Simon continues, telling her about her jazzy flair. After Game speaks about her mother through tears, all four judges say yes. Simon even says” “a million percent ye”s” immediately before Nhengu’s adored; the industrious mother walks out on stage to congratulate her thrilled daughter. Sometimes changing things up is the greatest way to demonstrate how awesome you can be.

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