There's no denying that The X Factor UK has a huge sway over the music industry; then show has helped launch the careers of One Direction, Cher Lloyd and a slew of No. 1 singles and albums, but there's one new British pop star who swears that he would never have gone on the reality show to help and find successes: Sam Smith.
In a new interview with The Mirror, the "I'm Not The Only One" singer revealed why he never wanted to audition for The X Factor to find fame, saying that the show is "damaging" for songwriters, though it is good for singers.
"I feel that X Factor is perfect for singers who sing, and that's all they want to do. They don't care what they sing; they just love singing. You could sing on a cruise ship or release a cover album, that's what it's for. Because when you think about it, every week, that's what you do. You're singing other people's songs. People are judging you on other people's music," he said. "The minute I started writing music, I knew that none of that stuff was going to be for me. I want people judging me on my voice and my songs -- that's what's important to me."
However, he would recommend the show for singers who don't necessarily pen their own songs.
"I always say to people: 'If you're a singer, go for it.' It's an amazing platform. But if you're not, and you're a songwriter, I think it's actually quite damaging for you to go on there," he said. "You're singing other people's music, so then when you release your own stuff, people might not like it."
Despite not choosing The X Factor for his own path to musical stardom, Smith does seem to be a fan of the show. He appeared on the recent season 11 finale to perform his latest In The Lonely Hour single "Like I Can." And he was disappointed that he didn't get to meet the show's judges, Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole.
