2011 X Factor finalist, Amelia Lily is to host a new BBC Radio 1 podcast which goes behind the scenes of the UK’s biggest music talent shows.
Across eight episodes, The Talent Factory: Inside The Music Machine will chart the highs, the lows and the impact these shows had on the music industry.
Amelia will share her own experience as well as speak to those “driving the machine” and former contestants including Joe McElderry, Katie Waissel and Danyl Johnson.
For the last 20 years or so, these types of shows have had a big impact on UK pop culture with millions of viewers tuning in to watch shows likes the X Factor, Pop Idol and The Voice.
The whole process will be explored – from the sob stories, tears, and tantrums to the judges and the infamous 2009 chart battle. The podcast will also look into the role of the judges, money and the future of music talent shows.
Amelia Lily says: “In 2011, I walked into the audition room for the first time and began my X Factor journey. My journey, like the experiences we hear from the contestants in the podcast, was full of highs and lows. The whole experience has made me the person I am today. Without a doubt the show taught me resilience and has made me a stronger person and performer.
“It was great to reveal the secrets of the shows that have shaped the music industry and I know the listeners will be shocked and surprised by what we uncover about music talent shows.”
BBC Radio 1: The Talent Factory: Inside the Music Machine is available as a boxset on BBC Sounds from today, Monday 26 September.
