Pop Blitz - X-Factor Edition: The Semifinalists

UK X-Factor is approaching its end for the year, and it's been as all consuming in 2010 as it always is (in fact, personally, it's been more consuming). Rather than rate the remaining contestants (though this is more or less my preference anyway), I've decided to put them in the order of how successful I think they'll be after the contest is over, since that's all that really matters anyway.

1. One Direction - The market is ripe for a new boyband and I can't imagine any group doing better than these guys. Manufactured by the program, they were brought together for a reason. They look the part and gel extremely well together while still retaining individual personalities. They've got their "lead singers," their "funny one," their "serious one," etc etc. It's no surprise they've already amassed the fanbase they have. Give them the right songs and they'll be huge. Bonus point: they're the youngest on the list - they've got room for growth. (my prediction for the contest: 2nd place)

2. Cher Lloyd - She's been hailed as the most unique act in the competition. She probably is, though as far as the real world goes I'm not sure she's quite as unique. However, she is what's going on in music right now. And it's not just because she raps. She's got the voice, the attitude, the style, and most importantly, the charisma needed to embark on a very successful solo career. (my prediction for the contest: 4th place)

3. Rebecca Ferguson - I think her future success hinges entirely on the album she releases. Apparently Amy Winehouse has already offered to write her a song, which is definitely a step in the right direction. That's the sound she should be going on. She will have to rely on her voice as personality and charisma is a bit lacking, so it's a plus that she's got one of the most marketable sounds in the competition. Problem is, I'm not sure that particular sound's popularity isn't starting to fade. (my prediction for the contest: 3rd place)

4. Matt Cardle - The chosen winner since the very beginning (I can't begin to tell you how much it annoys me when the early frontrunner wins), coming number one is probably the worst thing that could happen to Matt. Yes, he's got the voice (best voice in the competition), but he's also got the charisma of a piece of cardboard (see: Leon Jackson, Joe McElderry, etc - we know how that worked out). There has never been a long-term successful male winner of X-Factor. Add to that the fact that the music Matt will want to make (judging by his previous band) is not the type of music that the winner's label (Syco) knows anything about. He'd do better to be voted out early, but it's not gonna happen. He'll win and everyone will forget about him next year. (my prediction for the contest: 1st place)

5. Mary Byrne - X-Factor will undoubtedly be the high point of Mary's singing career, as after the contest is over it'll be gigs, a bargain-bin collection of Shirley Bassey covers and (if she's lucky) a stint on the West End (but can she act?). She's a lovely woman, but the world's already got a Susan Boyle. And even though I prefer her to Susan (controversial opinion, I know), lightning won't strike twice. Good for her, though. All this media coverage is a far cry from Tesco! (my prediction for the contest: 5th place)