Staff writer
Justin Terrel of Marion has been a singer since early childhood, but this weekend the high school sophomore will take his talent to a new level as he tries out for X-Factor in Denver, Colo.
“I’ve wanted to do this ever since I was little,” Terrel said. “I used to want to be on American Idol, but since they changed the judges it is not as good anymore.”
Terrel, 16, said he chose to try out for X-Factor because it was easier to get in to and he liked the idea of getting to sing for television show judge Simon Cowell.
“I’ve never really been nervous about singing in front of other people,” Terrel said. “I sing every day, in my room before and after school, in choir at school, and in the special Singers group that we have.”
Terrel, also sings at his church, Marion Christian, and for special occasions like his sister’s wedding reception in 2009 and Relay for Life in Marion. He pre-recorded songs for his grandmothers’ funerals, which both took place in 2011.
“I used to sing mostly country,” Terrel said. “But lately I’ve really started to like some contemporary artists, like Michael Buble. I am doing a lot more contemporary music now.”
Terrel said he did not have specific songs picked out for his May 14 X-Factor tryout, but had several options he could go to with ease.
“I am usually not the type to get nervous, but this is going to be a whole new experience for me,” he said. “I’ve never sang in a place as large as where we are going.”
Terrel, his parents Rick and Sharon Terrel, and his friend Ryan Nelson will leave for Denver on Sunday. Monday will be devoted to filling out paperwork and registration, and then the audition takes place on Tuesday. Terrel hopes to be back home by Wednesday.
In addition to participating in choir and singing groups at school, Terrel is a two-year forensics competitor, he won a state medal in improvised duet acting just last weekend. He also enjoys working with computers, especially in graphic design.