He’s Only 13… and The X Factor Judges Compare Him to Justin Bieber!
When 13-year-old Reed Deming stepped onto The X Factor USA stage in 2012, he had a big dream: to prove that he had what it takes to become a successful singer. But before he could impress the judges with his voice, his youthful appearance had already sparked comparisons to pop superstar Justin Bieber.
Reed’s audition became a memorable moment from the show’s second season. His experience showed how challenging a major singing competition can be—and how a second chance can make all the difference.
A Young Singer With Big Dreams
Reed Deming was only 13 when he auditioned for the second season of The X Factor USA. At the time, the judging panel included Simon Cowell, Britney Spears, Demi Lovato, and L.A. Reid.
The competition offered aspiring singers a chance to perform before experienced music-industry figures. For a teenager, stepping onto that stage meant facing considerable pressure while trying to demonstrate confidence, personality, and vocal ability.
Reed immediately caught attention because of his age and resemblance to Justin Bieber, who was already a major name in pop music. However, the comparison did not mean Reed was destined to follow the same career path. He still had to show the judges that he could perform.
Simon Cowell Stops His First Song
For his audition, Reed chose Bruno Mars’ hit song “It Will Rain.” He began performing, but Simon Cowell was not convinced by the first attempt and stopped him.
Cowell wanted to hear more from the young singer. Rather than ending the audition there, Reed was given an opportunity to try a different song.
It was a tense moment for a young contestant. Being interrupted by a well-known judge could easily shake someone’s confidence, especially in front of a large audience and television cameras.
But Reed had another chance to demonstrate his ability.
His Second Song Changes the Audition
Reed then performed Bruno Mars’ “Grenade.” The change in song gave him another opportunity to show his voice, and the judges responded positively to the second performance.
Contemporary coverage reported that Reed received four yes votes and advanced to the next round. L.A. Reid also drew a comparison between the young contestant and Justin Bieber.
The moment highlighted an important part of talent competitions: a difficult beginning does not always determine the final result. Contestants may need to adjust, manage their nerves, and find the song that best suits their voice.
Reed’s audition also demonstrated that a familiar appearance can attract attention, but a performance still matters. The judges needed to hear what he could do as a singer before deciding whether he deserved another opportunity.
A Reminder That Every Singer Starts Somewhere
Reed Deming’s audition is memorable because it combines a familiar pop-star comparison with a genuine challenge on stage. His first song did not satisfy Simon Cowell, but he was able to try again—and ultimately earned approval from all four judges.
Whether or not a young contestant becomes the next global pop sensation, performances like this show the courage it takes to pursue a dream in front of a demanding audience.
What do you think of Reed’s audition? Did his second song change your opinion of him? Share your thoughts and remember that every successful musical journey begins somewhere.
