Walsh hoping for 'raw talent' from X Factor auditions

Want to follow in the footsteps of Leona Lewis, JLS or even Jedward? Monday 15 March was the public's last chance to apply to audition for this year's X Factor.

For the first time people could also upload their own video auditions that they made at home.

X Factor judge Louis Walsh says he thinks it will have helped budding singers.

He said: "Some people probably have more confidence at home with their family, so I think we'll see their raw talent and then we can get them into the studio. I think it'll be easier for younger people."

Louis says he's hoping for a better selection of groups entering this year.

"I want some really good contemporary groups," he admitted. "I don't just want the usual Celine Dion and all that type of thing.

"I want some really good boy bands, girl bands and maybe some really good mixed bands. It could be the year for a group to win it."

If you're debating about entering, Louis reckons you shouldn't hesitate.

"Do it, it's a great, great chance," he said. "Look at JLS they are absolutely massive.

"JLS are the best group we've ever had because they worked so hard behind the scenes, they so deserve their success.

"Alexandra [Burke] doesn't like this but they were the real winners."

Jedward demand

And of course it's not only JLS who are doing well. Louis is still managing Jedward from last year's series.

He said: "They haven't stopped working, the phone never stops ringing."

JLS were the "real winners" of the X Factor 2008 according to Louis Walsh

As well as tours, he says that "every panto is looking for them for Christmas and they are getting lots of TV offers for different series and shows".

Louis has been talking for the first time about the new series and admitted he hasn't received his contract yet.

But he says he was with Simon Cowell in LA last week and he told him he was definitely in.

"I don't know who else is back," he said. "I presume Simon [Cowell] and Cheryl [Cole] will be there, and maybe Dannii [Minogue] will.

"She worked really hard last year. I don't see why she shouldn't be back once the baby is born."

And Louis thinks there could be changes with this year's series.

"You never know with Simon," he said. "He never wants it to be predictable."

So what are his final tips for anyone wanting to join the X Factor roller coaster?

"It is a lot to do with attitude," he admitted.

"It's almost more important than being a great singer. It's about the way you walk in and the way you sell yourself.

"Stop copying people. You must be original looking and sounding. It's not a karaoke contest. You must have something original."