Local punters at a small Northumberland pub were treated to a musical performance by former X Factor winner Steve Brookstein. The British singer, who won the first series of the popular talent show in 2004, performed at The Courtyard, a rustic converted farmhouse in Morpeth. Despite his pop star heyday being behind him, guests at the pub were serenaded by Brookstein’s gravelly, soulful voice as they enjoyed their drinks and meals, possibly unaware of his previous triumph on the show. Now 55 years old, Brookstein sported a black baker boy cap and spectacles, looking vastly different from his younger days.
Born in London, Brookstein was a jobbing singer in his thirties when he auditioned for The X Factor. Initially failing to impress judges Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne, it was head judge Simon Cowell who saw potential in him and sent him through to the next round. Brookstein eventually went on to win the competition, securing a record deal that promised to be life-changing. His first single, a cover of Phil Collins’ “Against All Odds,” reached number one in the UK, leading Cowell to hail him as the next Robbie Williams. However, his career soon hit roadblocks, with his debut album, “Heart And Soul,” reaching number one in the UK but failing to produce a successful second single, leading to him being dropped by his label, Sony BMG.
In the years following his X Factor win, Brookstein has been outspoken about his negative experiences on the show, comparing it to WWE and claiming he was mistreated during his time on it. He has continued to write and record music, with plans to release a new album, although it has been a decade since his last studio album. Despite the challenges, Brookstein now lives in Scotland with his family and performs occasionally in small venues, singing soul covers. He recently played at Esher Theatre in Surrey alongside 90s boyband East 17 and continues to engage with his fans on social media.
Brookstein’s recent performance at The Courtyard in Morpeth was met with appreciation from the audience. However, a scheduled show at the Merryfield Theatre in Verwood, Dorset, was canceled due to ill health, with the singer losing his voice. While the cancellation disappointed ticket holders, they were given the option of a full refund or to roll over their tickets to a future event at the venue. Despite this setback, Brookstein remains hopeful for future performances and new music releases. His long-standing career in the music industry, post-X Factor win, reflects the challenges and triumphs of a reality show contestant navigating the complexities of the music business.
