James hoping to impress judges panel

He’s confident ahead of the King’s Hall showdown having already stood out at auditions last month.

The 21-year-old said: “A friend of mine who is a singing teacher contacted me to tell me about it.

“I went down to audition on October 20 in King’s Hall. I did an original song called The Lucky One.”

James, who works in Moy Park and the Corner House, said: “I’m fairly confident about it. I’ve played some big venues before.

“For just under two years I was a member of Last Minute Earl, a local five-piece band.

“During our time together we played numerous gigs in bars and clubs throughout the Lurgan/Craigavon area, including the Christmas lights show and as a supporting act for Flash Harry.

“We also played regularly in Belfast, including the Limelight.

“On a few occasions we played south of the border including Whelans in Dublin and a small festival in Kilkenny.”

The former Lismore pupil added: “I’d like a career in music. I write very personal lyrics in a way that people can relate to. I write simple acoustic music. I taught myself guitar and got a bit of tutoring as well.”

He has been performing for the past five years.