Jai Waetford

 Jai Waetford one of the Finalists of The X Factor  (Australia series 5) 

Jai Waetford was a 14 year-old contestant from Campbelltown, New South Wales who sang two songs at his audition. The first song was "Different Worlds" by Jes Hudak and the second was an original song titled "Don't Let Me Go". Waetford's family and friends inspired him to audition for The X Factor. He lives with his mother Alana Dow and grandparents Hannah and Roger Dow.Waetford's father, who now lives in Switzerland, left him and his mother when he was young. However, they still keep in contact. Waetford has been compared by many to Justin Bieber. He plays guitar and writes his own songs. Waetford taught himself how to play guitar from watching videos on YouTube. He sees Justin Bieber, Michael Jackson, Bruno Mars, Elvis Presley, Guy Sebastian and Stevie Wonder as his musical influences. Prior to entering The X Factor, Waetford was a student at Campbelltown High School of the Performing Arts. He placed third in the competition.

 Justin Bieber Praises ‘X Factor Australia’ Finalist Jai  Waetford 

“The X Factor Australia” finalist Jai Waetford might not have bagged the coveted title in the show, but he already has an international star for a fan. Justin Bieber has announced that he’s a fan of the 14-year-old Australian student, saying that he was really impressed by his talent.

Jai was one of the favourites on the Channel 7 talent competition show, ultimately placing third behind winner Dami Im and runner-up Taylor Henderson on the finale on October 28.

During his audition, he sang two songs for the judges. He first sang “Different Worlds” by Jes Hudak, but due to judge Ronan Keating’s insistence, he also played his original song “Don’t Let Me Go.” He impressed the judges so much that Ronan had to stand on the desk twice.

And in a rare moment, he also made the fun-loving Redfoo cry.

Although he wasn’t able to nab the top prize, his mentor Ronan assured him that he can turn to him if he needed support in his career.

Now it looks like that Jai has been given a boost in popularity by Justin Bieber when the Canadian heartthrob praised him on his Instagram page.

Jai Waetford: Different Worlds & Don't Let Me Go - Auditions -  The X Factor Australia 2013