Stinging view of the X Factor; Star brands show as 'preposterous''.

Byline: Robert Weatherall

NORTH musician Sting has hit out at X Factor boss Simon Cowell saying his show is full of karaoke singers.

The Tyneside-born superstar has branded the programme a "preposterous talent show" which has "put music back decades". The former Police frontman claims that the ITV1 show is stifling creativity as contestants try to imitate successful artists rather than explore their own musical flair and individuality.

And in addition to criticising the quality of performances on the show, the former teacher also directed his frustration at the panel of four judges, which includes fellow Geordie chart topper Cheryl Cole, saying they were more interested in their own careers than the contestants and had no recognisable talent.

The 58- year old said of the contestants: "They conform to stereotypes. They are either Mariah Carey or Whitney Houston or Boyzone and are not encouraged to create any real unique signature or fingerprint.

"The X Factor is a preposterous show and you have judges who have no recognisable talent apart from self-promotion, advising them what to wear and how to look. It is appalling."

Cheryl's debut solo album is currently sitting at number one for a second week while last year's X Factor winner Alexandra Burke is riding high at number seven. Sting's latest album is sitting at number 15 - one spot higher than Peter Andre.

Sting also said he felt sorry for the contestants, which this year includes South Shields 18-year-old Joe McElderry, because most of them are being given false hopes of stardom.

He added: "I am sorry but none of those kids are going to go anywhere, and I say that sadly. They are humiliated when they get sent off. How appalling for a young person to feel that rejection. It is a soap opera which has nothing to do with music. In fact, it has put music back decades. Television is very cynical."

The singer said that stars of the future should learn their trade in the stomping grounds of pubs and clubs like he did. He added: "The real shop floor for musical talent is pubs and clubs, that is where the original work is. But they are being closed down on a daily basis. It is impossible to put an act on in a pub. It has become too expensive through excessive regulations. The music industry has been hugely important to England, bringing in millions. If anyone thinks the X Factor is going to do that, they are wrong."

CAPTION(S):

SYMPATHY Joe McElderry of South Shields. CRITICISM Sting says The X Factor has put music back decades. Inset, contestants John and Edward.