Auditions in Dublin as Simon Cowell searches for boyband

Jackie Fox Jackie Fox | 07-29 00:15

More than 200 people have gathered in Dublin city centre to audition for music mogul Simon Cowell.

The former X Factor judge is in the capital to search for members of a new boy band.

Auditions are being held at the Exo Building in the north inner city.

Mr Cowell initially announced that the auditions would be held over two days in Dublin. However, that was shortened to one day.

More than 200 people have gathered in Dublin city to audition for Simon Cowell's new boyband

The 64-year-old launched his boy band campaign earlier this year with the slogan: "Simon Needs You."

Young men have travelled from all around the country and abroad to try and impress him.

'Got the look'

Cillian O'Brien, a 24-year-old from Co Cork, said the audition was a nerve-racking experience.

He said: "You go into this room and there's this massive, long hallway.

"You're walking for two minutes before you see anyone and then you're like when do I say hi?

"There's four judges that you sing for, and it lasts for about two minutes and you're out the door again."

But, Mr O’Brien said he was happy, adding "I did my best".

He said he was told that he will find out by September if he is successful.

Nathaniel Frindall and Jude Harper-Wrobel, roommates who travelled from London, are auditioning for the boyband.

They make R&B pop music, and the 18-year-olds believe that the chemistry between them is strong.

"I think moving in together and working [on our music] sets us apart," Mr Frindall said.

He described the duo as "dedicated" and "disciplined".

Danann O'Dowd, a 16-year-old from Co Westmeath, was attending the audition with support from his dad.

"I'd say I've got an equal chance to everyone else, but God, would it be cocky to say I've got the look?" he said with his shades on.

His dad, Michael, said it was a great experience for all the young people.

"Regardless if people are successful or not, it's that experience of doing it. It's brilliant," he said.

Songwriter and music producer, Savan Kotecha, said he has been speaking with Mr Cowell about making a new boyband for a while.

"I think there is always going to be boybands in popular culture, if you look at K-Pop and BTS and how they have taken over the world," Mr Kotecha said.

"I just think it's all cyclical," he added.

The songwriter said he believed "we're at a time where it's needed in society".

"That kind of escapism, fun and phenomenon is needed," he said.

Mr Kotecha got his first big break with Westlife and wrote One Direction's massive hit 'What Makes You Beautiful'.

He said it is not just a good voice that they are searching for, but personality and a "twinkle in their eye".

"I love the Irish personality ... and if we find another [Niall Horan] we'll be golden," he said.

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