ION INDIE MAGAZINE August 2014, Volume 3 | Page 55

has a somewhat jaded view of his time with “The X Factor”--and even a sense of disillusionment.
Kenny shares that he was disappointed with the execs and the producers for some of their format and
dialogue decisions. And, the nudity that was shown in front of the children that participated in the making of
the show, in his opinion, was completely rigged just for ratings.
“They could of stopped it when it happened by shutting down the lights and had the individuals escorted off
the stage--but they didn't. They continued to roll camera. Shame on the execs--completely irresponsible!”
And regarding the “sustenance” served during the show, there was definitely a “caste” system--“Having
gourmet food catered in to the execs and then eating in front of the contestants was insulting. We were fed
Subway sandwiches the first day for lunch and left overs the remaining days. Junk food was in plentiful
portions--that was given; such as chips, peanuts, and candy. Sponsored by PEPSI, there was an abundance
of soda given to the contestants. WHAT professional singer drinks soda before going on stage? My Mother
always told me, “No sweets, soda, chocolate, or alcohol--it all sticks to your vocal chords!”
Kenny’s elation at making it to “Singer’s Boot Camp” was also a “let down”. “Sitting around on a chair for
eight hours a day in Boot Camp was very boring, I was under the impression we would be trained by
professional musicians and instructors. It was a joke--we felt like cattle.”
Summing up his views, “Bringing a new reality TV show to America, ratings and endorsements were the
only things the execs were after. Displaying goofballs, jerks and idiots ruined the show. So much talent
wasn't even shown on TV--including myself.”
“I had signed documentation stating that I would not reveal the television show’s unprofessionalism and
could face a $500,000 fine in doing so. Well, they can bill me.”
Kenny has plenty of pictures, itineraries, schedules, emails and correspondences that serve as a memory
of his time with “The X Factor’s” first-ever television season--enough to fill a scrap book. And in spite of the
good, the bad and the ugly, Kenny’s time with the show also left him re-energized in his resolve to make it
in the music industry.
“After ‘The X Factor’, I knew what I wanted to do with my life as a profession. I keep on telling my kids,
always go after your dreams—and don't ever let anyone tell you that you’re not good enough.” For more of
Kenny’s music, please visit:

www.reverbnation.com/kennymatel