He was an early frontrunner to win the series outright – and this evening Ben Haenow has been crowned the winner of The X Factor 2014.
After thousands of hotly contested auditions nationwide, The X Factor 2014 climaxed with one of the most competitive finales the show has ever witnessed, with 29-year-old Ben eventually triumphing.
Mentored by Simon Cowell, Ben – from Croydon, South London – captivated viewers from the outset. From the very first audition, where his rocky yet soulful vocals on the Bill Withers classic ‘Ain’t No Sunshine’ saw him instantly marked out as one to watch, Ben has consistently proven himself to be one of the finest and most magnetic new performers in the UK.
Ben’s debut single is his rendition of OneRepublic’s hit “Something I Need.” Produced by John Ryan it is immediately available for download. The CD will then be released on Wednesday 17th December and include recordings of some of Ben’s greatest moments on the show – ‘Jealous Guy, ‘Highway To Hell’ and ‘Man In The Mirror.’
The release of ‘Something I Need’ will be in aid of children’s charity Together for Short Lives, with Syco donating 100% of its profits from the sale of each CD and download and also from streaming to the charity. This is expected to be at least £1 for each CD and 20p for each download.
Speaking of Together For Short Lives, Simon Cowell says: “I have worked with this charity for many years and I’m delighted that The X Factor winner’s single sales will help families who are going through unthinkably difficult times. Together for Short Lives is such an inspiring and important charity which supports children all over the country. The money we hope to raise will really make a difference.”
Barbara Gelb, CEO of Together for Short Lives adds: “Our partnership with The X Factor continues to be transformational. Too many families struggle to cope with their child’s diagnosis and feel isolated and alone, not knowing who to turn to. Working with The X Factor has given Together for Short lives a unique opportunity to reach out to thousands of families so they know that they are not alone. The money raised through The X Factor winner’s single will make a real difference to local services, like children’s hospices, that deliver incredible care to children and families, helping them to make the most of their precious time together.”
The X Factor has been a permanent fixture on the nation’s televisions and in the public consciousness since it first appeared on our screens in 2004.
Ben Haenow will be headlining The X Factor Live Tour 2015, which will visit arenas nationwide in February and March. For tickets please see www.gigsandtours.com / www.seetickets.com
