Judges ‘Blown Away’ By Rion Paige on ‘The X Factor USA’ Premiere
Performing in front of millions of people on The X Factor USA is challenging to say the least – but overcoming odds is what Rion Paige does and she blew the judges away.
The 13-year-old was born with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC), a rare disorder that caused a curving of the joints in her wrist. If not having the use of her hands wasn’t enough to rise above, Paige is also partially blind in her right eye.
“I’m scared because I think the judges won’t like me, or something,” Paige nervously confessed to her mom but said, “I know it’s worth taking a risk.”
She was apparently on the money, getting a standing ovation from the crowd and judges after her performance of Carrie Underwood’s “Blown Away” on the Season 3 premiere (Tues., 9/11).
Underwood even tweeted about Paige, writing “Very cool! What a beautiful young lady! Sing it, Rion!.”
Simon Cowell – the judge famous for his sometimes sour demeanor – called Paige “literally extraordinary” and compared her to Underwood’s days on American Idol. The Jacksonville, FL student easily moved past auditions in Charleston, NC.
This young talent is all over YouTube with renditions of other artists, such as Kellie Pickler, Martina McBride, and Adele.
Paige hopes her journey to become a X Factor finalist will inspire others with disabilities to follow their dreams.
Rion Paige sings “Blown Away” by Carrie Underwood on The X Factor USA:
Rion Paige celebrates her successful audition at The X Factor USA:
Rion Paige sings “Anyways” by Martina McBride”:
