Danyl Johnson - X Factor Journey

Danyl Johnson was a 27 year-old school teacher who came to the X Factor with a dream to become a worldwide superstar. Danyl's Audition was praised by Simon Cowell as the best first audition he ever heard. Danyl made it all the way to finish just shy of the X Factor Final and as a result finished in 4th place. Here's a trip down memory lane of His time on The Factor UK.
Songs Performed:
Audition: Joe Cocker - With A Little Help From My Friends
Bootcamp: Simply Red - Holding Back The Years
Judges Houses - Alicia Keys - Fallin'
Live Show 1: Jennifer Hudson - And I Am Telling You
Live Show 2 - Whitney Houston - I Didn't Know My Own Strength
Live Show 3 - Muse - Feeling Good
Live Show 3 (Sing Off) - Joe Cocker - With A Little Help From My Friends
Live Show 4 - Aerosmith - I Don't Want to Miss A Thing
Live Show 5 - Prince - Purple Rain
Live Show 6 - Queen - We Are The Champions
Live Show 7 - George Michael - Careless Whisper
Live Show 8 Song 1 - Take That - Relight My Fire
Live Show 8 Song 2 - Elton John - Your Song
Live Show 9 Song 1 - Michael Jackson - Man In The Mirror
Live Show 9 Song 2 - Whitney Houston - I Have Nothing
#XFACTORUK
#XFACTORSEASON6
#XFACTOR2009

[@Kat.Evangeline]

Why would anyone hate Danyl? He's a school teacher that is an amazing singer and wants to be a performer so haters can just go hate on themselves instead!!!

[@VulpinetideCuteTimes0w0]

It's because he doesn't have some cheesy sob story that makes him sympathetic to the public or "The ordinary person." He's above that, he starts out extraordinary, and they don't like it. They want ordinary people with sob stories to rise to the top, it's this show's dumb mythos they have to abide by because they know it gets more views and better ratings, it's fake as fuck.

[@WifeofaJer]

@@VulpinetideCuteTimes0w0 my thoughts put into better words. I was just going to say the judges criticized because they didn't get to say awe you poor thing.

[@twocake5099]

This Dany got 2 blue eyes that’s all.. Hey do you heard a hit from her? When ? Where? Pfff she’s Has been its my opinion.

[@shaym4306]

he's truly fuckin incredible. People hate cuz they're bitter

[@freemangriffin4953]

I just don't get it? Why would anyone hate him? He is AMAZING! I found him quite humble - what am I missing? I LOVE HIM!

[@user-nr2yv5wo8p]

Such an amazing young man. Not a trace of arrogance. Super talented. Truly under rated by many.

[@dennystewart3238]

I absolutely cannot understand why people hate him. He is a sweet, humble guy who is just trying to live his dream.

[@summersnow9721]

Perhaps those haters don't have a Dream and aren't living their dream. What an example to his students . . . and everyone. Amazing talent.

[@dianaspears571]

Apparently they didn't like what they perceived to be his cockiness. Over here in the USA, we love that! Jump the pond Daniel, we'd love to have you!

[@user-pc6sq6ys2h]

​@@summersnow9721aqqq344al Pwonderful

[@HealandRise]

❤ absolutely..he's adorable, talented, sweet, quirky.... genuine...good performer.

[@mariadoloreslugo2424]

I think the public likes him it’s the judges that make it seem like they don’t 😤

[@eon001]

It's the bullshit game the judges play. They build up an act and tear them down for drama. There not genuine at all. That's why I stopped watching X-Factor years before it got cancelled.

[@octaviusshrimpson8002]

It’s rigged in his first audition he got a ton of praise from both the audience and the judges but in his other performances the judges criticise him for being too overconfident so when he tries to not be overconfident in his performances they still criticise him saying he’s lost his mojo it’s awful what they do to such talented singers and for him to go out like that was an outrage

[@lukedoherty6414]

Octavius Shrimpson from tiktok I see

[@octaviusshrimpson8002]

Luke Doherty I don’t use Tiktok

[@francisdubem5084]

Octavius Shrimpson I’m glad I’m not the only one who noticed that.

[@lisamanrique1770]

Danyl singing "I get by with a little help from my friends" was like being at a concert. He has a great voice and nice to look at too.

[@lyremetrics]

He honestly deserved to win

[@chichipriscilla467]

So mean of those two judges. I quess they were intimidated by his great voice and personality. They then destroyed him by saying that he is corky when he was only being himself. A good singer and performer.thanx Simon for defending him. I think I heard Simon saying he's gonna work with him. Respect to both

[@freemangriffin4953]

ABSOLUTELY DESERVED TO WIN!

[@anddinnburrell6401]

The industry is cruel at times. He’s a voice for the world

[@aidacandelario9910]

Danyl Johnson is a daredevil on stage but I can tell he's very humble and that's amazing. One of the best

[@WifeofaJer]

Exactly they tell them to have fun and now they say you're being cocky. Then to bring up something in taboloids

[@orianacarla5481]

the judges except for Simon did him an injustice, they allowed their judgement to be clouded by their own personal nonesense and influenced the public. his original energy was exactly what he needed to win and be a star (own pesonality and class) and the judges destroyed that and made him less that what he was and deserved! .

[@paulahowse6543]

I think Cheryl and Dani fancied him and were jealous that he was in Simons catergory

[@Pattyk2020]

I still think he is one of the BEST singers ever. He has it all!!

[@nancykelly9712]

The two female judges sabotaged him by telling everybody they thought he was cockey and over confident! If you want to criticize make it constructive and NOT personal criticism!! He sings his heart out every single week, how can someone criticize for that?!! He's FANTASTIC!! He lost his MOJO because of the bullying headlines!!

[@freemangriffin4953]

And also they outed him as gay - what was wrong with those women judges? Can't believe he didn't win.

[@MRJORD-gw1wc]

Exactly! Cheryl exerted her power and popularity over him, basically got her claws right into him and never let go.

[@redneckgirl2894]

ABSOLOOOOTELY TRUE!! They broke him and doubt in everyone's mind voting about him and his true persona...Still to this day his performances (especially his first!!!) has been the one I go to! I LOVE HIM and he should've been supported by ALL the judges, not just Simon! Absolutely heartbroken they portrayed him as over confident thru his journey when it takes guys to put yourself out there to begin with! Bless you buddy 🙏 you're audition and performances following will also be watched again by me! Much love thru all these years and forward, Jenn from Canada 🇨🇦

[@luanaluana71]

They are the worst two judges on the show and are not even good singers.

[@valerienaves]

those same judges that were flirting with him like crazy in his first audition! what a couple of **tches!!

[@fawkesontheroll8594]

You can physically see his spark be squeezed out through the course of this video

[@kristinahasonova5408]

I agree. The joy from the first performance disappeared during the competition. This competition was not for him at all.

[@kristinahasonova5408]

Such a lovely soul voice and sing We are the champions ....no.

[@weallmakechoices7456]

@fawkes They were on a mission to destroy. This is the weirdest attack. Danyl if you ever read this - I thought you were inspired and fantastic and should have won.

[@mellowyellow2022]

It's so sad. He sings better than all 4 judges put together. He's nice and moving the stage is great to watch.

[@esthergdn3722]

That's call a performer, not a cocky attitude!

[@naturalbby1722]

18:54 overconfident how?? He was confident as he should be on-stage 19:19 This was totally uncalled for!!

[@anufajemisin4348]

Ditto.

[@nanceb4him]

I totally agree with Simon on his every performance. Two things, the best movement he has done so far, is the first audition, his authentic moves to the entire song that HE created and there is where he engaged with the audience most. He must always be singing in his mind to those who love him.

[@chechesue]

i love him...he didnt make it to the finals because they were scared of him winning the whole damn thing

[@WifeofaJer]

The light he had in his eyes when he first started the compitition was looking mighty dim

[@hitchhiker8798]

They really played him. No one should ever take part in these competitions. They manipulate people and play with their future just for views. Just cruel.

[@russkelme666]

I would say he is the most talented male contestant they have had. How this guy didnt go on for major hits

[@MRJORD-gw1wc]

Ah well, he sings on the Postcode Lottery now.

[@kimberphsn]

So adorable and my favorite guy singer of all x factor contestants

[@jlsg87]

One of the best first Auditions ever.

[@avatomlinson9124]

Are they kidding me. These judges need to realize it is not about them. It is so sad that they get up there and compete against each other instead of giving the content a fair chance. If it was someone else they could have broken his spirit. They are a joke.

[@lisaiyoha6473]

I don’t get it?? What’s there NOT to like? The guys a natural born talent and I feel an honest and genuine personality. He’s definitely not arrogant! He is confident as he should be! He’s an incredible talent!! Go Dante!! Gods given you a musical gift!!

[@heidistrand4702]

Danyl is one of the best singers I have EVER heard. And CUTE. Jealous people making up lies about him. He is not cocky at all just trying to be a showman. Geesh. LOVE HIM.

[@edwardsrubyg]

Of course you're not cocky... you're simply BRILLIANT!!! Best wishes ❣️ sadly, the judges play mind games.You're charming and seem humble and you should know, you're most lovable 🥰

[@lydialanata8714]

❤🎉😮

[@francisdubem5084]

Danyl didn’t deserve the rubbish he went through. He was confident, charismatic and a great singer. The judges (apart from Simon) were unfair.

[@medmar76]

And he sang with high energy and pure joy, which you can't put a price on.

[@SandraConley-pg5qx]

Daniel's fantastic

[@chelseafcgirl123]

These shows are poison they really play with peoples lives for views. You literally saw the deterioration of the ‘spark’ and that was due to them picking at him weekly and making him look a certain way to fit a narrative. Now I’m older I realise they did this to a lot of contestants and it’s vile. I don’t watch these shows anymore. Danyl is a great talent and a natural performer, I wonder if he will ever candidly discuss his experience on the show.

[@emmahodgson6610]

I believe all X factor contestants had to sign gag orders in order to appear on the show 🤷‍♀️

[@s.rosesmith-hayes8740]

He found himself with 'I'm Feeling Good' . He nailed it.

[@TheDreamSpiritWeaver]

He has the perfect balance of yin and yang... knows how to command presence and shine, essentially be AMAZING; and then hold space/be humble/perform for others. He is a prime example of how someone's light and talent can be put out with ignorance & illusion. I see you Danyl x

[@cherylmoore7439]

Love him,what happened to him?

[@sointeresting3938]

Danyl is a very likeable person. Genuine too. The only reason anybody said that they hated him is because they were mimicking the behavior of the other judges who were simply jealous of this contestant and only wished that he would have been on their own team. They were petty and Danyl unfortunately suffered the consequences. His talent is truly outstanding though and no-one can take that away from him.

[@traciemac9533]

Danyl is brilliant. The way the judges, other than Simon, treated him was criminal. The female judges made it difficult to watch. Danyl absolutely did not deserve the vitriol from them. Thank goodness for Simon. I hope Danyl never stops singing.

[@amandajoyce6619]

They ALL loved hom. Where was the Vitriole!!!!

[@johnelsliger6796]

How can you dislike his performances , he was spectacular and certainly deserved to win ....

[@cindymorrow6784]

When he is allowed to have fun with the song he is phenomenal. They're ridiculous with him. He's fabulous. The songs they're giving him are NOT his style. His choice of music is better for him, and he has FUN with it.

[@carlweston3698]

I thought the songs they chose for him were not only not his style, but some songs were just awful boring songs no matter who sings them.

[@roseleenramos9675]

he is a performer.. he sung different songs from different artists.. that's really talented.. tnx to Simon for backing him up...

[@moz2110]

these three jokes should be the knew 3 stooges good on you Simon. Danyl don't ever let clowns like those 3 judges stop you from achieving your goals love your work buddy

[@WifeofaJer]

Their comments are a big part of why the audience haven't connected. People always want to rip away confidence. They mistake it for Ego

[@alynjones3389]

he was better than the judges and they ruined him

[@cherylseebreth328]

Still my favourite after 11 years.

[@rahulchatterjee4177]

Its painful to see a talent like this to go through what he did, on national television

[@VulpinetideCuteTimes0w0]

How's he "overconfident?" What he do? or not do?

[@francisdubem5084]

They playing mind games. It was really stupid. He deserves more in credit.

[@Pattyk2020]

Love you! This young has more talent in his body, than most out there!!! I love him!!

[@hethpadmore4167]

As a child he's an imitator but as an adult he's areal man who's tougher an shines more than he knows for because of unrelenting public criticism he shines like a diamond who can't be compared to another since he hasn't given up

[@leekent6939]

Why oh why did the judges ruin him he was sensational 👌

[@cherryannwoods2020]

Beautiful man, beautiful voice, beautiful soul all round xxxx

[@naturalbby1722]

39:26 I respect Simon for doing that defending him like that!!! No matter the race he will back you up if you have the talent!!!

[@freemangriffin4953]

Danyl ought to have won that season - AMAZING!!!!

[@beverlyannjohnson9679]

I couldn’t agree more with this comment. Great work to Danyl and Simon. You both deserve great accolades.

[@thomasbarske8594]

I would buy every album he released👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@TheJulieVirgo]

Simon cowell and sometimes louis is the only ones who can clearly hear, HES amazing

[@oliviacardonefarrell524]

1. Danyl was extremely pitchy (especially in the beginning). Period. 2. That said, enthusiam is a good thing. I never got "over-confident" from him. 3. How in the actual hell did that woman think it was alright to try to out a man on television?? True or not, you do NOT force someone out of the closet -- ESPECIALLY not on stage in front of an audience. 4. He really did grow throughout the competition, taking criticism well and doing his best to take the advice given to him and apply it. The guy was attractive, charismatic, and hardworking. I just feel bad for how much hate he got.

[@Humbleme1224]

Who said the man was trying to say he was gay? Maybe there is something I haven't read that indicated that he is. And as far as the being pitchy, it is not easy performing in front of a large audience of people when you never have. A lot of those singers that come on has been doing it, if nothing but for churches, bars, etc.

[@babsphillips8583]

I couldn't have said it better, Olivia. I agree with everything you wrote. Good observations! 100% right on! His performance at 31:30 was CRAZY INSANELY AMAZING!

[@bphlebotomist67]

This was 2009 can you imagine how people would react to Danny's comment today? I agree that what she said was totally crossing the line. She doesn't know his story so how can she know if he's gay or if he's come out to friends and family if he is. It's definitely not her place to say anything 😳

[@maryrowell1122]

I like his attitude and I like his voice

[@clariciabergman2337]

I love him I also think it is the judges that didn't like him except for Simon... But I loved every performance. SA LOVE YOU SIR

[@s.rosesmith-hayes8740]

Watched him grow as a singer, he listened to his coaches. totally different singer from the first audition.

[@imonearthnow1903]

He was a stallion and they broke him.

[@naturalbby1722]

He met Whitney Houston 😩😱😱

[@aspenrebel]

Yeah! Yikes! I didn't know she was still alive.

[@softpillows777]

Imagine everytime he performs with a backup he turns around and appreciate them. Not all performer does that.

[@julindagaviola8923]

so true...

[@MrNathandwarner]

Due respect to Robbie, but 15:50s advice may have been the opposite of what Danyl needed. Maybe it is just me, but half the reason I loved Danyl's first audition is precisely because he didn't plant his feet! One of the only contestants ever who didn't! I think I see where he's coming from like.

[@HollPitchfork]

AGREED

[@imonearthnow1903]

Nothing irks people in show business more than to have someone show up on stage as an amateur and perform like a world Star.

[@moz2110]

mate i can not understand these judges when someone is good you just need to humble yourself and see it for what it is (nothing short of brilliant, amazing performer, this guy is the complete package)and without a doubt he can out sing any one of those judges their comments are confusing at best of times Simon is the only one who at least has stuck by his guns and i believe he is right and the only one that matters. I just am in shock at the way the judges have treated this guy but at least he won in the end. good job Simon

[@angiefountain1208]

What a lovely bloke, amazing singer and really good looking 😊💞

[@contraccionexpansion]

Two problems: to do the perfect audition ever seen the first day, and chose songs that dont goes with his nature...he.is not a serious singer , he is a explosing of joy and rythim... only the firts and last songs are his style...Thank you Danyl you are amazing...

[@imonearthnow1903]

This incredible singer/artist has never received the attention he should have. He should have gone on to become a super star on the world stage but it was not allowed for some untold reason.

[@lizawake614]

What happened to after? I have to find him. I am an intuitive behaviorist...personally and professionally.... I saw a humble talent sensitive guy who love to perform and got bashed for it......I love you Danyl...

[@dorotheaferguson587]

I just love danyl Johnson and truly enjoys watching him. Thank you.

[@twocake5099]

Danyl You Have The XFACTOR FOR SÛRE !!!! Don’t give up AND RETURNS FOR XFACTOR 2021 PPLLEEAASEE!!! I am a french woman and I believe in YOU !!!!

[@freemangriffin4953]

Why had I never heard of him before now? 2021! My gawd, he is AMAZING!!!!! Love love love love him!

[@patriciadavis1393]

Why are people hating on him I did not realize that because I live in Canada and didn't see the publicity he is an awesome singer and person and they are bastards for doing this to him

[@deloreslatham5057]

That Prince song- beautiful! What a God given talent you have.

[@maybellepaulino8129]

Danyl Johnson is LOVE. 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻

[@carlweston3698]

This video was heartbreaking to watch. He starts out with such an amazing performance, and then is told to perform songs clearly not his style with opinions about his personality, that slowly drains him of the lovely spirit he arrived with. What was said in the tabloids about him was slander. Disgusting.

[@rstrajt9220]

Love him.

[@cocospots]

He is actually very talented.. I will never ever understand the path of the genre they sent him on I feel it was so wrong for his vocal ability and looks I truly feel the path hurt his future and career...

[@carlweston3698]

The song choices made for him were just awful.

[@tamaraderry3930]

He was sabotaged by the other judges hatred of Simon...He didn't have a chance. Too bad because he was phenomenal. That's how to destroy a person. Way to go Cheryl, Dani, and Louise...do you sleep well at night??? Oh wait, Danyl who? The moment he walked off stage they were moving on ....

[@roselypellegrino]

Danyl Johnson I love your voice, your performancem you are amazing singer, and I love you so much! Rosely Pellegrino, Maricá RJ Brasil.

[@penandroll9287]

This young fellow deserves everything the world has to offer...hope hes doing fine.

[@jayjaykidd3411]

Omg, didn't even listen to the judges yet, but just got to say that it was great. All you gotta do is listen to the audience, they know. They were clapping for you, cheering for you, you were great.

[@mikeykerin3272]

Dani and Cheryl, leave him alone

[@twocake5099]

Yeah two bitches!

[@aspenrebel]

Dannii

[@iluvmyniknik]

He is amazing and deserved to win!!!

[@shannansweet6346]

Wow! Just a really amazing singer! Notice how the judges comments sure did change as time went on ... as they realized that their stupid judgements made him a less energetic and authentic human and a more depressed and fake person. Making an artist bottle up enthusiasm? Why are they even judging people? Danyl is a talented performer! AND WTF ... who wants to go see a show and not see a performance?

[@sandradobratz7401]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤I loved his first audition and his energy and joy! The judges pounded him, too bad, you can't make others happy, not your job Danyl. Just always be yourself!! You are a very special awesome Soul!! A gift for this planet! 👍🎶❤️

[@Christina-do5gp]

Danyl, you rocked it the whole Show 😍

[@zuzieanne1842]

How can we ruin someone's ambitions with a few insulting words? It's an extraordinary voice. I loved his tone of voice His covers from the first audition.One of the best I've heard. The delight of his voice. A showman. They didn't understand anything. This boy has a gold bar. wow!! rare. Powerful, a bit of a crazy horse but who controls everything. AWESOME. A sacred monster. I Adore Danyl. He is hyper active, needs to give his all to what he does. He is also an immense performer who must move to feel vibrate. His loving warmth is palpable. I would have listened to it endlessly. I listen to it often, still to this day. THANK YOU Danyl Johnson . May luck smile on you

[@AussieGirl235]

Danni questioning his sexuality in front of everyone is an absolute C

[@stephene.5247]

He’s an amazing singer!

[@eduardosawal6685]

His total entertainer, One of the best performer, the impact is really good. He had a heart to sing.

[@sueduncan6481]

Oh my god he’s wonderful, I’m so proud for him.X

[@jasonhernandez6291]

Gotta be at work at 9 and I found my self watching this whole video till the end lol well worth it .. good luck mate

[@francisdubem5084]

Cheryl was so mean to Danyl.

[@chichipriscilla467]

Very rude and bitchy. So unfair danny

[@chichipriscilla467]

Sorry

[@auleelis9580]

All judges except Simon!😊

[@Doreana48501]

I think we are watching here is the destruction of an amazing Entertainer by the Judges of all people. Danyl is is exactly what the X Factor is all about. Looking for the XFactor. Personality Dancer Confidence and Ability to Sing. What else do they need a Winner to look like.

[@angelashrum3581]

19:17 WTAF?!?! Did a female judge just try to OUT him on live television, based on a supposed rumor (she may be making up), in order to get people not to vote for him??? What the hell is wrong with her? And then she dared repeat it, and it didn't get addressed and she straightened out then and there?! How humiliating and shameful if her to do that!!! What the hell is the matter with her?! How was this allowed?! How could she keep judging? This is morally disgusting. Ugh I'm offended and sickened by this. Poor Danyl.

[@caroleantoine2782]

Danyl, I pray you came up fighting. I have not caught up with your amazing talent. You were given this gift so therefore, let no one distract you. Well, I'll keep watching and hope to witness your greatness. Know that you are more loved by many and hated by very few. Keep wearing that 👑. Simon you sir is very correct with your judgement.

[@Justmefornow]

I thought he was brilliant. Where is he now, in 2019?

[@xfactor-unofficialchannel5948]

He is a Presenter on the Postcode Lottery.

[@Justmefornow]

@@xfactor-unofficialchannel5948 Thanks.

[@rosiotrujillo8552]

Danyl is amazing ❤

[@JoanneJaworski]

I don't know how anyone in the spotlight withstands the cruel attacks. Danyl is such a talented and amazing performer! So glad that Brian May made his comments to him. He got his performer confidence back!

[@angellabucknor1783]

Jamaica is here 🇯🇲🌈🦜 So inspirational Yes I can Thank You Danyl

[@franceskajacobs2766]

Amazing natural born entertainer he was great he owned the stage love him great job God bless u and ur family

[@Christina-do5gp]

Love Simon for his Personality ❤️

[@cmos6199]

Great singer! He loves performing! He loves the children he teaches. Humble man. Please DON'T HATE People!!!

[@brendadouglas4706]

BJ here. 🌟 Sing the somg Daniel!!!🎤🎼🎶💕 Woooo! That is what a true woman wants to hear from a man!❣

[@IvyS81]

He smashed it with "Man in a mirror"...his No.1 performance :D

[@shaym4306]

His purple rain performance

[@robynmusso869]

Danyl Your Perfect Just The Way You Are! Please Don’t Let Those Judges Break You! You Are An Outstanding Singer and They Only Wish That They Had The Ability To Sing Like You! Your Amazing! Your Not Over Confident, Your Preforming Like Any Other Professional Artist Would!

[@violetpowell4750]

Danyl Johnson your vocal are so soulful all your pupils and every else that knows you are proud that you have taken this steps. Well done

[@garysmith5781]

This guy can sing, he is a great performer, he needs to do his own thing. These competitions are such BS.. The judges all have their pick, then they get dirty on the others.. Should only be about talent, period. I hope he is doing what he loves. And what the hell was Dani trying to do with that gender comment, not what is in the papers...seriously rude and EXTREMELY unprofessional, disgusting actually..

[@carlweston3698]

I totally agree. They did a number on his head to begin with, but Dani’s reference to what was in the tabloids was deplorable.

[@robbiekeen9508]

Danyl can sing anything...literally ❤❤❤❤

[@roseleenramos9675]

Just can't believe that he didn't make it to finals...

[@barnielee2]

Daniels struggle reminds me of Frank Sentra - You don't give up to get your dreams - absolutely a great singer

[@Mechanized2k]

Danyl, many years later and I always remember this one. Thank you for making me feel good.'

[@mellowyellow2022]

Love him, his energy, belief in himself, great stage performance...I watched his first audition 10 times or more. You're great Darnyl.

[@twocake5099]

Goddam ! Where was the Golden Buzzer?????