The X Factor series 5 - Suzie Furlonger a Strong Contender?

One surprise to emerge from X Factor's bootcamp this year has been Suzie Furlonger.

Very little footage has been seen of Suzie, but she certainly impressed in bootcamp and looks a certainty for the live shows. The 27–year-old, (birthday tomorrow), who comes from Oswestry could be a favourite to win this series of X Factor.

Formerly in girl band “The 411” (Suzie, Tisha, Carolyn and Tanya) Suzie is no stranger to the music industry and the group released a succession of singles which are still available for purchase through the likes of Amazon. The group’s first single ‘On My Knees’ charted at number 4 and was swiftly followed by “Dumb”, both of which having been co-written by the group themselves. Ashanti penned one song and Lemar was largely instrumental in discovering the group.

Whilst in the group, Suzie was a regular on MTV saying at the time: “It’s been so crazy. Seeing yourself on the TV and hearing your song on the radio is a feeling I can’t describe. And when my friends saw it they were just like “Oh my god!” they were so shocked, but they have all been very supportive too, apart from the people I haven’t seen in years who have surprisingly just started phoning me up!”

The group's third single was also released, preceding their first album by one week, called "Teardrops", but only made 23 in the UK and they also did a cover of SWV’s hit "Weak".

However, and this is where it gets even more interesting… following the merger of Sony Music with BMG the group were dropped by Sony Music, and went their separate ways after unsuccessfully seeking a new record deal.

Sony? And which record company is Simon Cowell attached to?

The 411 split last September, with members Tanya Boniface and Tisha Martin starting their new group, Sunshyne. Suzie and Carolyn apparently deciding to keep their options open for other opportunities. Well we know now what one of those is!

So Suzie Furlonger is now in the battle to emerge as one of this series top 12 finalists for X Factor, and to be mentored by Dannii Minogue. She may not have had much publicity, but Suzie’s experience in the industry, her natural talent and fabulous voice should ensure longevity in the competition.

One little known fact is that she was apparently born with six fingers on her left hand.

Can she win? Well first she needs to emerge from Dannii’s rented home. The episode revealing the Judges homes will be televised next Saturday!

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