For Tim Olstad, once again, X marks the spot.

On Tuesday, Oct. 29, Olstad, a Cotter alumnus, performed on the “X Factor” advancing from the top 16 to the top 12.  He is now in a group of the final three men performing solo acts.

Performing “Always” by Bon Jovi, Olstad advanced after initially receiving a mixed reaction from the judges.  While Kelly Rowland only had positive things to say about his performance, Simon Cowell disagreed.  “I feel kind of like I went from a party to a funeral, and the funeral director started singing,” said Simon along with Demi’s agreement.
His performance, however, evoked positive reactions from Cotter’s student body.  “It was really great.  I really enjoyed watching him perform,” stated sophomore Alex Arnold.

The “X Factor,” is a series in which four judges determine who has star quality (the x factor) and deserves the $5 million grand prize and a recording contract.  The judges are Simon Cowell, Demi Lovato, Kelly Rowland, and Paulina Rubio.  The show splits the contestants into four categories: groups, girls, boys, and over 25 years old.

Tim faces his next challenge on Wednesday, Nov. 6, as he will once again try to impress the audience and judges to move to the next round. Ramblers everywhere will be cheering him on.