On the fifth live show of The X Factor 2009, Stacey Solomon delivered a performance that reminded viewers why music remains one of the most powerful forms of storytelling. Taking on Dusty Springfield’s iconic hit “Son of a Preacher Man,” Solomon didn’t merely perform—she inhabited the song, captivating both judges and the audience with a delivery that was equal parts sultry, soulful, and sincere.
Stacey, a then-20-year-old single mother from Dagenham, had already proven herself as one of the season’s most relatable and charismatic contestants. But it was her rendition of “Son of a Preacher Man” that crystallized her status as a standout performer. Dressed in a retro-inspired ensemble that paid subtle homage to the song’s 1960s origins, she took to the stage with a blend of humility and quiet confidence, immediately drawing the audience into her world.
From the very first note, Solomon brought emotional nuance to the performance. While other singers might have focused on technical precision, Stacey leaned into the song’s emotional undercurrents—longing, desire, and a hint of mischief. She played with dynamics and phrasing, teasing the audience with a vocal performance that felt both contemporary and timeless. There was an undeniable honesty in her tone—raw, slightly breathy, but deeply affecting. It was clear she wasn’t just covering a hit; she was telling a story.
The judges were quick to acknowledge the emotional power of her performance. Dannii Minogue praised her vocal control and authenticity, while Louis Walsh described her as “the most improved contestant of the week.” Cheryl Cole, herself moved by the rendition, highlighted Stacey’s ability to “connect with every single person in the room.” And Simon Cowell, notoriously hard to impress, called it “one of your best performances so far.”
The audience agreed. As the final note hung in the air, a wave of applause erupted across the studio, with many rising to their feet. It was a moment that transcended the competition—a young woman pouring her heart into a song and receiving a resounding emotional response in return.
“Son of a Preacher Man,” with its seductive groove and emotionally complex lyrics, has been covered by countless artists over the decades. But what made Solomon’s version stand out was her vulnerability. She didn’t try to outsing Dusty Springfield or reinvent the wheel. Instead, she stayed true to the core of the song while making it unmistakably her own.
Stacey’s performance that night served as a turning point in her X Factor journey. While she would go on to finish third in the competition, her version of “Son of a Preacher Man” remains one of her most celebrated moments—a reminder of what makes her so endearing as an artist. It wasn’t just about vocal prowess; it was about presence, truth, and the courage to wear her heart on her sleeve.
In the end, Stacey Solomon didn’t just perform a song. She created a moment—and that’s the kind of magic that lingers.
