The X factor and the Christmas No. 1

For the last few years The X Factor has become synonimous with two things, Simon Cowells abrasive put downs and the Christmas number 1.

For those who aren't aware having the number 1 record at christmas in the U.K. has for a long time been a must have for all musical artists it is a prestigious achievement.
As well as the traditional esteem it represents it is also the most profitable week to be number 1 due to the increased spending of the public in the weekend before christmas. It is a week that is specifically targeted by record companies as a real money spinner.

It all really began in 1973 when Wizzard and Slade released their christmas themed songs, "I wish it could be christmas every day" and "Merry Xmas Everybody"

The chrismas number one was then very much the home of christmas related songs and novelty records, but then reality tv emerged firstly with Popstars: The Rivals which launched Girls Aloud and in recent years The X Factor.

As much as I enjoy The X Factor I think it would be nice to see a return to hessian days of a christmas number 1 that was either a christmas themed songs or a novelty record. So how do things look for christmas 2008.

Well there may be hope the contenders are as follows:

Geraldine McQueen " Once upon a Christmas"

(Peter Kay's genius creation follows up her hit number 2 song "My winners song" with this funny and catchty hit that will never leave your - Over and over and over and over and over.... you will see . Written by the growing legend that is Gary Barlow of Take That fame -this has a genuine chance)





Ruth Jones and Rob Brydon "Islands in the Stream"

Taken from the ever funny Gavin and Stacey this will be an also ran.



Leona Lewis "Run"

Lewis' cover version of Snow Patrol's hit. Already released the more sombre song than others contending the number 1 this screams of 2003 when Mad World by Michael Andrews and Gary Jules beat out The Darkness.



Complete long shot but who better than the "Best Act Ever" at the MTV Europe music awards 2008 Rick Astley to topple The X Factor winner.