EXCLUSIVE: Interview with X Factor ‘diva’ Raign

X Factor ‘Diva’ Raign, is interviewed by Suzanne Baum.

Raign: “People keep hugging me on the street”

She may have a reputation for being this year’s X Factor diva, but contestant Rachel Rabin this week told Jewish News how “overwhelmed” she has been by the positive response from the public.

Rabin was watched by millions as she reached the next stage of the ITV talent show after winning a standing ovation – and support from three of the four judges – with a rendition of her song Don’t Let Me Go.

But music mogul Simon Cowell expressed concern about the audience’s initial frosty reaction for the singer-songwriter, who launched into a monologue as she stepped on to the Wembley Arena stage, while fourth judge Cheryl Fernandez-Versini said she was “allergic” to her.

However, the former Wimbledon Synagogue member enthused: “The feedback I have experienced has been so positive I’m totally overwhelmed.”

“The negative comments from Cheryl has not influenced the public. When I get recognised on the streets, people keep hugging me.”

But she added: “Taking criticism is part of this journey.” As one of 12 singers who have progressed in the over-25s category, who will be mentored by Cowell, Rabin, whose stage name is Raign, refuses to let it go to her head.

“I have to remain grounded as I am very aware this is a reality TV show and it is like a rollercoaster ride,” she said.

“Despite how I appeared in the Wembley Arena audition, I am absolutely terrified.”

“Going on a show as big as X Factor is a massive platform and standing in front of four of the best people in the music industry is scary as they are so influential.”

Rabin – who worked for a year as an Amy Winehouse tribute act – describes herself as spiritual, but says she’s “very proud” to be Jewish.

She now spends her time travelling between her Kingston home and LA, where she has become good friends with her grandmother’s rabbi.

Rabin – whose late father was a Holocaust survivor – said: “My dream is to make it to the live shows and I’ll do the best I can. Behind the scenes, the judges have been very compassionate and supportive.”

 Suzanne Baum tweets HERE, and you can watch Raign’s audition performance here: