Student says Thornton work helped on X Factor

Singing the popular song “Bulletproof” by La Roux, Simone Battle, a sophomore majoring in music industry, wooed even the notoriously harsh critic Simon Cowell during her audition for the new Fox music competition show, The X Factor.

Tuesday night, after singing “Just Be Good To Me” by the S.O.S. Band, Battle failed to make it to the final 12.

Battle on · Simone Battle, a sophomore majoring in music industry, performs on The X Factor. She said her experience at USC helped her get on the show. - Photo courtesy of Simone Battle

As soon as Battle arrived at USC in her freshman year, she began preparing her audition material for The X Factor.

“She’s really a dedicated and inspiring individual,” said Chris Sampson, associate dean of popular music and music industry. “Her success comes from her dedication to keep learning and always keep an open mind.”

Battle’s experience at the USC Thornton School of Music was key in helping her secure a spot on The X Factor. She chose to major in music industry so she could perfect her music talent while becoming business savvy.

“It’s been my dream to be an artist, but I’ve always valued education,” Battle said. “I chose to major in music industry so that I wouldn’t be ignorant to the business side of my profession.”

Battle said with the business skills she acquires through the music industry major, she hopes to one day start a business of her own.

“Like Madonna, I’d love to run my own company one day, and without understanding how the industry works, I can’t be a good businesswoman,” Battle said.

Simone is recognized as a hardworking and talented performer by her professors, Sampson said.

“As a songwriter, Simone has incredible skill for writing hooks — both musically and lyrically,” Sampson said. “If produced properly, you could certainly imagine her songs on the radio.”

Battle aspires to enjoy great success as a performer and become a symbol in the music industry.

“I’ve always dreamed of being a pop icon, a world touring, diamond selling, history making, philanthropic artist,” Battle said.

Sampson said Battle’s unique voice will be instrumental to her success.

“As a performer, Simone clearly recognizes that you have to have distinctive vocal qualities to stand out in the profession and she was always willing to experiment to achieve this,” Sampson said.

Battle said she plans to use her experience on The X Factor to enhance her music career.

“The X Factor was a fun diversion from my path,” Battle said.  “I’m moving forward with no regrets and I plan to build an enduring music career.”