Sting: 'X Factor is appalling and judges have no talent'

Sting has branded 'The X Factor' "appalling" and "preposterous", and has said that its judges have "no talent".

The former member of The Police slammed the show, saying that the TV format stamped down on individualism and was not the right breeding ground for music.

"I was looking at televised karaoke where they conform to stereotype," he said. "They are not encouraged to create any real unique signature or fingerprint. 'The X Factor' is a preposterous show and you have judges, who have no recognisable talent apart from self-promotion, advising them what to wear and how to look. It is appalling."

Sting added that for real talent people should look to their local venues. "The real shop floor for musical talent is pubs and clubs," he said. "That is where the original work is. But they are being closed down on a daily basis.

"It is impossible to put an act on in a pub. It has become too expensive through excessive regulations. The music industry has been hugely important to England, bringing in millions. If anyone thinks 'The X Factor' is going to do that, they are wrong."