Elton John’s ‘Your Song’ Butchered by ‘X Factor’ Contestant Simone Battle

Rule No. 1 on any reality television singing competition: Remember the words. Tonight, contestant Simone Battle went blank during her performance of Elton John's 'Your Song' on 'X Factor.' Afterward, judge Simon Cowell joked that she made up an entirely new song.

Battle was battling for a spot in the Top 32. At this point in the competition, each contestant got to perform one song for the judges. Battle had leaned toward hip-hop songs in earlier rounds, but tried to show her range by taking on the classic rock ballad. Despite walking onstage with excessive confidence, Battle didn't shine. She quickly began mumbling her way through the song and left apologizing while pleading for the four to keep her anyway.

After the Top 32 are decided, the group will be split into four sub-groups and sent to a different judge's home for further coaching. Earlier, over 100 contestants were trimmed by one-third after a stressful group performance. The ultimate winner will receive $5 million.