Simon Cowell: I’m Greek at the knees
Greek goddess ... Aliki Chrysochou
Published: 24th January 2013
SIZZLING soprano Aliki Chrysochou left Simon Cowell gobsmacked with her performance at the BGT auditions.
The singer was welcomed with wolf-whistles and cheers as she walked on stage and sent temperatures soaring.
And she told the stunned audience how singing became her lifeline after battling back from the deadly brain bug encephalitis.
Half-Greek music teacher Aliki, who has sung professionally, impressed with a rendition of Evanescence’s Bring Me To Life.
'Gobsmacked' ... Simon Cowell
She revealed: “I am blessed that I’m here today.
“A few years ago I was diagnosed with encephalitis.
“Everything I learnt when I was a baby was all gone — all co-ordination and my speech. I couldn’t speak, read, write or walk. My mother had to do everything — feed me and bathe me. She was my voice when I couldn’t speak.
“When I was at the hospital one night she started singing to me. It was the first time I responded — by humming — after a very long time.”
Aliki got a standing ovation for her song choice, which had the lyrics “Bring Me To Life”, and BGT judge Amanda Holden said: “I can’t imagine what your mum must be thinking. The words were so poignant — the song was for your mum.”
Simon told Aliki she had “natural talent”, adding: “I don’t want you to go.”
He said: “There’s something very moving. Having heard your story, everyone wanted you to do well.” An emotional Aliki revealed: “Everything happened in a matter of ten days.
“I couldn’t speak, walk or write. It was like a switch had turned off.
“Singing was the only thing I could do after I recovered. I can’t believe I’m here.”
She went through with four “yes” votes. Simon said: “This is the easiest ‘yes’ I’ve given.”
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/4760091/simon-cowell-Im-greek-at-the-knees.html#ixzz2UdQrCjdS