Yes, James Arthur did cover the song "Impossible." His rendition of the track became his debut single after winning the ninth series of The X Factor in 2012.
The Story Behind James Arthur's "Impossible"
"Impossible" was originally released by Barbadian singer-songwriter Shontelle in 2010. The song gained international recognition, but it was James Arthur's powerful and emotional interpretation that catapulted it to even greater fame, especially in the UK and Ireland.
Original vs. Cover
While Shontelle's original version was a success, James Arthur's cover introduced the song to a wider audience and showcased his unique vocal talent. His version transformed the track into a dramatic ballad, resonating deeply with listeners.
Here's a comparison of the two notable versions:
| Feature | Shontelle's "Impossible" (Original) | James Arthur's "Impossible" (Cover) |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2010 | 2012 |
| Artist | Shontelle | James Arthur |
| Album | No Gravity | James Arthur (self-titled debut album) |
| Context | Standalone single, part of her second studio album | Winner's single from The X Factor |
| Chart Success | Reached top 20 in the UK and US, top 10 in some European countries | Massive success, debuted at number one in the UK and Ireland |
| Certification | Gold (US) | Multi-Platinum (UK, Ireland) |
Impact and Achievements
James Arthur's cover of "Impossible" was an overwhelming commercial success. It became the fastest-selling X Factor winner's single ever, selling over 490,000 copies in its first week.
- Chart Domination: It debuted at number one on the UK Singles Chart and the Irish Singles Chart.
- Best-Selling X Factor Single: It holds the record as the best-selling winner's single in the show's history, selling well over 1.3 million copies in the UK alone.
- Global Recognition: The song achieved significant chart success across Europe, Asia, and Australia, earning multiple platinum certifications.
- Critical Acclaim: James Arthur's rendition was praised for its raw emotion and vocal prowess, solidifying his position as a prominent artist.
The widespread popularity of James Arthur's cover led to many believing it was the original, a testament to how effectively he made the song his own.
