Ne-Yo joins Nicole at The X Factor 2012 Judges House for the boys category in Dubia

Singer Ne-Yo joins Nicole Scherzinger at this year’s X Factor judges’ houses to help her select the three boys who will go on to the live shows.

Having been handed the boys category by Simon Cowell on her return to The X Factor UK, Nicole seem very pleased to have them and flew the six lads to the hot sunny climate of Dubia.

However for the boys, this is not a holiday but another phase in their job interview to become an international pop star. One bad performance at judge’s houses could see their hopes and dreams shattered, and it would be a long way home back to their day jobs.

Up first to perform for Ne-Yo and Nicole is James Arthur, singing I Can’t Make You Love Me by Bonnie Raitt.

Ne-Yo says: “It seemed like he was singing for his life.”

Next in line is Nathan, performing Ne-Yo’s very own Monster, but the US star wasn’t so keen: “It felt like ‘look how cool I am’, it almost takes away from the fact that he’s actually a pretty good singer.”

Adam followed with SOS by Abba, to praise from Nicole: “For me that was the best audition I’ve seen from him. Wow this is tough.”

Next it was Jake’s turn to enter the spot light singing Back for Good by Take That, but the pair weren’t sure on the song choice.

Ne-Yo says: “The song selection wasn’t the best for him and if your falsetto is not your strength why would you pick a song that has a very clear and obvious falsetto in the hook line! With that being said I like the tone of his voice, it’s soft, it’s inviting.”

Nicole agrees: “He has a really nice tone I just don’t know if he’s ready.”

Rylan is up next performing We Found Love by Rihanna.

Ne-Yo quips: “Not too many people could pull off that outfit. I mean he’s not the strongest singer…”

Nicole disagrees: “What he does have is personality, he’s got this little sparkle about him.”

Finally, Jahmene sings Titanium by David Guetta.

Ne-Yo tells him: “Your nervous energy is going to make you or break you, don’t let it break you, you’re here because you’re talented, believe that when you sing.”