‘X Factor’ Judges Britney Spears and Demi Lovato Clash in First Critiques

After a bloodbath of firings and the months-long media frenzy surrounding Simon Cowell’s replacements, new The X Factor judges Britney Spears and Demi Lovato finally get to work as auditions kicked off in Austin on Thursday. And leaked audio from their first critiques shows that they could be looking for different things.

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According to tweets from the audience, Season 2’s first audition is a 14-year-old boy who incited very different reactions from the pop stars.

“I think that you have a great voice and your tone was great,” Lovato, 19, starts off. “But, I don’t really know where you fit. I don’t know what’s going to set you apart from other musicians who are boys. So, I think you just have to find out what makes you special and what separates you from all the other teenage boys in this industry.”

It’s then Spears’ turn to sound off on the audition and she has a more optimistic take on the performer. “I think you can be bigger than the next Justin Bieber,” Spears says as loud cheers explode from the crowd.

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“I feel like your runs are amazing,” the 30-year-old continues. “And I do feel like with a little more training, you could actually [inaudible] better presentation, but I see what’s there. And you’re very gifted. Thank you.”

Well, their difference of opinion may be a sign of interesting things to come, especially since fellow judge L.A. Reid, 55, says he has also clashed with Lovato already.

“Day 1 @TheXFactorUSA and I have already been cut to shreds by @ddlovato,” the music producer tweets. “Let the games begin!” 

Tell us your thoughts on Spears and Lovato’s first critique in the comments section below.

UPDATE: The audio has been removed by request of a show spokesperson.

Email: Jethro.Nededog@thr.com; Twitter: @TheRealJethro