Express & Star

The Great Big Thank You Awards: X Factor's Joe Whelan serenades unsung heroes

Best known for his time on the X Factor, musician Joe Whelan has become the latest celebrity to endorse the Express & Star's Great Big Thank You Awards.

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Joe, who comes from The Scotlands area of the city, shot to fame in 2012 when he wowed the judges on the hit ITV show with his rendition of Led Zeppelin's Whole Lotta Love. He later appeared on the 2013 show where he lost out just before the live shows after performing at mentor Sharon Osbourne's home.

Since his appearance on the programme, Joe has had a successful music career which has seen him tour across the UK and sign with the record company responsible for Judas Priest and The Who.

Most recently, Joe has returned to Wolverhampton to play a much-anticipated gig at The Slade Rooms on July 23 with his new band The Contrast. The gig also signified the launch of his and the band's latest EP, 'Open Your Eyes'.

Speaking about the importance of being recognised for his musical talents, Joe said: "I have had a lot of success since I've been on the X Factor and it's great to have been part of something that recognises talent.

"That's why I'm involved in the Great Big Thank You. It's great to see the Express & Star recognising talent and local people in the area that have done good things.

"There is a lot of talent out there and to not recognise it, well it's a crime really.

"So get nominating people who deserve a Great Big Thank You."

Joe joins Sir Lenny Henry CBE in endorsing the awards with further celebrity supporters in the pipeline.

Speaking on the awards on Monday, Sir Lenny said: "There are a lot of unsung heroes out there in our communities and it's great the the Express & Star are working to recognise these heroes.

"This is whether they be superb teachers, community leaders, much-loved neighbours, young stars or just people who go about their daily lives looking to make our communities better places to be."These awards recognise the diversity of people who live in our communities that work to support others and they really deserve this special recognition."

For more information visit our dedicated site and honour your unsung heroes.

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