Louis Walsh has defended the X Factor’s use of auto-tune and insisted that most pop stars use the voice changing technology. Walsh compared using the controversial effects, to using ‘cosmetics’ and said that it doesn’t drastically alter performances.

In an interview with The Sun, the Irish manager added that he wished he had auto-tuned twin brother John and Edward Grimes on last year’s series of the ITV show.

He said:

“Every pop star in the world uses auto-tuning, everybody.

“Absolutely everybody uses it. I wish I’d done it last year with Jedward.

“It might have helped – I might have won the show. There is nothing wrong with it.”

“It’s the same as wearing good make-up or having a good make-up artist. Every successful artist in the world uses it.”

On the huge furore that erupted after the ITV show used auto-tuning on Gamu Nhengu and G&S last week, Louis added:

“I think they’re making too big a deal of it. Other channels are jealous of The X Factor – everyone is – it’s the biggest show.”