On X Factor, Joseph Whelan brings a touching performance of the Led Zeppelin hit “Whole Lotta Love.”

Joseph Whelan took the X Factor Global stage by storm with his powerful performance of Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love.” The 26-year-old tool salesman, with his tattooed look and rock star vibe, quickly became a fan favorite, especially among the female audience members. Despite the intense cheers, Whelan delivered a flawless blend of grit and melody, capturing the essence of Robert Plant’s challenging vocals. His audition has since become one of the most popular videos on the platform, viewed over 50 million times.

Whelan, hailing from Wolverhampton, attended the audition with his four-year-old son, Kian, whom he described as his world. He expressed his desire to pursue a music career while also providing the best life for his son, adding a touching sentiment to his rock-solid performance. During the X Factor UK audition, Whelan also showcased his acoustic guitar skills with a heartfelt rendition of Bon Jovi’s “Always,” revealing another layer to his musical talent.

After his riveting performance of “Whole Lotta Love,” Judge Tulisa quietly expressed her amazement, followed by praise from Louis Walsh and Gary Barlow, who admired Whelan’s authentic rock voice and dynamic stage presence. Whelan’s audition earned him four yes votes from the judges, securing his place as a standout talent on the show.