Carlito Olivero – Rocks the Crowd with Cover of Rihanna's “Stay” | The X Factor USA 2013

Some auditions on The X Factor USA don’t just showcase a good voice—they reveal a star in the making. That’s exactly what happened when Carlito Olivero took the stage in 2013 and delivered an unforgettable cover of Rihanna’s hit ballad “Stay.” His performance had everything: passion, raw emotion, and a stage presence that instantly set him apart from the competition.

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🌟 Who Is Carlito Olivero?

Before The X Factor, Carlito was no stranger to the entertainment world. Born and raised in Chicago with Puerto Rican and Mexican heritage, he had been chasing the dream of stardom since a young age. He even had a taste of the spotlight when he joined a Latin boy band under MTV’s Making Menudo project. But despite those early opportunities, Carlito hadn’t yet found his big breakthrough moment.

Walking onto The X Factor USA stage, Carlito carried not just his talent, but also his hunger for success and determination to represent his culture and community on a massive platform.

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🎤 The Performance of “Stay”

When Carlito began singing Rihanna’s “Stay,” the audience was captivated within seconds. His voice carried a mix of vulnerability and strength, weaving emotion into every line of the song. Unlike many who simply cover a hit, Carlito truly made it his own—adding delicate falsettos, heartfelt phrasing, and subtle runs that showcased his artistry.

The crowd responded immediately, cheering louder with each note. By the time he hit the chorus, it was clear that Carlito wasn’t just singing—he was telling his story through the lyrics.

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👏 Judges’ Reactions

The judges were equally impressed:

• Simon Cowell acknowledged Carlito’s ability to take a huge song and give it an authentic spin.

• Kelly Rowland praised his passion, saying she could feel every word he sang.

• Paulina Rubio lit up with pride, highlighting Carlito as an artist who represented Latin talent with grace and power.

• Demi Lovato appreciated his modern, soulful approach, pointing out his potential to stand out in the industry.

Their feedback confirmed what the audience already knew: Carlito Olivero was a serious contender.

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🌍 The Impact of His Audition

Carlito’s audition became one of the most talked-about performances of the season. His ability to connect emotionally with both the live crowd and viewers at home made him a fan favorite. He quickly built a loyal following, especially among international fans who admired how he proudly carried his heritage onto one of the biggest stages in the world.

More than just an audition, it was a statement of identity and resilience. Carlito showed that talent paired with authenticity can move hearts and inspire dreams.

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✨ A Star in the Making

Carlito’s X Factor journey didn’t end with just this audition—he went on to deliver powerful performances throughout the competition. But his rendition of “Stay” remains one of the defining moments of his career, the performance that introduced him to millions and proved that he was destined for something bigger.

Even years later, fans revisit this audition as a reminder of how one song, sung with honesty and passion, can change the course of someone’s life forever.

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⭐ Carlito Olivero’s cover of Rihanna’s “Stay” wasn’t just an audition—it was a declaration that he was here to stay.