X Factor singer joins bands at youth concert

Wai Beat, a youth rock concert at Wairarapa College on Friday night, gave fans plenty to cheer about.

The night included a guest appearance by Masterton X Factor star Esther Crispin.

Crispin, 20, who now lives in Wellington, made it through the boot-camp stage of the show. She performed in the school hall alongside college bands Koia, Front Back & Sides, Cast A Shadow and Back To The Remedy as part of Wai Beat.

She said she had been looking forward to performing at the college.

"I was the first one to play in it [the hall] after it was built.

"I'm looking forward to seeing my old music teacher who taught me everything I know and coming back to where my roots are."

She was to sing her X Factor audition song and two others.

Although she did not make it any further in the competition she was just "stoked" to get that far.

"I loved it.

"Just being around heaps of talented people all in the same room jamming together was just amazing," she said.

Cast A Shadow, a Wairarapa College band, opened the night.

A particular hit were well-known Wellington reggae band Newtown Rocksteady with a special appearance.

Up With People music promoter Mark Rogers said it was a great night.

"Newtown were astounding ... finished up with a good old-fashioned stage invasion ... everyone up and dancing," Mr Rogers said.