Chris Rene Impresses with 'Superstar' Performance

Millions of Americans have been watching the contestant pool dwindle on FOX's "The X-Factor" since late September, but Wednesday night marked the first time since the show's debut that viewers have been given the chance to voice their opinion.

Until now, it was up to the judges to choose who stays and who goes. Now it's only the American vote that matters.

With that in mind, , whose story of addiction recovery has captivated a mass audience over the last six weeks, took the stage with his rendition of the Carpenters' "Superstar."

Last week, originally performed by Rose Royce and later covered by Madonna, received high praise, although Simon Cowell as well as Rene, did admit that his vocals were clearly not the best of the 12 remaining acts. 

"Last week my performance wasn't what I wanted it to be at all," Rene said. "I feel like I have a lot to prove."

This week, it's clear Rene has found his niche: smooth R&B that easily segues into syrupy hip-hop. 

For the first time performing without a hat, seemingly more clear-eyed and visibly healthier at six months sober than he was when he first appeared on the show with 70 days of sobriety, Rene crooned the first verse until the hip-hop beat struck in the chorus.

Engulfed in flames (literally), Rene rapped the second verse that, like last week, saw his comfort level rise without question. Chalk that up to his freedom and originality in the second half of the performance. As L.A. Reid said before the showing, "Chris Rene's challenge is that he's just better on his own songs." Given the chance to make at least part of the classic song his own, the results were palpable.

"I have so much mad love for you my friend," Judge Nicole Scherzinger said after his song. "You sound absolutely amazing. You've grown so much already in this competition vocally."

Along with the rest of the judging panel, Cowell agreed.

"I thought it was a big improvement on what you did last week," he said. "I like you and I love your honesty."

Tune into Thursday's broadcast to see if Rene makes the cut to show's the top 11.

Did you watch "The X-Factor" on Wednesday night? What did you think of Chris Rene's performance? Were you a fan? Tell us in the comments!