Girls Aloud member and X Factor judge Cheryl Cole performed for the first time as a solo artist on the very show where she got to put other people’s musical skills under the microscope. Despite being notably nervous and contrary to what some believed about her first time up on stage singing live, Cole managed to put on quite a show last night, with her rendering of her current hit, “Fight for This Love,” as the Mirror can also confirm.

Cole was said to be “dreading” the performance, as she was to get up on the same stage that Whitney Houston would also take for her first live performance in the UK in 12 years. Then, there was also pressure from the media and the fans to perform live while also doing a very energetic, Janet Jackson-style routine, as well as plenty of speculation that she wouldn’t be able to do so. Judging from the reaction of the audience and fellow judges Simon Cowell and Dannii Minogue, it’s safe to say Cole did just fine.

“That was incredible. I’d have you in my category any day. You’ve got a lot of stick this week, but it’s really hard coming from there [the judge’s seats] to up there [the stage].” Cowell told Cole at the end of the performance, which is a lot coming from the man who has quite a reputation for not giving praise where praise is not due. “But that was an incredible performance. And unfortunately you’re going to be number one next week.” he added as a joke.

Dressed in a sheer top and a military jacket and cap, with pants slashed up to her hips, Cheryl Cole could hardly hold back a smile of happiness at hearing these words. She had been nervous prior to taking to the stage, she admitted, but she ended by having a lot of fun, she said. She also used the opportunity to thank her fans and supporters, some of which included the other Girls Aloud girls, who were all in the audience for their mate.

“I feel fantastic. I’ve really enjoyed myself. It feels like a blur, it took me back to Popstars: The Rivals – I just wanted to say thank you, I’m personally overwhelmed by the support I’ve had since I joined this show, the production, crew, everyone, you’ve all made me feel so at home.” Cheryl said. Below is the video of the performance: some still insist she did not sing live, and relied instead on pre-recorded vocals, but others claim the entire song was sung live. Watch and judge for yourselves.