The X Factor USA Season 2, featuring contestants Paige Thomas and CeCe Frey performing the OneRepublic song “Secrets”. The format of this competition stage often pits two contestants against each other to perform the same song, with only one guaranteed to advance.
The performance, which was filmed on the second day of Boot Camp, showed a clear contrast in the two singers’ energy and approach. The competition was intense, with the judges, including Demi Lovato and L.A. Reid, watching closely. Before the performance, the contestants looked visibly “exhausted,” and one of them commented, “I’ve never seen anyone look so tired in my life”.
During the performance of “Secrets,” a critical difference emerged: Paige Thomas “messed up,” while CeCe Frey did not. CeCe, known for her confident and sometimes confrontational persona, appeared to “outshine” Paige during the duet, according to reports. This moment highlighted the pressure of the Boot Camp format, where one mistake can cost a contestant their spot.
Following the performance, the judges discussed their preferences, with one judge stating they liked Paige, while another noted that CeCe felt it “has to be me” to advance because her rival made a mistake. This moment solidified CeCe’s reputation as a competitive “warrior,” focused on winning.
Ultimately, the judges had to choose who would progress to the next stage, the “Judge’s Homes”. While the clip itself focuses on the tension and performance, both contestants were successful in getting past Boot Camp. They were later placed in the Young Adults category and mentored by Demi Lovato.
Both CeCe Frey and Paige Thomas made it far into the live shows; however, Paige Thomas was later eliminated in a double elimination, and CeCe Frey finished in 6th place for the season. The “Secrets” sing-off remains an iconic moment for highlighting the drama and sudden turns of the competition.
This video is the full duet of Paige Thomas and CeCe Frey performing the song “Secrets” in the Boot Camp stage of The X Factor USA. Boot Camp 2 Paige Thomas vs CeCe Frey (Secrets) – THE X FACTOR USA.
