Simon Cowell's 'The X Factor Is Killing Music,' Says Charlotte Church

Is Simon Cowell killing music? Welsh singer Charlotte Church says exactly that.

Cowell, the producer and judge on the British phenomenon talent show 'The X Factor' -- which he's bringing to the United States after nine years of starring as a judge on 'American Idol' -- is cheapening an art and promoting talentless singers, Church contests.

"The X Factor is killing music. That show doesn't have an interest in true craftsmanship or skill - it's all about your ass, and hopefully you can keep half a tune," Church told the British edition of Esquire Magazine (via the Express).

"I'd make a better judge than the others on that show because I know more about the technical side of singing than even Simon Cowell," Church continued. "But he wouldn't be able to control me, so he'd never have me on."

Church rose to prominence as a classical singer in Britain, turning to a pop career in 2005. She has sold more than 11 million records.

Even more famous names in Britain have also lashed out at the show -- Cowell's friend, Elton John, dismissed The X Factor as less than music.

"I'm not a fan of talent shows. I probably wouldn't have lasted if I'd gone on one. It's become boring . . . brain crippling. I like Simon Cowell but what he does is TV entertainment," he told a British radio show (via The Telegraph). "There have been some good acts but the only way to sustain a career is to pay your dues in small clubs."

Previously, he said he'd rather be mutilated by an alsatian than watch the show.

For more, click over to the Express.