Hucknall calls Cowell 'Slimy'

Mick Hucknall has slammed Simon Cowell and X Factor for holding back the recording industry.

Speaking to The Mirror, the Simply Red singer said he was angry at the amount of money Cowell was earning from the show.

"X Factor's done an incredible amount of damage. It's benefited one or two individuals - like Slimy Cowell - who've made a fortune, but I wonder how much the actual artistes will make or if anyone will know who they are in 10 years?"

Hucknall admitted the show made for good television but would prefer seeing something involving songwriters.

"It's great family entertainment for people who don't give a toss about the recording industry but for us as artistes it's very damaging," he said

"I would love to see shows where people actually write the songs rather than sing other people's. We need to nurture the next generation of songwriters."

Hucknall recently revealed that he 'contemplated suicide' after being falsely accused of rape in 2000.