The grapevine had it right. The Rifffs lead singer Ray Mercieca, a legend in the local rock scene, has been confirmed as the second judge for X Factor Malta.

“II think the show will open up new horizons for up-and-coming artists and musicians and in general I think it will have a big wow factor,” Ray told TVM. “It will be great, everyone’s going to enjoy it, it’s going to be a great show. It’s a mega-honour to be chosen as a judge. I’m known to have a bit of a cheeky attitude so I think I’ll add something to the programme. I’m really looking forward to it; it’s going to be brilliant, it’s going to be fun.”

The Rifffs are one of Malta’s most famous bands and have been playing since the 1970s, with a long hiatus in between. Other than The Rifffs, Mercieca is also known as the lead vocalist of the former rock band The Characters.

The Rifffs are one of Malta’s most famous bands and have been playing since the 1970s, with a long hiatus in between. Other than The Rifffs, Mercieca is also known as the lead vocalist of the former rock band The Characters – best known for its tune ‘Down by the Water’.

Mercieca will join music producer Howard Keith Debono on the judging panel, with two more members yet to be announced.

Will Ray make a good judge?

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Tim Diacono

Tim is interested in the rapid evolution of human society and is passionate about justice, human rights and cutting-edge political debates. You can follow him on Instagram or Twitter/X at @timdiacono or reach out to him at [email protected]