Tim Cifers Shines During ‘X Factor’ Performance of Rascal Flatts’ ‘I Won’t Let Go’

The initial 'X Factor' audition rounds didn't give country music fans much hope that another contestant like Scotty McCreery would emerge from the competition, but Thursday night's boot camp round featured at least two artists who were proud to be country. Tim Cifers and Kingston impressed judges during their group performance of Rascal Flatts' 'I Won't Let Go.'

Cifers, who is from Willow Springs, N.C. -- just down the road from McCreery's hometown of Garner -- began the song before each contestant entered the stage one at a time. "He's a contender that guy," judge Simon Cowell said after the group wrapped up.

Contestant Mathew Slovacek didn't take to the country song as naturally, but Kingston -- formerly known as the Carter Twins -- shined. Also impressive was 34-year-old Thomas Wells, a chicken plant worker from Oklahoma.

"I thought the guy with the hat was a star," Cowell gushed about Cifers. Unlike previous rounds, it's not immediately made clear who will make it to the next round and who will be sent home. After all groups performed, they were collectively brought to the stage in three groups with two of the three getting good news. Cifers and Kingston were seen smiling, and Cifers moved on to the 'X Factor' Top 32.

Watch Tim Cifers + His Group Sing Rascal Flatts' 'I Won't Let Go' on 'X Factor'