SERC opening duo simply “Fran-tastic”

While it’s nothing compared to performing for millions on a hit reality TV show, Francesca Duncan said she was honored to perform for classmates, alumni, faculty and staff at the SERC Opening Ceremonies.

The X-Factor star performed three songs with senior Brian Crawford as duets and one separately.

Crawford played guitar for the sophomore, who finished 12th overall as part of the group InTENsity on the first season in 2011.

 “It was a privilege,” said Crawford, who also co-MC’d the event. “I was so excited to get to go on stage. The crowd was so great. I didn’t expect such a passionate turnout on such a rainy day.”

Crawford said Brent Swanson, who was the Homecoming co-chair with Jessica Moses, talked to both students to see if they wanted to participate in the ceremonies.

“He asked me if I wanted to do a duet with Francesca,” Crawford said. “I said, ‘Yea, definitely. She’s from the X-Factor.”

Each performer sang the other’s praises after the show. Crawford dubbed his star singing partner “Fran-tastic.”

Duncan performed the song “Beautiful,” originally done by Christina Aguilera, as a solo act. She said it was her favorite to perform.

“When I sang ‘Beautiful,’ it meant a lot to me,” Duncan said. “I used to be made fun of back in middle school. I know people who went through that who don’t think they’re good enough.”

The two performed together for “The Only Exception” by Paramore, “Good Time” by Owl City and Carly Rae Jepsen and “We Are Never Getting Back Together” by  Taylor Swift.

Though Crawford told the crowd he’s a huge Taylor Swift fan, he said it wasn’t the song that meant the most to him.

“For me it was ‘The Only Exception,’” he said. “I’m kind of like a die-hard romantic. So the thought of every relationship not working out, but still having that one that does means a lot.”