A new, eight-minute promo for the forthcoming series premiere of the American version of 'X Factor' introduces viewers to two contestants and also demonstrates why the show is so different from 'American Idol,' despite having former 'Idol' judges Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell on the judge's panel.

In the preview, Abdul admits she is anxious for the season to get started and is looking forward "to sitting next to my partner in crime" in reference to Cowell. Fellow judge Nicole Scherzinger admits that she "lived" this life, auditioning and trying out to make her way in the entertainment industry. L.A. Reid, who quit his gig at IDJ in order to be a judge on 'X Factor,' says that he is primed and ready to find that next new generation of stars.

Cowell mentions that the beauty of this show is that you can have contestants who are 12 or 112, who sing solo or as part of a group. Therein lies the difference between 'X' and 'Idol!'

We witness a few quick clips of Cowell lashing at contestants with his acid tongue, taking no crap from hopefuls who bristle at his comments. Keep your eyes peeled for the prominent Pepsi product placement, too.

We also meet two contestants that we are likely to encounter quite a bit this season. There's young teen Rachel Crow, 13, who is living with six members of her family and admits (in her adorable precocious way) that she has no money. She shows off a soulful voice, which is wise beyond her years, when she belts out Duffy's 'Mercy.' Then there's Stacy, a single mom of two is 42. She was told by an ex that she was too old to pursue her dreams. Her version of '(You Make Me Feel Like a) Natural Woman' disproved that point.

'X Factor' is certainly about closing the generation gap! The season premieres on Wednesday, Sept. 21.

Watch the New 'X Factor' Promo

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