JLS told today's Observer that they were gutted when Simon Cowell refused to sign them twice after taking part on The X Factor, Cowell's show that made them.

Even though the boyband may not have won the competition, they were clearly popular and have since forged a highly successful career in the music industry.

Marvin Humes said that initially Cowell only wanted to sign the winner as it was a "credit-crunch thing".

The second time he refused them was after the final night. Oritsé said: "They announced the result, all this confetti came down from the ceiling and we just thought, we've got to fight for this!"

JB continues the story and explains that they eventually got the call from Cowell's label, Syco: "They just called our management and said Syco didn't want to go for it." 

However, as history shows, everything turned out for the best. Marvin says:  "If we'd signed with Syco I don't think we'd be the group we are today."

Aston adds: "When you hear of people fighting with their record labels and stuff… That would have been us. We wouldn't have wanted to sit on stools, sing ballads and wear suits, and I think that might have happened."

JLS's relationship with the music mogul is better than ever, Humes says: "I think he's very proud of us. We represent his brand: we're his success story."

JLS's next single, 'Take a Chance on Me', is released on November 6 and will be followed by their new album, 'Jukebox' on November 14.

Watch the official 'Take a Chance on Me' video, and the band be interviewed on OK! TV below: