Cowell admits that the ‘X Factor’ job was one of ‘a lot of projects’ he discussed recently with the MC. By James Dinh Simon Cowell Photo: Dave Hogan/ Getty Images From Taylor Momsen to Enrique Iglesias, the list of rumored judges slated to join Simon Cowell on his upcoming Stateside version of “X Factor” keeps growing. Among the latest speculated additions to the TV singing competition’s coveted panel, which already includes music executive L.A. Reid, is Nicki Minaj . Speaking with XXLMag.com , Cowell addressed whispers that he met with hip-hop’s Harajuku Barbie about the reality show. While confirming that he did talk with Minaj, Cowell insisted that the duo spoke about a range of career ventures. “We spoke to Nicki actually about a lot of projects,” the British music mogul admitted. “It wasn’t specifically about this, but we were just very interested to meet her. I’m a big fan of hers. So I don’t know if it’s gonna be this show or something in the future, but it was definitely somebody I wanted to meet.” As for why the former “American Idol” judge was so persistent on a meeting with the Young Money MC, Cowell pointed to Minaj’s meteoric rise to success. “Off her own back she’s had a phenomenal year last year and she’s gonna have a phenomenal year this year,” he explained. “She’s very smart, very influential, very bright and along with artists like Jessie J. You can’t ignore them and sooner or later they have to be in our world and we have to be in their world.” Whether or not Minaj will make an appearance on “X Factor,” the talent aficionado said he is currently in talks with another hip-hop heavyweight about joining the forthcoming show, which debuts in September. Audition dates for the program begin on Sunday and continue on until late May. Cowell recently spoke to MTV News about what he’s looking for in an “X Factor” contestant. “I love unusual people. I always say, you’ve got to embrace the madness,” Cowell said with a laugh. “I like that we’re going to be very open-minded. I think we’re going to have good enough people on this panel that we’re not gonna miss out on anyone who’s got potential.” Do you think Nicki Minaj would make a good “X Factor” judge? Share your opinions in the comments! Related Artists Nicki Minaj

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Simon Cowell Addresses Nicki Minaj ‘X Factor’ Judging Rumors