25-12-2009, 16:53
kvincent5555 Wrote:Tough call.
Although soaring Broadway voices aren't really my thing, I think she's plenty good.
I think the gimmicky, freak-show angle is kind of a sad commentary on the music biz: "Old matronly woman who sings like an angel." Anybody who's seen their local church choir knows there are some who do, and some who don't. And anybody who's heard Britney, J Lo, or heard Marilyn sing "Happy Birthday" to JFK knows that sexiness doesn't guarantee outstanding vocal quality. So why so much shock and awe?
I also don't like what seems to be the media's implication that so-called ugly ducklings need to "prove" their worth by breaking out their secret talent and sticking it to the world. A obscure life spent taking care of her mother, the sick people in her parish, and singing in the local choir is no less applaudable than the life of your average pop diva, and can be rewarding in its own way.
Although I'm glad she'll have money to take care of herself and her loved ones, it's hard to be sure whether this is necessarily a good thing or not. While it's nice for some to think that this will inspire people, make them reconsider their preconceptions and so on, I'm a bit cynical, and tend to see it as more reality-show style entertainment.
Interesting discussion, though. I hope some of you will jump in on this one.
Wow! I Totally Agree!