Classy vs pop

I watched American Idol today, and I realised something.

The so-called artists of today, hold nothing against the living legends of yesteryear. When you put them on stage side by side, there’s a certain indescribable grace and elegance that makes the current generation look downright tacky. Don’t get me wrong; the newer singers like Fantasia, Carrie Underwoord, Norah Jones, and Jaclyn Victor are all greats in their own ways, but what brings my attention to them (your own opinion may vary) are their voices. Fantasia is a powerhouse, Carrie is a darling, Norah lulls you to sleep and Jaclyn is just wow. HOWEVER!

Against the likes of Gladys Knight, Pat Benatar, Aretha Franklin, and Tina Turner? They’re like little children trying to copy their elders. They’re cute, adorable and talented, but it will take them a long time to get where their elders are… if they do reach there in the first place. I love these artists, but I think I might get sick of Fantasia’s I believe and Jaclyn’s Gemilang long before I get sick of I heard it through the Grapevine and Midnight Train to Georgia.

Showmanship skills, there’s a vast gap between the two. When Aretha and Gladys are on stage, they simply exude class. Their poise, movements, singing style, all exclaim louder and yet more subtly than words could ever describe, Elegance. Next to them, the newer singers don’t have that. They do not have the natural grace that these ladies have.

I could go on and on about it, but I’ve subjected dear love to enough about American Idol (which I barely watched in the first place) and you. However, I would like to point out among those who received the Golden Idol award, that kid with the big voice? He should train under the Three Tenors. God knows his voice is an operatic one. You could hear him through the whole Kodak Theatre when he started singing “Silent Night,” and his pronounciation was simply superb. He’s a rough gem, and with the proper training, who knows where he might go?

Off now for Defense of the Ancients. WTF mode is fun!