[Harp-L] Re: Taylor Hicks (response to Bobbie) -cont'd



Bobbie, we all have our individual takes and that is to be respected. 
  Well done,
  Betty 

Bobbie Giordano <bogio@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
  At 06:11 PM 5/22/2006, BETTY WELCH wrote:
>I suggest you don't watch it.......it appears you would be bored. :)
> Sorry you don't appreciate his vocal talent.

You'd be surprised, I guess, what it takes to bore me. Even stuff I've 
'endured' isn't entirely tedious, because I always learn something from 
it. As for AI, I actually *intend* to "watch it", IF I remember to do 
so. [Morbid fascination? Maybe, but I expect to derive something of 
useful interest from it.]

But, to be clear, did I ever specifically express disdain for Taylor's 
vocal talent? [Or any others', for that matter?] I think not. His is 
evocative of many blues, jazz and ballad singers that have been my major 
musical interest over the years; just perhaps a little too imitative of 
some of them, and that is what I find disappointing.

Still, most all musicians develop their styles based on icons or heroes 
of their own choosing. Nothing wrong with that, and, some do it so well 
that they evolve into their own persona that captivates millions, in 
spite of obvious influences evident in their styles. I'm sure that is 
what drives some artists, [as well as those who compete on programs like 
American Idol,] to even advance musically at all. More power to them.

It's just not "art" to me, to consciously develop and then project one's 
musical character in such a way as to so heavily 'evince' the well-known 
style of other performers the artist has admired. It may be how an 
artist learns, but certainly not, how one 'creates', IMO, which is when 
artists spontaneously emerge in their own right.

And, to make a side note, I have heard and enjoyed Berl's harmonica work 
many times, [as well as Jerl's,] and immediately visited the website you 
posted the other day. They may not be justly recognized, but both are 
very accomplished harmonicists, more than I ever expect to be. But, my 
playing and singing have been kindly 'endured' by both from time to time 
at harp festivals, and I proudly consider them my friends. Furthermore, 
I would never advise others to not listen to either of them on account of 
possible boredom, as I might be encouraging those persons to deprive 
themselves of a memorable and enriching musical experience.

But, as to voting on American Idol... No one should ever ask or expect me 
to cast my vote in any such election, which is a complete farce. Please 
excuse my conventionality, but I come from a position of 
one-[wo]man-one-vote, and the AI setup is ludicrous; and therefore, also 
meaningless... despite the fame and glory it may generate for the 
so-called winner. It is also sad that American Idol has morphed into the 
promotion of semi-professionals more than that of true amateurs, as they 
emphasized in the program's initial offering. Professional experience 
among so many of this year's contestants warped the chances of those who 
had none. And witness... they are all gone! Not a hope in Hades!

As for Taylor, I wish him well, if only in part for the sake of all harp 
players. However, in consideration of my prior comments, I actually 
think it may do more harm than good for the harmonica community... to see 
a contestant prosper who tramples the contest rules by 'showing off' his 
harmonica-playing skills; as if 'Harp' needs more of that! I also truly 
think he has the capacity to become a star vocalist; but, I do find it 
'hard' to watch him sing, hoping he will one day develop a better manner 
of expression that doesn't make me feel so 'queasy' viewing him perform.

Well, that's about it, I guess... and out this goes into cyberspace for 
all eternity. I hope again I don't live to regret it.

Such is life.
Bobbie






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