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



 
In a message dated 5/23/2006 2:13:28 PM Eastern Standard Time,  
bwelch10@xxxxxxxxxxxxx writes:

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





Hi Bobbie and all the other AI Fans ;)-
 
Have you actually listened to Taylor's album?  It's creative and not  
directly imitative of anyone, IMHO. Not that great, I'll admit,  but  I'm sure he has 
much better things in store for us as he grows and  develops.  And he 
certainly does have the right influences, doesn't  he?
 
But the real point is that his popularity and exposure will bring a renewed  
interest on the part of many in blues and soul music.  We all had to get  
introduced somewhere, and hopefully Taylor will be the enrty point for many new  
fans.  Isn't that what we are all hoping- no begging- for?
 
Midnight Steve




This archive was generated by a fusion of Pipermail 0.09 (Mailman edition) and MHonArc 2.6.8.