aguywhoplaysthief on 17/11/2007 at 04:16
I see that the phenomenon of the audience screaming and whistling during and after proper performances instead of clapping at the end has now infected the U.K. as well. I don't know how anyone can judge this man's singing - I couldn't hear anything through the audience.
I remember watching the British version of Whose Line is it Anyway? and enjoying it, and then they came out with the American version, and the audience would scream and whistle like it was a burlesque show. I'm pretty sure it's because we've become so narcissistic that subconsciously people think that they should be a part of the show somehow, but I fucking can't stand it.
Thief13x on 17/11/2007 at 06:04
enthusiasm?
Oneiroscope on 17/11/2007 at 06:41
I thought it was very cool. I thought I did hear a pinched note or two here and there, but I put that down to stage fright. I think as he gets more experience that will disappear. If what fingernail says is true, I can't say I blame the guy. I mean if you were a phone salesman and got a chance to make a record with free publicity and actual real money on the table, probably more than you would make in five or ten years, it would be pretty damn hard to pass up.
However his career actually turns out, at least he got his shot, his 5 minutes, some recognition, and won't have to wonder what might have been if he's only had the testicular fortitude to do something about it. Hats off to the man for that.
Vivian on 17/11/2007 at 11:49
Jesus, are you guys joking? Paul Potts looks like he eats children.
Fingernail on 17/11/2007 at 12:01
This is a human interest story rather than anything profoundly amazing when it comes to the music itself. Not that he's not pretty good; it's just that he doesn't really bear comparison to most well known classical tenors, who will have spent years developing not only great tone, but a technique that will last, a larger range and range of repertoire, some proficiency in acting, and the power to lift their voices above an orchestra unamplified.
I suppose all I'm saying is that there's no reason we shouldn't be acclaiming, say, Ian Bostridge as "the most amazing voice" - in fact, he's probably a lot better and certaintly more versatile, but oh no wait, it's not as good because he's a CBE and holds doctorates from Oxford and Cambridge, and he's already a pro. (
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bk-TXzUlJhs&feature=related)
Dia on 17/11/2007 at 13:06
Quote Posted by Fingernail
This is a human interest story rather than anything profoundly amazing when it comes to the music itself. Not that he's not pretty good; it's just that he doesn't really bear comparison to most well known classical tenors, who will have spent years developing not only great tone, but a technique that will last, a larger range and range of repertoire, some proficiency in acting, and the power to lift their voices above an orchestra unamplified.
You're right; it
is a human interest story. I wasn't expecting (clearly, nobody else watching or on the show was) the quality of Potts' voice. Sure, he needs training and a lot of practice, as one of the judges said, he's a diamond in the rough. I don't mean to compare him to some of the great tenors, I'm just saying the man truly has potential. After listening to his semi-final & grand final performances I couldn't help but go & listen to Pavarotti's, Carrera's, and Bocelli's (individual) performances of Nessun Dorma (as well as the performance of the same by the Three Tenors). Clearly Potts is not in their league; maybe he never will be. But he definitely has the potential. It's not about comparisons here; it's about the discovery of an ordinary man with an extraordinary voice.
I'd like to see where he goes with this. I suppose it'll all come down to whether he's serious about a career in opera or if he'll choose to go the fast route and just cash in on what he's got for now. I truly hope he elects to train for a career in opera.
Obviously, Potts didn't have the means to attend schools like Oxford & Cambridge; he sells cell phones ffs; he's just a 'regular guy'. That's what makes his story so damn charming. I do favor the underdogs. Guess it's a weakness of mine.
Oh, and Viv honey; stop it. Janis looked like a hooker from hell imo, but her voice could make me weep.
Vivian on 17/11/2007 at 14:25
But those blank, blank eyes when he sings. Its like watching a shark. I also can't stand that kind of overwrought belly-singing, it's like El Divo all over again... if he releases a christmas album I'll cry.
DaBeast on 17/11/2007 at 15:06
Quote Posted by aguywhoplaysthief
I remember watching the British version of
Whose Line is it Anyway? and enjoying it, and then they came out with the American version, and the audience would scream and whistle like it was a burlesque show. I'm pretty sure it's because we've become so narcissistic that subconsciously people think that they should be a part of the show somehow, but I fucking can't stand it.
I always figured the American one was shit because Drew Carry wasn't funny. Ryan Stiles and Colin Mockery carried the show (and occasionally Greg Proops) Also it was hosted on the Disney network or some shit, bloody confusing the way you Americans work things. I get what you're saying though, I think it has more to do with the producers getting people to cheer and la 'applause sign' or whatever.
TBH I don't think theres been a single UK comedy show that was converted with American actors etc and worked. The Fawlty Towers one was fucking painful to watch.
RE:Topic, I'd heard that he was professionally trained which kind of takes away the magic of the achievement.
Dia on 17/11/2007 at 16:28
Quote Posted by Vivian
But those blank, blank eyes when he sings. Its like watching a shark.
I disagree; I thought his eyes were filled with emotion.
Quote Posted by Vivian
if he releases a christmas album I'll cry.
(
http://www.paulpottsuk.com/intro/)
Here's a tissue, dear.
Vivian on 17/11/2007 at 20:10
Fuck. Another nail in musics coffin.