|
Post by ♫|Elisha|♫ on Aug 16, 2006 22:20:48 GMT -5
Elisha, I actually agreed with you in "Chains"....because I knew it wasn't an angry song at all. I even backed you up in my audio comments saying you conveyed the meaning of the song correctly as a cry for helplessness because of the confusion and emotion. However, people have different interpretations of the same song that can still work if you CONVEY your point correctly. As for my comments for "We Belong Together", something still didn't sound right after I listened again. I didn't like the timbre of your voice....which is why I thought lower key....but some notes came across a little flat/sharp(I confuse the two sometimes) to me....and it may not be a note related thing....it could be that it your emotion wasn't as strong in certain words you sang. I have to say this though , ALL songs have a meaning or an emotion behind it.....groove song, uptempo, ballad. Gloria Estefan, she has a lot of clubby uptempo songs, and the lyrics talk about danger, love, and other things. Its all in your personal interpretation and how you convey that to people like you would to another person you are just talking to, like your mother. What I think Dean was saying about originality is that.....you understand the artist interpretaion and meaning of the song and conveyed that, but you didn't make that connection well enough to relate it to YOUR own personal experience. Thats why I think he made that comments...and I kinda agree with it. But listen, don't stress over it. Just take it to heart like you normally do and keep doing what you do best. Hey Charly.. actually I agree with you on the Mariah song at the end. Not that it's out of tune or anything, but that it doesn't sound quite right. I actually wasn't completely happy with that either, and so I do see what you are trying to say about that. Perhaps a different key would have helped, but maybe I needed to focus my sound a little more differently.. open it up more. I think I pinched it a bit and closed it up and that's why the timbre isn't quite right. Thanks!
|
|
|
Post by deaniebee on Aug 17, 2006 8:28:12 GMT -5
Ok... i talked with Dean about my timing..... and he took time to really collaborate on it and though I see what he means ....not saying I am not out of time.... but just commenting on yalls comments lol... Ok I think what yall call out of time is actually just away of me singing it differently than KT does... (just having my take on it I guess) not saying it is a good thing or nothing else other than I will work on it more... but i still dont agree with my timing issues on life by the drop... heck I dont know..... I feel like one of the people that cant hear their mistakes.... and I dont want to be that way.... anyway Thanks again for your critique!! Jake and Elisha My hats are off to both of you excellent jobs!!!! Erica - not to sound like a broken record or a big jerkface, but on "Black Horse & a Cherry Tree" there's not really any denying that you were off timing. Citing "originality" or "making it your own" doesn't change the fact that the song relies HEAVILY on rhythm and your vocals were completely off the beat and the general flow of the song was interrupted. Making a song your own can be achieved by changing some notes or ad libbing and whatnot, but not by changing the rhythm of a song, unless you're prepared to play music that also presents this new rhythmic interpretation, it's just going to sound congested. I understand that it may seem daunting for you but please don't take offense to commentary from the judges. We're sincerely just trying to help you out. As we all established your vocal performance was great but the way it was offset on the beat was distracting and it made you sound bad when the vocal was exceptionally good. It could have been the best performance of the night if the timing were correct. As for you other song, I was the only one who criticized timing on that one I believe, and I even said it was almost perfect but you just seem to get ahead of the music. You've done it on almost all of your recordings (with the exceptions of last week.) I hope the discussion we had helped some.
|
|
|
Post by deaniebee on Aug 17, 2006 8:56:55 GMT -5
To my fellow contestants.. Great job you guys! First of all.. to say that I'm not original or that I don't show emotion is really not true.. All of the inflections and colors that I add are just a bit of that. It's not like i'm just dully singing the songs all vanilla with no style. Somtimes I feel like you guys expect more out of me and are harder on me than anyone and it is a little upsetting sometimes because I feel like I get picked on for things that aren't apparent. Emotion is my key to singing.. I NEVER sing a song without putting my all into it, and would never put something out there that is "dead" and lacking in that basic thing. I think because I am also a technical singer, a lot of people tend to focus on that, but of all the things I've ever been told about my singing.. almost always, my emotional connection and ability to make people feel things are usually at the top of the list.. And to say i'm unoriginal feels like it's just a way to dig at me when you want to try and find something negative to say.. Nothing I do is copycat.. I always put my own spin on things.. melodically, stylistically. That is what being original is.. being creative and having your own artistic style and spin on things. And it's not like my voice sounds exactly like another artist.. I'm not a "XXXX" impersonator or sound-alike, and though my voice is not as unique as the MOST unique voices out there like, Macy Gray or Louis Armstrong... not every voice has to be THAT distinct.. that is a special breed of singer that doesn't comprise even half the percentage of artists. The one that you may say is a little less emotional is "We Belong Together" but that is beacause of the very nature of the song.. It's more of a "Groove" song because of the way it is rhythmically written.. not meant for extreme pouring out of emotion until you get to that high chorus of the song when it gets poured on. It just sounds like a "strerile" kind of song especially on the verses to me, even in the original because it's almost "rap-like" in a lot of its delivery. I've listened to the end of mine several times and I don't hear any outlandish flatness to my sound, so I'm not sure what you were picking up on Charly, but perhaps you didn't like the timbre of my voice in that range or something. On "Chains" I went back and really took your critiques to heart.. I listned to the original over and OVER again, and she is not angry at ALL in the song. Please go back and listen to her! Except for the high parts of the song, she is quite tender and almost more plain in some places than me. I interpret her version, and how I did mine, as not a song of anger, but a song of someone who is lost and in confusion which is a totally different set of emotions. She's not angry at him in my opinion.. she LOVES him, and that's the problem. She's a woman who has been afraid of love and commitment, yet now feels herself hopelessly bound to this man and is just lost and doesn't know how this could happen to her.. HER? the woman who would never fall in love. So that's why she's more tender and "dizzy" like on the song.. she's in LOVE but confused, and at the climax she is crying out in desperation to be able to understand this thing that has a hold one her... that's why that is the time to really "pour it on" and that's where it builds to and why it gets big there all of a sudden. I promise.. I don't just get the lyrics and learn a melody.. I LIVE with the song and take it in to learn what it's about and interpret it how it makes me FEEL.. Now PLEASE do not jump all over me, for I still respect everyone's opinions, and I know they are just that.. opinions, and everyone is certainly entitled to them, and I appreciate that greatly.. that hasn't changed! I just needed to let my feelings out and try to be understood. Too many times in my life, I let people walk all over me and just smile and say nothing, but i'm trying to make some changes in my life.. I'm trying to get "out there" as a singer/songwriter and I know I need to be able to voice my opinions and stand up for myself and show some amount of confidence or I will be eaten alive. I will never be rude or B*tchy about things because that's not my style or my personality.. but if I am confused or frustrated, I will just say what I have to say even if it never changes anyone's mind, if only for my own sanity. I wish my fellow contestants the very best of luck and think you both are wonderful people and musicians. I respect the judges opinions, even when I don't agree, and am thankful for their presence and dedication to this endeavor. Sorry for the vent.. but I feel like I always let things eat at me too much and it always ends up hurting me... Here are the links to the full versions of the songs for any interested: Full version of ChainsFull version of We Belong TogetherHey Elisha! I can see where you're coming from in thinking we maybe subconciously expect more from you than other singers, but I think it's because you're so exceptionally good that you set your own bar very high and when you maybe have a song that wasn't quite the showstopper you had the week before that we maybe come off as way more critical. I apologize for that. When I alluded to Tina's version of the song I was thinking of more of a desperate frustration than an angry one. And after listening to your full length version of the song, I think there was definitely a lot of parts you nailed. I suppose I'm eating my words a little. The emotion was really there. Perhaps I was overtired and feeling jaded at the time of judging. I don't know. Either way I apologize. As for originality - I would never say that you're unoriginal. I personally can't think of anyone who has a tone like yours. You may sometimes use stylistic elements that one could attribute to other artists but tonally I think you're definitely your own person and I think maybe people see you as unfocused in the sense that you - like me - love to genre hop. You want to do it all. I personally think that's awesome but some people seem to think it's unoriginal if you don't hone your voice into an established style/category. Anyway my point is - I definitely don't see you as "unoriginal." As for your points about "We Belong Together" - you're right on all counts I think. Even Mariah doesn't sound all that emotional til the end when she starts belting the final hook. Hearing the whole version of this performance revealed some more power moments, but it's still not one of my favorite things you've done. I just didn't feel it was a perfect match for your voice. I know you well enough to know it's not easy for you to come forward in your own defence. I don't take offense at all because you do it respectfully. I appreciate you doing so. Discussion in a mature way is never a problem
|
|
EricaRoane
New Member
Music Is Medicine!!!
Posts: 45
|
Post by EricaRoane on Aug 17, 2006 9:25:04 GMT -5
It did help I am just still a little confused on my end.... I see exactlly what you are saying..... I am working on it and you helped a bunch I just need to figure out my end of the deal. Thanks again Erica and well I have to post something in here LOL and remember "some people" means me too on my sig line LOL!!!
|
|
JakeDeeUnregistered
Guest
|
Post by JakeDeeUnregistered on Aug 17, 2006 9:55:23 GMT -5
Wow what a top 3 show, im so proud of all 3 of us, kinda sucks that one has to go before the ultimate 2 battle it out....
I think either way, there are 3 possible exciting finale scenarios and it should be loads of fun
Jake
|
|
ollie
New Member
Sim Idol 1 Top 6
Posts: 28
|
Post by ollie on Aug 17, 2006 15:15:47 GMT -5
Well some of the people expressing their feelings about how you're singing dont know what they're talking about. I dont think you add too many runs ot anything like that- you just tend to over do your breath support as in I can hear your breathing even when your half way through a note- like great example: your audition piece 'I love you baby' which seems very overally compensated. I believe that the breathing in a singers voice should only be heard between notes and I believe that this may explain what I mean a bit more. And sometimes being trained to sing can be a down fall as it was for a certain female American Idol finalists this past year. And when people say you change the song too often I disagree- I really dont think you change it around enough. I'm not saying that I am the master of knowing what a persons strengths and weaknesses are, but I just know when I hear someone how good they are and thier true potential.
Ok, enough critism now and onto your great abilities:
- Your can sing in low or high register - Your range is phenomenal - You have a natural ability to sing with aggression
Your good points do out weigh your bad, but all I'm saying is that if you was to follow along the guidelines of what people have mentioned then you'll go frm great to incredible and we are all trying to help.
Another thing I would like to say aswell- I think that like you mentioned Elisha in this actual conversation: you do expect more from her than anyone else, I'm not being funny or anything but I think that one artist in particular (not mentioning any names) you're protecting far too much, what Elisha does is alot more tougher than just sounding pretty tone wise!
|
|
|
Post by deaniebee on Aug 17, 2006 19:14:09 GMT -5
I don't think we are "protecting" anyone.
|
|
jakedeeunregistered
Guest
|
Post by jakedeeunregistered on Aug 17, 2006 19:50:10 GMT -5
Ollie, are you reffering to me, I can take criticism lol
|
|
|
Post by S.L. on Aug 17, 2006 19:56:47 GMT -5
As Dean says, we're not protecting anyone.
|
|
bd
New Member
Posts: 2
|
Post by bd on Aug 18, 2006 10:11:00 GMT -5
I just learned about your site yesterday and I have only watched the last performances but this is awesome. You have done a fabulous job. I really enjoyed watching the clip. Thanks so much for this I enjoyed watching this clip and plan on watching the whole thing from the begining. Hope to see you do more of these.
|
|
|
Post by chaellymarley on Aug 18, 2006 12:45:57 GMT -5
OMFG! That was amazing! I especially loved Erica's second song, it was amazing! (the timing was a bit off too). I really like Elisha's voice and sexy style. I also love how beautiful Jake's voice is. I really wish i had wachhed in time to vote!!!! I cant wait to audition next year, I hope i can be as good as u guyz! it was absolutely wonderpippicle! OMG! I know im exxagerating (sp?) but it was awesome! overall i thought it was fantastic and cant wait until the results show, i dont know who i want the final 2 to b!
|
|
gail
Junior Member
Music soothes the soul!
Posts: 94
|
Post by gail on Aug 18, 2006 12:50:01 GMT -5
Hey when Steven said duking it out he really meant it! lmbo....
Well, of course I have to add in my two cents haha.. Ok first... I too heard the timing thing Erica. Its not just Dean. You know I love u gf, but I have to be honest! I run into the same problem but mine isn't timing its the mixing after which throws off my timing. I was mixing the vocals and the backing the wrong way and noticed it was compressing it or something..remember? It can slow it down too depending on how you do it. Its hard to explain really cuz I'm still learning too.
But, My guess is maybe that might be your issue. I remember doing Deanie's show and we recorded that Sweet Home Alabama parady... "Stinky Farts Everywhere"haha... lmbo....ya that song rocked...I never laughed harder in my life. Ok Gail your digressing now!! Anyhow...I noticed then it was a mixing issue and we fixed it then. I think that if that is in fact the issue then maybe time will only tell how long it will be to get this mixing thing under wraps..so to speak. I think the more we record the better we will get. We also have some more experienced mixers right here within our grasp to help us. Elisha has helped me alot in the past and so many others would help too. I still feel I wasn't born to be a techie/producer I just want to sing and maybe play an instrument or two. But, I still put in the effort to do my best at this mixing thing though...lol...
Erica you are talented and have a really nice voice!! You have delivered some steller performances and the skys the limit as to what you can do. You are a singer that really knows her voice and challenges it all the time. Same with Elisha! I love how she records tons of different genres all the time and I always look foward to what she is gonna do next. I think that is what any singer can do to improve on his/her craft. I'm sure Dean, Elisha, Erica, Jakey, and most of you know what style you love to sing the best, what songs you DO sing the best, and by adding in all different genres you are really making you a more well rounded artist!! My hats off to all of you. I think personally I need to be less stubborn about what songs I sing. I used to only stick to soft rock, pop, r n b, jazz, and traditional songs, but I realized by doing Jeremy's competition that I can do Rock and so many other styles. Yet I am still on that journey to really show off my infections and style of singing! I know once I get going I can't be stopped lol...My shower hears it!!! haha!! My cathedral ceilings in my house hear it. Even my tenant downstairs hears it...haha its just a matter of time when I am gonna blossom and really show what I got!! There's a reason why your the top 3 and some of us aren't you have gotten really far! You are obviously a force not to be wreckoned with! So next time its on!!! haha!!
I have to agree completely with Elisha's comment that said"We cannot please everyone!" Its so true we cant! I admire those who just stay true to themselves! Like in my song "Amazing Grace" I used it in one of the weeks here. I took a traditional song yes but changed up the notation. Not intentionally but because I sang what was on my heart due to 9/11 and being a survivor! I was told that changing the notataion was a bad thing and I disagree!!!
I don't always agree with the judges on here but sometimes I do agree too. I guess we are all singing because we love to and want to improve and what better way to do it then out of the comfort of our homes. Thats why I love it. The whole singing out and gigging thing really takes a toll on anyone so this is the next best thing to finding a way to do what I love! But don't get me wrong singing live is really great too and I think I sound much better live. I will pick singing with a Live band over a recorded backing anyday!!! My recording and mixing need much more help , lol...anyhow sorry for the book! I'm enjoying the show and cant wait to see who wins. Best of luck once again and keep singing your little hearts out! Your not only an inspiration to me but a fabulously talented group whom I have followed from the beginning. Besides your my best form of therapy especially as of late! Much love and hugz your way!!!!! G
|
|
gail
Junior Member
Music soothes the soul!
Posts: 94
|
Post by gail on Aug 18, 2006 12:56:43 GMT -5
OMFG! That was amazing! I especially loved Erica's second song, it was amazing! (the timing was a bit off too). I really like Elisha's voice and sexy style. I also love how beautiful Jake's voice is. I really wish i had wachhed in time to vote!!!! I cant wait to audition next year, I hope i can be as good as u guyz! it was absolutely wonderpippicle! OMG! I know im exxagerating (sp?) but it was awesome! overall i thought it was fantastic and cant wait until the results show, i dont know who i want the final 2 to b! Hey Chaelly!! I was just in Jamaica a few yrs back and had a great time. I absolutely loved Dunns River Falls, horseback riding on the beach, and that Rum Punch lol!!! Its was so nice to meet such sweet people and did I say what joyful time I had wow!! I really sensed a love of life there like none I had experienced anywhere. Everything was Aiery man!! Wow..What a trip I had!! Anyhow looking forward to hearing you sing. xxxxxxxxxx PS this is my show we'd love to have u too: www.freewebs.com/webvocalistoftheyear
|
|
|
Post by chaellymarley on Aug 18, 2006 15:16:39 GMT -5
Oh the rum punch ... good times. I also loove horseback riding, I have a horse of my own. I inherited her from my mother who is as lively as ever. The horse is named Clover, he brang my mum good luck! Anyawyz ... yay!
|
|
gail
Junior Member
Music soothes the soul!
Posts: 94
|
Post by gail on Aug 18, 2006 16:27:53 GMT -5
Definitely good times thats fo sho....
Ok now I am super jealous!!! You have your own horse!! I have always wanted my own too. I almost went in on one with my friend Julie in upstate NY but I couldnt afford the cost to buy it, the boarding fees, and the food ..so I had to pass! I still go riding all the time and have for over 17 yrs. Oh and Hey I'm sure with a name like Clover he does bring you luck, lol.. Well gotta run. TTYS xxxxx g
|
|