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When Normalcy Dies
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The Pop Culture Pill
April 18, 2008 - 7:49amHow many seasons does it take for a show to die? Well, that kind of depends on your definition of dying. To me, a show dies once it loses its hook. In showbiz, that’s what makes a show different from the hundreds of other programs on at any given time. Clearly, American Idol executive producer, Simon Fuller, never got the memo.
The show is in the middle of its seventh season, and I really thought Fuller was smarter than Idol’s longevity suggests. In my humble opinion, production should have ended after season 4, when Carrie Underwood managed to narrowly escape the clutches of celebrity pigeonholing.
American Idol started with a boom. A summer series at first, the show launched Kelly Clarkson into the pretty substantial career she currently has. One season later, the show revamped itself a little (changing the Top Ten to the Top Twelve, a move that has stuck with Idol since then), and Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard captured the hearts of millions. But there was Fuller’s first folly. As sad as it is, America only has room for one idol at a time, no matter how skinny Aiken is. Ruben took home the title, but his fame was diluted by Clay Aiken’s pathetic attempts at bringing a Broadway voice to airwaves with stalker anthems like “Invisible.”
Not to toot my own horn, but I predicted season 3 even before it happened. The illiterate, Macy Gray wannabe that was Fantasia Barrino was the clear winner from the beginning, and not because she was the best. She wasn’t. True fans will remember that this was the season Idol starred Jennifer Hudson, who went on to win an Oscar for her role in Dreamgirls, so suck on that, A.I. Nevertheless, Barrino stole the show and continued in the footsteps of her two predecessors by wailing (and screeching) on the inspirational ballad that defines American Idol season finales.
But onto season 4 – the proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back. Carrie Underwood, the ultimate winner, was the last idol to have the everyday charm we look for in reality television. Though I must admit I’m not a huge fan of Underwood’s work, she had what it took to be the season’s winner because she was just like any of us – fabulously normal. I’m a huge supporter of the notion to end on a high note, and this is where Fox should’ve called it quits.
Then came Taylor Hicks. Let’s face it; the guy looks like he has serious psychological issues. This is the point where American Idol decided to change its image once again, this time relying on the “he/she doesn’t look like a winner” philosophy. If it smells like a loser, looks like a loser and sounds like a loser, it’s probably a loser. Taylor Hicks sucks, and there’s really no denying it. The guy has a distinct voice, but so do all of our family members when they drunkenly croon at family functions – that doesn’t mean they should be offered record deals with Clive Davis.
The subsequent two seasons, including the one currently on the air, have been full of letdowns and train wrecks. The show has become a venue for a “diverse” set of people to strut their stuff on stage. But reality television is the sensation it is because we like to watch people like ourselves ultimately make it to the Big Time--not freaks who desperately try to break the pop star mold.
Is it a coincidence that the relationship between the talent on American Idol and Paula Abdul’s prescription drug dosage is inversely proportional? I think not. Similarly, it is no surprise that since Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson are back in the limelight as household names, they have gotten lazier. The caliber of the contestants has slacked, and it’s not because America is looking for something new.
I used to be hooked on reality television. But today, I think I must admit that it is a dying phenomenon. I find that the only shows I like that are still on are Flavor of Love and Kid Nation (Season 2, anyone?). But I only like these shows because they are so incredibly ridiculous that it’s inconceivable that they would resemble my own life. Shows on the cusp, though, in which the contestants try to be average but with a little something extra, are sinking, and it would be in Hollywood’s best interest to just let them drown.
your bashing of Taylor Hicks
So, fill me in...how can you tell someone has psychological issues just by looking at them? Cause Taylor looks damn fine to me, both from a psychological standpoint and an aesthetic one. Oh, and he sounds pretty damn good too. You're just still pissed that Chris, the Nickleback wannabe, didn't win.
horrible comments about Taylor Hicks
I could not believe that you would say such horrible and nasty thing about anyone, Taylor Hicks or else. Did you go to med school so that you could diagnois him? Have you had experience with people who are mentally ill? Even if these things were true, which they are NOT, to publish such disgusting remarks is a just a sign of your patheticness.
I'm not sure why some people say things like that about Taylor.I guess your types don't understand why anyone would want to be his own man, not just another one of the mediocre singers who yell and scream just to be "with it". Go to one of Taylor's concerts. He is quite a showman, great voice, songs (darn good ones) that he has written himself. Taylor Hicks is a very talented gentleman and we are the lucky ones who benefit from this.
(Ms) Dale Coe Schultz
Taylor Hicks
I agree with you regarding reality television. Once a novelty, now becoming a bore. I still watch A.I. though, perhaps out of habit. Regarding Taylor Hicks, I'm not comprehending why you decided to go the direction of his having mental issues, that's a bit of a random statement.
You may find, in actuality, many in his fan base are the ones with the mental deficits. The moniker, "Soul Patrol", in some cases, might be more suited to "Insane Posse".
your lack of knowledge on
your lack of knowledge on Taylor Hicks is so obvious, I had to comment.
the looks comment itself speaks volumes all by itself....The only true
way to experience this fine southern gentleman's demeanor is to actually
go to any one of his live concerts...the excitement and emotion this
dude emotes to his fans hasn't been matched for a long time...
He is a "one of a kind" entertainer.
Get over yourself.
I have to disagree with what
I have to disagree with what you said about Taylor Hicks. I have met him a few times and there is nothing wrong with the way he looks, he's quite handsome and I assure you he's a regular guy. I don't understand our culture and it's obsession with looks and sameness. Judging someone due to the color of thier hair, eyes, skin etc..is just plain ignorant and I thought our society was moving beyond that..well I had hoped anyway.
As far as his music Taylor is very talented and inspired. He has a very unique and pleasant sounding voice, and is diverse enough to perform many different styles of music, everything from Ray Charles and Otis Rettig to Pink Floyd and the best yet his originals that he wrote himself (yes he actually wrote them). The fact that he signed on with Clive Davis was probably a mistake like you said since the man refused to give him and promotion at all did his best to discredit Taylor with his negative remarks about him in the media. What is Clive Davis doing today anyway? I heard he was released from position of BMG chairman and exectuive, this is proof there is a God!
Anyway thanks for your article and your insights even if I don't agree with them. Peace
Taylor Hicks
I think your comments about Taylor Hicks are ridiculous. In fact, I think your whole take on American Idol is silly, so why do you bother to watch, or comment on any one in it. Taylor Hicks won because the American public enjoyed his singing and ability to entertain. Get over it.....America picked him, and a couple of people who continuously try to slam him won't change that. AMERICA picked him, by a huge volume, simple....move on.
Taylor Hicks
I found your remarks about Taylor quite insulting to Taylor and his many fans. American Idol's premise is to choose the best overall person whom we (the voters) deem worthy of the AI Title. The vast majority of the fans of Season 5 chose Talor.
People Magazine named Taylor it's Hottest Bachelor - proving he is quite handsome and HOT! I've seen Taylor perform live three times since his win on Idol and anytime I can see another show, I will be first in line to get tickets. He's awesome. Too bad American Idol chooses to pimp only the ones they think will make the most money for them.
Taylor's CD is great and with some air play would have sold in the millions. Take a listen; you just might enjoy it!
Well I have to agree with
Well I have to agree with you about Hicks.
I've met him and found him to be a cold strange individual.
American Idol jumped the shark with him.
Sad shortcut ...
Ok, University student up against a deadline has to spit out some pop culture commentary in an hour, so she goes for the original "Idol is burned out" topic. Old news Linda.
The only reason that show is still a lyon in the ratings is because the other networks yielded a few years ago, and don't even try to compete. And out of habit, they slap up reruns that didn't do that well on the first run. Boxing viewers into a corner. Even the Democratic Presidential debate drew higher ratings in many markets... Not due to the sudden national passion for politics (despite the drama and fireworks of the current campaign), its cause people are dying for an alternative to this dreck.
The equally lame (except for Adam Carolla) Dancing with Stars routinely beats or ties in ratings when pitted against the supposed Idol juggernaut. Idols ratings sink every year, and almost any original programming would knock it into perspective faster than you can say Grey's Anatomy
Having said that, it is weak and lazy to use Taylor Hicks as a mascot for Idol blowing. He was a talented and entertaining contestant and continues to kick ass in concert. I have no doubt Hicks and Elliot Yamin are a big reason Idol ratings peaked in 2005 and I am sure both of their best work is ahead of them.
Where and when will this end?
I've been thinking a lot lately about how our society seems to be sinking into the deep, dark ooze. I remember the days when comedians were creative and funny. Most comedians are not funny anymore. They are vicious and attacking. No one is off limits. It's funny. Not really.
I remember the days when TV shows could be wholesome and still make you laugh until your sides ached. Today's shows are filled with vulgar sexual references and unending descriptions of bodily functions. Too funny. Not really.
I remember the days when families used to get together and share vacation pictures and home movies. Now, our children are ganging up on each other and filming the violence so they can become stars on youtube or myspace. It's cool. Not really. Are there no more talented,insightful writers? I remember the day when people who wrote articles for others to read actually put thought into their words. Entertainers were critiqued. Now they are ripped to shreds for someones amusement. And if one simpleton writer bashes an artist or public figure, countless others will pile on and join the attack, repeating the same tired, inaccurate phrases ad nauseum. It makes for good reading and thoughtful discussion. Not really.
Ms. Hartzband seems to have found a happy niche among todays slash and burn writers. In the entire article, I cannot find two coherent thoughts to rub together. But isn't it funny when she calls Fantasia Barrino the illiterate, Macy Gray wannabe! Actually, it isn't funny at all. It's cruel. Fantasia publically acknowledged her difficulties with reading. Then she improved herself by learning to read. I don't think I've ever heard her speak unkindly of anyone. And I personally find her to be incredibly talented.
I'd like to know what it is about Taylor Hicks that makes you question his mental health. Thinking back to the season he was on American Idol, he was one of the most normal looking contestants in the bunch. No eyeliner, no huge tattoos, no earrings..... Just a big heart full of music and a desire to share it with whomever would listen. Lots of people found his music and his enthusiasm contagious. Mr. Taylor Hicks was well loved by lots and lots of people. Those people voted him the title of American Idol. He's a happy man, able to perform his music for whomever will listen. I don't see any mental health issues there. It seems perfectly normal.
So, Ms. Hartzband, I feel as if you owe both of these young artists an apology. All they wanted to do was share their joy of music with the world. They are not forcing themselves on anyone. If you don't like their music, you needn't listen. But I see no sense in attacking them for something that really should not concern you.
Wow you are really
Wow you are really misinformed.
You are right Kelly and Carrie have fab careers, but you lost it there. Chris D has sold 4 Million Albums and is touring with Bon Jovi. He is all over the radio. Clay Aiken has sold over 6 Million Albums, has Headlined 8 Solo Tours, and is currently starring on Broadway in Spamalot to rave reviews. Not to mention that he has a new album coming out in 3 weeks. Fantasia recieved rave reviews for The Color Purple on Broadway and I believe she won a Critic's Award for it. She has also toured with some big names and her songs are played on R&B and Hip Hop Stations. She is currently working on her third album. Jordin Sparks has had 2 #1 songs off her debut album and is going to be touring with Alicia Keys. Kelly Pickler just won 2 CMT Awards, her album has sold very well and she also Tours. Jennifer Huson won an Academy Award for goodness sake and is in the new Sex And The City movie, not to mention that she will release her debut album this year. There are others that have varying levels of success. You do not have to be a Superstar to be successful.
Kelly, Carrie, Clay, and Chris are all Multi-millionaires and live in mansions. Pretty successful if you ask me.
Just Your Opinion
Sometimes I read items such as what was written by Ms. Samantha Hartzband and feel a slow burn at the way one human being can talk about another human being. The chances that the writer knows the subject, Mr. Taylor Hicks, are slim at best.
I have to remind myself that when something like this is written - it is the opinion of the writer. The days are long gone when an announcer would come on before any opinion was issued and say that "the views of the writer do no reflect the view of the station".
The problem with society is that there are people who honestly feel you are giving an educated review of an artist and these people who have no mind of their own will parrot what you write. Maybe that gives you a reason for being and doing what you do - but it is wrong. I feel that you should make a note somewhere that this is just your opinion and not write it as a review.
I think it's important to
I think it's important to note that Hartzband's piece is opinion based. And that's allowed in print, you know. This entry is not a review of Taylor Hicks, it's simply her analysis of the show's run.
While I personally like Hicks, it doesn't make any sense for me to try to prove why Samantha is wrong - it's her opinion.
Save your review comments for the Test Spins, people.
Regarding Taylor Hicks, King of Soul
Well, I guess two sayings come to mind.
1) Opinions are like arese holes. Everyone's got them, and chances are they stink.
2) If you can't say something nice, it's best not to say anything at all.
You certainly don't have to like someone or their style, but bear in mind, it makes you look rather insecure about yourself to talk about the way someone looks or the way they express themselves through their form of art (Taylor's form of art being music). Again, you really don't have to like the music, but you don't make a strong point attacking the musician (or anyone else) personally. Have a great weekned!