Rather than searching for vocal talent it seemed this year the judges were more interested in finding people with a ‘look’, or that were quirky. Frankly, they got what they wanted. No wonder Simon announced he would be leaving the show soon after the season started as he must have realized what they had done and now had to work with. Maybe he was embarrassed. So this year we get the celebration of a modicum of talent.
That in itself would be bad enough but we are also ‘forced’ to endure the one or two hours of hype that accompanies the mediocrity. The bad comeback attempts by stars of the past, as well as the self serving promotion of the mindless rappers. Last night’s performance by Lady GaGa was so lacking in any talent or worth as to be embarrassing. Ryan said her performance was ‘socially edgy,’ when it was really a poorly redone Madonna routine from 1988. Not to mention the blatant product placement takes its toll on my psyche, as for some reason I want to buy a Ford even though I don’t care for Fords.
But you must have realized at this point that I’m still watching. That’s because I love to see people succeed. To see Lee, the shy paint salesman who started with just an interesting voice, grow and improve each week as he gains confidence and ability and end up as a front runner in the top five, makes me happy. To see him overcome his shyness, to blossom as he began to see his potential and to enjoy what he was achieving, motivates me in a fundamental way. At this point I think he set to take first place and I look forward to seeing his achievement.
Big Mike's performance of Maxwell’s “Woman’s Work,” was so good that it still has me playing the song back in my mind every few days. His chutzpah makes me smile and illustrates what can be accomplished with confidence based on real ability. Though he is not my favorite I wish him the best.
All of the contestants at this point are striving to do the best that they can in spite of the challenges thrown at them. It’s about overcoming; it’s about fighting against your own self doubt and walking away victorious. When I see Crystal Bowersox, I know she is overcoming a life that has not been kind to her in having success. Her performance during jazz week impressed me.
And that my friends is the great challenge in life; succeeding against all the odds. Look around you, notice those who are reaching out for success and commend them. It can be a coworker, employee, person who does your lawn, teller, anyone you come in contact with. As you support others in their quest for a higher standard you will find that it will motivate you to a higher standard and will add to your happiness.