There’s something I need to get out there - I can’t stand American Idol.
I’ve never watched a full episode. I couldn’t last that long without gagging like I had a live beetle lodged in my throat. And it’s not even just because the music is so abject. It’s because of the philosophy.
Which is: “Attention, America - there’s no need to think and discover new things for yourself. We’ll tell you what to like. Just pick from these pre-packaged, soulless choices. Come on in. The water’s fine in the conformity pool!”
Really, the United States has stepped back in time socially, even since the 80s. The music scene used to be fragmented, and you could actually find people who were genuinely passionate, engaged and knowledgeable about various types of music. I just don’t see that happening anymore. It’s like were being sucked backed to the homogeneity of the 1950s. Yes, there are still some pockets of individuality, a subversive idea or two.
But overall, this nation is gleefully swilling overprocessed pap with a vacant smile on its collective face. This is why Daughtry can pack an arena, but Europe’s best-selling bands are lucky to draw 500 here. Daughtry? The guy is a singing strip mall, and he even looks like every other faux-sensitive/introspective faux rocker.
Speaking of Daughtry, allow me to introduce my list of 20 Singers Who Are Better Than Either of Those Weenie American Idol Weenies*. They are, in no particular order:
Ralf Scheepers - Multiple bands
Justin Hawkins - The Darkness
Marco Hietala - Tarot, Nightwish
Andi Deris - Helloween
Joacim Cans - Hammerfall
Oni Logan - Lynch Mob
Tobias Sammet - Edguy
Joakim Broden - Sabaton
Klaus Meine - The Scorpions
Bruce Dickinson - Iron Maiden
Rob Halford - Judas Priest
Ronnie James Dio - Dio, Rainbow, Heaven & Hell
Messiah - former Candlemass
Geoff Tate - Queensryche
Matt Barlow - Iced Earth
Russell Allen - Symphony X
Ray Alder - Fate’s Warning
Blaze Bayley - Former Iron Maiden
Zachary Stevens - Savatage
Eduardo Falaschi - Angra
*These are all male vocalists since the finalists were male. Of course, most of the female metal vocalists would still make either of those guys cry.
