May 30, 2008
Pride Idol has taught me a lot of things in its two short years.
That people are very, very brave. (Those taking the stage every week.)
That other people are very rude. (Those in the crowd who insist on yakking over the singers.)
That Ernie Manouse and Alan Lett are smart, interesting friends.
That Toddicus is a funny guy.
But mostly, it's shown me that there's lots of talent in Houston that isn't being properly showcased. I'd love to see any of this year's -- and most of last year's -- singers taking a real chance and singing at local clubs, putting together a CD and really getting out there.
Maybe Pride Idol will give this year's final quartet that boost. What'd I'd really love is for them to take this experience and turn it into something great, something beyond karaoke nights at a gay bar. (Not that there's anything wrong with that.)
I encourage any of the contestants to regularly use some of the great tools provided by the Houston Chronicle. We've made it really easy for local musicians to get their ames out there and their music heard.
HandStamp -- a lively blog updated regularly by myself and Sara Cress, chronicling all the goings-on in the local music scene. Find gigs, learn about new bands, join in the discussion.
Houston Bands database -- If you're a singer or in a band, let us know here. Include all your info and music in our ever-growing database. All genres, from bluegrass and emo to exotica and noise. Seriously.
And now, on to this year's quirky quartet, the four remaining Pride Idol finalists. It's a diverse lot, and each has their strengths -- and weaknesses.
What I think is most important for all of them is to not think of this as simply a singing contest. A Pride Idol -- if you allow me to cheese out for a moment -- should be someone that represents the struggles, the successes of a community, via music. I want to see a piece of myself reflected back in that person.
What we're all looking for is someone who connects -- with a song, with the crowd, with themselves. A few flat notes, some off-key moments. No big. But be yourself. Don't show us who you think you should be. Show us who you are.
Lance: I wasn't immediately taken with Lance, just because so much of what he does is hidden behind posturing and staginess. He never seems completely relaxed, and his performances have a pageant feel to them. Because of that, it creates a wall between him and the audience. He gets too caught up in doing what he thinks is right or what he thinks will cause an impact.
Lance, we'd love to love you! Show us who you really are.
I'd love to see more sincerity in his performances and less of a measured constriction in Lance's vocals. He has talent. I just don't think he's using it correctly. There are some moments when his vocals are really strong, but it's hidden behind too much fuss.
And stop listening to Josh Groban. Please. He's the antithesis of what we're looking for. Or at least what I'm looking for.
Modernize a bit. Loosen up. Just shake everything off before you get onstage and -- be. Just be.
Maybe something like this:
Zea: Another rough starter for me. I fully expected Zea to be gone but quickly. But she listened and stepped it up during the second week. I'm not sure who the Zea was we saw the first week, murdering Whitney Houston, but she's long gone.
Zea's strengths are her presence -- elegant and charismatic -- and the unique tone of her voice. It makes her stand out, but it's also a hard sound to marry to the right song. She was spot-on with Jewel during week 2. This week's Madonna ballad was just OK. Not really the right match, and it sometimes felt unnatural.
But I like Zea, more and more each week. She's clearly trying and listening. And -- forgive my Paula moment -- she looks great.
I think if Zea finds the right song, it could be terrific. There's lots of color in her voice. She just needs to figure out the best way to use it. For some reason, I can totally hear her singing Natalie Cole. And though we suggested a more uptempo song for next time, this performance in particular popped into my head:
Shelia: It's impossible to not be taken by Shelia's spirit. She's alternately shy and confident, feminine and masculine, joyous and intense. And what's great is that she brings all of that to her performances. They, more than anyone else's, brim with emotion.
Shelia's challenge, then, is to find the perfect song to channel all of those feelings. She's come close, particularly during this week's Alicia Keys tune. I felt the love emanating from her partner, who was watching proudly from the crowd.
My suggestion: Forget the search for melody and stick with what you love. Great music isn't about a catchy hook. It's about feeling and energy. Bring us the gospel if you want to. Or maybe Fantasia Barrino or Mary J. Blige.
I think Shelia is waiting to explode. She just needs a bit of direction. I've got tons of ideas for her.
Maybe something like this:
Or this. (One of my favorites.)
Or this.
Or this.
David: I've seen David perform for a long time, and I know he can do this. That's why I'm glad he's started hitting his stride.
That said, I think there are some kinks he can smooth out. He tends to overshoot sometimes when he sings -- a little too loud at times when he could be softer. David has a big voice, but it doesn't always have to go so BIG.
There's also some showiness in his performance that could be toned down, but it's obvious he's working on it. He seems confident and comfortable on the stage. And his performance this week of Walking in Memphis was the most engaging of the night. I noticed some of the crowd stop and pay attention -- always a good sign.
If and when he hits the final two, David should work on adding some nuance to his vocals. Pull back at times and just let his voice work with the song instead of hitting it over the head. It will make for a much more dynamic performance.
I'd love to hear David tackle a song like Luther Vandross' Dance With My Father, a gorgeous tune that requires a big voice -- without the usual power. It would be a challenge, but one that could pay off big.
Or how about:
Just my observations. What about you? Who's your favorite? What do you think the final four can each do to win?
I am so proud to be Shelia's partner. I believe all of the songs suggested for all the singers are a good choice. I think we'll hear something that will really stand out the next night we hear them sing.
I am 47 years old, with 12 grandchildren. They arose out of 5 beautiful adult children ages 28, 26, 24, 23, and 19. they are my life and very much apart of my life and my recovery. I am actively in the 12- Step Program of A.A, N.A, and C.A
I came out of a 23 year addiction due to being an incest survivor and survivng two abusive alcoholic marriages. GOD has brought me a long long way, and for that, I am truly grateful. My clean date is August 6th, 2002.
I am well known in recovery for singing Shirley Caesar in talent shows throughout Houston, Iam a very, very spiritual person. And since singing in this competition have not been able to find any instrumental Shirley Caesar, but I do plan on really exhibiting my GOD given talent SOON......
I have'nt seen much of anything since my recovery process outside of working and being responsible, and have never been out of Texas, which is one of my goals someday.
This was just to share a little bit more about me and to let everyone know that I appreciate the opportunity to just be apart of something so wonderful and special.
Sincerely, Shelia Green
( A.K.A. ) Shelia " G "
