Vocal Points: America's Got Talented Singers

posted in: Features • Pop

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know about the show American Idol. Since the show’s start in 2002, it’s unbelievable success has created a series of stars”Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Kris Allen and most recently Scotty McCreery. But Idol‘s popularity is now on a whole new level, as evidenced by a crop of similar shows. The X-Factor, The Voice and The Sing-Off are just a few shows which focus on vocalists and their journey to become stars. But which of these programs, if any, actually completely focus on the singer and the importance of a voice above all else?

American Idol, despite its longevity and success, has never been focused on just the voice. While these artists obviously are judged on their singing, the competition is more of a popularity contest, rather than an in-depth examination in vocal technique. And while ex Idol judge Simon Cowell‘s The X-Factor has a different approach, the show is really about contestants with the whole package deal. Premiering earlier this fall, this show boasts a $5 million prize to the one person who can wow the judges with their X factor”the “thing” that  makes someone a star.

Maybe that’s why the producers of The Voice stepped in with a whole new approach to the typical singing competition. Instead of a show with judges, this program employs four celebrity coaches (Cee-lo Green, Christina Aguilera, Blake Shelton and Adam Levine) with their own successful singing careers and training who help contestants reach their full singing potential. Even better, the contestants for the show are picked blindly. The coaches sit with their backs turned away from the singer, and have to use only their ears to determine whether or not the singer is talented enough. Fans really latched onto the concept of pure vocal talent and are anxiously awaiting for season 2, which premieres in February.

Yet another singing show with a very different spin, The Sing-Off is making waves in its third season. The competition is comprised of sixteen a cappella singing groups from all over the country vying for the grand prize and a recording contract. The program really focuses on each of the individual vocal components that make up the whole song, making for a truly unique and intriguing show. And like The Voice, the judges (Sara Bareilles, Ben Folds and Shawn Stockman of Boys II Men) are all experienced singers who can really speak to these singers about how to be the best they can be.

Its clear that America loves being a part of finding the next big star, and all of these shows allow for fan participation. But it is truly a special experience to see singers who may not fit the typical star mold get a chance to be judged on their incredible vocal talent.

What’s your take on these singing shows? Share your opinion here!

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