Singing Competition Shows Alternative Music Representation
Popular singing competition shows such as The Voice, The Four: Battle for Stardom, The X Factor and American Idol all share a common fact; there’s an engaged music fan audience tuning in weekly. From engaging through social media, tuning in to the live show, voting for favourite artists to rise above the ranks and even buying the music performed on these tv shows through the streaming platforms; this music audience is tapped into singing competition shows at an all-time level. This level of engagement is probably one of the reasons why singing shows like The Voice U.S. are still on the air and winning Emmys. Even American Idol that had a straight 15 season run, went off the air in 2016, only to be revived two years later in 2018. That quick turnaround shows that this music show structure is still popular among tv watchers.
As an alternative music fan and an avid viewer of The Voice U.S. for so many years, fans like myself have craved more of a presence for alternative music to be performed on the show. Yes, throughout the earlier seasons, The Voice would feature covers of alt-rock songs during the Audition and Battle stages mostly. But by the time it got to the Live shows, it became noticeable that less alternative music was represented. The Voice does focus more on pop, country, soul and r&b performances. Unfortunately, in more recent years alternative music hasn’t been represented throughout the entire show season.
The issue is widespread and it doesn’t seem to be getting better
There is also the issue of award shows and their lack of recognition for the genre and even misplaced recognition. Case in point, rap group Migos being awarded Fav Pop/Rock Group at the 2018 American Music Awards. But, that’s a topic for another article that will be released soon.
Back to singing competitions like The Voice, there definitely seems to be a limited showcasing of alternative/rock/metal music during the show. To prove this point, in its 15-season run The Voice U.S. winners have all represented the genres of country music, soul and pop music. None of the winners or top three finalists has been a part of the alternative music category. Check out the Fuzion Pursuit Podcast episode 4 on this topic. (This will be uploaded soon)
This isn’t hating towards other genres of music, but more of a request to showcase alternative music on the same level as other genres throughout a show’s season. I get pop music is the name of the game. But let’s not put rock music out to dry. Rock music sells. The fan base for alt-rock music bands and artists is forever committed and are strong in their support. Showing up at tours worldwide, buying merchandise and music, there is still an industry and an audience for this genre. Don’t count us out.
Alternative Music Cover Highlights Throughout The Years on Singing Competition Shows
Competition music is exciting content to watch let’s be honest. You get to experience singers battling each other in a musical showdown. There is also that experience of seeing an unknown artist’s interpretation of a song. And getting a feel of what type of artist they may be if they became more established.
AMERICAN IDOL
As I analyze my CD collection and lament on my Daughtry self-titled CD that I waited in line to purchase, I’m reminded that this very successful rock band, started out with Chris Daughtry competing on American Idol. The history of Daughtry started at season 5 of American Idol during its 2006 run where Chris Daughtry gave a great performance of Hemorrhage “In My Hands.” Of the rock music covers on Idol, this was top notch for me. He had eventually made it to top four but as you would have guessed, he was eliminated.
Another Idol contestant that consistently performed Alternative music during their season, was finalist Jena Irene Asciutto. She competed during American Idol 13th season back in 2014 covering alt-rock songs such as: “Bring Me to Life” by Evanescence, “Decode” by Paramore, “Barracuda” by HEART, “Creep” by Radiohead, “My Body” by Young the Giant and Coldplay’s “The Scientist.
Also, to round out her season on Idol, as part of the finale, Jena joined Paramore onstage to sing “Ain’t It Fun.” Watching American Idol both Chris Daughtry and Jena Irene were contestants that I knew 8/10 times there would be an alt-rock song performed, and I was thrilled as a viewer.
The VOICE U.S.
The Voice, throughout its many seasons, have had some standout alternative music artists and covers. In season 3 Amanda Brown killed it with her cover of Aerosmith’s “Dream On.” The effervescent high energy singer Troy Ritchie covered Fitz and the Tantrum’s “Out of My League” during season 7 in 2014. One of the top Audition performances was by Taylor Phelan who covered The Neighbourhood’s “Sweater Weather.” Powerful vocalist and “rock ballerina” Kimberly Nichole during her season 8 appearance covered “Creep” by Radiohead. Young the Giant’s “Cough Syrup” was covered by Matthew Schuler who also covered Florence and the Machine’s “Cosmic Love” with his unique musical stylings on season 5 back in 2013.
I actually reviewed these Voice performers on the Fuzion Pursuit Podcast for episode 4. Check out that episode for a detailed review of these singers and what they are up to now.
The Most Memorable Alternative Rock Music Covers
Alternative music obviously has a cultural impact. And this can be clearly seen by these show’s contestants choosing to cover popular alternative music hits. There have been two core alternative/rock songs that have been covered more times than any other alt music. The top songs that have been covered include both “Creep” and “Dream On.”
“CREEP” by Radiohead
Covered by Jena Irene, American Idol season 13
Kimberly Nichole covered this song on The Voice season 8
American Idol season 16 showcased (Drag Queen) Ada Vox cover of this song
Covered by Vincent Cannady, The Four: Battle for Stardom season 1
“DREAM ON” by Aerosmith
Covered by Amanda Brown, The Voice U.S. season 3
Covered by Caleb Johnson, American Idol season 13
What’s lacking on singing talent shows
We need more rock music. Rock music is lacking. Showcase more alt-rock bands and artists. I’m sorry was that too much? No, but really, a more cohesive representation of genres across the board would be great to see. There should also be a Coach/Judge on the panels that represent alternative rock music in some way. Yes, American Idol had Steven Tyler at one point, but there is always room for more of that presence.
Watching these shows I would always be anticipating what alternative song was going to be covered. I was constantly waiting for it and being disappointed going through a whole season with not seeing more performances for this genre. Look at it this way, Billboard doesn’t just have a country music chart or pop music chart. It has a chart for all the genres represented at the same level. Not a fan of having to hear another expected cover of Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary,” Judy Garland’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” or insert any Aretha Franklin hit song here, and I love Whitney Houston, but “I Have Nothing” should be retired as a cover. To be honest, I wouldn’t mind another expected Aretha Franklin cover if I knew that there will be more alt music representation during the show.
Remember Rockstar Supernova TV show? Yeah, Good Times
There should probably just be a designated Rockstar Supernova TV show premise or show structure. Rock Star: Supernova was a singing competition show back in 2006 where contestants competed to be the lead singer for a band that was formed by Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee, former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted, and former Guns N’ Roses guitarist Gilby Clarke. This show was a dream. All contestants covered alternative rock songs, from artists like The Rolling Stones, Radiohead, The Killers, The Cranberries, Coldplay, Nirvana, The Who and many more. It had everything rock music, talented singers, high energy performances and did I mention rock music? It was a great viewing experience overall, and I wish it was still on the air.
My Biggest Hope
On a final note, singing talent shows overall seem to be a great viewing experience for audiences. The Voice U.S. has been cranking out season after season nonstop. I’m beginning to wonder if Blake Shelton and Adam Levine don’t need a vacation from their bromance. The show could employ a full-time Alt-rock music Coach as well, that’s just my input. Viewers want to root for their favourite artists and watch a great performance. All I’m saying is, let’s do that more for the alternative music community. We do have purchasing power. Why don’t these shows utilize that?
Or maybe the next option should be a show structure that just showcases live music performances around the world. Upcoming alt-rock, metal bands, and artists get to showcase their talent through this series, and the audience votes to put their favourite through to the top. Artists will then be able to cover all the alt music their heart’s desire. Or better yet contestants get to perform their own music. Well, that sounds like a plan. Who’s ready to start that show? I’m ready for my Producer credit.
