Sam Smith Rides Mediocrity To World Superstardom According To Rock Critic -- Page 2

The LBT Arts Critic Questions The Talent Of Brit Crooner Who Has Taken The World By Storm But Might Be Lacking Musical Chops

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Another hit tune – “I’m Not The One” – follows the same format.  The hook is slightly more palatable, but it repeats over and over again.  The lyrics also are whiney pleadings for a love interest to not dump his ass set to beats and hand claps that have as much rhythmic character as a metronome.

Also, what great vocalist sings a spare ballad and requires a black choir to come in and provide some dimension and power (and sonic cover)?  Without the choir in “Stay With Me,” even novice listeners would wonder what the hubbub is about.

Compare Smith with a truly talented performer signing a different gooey, high-pitched ballad with a jilted lover theme – Michael Jackson’s performance of “She’s Out Of My Life.”  Listen to the changes in Jackson’s tempo.  Listen to his vocal range.  Jackson hits about 50-times more notes and does not need a choir to fill out his voice.  Also, observe the songwriting.  Jackson did not write this particular song, but he knew at the time how to choose a song to record.  (He did write many of his biggest early hits.)  The protagonist in “She’s Out Of” does not just beg a lover that does not want him to hang around anymore.  He mourns the loss of a lover, recognizes his mistakes and learns life lessons: “Now I’ve learned that love’s not possession; Now I’ve learned that love won’t wait...”  It's not rocket science, but it sure beats incessant groveling.

This brings up again a generational split.  For many younger people, it is enough that Smith sings with over the top emotion.  For them, feelings and trying are as important as genuine achievement.  Smith can act hurt in his limited vocal register, but he can’t sing with any talent worthy of international attention.  If he sang at the local cafe, I would tolerate his high-pitched whine and unexceptional original tunes – but only for five minutes or so.  I would never mistake him for a world class pop star.

I would love for Sam Smith’s fans see him to try sing anything other than the depressing and repetitive songs on his record.  They would have to acknowledge that this pasty, pudgy Millenial is just another wannabe pop star on those tawdry talent shows that somehow slipped through the cracks.  Using some studio sleight of hand, he and his handlers have fooled the plebiscite.  He is the Kenny G of soul crooning.

And the winner of the imaginary “England’s Got Talented Gay Pop Singers” is still...  Morrissey.  Runners-up: Boy George, George Michael and Robert Smith.