Posted by
Roxanna M. on Sunday, January 13, 2008 11:14:22 AM
I actually watched public television last night. The first show celebrated the 50th anniversary of Johnny Mathis. Unlike many singers who have lost their voices, he's still got it. He couldn't hit all the notes, but he hit most of them.
I was privileged many years ago to see Mr. Mathis perform live. There was the orchestra, him, and The Voice.
How many people just sing these days? From what I hear, screaming is the new singing, even in the country and western genre.
Bring on the Harry Connicks and Michael Bubles.* Bring on the people who can actually sing and don't need to resort to gimmicks.
After the Mathis show, there was one showcasing Sammy Davis, Jr., in a performance from 1985. For my money, Mr. Davis had the best voice of the singers in the Rat Pack. Dean Martin was so mellow as to put me to sleep, and I thought that Frank Sinatra was always off the beat.
During the performance, Mr. Davis put on his tap shoes and danced. When was the last time you saw someone tap? Personally speaking, I haven't seen a tap dance since Gregory Hines. Is it even taught anymore.
Singing is becoming a lost art, as is tap. Is actual talent in danger, too?
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* I've been unhappy with Barry Manilow since his ridiculous refusal to appear on The View with Elizabeth Hassleback. How rude to go to someone's house and then tell them not to be there.