American Idol - Does Gender Play A Role?
Seems like every time I turn the radio on, Jordin Spark's Tattoo is playing. And the odd time I flip on the country music station? Carrie Underwood is asking Jesus to take the wheel or is belting out her tribute to the all American girl. But when was the last time you heard a Ruben Studdart ditty? And Taylor Hicks, the winner of year 5 was dropped by his record label.
With this years American Idol contests weeks from wrapping up and only one mediocre female contender left (Syesga Mercado), I almost have to wonder, does it really matter who wins this year? Because, if history repeats itself, the last that we hear of them will be the big finale.
All of the female winners have gone on to have some major success. Even Fantasia, who may not have crack the pop charts, is a force to be reckoned with on Broadway and an R&B star. Jordin is fast becoming a pop star, even doing a duet with Chris Brown on her next single. Kelly Clarkson is gaining popular and critical acclaim with each new hit and Carrie Underwood can do no wrong.
I wonder why that is? I think that maybe, just maybe, it has something do with it being more acceptable for a female to win what is basically a popularity contest disguise as a singing competition. For the girls, winning is a ticket straight to stardom. For the guys? You'd be better off finishing second, like Clay Aitkin did in the second season. He might not have a huge recording career but he's the darling of Seusical. And really, isn't his voice more suited for Broadway. And let's not forget third place winner Chris Daughtry.
With one last year's top rock albums, his band Daughtry will most likely be around for years to come. What I'd like to see is one of the guys come to this realization and with three left, beg and plead with the voting public not to vote for them. Then maybe they'd have a chance at a career. Because otherwise? Look for this year's winner of American Idol in a sales bin close to you.
Cameron Van also writes for RingtonesFactory. Find the latest ringtones now.
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/
Added: May 13, 2008
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