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Title: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wylson on July 25, 2010, 03:22:46 PM With a new BW release forthcoming, a new AJ album already out, numerous recent live videos, and reunion talk in the air... what state are the surviving BBs voices in?
Brian - I think there's near universal agreement from those who have heard the samples (or the lucky ones who have heard the full tracks) that Brian's voice sounds better than we'd ever thought we'd hear it again. Could step up for some great lead vocals. Mike - Sounds quite bad in last TV appearance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iv06mgAEoRg. But people say this was a bad day and Mike is usually better in concert? Also bass vocals sounding good on 'Don't Fight The Sea'. Slightly suspect though. Al - Undisputably the voice that sounds closest to its 60s version. Even with Brian's incredible vocal recovery, I think 'reunion' audiences would be more likely to recognise Al as Brian than Brian as Brian, if you see what I mean... Does he still have a falsetto? Could he sing, for example 'Don't Worry Baby' a la 'In Concert'? Bruce - Sounds very good in this recent vid http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNiewzyzY1E . I'd heard that his voice was shot, but to me he sounds pretty much the same as ever, just slightly huskier, slightly reduced range. David - No idea, but would he sing in a reunion anyway? Blondie (very unlikely) - Still got it (though looks a bit frightetning) - sounds more like Carl now than he used to. In my dreams he is there at the reunion, singing Carl's soulful parts, Darlin', Trader etc. Potential Support Staff Jeff Foskett - My personal opinion is that Jeff's falsetto is not quite what it was, should definitely be there, but singing the mid range stuff. Matt Jardine - Can he still get that eery Brian-like falsetto? Anyone heard him lately? If so he HAS to be at the top of the harmonies. Christian Love - Personally, I love his Carl impression, but a bit too weird. Ricky Fataar - Duno about his voice, but should be there. Carl B Wilson and Justyn Wilson - I have no idea, but have heard good things. John Stamos - okay, a step too far.... I know I know, pointless debate that's been done a thousand times before, but any views on this? Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 25, 2010, 03:32:00 PM Brian does very well under the right conditions in the studio.
On stage, he ranges from entirely presentable to pitch-challenged. He could do excellently on God Only Knows and a couple of other tunes. He would have to sing mid-range harmonies. Mike would do fine, I expect. Perhaps he could let Brian do one of his leads -- Brian does an nice job on "I Get Around" and "Custom Machine," for example. Al's falsetto seems to be gone. He's lost quite a bit of suppleness, too, although his tone and phrasing are quite well preserved. I was impressed by the Bruce clip -- better than I've heard him for awhile. I'm with you on Matt Jardine, btw. He's uncanny. But Jeff is fine on high leads, too -- he does some of the better live Wouldn't it Be Nice's these days. And don't forget Darian -- his version of "Darlin'" on the fall '09 tour had to be heard to be believed. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: A Million Units In Jan! on July 25, 2010, 03:48:29 PM I think Brian's state of mind is the most important thing. When he's really inspired and into it, he sound great. Otherwise, bleh.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on July 25, 2010, 03:49:06 PM David is not known for his BB vocals but his voice is wonderful and expressive. An unknown treasure to me until recent years.
For me, when he signs, I hear the spirit of Dennis (in a way I can't describe). Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: hypehat on July 25, 2010, 03:52:07 PM Wirestone, you weren't kidding - Darian's ON FIRE with this!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIpYRGIhMmA Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Don_Zabu on July 25, 2010, 04:03:54 PM David is not known for his BB vocals but his voice is wonderful and expressive. An unknown treasure to me until recent years. Can you point me to any videos of him singing or something?For me, when he signs, I hear the spirit of Dennis (in a way I can't describe). Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: tpesky on July 25, 2010, 04:13:38 PM The more songs Al sings, the better off they probably are sonically. He clearly still has his voice, he can't go much higher than his original parts but I would say he could handle them without much hesitation. His appearance with Billy on radio unplugged is phenomenal.
Brian sounds excellent on the new samples for the album and good on Al's album. Would that transfer to the live stage, big venue, big situation? That's a bit of a question mark for sure. GOK, Please Let Me Wonder, some Pet Sounds stuff I think would be good. If he focused on harmony parts (which let's be honest he doesn't often do in concert now we're talking) Bruce isn't going to sing many leads anyway, his voice is very thin now. He'll do Disney Girls, maybe DYWD, and clap his hands numerous times and call it a night. The biggest question to me in making a reunion sound passable or even "good" to a live audience is Mike's voice. Will it hold up in a big venue? Will he over sing the nasal on songs like BTYS and Surf Safari (very possible) ? In big appearances on TV in the past several years Mike's voice has sounded awful every time, if this is televised that's a question as well. He has sounded the best the last few times I have seen him since the early 80's on a number of songs so that's a good thing but to the casual listener I have talked to, his voice can be hard to take now and any 50th anniversary shows will get more critical coverage than an appearance at the Westbury Music Fair. Dave doesn't seem to sing many leads at BB related show, but I like his voice. If he doesn't sing Forever and Stamos does, that's an absolute travesty. Matt Jardine has the best falsetto so should get those parts. Foskett should be in the band for sure and take some higher middle harmonies, maybe a WIBN lead or DWB. I would rather see as many BB leads as possible in a potential reunion and if this means changing the keys slightly, go ahead. I know a lot of people disagree with that and I can understand. For example, Brian and Al did a good shared lead on WIBN (in a lower key I believe) at their shows in 06/07. Billy Hinsche can sing some great lower harmony parts. Darian, Christian, Scott to fill out the harmonies I guess. ( I have come to terms with the fact that Stamos will be there, but it's not appropriate for him to get any kind of spotlight as he does at an average BB show.) Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Jon Stebbins on July 25, 2010, 06:24:16 PM David singing Forever in 2008 w/BB's...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsZ5NSatN8A Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Chris Brown on July 25, 2010, 06:57:22 PM Wirestone, you weren't kidding - Darian's ON FIRE with this! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIpYRGIhMmA Holy hell, I honestly didn't know Darian had that in him...absolutely nailed it! I pretty much agree with what everyone has said...Tpesky's post especially summed up my feelings on the issue quite well. Brian and Mike are definitely variables in a live setting these days, but if they're both on their games, they could put on a great show with Al, David and Bruce, along with some supporting voices. My vote on the falsetto goes to Matt Jardene, assuming he still sounds as good as he did in the 90's, although I think Foskett would be important to have in there, as well as Darian. If everything came together just right, it could really be magical. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on July 25, 2010, 07:31:53 PM David is not known for his BB vocals but his voice is wonderful and expressive. An unknown treasure to me until recent years. Can you point me to any videos of him singing or something?For me, when he signs, I hear the spirit of Dennis (in a way I can't describe). http://www.davidleemarks.com/audio.htm Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: BJL on July 25, 2010, 09:00:01 PM Matt Jardine's falsetto is incredible.
Al sounds almost eerily Mike like on the early hits...he sounds more like a young mike love than mike love does, on say california girls. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: adamghost on July 26, 2010, 12:12:59 PM Al can still sing VERY high, but it's wispy and won't carry in a live environment, which is why you don't hear him go for those notes anymore. In the baritone range, though, he's good to go.
Darian is an AMAZING singer, and he can rock if he chooses to. I have an old tape of him singing "On Top Of The World" by Cheap Trick. He completely wails. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wylson on July 26, 2010, 12:38:54 PM As much as I like Darian, I don't think he should sing in a BB reunion - he has never played with them before, and I don't think his voice suits the blend, or would help to recreate the blend (which surely is the aim?). He should play though.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 26, 2010, 01:10:34 PM Doesn't suit the blend?
Really? Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Mr. Cohen on July 26, 2010, 01:25:53 PM Some people still haven't forgiven Darian for how he sang the "doot-doots" in the chorus of "Heroes and Villains". It was pronounced hard and sharp in the original version, and he turned into an effete whisper! We're still mad, Darian.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Myk Luhv on July 26, 2010, 02:07:45 PM Some people still haven't forgiven Darian for how he sang the "doot-doots" in the chorus of "Heroes and Villains". It was pronounced hard and sharp in the original version, and he turned into an effete whisper! We're still mad, Darian. Hahahahaha Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Emdeeh on July 26, 2010, 04:27:40 PM Carl B Wilson and Justyn Wilson - I have no idea, but have heard good things. I saw Carl B absolutely channel Denny (right down to holding his hand over one ear) singing "Forever" at one of the CWF events at Royce Hall a few years back. That was a deeply emotional performance. As for Jusytn, imho there are moments when he sounds like his dad, but there are also moments when he favors Uncle Billy. He's a good singer, not surprisingly. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Runaways on July 26, 2010, 05:30:27 PM out of the 60's group, brian is the only one who if i heard his 2010 voice in 1965 wouldn't be able to tell it was him. which is a shaame
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 26, 2010, 05:39:10 PM out of the 60's group, brian is the only one who if i heard his 2010 voice in 1965 wouldn't be able to tell it was him. which is a shaame All other stuff aside though, he also sang in the highest range. And high notes definitely fade with age. Not the fairest comparison for BW. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Runaways on July 26, 2010, 06:28:55 PM out of the 60's group, brian is the only one who if i heard his 2010 voice in 1965 wouldn't be able to tell it was him. which is a shaame All other stuff aside though, he also sang in the highest range. And high notes definitely fade with age. Not the fairest comparison for BW. well no, the higher he goes the more he'd sound like himself. That's just how falsettos go. Listen to the bruce vid you posted. the others still sound like themselves from the 60's, just older. it wasn't really a comparison that was supposed to be fair or not. It wouldn't be fair cause he wasn't in the right state of mind when he destroyed his voice Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Jim V. on July 26, 2010, 07:17:38 PM I hate to bring this up, but I'm still wondering if he actually "destroyed" his voice. I have the hunch he could sing like Holland-era or "Rollin' Up To Heaven" on 15BO and Love You. Just my opinion.
And honestly, he sounds like nearly the same guy on "Please Let Me Wonder", "God Only Knows" (yes I know Carl did the released lead), and things like the bridges to "Surfer Girl" and "In My Room". And I'm not the kindest to judge his vocals. I think the '04 "Surf's Up" left a bit to be desired, especially in the phrasing. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Chris Brown on July 26, 2010, 08:18:41 PM I hate to bring this up, but I'm still wondering if he actually "destroyed" his voice. I have the hunch he could sing like Holland-era or "Rollin' Up To Heaven" on 15BO and Love You. Just my opinion. And honestly, he sounds like nearly the same guy on "Please Let Me Wonder", "God Only Knows" (yes I know Carl did the released lead), and things like the bridges to "Surfer Girl" and "In My Room". And I'm not the kindest to judge his vocals. I think the '04 "Surf's Up" left a bit to be desired, especially in the phrasing. I don't know, I rarely hear his young voice in anything he sings these days, regardless of the range. The only times I really hear it, oddly enough, is when he does a falsetto harmony (I mentioned "Dream Angel" as an example of this on another thread). When he sings in baritone range, though, I would never guess it was the same guy if I didn't know any better. After his voice changed so dramatically in the mid-70's, his tone changed a lot. He lost most of the inherent sweetness and clarity that he used to have in the 60's, and has never sounded the same since (to me). As Runaways pointed out though, out of everyone in the group, Brian did a lot more damage to his voice (intentional or otherwise) than any other surviving member, and unfortunately a lot of what he did turned out to be permanent. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Runaways on July 26, 2010, 09:00:05 PM yeah. Brian's voice has held up really well/improved since 1977. But it's almost a completely different voice.
if his voice didn't get destroyed, he would still sound like brian wilson of 1966. just not as strong cause of his age. can you imagine that? how different would things be if his voice had made it out of the 70's. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Jim V. on July 26, 2010, 11:21:14 PM It's insane to even comprehend. I think his solo albums defnitely would have made more of a mainstream impact. And the public apparently loves that classic Brain vocal sound too. They ate "Getcha BacK' right up, which besides an unnamed soundtrack cut, is their last hit. And before that "Good Timin", which is just so BW, despite the fact he only played and didnt sing on it.
But at the same time, I dont think he would have sounded like young Brian today. I honestly think even if he kept his voice safe all that time, he probably wouldnt ended up sounding basically like this. McCartney sounds "huskier" these days too. And honestly, his 80s voice was pretty decent, and if he didn't YELL all over BW88 I think "L&M" and "Melt Away" would have made more impact. I think his mid-range was still good in the 80's but him using his loud voice on those songs, would be like him using his "H&V" voice on "Surf's Up". It just doesnt fit. However, by Imagination he started sounding like an old man, regardless of smoking or what have you.I just think it was him getting older. But his voice on BWRG does sound sweeter than it has in a while. And hes using the voice the right way unlike BW88. Sorry for the rambling, but this topic gets me going. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Eric Aniversario on July 27, 2010, 02:19:48 AM Wow, that Darian-sung version of Darlin is easily the best non-Carl live version I've ever heard. Closer to the original than even many of Carl's later performances.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: oldsurferdude on July 27, 2010, 07:52:28 AM It's insane to even comprehend. I think his solo albums defnitely would have made more of a mainstream impact. And the public apparently loves that classic Brain vocal sound too. They ate "Getcha BacK' right up, which besides an unnamed soundtrack cut, is their last hit. And before that "Good Timin", which is just so BW, despite the fact he only played and didnt sing on it. I don't know-his vocals on Imagination were some of the best I had heard in years-say, since Matchpoint.But at the same time, I dont think he would have sounded like young Brian today. I honestly think even if he kept his voice safe all that time, he probably wouldnt ended up sounding basically like this. McCartney sounds "huskier" these days too. And honestly, his 80s voice was pretty decent, and if he didn't YELL all over BW88 I think "L&M" and "Melt Away" would have made more impact. I think his mid-range was still good in the 80's but him using his loud voice on those songs, would be like him using his "H&V" voice on "Surf's Up". It just doesnt fit. However, by Imagination he started sounding like an old man, regardless of smoking or what have you.I just think it was him getting older. But his voice on BWRG does sound sweeter than it has in a while. And hes using the voice the right way unlike BW88. Sorry for the rambling, but this topic gets me going. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Alex on July 27, 2010, 11:36:42 AM I think modern Brian sounds like an older version of 80s Brian...and maybe some 15BO/Love You Brian when he yells and barks...wish he would do that more often these days. Took me a long time to get into Brian's gruff voice, but nowadays I love it.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 27, 2010, 12:37:38 PM I said this on an earlier thread about vocal quality, and I think Alex hits the point right on the head.
Quote I think modern Brian sounds like an older version of 80s Brian. This is absolutely right. Brian has had roughly three voices in his career -- smooth 60s, gruff 70s and nuts 80s to now. And those first two voices had a lot in common. Brian's phrasing, for one. You could listen to BW in the mid-70s to the beginning of the 80s and know it was the same guy. Example: On Jan. 14, 1981, Brian records Stevie. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOB4dPwTtIc (http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/2733/1981dj1.jpg) This is not a healthy Brian Wilson. He's in the depths, although not hugely fat yet. But listen to the song. You can hear remnants of the classic voice in there. A tic he would later show live -- clipping notes at the end of phrases -- pops up, but slightly. He has that classic California "cool" sound that defines his vocals with the Beach Boys. Just two years later (and now under the care of Landy), Brian goes into the studio to record three demos. Black Widow, Little Children and In the Nighttime. You can listen to the 83 version of Little Children here: http://www.myspace.com/officialbrianwilson/music/albums/brian-wilson-9544591 (http://img362.imageshack.us/img362/8812/1983gy8.jpg) He's healthier. He's recording and touring. But something is off. The voice has changed -- it no longer sounds like the Brian Wilson of the 60s or the 70s or even two years prior. This is a version of the Brian Wilson voice we came to know through the 80s and 90s: Shouty, unhinged, with phrasing that seems off -- something has gone wrong. And it doesn't have to do with tone (which is pretty much the same) or range (which is likewise pretty unaffected). This is just two years later. Two. Years. It sounds -- to me -- like someone who doesn't quite know how to sing. During those two years, in some way, something happened to Brian. His voice has never been the same since. I would bet on drug-induced brain damage or a mini-stroke (and people who have mini-strokes don't often recognize that they've had them). I don't think Brian realized that anything had happened. He didn't appear to struggle with his new voice, or act angry that anything had changed. I think he may have come to realize during his solo album that his voice was less expressive -- he talked a couple of times about how people think he "sabotaged" his performances on the album. But it took until 1998, with Imagination, for someone to seriously sit down with Brian and deal with the vocals. And I think Joe Thomas deserves tremendous credit for making Brian sound -- well -- human again. It wasn't the double tracking. It wasn't the autotune. It was getting Brian to focus on phrasing and breath control. This slow re-education has continued. Darian worked closely with Brian on his Smile leads. Melinda (I assume) brought in vocal coaches. And in TLOS and the Gershwin project, I think we finally have a Brian Wilson who has learned to phrase like a professional singer -- again. He sounds like a professional version of his 80s voice, though. He can summon the BBs sound now and again, but he sounds like a different guy. Which, in many ways, he is. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: adamghost on July 27, 2010, 02:21:46 PM I'm going to throw this explanation in there as someone that's had a chronic sinus problem that's made me examine, very closely, the nature of head resonance and how it affects one's singing.
It could easily be that the health regimen Brian was on changed the physiology of his body so radically that he COULDN'T sing the old way any longer. Singing, especially stuff like falsetto, has a lot to do with your ability to "bounce" the sound off various parts of your body...your diaphragm, throat, and sinus cavities. There's also the possibility that Brian did a lot more cocaine after 1981. If he took his septum out, well, right there, that will screw with your voice, big time. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Pretty Funky on July 27, 2010, 03:04:24 PM As far as any reunion goes, most of their songs should have the original lead singer, or in the case of some Carl leads I think Brian should do them as he has done on his solo shows. Their is however a group of tunes David should do such as Forever, but why not even You Are So Beautiful in a Dennis tribute section? Sail on Sailor is another if Blondie is not involved.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 27, 2010, 03:48:58 PM Adam -- That's some great stuff I hadn't thought about before. But would it affect phrasing? I guess it might, if Brian had to work in a different way to produce the notes.
I guess the easiest way to describe Brian's voice of the 80s and 90s is "forced" -- it just sounds like he's laboring so mightily to produce the sound -- and that certainly fits with what you're talking about. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Chris Brown on July 27, 2010, 04:35:27 PM Lots of excellent points being made here...Brian will obviously never sound like he used to again, but he continues to amaze me with the improvement he's shown in the last few years in his "older" voice. At this age, most singers' voices are declining (to varying degrees), losing range and tone quality. Brian has really defied this trend. Wirestone hit the nail on the head I think - beginning in the 80's, Brian has really had to "re-learn" how to sing. What used to come so effortlessly was no longer an option, and he had to figure out/be taught new ways to make his voice do what he wanted it to do. Something like that doesn't just happen overnight...it takes time and help in the form of positive encouragement and vocal coaching.
There have certainly been times since the 80's that Brian has sounded good...I may be in the minority, but I really thought he sang well on BW88, and I thought he sounded fantastic on Imagination. Even when he sounded good, however, something didn't quite seem right about his singing...he was trying to sing in a way that didn't sound natural anymore. Since BWPS, I feel like Brian has become more comfortable with his older voice, and is finally learning to use it in such a way that it compliments the songs he's singing. It still may take more effort from him than it used to, but you can really hear the different between a Brian Wilson who isn't confident and comfortable with his singing voice and a Brian Wilson who is. It's been an incredible thing to watch and hear, and it makes me that much more excited about what Brian still has in store for us. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: runnersdialzero on July 28, 2010, 01:50:59 AM I do not want to go to a Beach Boys reunion concert to hear Jeff Foskett sing lead vocals. Sorry.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: LostArt on July 28, 2010, 05:28:25 AM I do not want to go to a Beach Boys reunion concert to hear Jeff Foskett sing lead vocals. Sorry. I can certainly understand this, and I agree, but someone is going to have to sing those falsettos, and none of the surviving members would be able to handle it for a whole show. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Awesoman on July 28, 2010, 05:37:15 AM Wirestone, you weren't kidding - Darian's ON FIRE with this! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIpYRGIhMmA Nice vocal performance by Darian...but isn't this a Brian Wilson concert? What's Darian doing singing this song? Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: hypehat on July 28, 2010, 05:58:08 AM You might not want to click on the performance of Don't Worry Baby from the same show then....
Brian gave the lead to Darlin' to Darian, and Then I Kissed Her, Don't Worry Baby and Wouldn't it Be Nice to Jeff on that tour.... I suppose they are a band after all and it's nice, but still a little jarring. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 28, 2010, 07:57:34 AM Quote Nice vocal performance by Darian...but isn't this a Brian Wilson concert? What's Darian doing singing this song? Quote I suppose they are a band after all and it's nice, but still a little jarring. Comments like these make me want to stick rusty forks into my eyes. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: LostArt on July 28, 2010, 08:20:13 AM You might not want to galo on the performance of Don't Worry Baby from the same show then.... What is this glitch? Is everybody having the same problem. Is everybody seeing the word 'galo' here? It seems to happen whenever someone uses one of these words. I'll type each word with a space between each letter, and then type the same word normally: C h i c k galo C h u c k galo C h e c k galo WTF? Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: TdHabib on July 28, 2010, 08:48:05 AM Quote Nice vocal performance by Darian...but isn't this a Brian Wilson concert? What's Darian doing singing this song? Quote I suppose they are a band after all and it's nice, but still a little jarring. Comments like these make me want to stick rusty forks into my eyes. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 28, 2010, 10:11:37 AM I don't know what you would call the science of studying voices, and i'm certainly not one of whatever that kind of scientist is:)
Brian though has this interesting quality to his voice, and always has, the only way I can explain it is to say there's kind of a hollow sound there. He has this little hollow part of his voice, his speaking voice, his singing voice, etc. and all of that has remained throughout the incarnations of his vocal styles. The biggest 'mark out' moment where I hear the old Brian in that 'hollow' sound is on the Live @ the Roxy album (which by now is pretty dated)... when he does "This old world" pretty feebily, and then the band breaks into "Don't Worry Baby"... for the first line or two, he has that same exact tone, sound, whatever that he had on the original, even though the key is different. The weight of the vocal is still there, and sounds amazing. I can't properly explain what it is, but if anybody gets a chance, listen to that track and tell me if you hear it too. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 28, 2010, 10:19:08 AM There have certainly been times since the 80's that Brian has sounded good...I may be in the minority, but I really thought he sang well on BW88, and I thought he sounded fantastic on Imagination. Even when he sounded good, however, something didn't quite seem right about his singing...he was trying to sing in a way that didn't sound natural anymore. Since BWPS, I feel like Brian has become more comfortable with his older voice, and is finally learning to use it in such a way that it compliments the songs he's singing. The #1 difference I've noticed in Brian that he's developed in what appears to be the last 3 or 4 years! is that he sings with dynamic again.. instead of just singing everything at full voice, he's singing things tenderly, or even sounds sad on some songs. I mean, if you're taking anti-depressant medication or whatever he takes, it's probably hard to attempt to sound sad! It may be as simple as that. Listen to say... "Forever she'll be my surfer girl". Most of that (and it's a beautiful song) is sang very confidently, and strongly by Brian in kind of his full voice. He's not trying to make it sound tender or sad or anything like that. Now listen to "Southern California".... much more tender, although he's still kind of oversinging it (Love it, though). Now listen to "The Like in I Love You'.... and listen how tender his voice gets. Listen to when he flows into "The pain in painnnnting...." and how beautiful that is. YOU KNOW in the past he would have just screamed that line and ruined it. It's like he now has emotion, and feels the weight of the song, and can show tenderness and sadness and a really mature sound to the song, instead of just singing it straight. He's actually, in my opinion, a MUCH better singer right now (at least on wax!) then he was just a few short years ago. LIGHT YEARS ahead of how he sounded on "Smile". It's a beautiful thing to watch Brian change, and just see how his career, his family, and his illness have changed over the years and how he's still creating such beautiful music. Amazing to see all of this, I cannot wait to buy this album (and the Disney songs album too!). Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wylson on July 28, 2010, 12:14:37 PM Some really interesting comments. I totally agree that it is Brian's phrasing more than his tone that is different.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Runaways on July 28, 2010, 12:32:29 PM You might not want to galo on the performance of Don't Worry Baby from the same show then.... What is this glitch? Is everybody having the same problem. Is everybody seeing the word 'galo' here? It seems to happen whenever someone uses one of these words. I'll type each word with a space between each letter, and then type the same word normally: C h i c k galo C h u c k galo C h e c k galo WTF? galo, galo, galo EDIT: LOL Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Mr. Cohen on July 28, 2010, 01:16:34 PM Listen to this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZf31lOrNSY&feature=related
1971 and you can hear a clear link between this and 2010 Brian. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 28, 2010, 01:18:35 PM Yup. I hear it, especially on the falsetto.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Don_Zabu on July 28, 2010, 01:25:24 PM I don't. -shrug-
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: adamghost on July 28, 2010, 01:29:27 PM I too have noticed the change in Brian's voice in recent years. His singing on TLOS made the album for me. I never thought I would say that.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 28, 2010, 02:08:28 PM I'll also add -- I'm kind of a fan of the 80s-90s "forced" Brian voice. It's just so unusual. When you pair it with elaborate arrangements, it results in something kind of unsettling -- in a good way. And when you pair it with a simple arrangement -- just a keyboard, let's say -- it sounds like some sort of outsider musical art.
Not to mention the way that the forced voice mutated throughout those 20 years or so. It was pretty clear through BB85, then got shouty for BW88, then relaxed for Sweet Insanity, then got pinched to all heck on the Paley sessions. The strangest he ever sounded has to be on Orange Crate Art -- I think because it was recorded over three years or so. You get several of those weird voices together on the one album -- sometimes on the same song. I mean, has he ever sounded more odd than on "Movies is Magic"? And yet, "This Town Goes Down at Sunset" sounds clear as a bell. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: donald on July 28, 2010, 02:15:54 PM I'm fine if Brian stays with his "mid-range' voice and lets someone else handle the higher falsetto notes. I like his crooning voice best these days.
There are others in the pantheon of Beachboys voices who can do the high parts..........Jeffrey, Matt, Randall, and a couple of others on certain songs. Bruce is in better voice than 2 years ago. Al sounds like AL. Mike's voice varies in quality.........I guess according to song/key/part he is singing........sounded a bit uneven on his GV part recently......but still does the more nasally songs .....especially the car songs........quite well. With a little backing, the original remaining members could pull a reunion off quite well. Christian is singing better and stronger these days. To keep it in the family I would suggest Matt and Christian and for outsiders, Darian and Scott T. would round it out. Also that give you your keyboard and lead guitar. My vote for drummer is Cowsill. Hands down. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Awesoman on July 28, 2010, 02:46:58 PM Quote Nice vocal performance by Darian...but isn't this a Brian Wilson concert? What's Darian doing singing this song? Quote I suppose they are a band after all and it's nice, but still a little jarring. Comments like these make me want to stick rusty forks into my eyes. Well have fun with that. ;) Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: hypehat on July 28, 2010, 03:02:20 PM Quote Nice vocal performance by Darian...but isn't this a Brian Wilson concert? What's Darian doing singing this song? Quote I suppose they are a band after all and it's nice, but still a little jarring. Comments like these make me want to stick rusty forks into my eyes. I LIKED Darian's performance! Look! Wirestone, you weren't kidding - Darian's ON FIRE with this! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIpYRGIhMmA 'A little jarring' does not mean 'BRIAN WILSON IS GOD'. It just means i was surprised when Brian gave away those leads. I understand why - They're hardly easy songs to sing - but it's the first time that'd happened in 9 years of touring... I wouldn't want a misunderstanding to be cause of any gouging :) Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 28, 2010, 03:45:52 PM Brian's not god -- he's just a hard-working deity.
I looked at it this way. When Al does shows, he hands off several leads to other folks in his band. When Mike does shows, he does the same. And his band is "The Beach Boys," and the people singing those leads are definitely not Beach Boys. Brian handing out leads to other folks in his band wasn't totally out of thin air. Foskett has sung half-leads since the beginning (Kiss Me Baby was essentially a duet between him and Brian). Taylor has had small solo spots recently, as has Scott. And it's all being done for the right reason -- the music. Darlin' was only played on the fall tour because Darian could sing it, and Jeff handling Don't Worry Baby is the only way you can hear it in its original key. I guess the context is important, too. Brian was stoked watching Darian perform. He was excited to introduce Jeff's leads. He made Paul Mertens recite the Monster Mash. At least when I saw the fall '09 shows, this wasn't a case of Brian being lazy or out of it. Indeed, he was more involved in the shows than he'd been, well -- ever. He seemed thrilled to hear younger voices with the music, and he played keyboard throughout the songs. I was also grumpy this morning. My eyes are fine for now. ;D Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Awesoman on July 28, 2010, 08:26:12 PM Brian's not god -- he's just a hard-working deity. I looked at it this way. When Al does shows, he hands off several leads to other folks in his band. When Mike does shows, he does the same. And his band is "The Beach Boys," and the people singing those leads are definitely not Beach Boys. Brian handing out leads to other folks in his band wasn't totally out of thin air. Foskett has sung half-leads since the beginning (Kiss Me Baby was essentially a duet between him and Brian). Taylor has had small solo spots recently, as has Scott. And it's all being done for the right reason -- the music. Darlin' was only played on the fall tour because Darian could sing it, and Jeff handling Don't Worry Baby is the only way you can hear it in its original key. I guess the context is important, too. Brian was stoked watching Darian perform. He was excited to introduce Jeff's leads. He made Paul Mertens recite the Monster Mash. At least when I saw the fall '09 shows, this wasn't a case of Brian being lazy or out of it. Indeed, he was more involved in the shows than he'd been, well -- ever. He seemed thrilled to hear younger voices with the music, and he played keyboard throughout the songs. I was also grumpy this morning. My eyes are fine for now. ;D I think we're all making more out of this than is necessary; my point is if you're billing the show as "Brian Wilson" and not "Brian Wilson & The Wondermints" (and I dunno, maybe it was billed as such...therefore, this would all be moot), it's kind of a copout when Brian let's the backup band take over with lead vocals. Not the end of the world though and Darian certainly sang the hell out of "Darlin'". And taking off my Beach Boys fan cap for a second, Brian Wilson is simply not a very good singer or performer. Yeah we give him a big pass on this since he's Brian Wilson, but the curious non-fan isn't going to be so understanding of his "deer in the headlights" stare or the rather awkward hand gestures. After all, it's saying a lot that we praise him for singing notes *in tune* when he sings live. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Awesoman on July 28, 2010, 08:31:44 PM There are others in the pantheon of Beachboys voices who can do the high parts..........Jeffrey, Matt, Randall, and a couple of others on certain songs. You also have Adrian Baker, but should a reunion occur, I'm kind of hoping Baker's got a dentist appointment that day... :wink Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wylson on July 29, 2010, 01:34:38 PM Anyone else think Darlin' is just not that great a song?
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Aegir on July 29, 2010, 01:39:53 PM You might not want to galo on the performance of Don't Worry Baby from the same show then.... What is this glitch? Is everybody having the same problem. Is everybody seeing the word 'galo' here? It seems to happen whenever someone uses one of these words. I'll type each word with a space between each letter, and then type the same word normally: C h i c k galo C h u c k galo C h e c k galo WTF? galo, galo, galo EDIT: LOL Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Nicko on July 29, 2010, 01:41:38 PM I think there is a big difference between how some of the guys sound on studio recordings and how they can actually sing. I'm not sure I ever want to hear Brian attempt 'The Like in I Love You' live for example.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Pretty Funky on July 29, 2010, 02:10:29 PM Anyone else think Darlin' is just not that great a song? Ok song on the album but GREAT Live IMO. Relisten to Knebworth version. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: runnersdialzero on July 29, 2010, 02:33:03 PM Quote Nice vocal performance by Darian...but isn't this a Brian Wilson concert? What's Darian doing singing this song? Quote I suppose they are a band after all and it's nice, but still a little jarring. Comments like these make me want to stick rusty forks into my eyes. Why? Sorry, I go to a Brian Wilson concert to hear Brian Wilson sing. Not that hard to figure out, really. I honestly don't mind Darian's vocal here - he doesn't sound too bad. I absolutely loathe Foskett's "Don't Worry Baby" and "Wouldn't It Be Nice?" though. I do not go to Brian Wilson concerts to hear that. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: the captain on July 29, 2010, 02:35:59 PM I do. So there you have it: can't please everyone.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: runnersdialzero on July 29, 2010, 02:38:35 PM I do. So there you have it: can't please everyone. Oho! Matt Jardine would be a thousand times better for Brian's higher parts, anyway. I'm sorry, but I just can't stand his voice. Dude absolutely ruins the BWPS versions of "Good Vibrations", too, and "Wonderful" isn't so good because of it, either. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: phirnis on July 29, 2010, 02:39:35 PM Anyone else think Darlin' is just not that great a song? I like it, though it's never been one of my favourites. Personally I prefer "Thinkin' Bout You Baby" (both versions). Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 29, 2010, 03:23:24 PM People can't stand Brian's concerts when he sings all the way through.
They can't stand his concerts when other members of the band sing. They don't like it when he tours a lot because he's forced to do it. They don't like it when he doesn't tour, because they don't get to see him. They don't like it when he records without autotune because he botches notes. They don't like it when he records with it because he sounds fake. They don't like it when he records all the vocals himself because he sounds like "robo Brian." They don't like it when his band records vocals with him because it sounds bland. There are honestly folks here who would not be satisfied unless Brian magically became 40 years younger, strapped on a bass, brought Carl and Dennis back to life and toured 300 days a year with the band -- while simultaneously staying home and recording avant garde masterworks while at the same time never collaborating with anyone except Mike on surfing classics. Those rusty forks are looking mighty tempting ... Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Runaways on July 29, 2010, 03:24:27 PM I do. So there you have it: can't please everyone. Oho! Matt Jardine would be a thousand times better for Brian's higher parts, anyway. I'm sorry, but I just can't stand his voice. Dude absolutely ruins the BWPS versions of "Good Vibrations", too, and "Wonderful" isn't so good because of it, either. disagree on him ruining those songs. Wonderful in BWPS is my definitive version. love it Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Nicko on July 29, 2010, 03:29:42 PM People can't stand Brian's concerts when he sings all the way through. They can't stand his concerts when other members of the band sing. They don't like it when he tours a lot because he's forced to do it. They don't like it when he doesn't tour, because they don't get to see him. They don't like it when he records without autotune because he botches notes. They don't like it when he records with it because he sounds fake. They don't like it when he records all the vocals himself because he sounds like "robo Brian." They don't like it when his band records vocals with him because it sounds bland. There are honestly folks here who would not be satisfied unless Brian magically became 40 years younger, strapped on a bass, brought Carl and Dennis back to life and toured 300 days a year with the band -- while simultaneously staying home and recording avant garde masterworks while at the same time never collaborating with anyone except Mike on surfing classics. Those rusty forks are looking mighty tempting ... Yeah, it's terrible when other people have opinions... Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: the captain on July 29, 2010, 03:30:47 PM People can't stand Brian's concerts when he sings all the way through. I said it in fewer words. ;)They can't stand his concerts when other members of the band sing. They don't like it when he tours a lot because he's forced to do it. They don't like it when he doesn't tour, because they don't get to see him. They don't like it when he records without autotune because he botches notes. They don't like it when he records with it because he sounds fake. They don't like it when he records all the vocals himself because he sounds like "robo Brian." They don't like it when his band records vocals with him because it sounds bland. There are honestly folks here who would not be satisfied unless Brian magically became 40 years younger, strapped on a bass, brought Carl and Dennis back to life and toured 300 days a year with the band -- while simultaneously staying home and recording avant garde masterworks while at the same time never collaborating with anyone except Mike on surfing classics. Those rusty forks are looking mighty tempting ... Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: TdHabib on July 29, 2010, 03:32:11 PM People can't stand Brian's concerts when he sings all the way through. Great post Clay, should be engraved on a wall.They can't stand his concerts when other members of the band sing. They don't like it when he tours a lot because he's forced to do it. They don't like it when he doesn't tour, because they don't get to see him. They don't like it when he records without autotune because he botches notes. They don't like it when he records with it because he sounds fake. They don't like it when he records all the vocals himself because he sounds like "robo Brian." They don't like it when his band records vocals with him because it sounds bland. There are honestly folks here who would not be satisfied unless Brian magically became 40 years younger, strapped on a bass, brought Carl and Dennis back to life and toured 300 days a year with the band -- while simultaneously staying home and recording avant garde masterworks while at the same time never collaborating with anyone except Mike on surfing classics. Those rusty forks are looking mighty tempting ... Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Pretty Funky on July 29, 2010, 03:36:03 PM And....
They don't like it when he won't reunite with the Beach Boys. They won't like it when he reunites with the Beach Boys. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: the captain on July 29, 2010, 03:38:39 PM Seriously, though, it's as easy as that there isn't a "the fans," there are lots of fans, each a fan for different reasons (or at least largely aggregated into several primary reasons). So it can get frustrating and easy to think "there's no pleasing these people." But that should be obvious. It's not ONE PERSON who's never happy, after all. It's a huge group, some of which will ALWAYS be unhappy just because it's a big fuckin group with diverse interests and tastes. And sadly, you're not all capable of having my perfect taste.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Nicko on July 29, 2010, 03:41:55 PM Seriously, though, it's as easy as that there isn't a "the fans," there are lots of fans, each a fan for different reasons (or at least largely aggregated into several primary reasons). So it can get frustrating and easy to think "there's no pleasing these people." But that should be obvious. It's not ONE PERSON who's never happy, after all. It's a huge group, some of which will ALWAYS be unhappy just because it's a big fuckin group with diverse interests and tastes. Well, exactly. I'm sure there are plenty of people who think that a Brian show should only have him singing leads whilst plenty of others want to hear the variety of having his band members taking more vocal responsibility. Both valid opinions. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Rob Dean on July 29, 2010, 04:39:13 PM Sorry guys and gals BUT yes we all have valid points BUT we would all pay top £/$ 's to see this , would we not ??????? and we would all fall over each other to be sat in the front row next to Bruce !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Christ I know I would , blimey its been 30 Years since Knebworth (for me) to see other Boys on stage with Brian (who I have seen some 30+ times since)................. Just as a personal wish , sod Cowsill I WANT THE DRUM SEAT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thats of course if Ricky can't make it !! Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 29, 2010, 04:54:29 PM Yes, Luther, you are absolutely right. And you were far more succinct than I. ;D
I am one of the "pleased with what I gets," and have ever been thus. I think the last 15 years or so have been an astonishing time. The online fans have almost entirely turned over in during that time -- and what was once counted as gospel (people once thought of Sweet Insanity as an unreleased classic) is no longer true. Which is good in many ways. And frustrating in others. I love you all anyway. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Awesoman on July 29, 2010, 07:03:33 PM People can't stand Brian's concerts when he sings all the way through. They can't stand his concerts when other members of the band sing. They don't like it when he tours a lot because he's forced to do it. They don't like it when he doesn't tour, because they don't get to see him. They don't like it when he records without autotune because he botches notes. They don't like it when he records with it because he sounds fake. They don't like it when he records all the vocals himself because he sounds like "robo Brian." They don't like it when his band records vocals with him because it sounds bland. There are honestly folks here who would not be satisfied unless Brian magically became 40 years younger, strapped on a bass, brought Carl and Dennis back to life and toured 300 days a year with the band -- while simultaneously staying home and recording avant garde masterworks while at the same time never collaborating with anyone except Mike on surfing classics. Those rusty forks are looking mighty tempting ... Would you rather us all be mindless robots with the same exact opinion? Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: grillo on July 29, 2010, 08:26:27 PM Now you're catching on...
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Jim V. on July 29, 2010, 09:47:52 PM I do. So there you have it: can't please everyone. Oho! Matt Jardine would be a thousand times better for Brian's higher parts, anyway. I'm sorry, but I just can't stand his voice. Dude absolutely ruins the BWPS versions of "Good Vibrations", too, and "Wonderful" isn't so good because of it, either. Hey runners your buddy sweetdudejim from a6 here....sorry if i'm alittle off but whos voice are you talking about Jeff Foskett or BW?. Honestly I never even think of him on either track. I know of course he's like doubling Brian of something on "Wonderful," but honestly that is THE standard version of that song to me whereas The Beach Boys versions of Heroes, Surfs Up and Good Vibes are all still the real deal for me. However, Darian on H&V with thoe 'do-yous' or whatever it is drives me nuts. Another thing, somewhat off topic, but since we kinda drifted towards BWPS...does anybody think "Roll Plymouth Rock" just doesnt sound as creepy as the original? I mean, I suppose you can say that of all the sessions, but I still hear that "ghostly" quality on things like "Child", "Cabin Essence" and even "Surf's Up" from BWPS. Just "RPR" seems to be more bright and happy, than the weird and psychedlic way i first heard on the box set years ago. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: runnersdialzero on July 30, 2010, 01:22:17 AM People can't stand Brian's concerts when he sings all the way through. They can't stand his concerts when other members of the band sing. They don't like it when he tours a lot because he's forced to do it. They don't like it when he doesn't tour, because they don't get to see him. They don't like it when he records without autotune because he botches notes. They don't like it when he records with it because he sounds fake. They don't like it when he records all the vocals himself because he sounds like "robo Brian." They don't like it when his band records vocals with him because it sounds bland. There are honestly folks here who would not be satisfied unless Brian magically became 40 years younger, strapped on a bass, brought Carl and Dennis back to life and toured 300 days a year with the band -- while simultaneously staying home and recording avant garde masterworks while at the same time never collaborating with anyone except Mike on surfing classics. Those rusty forks are looking mighty tempting ... You're totally making blanket generalizations about the people here, really, and not being fair. I don't mind people singing at Brian's shows if they sound decent - Jeff doesn't. I'd rather an all Brian show than having Jeff do a lead, even if it means a good vocalist like Darian doesn't get to do anything, either. It's a Brian Wilson show after all. I don't want him to tour if he doesn't want to, I'd rather hear a few bum notes than autotune (or better yet, just do vocal comping), and while I enjoy his backing band and generally prefer them to Brian doing all vocals, they do get a bit too Broadway for my tastes at times. It isn't so black or white, it doesn't have to be either 20 Brians or extreme cheese Broadway style vocals. It doesn't have to be an entire vocal ran through an autotune filter or just leaving Brian hitting a terrible note in. I don't think it's irrational in the least bit to complain about such things. Point being that everyone has different opinions and you're making it sound like we're all hypocrites. Sorry, I cannot friggin' stand Jeff's voice and if the Beach Boys are gonna reunite (something that's kind of a big deal seeing as it's been about a decade and a half), I do not like the idea of Jeff singing leads. That's all, no need to take it further and make snap judgements about the fanbase over it. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 30, 2010, 10:53:12 AM I think there is a big difference between how some of the guys sound on studio recordings and how they can actually sing. I'm not sure I ever want to hear Brian attempt 'The Like in I Love You' live for example. I think they're just more consistant in the studio because they staple together several takes to make one good one. Brian pulls off some really great stuff in concert sometimes, other times not so much. I think he could do "The Like in I Love You" no problem Live. When he KILLED that Christmas song on Late Night iwth Jay Leno a few years back, I got a lot of respect back for his live vocals. I haven't seen him in concert, or even heard recent recordings but he certainly can still go on a good night. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Amy B. on July 30, 2010, 02:48:46 PM Listen to this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZf31lOrNSY&feature=related 1971 and you can hear a clear link between this and 2010 Brian. Yes, I hear both 80s Brian and 2010 Brian in the falsetto. And this is also proof that even by the early 70s, Brian's voice had changed. He never sounded like this in the 60s. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Amy B. on July 30, 2010, 03:21:57 PM It's true that there's no pleasing everyone. People on this board have been suggesting that Brian should give his band members some lead vocal duties for years. When he did, other people complained. Just a difference of opinion.
When I took my father and stepmother to see Brian in '09, I was curious to see what they'd think, since neither one really knows much about Brian or the BBs. They LOVED Jeff's voice and commented that "Brian isn't really that good of a singer, is he," to which I said, "He used to be better, but he also used to be worse." Having seen him in '04, I thought he had vastly improved. They felt Jeff should have done more leads. Personally, I don't hate Jeff's voice, but I don't love it either. I don't think it has much character. Loved Darian's "Darlin', though. To be fair, Brian still sings the vast majority of leads himself. The band takes maybe 3 or 4 songs, if I remember right. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 30, 2010, 04:30:17 PM I'm sorry, but I just can't stand his voice. Dude absolutely ruins the BWPS versions of "Good Vibrations", too, and "Wonderful" isn't so good because of it, either. OH NO YOU DIDN'T! Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Myk Luhv on July 30, 2010, 06:57:11 PM I think there is a big difference between how some of the guys sound on studio recordings and how they can actually sing. I'm not sure I ever want to hear Brian attempt 'The Like in I Love You' live for example. I think they're just more consistant in the studio because they staple together several takes to make one good one. Brian pulls off some really great stuff in concert sometimes, other times not so much. I think he could do "The Like in I Love You" no problem Live. When he KILLED that Christmas song on Late Night iwth Jay Leno a few years back, I got a lot of respect back for his live vocals. I haven't seen him in concert, or even heard recent recordings but he certainly can still go on a good night. Any way to hear him singin' whichever Christmas tune you're referrin' to? It doesn't seem to be on YouTube, which I found strange! Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 30, 2010, 07:36:43 PM Guessing he means this, which is actually Jimmy Kimmel.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrD4zfgO6kI I'm pretty sure it's lip-synced, which all of the Christmas album promo appearances were, for some reason. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Amy B. on July 30, 2010, 07:49:19 PM Guessing he means this, which is actually Jimmy Kimmel. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrD4zfgO6kI I'm pretty sure it's lip-synced, which all of the Christmas album promo appearances were, for some reason. I think at the time, Melinda or Michael DeMartin got on the blueboard and swore up and down that it was live, and that Brian had the band practice over and over so it would be perfect. How strange-- I was just thinking about Brian and his brothers, and my iPod (in the dock) turned itself on and started playing Still I Dream of It. Freaky. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 30, 2010, 08:06:22 PM Nope, it was on the Tonight Show with Leno, who doesn't allow lip syncing. There was a big hub bub about it at the time, and Melinda specifically said on the blue board that it most definately was live and not lip synced.
Some people think she's a liar though; so if you think she's a liar, you probably will think that he lip sync'd it. LOL It was December 6th, 2005, and was announced kind of at the last second. Melinda said later that Brian & the band showed up really early, practiced all day, then nailed the song that night. I saw the Youtube Jimmy Kimmel clip, which was two weeks later, same song, and obviously lip synced, so who knows? I do know that Jay has a history of not allowing people to lip sync on his show... but I can't ignore the evidence of the Jimmy Kimmel clip. I remember at the time everybody was adament that he wasn't lip syncing, but apparently the video is lost to the ages... Edit: What Amy said... Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 30, 2010, 08:10:29 PM Jeff F. swore up and down in 1999 that Brian's teleprompters didn't display his lyrics.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 30, 2010, 08:11:53 PM I think anytime anybody makes a declarative statement like that they're in trouble. Brian's teleprompters probably don't always show his lyrics, but I'm pretty sure I've seen a picture or video or something of them displaying lyrics.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 30, 2010, 08:16:43 PM Here's Brian doing "God Only Knows" 1 year ago fully in key and it's pretty damn good.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnZ53d2tYT0 I'd say he's close to as good as he is in the studio live. Check out the expression with his hand, and the tremor in his voice @ 2:00 LOL He forgets the words shortly before that as well. Guess the teleprompter was turned off that night. He looks SO FUCKING SAD on stage, though. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wirestone on July 30, 2010, 08:18:47 PM Ron -- I nearly posted a BW GOK performance myself -- but it's from a month or so ago. Even better.
And of course Brian has lyrics on his teleprompter (not that he always looks at them). That's why it was so silly that Foskett bothered to deny it -- even at the shows in 99, people could see that there were lyrics scrolling on the screens. And who cares? It's one of those things -- the denials always make people look worse than just admitting it. So what, he uses a teleprompter. So what, he lip syncs now and then. Who cares? Denying it just makes everyone look like they have something to hide. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 30, 2010, 08:23:25 PM Yeah, I don't really care one way or the other about either, or about autotune, or any of that.
The problem with the insinuation is that it implies, sometimes, that he uses all of that as a crutch, and takes away from his talent. So I think that's why his people get defensive about it. Years ago, R.E.M. did MTV Unplugged (famously). Michael Stype (? spelling?) pulled out a sheet of lyrics for "The End of the World as We Know It" and was like "Who the hell can remember all those words?" lol or something like that. If I were a 60 year old who had written hundreds of songs, hell i'd want the lyrics somewhere. Another thing to think about is Brian doing something like that is only representative of he and his people trying to put on the best show they can. Brian has mental issues, if he forgets the words the show is going to fucking suck, I think they should do whatever they can to make sure the show doesn't suck. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 30, 2010, 08:37:23 PM Another great story that's floated around for a few years about this...
Several years ago, Brian for a few years recorded Christmas songs, then gave them away for free on his website. This would have been in the early to mid 2000's. So, one was "Christmas Day" which was awesome and i'm sure previously released, then one was "Joy to the World" which was amazing. I'm not saying that's the best version of that song, but it's very complex and has a completely incredible harmony part before the verse... I know everybody's heard it, but that "Bum, bum, bum bum... bum, bum, bum, bum" with him in the background going "diddit... dup diddit... dup diddit" or whatever in my opinion is one of the strangest and most hauntingly beautiful things he ever did. Just amazing. So anyways, the caliber of songs he was releasing for free on Christmas was pretty damn good. So everybody started kind of expecting this each year on the BlueBoard. So one year, he released "Silent Night". I don't really like his version, it's just not all that good... and so a bunch of others apparently didn't like it that much either, and started actually COMPLAINING about it on the blue board! I mean straight up talking sh*t about it, after it was recorded. Bitching about how it was acapella, and parts sounded off, and maybe if he would have recorded it with the band, and blah blah blah. So apparently, at the time Melinda was in the habit of responding to people's posts, or responding AS Brian, or at best typing out what Brian wanted to say to people's posts. Brian posted the following, which ties into the lip sync, teleprompter, etc. debate. : Come on Everyone.......It's Christmas....... Melinda told me what has been going on here and it is really sad and not at all what I intended to have happen when I started this cool site. When I recorded Silent Night the other day in the studio, it was just a cool little Christmas message to you guys. I am not sure why someone would judge my abilities by a simple little Christmas tune I sang to bring some love and Christmas cheer to my fans. Then I read that someone said they wouldn't kid themself into thinking I did it for the listening pleasure for the Blueboarders......I can't imagine what I have done to make you think that way......The most hurtful part of this entire event is that it now seems as though I am expected to show you if I still have it? That's crazy. What's even more scary is that some of you are now fighting over what I considered to be a Christmas card to my fans. It would be like me sending you a real Christmas card and having you return it and say it's not as good as the one I sent you last year or the year before. Why are you judging me? All I wanted to do it wish all of you a very Merry Christmas......and look what's happened. I would hope that the events of 9/11 would have taught us all that there are far more important issues than whether Brian Wilson still "has it". Let's please put all this behind us and try to love and understand one another not only during this holiday season but from this point forward. You guys have to know when you write things on this board that Melinda and I read them. Do not be hurtful to her and please respect me. For those of you who appreciated my holiday message........many thanks and for those who didn't, just throw the card away. Love and Mercy, Brian" BRILLIANT Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Myk Luhv on July 30, 2010, 10:14:34 PM I wish Brian would talk like that [at all|more] in general!
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wylson on July 31, 2010, 03:37:47 AM Another great story that's floated around for a few years about this... Several years ago, Brian for a few years recorded Christmas songs, then gave them away for free on his website. This would have been in the early to mid 2000's. So, one was "Christmas Day" which was awesome and i'm sure previously released, then one was "Joy to the World" which was amazing. I'm not saying that's the best version of that song, but it's very complex and has a completely incredible harmony part before the verse... I know everybody's heard it, but that "Bum, bum, bum bum... bum, bum, bum, bum" with him in the background going "diddit... dup diddit... dup diddit" or whatever in my opinion is one of the strangest and most hauntingly beautiful things he ever did. Just amazing. So anyways, the caliber of songs he was releasing for free on Christmas was pretty damn good. So everybody started kind of expecting this each year on the BlueBoard. So one year, he released "Silent Night". I don't really like his version, it's just not all that good... and so a bunch of others apparently didn't like it that much either, and started actually COMPLAINING about it on the blue board! I mean straight up talking merda about it, after it was recorded. Bitching about how it was acapella, and parts sounded off, and maybe if he would have recorded it with the band, and blah blah blah. So apparently, at the time Melinda was in the habit of responding to people's posts, or responding AS Brian, or at best typing out what Brian wanted to say to people's posts. Brian posted the following, which ties into the lip sync, teleprompter, etc. debate. : Come on Everyone.......It's Christmas....... Melinda told me what has been going on here and it is really sad and not at all what I intended to have happen when I started this cool site. When I recorded Silent Night the other day in the studio, it was just a cool little Christmas message to you guys. I am not sure why someone would judge my abilities by a simple little Christmas tune I sang to bring some love and Christmas cheer to my fans. Then I read that someone said they wouldn't kid themself into thinking I did it for the listening pleasure for the Blueboarders......I can't imagine what I have done to make you think that way......The most hurtful part of this entire event is that it now seems as though I am expected to show you if I still have it? That's crazy. What's even more scary is that some of you are now fighting over what I considered to be a Christmas card to my fans. It would be like me sending you a real Christmas card and having you return it and say it's not as good as the one I sent you last year or the year before. Why are you judging me? All I wanted to do it wish all of you a very Merry Christmas......and look what's happened. I would hope that the events of 9/11 would have taught us all that there are far more important issues than whether Brian Wilson still "has it". Let's please put all this behind us and try to love and understand one another not only during this holiday season but from this point forward. You guys have to know when you write things on this board that Melinda and I read them. Do not be hurtful to her and please respect me. For those of you who appreciated my holiday message........many thanks and for those who didn't, just throw the card away. Love and Mercy, Brian" BRILLIANT Amazing story - thanks Ron. Do you think that was really Brian writing, or Melinda? Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: the captain on July 31, 2010, 08:21:17 AM I think the teleprompter complaint is one of the weakest ones imaginable. Musicians are not necessarily, inherently memorizers--those are different talents. Are we mad if a good songwriter, singer, or player doesn't run fast enough? Can't dunk a basketball? Then why that s/he needs to jog the ol' memory to remember some words, chord changes, or whatever? I would guess that fans may have emotional connections to these songs and consider it a slight to their bonds with those songs that the performer fails to have that same connection.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on July 31, 2010, 09:05:16 AM I think Melinda typed roughly what Brian wanted her to type in that instance. It sounds an awful lot like him in my opinion. It's an interesting little post because it has all of Brian's self-doubt, even though he proclaims he's not trying to prove anything, he still asks why people are judging him. Plus the last little line is classic Brian. He's a pretty clever person sometimes.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Jason on July 31, 2010, 09:16:46 AM Man, I remember reading those exchanges on the blueboard back when Brian put Silent Night up as a stream. That was one of my early hints of the bullshit on that cesspool of a forum. And that post that Brian put up, of course Melinda typed it. But the wording is completely Brian.
Christ, who remembers the incident back when some fan went apeshit on the blueboard, saying Brian should just retire? I forget the exact gist of that post, but I'm reliably told that Brian himself actually considered it at one point until the cavalry came out. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Alex on July 31, 2010, 09:51:32 AM Listen to this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZf31lOrNSY&feature=related 1971 and you can hear a clear link between this and 2010 Brian. Sounds like it's halfway between his 60s falsetto and his MIU-era falsetto. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: hypehat on July 31, 2010, 02:54:21 PM I never thought that was Brian....
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Mr. Cohen on August 01, 2010, 10:43:31 AM Yeah, when I said there was a link between "Awake" and Brian's voice now, it didn't say it was a direct link. I'm just saying that it's easy to imagine this voice sounding like Brian's voice after the man singing it has aged 30+ years. There are certain qualities in his phrasing and tone I hear in Brian now. Now, if you listen to 1960s Brian, that can be a lot harder, because he hadn't started snorting cocaine and smoking more cigarettes. And at the same time, this 1971 voice is still very easy to imagine as being the Brian we heard in the 60s. All IMO, of course.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wylson on August 01, 2010, 11:50:46 AM I've always thought Brian's low part on Cool, Cool Water sounds pretty much like modern day Brian, and is the clear link between the voices.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: runnersdialzero on August 01, 2010, 06:22:02 PM I don't hear the connection between an "Awake" Brian and current Brian. The furthest back I can hear current Brian is the 1985 self titled album and absolutely nothing before. Prior to that, it sounds like one or two completely different people.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: MBE on August 01, 2010, 11:39:46 PM I think Brian sang great in 1971. His voice had been a little lower as early as 1966. He nails the notes here and remember he was almost 30 not 20 anymore. Since 1975 I don't think he's been a great singer. He's OK at times but not anything special vocally. He is more professional in the last ten years or so.
Al sounds pretty good (probably the best out of the original group) but said as early as 1989 that he couldn't hit the high notes like he had before. Mike doesn't do the nasal leads so great but when he sings in a lower register he sounds pretty good. Bruce Hasn't really sounded great since the seventies. He's OK but kind of husky sounding. David sounds deeper then in his youth but actually he sounds pretty nice overall. Blondie (at least the last I heard him) sounds terrific. Ricky sounded good on the 1996 Rutles album but I haven't heard him since then. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: matt-zeus on August 02, 2010, 05:14:00 AM I think Brian sounds great when he's not forcing the vocals, two good ones which stick into mind are the 1994 Paley version of 'Gettin in over my head' - lovely vocal - in fact 'You're still a mystery' is good too. Another good one is 'Heavenly lovers' well the verse anyway, the chorus is a bit overwrought. I know these songs were done quite a while ago but this was when he was generally shouting a lot vocally.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: TdHabib on August 02, 2010, 10:48:55 AM Since 1975 I don't think he's been a great singer. He's OK at times but not anything special vocally. He is more professional in the last ten years or so. It's all a matter of opinion but I think the new Gershwin project will do wonders to change this perception, he sounds great as far as I can tell. Then again, the material might not be to some people's liking. It's all good either way.Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Stegibo on August 03, 2010, 03:05:37 AM Bruce's voice is in great shape!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CYXC2qxGF4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CYXC2qxGF4) Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Mr. Cohen on August 03, 2010, 03:47:55 AM I'll be honest, I can't watch that Bruce video because of how much he touches the microphone. It's irritating and distracting. When you couple it with the occasional quivers in his voice, it's unnerving. So much nervous energy. It's not fun to watch.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: oldsurferdude on August 03, 2010, 07:59:10 AM Bruce's voice is in great shape! Just one of the many reasons not to see the M & B show. :ohttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CYXC2qxGF4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CYXC2qxGF4) Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on August 03, 2010, 08:10:19 AM I feel bad for Bruce sometimes. I hear the nervousness in his voice too.
Makes me wonder how many times Mike made fun of whether he's still got it, how badly the song sold, how old he is, blah blah blah everything else before he agreed to let Bruce sing it in that show. Personally I think he sounds great. In the studio, he'd KILL that. for the record, I didn't watch the video, just listened to it. I was born with eyelids I can close over my eyes if I'm around something I don't want to see. Just sayin'. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Stegibo on August 03, 2010, 10:48:47 AM Bruce said on the BBB board that he had forgotten to set the mic before the song.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Wylson on August 03, 2010, 03:20:05 PM I think Bruce sounds great, absolutely vital part of any reunion - still has a pure voice, capable of singing mid-high parts in the studio. He could easily replicate his 70s sound in the studio.
The more I think about, the more I think the Boys would be capable of producing a great studio sound. Brian comes pretty close just stacking his vocals (e.g. Rhapsody), and with a bit of sweetening from Bruce, bit of body from Al, bit of character and bass from Mike.... Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on August 03, 2010, 03:23:15 PM I think Al is the most integral part to a reunion recording, his voice has that Beach Boys sound. I didn't realize his voice was so prominent in so much stuff, but listening to him sing solo, he really sounds authentic. With him in the mix, it'll really add a lot, I feel.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Stegibo on August 07, 2010, 10:36:39 AM I wonder how it sounds if Mike would sing "Meant For You" now. ???
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Curtis Leon on August 07, 2010, 11:56:32 PM It's odd, but I think Brian's vocal sound less... worn, than they did during TLOS. It's hard to put down, but he sounded very... throaty during that album. Like he couldn't clear his throat properly. On BWRG I think the problem's been cleared. Which is odd, to say the least.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Stegibo on August 09, 2010, 02:12:14 PM Another video that shows the great state of Bruce's voice:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoCVwnJbR2A (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoCVwnJbR2A) Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on August 09, 2010, 03:30:06 PM While searching for ... em.... some recent music online, I found some crazy asian beach boys fan club, I couldn't read a damn thing but the whole page was covered with Youtube videos from the past *week* of the BB's in concert. I was pleasantly surprised. I saw them on t.v. a couple times recently, and they were godawful, but in concert, man, they're still very, very good! Could't believe it. Of course a lot of it was the rest of the band, but Mike sounded great, and Bruce sounded great.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: carl r on August 14, 2010, 03:07:29 AM As much as I like Darian, I don't think he should sing in a BB reunion - he has never played with them before, and I don't think his voice suits the blend, or would help to recreate the blend (which surely is the aim?). He should play though. Well I'd disagree with that. I think only the participation of Brian's current band, as well as bringing in Carl's old guys from the late 60s/early 70s, would be the only way to stop the musical backdrop in any reunion sounding like a tinny MIDI file. No Carl, No Dennis, the Beach Boys don't really exist as a band, and the survivors will need a mess of help. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Autotune on August 14, 2010, 05:57:23 AM While searching for ... em.... some recent music online, I found some crazy asian beach boys fan club, I couldn't read a damn thing but the whole page was covered with Youtube videos from the past *week* of the BB's in concert. I was pleasantly surprised. I saw them on t.v. a couple times recently, and they were godawful, but in concert, man, they're still very, very good! Could't believe it. Of course a lot of it was the rest of the band, but Mike sounded great, and Bruce sounded great. Well, some people -specially those who don't go to his shows- were quick to diss Mike's current vocals based on the Dancing with the stars appearance. But, come on, based on TV appearances we could have dissed the BBs in 1963. As you correctly point, there are plenty of examples of Mike's truly great vocals these days. People who've heard him live have been impressed by the effortlessness and coolness of his vocals in the fast songs. Give Mike a chance and he'll rock those songs. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: The Shift on August 14, 2010, 07:04:17 AM While searching for ... em.... some recent music online, I found some crazy asian beach boys fan club, I couldn't read a damn thing but the whole page was covered with Youtube videos from the past *week* of the BB's in concert. I was pleasantly surprised. I saw them on t.v. a couple times recently, and they were godawful, but in concert, man, they're still very, very good! Could't believe it. Of course a lot of it was the rest of the band, but Mike sounded great, and Bruce sounded great. Well, some people -specially those who don't go to his shows- were quick to diss Mike's current vocals based on the Dancing with the stars appearance. But, come on, based on TV appearances we could have dissed the BBs in 1963. As you correctly point, there are plenty of examples of Mike's truly great vocals these days. People who've heard him live have been impressed by the effortlessness and coolness of his vocals in the fast songs. Give Mike a chance and he'll rock those songs. Based on TV appearances, a lot of us here might have walked after Brian's slot on the Queen's golden jubilee show a few years back. When people hear that I'm a BW fan, that's the show they refer to when they tell me he's a brain-dead wreck. That's the evidence they have that makes them experts! Mike's DWTS slot might have been bad (to some eyes/ears) but should you judge a 50-year career on the strength of a five-minute TV appearance? Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: The Heartical Don on August 14, 2010, 07:13:04 AM While searching for ... em.... some recent music online, I found some crazy asian beach boys fan club, I couldn't read a damn thing but the whole page was covered with Youtube videos from the past *week* of the BB's in concert. I was pleasantly surprised. I saw them on t.v. a couple times recently, and they were godawful, but in concert, man, they're still very, very good! Could't believe it. Of course a lot of it was the rest of the band, but Mike sounded great, and Bruce sounded great. Well, some people -specially those who don't go to his shows- were quick to diss Mike's current vocals based on the Dancing with the stars appearance. But, come on, based on TV appearances we could have dissed the BBs in 1963. As you correctly point, there are plenty of examples of Mike's truly great vocals these days. People who've heard him live have been impressed by the effortlessness and coolness of his vocals in the fast songs. Give Mike a chance and he'll rock those songs. Based on TV appearances, a lot of us here might have walked after Brian's slot on the Queen's golden jubilee show a few years back. When people hear that I'm a BW fan, that's the show they refer to when they tell me he's a brain-dead wreck. That's the evidence they have that makes them experts! Mike's DWTS slot might have been bad (to some eyes/ears) but should you judge a 50-year career on the strength of a five-minute TV appearance? Now that you mention that one... I said afterwards to my record retailer: well, he did have a classy suit on, didn't he? The shop owner replied drily: yes, but it was starched too much, wasn't it? Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: the captain on August 14, 2010, 07:15:52 AM Now, Don, we all know that explaining your joke will always ruin it. For shame.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: The Heartical Don on August 14, 2010, 07:21:45 AM Now, Don, we all know that explaining your joke will always ruin it. For shame. I'll forever be in your debt, sweet mr Luther, sir. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: the captain on August 14, 2010, 07:22:52 AM That's what I like to hear.
Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Curtis Leon on August 25, 2010, 01:39:21 AM I hate to bring this up, but I'm still wondering if he actually "destroyed" his voice. I have the hunch he could sing like Holland-era or "Rollin' Up To Heaven" on 15BO and Love You. Just my opinion. And honestly, he sounds like nearly the same guy on "Please Let Me Wonder", "God Only Knows" (yes I know Carl did the released lead), and things like the bridges to "Surfer Girl" and "In My Room". And I'm not the kindest to judge his vocals. I think the '04 "Surf's Up" left a bit to be desired, especially in the phrasing. Carl did the lead to Please Let Me Wonder too, actually. And somehow, I rather doubt he could sing Holland-era in his late seventies/early eighties voice. I can hear the Holland era falsetto on Steamboat and Funky Pretty, and let me tell you, you can still hear the 60's Brian on it. Sure, he was definitely singing lower by that point. But I'd have to chalk that up more to age than cocaine or cigs. He wasn't doing so much of it that early long, although it was a problem then. You have to consider the fact that he was 30 something years old now, and wasn't so young anymore. And he always sang in falsetto, too. Which puts a lot more strain on the voice. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: mikeyj on August 25, 2010, 02:35:57 AM Carl did the lead to Please Let Me Wonder too, actually. Huh? That's definitely Brian! Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: grillo on August 25, 2010, 05:31:57 AM Carl did the lead to Please Let Me Wonder too, actually. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Curtis Leon on August 25, 2010, 06:08:48 AM Carl did the lead to Please Let Me Wonder too, actually. Oh, right. Sorry, had one of those moments. It's Brian doing an impression of Carl, I'd say. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on August 25, 2010, 06:19:08 AM On the 'facebook' interview, the videotape shows Brian singing a little vocal warmup when he mentions his vocal coach. He sings it in falsetto, pretty fucking high. It's of course just him messing around and a throwaway, but his falsetto voice is still there, he could do all this sh*t live to varying degrees if he wanted to.
Hell lets make him. God Dammit Brian, you're going to do the reunion and you're going to sing the fucking high parts. GO DO SURFER GIRL. DAMN IT BRIAN, GO DO SURFER GIRL!!!!!!! Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: junkbondtrader on August 25, 2010, 09:35:10 AM I saw Brian last in 01' when he toured with Paul Simon.
And I thought Brian sounded great. I didn't come in with huge expectations of him sounded like 60's Brian though. Title: Re: State of the surviving voices Post by: Ron on August 25, 2010, 10:01:01 AM He's obviously faking this whole "Can't sing anymore" sh*t. I say we put more pressure on him.
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