The viral spread of video and interest in Susan Boyle‘s singing performance on Britain’s Got Talent is a true curiosity. Admittedly, my musical background makes me a tough critic. My girlfriend, Jessica, being a singer since she was 6 (first recording contract at 12), is an even tougher critic.

Watching American Idol with Jessica, who doubles as professional singer and vocal coach, is fun. She is a stickler for technique, such as correct breathing and pitch, as well as presence and delivery. She often wonders, out loud, where the American Idol vocal coaches are hiding, and how-the-heck is helping these young men and women with song choices.

So when we watched the musical performance of Susan Boyle on one of the many cable news programs, I had my opinion, but I was more interested in the unvarnished truth that Jessica would blurt out: She said, “Oh please. She sings like Kate Smith. What exactly is the big deal, here?”

I responded with my take, “The big deal is that when one looks at her, what comes out of her mouth is a total surprise. Her voice is unexpected and nice. But I would call it the Frump Factor.”

There, I said it: Frump Factor. Susan Boyle has become a novelty act because of, or in spite of her personal appearance.

===

Who the heck is Kate Smith?

Kate Smith was a singer, best known for her rendition of Irving Berlin‘s “God Bless America“. Smith had a radio, TV and recording career spanning five decades, reaching its most-remembered zenith in the 1940s. Berlin’s God Bless America received a resurgence in the wake of 9/11 and is played during the 7th inning stretch at Yankee Stadium at every game.

Kate weighed 235 pounds at the age of 30. Her broad figure made her an occasional object of derision from fellow performers and managers; however, in her later career, some Philadelphia Flyers hockey fans  lovingly said about her performances before games, “it ain’t BEGUN ’til the fat lady sings!”

===

What’s the morale of this story?

The reality of our society is that people born with extraordinary looks or financial resources have an advantage in life. It may not be fair, but that’s how it is.

However, whether one is a “Twiggy” or a big-beautiful-woman, good grooming and looking the part is an important part of getting over. I agree that Susan Boyle has a nice voice. That’s it, that’s all.

I’ll give you just one pop singer, who came from a church background. Aretha Franklin. Now she can bring it!!

===

And what does this have to do with wedding marketing? Impressions. First, last, and always. We all have some challenges, but many of us create more challenges, and then blame circumstances.

Going to a networking or business meeting. Dress the part. Show up on time. Be well groomed and exceptional at what you do.

Period!

Andy Ebon
The Wedding Marketing Authority

Share on Facebook

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!