Ain’t No American Idol

The song “Ain’t No American Idol” from Rev. Bubba D. Liverance & the Cornhole Prophets’ latest album is starting to garner attention from rock radio in some major markets.  We’re more than pleased with the airplay and attention and want to share some of our feelings about the TV show, “American Idol”.  If you’d like to hear the song, go to www.revbubbaband.com.

First off, the show is entertaining, especially the audition segments.  And I can’t blame these young people, seeing the “carrots” of stardom and money dangling before them, and taking a shot.  Former finalists like Taylor Hicks, Clay Aiken, and Carrie Underwood may have hit the lottery with their instant fame, however sustaining a long term career is a different matter.  Personally, I prefer the route taken by the Beatles, Tom Petty, Springsteen, and the Stones.

Each of these artists developed their writing and vocals skills over time.  They were, and still are, road warriors that feel compelled to perform live with a mutual admiration between artist and audience.  I can’t guarantee this, but I don’t think any of these iconic artists got into this for the money but rather their love of music and performing.

I also understand the “powers that be” at American Idol, by contract, receive in the neighborhood of 50% of revenues generated by any success their artists may have.  Shame on them!  Also, it appears the major record labels have abandoned the thought of developing new artists and bands. Now they just wait for the end of the American Idol season,  sign the top 10 or so finalists, throw them against the wall and see who sticks.

Give me the kid whose parents tell him it’s time to go to bed, he turns the lights out, and quietly plays his guitar for a few more hours.  Give me the kid whose trashcan is full of balled up lyric sheets of poorly written songs but he keeps writing anyway.  Give me the kid who calls his musician buddies to form a band and continuously rattles the neighborhood from his garage.  Or, give me the kid who is willing to load his amps and drums in his trunk, pile 5 guys in the front, and drive 100 miles for a gig with no pay. That’s how you learn about rock ‘n roll.

We all know the story of the rabbit and the turtle.  I’ll take the turtle!  Rev. Bubba D.

Tags: American Idol, Springsteen, Tom Petty