Nigel Lythgoe: Shut Up!

:tsk: Just came back from the American Idol website and saw that article in which Nigel tells us some of what to expect from this new season and then read what he thought about each of the winners of past seasons.

I feel like hitting him over the head with a frying pan by making that remark about America getting it wrong the year Taylor won. He also goes on to say Chris Daughtry should have won because he is a true "musical star". Why do these people over at that show continue to put Taylor down so much. After all he got the highest number of votes ever on his season and has also been added to the Guiness Book of records because of that feat. I personally am tired of Chris being shoved down our throats (I do not give a hang that his sales have done so good). I am still amazed that Chris is doing so well with his cd, his awards, etc. I guess people are just into a brooding type of guy.

Needless to say I have lost respect for Nigel and wish he would keep his big mouth shut.

daughtry sounds like a lot of s*** that is out there. you have to remember that pop/rock been lacking in real music for so long that they don't know it when it right there in front of the faces.

and some else if randy, simon, paula and the rest didn't think Taylor was good enough they should have never put him though.
they only turn on him after he won.
i just don't understand why they just don't support him. all he wants to do is make a living doing what he loves to do the most.
it is people like Nigel i was talking about when i made out my list of what i wanted to give taylor for christmas. check out the list under 'playing santa'.

Mae, Simon never did like Taylor and I think only gave him the compliments he did at the end because he knew Taylor was what most people wanted especially after Chris was voted off.

As for Randy and Paula I think they were happy for him when he won. I remember seeing Randy with Taylor, Katharine and Ryan Seacrest on the Larry King show and only good things were said about how unique and talented Tay is.

The real culprit here is the Clive Davis group which includes Nigel that have failed to promote Taylor the way they should have. The good news is Taylor has a legion of fans who will never let him down.

for posting!

Nigel is a twit, He thinks that America got it wrong with Taylor and all he is doing is making him self look like a idiot. I watch my AI tapes a lot good ol Nigel is enjoying Taylor as much as every else there, clapping and smiling. He's a jerk and I don't understand why he would make such a statement when both Jordin and Blakes Cd sales are much lower than Taylors were. I agree Concertcris that the only reason Simon started giving Taylor compliments was when it was very clear who the AMERICAN favorite was and who was going to win.. But it didn't take him long to reverse all that at the start of season 6. He's a jerk plain and simple

As for Randy and Paula, I honestly believe they liked Taylor for his music sense and his performing ways. And as Ryan said in many interviews Taylor made the season FUN, something that must have been missing in earlier seasons. I watched Randy and Paula on the s-6 finale and when Taylor perfomed they loved him, Simon didn't even bother watching as he had done with so many of Taylors performances.. I didn't like Randy's agreement with Simon when Sundance Head auditioned last season about him blowing Taylor out of the water but I just think it didn't set in until later what Simon has said and Randy would have agreed with anything ha..
I don't think Chris is in the wrong with Clive Davis, Rock is popular and he got lucky to be in such a great season where most of the idols got recording deals, I think Chris is working very hard to maintain what he does best, he is doing wonderfully and yes he's had lots more air time than Taylor and that might speak volumes but Rock is popular and there is no dening that. I also think that's why Carrie is doing so great not just because shes good but again Country is very popular. Clive is a force in the music business and I think he's got a lot of people in the business afraid of him, look what he's done to Taylor and Kelly C, he can do it to anyone..
Taylor is the best thing to come out of AI as his fan I'm proud to say that and mean it. His fans love him and flock to him and he's loving what he's doing..

The big thing I don't understand about Nigel is why WHY would he tell the American public that they got it wrong when it's the American public that will be watching and voting in the upcoming season? Talk about cutting ones throat...

Okay so my thought is......they didn't have control over him and they hated and still hate it. Think about it. When the other Idols came along, they were all so young and green - Tay had already been there, and done that. He knew who he was musically, and no amount of persuading him into being something other that exactly what he was fell onto deaf ears. They expected Tay to be the same way. To bow to their "superior knowledge". Now, I like Chris. I liked most of the folk who were on season 5. They were all gifted. But witness Chris's inexperiance- they have been able to mold him into the artist they wanted, because he just wanted the money and the glory - to be honest, most wo get into this game do. Tay was for musical integrity, staying true to the man he is. It's part of his charm with me, and I think a majority of his fan base. But because they can't control him, they choose to bury him. Maybe to teach him a lesson, maybe to teach us - who knows? We are all basically sheep, subject to the whim of puppet-masters who yank our strings. The things is Tay cut those strings, and no one likes a toy being taken away- even if they no longer want to play with that toy. So, in order to humble him, they say stuff like this. In addition, it riles enough of Tay's fan base and they will go off half-cocked. We are a pretty volitile bunch, in case you've somehow missed it. So, to re-cap, Nygel is playing us like a fiddle, folks. In wrestling, it's called heat. Positive or negative attention, it's all heat. And heat is what gets you paid. Think about it.
~tyg

Some very good points from everyone regarding this subject. I am guessing that Nigel is basically a wishy-washy type who obviously got lucky with being the producer or whatever he is in business. I do remember when Taylor did that encore of Jailhouse Rock that Nigel was pleased as punch and rocking right along with Taylor.

Another point I agree with is that the Davis group tries to mold their idols to be what they want them to be and Taylor was not having any of that which could be why they are so against him. I do remember that Kelly Clarkson also bucked up against Clive and her last cd is not doing that well. However I do think Kelly's last cd is not as good as her first two were. I know that the Davis group made a big mistake trying to change Bo Bice and his cd did not go over as well as it should have which may account for why his latest cd is not doing so well in the sales department because many probably figure it is like the first one. Of course true Bo fans realize the newest cd is awesome.

As for Chris Daughtry, yes rock is definitely in and he is talented but as a person I think he went for the money angle which turned out well as many love his cd. I however think it all sounds the same and in spite of his sales do not think he even compares to some of the greats of rock.

Needless to say I am glad Taylor stayed true to himself and I just posted an article stating that he is working on a new album and his DVD will also be out next year. Something to definitely look forward to in spite of the negativity of AI and it's affilitates. Thank goodness for Asian Idol who definitely showed Taylor the respect he so deserved.

Oh I so agree the biggest problem that TPTB at AI have is that they could not change Taylor to be WHO they wanted him to be, He knew who he was and he let that fact be known. I also agree that this Soul Patrol are very defensive of Taylor and I so understand that. I am as well, I still think Nigel is a twit and Davis is a Jerk, But without these two there would be no AI and if it ended to ok but if it had never been there would be no Taylor Hicks. I also have a big feeling that tygrille is right on when she said that they are playing us like a fiddle, I guess maybe it's true that even bad press is still press..
Taylor will have the last laugh yet,,, I so believe that...

Oh, there's no question where Nigel and Clive sit on my list, and yeah - I want to protect and defend Tay with my last breath, and will do so. He's my sweetie and that won't change no matter what, so I am right with you all on that one. And I do believe Tay is going to have that last laugh. He's too damn smart not to.
Here's my theory about Chris. Do I think he's talented.? Sure. I mean, he's got appeal, guys, or he wouldn't be doing as well as he is. Is he as gifted as Tay? Not just no, but a resounding thunderous hell no. He's going to fade pretty quick I think, especially his being spoon-fed down our throats as he's been doing. He will over-expose himself and fade from sight a LOT quicker than Tay ever would. Plus, his little ego is so going to get in the way. For me, there are many, many little things about Taylor that make me love him. One is his generosity of spirit and his appreciation of everything he has. Face it people - Taylor has been hungry for his success a long, long time. He worked hard and when the chance to be a part of Idol came up, his friends and family thought he was insane. Maybe he was *g*. But I feel that he used it to launch himself to a comfortable platform, and boy has he. Idol has been very, very good to him. Idol fans have been very good to him. He knows that, and is extremely thankful for it. I am proud of the way he went about winning the show, and equally proud of his level of success he's attained since. And mostly, I am proud of the man he is. You know, a year ago August, it was my supreme privledge and pleasure to meet Brian Less, Zippy Dietrich, Mitch Jones, Sam Gunderson, and Jeff Lopez - LiMBO to just about everybody. They all impressed me with their hearts, their passion, their humbleness and sweetness and I said if at the time that if Tay were anything like these sweet, sweet men (which I was assured he was by all the members of his band over time, and I have seen abundant evidence of his warmth and love for us as well), then we did the right thing. I stand by that. Bri told me once that Tay and LiMBO's goal was to meet and thank each and every member of the Soul Patrol, no matter how long it took. I believe him. And even 30 years from now, long after American Idol is off the air, and I go to a tiny dive bar to see and support Tay and those sweethearts, you can just bet your ass that I'll be there.
~tyg

The Soul Patrol's passion is very clear and I think we are all alike in that manner, I get so tired of hearing how bad Taylor is doing from news paper writers or whomever thinks they have a voice, but I do have to say that that tone seems to be changing some, The last few reports I've read have been positive for Taylor and that is wonderful to hear, I think people are coming to the relization that he's here to stay and that AI is the wrong one for saying the horrid things about Taylor in the first place. It's not just this country that feel that AI wronged Taylor as he has fans all over the world and if good ol Nigel would see that he is bitting off the hand that is feeding him he'd change his story.. The Soul Patrol is a force to behold and so what if in a lot of cases they call us OLD , MIDDLE AGED who cares , we know different and we know what we want for Taylor, the success he's worked so hard for and so long for and it will be his.. AI's rating dropped last year maybe not a lot but that was last year, if he keeps it up and the SP keeps to their word about not watching or voting that will take a bit out of their voting total I believe.
We are many, We are proud, WE ARE TAYLORS FANS...

I loved reading what you said tygrillie about Taylor meeting each and ever Soul Patroler, thrilled me totally.... That means I still have a chance of seeing him up close and personally.. Something I have yet to accomplish..And if it takes 30 years ok, I'll just have to use my cane to walk and turn the hearing aid up to hear but my eyes will be focused on "THE MAN"..

Ha! Yep, that is their goal according to Sweet Memphis, so get reaady - it's coming. I have plans of hiding myself, so I'll leave it to you to give him a great big hug and my thanks. Of course, the guys swear they're going to drag me to him one day. We'll have to see if they have the strength ;). And please - call me tyg or tyggie - eeverybody does and I am quite loving, I promise.
~tyg

Ok tyg it is, easier to remember ha ha..

I've tried to get a meet and greet to really meet Taylor but so far no such luck but then I only managed to get to two of his concerts and I remember them so vividly that it's something I'll never forget, some told me to go to where his bus was at and that he'd meet people there as well, I tried that too ha joke on me, the first one the bus was in a secure area and NO ONE was allowed in there believe me I tired,, The second one the Casino was so hugh and I was alone and surely would still be looking for a way out if I'd gotten off the main course ha..I believe Taylor will meet every one of his Soul Patrol if that's what he has in mind I know he will YOU included...
Oh by the way my name is Sandi

Sandi? Okay - cool. And tyg is much easier than my legal name - Chiana - so I tend to go by that.
I am one of the few who honestly does NOT want to meet that darling boy. I'll tell you why in the Why I Am A Fan thread here in a few minutes, so hang out or come back and see later. Most everybody gets it, but a good majority of my friends also feel that I ought to and that it'd be good for me. *shrugs* We'll see.
And you'll have to go with some of us when we go. They are extremely good at finding that little dickens.
~tyg

mae for my own reasons I won't go into the Chris thing, only to say that although I am not a Rock fan . I've heard Chris on the radio and such and he's got a voice and he's doing great with the Cd sales
and I am happy for him. It's mainly because for 1 1/2 years it's been Taylor fans and Chris fans fighting it out and I really think theres room for both of them in the music world. I'll give Chris and all the idols the respect they deserve because they have all worked hard to get where they are.

Tyg, I read your "Why I'm a Fan" and I do understand where you're coming from, I do think maybe your friends are right, you'll never know for sure until that time comes. And when it's right you'll know it..

Some very interesting info on all of you. I also agree with each of you on your thoughts. Although I never got to see Taylor solo, I did see him on the AI Tour plus got to shake hands with him when it was down to the final 3 during that rehearsal in Hollywood. Something I will always treasure. Taylor is so handsome in person and seemed so sweet and shy which surprised me as he is so outgoing on stage. I just simply adore this man!

:huggy:


By the way tyg, my real name is Crystal, so glad to meet you. As for voting on AI, I did not last year until the final 3 because I wanted Melinda to win but yes the voting was down as was the viewership. I will continue to watch as I love discovering new talent and doing my re-caps but I think AI will soon be a thing of the past as I believe Simon is quitting once his latest contract is up. Meanwhile, you have to give credit to this show which is actually a concept of Simon Fuller for bringing us some great talent over the years.

Great post Crystal, I didn't watch AI until just before the finale of Season 4 and then most likely wouldn't have watched season 5 had I not seen and heart Taylors audition, Now I have to watch, I did watch all of Season 6 but didn't vote but afew times and that was for Blake.. No reason really except he was different and that one thing made Taylor stand out so thought why not..

I think Simon said he was not renewing his contract but is signed for the next 3 years so it should go until season 10 anyway, with luck that is.. It is a good show and honestly without the three judges they have right now it wouldn't be the same.

I love reading your recaps by the way, you are so good at it and know that if I miss a show I'll still know what went on from you...
Great job...
sandi

Crystal -
I met Melinda! I live here, an hour out of Nashville, so when she had her "homecoming", she and Bucky were going to be performing for a morning show here and I attended it. The things we do for our Idols, lol.
Mae -
I can't say I am too enamoured of Chris's sound. Very been there done that for me. And I've yet to buy Chris's album - it doesn't talk to me the way some of the others have. Of course, I got several copies of Tay and LiMBO's albums, but I have also picked up Bucky's, Paris's, and Manisa's. I expect I'll get Kellie's and Elliott's for Christmas in my stocking, if I can find them. I'm hoping that somebody can find a copy of LiMBO's DVD as well - I haven't been able to afford buying it and now it's like the holy grail or something, lol! But I tell you honestly - I see your point. But there IS room for everybody. This is why we have so many genres of music - to give everybody the chance to shine.
~tyg

I read this on another board and thought sense we've discussed the antics of Nigel I'd bring it over here and show ya all I think she talks for the most of the Soul Patrol and beyond. I truly hope that he someone gets this letter so wonderfully written..
Sandi

Found this Open Letter to Nigel Lythgoe, and I hope he reads it. People are getting fed up with his dissing of Taylor.


December 17, 2007


Dear Mr. Lythgoe:

Your comment that “America maybe made a mistake with Taylor Hicks", as quoted by Oscar Dahl, BuddyTV Senior Writer, gave me pause for thought – and more. In light of your comment, I must wonder how far the Beatles, prior to their debut on The Ed Sullivan Show, may have faired beyond the initial audition stage of Idol. Unpolished, raw from the bar scene of Liverpool, and imbued with talent and spirit that bowed heavily to an art form created by African-Americans (yes, Mr. Lythgoe, do your research), this most seminal of groups would never have entered the hearts of the American public had you judged them by the same standards as you continue to judge the undisputed winner of the fifth season of American Idol. For Taylor Hicks possesses these self-same qualities.

Taylor Hicks was the people’s choice. The majority of the more than 63 million votes cast that evening in May of 2006 weighed in his favor, no one else’s. I was one of the majority who had voted for him. Let me assure you that season five of your show was the only one that I had followed with regularity, and the only one in which I had voted, due solely to the talent, integrity, good humor, and unflagging courage of Taylor Hicks.

What your seemingly offhand comment infers is that very premise of American Idol is a sham. By insisting that Taylor did not deserve to win, you state that America did not have a right to vote him in, and this negates the nature of your program. American Idol was configured, or so it has been peddled, as a format and a forum whereby the public chooses the winner after a months-long, rigorous contest in which contenders perform to your standards: your genres and the ways in which you define those genres. The contestants are held beneath the merciless microscope of the media, and trust me; we examined them in great detail, weighing our choices very carefully. The show was designed to create audience buy-in, but I am no longer buying. You fault the very design of your creation, or at least, your investment. And in so doing, you have insulted every American who has cast a vote in every season your program has aired. This is one American who is not taking your insult lightly, and I am not alone.

I am a professional woman well-established in her career. I possess a disposable income and am judicious in my choice of products and services, including my entertainment. I also possess opinions informed by my life experiences, which are valid, and I choose to exercise these opinions. I will no longer buy in to your program; I will no longer watch American Idol. Considering the depth of your insult against the intelligence, taste, and rights of your American viewers, I have to wonder how many of us now will refuse to tune into your program and in so doing, cease to placate, feed, or support your sponsors – and we know how very hungry those sponsors are.

For the record, it was you who got it wrong, not America. I have followed Taylor Hicks since before his win; I have purchased his two independently produced albums as well as the one flying under the label of J Records. I have seen Taylor perform live no less than eleven times, and have traveled to see him, twice across the country. This is the first and last time that I invest so heavily in an artist, as there will never again, in my opinion, be another Taylor Hicks. When I say that I am but one of a large group of fans, you will have to take my word for it – for I have seen the houses packed, each and every one of those eleven times, by Taylor.

Success cannot always be measured in terms of dollars or units sold, particularly when one’s “units”, such as Taylor’s, were never promoted on American radio. For what I have witnessed of Taylor Hicks both on and off the stage – yes, I have met him several times – he is a humble, extremely talented, highly industrious, compassionate man who takes his music very seriously and who respects the people who follow him. In his name, many thousands of dollars have been raised for worthy children’s charities – American children. This is not posturing on Taylor’s part; I have seen him do things that I myself would not have the stomach for.

In closing, Mr. Lythgoe, I thank you for opening my eyes, for I will not be watching American Idol this coming season or any other. I will not be a witness to the products that your sponsors promote. Instead, I will be using my time to dispose of my income as I see fit: planning more trips to see Taylor Hicks in his next concert tour and of course, joining the thousands of other people who choose to dispose of their own hard-earned American dollars in the same manner.

Most sincerely,


Kathleen Felleca of New Jersey

http://myidol.americanidol.com/blogs/harpboy

Can I marry this woman? Spot on!!!!!
~tyg

wonderful isn't it, I sure wish I knew her I'd love to shake her hand..

I totally agree with all the points made here. Taylor has a talent that needs expressing the right way. All of his true fans are going to support him in every musical venture he does. Simon, Nigel and Clive Davis can stick it because Taylor is here to stay. His music is unique and wonderful and well worth listening to. The only reason I like Daughtry is because he reminds me so much of my son-in-law. Nigel and Clive need to another look at the talent out there and see what an impact singer/songwriters like Taylor are doing for the music business.

Wow, great letter from Kathleen Felleca. I am hoping that this letter is given to Mr. Lythgoe and gives him something to ponder by making his rash statement. Great job Kathleen, you go girl!

Sandi for posting this. Totally awesome!

thank God for Taylor fans like you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!