Music currently populating radio stations is heavily laced with layers upon layers of auto tune, an audio processing device that measures and alters the pitch in vocal and instrumental music recordings. Theoretically speaking, anybody with access to a computer can alter their voice and make a hit song. The ability to do this with ease has resulted in the fabrication of artists who can’t sing or create music. This raises the question: does an artist need to perform well live to be considered a good artist?
An artist is someone who can create some form of art, which in this case, refers to creating and performing music. There are various types of artists within the music industry, some create melodies for purchase, others write and perform their own pieces, while the vast majority perform tunes composed by songwriters other than themselves.
This is where the majority of fabricated artists begin popping up, who do not take part in the production of the material they release and thus do not perform well live. If the artist in question does not devise some significant component of the songs they perform, such as the beat or lyrics, they must be able to perform live in order compensate for lack of involvement in the development of the song.
On the other hand, there are those who do not perform live but still create their own material and are quality artists. To be considered a good artist doesn’t necessarily mean one needs to be able to perform the songs they compose. Creating the elements of a song from scratch is difficult and those who are able to do so for the pleasure of the masses should be applauded.
That being said, some artists write and perform their own material. This is one instance in which the artist’s ability to perform live is critical.
Being able to give a live show is crucial for artists who make it part of their career. If an artist releases music with the intent of touring, in order to be considered a good artist they must be able to perform in person.
The next question that comes into play is what is considered to be a high quality performance? The first requirement to be fulfilled is the ability to sing well throughout the duration of the show, followed by the ability to entertain crowds. Without the ability to entertain live, the performer can easily lose the interest of the audience.
Other components to live shows include the artist’s ability to engage their audience through interactive sections of the show and through their ability to create an environment that welcomes the members in attendance.
Of the various types of artists in the industry, it is important for the majority to be able to perform live. So when contemplating attending a show for an artist, maybe research their capabilities before spending your money.
Photo courtesy of Michael Song
