Lead Singers Who Are An "Acquired Taste"

[@ronalaurence4105]

This video scared me. It made me think that you opened a portal to my mind and pulled out the names of the seven singers that I think are acquired tastes, even if I personally have no problem listening to them. You and I are on the same page when it comes to the fresh and interesting topic that you picked for this video. Like Jim Dandy Mangrum, Geddy Lee and Brian Johnson’s respective voices, I don’t think any of the “acquired taste” singers mentioned take away from the music. Their voices would not stop me from listening to their respective bands. Like you and perhaps a majority of long time AC/DC fans, I think that Bon Scott’s vocals are superior to those of Brian Johnson. But, as you said, the band blew up when Brian replaced Bon. His less-than-stellar vocals somehow work well with the music. Though Bob Dylan and Neil Young (for much of his career) are not lead singers of a band, I would say that they are not good singers but perfect vocalists for the songs they write. Many would say that they are acquired tastes, even those who love their music. Fun fact: When I was in college, I blasted the music of Bob Dylan and Neil Young every single day when I was a freshman and a sophomore. The two persons who lived in the dorm room next to mine always asked me to either turn down the volume or play other artists who don’t give them headaches. Individual taste is what it is - acquired or otherwise.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Lol - that's amazing - and in college no less. I thought it was a "requirement" for 70's era college students to love Dylan and Neil Young. Shocker to me. Both great choices though for me I love Dylan's voice(s) and Neil Young. In fact Dylan is so fascinating to me because his voice/vocals change dramatically - sometimes from album to album. But yea - unique and an "acquired taste" understandably.

[@nealtircuit9373]

No surprise, another great video. Possibly the first time a conversation I had in the comments inspired a video. You have convinced me to go ahead and get the Complete Raunch 'N' Roll Live. One singer I would add is Neil Young.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks so much - really appreciate it. Hope you enjoy Complete Raunch 'N" Roll Live. It's "live". Raw '70's live rock. Neil Young is a great addition to the list. I'm a big fan but along with Dylan, can definitely be an acquired taste. Best, Alan

[@rickrockzyootoob]

LOL -- I've never even heard of Black Oak Arkansas or the Good Rats, but I'm in agreement with how some might think the others might be an acquired taste, but even though I don't have any of their albums, I actually do like Geddy Lee and Jon Anderson when I hear them. But then again, if you heard ME sing, you might think I was an acquired taste, too -- or worse! 😛 Brian Johnson and Kate I can't listen to, though Kate is highly respected for her musical creativity. Ones to possibly add to your list, though, are Bob Dylan, Bryan Adams, and Elvis. For some, it can be hard to listen to a whole album of them singing! Great video, though. It's awesome to see your collection!

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks so much. Some others have said that like everyone is an acquired taste in a way. I guess that's true, but of course I was focussing on people with really potentially "difficult" voices, in my opinion - like Geddy Lee, Jon Anderson, Kate Bush etc. Dylan is a good choice as well, though I love his voice and his voice actually can change dramatically from album to album. Bryan Adams is a good choice as well. I can see that. Thanks so much.

[@markspooner1224]

Great idea for a video, some vocalists take a bit of an effort to get used to but I can't ever see myself acquiring a taste for Geddy Lee's voice.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks Mark - yea - decades in, I still haven't acquired a taste for his vocals either.

[@springinfialta106]

Jello Biafra of The Dead Kennedys is definitely an acquired taste.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Great one - I actually don't have any of their albums - I could not acquire that taste..lol. Thanks so much.

[@RichardThompson-gb8pn]

Black Oak Arkansas and Jim Dandy played near me in August 1984 just two weeks before I got married. The last band I saw as a single man. Still love them, but vocals an acquired taste .... yeah! 😂 Thought your choices were spot on!

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks so much. Interesting you saw them in 1984. I'm sure a very different band by that time, but probably same old Jim Dandy Mangrum. Fun way to go out of single life. Cool story. Thanks.

[@Bo-hb3eo]

Hey Alan. When I came across your video I was listening to my import version of AC/DC “High Voltage” and I knew you would mention them. Loved Bon Scott. Very fortunate to have seen them with Bon 3 times. I like “Back in Black” but I just couldn’t get with Brian Johnson and his voice. Thanks for the video. You know on this import the song “Stick Around” is a song some may not know…man I think it’s really good.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks so much - lucky you - so cool you saw AC/DC with Bon Scott - I don't know anyone personally who did. That's awesome. I don't know the song "Stick Around" - will check it out. Of course not on my version of High Voltage. Thanks for the song referral. Best, Alan

[@Bo-hb3eo]

@ Actually the whole album. It’s totally different from the American version.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@Bo-hb3eo Yea - I got to get that - never ever see it in the wild.

[@Bo-hb3eo]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow good luck. I saw one on eBay $95 for a CD. I was fortunate enough I don’t know why but I picked it up in 1977 when I was 19 years old. About eight dollars. I knew it was different, fortunately I held onto it. I have the vinyl, most of those are outrageous $ wise. One more thing. I hate to bother you… Have you ever heard of Shawn Mullins? I am totally immersed in his stuff. We recently saw him live. That was amazing! If there was anybody in this world I would recommend to you if you have not heard of him…that would be the one.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@Bo-hb3eo Love stories like yours when you get a rare album decades ago at the going price at that time, and now super duper rare and worth a fortune. So cool. As for Shawn Mullins - thanks for the recommendation. From other recommendations this year I picked up Ron Sexsmith who I'm loving and I just bought a ton of John Prine who I'll investigate early next year. I'm definitely open to Mullins so now on my lookout list. Thanks so much.

[@pkmcburroughs]

I fell in love with Jon Anderson's vocals for the same reason I fell in love with Geddy Lee's--they both have this strange, otherworldly quality to them that teenage me was really drawn to.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Great description - "strange, otherworldly quality". Definitely. For me even more so with Jon Anderson because Yes' music was so otherworldly with the great Roger Dean graphics - a complete otherworldly package. Thanks for your great description. Best, Alan

[@KansasRocker]

Great choices and I am with you on ONJ. Voice of an angel. ❤

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Absolutely fantastic - thanks so much.

[@dennislind8411]

You're spot on with Geddy Lee. Never could get past his vocals, and I'm Canadian! Never liked Axl Rose, David Lee Roth, both vocalists with AC/DC, and David Byron with Uriah Heep. Too bad about Heep because I love their musicality. Your right about Kate Bush. An acquired taste for sure, but so, so brilliant.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I'm a Uriah Heep fan, but yea that's also a great choice. David Byron...especially when hitting those high notes - yea that can be an acquired taste for sure.

[@jimalaimo8467]

Nick Cave is unique and dark. Peter Steele of Type O Negative is deep and dark. My acquired taste singers. I'm glad that you listened to Black Oak today!

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Nick Cave is a work in progress for me - but I'm enjoying him....slowly. Good addition to the list. I've never heard Type O Negative (though I know their name) so I can't comment on that one. Thanks so much.

[@andrewsuppa7468]

WNEW used to play a Good Rats song . I remember liking it. But I don't remember which one it was.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I know Tasty used to get a good amount of play - biographical jazzy kind of "cute" song. Taking It To Detroit / Does It Make You Feel Good was always a fantastic opener and they used to play that as well. A local radio station used to use the song "Don't Hate The Ones Who Bring You Rock & Roll" as a radio promo. another cool fun track. They did get radio play in the tri-state area including lots of concert simulcasts.

[@russellcampbell3274]

Great video, Alan. I saw Black Oak Arkansas supporting Black Sabbath in Glasgow in 1974. I had never heard of them but left the concert thinking this was the best band in the world with the best lead singer. As soon as I could I bought a mid-priced B.O.A. compilation. Gave it away! Tells you a lot! A band I quite like is the Strawbs. However, I find that Dave Cousins is too restrained and polite in his singing and starts to annoy me after a few tracks. I hate to say this as he is not in the best of health and by all accounts is one of the nicest guys you could meet.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Russell - that's an awesome story. I can believe it. BOA must've been an incredible sight to witness...including the washboard, but listening to them at home - yea - not easy. Big laugh on my end from this comment. Dave Cousins is a fantastic mention too. I like the Strawbs, but EXACTLY - in relatively smaller doses - definitely an acquired taste. Best, Alan

[@jasonpp1973]

I would add Donald Fagen from Steely Dan, not a great voice but works great with SD. Also, Dennis DeYoung of Styx.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I'm not a huge Dennis DeYoung fan and I like Fagen's voice - perfect as you said with Steely Dan - but yea I can see some people having issues with it. Fagen's voice is so different. Thanks again Jason.

[@jasonpp1973]

@TheAlanRosenbergShow I do like the Styx album The Grand Illusion tho.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@jasonpp1973 I actually saw that tour - at a small venue on Long Island called the Suffolk Forum (Commack Arena). A band called Starz opened up for them. They were amazing. Unfortunately for me, after Grand Illusion, Styx kind of went downhill for me, as they kept getting bigger. Grand Illusion still is a fantastic album IMHO and glad you agree.

[@midnightrambler7716]

I LOVE Donald Fagen. Bought every single Steely Dan album as they came out. My wife hates him. And most women I’ve known don’t particularly like him. I have found that for Geddy Lee and Neil Young too. When I lived at home growing up, I listened to a lot of Neil Young and my sister and mother couldn’t stand him. And Rush has always been more popular with males than females. I grew up in Toronto which is coincidentally where both Neil Young and Geddy Lee were born. Maybe it’s something in the water! 😆

[@midnightrambler7716]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow You lose me at Bon Scott. I can’t stand him. Much prefer Brian Johnson. Scott to me always made me want to clear my throat because he sounded like something was stuck in it. And Axl Rose. Can’t stand him either. Never could.

[@wizardwandmusic6457]

I Had to acquire a taste for Neil Young’s Voice, always liked the music & now I like both & almost every album. ✌️

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Yea - I can definitely understand that. His catalog is so huge and varied in quality but he's amongst the very best when he's really on form.

[@mofost1]

I’ve really gotten into sweets desolation album & it’s one of the best front to back albums

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I never had that album though I know it. Great album cover by the way on it. I first tried a Sweet compilation album years and years ago - they didn't do much for me. Certainly had their hits and fans in their time though. I might still have the 45's of Little Willy and Love Is Like Oxygen - big hits. Also remember Fox On The Run and Ballroom Blitz - good poppy 70's rock.

[@mofost1]

@ that’s what I thought too but my old man kept saying I should check the whole album & I fell in love, maybe a month ago. Ballroom, ac/dc, I wanna be committed…you should give it another looky loo, I’ve gotten into April wine hardcore too especially their album with carry on & could’ve been a beeeeaaatch(or lady)

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@mofost1 I'm a fan of April Wine too - good band. A shame Myles passed away. I never saw them live in person - but yea a good solid band with lots of good albums and great songs.

[@mofost1]

@ I saw them with Boston or Kansas in STL2nd best concert I’ve ever been to, #1 was black crowes at a pretty small place here that is not any longer, both in 96

[@SteveSmith-md1fl]

David Surkamp from Pavlov's Dog is definitely on the list.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Someone else mentioned them - wow - what a fabulous addition to the list. I actually bought their album - had a great album cover....Phew - i couldn't bear his lead vocals and that album did not last long in my collection. GREAT addition - perfect.

[@CoreyLeland]

Bob Dylan? Probably if you don't like his voice you never acquire the taste for it....Good idea for a video Alan. Happiness and Peace.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks so much - personally I love Dylan's voice(s). Plural because his vocals can be completely different from album to album - really changes dramatically - but yea I think many many will agree with you - at least for that stereotypical Dylan voice. But yea I love Dylan. Best, Alan

[@MortenAastad]

Interesting takes on those. Funny, never thought of Kate Bush in those terms. Always just really loved her. Not listened as much as I should last decade or so, last woman I stupidly fell for loved Kate Bush and did a good karaoke rendition of one of songs. So kind of failed to detatch Kate from that whole... thing. Keep up the great work Alan.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks as always Morten. Karaoke Kate Bush - that's pretty cool. Gotta say I'd fall for someone doing that too.

[@MortenAastad]

@ Yeah, fell hard, did not go well, never did that again. Yeah, very good rendition she did.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@MortenAastad Sorry didn't go well. She had taste though....Kate Bush kareoke. You'd never ever see that here in the States. But I'd love it.

[@deeg8849]

All of mine are acquired taste that I really enjoy (at one time I didn’t like) Nico (solo and VU). Haunting Billie Holliday. Magic Margot Timmons (Cowboy Junkies) on many tunes still annoying but on those select few - yes Dr John- soulful Eileen Jewel - I believe ever lyric she sings Ronnie Lane (faces and solo). Magic Marriane Faithful - I could listen for days (and have) Nina Simone - so soulful Valerie June - southern stew If ya haven’t noticed, it’s top heavy of women. Most people when you think female singers go to the greats like Aretha, etc, but find the unique ones more fascinating and compelling to listen to. These ladies and I just connect. Most when I talk about them just think I’m weird, but oh well

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Really cool choices here. Nico - wow that's a good one. So mechanical and cold - though works great on that first Velvets album to me. Beyond that, not so much. Marianne Faithfull is another great example. I'm a big fan. How she went from that sweet and lovely 60's voice to the Broken English post rawness is a fascinating journey and yea definitely an acquired taste. Great choices here - thanks.

[@painless465]

Deer Park’s very own Marcello brothers! I think Peppi is a great singer. One is Tom Verlaine from Television, a band I love. Peter Hamill from Van Der Graff Generator. Close your eyes and he sounds like Johnny Rotten, who was a big fan of VDGG

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Oh yea - Peter Hamill is a GREAT choice. In fact, I've had difficulty over the decades getting into Van Der Graff Generator and I've tried. Tough listen. Yea Tom Verlaine with Television - quirky band, but I'm a good fan of theirs. I also love Peppi's voice, but......many don't...lol. I miss him and The Good Rats so much. A real favorite of mine. Best, Alan

[@Carl-x8y3c]

Hi Alan. I have never heard of the Good Rats. I will check them out on youtube. I was listening to Tom Waits and his album Frank's Wild Years. I think his vocal style is an acquired taste. Tom is,one of my favorite singers. I agree with you on Kate Bush. Her squeaky vocals is definitely an acquired taste. I was listening to her best of album The Whole Story yesterday. My favorite song of hers is Babooshka from. 1980.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Tom Waits is an amazing choice. So much so that I have difficulty with Tom Waits. I find him a very tough listen vocally - perfect choice. I also love Babooshka. I hope you enjoy the Good Rats - a pride of Long Island - Their typically opener live was Taking It To Detroit into Does It Make You Feel Good - killer opener - check that out. If you don't like that...they may not be for you - but they have a ton of great stuff. Best, Alan

[@casablanca2745]

I try I try I try but can’t get into Rush. Geddy sounds like a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. Saw Black Oak at age 16 in 73 opening for Humble Pie and Leon Russel (I think). Took me a while to get into Led Zep with Plant but love them now and saw him with Allison Kraus this past summer at Outlaw Fest. Keep em comin Alan!

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks so much. Wow what a cool classic 70's show you saw - Black Oak Arkansas and Humble Pie. - talk about a raw rocking show. amazing I'm sure. Plant will be coming up in a video I think I'm gonna do. Best, Alan

[@GrapeWallsOfIre]

I would add Peter Hammill of Van der Graaf Generator. As much as I love that band, and his solo work, it took years to "get it".

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

That's definitely one I'm still working on with little luck - also been working on Gentle Giant for years (and have like 6 of their albums in my backlog) but I'm way more warming to them. You're right about Peter Hammill. Not easy listening..lol

[@davidkunzli680]

That was a great fall down!!!! Geddy Lee gets on my last nerve. So does that Steve Perry.....Of course, you left out the greatest acquired voice of all.......Yoko Ono. I will actually listen to her. The greatest Japanese youlder of all time. Jim Dandy to the rescue😂😂

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

That was an epic fall wasn't it...lol. And I kept my cool....You still noticed it...of course. Steve Perry - oh that's a great choice. Personally he's almost up there with Geddy Lee for me. Yoko Ono - that's another great choice. I don't have any of her solo albums, but I guess Double Fantasy would've fit. Nice one David.

[@eliberdinner4808]

Tim Armstrong from the punk band Rancid is an acquired taste, I have to be in the right mood to put on a whole album. Also Shane Macgowan of The Pogues, the ultimate slurring Irish crooner and shouter.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I don't know Rancid (know of them but not their music), so can't really comment on them. But Shane MacGowan - yea that's a great choice. Excellent - thanks.

[@DerekPugh-uj4yd]

Many people have issues with Dylan and Petty. And for some strange reason, a lot of people can't stand The Boss (they think he's a terrible singer!). Personally, even though i like these guys, i would add Marc Bolan and David Surkamp to the acquired taste list. The only singers i can't stand are from the Scorpions and Iron Maiden. 🤢

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I'm not a fan of Iron Maiden at all. Just not my kind of music....Scorpions as well for me. David Surkamp is a fantastic example. I'm a moderate fan of Bolan and T-Rex.

[@calummcgregor3662]

Another interesting video .... good picks ... agree with those who commented re David Surkamp [awesome] etc ... mulled this over for a few days ... here are some other suggestions of "acquired taste" [apologies to those folks who have mentioned some of these already] ... some may / may not be considered to be contentious ... most of these I actually like a lot as artists ... but not necessarily for their vocal abilities ... Dean Friedman [great songs though] David Sylvian [Japan] Joe Walsh [he’s better on Guitar] Latter day Ian Anderson, and later Jethro tull live performances - although gig at Music Hall in May this year was just great Dan McCafferty [who provided the blue-print for Axl Rose] ... massive catalogue .... many duds .... but also a lot of nuggets in there [especially No Mean City through Fool Circle ere ... and selections from rest of 1980's] John Mayall [not a wonderful singer but great band leader ... and, boy, can he spot a guitar player] Bryan Ferry Bette Midler [depends on song choice] Elvis Costello [voice was always a challenge for me] Bruce Dickinson / Rob Halford can be wearing whereas Geoff Tate is fine! Captain Beefheart Christopher Cross, Michael Mcdonald may be too “sweet” for some [but great songs / production / playing] .... going to see Christopher Cross supporting Toto in glasgow next year ... should be a great night Gary Moore [better on Guitar ... not a singer] Corinne Bailey Rae Macy Gray [bit squeaky] Dave Matthews Johnny Winter [better on Guitar] Edgar Winter Graham Parker [but a superb artist] Al Stewart [but a superb artist] Finley Quaye Grace Slick Jerry Garcia John Martyn may be a bit “mumbly” for some [but a superb artist with a wonderous catalogue … enigmatic live] Judie Tzuke [unusual voice … but some awesome tracks[ Judy Garland Keith Richards … can sometimes hit the right notes Ronnie Wood … can sometimes hit the right notes Kevin Coyne Ray Davies [honestly - something does not gel for me] Kris Kristofferson [but superb songwriter] Kylie Minogue [squeaky, but fun … and an entertainer] Lemmy [but a character] Levon Helm [needs to be “blended”] Bob Cately [latter day Magnum … a case where auto-tuning would be handy] Steve Hogarth [Marillion] … works fine for me, but not everybosy Martin Carthy [legendary UK folkie …. Scratchy guitar work, earthy vocals … influence can’t be under-estimated … but can be a challenging listen] Martin Turner [from the stellar Wishbone Ash … but, latter day, can sometimes struggle vocally … still an awesome night out though] Bernie Shaw [Uriah Heep] Sammy Hagar [can be screechy] Bernie Marsden [better guitar player … awesome player in his Whitesnake days] Murray Head [got some wonderful tunes though] Nancy Wilson [I love ann’s playing … and Roadcase Royale was a superb album … but others did the heavy lifting on vocals] Nell Bryden … I like Nell a lot … but she can be screechy Latter day Peter Green … voice lost it’s energy [understandably given his life challenges] Randy Newman … superb songwriter with wonderful lyrics, got to see live - awesome … but his voice might grate for some Kevin Cronin … best in small doses Richard Wright … bit light-weight … but totally integral to Pick Floyd … Wet Dream album “works” though Rickie Lee Jones … best in small doses Roger Hodgson … best when mixed up with roger Davies offering Roy Harper … interesting approach … actually “works” if seen live Ry Cooder … superb on guitar though Sally Oldfield [Mike’s sister] Sam Baker [brilliant Americana, start with the track Broken Fingers ... back story is compelling ... great live act ... Ble Lamp, Aberdeen] Sam Smith [not for me … had to endure him at Madison Square Gardens … first night on vacation from Scotland … got out-voted by family ‘cause I said we should go see U2 the following night!] Siouxsie Sue Richard Jobson [The Skids] John Lydon … iconic approach Morrissey …. His vocals never did it for me … whereas Johnny Marr’s playing style [influenced by Rory Gallagher no less[ did Steve Hackett … I like his vocals … some think they are light-weight ... have the complete catalogue on CD, many signed - direct from his web-site Steve Howe … not a singer Steve Hillage… not a singer Julian Cope Tim Buckley [great songs though] Tom Waits … acquired taste Carol Decker … great tunes though Peter Hammill… acquired taste Early Van Morrison … used to put me off … vocals evolved to superb standard through time, for me Vashti Bunyan … never made it through an album yet Vicky Beeching [write great Christian songs but vocals are not for everyone] Walter Becker … works for me …. But not everybody Yoko Ono … approach with caution ! CMcG Aberdeen Scotland

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Ok - so you win the award for best comment and really putting a lot of work into this. Probably even more than me...lol. Interesting topic because there's so many unique vocalists but for me I acquired a taste for them immediately. I mean you want an original sound, so in a way, they're all kind of original and acquired tastes. So I focused (and you nailed a lot here) vocalists that I really can't bear or not more than in small doses. So from your choices - those I can't bear (haven't acquired the taste...as of yet): Yoko Ono, Peter Hammill, Tom Waits, Dave Matthews, Michael McDonald (remember the scenes in 40 Year Old Virgin - that's how I react to McDonald..lol), Captain Beefheart, Rob Halford, Bruce Dickinson, Dan McCafferty (although their version of Love Hurts is my all time favorite version of that song...so go figure). There's also many on your list I'm not familiar with at all: Vicky Beeching, Carol Decker, Richard Jobson, Siouxsie Soux, Sam Smith, Sam Baker, Sally Oldfield, Neil Bryden, Murray Head, Bernie Marsden, Martin Carthy, Finley Quaye, Corinne Baily Rae, Dean Friedman, David Sylvain. Now I've heard of almost all of these, but never actually heard them. Fun going through this - thanks as always.

[@Bigchet1223]

What about motorhead?

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Excellent choice. I didn't include because honestly I'm not a fan though of course I appreciate them and Lemmy's career. But musically they're not for me. Nice mention though. Thanks.

[@andrewhoag6167]

The two that come to mind are Bjork and Roger Chapman of Family. I think Family had a real chance to break big, but Chapman's singing alienated as many potential mainstream listeners as it attracted. For a while, they were regarded very highly, at least in the UK. Bjork and Kate Bush (though I respect her songwriting) are two I've always thought of as "sound effect" vocals. I went to college (1979-83) with a lot of Islanders, and, yeah, they all dug the Good Rats.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I'm with you on Roger Chapman and Family - I've been struggling with a 2 CD compilation in my backlog for like 2 years. They're just not for me and like you said it's Chapman's vocals largely. I've never had a Bjork album - not really my thing. Good description of Bjork and Bush - sound effect vocals - that's a good one... good description. Thanks.

[@tomhemlock]

Firstly, Jon Anderson for me is not an acquired taste. Can’t believe people have him in that category! Dave Cousins from the Strawbs would be an acquired taste. Of course Rick Wakeman was in their early lineup of the Strawbs. Also still looking for the Robin Trower live cd ‘Bridge of Sighs’ 🤔 I believe it was maybe recorded at WNEW back in the day? I remember the sound quality was very good. My friend had the cd so will see if it turns up and let you know, or maybe I dreamt it😅

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I do get that Jon Anderson comment a lot and he does have that "high" voice, so I can understand it for some people - but yea Dave Cousins - yea that's an unusual acquired taste voice - I like it actually. Never heard of this Bridge Of Sighs live album. Best, alan

[@Wayner71]

Great topic. Like you, I have never been able to get into Rush due to Geddy Lee's vocals. His high-pitched squeal reminds me of that guy in Pavlov's Dog, David Surkamp. I don't mind a high-register but vocals like those are just too high for my tastes. I also agree with you about AC/DC. I only play the Bon Scott era as Johnson's vocals sound like a hundred other journeyman singers. Scott was unique. Cheers.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Cheers back - thanks so much. Great reference regarding Pavlov's Dog. I bought that album back in the day - listened to it once and couldn't take the vocals at all - great comparison to Geddy Lee. Dumped that album pretty quick. Thanks again.

[@carlwmpylu]

Fun video. Here are a few that I've never acquired the taste for: . Robert Plant . Morrissey . John Lydon . David Lee Roth . Mark E, Smith . Vince Neil . Bjork . Peter Hammill . Lou Reed . Joni Mitchell A few that I was non-plussed by on first acquaintance but came to really appreciate later: . Neil Young . Bob Dylan . Geddy Lee (not so much the Seventies but when he reined it in later, I thought he developed into a great singer) . Blackie Lawless . Toyah . David Surkamp . Bruce Dickenson . David Sylvian . Ric Ocasek . Tom Petty

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Interesting lists - interesting to see you warmed to Surkamp and Pavlov's Dog - that's a tough one...lol. Perhaps surprising about Plant. I love Joni and Lou Reed but I can see them being an acquired taste - not just vocally but musically as well. Great lists - thanks for sharing.

[@mofost1]

Rush’s first & second albums that were like real rock are great then they get nerdy

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

You were ahead of your time getting those first two albums first. Pretty much for big deep Rush fans. They were a cult band at best back then.

[@ThomasDaubert-p9s]

Robert Smith of the Cure and Mark Hollis of Talk Talk

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Great choices - I've never been a fan of The Cure and don't have any of their albums. Same with Talk Talk. But yea - I dislike The Cure - great choices.

[@ThomasDaubert-p9s]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Huge fan of both. Talk Talk had to grow on me, but now I listen to them a lot. Have you ever done a list of underrated bands? I'm not sure if you had.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@ThomasDaubert-p9s Talk Talk was big in my college days - catchy stuff - underrated bands - that's a good one. Thanks Thomas.

[@stephenbrown4211]

First one I thought was Jim Dandy. A mate had one of BOA albums and when I heard his voice said Jim sounds like a chainsaw going through a brick wall. Loved it though Mark Knopfler is another. A guy who writes songs to suit his voice.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

A chainsaw through a brick wall - that's awesome. lol. Or a guy who gargles with moonshine and swallows razor blades afterward. I actually love Mark Knopfler but a perfect description by you. Not really a great singer but sure writes songs to suit his limited voice. Absolutely. Thanks so much.

[@georgemathie8123]

Definitely a fun topic and yes a lot of these vocalists are definitely an acquired taste and the obvious ones are Geddy Lee from Rush and Jon Anderson from Yes but a few more are Burke Shelley from budgie, phil judd ftom split enz, Schnell fenster and more, George young ftom flash and the pan thats the eldest brother of Malcolm and Angus young and eric Woolfson from Alan Parsons project

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks. Some interesting deep additions. I never had any Budgie (but loved their album covers). I'm a big Crowded House fan but Split Enz largely passed me by beyond the big hit. Know of Flash And The Pan but never had an album. Interesting additions - thanks again.

[@georgemathie8123]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow budgie is well worth exploring it's a great combination of hard and progressive rock and split enz's 1975 debut is the one with Phil Judd and this is before Neil Finn joined the band it's called mental notes and my best description for this album is peter Gabriel era genesis but.way more eccentric check it out if that's your bag

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@georgemathie8123 Thanks - I heard Budgie back in the day - just one album - wasn't too melodic and a bit jazzy progressive. Perhaps I'd warm to it better now. Thanks.

[@PhilippeDumont73]

I have the exact same relation with Rush, I really like them, but in small dose, but I think that from Permanent Waves and Moving Pictures up to the last one is voice his more "tolerable" for me 🤣 But on their earlier records .... ouffff ... ahah

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I can understand that. production on the albums better and his voice probably not as grating, plus you get more used to it. Like you said, I can only take really in small doses. Thanks.

[@joejenkins3595]

I agree with you on all of those except Jon Anderson. Liked him from the get go also. I would say Tom Waits is an acquired taste. Great songwriter but can only listen in small doses.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I'm so with you on Tom Waits - I haven't been able to get thru an album. Exactly like you said - great songwriter - but phew I find him a very tough and so far not very pleasurable experience. A work in progress for me.

[@douglasweston126]

Well Alan - I think you missed surely the most obvious singer !! AND that is Roger Chapman from the English band Family. One of my favourite bands, and Rogers vocals are most surely different. I loved them, but others ?? Cya Doug

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Great choice Doug. Missed him because....I'm in the "others" category. The 2CD Family compilation I have is still in my backlog for almost 2 years - I have trouble getting through it and it's probably not gonna make it in to my collection. I've tried....but Roger....is not for me....it seems. Great choice though..

[@stevecloutier8673]

I'd add Tom Waits. With Geddy, I'm like you with Anderson. Geddy was never an acquired taste for me, but I totally get why he is for others.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Yea Tom Waits is a fantastic choice - he really is an acquired taste...that I haven't really acquired yet. And I've tried.

[@stevecloutier8673]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow I acquired it...eventually.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@stevecloutier8673 ...maybe I'll get their one day Steve....he's not an easy listen...but yea a great songwriter - I do have some great "covers" of his songs.

[@tarrtruck2869]

The only singer I cannot stand at any level is Geddy Lee of Rush. I'm talking fingernails on a chalkboard. I went to a Rush concert in 1980 only because I got a free ticket through a friend and halfway through the the show I had to leave my seat and walk around, I just couldn't take it. The only similar experience like that I had was Derek Shulman of Gentle Giant, also on a free ticket.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

That's a crazy story. That's bad. And they're supposed to be so great live, you'd think it would overcompensate for his voice. Guess not. I've never seen them live. Gentle Giant is also such a tough listen, but I'm working on them slowly. I have like all their albums but going through like 2 a year - just tough listens. Tarr, me and you are really on the same page with this one. Thanks as always.

[@jasonpp1973]

Haha, but Ruby Starr sang the lead vocals on BOA's big hit, ironically called Jim Dandy, lol.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Indeed - I actually have her solo album and it's really good. Probably why Jim Dandy is their biggest hit by far, because she sang it. Thanks for the great additional comment - great point.

[@martinstarnes2237]

Another good idea, this one; I suspect you are going to have plenty of other suggestions. Of those you mention Geddy Lee stands out the most to me, but I have no interest in AC/DC, Guns 'n' Roses and Rush (Brian Johnson always seems like a very nice bloke though, and Axel doesn't), I don't know any Black Oak Arkansas, I've never heard of those Rats, and Kate is Kate, and long may she be so. I think old man Dylan should be top of your list, as he can't actually sing at all (lol!), maybe Tom Waits might be there, but two others that I personally love but are not to others tastes would be Kevin Coyne & Roger Chapman from Family (a band very dear to my heart - the third album I ever bought brand new was Family/Anyway, some of which was recorded live at the Fairfield Hall - but I don't think the band ever made much of a splash across the pond - John Wetton was their bassist for a while pre-Crimson). Also, and I guarantee you will never have heard of him, the magnificent Phil Minton, who has been known to tour this country with his vocal choir feral workshops and does solo things vocally and improvisationally that you would not believe and is definitely not to everyone's taste, that is 100% certain. Me, I love it! I've had stuff of his since I was sixteen. He's still going strong as far as I know, but I am beginning to digress, and this conversation should probably be one over a pint of beer! Or a cup of tea! But you will find him on KZbin. And just for fun, I had a quick look. How's this for splitting the audience - comments on Phil Minton from the same KZbin video: "The deaf kid trying to alert everyone that the quiet kid just pulled out an AA-12" "This made me cry. Beautiful freedom." "What the f*** did i just watch?" "Can't believe this man is 80 years old. Love him so much." "Cameraman: Phil, why are we recording this under a pier? Phil: We are well f****** past why at this point, wouldn't you say?" I shall leave it there. Nice video Alan, as ever.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks so much. Dylan showing up in comments of course - to be expected. I'm a huge Dylan fan and love his voice(s). Of course his voice and vocal style changes so often - sometimes from album to album. But I imagine most are thinking of that "stereotype" Dylan voice. Roger Chapman of Family is a GREAT choice. I bought a 2 CD anthology two years ago and still trying to warm to it...with little luck. His voice....yea ...a tough limit. I haven't officially dumped it yet. Never heard of Phil Minton...Love your story. Thanks for sharing. Will KZbin it.

[@martinstarnes2237]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Well I am a great Roger Chapman fan, so I hope you do warm eventually........then again, when you only own three albums, as I did at the time (and the other two were Black Sabbath) you tend to play them a lot, and I did, and Family are in my blood, kind of, even if I rarely play them these days!! Chapman's later band Streetwalkers did some fine stuff too. I'd tell you more, but it's nearly 4 am, I've been watching the Formula One practice from Las Vegas and I must head for bed now, methinks. Nite! Oh, how about adding the good Captain to your list? Beefheart, I mean. Good luck with Phil...............

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@martinstarnes2237 Thanks Martin - oh that's another great example. I put Trout Mask Replica in my video of overrated albums. I don't even own it any more. I can't bear much Captain Beefheart either.

[@martinstarnes2237]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Heh heh. Tiny Tim........??

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@martinstarnes2237 oh my. Lol. Never knew anyone with a record Ny him. Lol. Would be torture for me.

[@williambaxter4628]

No fooling, when I saw the topic, first voice that came to mind was Jim Dandy! Myself, I love his vocals.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

That's awesome - thanks so much.

[@Bigchet1223]

Drama didnt have jon anderson. Had the bugles.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Very true and I mentioned that in the video. In fact us fans were initially very shocked at seeing Yes at Madison Square Garden on the Drama tour expecting Jon Anderson and seeing Trevor.

[@willieluncheonette5843]

got two...Jello Biafra and Poly Styrene

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I actually never had anything by either so I don't know them beyond their name and reputation. Thanks.

[@DerekPugh-uj4yd]

When it comes to ACDC, it seems like it's mostly Scott fans who reject Johnson. I didn't really pay attention to them until the mid 80's, and the only songs i knew were Back In Black, Highway To Hell, Hells Bells and Jailbreak...and i thought it was the same guy! 😁 Also, thanks for mentioning the Good Rats. I've got an album or two in my vinyl collection but i didn't know a thing about them until now. 👍

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks. You're not alone - I think the majority of fans know AC/DC from Back In Black and later albums (at least here in the US). Then some backtracked. Though Highway to Hell definitely got a lot of play back in the day. Nice to hear you have some Good Rats - yea I still love them.

[@lemming9984]

I liked the Bon period (without being a fanatic), and bought Back In Black when it came out (hated it). I saw them on that tour which was Ok, but not as good when I saw them with good ol' Bon. Bon had a great raunchy bluesy voice - Johnson just screeches.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@ raunchy bluest voice is perfect description. Cool you see them live back in the day with Bon.

[@christopherschlacter4953]

The first video in which I completely agree with everything you said...

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Cool - thanks so much Christopher

[@christopherschlacter4953]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow I dont have any Rush, Guns and Roses, or AC DC Brian Johnson albums because of their voices, I am not a big Robert Plant fan either, but I do like Slash and Jimmy Page as guitarists.

[@timhewtson6212]

The intriguing thing to me is that, outside of Metal, almost all rock voices are an acquired taste, but some tastes are acquired a lot faster than others. Take Janis Joplin: that is one outlier of a voice, a one-off and totally bizarre if compared to conventional singing at the time. But most people immediately loved it. The same can be said for Robert Plant. Even the Beatles were odd at the time because they sang in Liverpool accents, when you were supposed to sing in Received English accents, at least in their home country. Then you have all those voices that people still argue over: Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, Tom Waits, Kate Bush, Mick Hucknall, Ian Hunter, Ian Anderson, and as you mentioned, Jon Anderson. I absolutely cannot stand Jon Anderson's voice. It's OK when Yes are rocking, but when Yes get fey, it is unbearable. I also loathe Stevie Winwood's voice as a single artist while I was fine with it in Traffic. Then there is The Grateful Dead, where they don't have any resonant singing voices at all. But the voice that seems to turn everyone away is that of Roger Chapman of Family / Streetwalkers etc. Virtually nobody can get past that voice, although I really don't have any problems with it at all. I just hear it like it's a male voice somewhat approaching Janis Joplin's vocal style. Janis' voice is adored; Roger's voice is abhorred. Fascinating topic.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Thanks - you definitely make some great points here. I personally can't seem to get past Chapman's voice. I actually agree with you on janis and I almost mentioned here in this video. Definitely an acquired taste but I acquired it quick (like Jon Anderson). I find many you mentioned so individualised - idiosyncrated vocalists - their style is unique but for me easy to love - Ian Anderson, Ian Hunter etc. The ones I mentioned and some you did - they're just "hard" on the ears and hard to get through. Best, Alan

[@jayt4465]

Stevie Nicks, Michael Jackson, Geddy Lee and Axl Rose for me.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Good list. Stevie Nicks is an interesting choice - back in the late 70's / early 80's loved her vocals especially with Fleetwood Mac of course. Of course with age etc her voice has changed a lot and I also don't really enjoy it anymore. Funny that she's bigger than she's ever been.....I think nowadays more know her than even Fleetwood Mac.

[@Bigchet1223]

I can see people having issues with neil youngs voice.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Yea - absolutely true. Totally unique. Of course I love it. But yea no doubt about it. Best, Alan

[@andrewsuppa7468]

I always thought that Brian Johnson was Bon Scott. 2.0. My pick is Donald Fagen. I love Steely Dan , just in small doses.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I find a big difference between Johnson and Scott - To me Bon Scott has a raw bluesy soulful voice though can screetch as well. To me Johnson screetches for lack of a better description. I really can only take him in small doses. I get the Fagen issue. His voice to me is not "annoying" but unique and I can see some not loving it. Possibly why that debut Steely Dan album is also so fantastic have different vocalists and it works amazingly well.

[@springinfialta106]

I love Yes and Styx but like you I can't take Geddy Lee. I particularly hate the song "Tom Sawyer" partly because that's pretty much the only Rush song they play on the radio. Over and over and over and over...

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Yes that's definitely way up there for me too - still on the radio so much. To me the classic Yes is on a whole other level compared to Rush IMHO.

[@donhadfield2835]

As a Canadian, I grew up on Rush, so Geddy sounds fine to me. I know you are not a fan of Alex Harvey, but I love the quirkiness. Speaking of really quirky, I have always had a soft spot for Russel Mael of Sparks, some Americans just can't get past the Britishness of Madness, Dusty Hill may have actually been a better singer than Billy Gibbons but there is something guts & gravel about the Reverend Willy G. I love Leonard Cohen but hate Bob Dylan and I never understood why people get all excited about Bruce Springsteen. Agree with you on Kate Bush & Bon Scott.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

You know I thought of Alex Harvey, but I don't own any of his albums because the two I bought I dumped because.....yea....I couldn't really get past his vocal. Just didn't enjoy the albums. I tried Sparks decades ago and at that time didn't do much for me. Perhaps due another chance...but so much music so little time.... I love Leonard Cohen too. But I love Dylan as well. Thanks so much. Best, Alan

[@jayt4465]

Have you listened to a full album of Springsteen's? He had a great four consecutive album run with Born to Run, Darkness on the Edge of Town, The River and Born in the USA that could match anybody's.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@jayt4465 I'm not sure what you're referring to? I'm a huge Springsteen fan and currently own 86 Springsteen albums (bootlegs, imports, live and every official album). I totally agree about the four consecutive album run.

[@donhadfield2835]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Perhaps, all the hype made me expect something exceptional and amazing but the best I can get is that it is very good music and that he puts on a great show. Perhaps it is the America-centric lyrics, I don't know but I have a friend who lives in Oregon, who describes him as an East-Coast phenomenon. But the beauty of music is that we can all appreciate different music. The Americana-Roots band I love the best is The Blasters. Peace...

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@donhadfield2835 thanks. The blasters for some reason have pretty much passed me by. I can still picture their album cover though. I know people do love them. I’ll have to investigate them. Better late than never. Peace back to you.

[@STEVEHEROLD]

i’d never heard of black oak arkansas until i saw dazed and confused in 1993. i like jim dandy (the song) but never had any desire to dig into their catalog. cant argue with any of these, although i don’t know good rats at all. i think their lead singer’s name might also be an acquired taste. sounds made up by a bad screenwriter.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Stay away from Black Oak Arkansas - you'll HATE them. The song you heard is the great Jim Dandy To The Rescue and it's sung by Ruby Starr - a female singer (who joined up with the band on occasion). Actually Peppi Marchello is his real name...lol. It is a great "stage" name though as well. You won't like The Good Rats either. I wish someone would make a good documentary on the LI Bar band scene in the 70's and 80's. was insanely great with Good Rats, Zebra and Twisted Sister (and many others). There's an idea for you and your team....

[@STEVEHEROLD]

@ that’s jim dandy singing that song. gotta be. at least the verses. she joins in with chorus and backing.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@ yea but she takes it to another level. Like a duet I guess. When he’s alone it’s a very garbled raw voice.

[@Niels133]

Cedric Bixler Zavala from The Mars Volta......

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@Niels133 oh yea. That’s a great choice. Yep I can’t get into them. Nice choice.

[@chrisboerger465]

Many of those are a taste I have no intention of acquiring! :) Kate Bush especially. It's not just the voice, I can't past those histrionic gesticulations she tries to pass off as dancing on her music videos. Pretentious with a capital P! But I understand a lot of people really dig her, so I should be more polite. An example of a voice I found initially grating but grew to embrace is Tom Verlaine. I discovered Television through Joe Jackson's See No Evil, so the first time hearing that song in Verlaine's somewhat less smooth vocalism was a bit jarring. But now I really love the guy.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I think you nailed Tom Verlaine. I had a so similar experience. Initially hearings they were so dry - almost sterile. Little to no passion....grating as you said....mechanical like. But then it grew on me and I love both Marquee Moon and Adventure. Have others as well. I hear you on Kate Bush. I understand the "pretentious" label. She's very Bowie like in a way. I'm a huge Bowie fan, but he also can be labelled that way on occasion. Best, Alan

[@chrisboerger465]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow I have all three Television albums and I believe four Verlaine solo records. I've heard a couple others on Hoopla that I really like, but unfortunately some of his albums appear to be out of print and are really expensive on Amazon. Maybe they'll re-release them in an affordable package someday.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@chrisboerger465 I have the three Television but no Verlaine solo. Yea - I don't remember seeing them out in the wild.

[@chrisboerger465]

@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Hi Alan. A couple of times I tried to leave a response where I recommended specific Tom Verlaine solo albums and they were blocked for whatever reason. So I just want to see if this one goes through.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@chrisboerger465 hi Chris. I’m seeing this comment. Saw some others and responded. Not me blocking any. Lol.

[@Sierra747]

I agree with Brian Johnston’s vocals. I love the music but his vocals ruin it for me but strangely I like axel rose!!

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Great analogy. I agree with you totally - Axl Rose I can handle much much more. Brian Johnson - I have to take in smaller doses for sure.

[@jasonpp1973]

Off course there are numerous metal bands with singers who sound like Cookie Monster, no interest to my ear.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@jasonpp1973 countless. But since my videos are about my physical collection and none of them are in my collection they don’t appear here. But oh yea. That whole death metal genre would be here to me.

[@jasonpp1973]

@TheAlanRosenbergShow Guess I should not insult Cookie Monster, as Sesame Street was a good learning show in the 70s, I believe it was filmed in NYC.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@jasonpp1973 I remember taking my kids to Sesame Place which was like an amusement park for little kids and was Sesame Street. don't know if still exists. Who doesn't love Cookie Monster

[@mjames4709]

💯 Bon Scott 👍🏻🇦🇺

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Seems we're not alone in our assessment - nice. Thanks so much.

[@davidschecter5247]

Yes' vocals are about 5,000 times better than Rush's vocals. No comparison in my mind.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

We're definitely on the same page with that one David. Though many don't seem to agree. Both acquired tastes for many , but for me Jon Anderson was an instant love. Thanks.

[@mofost1]

Capt beefheart lol i haven’t listened yet just a prediction

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I wouldn't recommend it. Captain Beefheart is definitely not for me.

[@mofost1]

@ you just haven’t acquired the taste yet. It’s a long drawn out one like, like me drinking whiskey & taking a pre shot & post shot soda drink whilst holding my nose & still somehow dry heave. I get it

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

@@mofost1 lol - that's a good analogy...yep kind of like how I feel when I hear Beefheart...maybe one day...I'll get a taste for him....

[@deetgeluid]

No Yoko Ono?😂

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

Actually great choice. I don't own any of her albums beyond the ones with John Lennon - guess I could have included her thru Double Fantasy or something. But oh yea - great choice.

[@danaaronmusic]

Jon Anderson and Geddy Lee sound nothing alike to my ears.

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I agree they're both different, but I get the comparison with their respective bands. I love Anderson and classic Yes, but I get that they can both be acquired tastes.

[@thomaswery3087]

Dan McCafferterty of Nazareth would be another one Alan.Lou Reed maybe

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I'm a big fan of Lou Reed but oh yea Dan McCafferty is a GREAT choice Tom. I actually do have issues with his voice. I just can't get into Nazareth largely because of it....but....I do LOVE their version of Love Hurts...might actually be my definitive version and that's saying something because it's one of my all time favorite songs. Thanks again Tom.

[@rainblaze.]

Sorry but I think Kate Bush is just so over rated. Not that she's bad by any means. But does not deserve the sheer unadulterated adulation she inspires in "certain quarters". Outside of cloud bursting and this womens work she's a solid... "Meh" IMHO

[@TheAlanRosenbergShow]

I can understand that...really. She's so different and sometimes "out there". She's pretty unique in my opinion, though somewhat reminiscent of doing things Bowie did, in his own way. I think when she's great, she's amazing but I don't think everything she's done is fantastic. I'm a fan but she's a mixed bag for me as well sometimes. Best, Alan