Top 20 Notoriously Bad Singing Performances in Movie Musicals

[@MsMojo]

Who would YOU have cast in these roles? Let us know below, and check out our video of the Top 10 Broadway Shows That Bombed So Hard They Cancelled Them Immediately - kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHiqeGpubculas0

[@TheAlphaBette]

They are already all perfect performances. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@MitchFace]

When I heard Gerard Butler explain his singing in phantom of the opera I actually came to respect it a little bit because he said he was going much more for the emotion less for the power and he does do that. I’m not saying it’s better than any other but I feel like it gets too much hate

[@User1975-]

It's not hate, it's ridicule and justified...

[@Breexbloodlust]

I didn't think it was that bad

[@eljordinio7647]

Yeah.... That explanation isn't going to save or excuse him. Ramin expresses emotions way better, *while more importantly actually sounding great!* This role is just as much about singing as it is about acting, and doing one part well isn't enough

[@crysania]

Pretty sure he was just justifying his god awful singing. He sounded like a tone deaf German Shepherd with laryngitis.

[@lefantomer]

@@eljordinio7647 Nobody watches Gerry's Phantom for his singing. No. Bod. Ee.

[@fae206]

The best thing about Pierce Brosnan is that he owns how bad he is and will be the first one to tell you. I watched an interview with him when the movie came out and he confirmed with the director, are you sure you want me singing here?

[@mkirby7815]

He played a real man-any woman would love to hear her man sing.

[@nightfancy1]

I thought that was kinda the point, he is supposed to be just an everyday guy not an accomplished singer.

[@ombrenightcores]

If I ever feel sad and hopeless I turn on the Mamma Mia movie, simply because every note that comes out of his mouth makes me laugh and sing along the way he does. I have nothing against him particularly but WHEN. UR. GON. HOWCANI. EVENTRY. TOGOON.

[@CarolinaMouse]

I honestly think Walter Mathau's singing performance thought not perfect..suits the character of Horace Vandergelder quite well. As you said he's an old curmudgeon and not the young lover like Cornelius or Ambrose so to have that kind of bland, 'rusty' not that 100% perfect vocal styling.

[@debsa-nonymous]

totally agree! I can't imagine anyone else in that role though many have played it. Walter is who I think of every time.

[@User1975-]

@@debsa-nonymous How could you think of any other actor when this role (just like the other roles) were usurped by these big names and not actual vocalists!

[@maryjoyspohrer256]

Exactly!

[@debsa-nonymous]

@@User1975- I’ve seen those others and they bring their own to the role, but I didn’t enjoy them as much. To each his/her own.

[@Hubbell42]

Matthau couldn’t sing and was a major a$$hole to Streisand.

[@MrCarlosandres94]

The problem with Emma Watson is we didn’t even get to hear her voice. The voice correction/auto tune completely took over. It was a robot singing.

[@tiffprendergast]

Unteue

[@cubessopranista8772]

🤣😂😅

[@kriscynical]

A robot singing for a plank of wood. Actually pretty appropriate if you think about it.

[@J.P.Robles]

They basically got Siri to dub her singing voice

[@ameliajones9827]

Is there any true to this? I want to know because I haven't gotten a clear answer as to whether they used autotune to not.

[@Supasmartguy]

2019's Cats gets my vote for the single worst film ever made, of any genre.

[@scoutart1508]

at least the singing voices were generally well performed in execution either great or decent enough, i suppose

[@Truthseeker6859]

Have you seen Battlefield Earth? Not a musical but truly horrendous.

[@lindakarlsson7348]

Battlefield Earth and The Room are worse when it comes to general quality (so bad they are actually fun), but Cats is not far behind.

[@laura-maejames3424]

I honestly tried to watch the room, but i can't even remember if i finished, lolol@@lindakarlsson7348

[@ma53jg]

Wow, really? Just keep watching...Lol!

[@MizzEanaj]

I loved Nipsey Russell’s performance in the Wiz, as well as half of this list lol

[@nagarjuna012]

right!!

[@SheWaterRose]

🎯

[@mervyngreene6687]

I AGREE 100%! Nipsey was the highlight of the movie.

[@jessicaspecht]

I get upset when people "bash" those in various roles that aren't what they normally do. Yes, Nipsey might not have been the best singer, but this isn't a role he normally does. So, Ms Mojo needs to cut him some slack.

[@fatal613]

I searched for this comment and was prepared to leave it if it wasn’t here 🥴

[@colleenkeefer2545]

Can I just say that Guys and Dolls is one of my family’s favorite musicals. Yes Sinatra can sing rings around Brando, and he wanted the part of Skye. But I think it was actually appropriately casted. The numbers for Nathan Detroit needed the agile vocals of Sinatra. The softer vocals of Brando suited the more subtle sensitive side of Skye’s pro gambler persona. Besides, he was on key, unlike some other examples on the list.

[@JennA-uf6lo]

In the context of the movie, Brando’s performance of “Luck Be a Lady” made perfect sense and sounds great.

[@annekupillas4009]

I LOVE Marlon Brando's singing in this movie! Is he a good singer? Definitely not. Is it perfect? Yes, yes it is.

[@host_theghost507]

He's great in the role and had amazing chemistry (yeah, chemistry) with Jean Arthur. She didn't have a strong voice either, but nobody mocks her for it. I think he was just paying a price for his stardom.

[@JennA-uf6lo]

@@host_theghost507 No argument here about his chemistry with his leading lady, but that was Jean *Simmons* as Sgt. Sarah (Jean Arthur is better known for her films in the 30’s).

[@host_theghost507]

@@JennA-uf6lo You're right, of course. I have anomic aphasia and names are often difficult for me.

[@WraythSkitzofrenik]

If your actor/tress, can't sing, DON'T CAST THEM. We don't accept dubs, autotunes, or remixes. We're musical fans. We want music.

[@kangadillo]

I totally agree. Not casting Julie Andrew's in the MFL movie was one of the stupidest decisions ever made. So she wasn't a star. Word of mouth would have made her one, and I think the movie would have made just as much money. By not casting her, they robbed future generations of the gift of her beautiful voice singing "Wouldn't it be Loverly."

[@stone1andonly]

The irony of Stallone being cast in Rhinestone is that his brother, Frank, is a recording artist with a Top 10 hit song he wrote and performed for the movie Staying Alive (produced by Sly, no less) called Far From Over. He actually wrote nearly all the music for the movie, though he only sang Far From Over.

[@cc1966ful]

I was gonna post something like this...thx for pointing it out...😊

[@trinaq]

Ironically enough, Russell Crowe actually has a musical background, singing with his band. But I agree that compared to the rest of the cast, his vocals didn't seem as polished.

[@KittenUndercover]

True but singing in a musical is different from singing in a band.

[@eljordinio7647]

Then he should not have been this bad

[@livinglife1874]

I think Hugh Jackman’s voice was really bad. Russel Crowe was wayyy better. What do you think?

[@eljordinio7647]

@@livinglife1874 Hugh Jackman has more talent acting and vocal wise than that failure Crowe ever will when it comes to musicals. His background is musical theatre for Pete sake

[@englishatheart]

Anyone can be in a band. That doesn't make them good singers.

[@madisonbfrog]

Okay but Nipsey Russells Slide some Oil was my FAVORITE song from the wiz aside from You can't Win Edit: I also read somewhere the reason we love commercial singers is because of the imperfections in their voices like inclinations and tone and the emotions that are evoked from their performances because on the other side of that autotune is shunned and doesn't appeal as much to the ear it's too robotic like there's a reason we call performers iconic yk

[@jadepixie2719]

Gerald butler wasn’t really that bad though, sure he wasn’t Michael Crawford but he wasn’t as bad compared to nearly everyone on this list.

[@terrib627]

Nah, he brayed like a donkey. His voice was about as seductive as sliding down a razor bannister.

[@firemaster432]

Agree with you and people have to remember it's a movie based on a freaking opera that's known for the crazy high notes 🎶

[@beedubya8836]

He was horrible. The likes of pierce brosnan and Russel Crowe

[@kitkeller5831]

Rosalind Russell nails her last production number in “Gypsy, “ even if part of her vocal is dubbed.

[@ElizabethMcCormick-s2n]

Paige O'Hara beats Emma Watson hands down in my book!

[@nicolelylewis]

I'm the other way around...haha!

[@ElizabethMcCormick-s2n]

@@nicolelylewisWhat? But Emma is AWFUL!

[@mrbear1302]

Doubt Paige could actually "act" the role!

[@ElizabethMcCormick-s2n]

@@mrbear1302Yeah, but that doesn't matter!

[@mrbear1302]

@@ElizabethMcCormick-s2n Ummm yea it does. It is MUCH easier to stand in a sound booth than it is to hit marks and perform.

[@6g15]

Please don't let this list deter you from watching Repo. It is one of my favorite films of all time. No one is perfect and no one needed to be, it's a masterpiece in my eyes 🤷

[@wendywestcott-reynoso441]

Wow! Are you kidding??

[@suzannemenuet947]

Thank you! I freaking love Repo! And honestly, the singing is why!

[@fybromon1409]

Repo is BRILLIANT. I love everyone in it, even Paris.

[@BoredSoprano]

The fact that they used a clip of the Grave-Robber (Terrance Zdunich) when trying to highlight bad singing is just shocking, his voice is phenomenal. But also Repo! is amazing!!!

[@treannadawn]

Right? It's one of my favorites as well. I'm so sad to see it on this list :(

[@trfreitas1983]

I must confess; I LOVED Russell Crowe's in Les Miserables. 😅🥰For me, the only problem was that his songs were only about one single theme. "I must follow the law!", "24601 I'll find you...", etc. Crowe's rough voice was awesome in the intro with Hugh Jackman. 😁

[@WelcomeApathy]

Have you ever heard a good Javert, though? Because while Crowe had an okay rock voice, he couldn't sing a broadway song the way he's supposed to at all. The only song he was decent for the character in was Confrontation, as he pulled off the duet fine.

[@trfreitas1983]

@@WelcomeApathy I wouldn't be naive comparing Crowe's voice with any Broadway singer. My point was just about the movie, which was decent. But the play is another level. Even the staging production in Brazil (my country) here was phenomenal. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@kazetoame]

I personal cannot understand why he is so high on the list when a lot more on this list were worse than him, he was at least he could carry a tune, while Clint Eastwood could not to save his life (it was also sounding sharp, Crowe was in tune.)

[@Nightmare2688theeleckamo]

I agree but I love him in an ironic way Unironically though he’s still good

[@GFNVoiceActor]

"Gerard Butler couldn't hit any high notes" *shows a clip of him hitting a high note*

[@englishatheart]

If you call that a high note. I don't, and his voice is atrocious. Patrick Wilson was the only good part in that movie.

[@psychickumquat]

He didn't hit the note, he mutilated it...

[@wanderer7956]

The most confusing casting choice on this list for me has always been Gerard Butler. Most of the other entries were big names who were cast to bring the crowds to the movie. I get that Crawford was too old by the time the movie was actually being made, but Butler was an unknown and put into what it arguably one of the most difficult musical theater roles from a very popular show. With such a popular show, many have seen it or at least heard the Broadway soundtrack (meaning the audience know how it sounds when done right). What were they thinking?

[@eljordinio7647]

Should have gotten somebody who can actually sing the parts properly

[@crysania]

I think the saddest thing is I think they were considering Hugh Jackman, but he was tied up with something (X-Men maybe) and then they turned to Butler. I don't think MC was too old at all as he still had an incredible voice and the Phantom is already in a lot of makeup and is supposed to be older. But even so, they could have waited for Jackman.

[@kelleyk28]

I read that the director chose Butler because of the "rock and roll sound of his voice". He wasn't great, but I do not care. I loved him as the Phantom. He could have done some of those notes, but they were out of his range most of the time, and his accent got in the way a lot.

[@kennethwayne6857]

@@kelleyk28 The way I heard it, it was Lloyd Webber who wanted the "rock 'n' roll sound". Pretty sure Lloyd Webber had the final say on casting, so he should be blamed for Butler.

[@kelleyk28]

@@kennethwayne6857 That's what I read too, I just couldn't remember the name of the guy who chose him.

[@brittanyfehlings6838]

I grew up listening to the original cast Phantom of the opera, but I love gerard butler version too he may not be an amazing singer but I like the roughness of his voice And Rhinestone cowboy is one of my 2 favorite Stallone movies. His awfulness just makes it all the better haha

[@4Mr.Crowley2]

Watching Taylor jerk her head around and squeak while misreading the emotions of the song (wry and melancholy regret Liz not anger + “literally scared of clowns”) is just depressing. “Send in the Clowns” is so lovely, and this one is depressing AF.

[@cair124]

Gene Kelly should have played Sky Masterson in "Guys and Dolls" - he had the roguish charm AND the singing ability.

[@WraythSkitzofrenik]

And he and Frank Sinatra were an iconic musical movie duo! It made sense!

[@marthawelch4289]

Gene Kelly actually played a real heel who transformed to good guy on Broadway in Pal Joey. Sinatra took over that role in the movie of Pal Joey. Both of them were very believable in their performances. Brando's best performance in the musical is his Cuban dance scene. However, the songs are just too good to let a novice singer perform the part. So, for the Guys and Dolls movie I think either Gene or Sinatra could have played either role. But, I just do not understand why anyone would ever choose the "singer" who dubbed Jean Simmons. I can't even watch the movie on TCM anymore because of her screeching. For the movie back then just redub beautiful Jean with Marni Nixon who sang for just about every actress who couldn't sing. The best things about the movie are Stubby Kaye and the always pining dancer who just can't ever get her "guy" to the altar.

[@mervyngreene6687]

I disagree. The movie needed a more "traditional" musical leading man.

[@kennethwayne6857]

I feel the same. I read that he wanted the part very badly and campaigned hard for it but he was under contract to MGM and they would not loan him out. Then to add insult to injury, they distributed the film. Plus the movie's director and writer Joe Mankiewicz was enamored with Brando.

[@do9138]

@@kennethwayne6857 The old studio system didn't always lead to the best casting.

[@virginiapalmer5669]

I have to disagree with several movies that were picked 🤔 to me the actor worked with that role they were playing. And at that time their role required a different voice not something with perfect pitch. Once again is my opinion and I love with those actors playing those rolls because I thought it was great. Doctor Dolittle, Paint your wagon, Gypsy, The Wiz, Guys and Dolls are great movies even with their singing.

[@codybk91]

Gerard Butler's voice in "Phantom" is pretty good in my opinion. Yes, it has its faults, but to me it expresses the nuance of the depression of his solidarity, the anger of his rejection by the outside world, and just the sheer melancholy of his life. I'm not sure if that's what Gerard was going for, but I like it. 🙂

[@m.ei_j3702]

There’s a difference between the feelings in one’s voice/how they express them and their singing capabilities

[@kathyt8374]

I saw Michael Crawford in Phantom on Broadway three times. There was no other Phantom that can do him justice.

[@Itried20takennames]

Agree, and same with Emma Watson as Belle….neither are the strongest technical singing talent, but decent and got the acting/emotion across fine.

[@LloydSpencer]

Brando was brilliant in Guys and Dolls. Perfect. Electric when he sang 'Luck, Be A Lady Tonight'.

[@Uncle_Smidge]

Butler is still my favorite Phantom. His voice is ragged and full of menace. He's so obsessed with Christine because her voice is so polished and clean; why would he be obsessed with perfection in someone else if he could achieve it himself? I almost think other Phantoms sound too clean and pretty. Butler SOUNDS like someone that's had to love outside the safety of society and survived some shit.

[@Breexbloodlust]

same

[@kristenrock7783]

Even though geared Butler doesn't have the best singing chops to portray a musical genius, his acting ability for the very enraged, and love for christen shined through in his acting. Look at the ending when he lets Christine go, the pain, but yet the deep love he has for her is just so heart tugging.

[@sarahduke2839]

Gerald butler was good in the phantom of the opera it was awsome

[@KittenUndercover]

😬

[@giovannanetto7682]

Agreed! It is not as good as the Broadway versions but close enough! He kinda sounds like a hard rock singer which is kinda cool!!

[@sarahduke2839]

It does

[@sarahduke2839]

Sound like he rock it

[@Cincygirl1021]

Ugggghhhhh…. Terrible

[@aionlover3981]

"Seasoned singers like Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway" LOOOOOL

[@ericgjovaag7958]

The moment I saw this topic, I suspected I knew what was going to be #1. I was right! But may I come to the defense of Nipsy Russell? All you showed was "Slide Some Oil to Me", but his rendition of the ballad "What Would I Do If I Could Feel" was sensitive and (ironically, for the character he was playing) heartfelt. He may have been the weakest singer in "The Wiz", but he sure made his Tin Man memorable.

[@cubessopranista8772]

Angela Lansbury should have been offered to do another Mame movie 5 or 10 years after Lucille Ball.

[@SlayerNinaFriki]

Excuse me, but Repo the Genetic Opera is a masterpiece. The actors nailed each part with voices appropiate for each character. Also how can you say Graverobber isn't good?

[@techone72893]

This is the one choice that I take full exception to them putting on this list. Repo is a genius piece of work. The performers are mostly trained singers, such as ASH, Paul, Terrance, and Sarah. The newcomers to singing, such as Alexis, hit their songs perfectly in character. To expect Broadway Tony performances from a PUNK ROCK musical is silly to say the least, and uneducated to say for certain. Repo is a classic, and I have it on my mp3 playlist alongside other classics like Les Mis, Rent, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Ms Mojo really missed the mark with this choice.

[@suzannemenuet947]

Yes!

[@multiverse_media2023]

Gerard Butler was actually good in Phantom of the Opera… but everyone in Cats… it was terrible.

[@sheilaholmes996]

He cannot sing and sounds awful.

[@eljordinio7647]

Neither are worth defending. Butler was bad, Cats wasn't any better

[@terrib627]

Butler should have been in Cats. He would have fit in.

[@Breexbloodlust]

I wanna see how bad it is

[@englishatheart]

But he wasn't.

[@delaneymettey3946]

I feel like if they didn't autotuned Emma Watsons voice she would have sounded lovely! Belle's voice is not supposed to be as high and operatic like snow white or aurora but very gentle and pretty but powerful! I still feel like Emma Watson was still perfect to play Belle because of her acting but i do agree the autotune bugged me a lot!

[@ChristionGirl45]

I agree. She played the part of Belle very well, but the singing could be a little off-putting at times due to all the auto tuning!

[@eljordinio7647]

Still, Paige definitely outclassed her vocally

[@delaneymettey3946]

@@eljordinio7647 I agree! Paige O'Hara will always be belle it just would be nice to hear Emma Watson's voice not so auto tuned.

[@eljordinio7647]

@@delaneymettey3946 yeah I kinda noticed that after a few rewatches, but I'll at least give Emma some props for her acting

[@ajpat9620]

The statements of an auto-tune being placed on her singing performance is NOTHING but a full of lies, fake news, phony and made-up stories, libel and at worse, blatant misinformation; nothing more.

[@laurenmontera9516]

Emma Watson had no singing lessons until she got the role. This was her debut as a total beginner and it scared her to have to sing in front of everyone. She was picked because of her acting and looks, not her novice musicality. I appreciate her performance and love this adaptation to bits.

[@KittenUndercover]

Why take a role you were not prepared for when there were hundreds of more talented and qualified people out there? $$$$$$$$$$ also she didn’t have to sing in front of everyone..it’s not Broadway. She was in a recording booth. Lastly, her acting skills are terrible - and I say this as a Harry Potter fan who loved her as Hermione.

[@sheilaholmes996]

As a singer I don’t understand why someone who cannot sing would do a musical.

[@KittenUndercover]

@@sheilaholmes996money

[@annafowdy]

Funnily enough, my mother (as small minded as she is) thought people didn't like Emma Watson's casting because she wasn't considered pretty enough, even though her physical appearance was one of ONLY two reasons she was cast.

[@ajpat9620]

And still, Emma Watson got mentored and taught with singing lessons by Paige O'Hara, in order to prepare the former for the role.

[@bobalooloo02]

It may have been made for tv but Carrie Underwood performance in the sound of music wins every award for bad. Bad signing, bad acting, bad presence, bad casting, bad understanding of the script. I still have nightmares about that "performance"

[@Oodb2]

Everyone cast in these movies is exactly as it should be. Sometimes the character is not supposed to be a opera or pop star, and to cast a virtuoso singer would not be good for that particular character. And not every character is the “star” of the show. They are there to enhance and move along the story, or be the support to the star. Their singing quality does not really matter, as long as they portray their characters honestly and with the correct expression to bring that character to life.

[@eldiran2]

Mmm, not true. When casting a "musical' you need a good actor AND a good vocalist, and admittedly that is not easy (and why so many were dubbed by singers in their musical roles: Natalie Wood, Audrey Hepburn, etc)

[@MrsJoeMama1]

I agree that Russell Crowe's singing was not anywhere near the caliber of Hugh Jackman's but I think it was unfair to call his performance flat and emotionless. Singing abilities aside, he nailed his portrayal of Javert. The character's belief in following the law is rigid and unyielding and he very strictly enforces these laws and punishes the criminals accordingly. His unyielding beliefs eventually lead to his demise as he just can't live with the fact that a convicted criminal spared his life. Maybe it's just me, but flat and emotionless was a brilliant take on the character. Seriously, it's not like they expected an upbeat, smiley faced dance number while Crowe was singing Stars, right??? TLDR: Russel Crowe's singing wasn't great by any means, but that doesn't mean that he didn't do his character justice in his portrayal.

[@cecowart]

Totally disagree with the choices this time. I believe most of the performances were what the producers wanted.

[@jenniferhalf1650]

Also Gerald Butler was amazing and I never heard anyone say his performance was bad until this video.. Stop comparing people. At the end of the day they are two different people giving their own twists on the characters....

[@jameswyatt6648]

gerard butler was terrible as phantom he was the worst phantom ever and mind you i am a fan of his

[@barb-jm7990]

I didn't care that a few of Gerard's notes were questionable because he is so smoking hot!

[@jameswyatt6648]

@@barb-jm7990 he really is

[@terrib627]

He was terrible. He brayed like a donkey. How anyone can say he even remotely compared to Michael Crawford or Ramin Karimloo convinces me people have tin ears.

[@jameswyatt6648]

@@terrib627 amen i agree totally hes still sexy tho lol just not as sexy as Ramin who is an Iranian god hehe

[@matth3w2002]

If Oliver Reed sung as well as he drank, dude would’ve been in a million movie musicals.

[@4Mr.Crowley2]

Diaz’s performance was wonderful because that *is* her singing voice. She has talked about this many times - they wanted her to “perform” badly and she said that she didn’t need to perform as she’s legit tone deaf. It was real and therefore 1,000x funnier.

[@olvialee7221]

600: You’d try to smile through the movie but couldn’t help to cover your ears

[@trinaq]

James Corden REALLY shouldn't be getting any more opportunities to sing, or to star in movie adaptations of musicals, between Cats and Girl Boss Cinderella. The Prom has been his only decent attempt thus far.

[@kermitTHEdinosaur93]

What about his performance as the Baker in Into the Woods (2014)?

[@KittenUndercover]

@@kermitTHEdinosaur93what about it? Is he really the character that stood out to you in that film? Because I barely remember him.

[@sonicjrjr14]

You can have a problem with him as a person, but I really don't think you can objectively say his singing is bad

[@kermitTHEdinosaur93]

No but I barely find that performance to be bad. @@KittenUndercover

[@mjewan9920]

I have nothing against his musical chops but there's something about him that sucks the attention which is terrible for minor roles

[@kriscynical]

I remember being head of crew for my school's theater production of Guys n Dolls... it was a strict Christian school, so we had to change the name "craps" to "dice" because the elementary school parents fussed. 🙄

[@icon_uk624]

It's honestly hard to imagine anyone OTHER than Lee Marvin singing "I Was Born Under a Wandering Star", it suited his voice and range to a tee. And Liz Taylor's singing of Send in the Clowns might not be good, but might also be partly down to her not singing it not as a lyrical song (The way most concert or single versions do) but in the dramatic style the stage version demands (And which, for example, Glynis Johns and Judi Dench do), it's not meant to be pleasant to listen to, it's a sad and rather tortured song about someone full of anger and regret.

[@StudioGhibliFan494]

Gerard Butler sang beautifully in the Phantom of the Opera

[@englishatheart]

Are you from an alternate universe? Because he was awful in this one.

[@bUrRiEdaLiVe6]

Tom Cruise? Seriously? I think he NAILED IT! Besides, his acting was great

[@alexispetrowski3218]

Gerald butler and marlon Brando are both fantastic singers. I think it’s the expectation for both that had them considered so poorly. Like butter is phenomenal for a non-broadway singer-he brings so much emotion to his signing while still being lovely to hear and Brando is wonderful soft, like a father singing his child to sleep. Again I think critics being too harsh

[@annika_panicka]

Wait - why is Pierce Brosnan being singled out for "Mamma Mia?" None of the dads could sing. And only three of the main cast had the vocal chops to do ABBA any justice.

[@evanisbaked]

I haven't seen Tommy yet but the thought of Ann Margret writhing in a pool of beans is really selling me

[@Breexbloodlust]

I love ann margaret. That sounds like a fever dream

[@mojo500100]

evanisbaked Yep, you said it, pal! 😀 (Her scenes were among the few I was able to sit all the way through.) Even today, Ann-Margret is gorgeous.

[@elizabethhuber434]

Tommy is a must watch for anyone who likes balls-to-wall cinema. It was directed by Ken Russell who rarely did anything if it wasn't over the top.

[@mikawhofan]

Yea.. she was tripping pretty heavy before she shoves her son through a window

[@alyzu4755]

I watched it with my friends when we were in high school. I had some weird-a$$ dreams that night. 😊

[@nicolelylewis]

also, I didn't think Cameron or Pierce were that bad....interesting casting choice for Cameron, but I didn't mind either of their singing in those movies.

[@fae206]

You should watch Pierce Brosnans interview about it on, I believe, The Daily Show. He’s got a great attitude about the whole thing

[@jerfsjourneys]

Repo absolutely doesn't belong on this list. Those songs were bangers and they are mainstays on my playlists

[@Msrrick]

Surprised that if you wanted to include a Sinatra movie you didn't make it Peter Falk in Robin and the 7 Hoods. Although his song is only 1:34 seconds it definitely should be on this list. Especially when you have not only Frank, but Sammy, Dean, and even Bing Crosby in the cast.

[@Rite1010.]

Okay Emma is no Paige. However, she is good. I still love her version. And yes, movie phantom is pretty bad Little did we know, those dogs weren't acting

[@alfiechat]

So fun true story: my husband and I did vocal recitals a few years ago, and he sang Stars from Les Mis as one of his pieces. Someone came up to him after the recital and said that he sang it better than Russell Crowe. Hahaha

[@Laramaria2]

I don't think Emma Watson is bad at singing. I think Belle was just too demanding for her. She needed more time, practice and experience to nail it, but it could have worked.

[@julkasteven8198]

I agree. She's Perfect Belle.

[@suebob16]

I have some disagreements: *Bobby Van had the comedy relief role in Lost Horizons. It was not the best written part, but Van is an experienced singer and dancer. He did well in his one song. He should not be part of the "Everyone" criticism. Check out the younger Van in his memorable jumping dance highlighted in That's Entertainment, Part 2. *Walter Matthau. Horace Vandergelder is described as a curmudgeon, and he does come across that way in his performance. I think his singing voice is acceptable because it works with his character. Matthau only had a brief moment singing with Streisand, and it didn't ruin the film. *Marlon Brando. I thought his Sky Masterson came off rather well. He was able to perform his songs without looking awkward as opposed to others. He was better than Clint Eastwood.

[@LloydSpencer]

Clint Eastwood and Lee Marvin were just perfect in 'Paint Your Wagon'... a great, great musical to which I keep returning. Brave, authentic singing.

[@Bluerose888]

I enjoyed both of them singing

[@Survivor2002]

I KNEW you'd come through! Your #1 pick has always been my Ultimate Pick For Worse Big Screen Musical Performance EVER!

[@4Mr.Crowley2]

Emma Watson’s flat alto did indeed sound like a foghorn with some garbage autotune

[@Serielle]

I actually really liked Gerald Butlers phantom, don’t get me wrong, it’s definitely not the best but the way he pronounced the words and the feeling he gave it was perfect.

[@kepckatherinec805]

I feel a lot of sympathy for Lucille Ball playing Mame. Prior to that role, Lucy was quite frank about her inability to sing. I don’t know how or why she was chosen to play Mame, but clearly it was a mistake. And Liz Taylor-in the scene shown in this video, it looks like Liz is cringing as she tries to sing. Another misplaced casting of an otherwise excellent actor.

[@mervyngreene6687]

Two names: Lisa Kirk, Marnie Nixon.

[@kelleyceccato7025]

I will agree with those who defend Lee Marvin in Paint Your Wagon. His role didn't demand a strong singing voice, and Marvin performs his songs quite effectively. But a beautiful romantic ballad like "I Talk to the Trees" NEEDS first-rate singing chops. If the studio was determined to use Eastwood without dubbing his vocals, that song should have been cut from the film, just as Joe Hardy's ballads from Damn Yankees were cut once Tab Hunter was cast. "Gold Fever" could have stayed, but "Trees" shouldn't have. The movie musical started spiraling downward the moment studios started casting non-singing, non-dancing movie stars in musical roles, rather than seeking out musically gifted performers and turning them into stars as they had once done with Fred and Ginger, Nelson and Jeanette, Dick Powell, Jane Powell, Gene Kelly, Howard Keel, etc.

[@michaeltutty1540]

As a singer with decades of experience, there is nothing at all wrong with Emma Watson's singing that a bit of training could not fix easily. She has a musical ear, and that can't be faked. She knows how to tune chords. That is maybe where the issue is. Everyone now expects autotune to "fix" notes, even when they need to be out of tune to make a chord work. All she needs is lessons in breathing to support the notes, and she is golden. There is one thing that Emma does nail, and that is the use of vibrato. She know when and how to hold a note steady, only warming it up at the end of a reasonably long note. A pleasure to the ear. Rosalind Russell was not a great singer. She does not sell a song. Walter Matthau knew what he was doing. He was no singer, and it is to his credit that he did not try to be a singer. His voice works with the character. With Seth Rogan, it is possible that he sang off key on purpose. Sometimes singing very badly is the highest art. My brother can do off key and off beat intentionally, since he has perfect pitch. Lucille Ball dreaded singing in Mame. Still, she gave it her all. Her duet with Bea Arthur must be listened to in order to believe it. She was 63 when the movie was made, which put her about double the age of the character in the beginning of the movie. It is only at the very end that Mame catches up with Lucille. By the time the movie was made, decades of smoking had caught up with her vocal chords. Still, much as she hated singing, she knows how to sell a song, and that covers a multitude of sins. Sondheim may have tailored Send In The Clowns for someone with a limited range, but he wrote it for a more than competent singer. It is surprisingly difficult to get it right, as it requires an incredible level of breath control to make the soft, gentle melody sound as strong as it needs to be. Elizabeth Taylor never had a chance, sad to say. Repo can only be summed up with the famous review spoken by Noel Coward, "A triumph of nevermind over doesn't matter." Dr. Doolittle and Talk To The Animals is actually much more difficult to do properly, as in the way Rex Harrison performed it, than Bare Necessities. The latter is simply sung. Hit the notes and away you go. Talk To The Animals takes a lot more skill than it first appears. Just try to do it right.

[@PadenDavidson]

Honestly, I agree, though I may not have near as much experience, Emma can sing and should be brought on more

[@wanderer7956]

I agree that people are too hard on Emma Watson's singing performance in this movie. She doesn't blow me away, but she's not terrible either. You're right that she just needs more training. Almost all of the criticism is about comparing her to Paige Ohara who is an AMAZING and very experienced Broadway star. Most people are going to fall short when compared to her!

[@User1975-]

As an operatic trained tenor of over a decade and years of singing before that, I can't fathom how you can honestly state that Emma Watson's voice (after being technologically treated) can compare with the likes of Broadway's Paige O'hara or anyone of that caliber! Are you kidding me?

[@Breexbloodlust]

I thought she did good. Lots of people didn't like her as Belle. She didn't deserve the hate

[@aliceramdom.s]

everyone sings differently in a different way and not everyone's voice will reach the volume of other people's voices but it is good enough for them

[@Ace-Of-Spades---]

Strangely enough, songs from films that are sung in an idiosyncratic way often become popular. Here in Germany and I think also in England (it was played just as often on British soldiers' radio), "Wand'rin Star" was quite popular, whether Lee Marvin could sing or not. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@shaunig6716]

Russel Crowe is even harder to understand when you know Tom Hooper cast a lot of the roles with people who had played them in the Westend production. Why the hell then, after doing that, cast the pivotal role of Javert with “A name” who can’t sing, instead of someone who had proved they could sing the part night after night!??? Ruined the film for me

[@crysania]

#1 worst for me is Gerard Butler in Phantom. I'm so glad you listed him but he really should have #1. Not only for how terrible his singing was but because the character is supposed actually have the voice of the angel of music. I had to put my hands over my ears when I saw the movie. There was nothing good about his performance and it's a huge disappointment.

[@megannwalsh]

I was so excited to see Les Mis and then all the singing, especially from Russell Crowe, who had the second most lines, gave me a really bad migraine. I was so upset. Whoever thought it was a good idea to cast him should be shamed!

[@NancyPollyCy]

I've always heard that Sinatra resented not being tapped for Sky, the score's best songs are Nathan' Detroit's, which more than makes up for Brando's sub-standard singing.

[@nbafan9388]

And who can forget Ann Margaret's performance in everything?

[@minanes6549]

I can't help thinking of the French and Saunders spoof of 'Mamma Mia' with Philip Glenister doing the Pierce Brosnan role. Makes me laugh like a drain every time.

[@alyzu4755]

Same! 🤣🤣🤣

[@dc_al_coda]

Okay, I've said it before and I'll say it again: Tom Cruise's singing isn't bad. If you want to argue it's not a rock 'n' roll voice, fair enough. At least his songs in Rock of Ages were enjoyable to listen to. No where near as bad as Alec Baldwin.

[@maryannfelice148]

THANK YOU for speaking the truth regarding Gerald Butler as The Phantom!!!! It was a travesty not to have had Crawford. But if the studio was so dead set against him, at least they could have chosen someone who could sing in the range needed for this role!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Butler doesn't sing those high notes, he hits them with a sledgehammer!!!!!!! There's only one scene in the entire film where Butler does a good... no, great job. It is the scene on the rooftop when the Phantom's heart breaks realizing Christina is truly in love with Raoul.

[@swankscares]

I love Repo! The singing is great, the story is great!

[@Mcb0223]

THIS. Leave Repo alone! 😂

[@suzannemenuet947]

Yes!

[@LittleZelda]

I always thought the horse in the hello dolly movie scene was trying to steal the show 😂

[@joyunicycle]

Personally, I'd put Seth Rogen at #1. I watched it in theaters with my friend who knew singing better than me at the time. As soon as he sang, I looked at her silently asking "That's not good is it?" She shook her head and I agreed. That was the worst singing I've ever heard. Pierce Brosnan being #2

[@mervyngreene6687]

I always heard that the original plan was for Sinatra to play Masterson, and Brando to play Detroit. I think that would have made the movie better.

[@tadanott300]

Liz Taylor was bad but Rebel Wilson was worse. As a lover of musicals, this list was truly painful.

[@BlackBirdSinging47]

REPO is amazing! You’re missing out if you just write it off. And I disagree on Gerard Butler and Tom Cruise. They fully embodied those characters and there was nothing distracting about their voices that took me out of the movie. Were they Broadway caliber, no. Did they kill the performance they were asked to deliver? I would say yes.

[@314Juicy]

I won’t have you people disrespecting the late Nipsey Russell. All black purple don’t sound the same. He has a very Smokey old school voice that I think was PERFECT!!! Ppl who say he wasn’t “up to par” I think are just devoid of culture 😂. I agree with most everything else tho

[@KimoVegas]

Most were spot on however #7 REPO- Terrence Zundich was narrating as well as singing (The Graverobber) so he did well for the role he portrayed. Sarah Brightman , Anthony Head and Alexa PenaVega were great, everyone else..... not that great. #6 ROCK OF AGES, I thought Tom wasn't that horrible, he portrayed a burned out rock star pretty good including his voice.

[@thomasbradley4505]

Gerard Butler wasn’t horrible as the phantom, but they had Patrick Wilson RIGHT THERE. He could have pulled it off easily

[@BlessYourHeart254]

I think Emma Watson did just fine.

[@julkasteven8198]

She did do fine. I agree.

[@jonnarobinson7541]

Russell Crowe was atrocious in Le Miz. Many people are saying that they are OK with the performances of Lucille Ball, Rosalyn, Russell, etc. With the exception of a very few characters such as Rex Harrison, in my fair Lady and Yul Brynner in the king and I, musicals are meant to highlight, superlative voices. I think most of the top 10 were truly terrible.

[@robinnugraha2869]

If you see from musical lovers pov of course these people cant be appreciated for their voice. But in movies, people look at the hollistic quality, face, performance, body gesture. I dislike butler singing quality but his look and charm makes us understand why we love the the phantom

[@firemaster432]

Gerard Butler was good in Phantom of the Opera...and also those notes aren't easy to pull off

[@eljordinio7647]

Compared to those who played the role on stage, butler is not even close

[@firemaster432]

@@eljordinio7647 true but honestly he did do a pretty good job in the role

[@eljordinio7647]

@@firemaster432 not good enough

[@ish_julierose5282]

Okay, just give the guy some slack. He trained hard, and msmojo made a video a few months ago that Gerard butler is a good singer. And Andrew Lloyd Webber himself said "this is my phantom" or something like that. Like you could do better 😒

[@eljordinio7647]

@@ish_julierose5282 his efforts were not nearly enough. Get someone like Michael Crawford, Ben Crawford, Anthony Warlow, Norm Lewis, Josh Piterman, Hugh Panaro Or Ramin who can actually sing the role and sing it well, and u have a phantom worth writing home about

[@mkelly534]

I have to disagree about Nipsey Russell I thought he was great in The Wiz and I enjoyed his musical numbers very much

[@laura-maejames3424]

I saw multiple interviews with Cameron Diaz for Annie and she always laughed when they asked about her singing, she knew and always stated that she's not a singer.

[@WrenFaithBridger]

I have always loved that Oliver Reed, who seriously can NOT sing, was cast in not 1 but 2 musicals! Tommy and Oliver! Granted, he didn't really sing in Oliver! but still... (He WAS an impressive Bill Sykes, anyway)

[@Demaad]

Am I the only one who enjoyed Russell Crowe’s songs on Les Miserables?

[@MrsJoeMama1]

Nope! You're not the only one. I really loved his performance as Javert!

[@Rayne_bloodshed]

You lost me with the slandering of Repo, that’s one of my favorite musicals

[@janbarrett4544]

I really liked Emma Watson singing as Belle...I'm not sure why she's on your list.

[@maddijasnyy]

Same! I thought she was great

[@julkasteven8198]

She is great. I wouldn't put her in this list.

[@quitequiet1]

I never thought Emma Watson singing was bad. When I saw the movie I thought it was quite pleasant.

[@julkasteven8198]

She was great. She is Singing wonderfully in Beauty and the Beast.

[@sharonhirschhorn1636]

Actually Lee Marvin singing Wandering Star fits his character, although I agree with the rest of your points, he was great

[@debsa-nonymous]

I wouldn't label any of them bad actually. I thought their singing fit the roles they were playing and judging their performance by how another did in the role doesn't sit right. They made the role their own and that's what actors do. I'm not a big fan of Tom Cruise's, but he ROCKED that role and the singing. I love the animated Beauty and the Beast, but Emma Watson did a great job both singing and acting. Let's face it, it's all subjective. When I look at all these roles, I can't see anyone else in them. By the way, most of these are on my rotation a few to several times a year. Rock of Ages is one of my feel-good movies.

[@maryjoyspohrer256]

I am so tired of people picking on Brando for in Guys and Dolls! He was wonderful! These performers were singing for their characters, and did wonderful jobs! Same with Emma Watson! It's not fair to compare to performers to each other! They all bring their own talents to their perspective rolls. Let them do so.

[@olvialee7221]

Emma Watson and Rebel Wilson I’m cool with but for the rest, I had no idea

[@rosiebargoed681]

I will fight anyone about “paint you wagon”. “Wandering Star” would not be what it is without Lee Marvin 😂😂😂

[@Breexbloodlust]

I love wandering stars

[@joannewilson1162]

I’ve seen several live productions of the Phantom of the opera and of course, none of those phantoms were Michael Crawford. Honestly Gérard Butler wasn’t terrible.