SYDNIE vs LOREN: Two powerhouse female vocals. Two Got Talent shows. One iconic song. Let's GO!

[@ThelSuperlKing]

I read the comments and I'd like to use different words or adjectives in presenting what I hear in both performances. Loren is the technical expert vocalist delivering the song with better and more complete vocal chops clinically. Often when you execute a song clinically emotions are sacrificed. Ideally you don't but not many can pull off clinical and deeply emotional side by side. Loren is much more a pro and a more seasoned vocalist which is no surprise because she has been in the business a lot longer as well as being 6 years older than Sydnie. In 2012 she came 12th in The Voice USA (also been on BGT and AGT as well sung in a movie blockbuster) so that's extensive singing experience at a high level. Loren was signed to quite a big record label at the age of 19 and is a graduate of a very prestigious music college in the USA (Berklee College of Music in Boston). Sydnie is the singer with more expressive vocals who doesn't just sing but lives the song and injects much more of herself into the song as she is much more aligned with living the lyrics of the song of chasing a dream over the rainbow. Indeed this is probably what draws people to Sydnie rather than Loren while Johan having the technical knowledge of vocal pedagogy who can appreciate the technical aspects of vocals leans towards Loren. As for me I want it all. I want the best of both worlds. I want a Loren and Sydnie mutant produced in a laboratory of extraordinary vocalists. Both great in their own right but combining the best qualities and elements of both will create a superwoman of a vocalist. The dream continues. The search goes on! Over the rainbow we go.

[@wajj1842]

Your description is terrific. So, my question is, why, with the vocal chops that Loren has (I totally love her), did she never make the finals of any show she entered? And Sydnie (who I also love) won the prize (probably wasn't even close). My take is that first, Sydnie is much more relatable for most people (funny, vulnerable, down-to-earth, easy to pull for). And second, she touches the emotions of the listener more with how she delivers the song(s). And what we "FEEL" from a singer is the most important part of any performance (IMO). That's why the audience continues to applaud long after she finishes. She is my all time favorite singer on any talent show, and I've seen many, because I can listen to her performances over and over and continue to FEEL deeply. I think Sydnie is going to be a SuperStar.

[@ThelSuperlKing]

@@wajj1842 Loren made BGT finals and was Top Ten (9th overall). People relate to free, honest and emotional over technical, polished and clinical everyday because you can't be ignorant about the emotions you feel feel but you can be ignorant about knowledge of technique. Feelings and emotions you cannot not feel it in your heart when you are touched but with knowledge when you don't have it you don't know what's going on in your head. Prowess of technique will make you a vocal expert. Depth of emotions a vocal artist. Loren also has performed a duet on Michael Buble's album in 2018.

[@rosegardenia3254]

OH YES, PLEASE! Put the techno & mutant super vocals together! I’ll buy!!!❤❤❤

[@wajj1842]

@@ThelSuperlKing Thanks for correcting me. I forgot that Loren made the finals on BGT. I was remembering that she wasn't in the final 3. That said, I found it amazing that someone as Super talented as Loren was denied the prize. I think a lot of people resented her professional background. And I would never imply that she was only technique. She was very capable of delivering strong feelings. However, I think that Sydnie is on another level when it comes to how she makes the audience Feel. For me, they are the 2 best singers Ever on any talent show. I hope they become good friends.

[@keithnewton2676]

I’m sure they will do a duet one day and what a performance that would be

[@harveylinda77]

I am 74 years old. Sidnie is a once in a generation talent. When I heard Lauren version, I was amazed at her technical skills. But that is not what makes you a star. What makes you a star is your emotional connection to the audience. My point is I felt Lauren, but I didn't cry. During Sidnie's rendition, I felt the song. I felt the emotion. I teared up a number of times, and then she had me. Over my years, very few performers have been able to do that to me. I believe that's the difference between great singers and great performers. Sidnie compares to the greatest performers in my time: Judy Garland, Barbara Streisand, and Whitney Houston. Only if she can reach their consistency and longevity will she be able to stand with them. She has the pipes, the personality, and the ability to draw you in emotionally. Those are the attributes that make a star. The main difference is that I love listening to Lauren sing, but I would buy Sidnie's albums.

[@lindaevery467]

I totally agree with you..

[@emmadevera4498]

I express same emotions with you! I just wish these people who keep on saying her winning is ‘fixed’ should come to reality!!! Sydney won!!!

[@mariettehamel12358]

I am 75 years old and you took the words from my mouth... If you wouldn't 't have said it, I would!!! The Magic of Sidney is to carry us into her songs with her... we become in fusion with the song and her. She has the charisma that subdues you, be it when signing or stage presence. Loren is the epitome of felinity, Sydnie has a little bit more "fire" into her personality. Her sensitivity goes into the extremes from strength/power to delicate like the skin of a new born. She is full of joy of life,, she bites into it full mouth... Loren is more a mature women that is settled.

[@TheProtestantPope]

"Sidnie compares to the greatest performers in my time: Judy Garland, Barbara Streisand, and Whitney Houston. " Potentially yes but in the technical department she needs more work. Emotionally though Sidnie trumps all of them.

[@rosegardenia3254]

🙉Goodness! You put into words EXACTLY how I felt for both Loren & Sydney! Indeed, they could be a very successful tandem in their vocal prowess! They could complement each other - hope I get to watch “a concert” featuring them both! ❤❤❤❤

[@PaulScowen]

If Loren was singing at a restaurant whilst you were on a date it’d be a lovely ambiance. If Sydnie was singing you’d have to stop chatting and pay attention to her

[@RobertIanTaylor]

Enjoyed your video. A couple of quick thoughts… Loren’s version of over the rainbow was actually used on Sydnie’s original audition video clip - little bit of unintentional foreshadowing. Sydnie shared on ‘This Morning’ (video clip on KZbin) after she had won BGT that she only had 3 days after the semi-final to choose a song for the final. She hadn’t thought about that as so much effort had gone into her version of My Way. Over the rainbow was suggested to her by the vocal coach for the show but she didn’t want to sing it as it was Loren’s song and she loved that version and didn’t want to copy it. Sydnie’s a fan of Loren. She was convinced to do it and Loren sent her a message wishing her good luck and giving her blessing to do the song. I’ve played both versions simultaneously to see the little differences and it’s clear that it’s the exact same backing track being used. I think Loren’s version is more polished, but Sydnie’s version feels more emotional to me so that’s my favourite. Not bad for only having 3 days to get it mastered ready for the final.

[@hookster8179]

Yes great update, Sydnie may not have been feeling well the three days, but have not heard her speak of it so take the salt. On one review of the two songs I understand why I like Sydnie over Loren's, and you stated it too, one is more emotional the other she was concentrationing on the next note.

[@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach]

Interesting... thanks for sharing!

[@roberthooton6606]

Wow...excellent comments in your evaluation & the section...in my humble opinion. Yes, Sydney's personality is adorably ' transparent '..lol. watched Loren sing this In a studio. Style aside, I sense Sydney has a somewhat bigger gun..lol...lil richer, bigger, rangier clarity of belt...again, age & style aside. Sydney protested singing this I understand, as Loren is her idol. 3 days,All their efforts were put into ' my way'...lol. Thank you for your review. RRH

[@emmadevera4498]

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[@emmadevera4498]

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[@fnickjacobsfache7877]

Sydnie, Sydnie, Sydnie…as a classically trained professional musician with advanced degrees, I must say, she brings the raw emotion to the forefront. She moved me deeply. I would go anywhere to hear her perform live.

[@asherfan798]

Both were fabulous but Lauren seemed totally professional and prepared where Sydnie seemed totally real and from the heart, a natural talent who feels every note in her heart before it reaches her head. No singer has ever affected me as Sydney has. If they were both performing in my city in two different places, I would stand in line for hours to hear Sydnie sing!!!

[@rosegardenia3254]

Yeah! Me too! Let Sydnie come to Sydney, soonest!!! ❤

[@jsfeinsmith]

They are both amazing natural talents and have an immense amount of vocal training. Sydnie is much better at altering her tone and expression of consonants and vowels to convey emotion. That surely comes from her musical theatrical experience and aspirations.

[@craigcampos]

I thought the best performance ever was Never enough by Lauren. Then Sydnie came and I’m telling you… she is by far the best singer ever. And honestly it isn’t close. Lauren is Amazing !! But wow. Sydnie makes you emotional when you listen to her. There is something about her that will change the world of music. I don’t care about technicalities unless it was obvious. Breaking the song down like this changes the emotional value. Lauren may be more technical but I don’t listen to music for that reason. I want to replay it over and over. I want to feel something. Sydnie does that WAY BEYOND anyone ever has to me.

[@AnonYmous-ry2jn]

Lauren has a lot of talent but Sydnie brings an epic larger-than-life quality to the song. And when I say epic, I mean not just grandeur and heroic proportions, I mean a work of art showing a human journey in a uniquely powerful, very particular yet completely universal way, on monumental scale. Each of Sydnie's performances so far has this quality. You get the first verse *gently* presenting exposition; then a development section leading to a climax; then a denouement. The climax here is "place where the DREAMS that you DARE to DREAM really DO come TRUE" ("True" magisterially closing out the section with the virtuoso falsetto pitch and the ornamented cadence). There are very vivid word pairings here: the way the second "DREAM" as an active verb picks up and transforms "DREAMS" (slightly lower energy, being a noun) and then the active verb DO (long u sound) is echoed by TRUE, which although being an inherently less energetic part of speech then the verb "do" grammatically might be weaker, since it's the word "true" in rakes on higher energy and power by signifying realization, actualization, a transcendence of mere fantasy. It becomes in her delivery an anthem of actualization and fulfillment and self-realization. By the time she belts out "why oh why can't"; it's as if she's literally shouting, pleading up toward the heavens (over the rainbow) -- which her SOARING voice seems to reach, as if smashing through a celestial threshold. and then the "I", also soaring but with a hint of vulnerability and sadness or wistfulness or melancholy of LONGING. By the way, the glories of her execution of "Do" and "True" are fully anticipated in the perhaps most piercingly, viscerally beautiful sound in the song "blue" in "skies are BLUE." In other words, you get a cumulative and detail-by-detail effect of pure RADIANT POWER from Sydnie that I'm afraid Lauren can't match, and a power which trivializes details like slit-second breath pauses or other technical minutiae. I'm sure those nuances entail enormous skill to pull off, but the Sydnie rendition is simply an experience that washes over you and pierces through your awe-struck ears directly into your heart giving a dopamine rush that almost sexual, drug-like and spiritual at the same time, like contact with something truly mysterious and glorious. Oh yeah, the way she delivers the word DARE (again, larger-than-life, the infused **heroic** - yet tender at the same time! - quality) ... I could go on and on: *EVERY DETAIL* is as magnificently sculpted and executed as it is thought-out, to achieve overwhelming aesthetic and emotional power.

[@jamesdettor6943]

Love you analogy and breaking down of the song Over the Rainbow. I loved the emotion Sydnie put in her singing. To me, that's what a singer is supposed to do...make us feel.

[@trevorkolmatycki4042]

When I watch Sydnie’s performances I get spontaneous dynamic goosebumps swirling and moving over 30% of the surface of my body like some strange mystical aurora borealis-esque energy that I cannot explain and for the record I am completely sober. But the stranger part is that I have watched it several times and this happens in varying degrees pretty much every time. When I watch Loren’s version I feel normal. I have no clue what this means. The other thing… after watching Sydnie’s 3 performances, I go back and watch previous favourite performances from various past talent show contestants and now their performances feel oddly dull or flat to me. Then I go back and re-watch one of the three Sydnie songs and it’s all tingles dancing over my body, all over again. I mean… what the heck? To become so smitten by an artistic performance is a rare, unique, and unusual experience… but I suspect that there must be many people also experiencing their version of this reaction to Ms. Christmas’ vocal art. Cheers everyone!

[@Jsizzle6809]

Same here! Lauren is technically wonderful but Sydnie makes me emotional. She has more dramatic effect that moves me which is why I listen to music

[@adamkohalmi7180]

100% agree with you! I have NEVER rewatched a performance time and again and been affected by it the same way as first view (or even more so). There is something ethereal and magical about Sydnies’ performances and persona that defies explanation.

[@emmadevera4498]

There’s millions of us feeling the same way!

[@emmadevera4498]

@@adamkohalmi7180 same here!!.Sydnei’s songs reverberate at my place non stop! Just don’t get tired listening to her!! I feel like I’m in a very tranquil place whenever I hear her singing!

[@cathrynkoz]

I’ve listened to her performances over and over and they’re not getting old! This has never happened before! She’s something truly special! ❤

[@Jsizzle6809]

The difference between the two for me is I get emotional and almost teary eyed with Sydnie.

[@simmonscarl1]

Loren’s version didn’t effect me the same way. I listened to it then thought that it was very well done. With Sydnie’s version I have listened too at least a dozen times. It just connects more emotionally. You can see it in her eyes that the song has special meaning to her. I don’t feel the same that with Loren’s version.

[@christinegodtmann4310]

Loren is really fantastic, but she did not touch me emotionally...and it sounds like in the 80 ies with Mariah Carey...I like much more the strong, clean and very emotionaly style from Sydnie!! She touches us - and that is what a singer should do ❤

[@edhickman2736]

Loren may be the better singer, but Sydnie is far and away the better performer. You could actually feel her emotions as she sang to the audience!

[@deortman]

A couple of observations on who sang it better (“Somewhere over the rainbow”) Sydnie Christmas or Loren Allred? First, they have both given stunning, beautiful performances of an extremely familiar song. They both did a tremendous job and preferences are very subjective. Loren Allred On AGT’s Fantasy League, Loren sang a near flawless cover of “Somewhere.” However, her history on talent shows was much was different from Sydnie’s. Loren was already an extremely accomplished professional singer who announced to the 2022 BGT judges and audience during her audition that she was the actual voice of “Never Enough.” Therefore, the BGT judges (including Simon) appeared gob smacked that she was now going to perform “Never Enough” for the judges and come out of the shadows. Allred presented herself, elegantly dressed, but as somewhat fragile and uncertain about stepping into the limelight. Sydnie Christmas In comparison, on 2024 BGT, Sydnie sort of bounces onto the stage for her first audition. Her personality is already infectious. She engages with the judges and audience, but her off-the street clothing and self-deprecating humor did not signal a successful audition. In fact, considering the tremendous expectation Simon Cowell and the BGT judges had for hearing Allred sing “one of the biggest songs of all time,” the context for Loren’s audition was completely different from that faced by Sydnie. Yes, it was later revealed that Sydnie had previous experience singing musical gigs, but Sydnie completely lowered expectations by announcing she was going to sing a song she hadn’t sung since she was four years old. Ha! And then to announce that she was going to sing “Tomorrow,” from Annie, only to have Simon hold his head, roll his eyes, and be told that it was Simon’s least favorite song. You’re 28 years old and have just been told that the chief judge absolutely hates your song choice before you’ve even started. Well, no pressure there. Buuuuuut. We’re never told who arranged this version of “Tomorrow,” or whether Sydnie had previously performed this version, elsewhere. At least no video clips have so far surfaced. Obviously, this was NOT the version of “Tomorrow” Sydnie sang as a four-year old! This was a carefully crafted one-of-a-kind arrangement and performance well thought out with a bit of jazzy-blues insertions and bended flats you would never hear from a four-year old (or a 10-year-old Annie). Another curious thing about this BGT presentation is the way BGT cut and presented Sydnie’s golden buzzer performance. Curious that after her rendition, and as part of Sydnie’s golden buzzer moment, “Somewhere over the rainbow” played out, with dramatic swells and diminishments all the way to Sydnie exiting to greet her family to the final words of “why, oh, why, can’t I?” There were some comments that these “Somewhere” vocals were her own from the BGT finals, but could they have been (ironically) Loren Allred’s version? Still, BGT took a lot of care and thought into post-editing Sydnie’s audition and golden buzzer performance. Again, as has been revealed, Sydnie Christmas did not just walk out on the BGT stage and dredge up by memory a song she had last sung when she was four years old. But, after the accolades and golden buzzer confetti, as she walks off the stage she sticks her right hand in her pants pocket. Now who does that? Calculated? You tell me. Perhaps it was an extremely effective way of lowering expectations and going back to an oh, shucks, persona. “Somewhere, over the rainbow” As has been noted, both Sydnie and Loren sang the same song, same version, in the same key. Who sang it better? A few observations. Loren’s version was perhaps more technically pure. For music critics this is sometimes the music measurement: How close does a singer get to the standard (or altered standard)? Loren’s version is bright and precise. Sydnie, who clearly put her own stamp on “Tomorrow” and “My Way”, sang a “Somewhere” version that was a bit more raw, a few more bends and tweaks used. A few pre-BGT videos of Sydnie’s singings have popped up. While good, they do not foreshadow the control or incredible belting capability of her voice, especially in the BGT final. During her time on BGT, Sydnie disclosed that she worked hard with a BGT vocal coach. Especially, after choosing to do Loren’s version of “Somewhere.” All to say, that Loren already had years of exquisite singing under her “belt” (pun intended), but seemingly lacked confidence to go solo. Sydnie, at 28, had some catching up to do and apparently was successful enough that she announced that she would use at least some of her BGT winnings to continue paying the BGT vocal coach. In other words, Loren already had the chops to effortlessly deliver “Somewhere,” while Sydnie had to work to get there. A couple of other subjective things. Sydnie has a great lower range. You could hear that immediately when at the BGT audition she was asked if being a front at a gym was what she wanted to do, she laughed and then gave this low lyrical “Nooooo.” She went with a few low lyrical swells in “Tomorrow” as well. While both singers have incredible high ranges, Sydnie’s lower range was very impressive. Loren’s diction was impeccable. Perhaps due to nerves, Sydnie’s diction occasionally became a bit mudded. And both singers could take in enormous breaths of air, without being obvious about it. When watching a Stevie Nicks video, Nicks will stand at the mic with her legs very far apart as if she needs her legs to help her do her belting. Loren and Sydnie both are able to stand straight in front of the mic with their feet together pointing straight ahead. Loren has a bit more leg separation, but it is amazing that Sydnie in particular can ground herself on stage so effortlessly with all that belting coming from her core with her feet so close together. Finally, it would have been nice to have given Israel Kamakawiwo'ole credit for writing and singing this version of “Somewhere.” And, perhaps someone can inquire who wrote the version of "Tomorrow" that Sydnie sang. Brilliant and someone needs to be given credit!

[@Vertigo0715]

I feel Loren is the more polished singer. But I think Sydney has more raw talent and sings with more emotion. Both are incredible. It’s really a matter of personal preference but I enjoyed Sydney’s version a bit more.

[@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach]

Yep, seems like that's how most people feel 😊

[@emmadevera4498]

@@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach including millions of us!!!

[@julieann6249]

Hi Johan, I so appreciate your candor and expertise. As a vocalist myself, I love both performances. It seems this song is like an ‘old friend’ to Loren, that she truly has it in her bones. She delivers it expertly and flawlessly. Her pitch is always right in the center - fantastic. Modulation is very exciting. Sydnie’s performance sounds a bit more ‘spontaneous’, though I suspect every note was crafted long before delivery. It is perhaps more ‘fresh’ and emotive, and not as flawless. I was moved by both perfomances for different reasons. There’s always room for excellence at the top. Thank you. I’ve never been inspired to offer an opinion before. I always look forward to your analyses. Julie Ann Caselli

[@jamesdettor6943]

I am 61 years old. I sang when i was in my late teens and early 20s. I joined the army and after 21 years, i retired. After that leagth of time in the military, the teenager and 20 year old singing voice i had was long gone. I still try and "carry a tune" but its not like my younger voice. But when i have and still can recognize a great singer. Yes, Loren's voice is curvy and polished. Her ability to continue to flow through the words of a song with one breath, is amazing and talented. Also, I can obviously tell she is comfortable singing. I can tell she has worked and practiced diligently on her craft. I mean, when the leading actress in the Greatest Showman state that Loren should sing the track in the movie and she would lip sing. I have to know, that that actress recognized Loren's amazing singing voice. Loren was on contract not to sing until a number of years had past after the release of the Greatest Showman. When she appeared on BGT, this was her time to begin her career in song. The way Syndie sings. Her voice inflections, gliding thru the notes, and breaking up of words in the sond, draws me in and i'm anxiouly waiting for the next word that comes from her vocals. Her soft and high register of words are vocally clear to me. Her soft, almost whispery, vocals are mystical and mesmerizing. Drawing me in. Her high register and power are magestcally soothing. When she sings, i can hear the emotion she has with the song. To me, that is what I iove about any singer, the emotion they present is what makes me feel their singing. And isn't that what a singer is supposed to do, Make us feel. I'm an eclectic consumer of music, but when a singer sings and makes me feel the song being sung, i listen to that singer. So, yes, both Loren and Sydnie are beautiful singers with their own dynamics to singing. They are both confident singers. I just prefer Sydnie's dynamics of singing, along with the way she relates to people. Funny, humorous, making me feel comfortable. But, for me, when she sings, i can hear that she's all in, heart, mind, and soul. So set back and enjoy the sounds of her singing. God bless

[@CAPTALISM]

Music is meant to make you feel something. Judging by that alone Sydnie is the clear winner.

[@GilHB]

Considering Sydney was recovering from an infection, she did amazingly well. Judging from her emotional facial expression at the end, I think she was not happy with a few mistakes she knew she made like the missed word and the three breaths. But her performance was so good, the audience did not notice or did not care. IMHO

[@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach]

Yep, she connects with people! Thanks for your comment 😊

[@hookster8179]

That facial expression at the end, Was her Vocal coach whispering into her ear " You nailed it Girl "

[@reddragonready]

IMO that is a rumor being spread now. I watched her interviews..there were only 3 days between semi and finals..haven't heard her say anything about a virus

[@briandunbar8749]

To be candid, I have watched all 3 of Sydnie's performances numerous times and have an understanding of what she is capable of, while this is the only viewing that I have of Loren. FYI, in an interview, Sydnie said that the producers suggested this song AND this arrangement for her third performance! She was hesitant because it had been done, and done so well by Loren, whom she admires. I like Sydnie's performance better for many of the reasons others have stated, but a big part is the tonal color variations that she has. She goes from soft and round to loud and open in a heartbeat. Yes, more suited for musical theater than maybe the concert stage, but that is what grabs my attention, what moves me and touches me emotionally. Loren tends to have that perfect pitch, perfect tone, measured dynamics, etc., which is fantastic, but Sydnie reaches out in such a way that I feel that she is feeling those words and emotions, and because she feels them, so do I. In other words, she seems connected, so, so do I. While Loren hits these long notes in one breath, Sydnie tends to push more power with such clarity.

[@craigcampos]

I also bet Sydnie will sell out her shows faster because of how she connects with her audience

[@kevdraycott3748]

Sydnie version of the song to me is far more emotional as it brings tears to your eyes, where i don't find Lauren's version as moving. It might be that it just feels like it's another standard experienced professional performance. ALL 3 of sydnie's performances were incredibly moving. Kev from England. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@jananduncan7153]

this is great to get to hear them together! I knew when I heard Sydnie sing it that it was Lauren's arrangement....then...Lauren posted on social media that Sydnie had used her arrangement...and sounded pleased by it. In an interview with Sydnie after the final performance where she won the season....she said she is a huge fan of Lauren Allred...someone suggested a collaboration of the two singers and Sydnie said she would love that....wouldn't that be amazing !?

[@gregvanhook8102]

Being a powerful singer myself I prefer the raw power of Sydney. She was also a bit more creative with notes in her version than was Lauren. When I first heard Lauren I was thrilled with her ability. Both are incredible singers.

[@mikeyitfc]

I don't really care who done it best, it's not a competition each performer is unique in their own way and music is about preferences. Different people prefer different artist so neither out performed one another.

[@ps5andstuffhere]

Christmas different level

[@deortman]

To partially answer my own question below, the version of "Tomorrow" that Sydnie sang in her golden buzzer audition was performed back in 2020 at a ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE, by Marisha Wallace (search KZbin for the video). Still doesn't identify who was the original arranger, but clarifies that this version has been around for a couple of years.

[@fredchua7983]

Loren sings, Sydnie reaches

[@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach]

Wow, that's a great way of saying it 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@emmadevera4498]

@@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach sydnei connects from within, Loren from a distance!

[@stac3426]

Thanks for doing this!

[@martinmunkonge8188]

There's no comparison between the sun and the moon. They shine when it's they're time ❤✨ Loren, it's never enough to describe how fantabulous you're 🤩 Sydnie you'll never stop being a beautiful rainbow and how magnificent you're 😍 Sometimes we've to put ourselves in their shoes and see if we can even try to do that this two beautiful ladies give to us. I can't compare the two coz it's like choosing between the heart and lungs. And no one can live without either both of the organs

[@Blueridge1961]

Singing is not just about singing technique. I'm sure you would be really great as a hearing aid acoustician, however, if someone is not able to "hear" with his heart, how can he be a vocal coach? There's absolutely no doubt that also Loren is a fantastic singer, but she's much more experienced than Sydnie. And the most important thing that you neglect, is the fact that Sydnie has won over millions of people with her personality, her emotional approach to singing these songs. Some of the commenters below rightfully stated, that she "touched their hearts"... Does this in no way influence your judgement? Alisha Dixon correctly stated that it's the job of a singer "to make us feel something"...

[@avonleanz]

Thanks for this excellent video. It answered a question I that was bugging me when I was watching the "road to winning" video on YT. After Sydnie gets the golden buzzer in the audition, BGT plays "Over the Rainbow" through the montage of her celebration and meeting her family. When I heard it was her finale song I wondered if the whole thing was "pre-recorded" but if they used Lauren's version from AGT, which occurred prior, then that makes sense.

[@CAGFinformationsource]

I agree with most. I loved Sydnie’s emotional, theatrical connection with the heart. Both have unique vocal cords; excellently done. I also loved Sydnie’s charisma and Loren’s professional attitude. I hope neither change their personality.

[@cyprianuslilikk.p.7937]

Sydnie's version is more touching and dramatic for me, therefore I'm more on her.

[@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach]

Thanks for sharing 😊

[@Rosannasfriend]

That’s not fair. Loren gave me a lot of warmth and feelings as well. Maybe Sydni gives you more but that doesn’t mean Loren doesn’t give those things as well.

[@davidbarrass5210]

With Sydnie I think that she has a warmer tone.

[@cyprianuslilikk.p.7937]

@@Rosannasfriend well, basically this is my own opinion. You dont have to follow or agree with my personal opinion. It is good to have your own and surely I respect yours.

[@Trumpallthewayperiod]

They are both highly trained professionals. I love them both. ❤

[@CharlesPryor-ic9ek]

An FYI. Sydnie commented about her performance on a morning show after her win. She only had three days to prepare for her final performance. It was suggested to her to do Lorens version of Over the Rainbow. Sydnie did not want to do the song, as Loren is her idol. Well, Loren sent Sydnie a video chat, suggesting that she should perform her version. Sydnie agreed and her BGT coach went to work working the song a bit for Sydnie to put her touch on the song. Sydnie gave her BGT coach raving reviews, referring that the BGT coach helped her more than the three years she spent at college. Johan, I thought that was a cool way you presented both, Loren and Sydnie for their performances. I loved Lorens word annunciation which was flawless. She has a lung capacity and control that is magical. Her voice definitely has that golden flair throughout her performance. I loved Sydnie's performance also, seeing she only had 3 days to prepare. Some of her vocals were not clear to me. I think she has the lung capacity, but her control was a little bit off by the breaks in some spots. If I was to compare performance in my limited understanding of the science of music to say champagne. Loren's performance was equal to the quality of a $10,000 bottle of bubbly, and Sydnie's was at an $8,000 bottle. Johan, thanks for all your educational tips! On edit, I did pick Sydnie to win, BGT, into the first verse of her Tomorrow! I come here because Johan helps my understanding of the concepts of " BECAUSE", and the whys someone is great or poor!

[@AndrewStormStorywizard1948]

While Vocal Coaches pour over the styling of Somewhere Over The Rainbow or Over The Rainbow as it is also known, I want to acknowledge the men who wrote the iconic song. Composer Harold Arlen and Lyricist Yip Harburg composed Over The Rainbow for the film The Wizard of Oz. Its just a songwriter, composer, lyricist thing of mine. Credit where credit is due.

[@liviamon]

Before I comment I have to say I do not know anything about technicalities of singing. So my comment is simple, how their voices make me feel. I love both singers, I watched both at their competitions (tv presentation). Sidney felt more down to earth while Loren was more staged.

[@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@emmadevera4498]

Sydnei by miles away!!!

[@VillanovaFan]

To me My Way was Sydnies best. That was her arrangement.

[@wilsoch]

Loren has an amazing voice, but her singing has always sounded a bit robotic to me --- she will sing a song 10 times, and each will be exactly the same. The emotions she tries to convey seem rehearsed and a bit affected. Sydnie seems to channel emotions more naturally; her performances are more raw. The timbre of Sydnie's voice -- the way it sounds -- is also much prettier, in my view; more rounded, warmer, and unique.

[@Rosannasfriend]

She is more musical theater, of course that’s why the emotions are more obvious. And as for Loren, not being more famous, that’s because the type of singer she is hasn’t been successful in more than two decades. She should’ve been around during the era of the big divas in the 90s.

[@wilsoch]

@@Rosannasfriend I didn't mean to imply, by the way, that Loren isn't amazing -- she is truly a spectacular singer. I just feel a better connection with Sydnie.

[@aclarkinnc6180]

Thanks for this. Excellent comparison. I can't find fault with you giving a slight edge to Loren's version to the extent it is more polished yet still very powerful. Yet, I give the edge to Sydnie's slightly "rawer" version which I find a more passionate and moving.

[@lindievera8109]

For me there is a difference between singing and performing,and what will I be willing to pay for. Lauren doesn't sell. Sydney is GREAT!

[@adros1420]

good efforts so that we as normal layman able to value each song arrangement

[@ibeetellingya5683]

My take on Sydney is that she provides exceptionally appealing authenticity, informality,and stage presence aiding connection with the audience, as well as exceptional power and technique. Alfred, in contrast, is very proficient and lovely.

[@JeannetteMacintyre]

Sidnie,but love Lorren also,very hard to decide

[@donnaharvey7466]

Sydnie does something with 8:20 her vowels sounds kinda like Julie Garland. Her voice has personality

[@simonemengacci9265]

Hi everyone, in fact if you search on KZbin, there is an interview with Sidney who states that Loren helped her perform the song, therefore it is the same song, personally I am fascinated by both, as Loren lives in New York, therefore his English and more American, ringing, Sidney being English and softer and warmer in the language, but they are at a stellar level, together with Dimash I think they are the best of recent years.

[@denisemartin8882]

If you want to hear Never Enough by a singer you probably have never heard of but who blows Loren out of the water - listen to Morissette Amon from the Philippines on the Wish Bus (the Asian Phoenix) ... she is sitting down and she sings with no embellishment or auto tune (she is able to sing in whistle tone - Akin Ka Na Lang). Both of these ladies have lovely voices but Sydnie blows Loren out of the water on the "emotional connection" scale.

[@goldenlizard00]

I'd like to put in a bit of context. The arrangement has been made, tailored, for Loren. You can listen to her discographic version of this song on her channel where you can see the musicians playing for her. And the result is even better than this AGT performance. Loren sings as a perfectionist, so I agree that technically her version is better. Sydnie declared that she received the task of performing this very arrangement by BGT and she waited for Loren's approval (!) before accepting it. She said that she worked on tailoring My Way on her vocal capacity and she worked for Over the Rainbow in a very short time, compared to her semifinal. And yet. And yet emotionally what I get from Sydnie is really much more than from any other singer at the moment. I cannot really explain why, but I'd go for how her soul communicates with mine. So my preference goes to her. Now a detail. In phrasing "somewhere" immediately after the key change "some" is perfectly audible in Sydnie's version (so I disagree with you) while "where" is cleaner in Loren's version (but it's not perfect even for her).

[@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts - we appreciate it 🤗

[@Neil-z7n]

All technical differences aside, Loren’s version made me sigh - but Sydnie’s made me cry! 🥲And that made all the difference.

[@HouseAbout7990]

Loren is actually Sydnie's idle and when it was suggested that she sing Loren's version of the song she hesitated, thinking she couldn't do it justice. Loren was contacted and actually sent Sydnie a video encouraging her to sing it. Glad she did.

[@PerlitaDungca]

I like your evaluation of these 2 ladies, you and I used the word sophisticated to describe Loren's style of singing. Somehow my description of loud and full to describe Sidney's style is close to your "raw"

[@paulrichmond9720]

The best version of My Way for me is sung by Tom Jones in his prime. And until now I didn't think it could be bettered. But Syd nailed it to the wall both in power and emotion. She's a huge star in the making with the right guidance. I haven't been moved by a singer like that in a long time. ❤

[@reddragonready]

Has anyone checked whether one or both or neither shows applied pitch correction? Just wondering because I also watch wings of Pegasus channel and understand many tvshows use it standard ( even on singers who don't need it) Maybe the difference is best described by English culture in popular music v American? I definitely prefer Sydnie exactly because it is less "polished style"..because it is a more emotional performance. It is for the same reason I, on the classical violin, vastly prefer Anne-Sophie Mutter over Hilary Hahn or Janine Jansen. Why I prefer Cecilia Bartoli over singers supposedly singing bel canto more "correct'

[@YoutubeEnjoyerz]

technique wise loren is far more professional and she is my favorite singer as well, but I cant deny the fact that sydnie feels different when she sang it, I didn't feel it the way loren sing it. I feel like im about to cry but i can't... that feeling.

[@victorbradshaw7359]

Funny how I thought about Loren being more polished myself I actually would chalk that up to her career up until now where she was the vocal lead for others to follow ty for this breakdown I'd never even considered this before ty again

[@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach]

Thanks for your feedback 😊

[@nancylovestink1]

This version of Over The Rainbow is Loren's version. She took the version of that Hawaiian guys version and made it her own. Loren actually commented on Sydney's performance! It was very sweet!

[@jtphenom0811]

I liked Sydnie's version more because I heard more of HER in it. It felt like she was communicating with us what is inside of her and the movements in her soul.

[@nancyblockcolsky1387]

Sydnie made it clear she was singing Loren’s arrangement. I’m not the biggest fan of Loren’s use of the breathy sound. I also liked Sydnie’s ending better than Loren’s. Both are amazing. Thanks so much for this side by side comparison.

[@RealFaithRealActionPeterD]

I agree with your summary, I however would favor Sydney purely because of her natural stage presence. You described it as “raw” and I would explain Lauren as “finessed”. But again, wow!!!! Great singers both. Thanks for a super interesting channel 👊

[@127baltic]

Hi...Sydnie was to pick 3rd song in 3 days for final. She was not entirely in favour of the Rainbow but BGT coach persuaded. She then did her best via Loren (good for her) but Loren had plenty of time based on her earlier personal decision. I wish Sydnie had picked her own. Wasn't my favourite for her. But well done, none the less. Ciao

[@LCNazarene]

I felt Sydnie was battling with nervousness, which made her performance more heroic - so I was more emotionally affected.

[@JohnAllego]

Agree with your analysis. Technically- Loren, Soulfully- Sydnie

[@parisbay5325]

Found you by accident, but have subscribed. Enjoyed the video and how you explained everything. I liked both Sydnie and Loren, but I think I preferred Loren a little more too. She's a bit older than Sydnie and so I think maybe it's because she has more experience she presented the song better, would that be right? More finished? Either way I'd happily listen to either. I was though a little disappointed that Sydnie did sing the same as Loren for the final, maybe would have liked to have heard something different as soon as the music started for her to sing, my first thought was it's the same as Loren sang. Maybe it was suggested to her?

[@lawrenceb5236]

She only had 3 days between the semifinals and the finals, and yes, BGT suggested she sing it as the backing track was already available.

[@deanstevens4458]

Sydnie was hampered by the fact that after she won her semi-final she had three days to work up a song for the finals. BGT wanted her to do the "Over the Rainbow" arrangement and Sydnie was really unsure about it since Loren was one of her idols. She said in an interview that Loren sent her a video offering all her support and good wishes. So I believe some of the technical aspects that you mentioned came from short prep time and an attempt to try and put her own stamp on the song. I think both performances are products of the artists and their experiences and I love them both.

[@my.business]

*Sydnie did not want to do the song because she saw Loren do it & loves her.....but it was Loren herself that video messaged her to do it. And this is what we got.* (Btw, both are golden buzzer girls of the same judge on BGT.)

[@NeilLebeau]

I heard in an interview with Sydnie that she idolozes Lauren. Knowing that the arrangement makes a lot of sense to me. Some of the differences are an effort to make it hers not a cover of Lauren's.

[@davidbarrass5210]

Bear in mind that Sydnie had only 3 days to learn and rehearse this arrangement which bgt ie Simon suggested she sang, as they already had the music on file.

[@davidfowler4807]

Well if you want to hear someone hold a note.. try Barbra Streisand 23 seconds at the end of Yental…THE BEST

[@italobianconico]

Both destroy me with this crazy versions. Love it❤

[@cygnus6623]

Lauren is a professional high level singer with incredible talent. I see her as one that is given sheet music and given small room for embellishment. Flawless pitch and pop inspired flare. Sydnie was/is more of a stage performer where she had to be solid as well, but was given more room for individuality. She is not perfect, can be spot on when she wants to be.

[@es5266]

I like both and Sydnie and Loren but I was felt much more emotionally connected with Sydnie's version of this song. I listened to both when they were initially performed and liked them then. However, just like when I listened to Sydnie's version of Tomorrow she just draws me in much more emotionally - I can feel it.

[@nancylovestink1]

She did an interview and said she was not happy about her performance of Over The Rainbow. She told her family backstage that she did a terrible performance

[@pstaehlin]

Great review! I agree, both performances were amazing. But in their own way of course. In that first part with Loren I have to disagree that it was in one breath. Though, I'm not the professional here. 🙂 I feel that Loren's transition into each lyric is a bit on the smoother side between the breaths that she takes. This really shows off her control in her voice as she sings. However, I feel Loren in her body language was a bit on the stiffer side. Syndie, I believe, is much more theatrical in her motions and seems to be able to really compliment that through her voice very very nicely. I feel that Syndie has a much more powerful voice all around. For me, it doesn't really matter whether or not each performer can or cannot sing different lyrics in one breath. I base each performance on how it MOVED me in my heart. Syndie to me pulled this off masterfully! Therefore, my vote goes to Syndie. Again, thank you for your detailed analysis. I've learned a lot out of comparison video.

[@nacmydna]

Sydnie, didn't want to sing that song in the final, it was the production team that pushed her to sing it. Loren is her hero.

[@andrewmoniz8229]

Both were great versions of over the rainbow. Loren aldred is her idol. Loren gave her permission to sing her version. BGT vocal coach changed it enough to make it her own in away. Another stunning performance by Sydnie. It's in an interview she did. As you said it depends on what you like. Both versions are amazing to me not one is better in than the other. Sydnie is more if a Broadway big theatre stage performance were Lorens was more of a can't think of the word but different. These two amazing women hopefully this opens the door for Sydnie now and no more part time theatre stage shows.

[@keithmarshall3371]

This version was produced and arranged by loren , simon and his team , for AGT , Sydney although not as polished sings from the heart , hopefully she gets a fantastic vocal coach and the team to improve her singing techniques, but not change her too much .

[@paulmilligan83]

Both versions are good, but Loren's is the one for me. I just respond more to Loren's vocal and her performance style. She has one of the most beautiful vocal tones and astonishing breath control, and that's not to mention her incredible range and belting technique. Just so unbelievably gifted. I actually preferred Sydnie's performance of My Way to her Over The Rainbow.

[@Incognito-----------]

After listening to both...Loren's version and the way she sang it seemed more for a record label. as for Sydnie and the way she sang it is more for theater. If that makes sense. Both are fantastic, but To me Sydnie's voice seems more powerful and gave me chills just listening to her voice more than Loren did.

[@Rosannasfriend]

I don’t think her voice is more powerful, but is definitely a bit rounder and richer, has a lot to do with the vowels that she chooses, even though they both use round vowels, I think that Sydnie places her voice lower as well

[@Jsizzle6809]

I agree I think Sydnie has a more powerful voice. Conveys more emotion too. No doubt Lorin is amazing though

[@CarloRodriguez10]

Both amazing singers! let’s not compare them because each singer is special somehow and has something to offer. I like both versions, but Loren a little more! BUT that doesn’t take away a bit of the greatness of Sydney’s performance

[@greeneyes92061]

I am old enough to be both Loren and Sydnie’s mother. I can’t sing. I can’t play an instrument. I can’t read music. I can play the radio. As someone who doesn’t know anything about music. EXCEPT the ONE most important thing for me….. I know how a song makes me feel. For me it is Sydnie all the way. She is relatable, humble, funny, and down to earth. She puts more feeling/emotion into her singing.She could be my daughter, my friend, my next door neighbor. Loren, when she sings, comes across as being on a higher more “sophisticated” level than I care for. I can feel that she’s trying to be perfect….not just herself, but perfect. Again just my opinion as someone who can’t carry a tune in a bucket but I know what I like and what moves me.

[@corky344]

I listen to Loren's version of Over the Rainbow, and I like best. Then I listen to Sydnie's version and hers is the best. For me the bottom line is, they both have incredible voices and both versions are great. Loren's is more polished and Sydnie's is more powerful. I would love to see them do a duet. How awesome would that be

[@gene6717]

I love both women. The difference for me in the beginning is, Sydnie’s broken spacing of the words caused me to think about raindrops whereas, I didn’t think that with Lauren’s. I should have prefaced that with I watched both performances live. Sydnie injects emotion into her songs a little more than Lauren does, for me. Lauren seems smoother in her delivery however, I’m not a fan of the whisper where I have to strain to hear the words. If I had to choose one, I imagine I prefer the bolder sound and would give the edge to Sydnie but, it’s just the thinnest of edges. They both can bring me to tears.

[@LHG-b9b]

Well... It's so hard to compare the two. As both are superb in their own ways. We should just accept both of them are a fantastic singer / performer. There is no one who is better than the other. Hence, we just relax and enjoy their performance. Period.

[@softshallow7435]

Loren’s transitions are smoother. But Syndnies are raw which i prefer.

[@luchesartomov]

Both are great singers and they will sing together

[@DavidM-f5b]

I feel like you're comparing apples and oranges when Lauren sings she sings with the band when Sydney sings as an actress playing the part. So she invokes the emotions she feels the character would feel

[@gracecawrse6826]

Can you please confirm if Jenifer Lopez can sing ?

[@michaeljames52]

Isn't it amazing that both singers won BGT singing the same song, it does make it sound kind of planned by the producers, however, for me, the difference is Sidney brought great emotion and on top of that is a great personality. Don't get me wrong, Loren is a great singer which she proved with "Never Enough." Loren also stated that she made the decision to enter because she wanted to come out from behind the scenes, and yet in 2012, she appeared on "The Voice" in America, it was after that she got the gig on "The Greatest Showman." For the judges to act surprised that they were not aware of The Greatest Showman was another act, that being said, it was a combination of a great voice and personality that brought Sidney to the top of the game, and on this song, Sidney was at the top of her game, her overall belts were better than Loren and her high notes clearer and better which gives her the thumbs up.

[@paintandpinotinperth7868]

Loren didn’t win BGT. Sydnie is the first solo performer without a dog to actually win 💕

[@craigcampos]

lol. After watching this. Lauren May sung it technically better based on you breaking it down note for note. I would walk 50 miles in a snow storm and wait in line for 3 days to goto a Sydnie concert. I would drive to the arena and wait a few hours for Lauren. And mind you… I have been to maybe 2 concerts in my 55 years.

[@mariettehamel12358]

Loren is much more "experienced" than Sydnie that just begins... The Magic of Sidney is to carry us into her songs with her... we become in fusion with the song and her. She has the charisma that subdues you, be it when signing or just on stage presence. Loren is the epitome of felinity, Sydnie has a little bit more "fire" into her personality. Her sensitivity goes into the extremes from strength/power to delicate like the skin of a new born. She is full of joy of life,, she bites into it full mouth. She is a "young performer" and a young women, I am eager to see into what she will "bloom! ... Loren is more a mature women that is settled that is in full bloom. But both are AMAZING!!! If I may dare a symbolic analogy: One would be "The Virgin Mary", the other would be "The Holy Mary"

[@Neil-z7n]

For me, Loren’s version is heard, whereas Sydnie’s is heard and felt. 🥲

[@louiseanderson4779]

Sydney character is beautiful which shows in her singing but Loren has the control breath and feeling both amazing though ⭐️🧡

[@JeanneJ01]

Love them both

[@tmon6219]

Sydnie had 3 days to learn to perform the song her coach contacted Loren and she gave permission and encouraged Sydnie to use the arrangement

[@its_just_me_acb]

It was suggested that Sydnie sing this and Loren told Sydnie she agreed it was a good idea. I guarantee it was Simon’s idea. Loren sounded more pop ish, which I strongly dislike, so nothing unique. I think she’s better in a recording studio than live. Especially with her big belts. It sounds more forced and strained live. She also saves her biggest moments for the end. She doesn’t maintain the same power throughout a song, in my opinion. She’s too breathy sometimes. Loren also has mispronounced words, like “shimney” for chimney. She can be more clear though bc she didn’t go as big at the point where she went down and Sydnie went up. I’m not in awe of Loren. Sydnie boggles my mind when she fills a whole building with sound.

[@lawrenceb5236]

The version Loren sings in Sydnie’s audition is the studio version, not the live one from AGT.

[@its_just_me_acb]

@@lawrenceb5236 she was singing it live there in the video

[@lawrenceb5236]

@@its_just_me_acb I’m talking about after Sydnie finished singing in her AUDITION , not what Johan played in this video comparison.

[@shadoeworks6911]

A big thing Sydnie is is warm, friendly voice, and you want to pay attention and she makes you feel the story and you want to be there. Loren is great but I don't get the chills like I do with Syd.🙂

[@BritoAraujo-pz5hi]

As duas são maravilhosas 😍😍

[@DavidM-f5b]

As such I think that Sydney's voice Carrie's for me much more emotion and is a voice that I have not heard in a very long time and very seldom get to experience. Lauren is a very very good technical singer Sydney brings it and brings the audience along with her

[@Jamienomore]

There were actually 3, not 2. in the 2023 BGT was 11 year old Olivia lynes. He Audition song was Defying Gravity. Her next song was Into The Unknown.

[@markbaker2826]

I Love Sydnie but on a couple of phases couldn't clearly hear the word & on the last note thought she had already sung "i" ?? whereas Lorens version you could hear every "T" pronounced, but emotionally & how it moved me my fave was Sydnie " A Diamond in the Rough !"