February 27, 2008

Who are you performing for?



Here's another interesting example from American Idol of a performer who has a completely different perception of himself than the audience (or at least different from the judges - but I have to assume that if all three judges agree, then many viewers must agree as well). That's not to say he's right or the judges are right, but I wonder if Robbie Carrico has watched himself perform.

He wants to be perceived as a rocker, yet the judges refuse to indulge him. In last night's performance, I think I saw part of what was missing.

Robbie performs to and for himself. His eyes are closed throughout much of his song. When his eyes are open, he's looking up to the ceiling. He doesn't interact with the audience - he doesn't even look at the tv camera.

He doesn't exude the kind of self-assuredness and showmanship that I expect from a rocker dude. He's not workin' the audience at all.



(If you can't see it, click here to go to the video on YouTube.)

Contrast that performance with the judges' "approved" rocker, David Cook. When at the mic, he performs directly to the camera. Twice he walks out and sings to the audience, encouraging them to join in.



(If you can't see it, click here to go to the video on YouTube.)

If you want to connect with your audience and make an impact, you must perform for them, not for yourself.

This, of course, doesn't just apply to rocker dudes. It applies to every performer, including speakers. Who are you performing for?

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4 comments. Please add yours! :

Anonymous said...

One of the reasons why I like Van Halen (even though I've never seen them live, I've seen their live performances) is that they engage the audience. They look at people, point at people etc. etc.
David Lee Roth is the ultimate showman.

Lisa Braithwaite said...

I know you're a big VH fan, Jacki, and David Lee Roth definitely knows a thing or two about engaging the audience!

Anonymous said...

The first guy has nothing going for him. He is boring, inward focused, and has completely forgotten about the audience. I used to play in a rock band for a few years, and you have to play to your audience, they are not watching the show. Without them there is nothing - the audience is part of the show.

Exactly the same applies when speaking from the platform.

Craig

ps: if you are interested, my band's website is here. Tuesdays Child

Lisa Braithwaite said...

You're so right, Craig. Without the audience, a performer or speaker is nothing!

By the way, if you're not watching, Robbie Carrico was voted off last night.

I'll check out your band's website!

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