Following the debut of the latest season of the X-Factor, many took to Twitter and message boards to complain about the apparent use of autotune voice-enhancement on some contestants voices.
So much have such murmurings mounted, that the show’s bosses have moments ago admitted they did indeed use autotune for (…wait for it…) “necessary post-production work”…
Full story below…
Via BBC:
Fans had claimed after the opening show that “autotuning” had been used to improve some contestants’ voices.
It is used in recording studios to improve performances by correcting pitch and disguising off-key mistakes.
An X Factor spokesman said post-production work was necessary on the show due to the number of microphones used during filming.
“The judges make their decisions at the auditions stage based on what they hear on the day, live in the arena,” the spokesman added.
“The footage and sound is then edited and dubbed into a finished programme, to deliver the most entertaining experience possible for viewers.
“When it gets to the live shows, it will be all live.”
Fans took to The X Factor’s internet forums after the show to voice their concerns.
The focus of the debate surrounded 18-year-old contestant Gamu Nhengu, who sang Katrina and the Waves’ hit Walking On Sunshine.
After hearing her effort, judge Simon Cowell told her she was “really talented” before she was unanimously voted through to the next round.
But viewer Smstrat91 said: “Cannot believe they autotuned her, listen to the words ‘door’ and ‘telephone’ and it’s very clear. She’s so good as well, but obviously the producers of X Factor didn’t think she was good enough.”
The first episode of this year’s series was watched by 11.1 million people, up from last year’s figure of 9.9 million.
Dog doo-doo if I’ve ever seen or heard it. I mean really. What legitimate justification is there for the audience to hear something other than what the judges hear? After all it is a singing contest!
That said, perhaps it’s the masses fault for buying into the idea that such shows are reality, when in fact they are scripted (and/or heavily influenced by producers), with one of only a few possible outcomes.
Here’s hoping some real talent shines through the BS.