The Underdog
Although hardly considered new, one of my favorite internet videos is Susan Boyle auditioning for Britain’s Got Talent. The video has garnered millions of views since it first appeared in 2009. While I can appreciate her voice even though it is different from the voices of artists I am accustomed to, this is not why I enjoy the video. There are plenty of talented singers on youtube who I enjoy listening to more than Susan Boyle. However, it is the surprise of the judges and audience that capture my attention. Personally, I am a huge fan of motivational movies and books. I love seeing the “underdog” succeed despite seemingly unbeatable odds. Susan Boyle was that underdog. Upon seeing her come out on stage, the audience and even the judges cracked a smile. The value of “not judging a book by its cover” was swept aside, as preconceived ideas flooded the minds of Boyle’s onlookers. When she opened her mouth, Boyle immediately “shut everyone up”. Her critics were promptly silenced and she totally stunned the crowd with a beautiful voice, full of power. It seems she was only aided by her naysayers as she sang, “I dreamed a dreamed” from Les Miserables. Her voice grew as she sensed a change of heart of her audience. Suddenly the audience was rooting “for” her and not “against” her. I think this shows America’s infatuation with the underdog and how quickly perception can change.
Here is the link to her audition: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxPZh4AnWyk
2 responses so far
Susan Boyle’s audition for Britain’s Got Talent was amazing, I remember watching it on YouTube after it was aired on television. I admit, I did not believe she would be good at first either. However, as soon as she did open her mouth, awe struck the room. It shows the impact of music on people’s emotions. Music can impose emotions on a person anywhere from laughter to tears. The potency of music, in this case, was amplified because no one was expecting it. That alone, can compel a great sense of happiness in the listener. I’m happy you shared this, it is a great moment for the show and for music.
What i love about Susan Boyle’s audition is how genuine and how humble she is. I remember the first time I watched her audition, i got the chills. She had nothing to show except a truly exceptional gift–no flashy outfit, no dancing, no gimmicks. I must admit, the first time she walked out on stage, I almost felt bad for her. All that changed as soon as she began to sing. I was so happy to be proven wrong, so I can relate to the happiness you experienced watching the underdog win. I think everyone who watched that video immediately sympathized with her and hoped for her to succeed until the very end.