EPISODE #113

Pop is inseparable from reality TV singing competitions. From Eurovision to American Idol, scores of stars got their start in singing competitions. We’ve long overlooked this influence on pop, but were inspired to look into the phenomenon by the release of Teen Spirit, a pop-musical film about a fictional singing competition .

What is the history of these shows? Who got their big break on one? Is there a singing show musical aesthetic? We hit the books and records to find out, and the answers might surprise. Finally we speak with Elle Fanning, who plays contestant Violet in the film, about what it takes to train to be a singer primed for national fame.

Correction: Though non-European countries do compete in Eurovision, Canada has not competed in the contest. Celine Dion represented Switzerland in her performance of “Ne Partez Pas Moi Celine” in 1988.

RECOMMENDED LISTENING

Mavis Staples – Anytime

Anderson Paak – Ventura

The Beths – Future Me Hates Me

Max, Quinn XCII – Love Me Less

Khalid, John Mayer – Outta My Head

SONGS DISCUSSED

Elle Fanning – Dancing On My Own

Frank Sinatra with The Hoboken Four on the Major Bowes Amateur Hour

Gladys Knight on the Original Amateur Hour

Abba – Waterloo

Celine Dion – Ne Partez Pas Moi Celine

Alanis Morisette on Star Search

Girls Tyme with Beyoncé on Star Search

Kelly Clarkson – A Moment Like This

Whitney Houston – I Have Nothing

Nina Simone – Feeling Good

Janis Joplin – Piece of My Heart

Susan Boyle – I Dreamed A Dream

Elle Fanning – Don’t Kill My Vibe (originally by Sigrid)