When I was in high school, I specifically remember it was shameful to like Britney Spears. We incessantly made fun of a guy friend of mine for owning a copy of Baby One More Time. He bought it “because she’s hot,” he told us, knowing full well that “I like her music” would have been met with absolute befuddlement.
That statement would not have registered, because, frankly, Britney Spears is not a good singer, artist, performer, etc. Whatever you want to call her, she’s not good at it, and she never has been.
So tell me: why the hell we’re all acting like she’s a music legend?
After way too much deliberation and hoopla, Britney Spears was recently announced as the next judge on X-Factor. In this decision, she was compared alongside Madonna and Mariah Carey–both of whom I’m not crazy about, either. But hey, at least they can sing.
Granted, X-Factor? is dumb. But still. In the promos, hearing Britney Spears tell the talent: “You can’t ruin that song sweetie,” is like hearing Sylvester Stallone tell someone their acting is sub-par. In the promo, they never cut to whom Britney is telling this?but unless it’s William Fucking Hung, this woman has no business telling anyone they’re ruining anything.
She’s responsible for this little gem, after all (Note: You may have to get through an ad that includes dancing hamsters, but they’re actually more talented than Britney Spears):
Upon having this discussion with a younger Britney fan who insisted the pop star “changed music, like, forever” I realized that the generation below mine sort of views Britney the same way my generation views Madonna. So at first, I thought maybe I was just getting old. But then I listened to this:
I’m sorry, case closed. This is not singing. It sounds like a robot fucking, at best.
Basically, Britney shot to fame for wearing a schoolgirl outfit and prancing around in a short skirt. And that’s fine, but then why the hell isn’t Sasha Grey on X-Factor?
And it’s not just about Idol. When Britney had her 2012 “Femme Fatale” comeback tour, people went ape shit.
I think a lot of Britney’s staying power has to do with her 2008 meltdown. You know, the one where she shaved her had and started using an umbrella as a sword? Actually, that’s probably the most entertaining thing she’s ever done. But should we be putting her on a pedestal for going fucking bananas? No. She might be a pop culture icon, that’s fine. William Hung is a pop culture icon. But, like William, a music legend she is not.
Just because something is a symbol of our youth doesn’t mean we have to pretend it’s good. People enjoy ‘New Kids on the Block’ ironically, but does anyone claim they’ve changed music? No! They’re terrible, but we love them for that, because they remind us of when we were little and we had shitty taste in music. Britney should be viewed in the same vein, not as an icon and definitely not put in the same category of influence as talented female singers like Mariah Carey, Debbie Harry, Beyonce, Whitney Houston etc. etc. etc.
Some may argue that Britney has still made numerous contributions to music despite her not having the same vocal chops as some of the greats. But come on, people. Is the music industry really any better off because of Toxic?
Something tells me it would’ve been just fine without it.
koe says
But she is. She came up in the industry with other females, and she was the one that managed longevity. She has that same aura as Elvis and Michael Jackson. That doesn’t mean that she is as talented as those people were, but she is as important in Pop culture. And maybe you and your friends didn’t like her growing up, but she would not still be relevant in the music business if no one liked her. I’m sure a lot of people had a lot of sympathy for her after 2008, but that isn’t why her career has had a rennaisance since then.
Britney Spears says
Thank you for taking time out to type your ‘article’ up about how people should perceive me. Let me know if this changes anybody’s mind once you switch off your computer, sell millions of records, nab a Grammy, and smooch Madonna. How I wish in your position-to be able to pounce on those more fortunate from the comfort of my bedroom.
Much Love
XOXO
Jojo says
First of all, Britney has an amazing voice. No, she doesn’t showcase her range in her music, but that’s because she’s known as a performer not a singer. She doesn’t focus on that one area.
So if you’re going to make a statement like at least Mariah and Madonna can sing get your facts straight.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wxrtoEh_Vg
Britney has been setting trends since DAY ONE. No, she shouldn’t be placed in the same category as Mariah or Whitney, but simple because she’s a PERFORMER, not just a singer. She could out dance any of the artists you mentioned any day.
Also, making fun of her for going “crazy” is so immature. Oh wow, she shaved her head. Maybe you should do a little more research and you would realize that the girl was DRUGGED and kept away from her family against her will. Maybe you would realize that because of the way idiots like you talked about her before, was the reason she did suffer and continues to suffer everyday.
But even with that she still holds her head high and continues to inspire people. She is a strong woman for making it through what she did, and still doing what she loves despite people like you.
If you don’t like her music, that’s fine. If you don’t like her voice, cool. But to say she has had no impact on pop music/pop culture is completely ignorant. Then to make fun of her personal ups and downs on top of that makes you look even worse.
We all go through shit, unfortunately, she had to live hers out in front of cameras. Why can’t we just have a little compassion for people who are suffering instead of beating them down even more? YOU are everything that is wrong with the world and bullying since you even admitted it at the beginning of this article.
Next time before judging someone who has more talent in her pinky toe then you do in your whole entire body, you should do some research and grow up a little bit.
Nicpai says
The one who wrote this is pathetic..yeah britney is not as talented as other artist but you cannot do anything about the fact that despite evrything…she is still the worlds most famous superstar…and you should thank her now because of her millions of people are reading your article right now because there is the Name BRITNEY SPEARS on it.
Chris says
Um, your dates are off by a year. epic fail.
Eddie Vedder says
I think you have a point about her vocal talent but I saw this article about Britney on Spin Magazine not really about Spears but Modern Electronic Music and they talk about her contribution and impact, her music was experimenting with Alternative sounds back in 2003 y she use it Dubstep in 2007 when this sound wasnt take the modern estructure now this sounds is in everywhere is like the “rock and roll” of our times, Another thing she is currently discovering and supporting excelent new producers, after they work with Britney, everybody in the music industry request them to work.
Ok but if this dont say nothing to you, Britney Spears sold more than 100 millions albums WW, she have the same number 1 albums than Mariah Carey & Janet Jackson, Britney singles tops the charts in 3 different decades, Like songwriter she have Hits and write song to another popular artists like Selena Gomez and mega asian star Boa.
Talk about her impact in Pop Culture and Modern Society is nonsenses because everybody knows IS HUGE.
And more importantly she have bad times, she made mistakes and the world was/still cruel with her but this sweet and always humble girl, was strong enough to beat al this troubles at this point she is going to become a little inspiration to us. Honestly
Anyway I love this page, Good Luck in Everything boys
sammy says
sasha grey? really? youre gonna compare a sexy school girl outfit to a woman who does porn?
NO.
just NO.
britney spears can dance and sing, yes she isn’t the adele of our generation (voice and body-wise) but she can sing. that’s how she got her recording contract in the first place.
madonna, btw, doesn’t have a wide vocal range either?
she is NOT known for her voice either.
why are you so pressed?
Brian says
Ummm.. when did we start pretending that Britney DOES suck??? Or even start thinking that in general?!?!
It’s funny how you mention it was shameful to like Britney in High school and that you happily made fun of some boy for owning her album. Well i’ll admit yes, it was shameful to like her when I was in High School, but that didn’t stop me from flaunting it! I was that boy that got picked on for liking her and owning her album, and it’s shameful in itself that you enjoy ridiculing someone for that. PATHETIC!
This was a sad, miserable excuse for an article, simply based off of someones opinion. Britney has done more for the entertainment/music industry than any other female artist in the past decade and regardless of what happens to her and what downfalls try to get in her way, she overcomes all obstacles and always with a smile on her face and a willingness to pursue.
Since her first single to present day, she has had numerous chart-topping hits, all of her albums since baby one more time have debuted at number 1 or 2 and almost anybody and everybody can agree that she is a world-wide phenomenally iconic human being and artist. True, it may come across that she doesn’t have the vocal prowess or chops as some other female artists, but that’s only because she sings differently in her music than she naturally would. She’s won contests and been showcased on many vocal-talent shows when she was younger and damn yes she can sing!
Britney deserves everything that she has and it’s all been accomplished because she has the will and drive to succeed! Britney IS an icon and she will continue to hold longevity in her career.
BRITNEY Fan says
Can I just point out that even Rolling Stones recently entered Blackout into their Hall Of Fame because of its impact on music. I think music experts at Rolling Stones would be quite clued in on what great music is. I totally respect your right to an opinion but its harsh to pick on someone that clearly has mental problems…
MT says
Different strokes for different folks. Some of us aren’t pretending and have always loved, respected & enjoyed Ms Spears efforts.
Whilst a quote by Shania Twain, relevant to any performer I should think….
I find that the very things that I get criticized for, which is usually being different and just doing my own thing and just being original, is the very thing that’s making me successful. – Shania Twain.
I’m deeply saddened by your article, as I’m not a writer, again, I’ll use others to best explain….
MT says
In my experience, great writers write.
Failing and desperate writers provoke.
Let me hazard a guess
Lisa says
You are quite possibly the biggest idiot i have ever heard in my life. Just because you’ll never be as talented, famous, rich, influentially, iconic, or legendary as Britney, doesn’t mean you can go around bashing her for no reason.
From 1999-2004 she was the most talented performer of our time, and nowadays (after a huge mental breakdown) she is still better than most female performers out there.
Mariah, Beyonce, and Madonna could NEVER do what Britney did at the 2000 and 2001 VMAS, and today’s female stars CERTAINLY couldn’t.
When you’ve sold 200 million records and are the biggest selling female artist of the decade, then you can bash Britney. For now, sit your ass down.
Ber says
Bitch stfu u know u are a fan too
Annoyed says
Britney Spears really can sing better than Madonna and Beyonce. Listen to this! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ-aT4OdNmg&feature=related She has the most soft and beautiful voice in Hollywood. People buy her CD’s because they love her voice and music. You can’t sell over 100 million albums because you look “sexy” there are so many sexy flop singers in the industry. Madonna herself adores Britney and even said she is the most underrated artist and even predicted she is the underdog and she was not wrong about it afterall.
And by the way, why everyone attacking Britney judging singers, where were you all when Ellen was judging AI??? Or J.LO?? You think they are great singers?? Sit back you old fck!
Lmao says
I completely agree with everything you said. Britney Spears fans are desilusional. They honestly believe she’s changed the music industry forever and contributed to music. Give me a break, guys. Britney is another manufactured talentless singer, she’s not adding anything to this world. You guys are pathetic. Her performances are terrible and her new music is generic bullshit.
Britney Spears is not legendery. She’s not the queen or princess of anything. Give up.
kesha_precious says
you silled a lot of true tea
i mean she cant even sing her own song live
all she does is sit on props and expect to sell records
disrespectful
Joe says
Wow whoever wrote this is dumb.
She is the best selling female artist of the ’00s…girl is doing something right!
Britney has stability…even better she is constantly relevant.
She has had better single sales post her meltdown than before.
She is iconic.
Emmanuel says
You really hit the jack pot describing Britney’s career. She didn’t do neither something interesting nor original with her career, as you say she can’t sing at all and now she can’t even move, her plastic songs were catchy I ain’t gon deny it but that’s all Britney didn’t produce, wrote, compose any song she was just a product, she’s not a Star nor a true artist besides it’s really annoying that Simon Cowell wants us to think of her as a big star but the truth is that she doesn’t and will never have talent
Cookie Monster says
Oh, there be a storm a comin. Ayuh, a biggun. When the MJ stupids collide with the BritBrit stupids, the suck has the barometer droppin summin fearce. Ya’ll best be looking for cover.
Kon says
I applaud the author for stepping up and saying something that has never been popular – the truth. Let the mob rage. If all people were reasonable, rational and equally smart, then concepts like “reality TV”, horoscopes, psychics, bringing democracy to Middle East and even Santa Clause would struggle to manifest in our world. The very existence of those is the testament that the majority are extremely limited, too weak-willed to think independently. They seek comfort in social conformity. Britney’s popularity is a prime example of pop star engineering. People don’t understand that what they see is the work of a multitude of sound engineers, producers, managers, coaches, trainers, composers, marketers, etc.
Britney’s popularity can be compared to that of the Kardashians, Paris Hilton and etc. Are those people very talented? We’ve got thousands of extremely skilled actors performing in theatres around the globe, yet they’ll never become Hollywood superstars, yet Sylvester Stallone has. Food for thought.
Nice parallel to Sasha Grey, by the way. Both celebrities shot to fame by portraying school girls?
But some here are missing the point of this article. It’s fine that Britney is popular (for the same reason as a high-school cheerleader is). It’s just that she has no business judging other people’s singing skills.
ScottieM says
Britney Spears is a manufactured pop icon. Just like Donnie Osmond. Just like David Cassidy. The only difference is now record companies have something called Auto-tune. They of course have used it on every Britney song. Its ruined the music industry. It should be banned.
Frances says
I think your point about her 2008 meltdown is interesting. She is currently ranked as the 7th most popular singer of all time on a chart of social media popularity, not celebrity, singer. 8th most popular musician. Perhaps examples like Britney just highlight the power and significance of celebrity and social media, perhaps given the instant nature of social media even more so than ever before?
Texas12 says
She can not sing and does the same dances. She is like 30 or something and is still trying to sound like a little kid on the x-factor. She is annoying to say the least. She started sleeping with her back up dancer when she knew he was living with his girlfriend and his two children. It doesn’t matter if he flirted with her or not, but this goes to show you that she has no integrity and is a tramp.
She can not sing or judge. The X-factor is crap and she doesn’t make it any better. The show is borderline Jerry Springer and has the right judge on there with this caliber person (Ms. Spears). I’m so glad Justin Timberlake dumped her for cheating on him – good for him.
ThatRationalThinker says
You know what would’ve made this article better?
If you actually gave well thought out points and views as to why you thought Britney Spears was bad.
You know what’d improve this and make you a better writer?
If you didn’t come across as a bitter, immature holier-than-thou individual who would fit in perfectly with 14 year old youtubers who claim to “listen to real music” and that they were “born in the wrong generation.”
Sally says
I cringe when I hear Brittany advising and commenting on these young kids – a role model, she is not. With a family still fighting for money she has made, and charges for not being a good parent and taking care of her kids – I cannot believe that simon cowell would even consider that she could, in any way shape or form, be a mentor. That is a very scary oxymoron.
I watched the show the first season – despite the judges silliness – I enjoyed the contenstants, and was pulling for them. This year, the whole farce is apalling. Thank god I’m in Canada and can’t vote, because I would be voting judges off – not contestants… what a farce.
Sally says
good grief – look where she lives – compared to most of us. why must we feel sorry for her. Feel sorry for the homeless, cancer patients etc….. grow up and get real.
Sally says
Wonderful quotes – but not quite relevant. These quotes relate to great people = not rock stars who make it due to a miniscule bit of fate and a great deal of luck. Not because they are creating “works” or “distinguishing themselves” other than being lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time and offering what a demographic audience wants. Hey I’m Canadian and Justin Beiber is the same – in the right place, at the right time – he hasnt exactly paid his dues yet either. My big problem is a tv show that promotes ms. spears as a “mentor”. God help the kids she mentors – because how will they ever learn the true values in llife. Thank god most of them are smarter than she herself is.
Ale says
I think this “blog” or whatever this is, is completely bullcrap. Just because you assume everybody thinks Britney Spears is a “bad singer” and doesn’t know how to preform is a immature and close minded opinion. It’s obvious she’s a great performer, not perfect, but she’s still pretty good. She’s not considered the upcoming queen of pop for nothing. She has millions of fans plus she’s a pop ICON plus E! once said she TURNED THE POP WORLD UPSIDE DOWN,there is no other artist ,besides Madonna, that could be compared all that she has done, she created a whole generation. So,just because you choose to not like her and think she’s a crappy artist, wich she is NOT, doesn’t mean everyone thinks the same, sorry for breaking it up to you. ;)
Lex says
And as a side note…in response for the “britney can out dance any of the performers mentioned any day.” Have you seen her perform since 2007. She doesn’t dance, she walks around on stage and moved her arms. You should make sure to do YOUR research before telling someone else to learn the facts.
I agree with you about hateful speech towards entertainers, there is no reason to be cruel and hateful. I find those people to be pathetic and arrogant.
But I don’t agree that she is qualified to judge other singers. She may be a “performer” but it’s a SINGING competition. She would be better off on America’s Got Talent.
G.A. says
Britney took the world by storm with blockbuster albums, legendary performances and mindblowing worldwide popularity.. When she released Baby and Oops it was like crazy, everyone was talkin about her globally, in the school,street everywhere.. Tons of girls came out to imitate her, she started a new era.. She was already the biggest star on earth in 2002 just after 3 years she came out.. She is the biggest selling and the most popular artist of the decade.. Her VMA performances, tours, press and internet popularity are all legendary.. She is still going strong.. Millions of people love her, she has a powerful fanbase. She is the queen of pop and it’s funny if there are people who think supporting Britney is shame.. Shame on them, they should look at the mirror. Britney rocks.. End of story
Mason says
Dude love you !!! you don’t know shit britney spears is unbelievably talented and underrated…. WHen ever a britney spears song is played everyone instantly knows who it is whether they heard the song or not ! She has a incredibly gifted recognizable voice…. And i honestly think britney spears bring more to the table with her voice then any of artist I have seen… Britney spears is not about how far in length of notes she can hold… or how long of a vocal range she has britney spears is an amazing instrument of the voice that only she posses !!! Her vocals instantly set the setting of the song and the emotion of how the song is suppose to be…. ANd she is a character that can not be replaced !!! Britney spears has sold millions of records because of how talented she is …. and frankly the high light of your carrier is writing about her carrier !!! now that’s pathetic !!!
jsdhkvnlav says
People like her cos she’s britney fucking spears. Not cos she’s actually good. Back in the day she was a pretty good dancer.. never a great singer. she’s hot and blonde and makes catchy stupid songs.. and prances around in skimpy lingerie. that’s why people like her.
ICYNDICEY says
I think Vegas is the perfect venue for her considering she’s highest paid hooker in America.
LaurenR says
Wow, now I can’t stand the girl. She cannot sing, she dances, just like strippers dance! What really gets me is whoever wrote a response to this article.
Britney introducing dub step?? Whhhhat???… What planet are you from sir? Rock and roll of our times?? What the hell am I reading?
The fact that we are still talking about her means we need to hit the reset button on America. She made a choice from a young age to go out and try show business. Anyone jumping into show business should understand what that means…. If you want to be a star you have to see your self, especially if you want to be on all the covers. The moment she had her break down was the moment she showed everyone that she really isn’t anything special. But yet here she keeps trying… My question is how and why did milley and Katyy perry become so popular and well liked? Three examples of girls who walk around with attitudes and holier than tho mindsets. I don’t want those people in this universe!
But dub step??? Come on….
aaron says
Britney’s 2007 album “Blackout” was influential enough to be put in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame…it isn’t even a rock record. Whether you enjoy Britney’s singing voice is entirely up to you but, she is in fact a talented performer and dancer. The days when i loved pop music seem to be far behind me but i will say that many of the pop songs that have stuck with me are Britney Spears ones.