The Bullying of Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift was bullied in middle school. That much, we knew. So she wrote a bunch of songs, moved to Nashville and starting selling records by the millions. But why hasn't the bullying stopped?
A comment on one of my blogs recently kind of enlightened me by pointing out that the negative remarks readers sometimes make about Swift's success now isn't really any different than the mean-girl stuff she went through in school.
The commenter, a 40-something woman, had a lot to say in Swift's defense. And I have to agree with most of it, like, "The comments of she can't sing, she can't play a guitar, the way she flips her hair. This is high school stuff. She was bullied in school, and now she's getting bullied again. She is one of the most humble person, appreciative, classy and very talented young girl."
She also said, "If she isn't country, then half the country singers aren't either. The old country is out. Just like the world, it evolves and changes."
And then she posed the question, "How many entertainers of the year bring their band up and thank them for their work?" In a world of narcissistic lead singers, not many, that's for sure.
She ends her post by adding, "All I have to say is to the bullies, when you can sell out Madison Square Garden in one minute, sell millions and millions of albums, and sell out any concert, then you can b*tch."
So to this 40-something woman, Lisa, I have to say thank you. Thank you for pointing out the parallels between so-called adult readers and bitchy junior high girls who left the lunch table when Swift sat down. I think the only real difference between the two is that these new bullies have anonymity on their side. And maybe someday, Swift will write a song about them, too.
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D Trotter says:
Alison, thank you so much, not only for recognizing the validity of Lisa’s comment but for writing such a powerful blog about it.
Taylor’s ever-growing popularity is such that new fans of Ms Swift are coming to CMT for the first time, perhaps drawn by an internet google about Taylor, and they are dumbfounded by the meanness of many of the comments. Sometimes when they praise Taylor, they themselves are then ridiculed. That’s happening right now on one of your other blogs about Taylor’s recent concerts in England, where several people who actually SAW the the shows and raved about them are now being insulted for liking them
Kanje may have earned the “boo” in boorish, but at least he stood up in front of the world and said what he believed. In my book, hiding behind the cloak of anonymity of internet blogs and talking trash about someone like Taylor makes Kanje look like Sir GaLAHAD.
Alison W says:
So no one’s allowed to even dislike Taylor now? Every musician/famous person has people who dislike them. Millions of people are obsessed with Taylor, I think she’s a big enough girl to understand that along with that comes the critique as well.
And I don’t think commenting that a singer can’t sing is “highschool stuff.” A singer being able to sing is a little more important than the way they flip their hair. Or at least, should be.
merlefan49 says:
The old country is out?? You could have fooled me. It is still around in fact it is better than ever.
Illinoiscountrygirl says:
Alison, you should also blog about how TS fans bully other artists, some of them are extremely mean! You act like TS is the only one getting picked on, so be fair about it and report on the others too!
Lindsey says:
everyone is allowed to have an opinion… but when it is taken to the point of hurting others than is that really an opinion or just words of hate or envy?? i believe that people such as alison w, like commenting on articles about taylor swift because she can’t get enough of her… there are plenty of musician that i am not a fan of however i am not going around bashing them or spending my time writing the bad things about them… i would rather spend my time writing good things about people who make life enjoyable… and by saying enjoyable someone has to agree with me or people like taylor wouldn’t say millions of records…
Linda says:
This sick obsession with Taylor Swift has to stop. Practically every item on this whole site is about her. Maybe her detractors aren’t “mean” - just fed up with having her pushed in our faces 24/7.
kayko says:
On the front page of CMT.com I see articles and blogs written about Carrie Underwood, Jason Aldean, Tim McgGraw, Sugarland, Jory and Rory, Luke Bryon, Kellie Pickler, Miranda Lambert, Steel Magnolia, Brad Pasley,with Carrie Underwood and Sugarland mention’s again. How does that equate to having Taylor Swift shoved in your face 24/7? As far as Taylor’s fans bulling , I see much less of it than I do fan’s of other artists bulling on Taylor fan’s, if it happens then they should be reported, plain and simple.
Every blog or article that is written about Taylor the same people have to jump in there and give their “opinion” on Taylor, and it is starting to sound like a broken record. How many times does one person have to say the same thing over, and over, and over again? Most of the time when I see certain names I don’t even read them anymore because I already know what they are going to say, so what’s the point in reading them? So at that point an opinion turns into bashing, it doesn’t take that many times to say the same thing.
flower says:
i agree 100% with kayko!!!!!
trink says:
Thanks Alison glad someone can see childish crap Taylor and her fans have to put up with.
MR TINY says:
I JUST THINK ALL HER SONGS ARE THE SAME, AND AS FAR AS OLD COUNTRY BEING DEAD, CMT MADE SURE THAT HAPPEND HAY CMT WHY DON’T YOU TRY PLAYING SOME MUSIC VIDEOS ONCE IN A WHILE ON TV, EVERYTIME I TURN IT ON ITS WIFE SWAP, ANYWAY ITS NOT JUST TS ITS ALL OF THE ARTIST. SHAME ON THE NEW ARTIST FOR TRASHING COUNTRY MUSIC UP, AND SHAME ON THE OLD ONES FOR LETTING IT HAPPEN,THE ONLY PEOPLE THAT ARE REAL IN NASHVILLE ANYMORE IS HANK WILLIAMS III JOHN ANDERSON JAMEY JOHNSON ALAN JACKSON TRAVIS TRITT CLINT BLACK LEANN WOLMACK MARK CHESNUTT DOLLY PARTON TOBY KIETH IF YOU KNOW ANYMORE ADD TO THE LIST!!!!!!!
hotelmotel says:
Yes, much of the anti-Taylor stuff is utter nonsense.
But to say she can’t sing or she can’t play guitar isn’t exactly bullying. In some sense, there is a good bit of truth to those remarks. Swift isn’t known for her excellent vocals or guitar playing.
I do think comments that pick on her for the way she flips her hair or that single her out for criticism based on a trait that would be overlooked on most other singers is disreputable though.
Some of it is also about how you conduct yourself. For example, Kanye West made his anti-Taylor point in an incredibly obnoxious way. But I think his fundamental point was sound. Its not just what you say, its how you say it.
solongsowrong says:
While certainly not a fan of the music of Taylor Swift, I still find it quite amusing all those who complain about her being what all the blogs are about on this sight, and how she is shoved down throats and pushed into faces.
Really?
Just this past month alone, there have been blogs about artists like Corb Lund, Loretta Lynn, Glen Campbell, John Fogerty, Reckless Kelly, Charlie Daniels, Chip Taylor, Guy Clark, Kris Kristofferson, Rosanne Cash, Shawn Colvin, Patty Loveless, Waylon Jennings, Rodney Crowell, Vince Gill, Gene Watson, Rhonda Vincent, and The Steel Canyon Rangers. How many of the complainers have bothered to read or find anything out about them? You might actually find some Country music you’d enjoy.
Nobody is forcing you to read Swift articles, listen to her music, or even watch her on the different shows she is on. You have the power to remove her from your viewing or hearing. If you don’t like the direction Mainstream Pop Country is heading, there are too many other Country choices and genres available, to waste your time complaining about something only you have the power to prevent. Let her fans have their moment, and use your energies to find something you actually might find more enjoyable.
And Alison…. guess what? You’re just as much the problem yourself, by pushing the envelpoe with blogs such as this. You do seem to relish in the discussions it creates. Too bad they always end up with the same people saying the same things, over and over.
Andy says:
I personally am a fan of all country music especially Taylor Swift. I don’t think the newer artists are trashing country music, they are making it better, in my opinion. Jamey Johnson even said he doesn’t believe that country music needs saving, he just believes that everyone plays their own version of it. It used to be that most country artists came from the southern states, and were probably brought up on traditional country music. However, people like Shania and Garth came along, they made outsiders like country, too. No two singers will have the exact same influences. People bitch about Taylor Swift always being in the news, well that’s because she’s always doing stuff! She is a country artist, so everything she does will make headlines on country music websites. You can argue all you want about how she’s now country, but she’s still gonna be sellin out tours, selling records, and doing anything else she wants. Country music should be thanking her for introducing all of her fans who listen to pop to country music. Because of her tour, Kellie Pickler has gained more fans, Gloriana got AMA, and even Brad Paisley says that he KNOWS he has more fans thanks to Taylor Swift.
CountryFan says:
Thank you Alison for pointing out what is really happening here on CMT. I know Chet has also but the bullying needs to stop.
All this hate is only going to age you guys and Taylor isn’t going anywhere. Taylor will be around for many years to come. Taylor is a remarkably talented young lady. Long live the Queen of Country.
Ray says:
I personally think that Taylor Swift is around a little to much and that her publicist can tone things down a bit.Why does she always talk about things in highschool like fifteen if she was bullied in junior high.Her family is very wealthy and she has had a very easy life to were some things that she says don’t go together.This is just my opinion so I welcome others opinions and I won’t wine if someone says something that I don’t like.
Amber says:
Taylor isn’t going anywhere?? I wouldn’t bet on it!
Ran says:
A few weeks ago I sent my brother a link to a CMT blog about Taylor because I thought it was funny how nasty some country music fans can be. I think there are some people out there that think there life’s mission is to blast Taylor. How many times do we need to hear she can’t sing? Yes she can sing, you might not like the way she sings and that is ok, dont listen to her, but there are millions of people that love the way she sings. I know before this week is over the Taylor haters will be here like flies on …. !
hotelmotel says:
Solongsowrong makes a really good point : “And Alison…. guess what? You’re just as much the problem yourself, by pushing the envelpoe with blogs such as this. You do seem to relish in the discussions it creates. ”
Alison does tend to write blogs that are designed to generate controversy, and possibly even get people angry. Some of the blogs probably start controversy when none really existed (The Mark Chesnutt said something vaguely unflattering about Taylor Swift one, for instance). In a sense Alison does seem to encourage the so called internet bullies and thus its a bit unfair of her to complain about their conduct.
Anyway, nobody forces Swift in my throat. I listen to pop country for about 25 minutes a day (when driving my car) and that’s it. If a song i dislike comes on I switch the station. I probably hear Swift singing a few times a week at most. I don’t care for her music all that much, and thankfully, its usually pretty easy to avoid her music when I want to.
Tom says:
The endless fawning of certain artists creates the backlash and alleged bullying–the same way with athletes, politicians, actors–there should be room for everyone and everyone should be allowed to choose who they do and do not like without being told their “hate” is wrong. This is supposed to be a democracy, after all.
kayko says:
How does one encourage the “internet bullies”? How about just the article’s about Taylor winning awards, why yes how controversial is that? Or how about writing about the television show’s that she will be appearing on that’s a good way to stir up those pesky “internet bullies’ huh? I mean we all now that just the mention of taylor’s name is more than they can stand. Going back to the award’s that Taylor has won, if their favorite artist’s won those they would be thrilled, but if taylor wins it’s somehow turned into something ominous. Of couse we also realize that they just can’t help themselves, they just can’t focus on anything else but their dislike for Taylor.
Nashviller says:
Funny how most of the comments here are “bullying” Alison for her obsession with the kid. The fact remains, she is a sold out wanna be with no talent. That’s not bullying, nor is it bashing. It’s just fact Alsion.
You should take a look at what Taylor fans say to those who just simply don’t care for her. They are of course children, and act like it. If you don’t bow down and worship the kid, you are blasted, and accused of being a fan of XXXX who is just “jealous”…which is hilarious. There are soooooo many other artists in Nashville with tons more talent than the kid.
Debra says:
Over exposure will be her own demise!!
Katie says:
I really appreciate you writing this. I distinctly remember reading the comment you mentioned and agreeing with it.
I’ve been a fan of Taylor since the first time heard “Tim McGraw,” before her 1st album came out. Part of what I was attracted to was that she wasn’t the best singer and didn’t sing traditional songs, but she was my age, she wrote songs I could relate to, and she was honest. And I think that is what has propelled her, because she hasn’t changed herself and she has always thanked the people who truly help her (like her parents, fans, band and label).
I’m not some over the top nut when I like people, but I also don’t bash the people I dislike. If I don’t want to hear someone, I don’t buy their albums or watch them on TV or listen to them on the radio, but I also don’t go on angry and mean-spirited tirades when they experience succes.
Opinions are fine and I don’t expect everyone to agree (God knows the reason I started listening to country was because no one else in my middle school liked it and because it seemed like a family where people were allowed to be different), but saying hateful things do nothing but hurt others.
Total Country says:
Another blog to bring all the bashers, have nothing to say about any artist. They all do the best they can, and a lot better than I ever could. So like someone else said, if I don’t like a song, or artist, people turn it off, that is what I do. So easy, my house the flipper is always going. My radio I stop listening because of so many ads, and no music, now country tv is the same way. So I buy cds and play who I like. Problem solved.
Ygrove says:
Alot of People on here are too mature for the songs Taylor sings,and when you get a vocalist award,you should be able to sing well.This site is not the only place that people are starting to speak out about this, and it’s not just a few bullies,just check the net.The Disney world is real to all the little kids,but those parents are starting to open their eyes,and see that the money they spend should get a little quality too.I’m not against Taylor but I am against those that sell a bill of goods that don’t exist.She’s not the best in Country and not the best in POP and the only people that don’t know this is being taken advantage of by the people that are making the money.I feel sorry for Taylor,she really can’t sing,but she is sweet.When her star fades Country nor POP won’t care and all the tweens that make her shine now,will have moved on.
Kenny Fan says:
As much as the blogs about seem to annoy me, I will say that people need to respect taylor as a person, an artist, and a songwriter. She has pulled off an amazing feat, capturing so many young (and old) ladies hearts. As a guy I am not a huge fan, but I respect her, even if she did take away kenny chesney’s entertainer of the year… that’s another topic… But people critize ethier cause of fear, hurt, or ignorance, and even dislike. So lets argee that God is great, Taylor is good, and people are crazy.
Filipino Kid says:
people says she can’t play the guitar. she might not be Brad Paisley but her guitar skills is enough to write ca somple song about simple life.
And her songs aren’t exactly the same. To say that means to also acknowledge the fact that most Hank Williams or Ernest Tubb songs sounds the same.
And to those people who says she can’t sing, they better check out Conor Oberst live especially his Bright Eyes stuff…
And thank God i live in a country where you can be both a fan of Taylor Swift and Joey Allcorn at the same time.
But the way to those who think old style country is dead, maybe dead in the mainstream but certainly not in the overall country music.
Joey Allcorn is an example that old-timey country music is still alive and well.
Plus artists like Alan Jackson, George Strait, and Old Crow Medicine Show are still raving up the mainstream country radio…
And speaking of Taylor can’t play the guitar, what abut that guitar on George Strait’s hand? :-)
amy says:
So when shes getting put down she gets a blog written about her. When rascal flatts get put down for not being country, being a boy band, all there songs sounding the same, the lead singers voice sounding nasal, or how there all chubby, nothing is said about that?? or how about when people put down carrie underwood for not being a real artist cause she won american idol?
This is such a double standard, taylor swift is not getting bullied! fans will like her fans wont, thats common with a music career..get over it!
Why dont you stop showing favoritism and write a blog about all the other country stars getting slammed and insulted! Maybe if you cared about other performers like you cared about swift so many fans wouldnt be ticked off.
OldGoat34 says:
I haqve a new tactic ignore TS. why talk about her.
Country_is_my_music says:
Ok…. I think Taylor is a nice person, however her singing is not comparable to other artists in this genre. She is never on tune - sometimes her screaming fans (which I admit she has lots of) are more in tune than her (look at her cma performance). She can sell out - however I do predict once her teen years are over and she becomes an adult her fan base will dwindle because the majority of her fans are young girls. As taylor matures into adulthood, her songs should change from all the “childish singing about boys” and people will realize she cannot sing live. I am sorry, but I think artists need to perform and entertain, but they also need to have the ability to stay in tune and in key. When that happens I will begin to believe she deserves all she has gotten. I am not trying to “bash” but just state what I feel; again I believe she is a very nice person and entertainer; but not a good enough vocalist.
Alice says:
I don’t get why there’s so much hate in this world. Specially in this country. Stop hating on Taylor. Really, because youre gonna get hated on. Yes, her fans are obsessive (I include myself, proudly) but so what? That’s good. She is kind of on top of the world. Thats also good. If you dont like her, then dont read articles about her and comment how youre so sick of the attention given to her, because by doing so, youre giving her more attention. She has talent, but not all can see that. I fell sorry if youre one of those. I do agree she has…um..not so good live performances SOME TIMES, but she still has a great voice. F*CK HATERS. GO TAYLOR! <3
Toph says:
Great blog, there is no reason to be hating on Taylor. If you don’t like her, fair enough but keep it to yourself. The things people say can really hurt a person.
mae right says:
Ts needs to grown up She cant’ sing , she has no tune and if it wasn’t for the musice background and people maganize, cmt and gactv promoting her she would not be any where today. she sucks so why not print the truth
Kim says:
I’m sure Taylor is “hurting” all the way to the bank. Why would she care what people on this blog are saying about her? It’s a free country, people can say what they want. She’s got power, I will give her that. The fact that she has CMT telling people not to pick on her. Other artists such as Kenny Chesney have been having hurtful rumors going on about them for years and I don’t see CMT defending them.
Camila says:
My toughts are the same, I think she’s a great girl, and she will never hurt anyone. You don’t have to be bullied for anything, this make a psychological problem, really a lot of kids or teenagers, kill them selves, because these type of people influence in their lifes. The person who does it, it’s not a person, it’s an animal. There’s no reason to hate Taylor Swift, really she’s a great role model, she doesn’t hurts anyone, and it’s a healthy person. Great Blog.
Robin says:
Many people commenting on this blog aren’t trying to be annoymous either. This is the only way they can comment about either annoying blogs or one’s they agree with. Many many many of these posters would be glad to post their real name (many do) and their picture.
The only thing making them annoymous is the method by which they have to respond. You write a blog and ask for comments and because you don’t like the comments, you’re going to complain about them being able to bully annomously?
Taylor can’t sing nor is she a star guitar player. And, she writes juvenile songs. I have no problem with her EOY award although I’d have preferred Brad win, but think she had a legitimate claim to it (Kenny can’t sing either and he’s won 4 times). She is a nice girl. I like her on a personal level. I think she’s a great influence on kids. I defend her when people attack her on a personal level. I don’t care if she has a billion teenage fans (or whatever age). I don’t think she can legitimately take (nor should have been nominated for) FVOY award.
People don’t complain because “they don’t like her voice”, they complain because she sings off key in most every song. She sang off key in both performances at the CMA Award show that she just won FVOY on. So, people voice their complaints. You have this blog to voice your point of view and people comment to voice theirs. You can’t then complain that by them using their voice they are bullying anomyously.
You want my phone number Allison, just ask.
suckithaters says:
When Reba, Dolly, Keith, Kenny, and Barbara Mandrell have nothing but good things to say about you, and George Strait makes it a point to attend your concert as well as Ronnie Dunn, Faith Hill, and Tim Mcgraw…you have talent others only dream off. She is a megastar, and when you have those heavyweights having your back, i would be willing to bet anyone, anytime, she’s not going anywhere!By the way, tell me anyone else who writes every song on their record at her age, thats right, there aren’t any, enough said.
hotelmotel says:
I think Robin’s points at 11:17 a.m. are really thoughtful and good.
bkb says:
if swift was bullied in school and now in country music as one stated, maybe there is a behavior pattern going on with swift that people don’t like and there is something to this like maybe she can’t sing and some don’t want to admit it..
TY says:
I don’t see Alison coming out to defend Rascal Flatts or Carrie Underwood when they are bashed-bullied. It is mostly the TAYLOR fans that bash Carrie—-What about that Alison. It seems you are biased and obsessed with Swift. I for one have completely turned her off—can’t stand her terrible singing or flipping her hair. She is so overrated. Swift fans can dish the bashing out–but they can’t stand the Swift bashing. Get real! You can bet that it is mostly other artist’s fans that bash and NOT Carrie fans. It is all over the net that Swift can not sing at all and that her voice is studio enhanced to sell records.—and I agree!!
timcun says:
I agree with 99% of Robin’s message from 11:17 am. The only thing I disagree with is that I love Kenny’s voice and think that he can sing just fine.
Taylor seems like a very sweet girl with a bubbly personality and I think a lot of people, including artists are drawn to her for that reason. But, her singing is terrible. Every live performance is flat and off-key. And for her to win FVOTY over Martina, Miranda, Reba, and Carrie is a slap in the face to real talent…
DustinG says:
Amen to Robin who posted this morning!!!!! I COMPLETELY AGREE WITH YOU!!!!! TY your are also speaking some truth! It is only a matter of time country music wakes up and sees what the majority of people see!!!!!!!!!!
kayko says:
I have asked several times in several blogs for someone to point me in the direction of Taylor’s fan’s bashing other artist’s. I have yet to get a response. If you’re going to make an accusation please back it up with proof.
KLH says:
Alison will keep writing blogs about Taylor, as long as there is haters out there to give her the hits on the site. Alison blogs get the most hit. And it’s thanks to Taylor.
huh? says:
Isn’t there a difference between real bullying which happens TO a person’s face by other real people and the nastygrams posted on this site??? I just don’t think they are the same thing. It’s all just another CMT blogger stirring the pot.
K says:
While I think Taylor seems like a sweet girl with a humble and bubbly personality, she should not, and never will be, exempt from criticism. Every person in the public eye is bashed and scrutinized endlessly just as Taylor is.
People who choose a career with an exteremly public persona have to learn to deal with criticism, regardless of how hurtful, unjust, or inappropriate it may be. Anybody can say anything they chose in any form that they chose on the internet. That in turn creates a groups of people with all different opinions, and the fans and haters often stick together to make it seem as if this person has tons of fans or tons of spiteful haters in the corner.
Taylor seems mature enough to understand what she has gotten herself into, which seems rare in this “I’m famous but you invaded my privacy” age that we live in. That being said though, I don’t think Taylor should be exempt from anything because of her age; if anything, hopefully crtitcal remarks will drive her to improve.
Although I don’t think there should be any reason to attack Taylor, or any artist, personally, it is still going to continue regardless of who speaks up against it. Artists are always going to have individuals who don’t like them and do everything they can to tear that person down and make their fans angry.
The only thing fans can really do is enjoy their favorite artist and try to ignore the critics.
I think the saying “you know you’ve made it when you have haters” pretty much sums up the career of Taylor Swift and the people who discuss her. People on this blog are constantly taking time out of their days to read and bash someone they supposdly “don’t like” or think is “so untalented,” yet they continue to do so on a continious bases? I guess people really are more complicated than they seem.
I do think Taylor is overexposed, yes, but it’s difficult for anyone to say they can’t ignore her at all. You don’t have to listen to her albums or interviews, buy tickets to see her in concert, or support or comment on anything she does. You do, however, have to see her face everywhere when your favorites are not in the limelight at that time. Tough as it may be for some, that’s the realilty of the bussiness.
Kirsten says:
Thank you for writing this, Alison! I’ve been a fan of Taylor since summer 2006, and I will always be a fan and have her back, and she has plenty of fans that feel the same way. The people that comment on here and bash her, they are like ants compared to how many fans she has all over the world. Honestly.
I agree. The bullying needs to stop. It’s just a bunch of middle aged people with nothing better to do with their time than pick on a 19 year old girl who is obviously doing something right in this world (hence the millions of fans she has all over the world and all the awards she has earned). Yeah, some people are probably younger college students, like myself, that are bashing her, but I mostly see the bashing coming from people that should really know how to act their own age. You don’t have to like her voice, but a lot of comments about her on here are just downright cruel and uncalled for. A lot of the posters are THE SAME people that say the same thing over and over. “She can’t sing, she can’t play guitar, she writes about high school, blah blah…”. Get over yourself. How many times do you have to say the same thing? Are you THAT unoriginal that you have to keep saying the same thing over and over? Find something different and legit, or just get off the computer and go find something productive to do with your life. It’s not like Taylor is a mean person. I think people that are mean DO deserve a little Karma. I’ve met her several times and have watched her grow as an artist and she is still the sweetest, most down to earth person she was when she first came into the industry. She’s just herself. And nothing more. She is genuine and stays true to herself. That, my friends, is hard to come by now a days it seems like. The way Taylor interacts and connects with her fans is unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. She is humble and very nice. So why all the hate on the girl? She doesn’t deserve it.
But ya know, when you haters are just coming on every blog/news story about Taylor on here and finding every way to cut her down, because it bothers you THAT much that she wins awards and is in the spotlight, well, go on and continue to hate. She is the one laughing it up all the way to the bank along with her millions of fans who are overjoyed with the awards she has won and all the success in her career. Nobody is FORCING you to listen to her or read posts about her. If you hate her that much, why do you even read the articles written about her? You don’t want to read something about Taylor? Well, it’s simple. Don’t click on it. It doesn’t take a genius to figure that out.
Robin says:
kayko - while I did not post the comment you are asking for examples of, I’ll respond. Flower is one of the worst I’ve seen attack Carrie in a personal way. She called her a name that I won’t re-type and that I’ve defeneded Taylor against similar attacks. Flower is just one example, but that’s what you asked for, correct?
I will say that I don’t see you do this “personal attack” thing, but other Taylor fans do.
Kirsten - It’s a blog about Taylor. Expect to see people disagree with your opinion about her. That’s what blogs are about. See? It’s really a simple process that CMT put together to give a voice to it’s “anonymous” fans. They made it anonymous therefor that’s how it works.
They gave a voice to Allison, and the fans that agree and disagree with her.
No one cares that Taylor is famous, there’s alot of people that are famous that are not talented. Most people have a problem with her winning so many awards just because Kanye picked on her. She’s a big girl and Kanye has picked on others including other country stars (Gretchen Wilson). Gretchen didn’t win all the awards just because Kanye picked on her. And, Gretchen can carry a tune. People should be able to voice their opinion about what they think of Taylors talent (or lack thereof) and the awards associated with it since she is clogging up the pop country culture airways and taking awards from people who are actually female vocalist quality (any of the other nominated artists).
You are certainly free to disagree anonymously. So, is all this Taylor love anonymous too? Oh, it’s only fans that disagree that are anonymous I guess.
Kim says:
Nicely said, Robin. I don’t care that Taylor is famous. However, I do care that she wins a CMA award for female vocalist of the year and proceeds to deliver two very out of tune, off key performance. Maybe Taylor should complete her crossover to pop music, where the ability to sing live is not as important as image.
Kirsten says:
Robin - I know not everyone is going to agree with my opinion of Taylor or agree with anyone else that is a fan of Taylor. I meant the comments about Taylor such as, “she bought her record deal with her daddy’s money”, “All she sings about is high school” (which is NOT true if people actually took the time to listen to EVERY single one of her songs. There are plenty of songs of her’s that adults can relate to.) Opinions are fine, but when people clearly don’t know what they are talking about, it just makes themselves look like an idiot. There is a difference between an opinion and a fact. And just different comments about her that has nothing to do with her singing are just simply uncalled for. A lot of it is THE SAME people that come on here and comment about her. You think people would find something else better to do with their time. Honestly. I mean, I personally do not care for Toby Keith, for example. Do I go bashing him in articles about him? No, I don’t. I don’t even care to open up the page and read it because I simply don’t care. I would rather read something else that I enjoy reading.
Also, you said, “Most people have a problem with her winning so many awards just because Kanye picked on her.” I can not tell you how TIRED I am of people saying that. Because that is simply not true. I want to know where people have been before the VMA incident. Living under a rock? Taylor was THE BEST selling artist of 2008, out of every genre of music, and has been winning many awards before that whole thing even happened. Not to mention she sold out her Fearless Tour in minutes in every city before the VMA’s even happened. It’s not like Taylor came out of nowhere when the VMA’s aired. So to say that it’s Kanye’s “fault”, is just plain ignorance. Sure, people felt sorry for her, both fans and not fans of her, but to give him credit for her fame is just simply false. You just want to find some reason why ehr beat out your favorite. You want a reason? Because she has fans that have been by her side WAY before the VMA’s. It’s only natural that an artist grows in the industry and starts to get awards after some time. 2009 is Taylor’s year, and that’s the bottom line. Just because Taylor rose to the top in her career of only 3 years having her music out, and others haven’t, doesn’t mean it’s not supposed to happen. You can’t put a timeline on fame.
bcr says:
To everyone who’s upset about Taylor’s FVOY award, you need to understand that that award is NOT a singing award. It’s the only CMA award given to a Female, all of whom are referred to as “Female Vocalists”. The term “Vocalist” is used just as “Artist” would be. It is awarded based on outstanding achievement in the past year, including quality of Perfomances(not vocals), both recorded and live. It’s to honor who had the best year and that without a doubt was Taylor Swift. So understand what the award is for and please stop using that as a reason to bash her. Many people like me would rather see Taylor perform, even without spot-on vocals, than some of the other artists who were in the nominations this year. She’s a great entertainer who appeals to a wider audience than many would have you believe, attracts fans to give country music a listen, and country music should be proud of her.
Robin says:
Kirsten - You said:
““Most people have a problem with her winning so many awards just because Kanye picked on her.” I can not tell you how TIRED I am of people saying that. Because that is simply not true. I want to know where people have been before the VMA incident. Living under a rock? Taylor was THE BEST selling artist of 2008, out of every genre of music, and has been winning many awards before that whole thing even happened. Not to mention she sold out her Fearless Tour in minutes in every city before the VMA’s even happened. It’s not like Taylor came out of nowhere when the VMA’s aired. So to say that it’s Kanye’s “fault”, is just plain ignorance.”
No one said she wasn’t famous or the best selling artist of the year. That does not mean she was the quality to win everything she won. Carrie acheived those exact same accolades in 2006 and 2007 (including all genres) and sold out her cities (including Madison Square Garden) and while she won several awards, she wasn’t even nominated for EOY last year. So, the accolades that you speak of have nothing to do with the awards.
Even though Carrie sold was the biggest female country concert draw, voters of the CMA’s appearantly didn’t think that her shows warranted her being nominated EOY. Well, same is said of Taylor’s vocals. While she entertained a bunch this year (she didn’t even sell as many concert seats as Miranda Lambert did though), she is not female vocalist quality. The award nominations were primarily because of the Kaney incident and afterwards most country reporters were saying he’d just handed her CMA wins and it happened.
She was FAMOUSE before the VMA incident, but she wouldn’t have won ALL the awards she won without it. She would have won many of them, but not all of them.
You say “You just want to find some reason why ehr beat out your favorite. You want a reason? Because she has fans that have been by her side WAY before the VMA’s.”
That’s not why she won awards - fans. Voters of the CMA voted. I didn’t have a favorite for FMVOY except I didn’t think Martina had a strong enough year to win and I didn’t think Taylor had the vocals to win. So, I expected it would be either Reba, Carrie or Miranda and therefor I had no favorite to win.
So, your assumptions are just that - assumptions not facts.
bcr - somone disagreeing with you and saying that they don’t believe Taylor should have won FVOY IS NOT BASHING HER. It is a different opinion than you have it is NOT bashing. You are bashing people by claiming it is. THAT is getting old.
Kim says:
Thanks, Robin. I am so glad we got a lesson on what the FVOY award really is. However, quality of performance includes the quality of vocals. It was a shame that the EOTY and FVOY had the worst sounding performance of the night- and it’s not the first time. Can’t blame it on the Sommet Center’s sound system this time. Everybody else but Chesney sounded great!
timcun says:
bcr said “The term Vocalist is used just as Artist would be. It is awarded based on outstanding achievement in the past year, including quality of Performances (not vocals), both recorded and live.”
The dictionary defines the word “vocalist” as “singer.” So to me “Female VOCALIST of The Year” means “Female SINGER of The Year.” If it doesn’t have anything to do with singing, then it should be renamed to “Female ARTIST of The Year” or “Female with the Most Achievements of The Year.”
Nicole says:
Alls I have to say is……Can we have more blogs about REBA??? lol Please and Thank you……Not the most on topic thing, but it kind of makes sense…. :)
Kirsten says:
Robin - Well I think the reason why Carrie didn’t win was because she didn’t do much this year compared to other artists. She wasn’t on tour nor did she have a new album out. Now will Carrie win awards next year? Probably. Especially since Taylor won’t have a new CD out until fall 2010 and Carrie just put out a new album and is going on tour again (I think I heard she is…?). Now, even though Taylor is my favorite artist, I will say I was surprised she won FVOTY. Not because I think she didn’t deserve it, but because Carrie just seemed to dominate the catagory the past couple years anyway. I have to agree with bcr about what they said FVOTY stands for. But if you want to talk about comparing singing ability… Yeah, everyone knows Carrie is a phenominal singer and she does have a higher range than Taylor. Nobody can deny that. But that doesn’t necessarily define what a great singer is to everyone. I love Carrie Underwood as well, but I will say that I love Taylor’s voice over Carrie’s. Why? Because you don’t have to sing high notes in order for me to love you. The way Taylor connects her songs to the listener is why so many people love her voice. Her voice is unique and I love it. I prefer Taylor’s tone of voice over Carrie’s high notes. I do love Carrie as well, just saying why I prefer Taylor over Carrie as Taylor being my number one choice. And even though you don’t agree with me, I do think she can sing. Taylor sings with raw emotion and to me and many others, it’s beautiful.
Robin says:
Kirsten - I’m not talking about this years CMA’s. I’m talking about 2008 CMA’s. Carrie was in the middle of the biggest country female tour of the year (over a million tickets sold) and she wasn’t even nominated for EOY. She won it at the ACM’s for the very reason that she sold more tickets than anyone in country music except for Kenny. I’m saying that even though LAST year was as big a year for Carrie as this year is for Taylor, the CMA’s didn’t hand her every award.
That’s fine - I don’t really have a problem with that because other artists did some great things too. They gave Taylor ever major award because of Kanye. That doesn’t mean she didn’t deserve some of them just like Carrie did and Carrie won some of them. Taylor wouldn’t have won every major award when having a similar year as Carrie did last year had it not been for that VMA event.
I think Taylor had a legitimate claim to EOY and album of the year because her album was the biggest selling of the year (even though I personally think it is a juvenile record). I think she had a legitimate claim to EOY because she had a huge year. Although I understand why people believe that she did not deserve the win when people like Miranda Lambert sold more concert tickets than Taylor did last year. People don’t know that because they focus on Taylor. Kenny Chesney has won EOY for four years and still hasn’t won the Male Vocalist award because he’s not a great vocalist and Nashville knows he’s a great entertainer, but not vocalist. Taylor is not even as good a vocalist as Kenny is.
People don’t have a problem that she won awards, she’s had a phenominal commercial year. They had a problem that she won everything major and especially FVOTY when she just embarrassed us with two off key performances in that very same show.
Taylor may sing with raw emotion but the problem is not that “I don’t like her voice”. The problem is that she sings off key. It’s a problem when the FVOTY sings off key in every live televised program she has sung on. Again, I like the girl personally and I’m (and 99% of the people who post on the subject here) not against her having a career. And, people should be able to post their opinions without being called “anoymous” bullies when CMT created this system and most people don’t care if you know who they are. And, Allison helps create this situation and then complains about it.
ALJID says:
To bcr…you mentioned quality of the performances both recorded and live? Do performances have anything to do with selling out albums and tickets? It’s about the voice, both on record and live..it’s to honor which singer was the best of the year in terms of vocals on records produced in the time frame and in terms of her vocals live..Given the definition, it’s clearly obvious that the other nominees in the category deserved it more then Swift. And I’m not saying it was a lock for Underwood because I was definitely hoping for Miranda Lambert if ever Underwood didn’t get it. If you think her opening performance at the CMAs and her performance of Fifteen was the best of the night, I really don’t know what kind of Female Vocalist of the Year in the genre of country music you are looking for. And it’s not just on CMT, it’s unanimous all over the web. Her performances that night were train wrecks (as usual). And her fans can’t just keep on saying she was sick or her dress weighed her down or she was nervous. She can’t be that sick all the time.
EOTY? Yeah, why not…the kids are screaming so hard. Vocalist of the year? Just the word “vocalist” in the same sentence with Swift is pretty hard to comprehend..She wouldn’t have made it past the first rounds of American Idol based on vocals alone..Deal with it..
kayko says:
Well Taylor just got nominated for 8 Grammy’s tonight… that’s right 8. So ALJID deal with that. By the way who needs American Idol when you get 8 grammy nomiation’s.
Foster Grant says:
the Amerian Idol has 4 GRAMMY WINS!!!!
ALJID says:
Those are just nominations..I remember James Blunt got nominated eight or nine times and he didn’t win any so I am fine with it…But I think it’s just you who can’t deal with the fact that she can’t sing. If she performs on the grammys, please be ready with another excuse for her off-key singing.
Actually the Grammy Award Show is my last hope that somehow..quality would win over quantity..The CMAs used to be like that but since that travesty last November they just lost it..The Grammy voters usually go for quality so pray the teenage fad can pull it off..Even Rihanna’s very popular “Umbrella” didn’t win Song of the Year.
barb b says:
you are right flower is the worst
basher she is so jealous of carrie
she cant see straight i read what
she called carrie it was disgraceful
flower has no class she thinks ts is
gods gift to country music she better
think again flower carrie is back get
use to it and kayko you dont know what
you are talking about
Ran says:
I love Taylor Swift, I love when she is a little out of tune and I love when she is a little flat here and there, it makes her real. I know its hard for people who dont like her to understand. I feel sorry that some people think that perfect pitch is what country music is about. Old country music was never about that. Go listen to Hank Williams then come back here and tell me he is not a good singer because he sings through his nose and is a little pitchy. Country music has not changed that much but country music fans have.
ALJID says:
How can some say that someone singing out of tune is ‘real’? And Ran loves it when she’s a little flat there..OMG..What has happened to the listeners? Does this mean the great singers are fake because they are in tune? That made me LOL..
Country is not about being pitch perfect..You should be able to sing as a country artist. You should be pleasing to the ears. IMHO even if a real singer is “under the weather” during his/her performance of a song, he/she should still be able to carry the song he/she is singing..Swift fan’s always defended her performances with the following reasons: she was sick, she was nervous, her dress weighed her down, she couldn’t hear herself because of the screaming teens, she was singing while strumming the guitar and stuff like that. Could Swift be sick all the time? It doesn’t make sense..
She sells yeah but for her to win a vocalist award over other great singers when no single blog in the world could defend her dreadful live singing is beyond comprehension. Even her studio fixes can’t fix her voice. Can you give us a live vocal performance from her that was worth comparing to Martina’s “Anyway” at the CMAs or Carrie’s “Temporary Home” at the Opry? You can search all your life…
Foster Grant says:
True ALJID. Country music is about telling a story. A good storyteller has a good delivery. A good county artist should have a good voice too, and yes there are country artists without the greatest TONE, but at least they can stay in tune and follow the music. You would think that someone who is such a prolific writer would be able to follow the music on their own songs.
S says:
The bullying of Taylor Swift (as Alison calls it) doesn’t just happen on the CMT site. If you Google “Taylor Swift can’t sing” you’ll get pages of hits from a lot of web sites and blogs where people are saying the same thing….
D Trotter says:
Oh, ok S, that must make it alright then if it happens on other places too.
Ty says:
I find it amazing that she can’t even sing her own songs that she co-wrote with Liz Rose. Most writers can stay in tune with their songs–maybe not have a great voice–but still sing the song. I have never heard Swift sing one of her songs in tune which makes me believe that a lot is done in the studio to make her sound ok on records just to sell to the tweens. Her record label has marketed her to the max and will do so until the tweens grow out of her type of music. Shame on them for taking advantage of the kids that way. It is all about money.
D Trotter says:
Kirsten, great comments! So refreshing to read sentences that are logical, focused and well thought out.
Then, on the other hand, we have the cyber-bullies. ‘ve heard of self-fulfilling prophecies before, but this may be the first self-fulfilling blog. Alison talks about bullies, and PRESTO!! Out come the bullies, totally ignoring the blog topic but demonstrating it to the nth!
(My favorites are the ones who say, “I just tell the the truth — that’s not being negative! I have nothing against her personally!”)
ALJID says:
It’s the hard cold truth D Trotter. She can’t sing..
Swilly says:
HAHAHA! boy I pulled a good one! That was ME using an alias! Unlike the Jessi Colter song…I AM Lisa! lol
Robin says:
D Trotter - I’ll say it again. Just because people have a different opinion than you do, does not make them a bully. It makes them someone participating in a conversation about pop culture.
You like her. Good for you. So, are you an over the top fanatic that can’t stand to see anything negative about your favorite? Maybe we’ll start calling people that are fans and can’t take other opinions as cyber freaks. I think that’s fair. Call someone a name for a different opinion, then they can come up with a name to call you?
Why does so many people leave their “negative” opinion about Swift “all the time like a broken record” like you like to say? The same reason people leave their “positive” opinion about Swift “all the time like a broken record”. There are non stop blogs about it as you will see column left.
CMT created this method of response. Their bloggers should not be allowed to then sit and call those fans names. I think Allison should be ban from blogging on CMT for doing what they delete posters for doing.
Foster Grant says:
bravo robin
Peacock Queen says:
How ironic that Ms. Bonaquro would write this article just after Americans celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday. One of the things I have always been most thankful for in my life is the fact that I was born in the greatest country the world has ever known. I never take any of my freedoms for granted. Not one of them, ever. I am most thankful that I have the right to make choices in my life, based on my own individual likes and dislikes. Music is art; art is music. I get to CHOOSE my art, just as I choose which brand of clothes to wear, which type of food I eat, and where I go to pray. I am not a Taylor Swift fan. Neither her vocals nor her music appeal to me. They do not have to appeal to me, either. I am an adult, and an individual. I am also an AMERICAN.
Taylor Swift is a recording artist, with the emphasis on “art.” If you think Taylor Swift is a great musical artist, fine. I do not. I should not have to suffer the indignity of being called a bully, or a basher, simply because someone’s art does not appeal to me. Applying negative labels to someone simply because they do not agree with you one hundred percent all the time is the most childish behavior of all. It is my RIGHT to choose who I listen to, and who I do not. If I respect your right to choose your art, you should respect MINE.
Another freedom I never take for granted: freedom of speech. When you come on this site and exclaim how much you like, or love, an artist, you are exercising your First Amendment right. When someone comes on this site and states that they personally do not care for an artist’s music, they are also exercising their First Amendment right. Do not trample on someone’s rights simply because you are too immature to accept the fact that not everyone will always agree with you. That is what makes us individuals. THAT is what makes us AMERICANS.
Swilly says:
Peacock Queen, have you been watching reruns of Green Acres featuring the Oliver Wendel Douglas speeches? I’m just waitng for the Drum and Fife Corps to start playing.
Redmaz says:
Have you took time to check out any that Americana/Roots Music we’ve been suggesting Peacock Queen? I recall you saying you were going to, but have heard no opinion yet.
D Trotter says:
Actually, Peacock, I don’t think being a cyber-bully is what makes a real American. I kind think real Americans stand up to bullies, and Lisa and Alison’s use of that term is dead-on accurate.
What has Taylor Swift ever done except bring happiness to millions of her fans? You don’t get her, that’s fine, go find someone you DO like, instead of being negative all the time.
Swilly says:
I expected Alison, Dtrotter, and Robin to fall for it.
Foster Grant says:
she brings no happiness to me, or to those she is stealing awards from, simply because she is associated with deep pockets. I am an American and I stand up to bullies. That’s why I will not accept someone attacking me for saying Taylor sucks….she DOES!!!
Swilly says:
lol…this is way good. Sounds like foster grant needs a new prescription, because he’s certainly making a spectacle of himself;)
D Trotter says:
Thanks for providing such a classic example of hater/bully comments, exactly what this blog was all about. Foster Grants can’t disguise you.
flower says:
taylor is amazing,awsome,real,emotional,oh and the entertainer of the year!!!! you go girl!!!!
Foster Grant says:
Taylor SUX…There’s actually a whole website about it and it is quite interesting stuff.
D Trotter says:
I’m sure its a bushel of fun for people into who like making fun of people 9 million times more talented than they are.
Robin says:
D Trotter - you are the cyber bully for trying to make people you disagree with go away. As I say - those over the top fans that can’t take someone else’s opposite opinion are cyber freaks and on top of that cyber bullies.
ALJID says:
If we think Taylor Swift sucks that doesn’t make us cyber bullies. It’s our opinion and it’s the unanimous opinion of all websites that blog about her except CMT which has become almost her own press release machine..
goodguy says:
I am a fan of Taylor Swift. When I read this “hate” mail about Taylor I get a little sad. But information has just come in that Tay just sold out another concert. This one for 50 thousand fans. No need to say more.
D Trotter says:
So now the people who say positive things about Taylor, who visit CMT just to enjoy some stories about someone they admire … now WE are the Bullies? Robin, you have a bad case of pretzel logic.
Let’s put opinions aside and look at simple, indisputable FACTS:
1.Taylor Swift’s CMT blogs receive FAR MORE NEGATIVE comments than any other artist. The NEGATIVITY IS REPETITIVE AND CUMULATIVE, and frequently has nothing to do with the topic of the blog.
2.The aforementioned comments contain MANY instances of rudeness, personalized criticism, and are frequently MOCKING and demeaning in nature.
3. Many of these anonymous comments tell her she doesn’t BELONG in Country Music, she should GO AWAY somewhere, and she shouldn’t be ALLOWED to win awards in her profession.
4.Many comments include totally groundless ALLEGATIONS of manipulation and even wrongdoing, such as Payola, and bought record deals. Such accusations — which would NOT be protected from defamation suits by the First Amendment if published in a newspaper instead of in an ANONYMOUS internet comment — are completely contradicted by well-documented and published accounts of Taylor’s career.
5. The subject of all these RELENTLESS barbs and criticisms? A TEENAGE girl, by all accounts, an extremely nice person, a hard worker, a great role model for young fans, an incredibly successful young artist who has sold more CD’s, set more billboard chart records, and won more Awards than any other recording artist during the last 2 years — and these honors have come from both fans AND Industry professionals in Country Music AND Pop Music alike.
Myself, I think constantly belittling people over and over (point #1) is bullying. Mocking someone (#2)is bullying. Trying to chase somebody away (#3)– yep, bullying. Making up lies and distorting facts to suit your prejudiced opinion (#4), more bullying. Picking on, as Nicole Kidman described her, “a honeybun” — and a vulnerable, teenage girl, to boot, … well, like Katie Perry described the Kanye incident, “like stepping on a kitten”. And picking on someone just because they’re very successful but not your cup of tea?
Redmaz says:
To Dtrotter…you are wrong. ALL of Taylor Swift’s awards have been in Pop. Show me any Roots awards she has won, and I’ll not only retract my statement, I’ll no longer post on the cmt blogsite. Care to make the same offer?
D Trotter says:
Red,I was talking to Robin, about … oh, yes,the blog topic! And you’re talking about … who knows???
Am I missing something? Did you just call the CMA EOTY Award a pop award? Did I mention Roots somewhere in my blog? Could you tell me where? Wanna bet I never mentioned “Roots Awards” ? Whoever’s right never posts on CMT again? Deal??
Redmaz says:
Yes. the CMA EOTY award is a Pop Award. A Pop Country award. If you can prove to me it’s a Roots Country award, my offer still stands. No, you didn’t mention Roots in your blog at all. That’s why I’M here. Remember I’m the music advocate, not you. Unless you specify, everything you say will be challenged by me. It boils down to basic music fundamentals and genre description. I thought I made that clear. You said these honors have come from both fans AND industry proffesionals in Country Music and Pop music alike. That’s not true. Are you trying to tell me Americana/Roots Music is not Country Music? Now…if you would’ve said these honors have been awarded in Pop Music, including Pop Country, I would totally agree, but that’s not what you said. You are the one who lumped ALL of today’s Country Music together, not me. See how this works. This will not change.
Robin says:
D Trotter - People who try to stop people with differing opinions from them by calling them bullies is just that - a bully. Yes, YOU are the bullies because you call other people names because they don’t fawn all over your favorite artist. That’s absolute logic. I defend Swift on every personal attack I’ve seen, but I’ve seen far more of Swifts fans (of which I’ve posted an example that was deleted) attack other artist.
“1.Taylor Swift’s CMT blogs receive FAR MORE NEGATIVE comments than any other artist. The NEGATIVITY IS REPETITIVE AND CUMULATIVE, and frequently has nothing to do with the topic of the blog.”
The above is not a fact. Taylor receives more negative comments because there are more blogs about her than another other artists (proof - column left (and the primary author of those blogs is Alison). So, as a % of blogs, she’s on par. Rascal Flatts gets the same comments about their singing as Swift does and to the same degree as Swift in comparison to the number of blogs about them.
“2.The aforementioned comments contain MANY instances of rudeness, personalized criticism, and are frequently MOCKING and demeaning in nature.”
The above is NO more true than it is for other popular artists. When you are an in the public eye you should expect to receive critism of your work - especially when you win awards and can’t sing on key (a key that you wrote I might add).
“3. Many of these anonymous comments tell her she doesn’t BELONG in Country Music, she should GO AWAY somewhere, and she shouldn’t be ALLOWED to win awards in her profession.”
You are trying to make people that have a different opinion than you do go away. Many of these “anonymous” posters use their actual names. That means their not “anonymous”. You may not know them, but they aren’t hiding. CMT created this method of responding. This music and genre belongs to the fans as much as it does the artists (even more so), so fans of the genre and music in general have the right and reason to voice their opinion. No one thinks she’s “going away”, but they don’t want the voices with a voice speak for the whole.
“4.Many comments include totally groundless ALLEGATIONS of manipulation and even wrongdoing, such as Payola, and bought record deals. Such accusations — which would NOT be protected from defamation suits by the First Amendment if published in a newspaper instead of in an ANONYMOUS internet comment — are completely contradicted by well-documented and published accounts of Taylor’s career.”
Again, the above is said of every popular artist in a ratio to the number of articles and blogs about them.
“5. The subject of all these RELENTLESS barbs and criticisms? A TEENAGE girl, by all accounts, an extremely nice person, a hard worker, a great role model for young fans, an incredibly successful young artist who has sold more CD’s, set more billboard chart records, and won more Awards than any other recording artist during the last 2 years — and these honors have come from both fans AND Industry professionals in Country Music AND Pop Music alike.”
What are you and her going to do in a week when she’s no longer a teenager? Is she going to act like a grown woman and sing about adult things? Are her over the top fantical fans going to learn that she like every other artist is going to have people who do not respect their work? You have also claimed that people bully her by claiming to like her personally, but critisize her voice, music, etc. That’s because some people can seperate people from their work. I’ve had alot of people work for me that I like as people, but are not good employees. Same is said for music. There are artists I like personally but hate/don’t like (and critic) their music, but will give them credit where it is due (personally). There are artists I like musically, but don’t like personally (and call them on bad behavior) (LeAnn Rhimes). It’s called being an adult - having an opinion of music is different than having an opinion of a person.
“Myself, I think constantly belittling people over and over (point #1) is bullying.” You do this to the people you disagree with. “Mocking someone (#2)is bullying.” You do this to people you disagree with. “Trying to chase somebody away (#3)– yep, bullying. Making up lies and distorting facts to suit your prejudiced opinion (#4), more bullying.” You’ve done it all to people you disagree with.
“Picking on, as Nicole Kidman described her, “a honeybun” — and a vulnerable, teenage girl, to boot, … well, like Katie Perry described the Kanye incident, “like stepping on a kitten”.”
Critisizing her for not being able to sing and writing bubble gum music is not “picking” on her. If she can’t take it, she’s in the wrong business. She seems to be taking it just fine, so her over the top fanatical fans should learn to live with the fact that not everyone is going to like who they like and they are going to voice their opinion about it.
“And picking on someone just because they’re very successful but not your cup of tea?” I’ve never thought she could sing even when she first sang live. I thought “Tim McGraw” was a good song and then each song kept being about boys and I figured her writing out - same song - second, third, fourth, fith verse and lost interest.
Like I said, CMT made this anoymous. I have no problem people knowing who I am. Just because no one cares who I am, and CMT keeps people anonymous, doesn’t mean anyone is saying things “just because” they get to be anonymous.
And, Alison shouldn’t be able to blog and call fans with a different opinion than hers names. Posters get deleted for doing what Alison has done.
D Trotter says:
Red, you just don’t get re-name, or claim ownership, of the CMA Awards. They are not called the PCMA’s (”POP COUNTRY” MUSIC AWARDS). No, they are the CMA’s. And Taylor has won a batch of Country Music Awards, so yes, I was correct (although you’ll never admit it).If you want to call your brand the Americana Country Awards, or the Roots Country Awards, no problem.
As for you being an advocate, well, you’re a fine advocate for Americana/Roots Music, the Oral Tradition, the Folk Culture vs Pop Culture perspective in music, but there are many other kinds of music and you are not an advocate of those forms as far I can see. But I have a hunch I know more about many forms of what you call Americana music than you do, so I wouldn’t try to act so elitist or I might start testing your knowledge, “Mr Advocate”.
Robin says:
RedMaz - the CMA’s are a COUNTRY music award show - period - then end. Saying that does not say that there is no other type of country music out there other than popular country. When someone speaks of their family, that doesn’t mean they are referring to every member of their family. Pop country IS country just the same as Roots country IS country. So, whether it be Americana awards or pop country awards, each group has the right to solely use the word country.
D Trotter didn’t need to mention Roots in his/her blog. He/she wasn’t writing about roots country. He/she also didn’t need to specify pop country since most of us here know that Taylor Swift is pop country and not Roots country.
The fundamentals are this; when someone is having a conversation about a parituclar subject, they don’t care about the picking a part of their words.
If you are such a music advocate then you’d respect the fans of that music as much as a genre your trying to sell.
While I usually don’t agree with D Trotter, I certainly wouldn’t try to imply he’s unintelligent because he has a different opinion than I do. You try to imply (and have said straight out) that the people you are talking to are unintelligent. Most of them just don’t care about the brand of country you are selling. While they may be cheating theirselves out of great music, that’s their right to do.
Redmaz says:
I absolutey agree Taylor Swift has won a bunch of Pop Country awards. She has won no Roots Country awards.(Next time specify). I don’t want to call my brand anything. It already has a name(something I learned) As stated, I’m a MUSIC advocate(not just an Americana/Roots advocate) I welcome you to test my knowledge(as long as I can test yours also) And thank you for the title “Mr. Advocate”. Robin, yes the CMA’s are a Country Music awards show. Pop Country.(if you can show me where they are a Roots Country awards show, please do so, I would like to check that out) Did you know there are popular artists in Roots Countr too?(if you’re interested I can give you some names to check out. just ask) I absolutely agree that Pop Country and Roots Country are Country(however they are NOT the same). That’s why the difference in name. One is Pop Music one is Roots Music) You are actually making my case for me. The fundamentals are, refer to what you are speaking of by the correct name, or I will. As far as “selling’ a genre….I’m not (I am talking about basic music fundamentals and genre description) I am well aware most people don’t care about Americana?Roots Music(not what I’m selling), however that doesn’t mean it does not exist. That’s what being a music advocate is all about. So….to both of you, let me just say this, until you show the respect today’s music deserves by using the correct terminology, I will be here to correct you. It’s what I do. I’m a music advocte. I hope you understand.
Robin says:
No one - not one person said it was Roots country. They said it was COUNTRY. And, even if roots country and pop country are different beasts, that doesn’tmean anyone using the term COUNTRY needs to specify - especially when they are talking about an artist that is in the pop country industry. Neither of these types of country owns the label COUNTRY so either can use it - period. If an you were speaking of roots country and just used the term country, then you’d be right as well.
If someone from Texas said they were an American, and someone from New York said “hey wait a minute - I’m an American and from New York, you can’t say your an American, you have to specify which state in the United States you are talking about. And, on top of that, you need to specificy which country in the Americas you are talking about.” they’d be wrong, anyone that fits in the broader category can use the term and be JUST as correct as someone else in another section of that broader category. They don’t need to sub-classify it any more than THEY choose to. You don’t get to choose how far down someone else classify’s a genre in their conversation.
Redmaz says:
You’re wrong,,,. That’s why I’m here. No one except me said it was Pop Country either. Once again, that being my point precisely(thank you for bringing that up) Once again you are making my job quite easy. If I were speaking of Roots Country I would specify so, just as I do when speaking of Pop Country. Until you do the same, I will correct you. I never use the term Country Music without specifying, Roots or Pop. Show me where I have and I’ll retract my statement. The days of just “Country Music” or over, and have been for a long time. Whether you accept this or not is up to you, but it doesn’t change the fact. You are also wrong about me not getting to chose how far down someone else classifies genre in their description, because being a music advocate I can prove them wrong pretty much at will if they do not specify. Basic fundamentals are key in anything you speak of, sports, food, autos, etc. I can give you some examples if you’d like, just ask. How anyone can discuss any topic without knowing basic fundamentals(unless there are still learning)is unacceptable.
What about someone from Costa Rica saying they were American? Would that be fundamentally true because they are from Central America? How about someone from Brazil saying they are an American, because they are from South America. Would that be fundamentally true or false? There is more than one “America” just as there is more than one Country Music. If you don’t specify….I will. Just something else I hope you understand..
Robin says:
No one said it was “pop” country. They said it was COUNTRY. They DO NOT HAVE to sub-classify any further than they want to.
You don’t have to just use the term country if you don’t want to. That’s what makes those YOUR conversations. Other people CAN use it.
And, in regards to the note on “Americans”, I’m supposing you don’t choose to READ comments through.
I said “And, on top of that, you need to specify which country in the Americas you are talking about.”” So, that already addressed your Costa Rica issue. They are American and can use the term. Pop country is COUNTRY and can use that term without sub-classification.
Redmaz says:
However I will pursue. With your reasoning and fundamental outlook on music, you must have no problem with and certainly must agree with the following statement….”Taylor Swift, Kenny Chesney, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, have NEVER appeared on the Country Music Charts, have never been nominated for a Country Music award, and have never been played of Country Music radio” Only two words in front of “Country Music” make this statement true or false. Guess what those two words are?
D Trotter says:
Robin, I’m, done, I don’t see the point of debating anything with someone who refuses to acknowledge measurable facts. Some things really are simply black or white, not shades of gray to be spun this way and that way.
I mean, to DENY Taylor gets more negative comments than any other artist on CMT blogs? To say it’s “not a fact”! Go the blogs, count! Not even close!
In your next line, you DO admit it, but because she “gets more blogs about her”, apparently the fact isn’t a fact. And, according to you, Rascal Flatts have a comparable percentage of negative remarks. (Frankly,I doubt even that’s true. Did you count it?).
Regardless, I’m talking cumulative, repetitive numbers of negative comments — hundreds per month — and you compare that to someone who gets 7 or 8 comments, and a few are criticisms? And you don’t feel the slightest disingenuous?
Robin says:
D Trotter - Yes, I do think that’s a reasonable comparison since Taylor gets many many many more blogs about her than Flatt’s does. The comments are repetitive, because the blogs are repetitive. The blogs are almost exclusively written by one blogger who has cause her to be the most blogged about artist on CMT. People with negative opinions respond to that blogger just as people with positive one’s do.
If Alison blogged about Rascal Flatts a million times a week, then she’d get that many responses (with as many negative one’s) as Swift does. Alison has caused the very problem she is complaining about.
wanda says:
hey redmaz my sister would love you. she would agree with you totally 100%.If i didn’t know any better i would swear u were her but since i know better i don’t mind reading your blogs.
Redmaz says:
Next time you talk to your sister, tell her she’s a very intelligent person. Most people on ths blogsite can’t get past two Pop acts. Their latest kick is who gets bullied more.
barb b says:
kayko ts will never make it through the
first round why do you think she never
tried out because she would have never
made it past SIMOM
Mary H says:
Please, the only reason Taylor’s concerts are selling out is because the parents are buying the little 15-16 year old kids the tickets. If times weren’t so tuff right now parents would be able to afford to buy what THEY like, and Taylor Swift would not have been in the top 50.
Back in my day Taylors kind of music was called “Bubble Gum” Whats next Miley Cyrus????????? Country music will be 15-16 year old girls flippin their hair, biting their fingers and tryin to look sexy singin songs about being 15 and being in love. We need REAL COUNTRY back!!!!!!!!
REALLY, entertainer of the year???????????? How in the world do you get that award when you cant move and sing at the same time??????????????????
Katie says:
Taylor Swift rocks! I love her music and right now I’m wtighting a paper on her. I hate the people who comment as her being a “bad singer” or “she should stop her sob stories” I find her story of being bullied helpful. It show other children that they are not alone and even famouse people we once, and still are, bullied.
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