Susan Boyle
I just finished watching this video from “Britain’s Got Talent” for what was either the third or fourth time in three days, and it still gives me chills. It had all three of show’s frequently snarky judges raving. Why?
The performance is a beautiful rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Mis—at once both subtly emotive and unreservedly belted out into the audience. The singer, Susan Boyle, is a 47 year old unmarried unemployed and self-describedly never kissed villager from a village so blighted that, reportedly, the film crew that was later sent to do a followup biographical segment for the show chose to film in a neighboring village instead of Boyle’s own.
The irony is overwhelming: by singing this song about broken dreams, Boyle—whose life has apparently, up to that moment, been difficult enough to justify the lyrics as autobiography—makes her lifelong dream of success as a professional singer effectively come true. It’s extremely likely now that she’ll end up with a recording contract and a busy performance schedule.
Before she begins to sing, the judges engage in their usual repartee: How old are you? What do you want to do? They, and the audience, react skeptically, though not cruelly, when Boyle says that she wants to be a famous singer like Elaine Page. Scattered applause.
Afterward, Piers Morgan, one of the judges, says, “When you stood there, with that cheeky grin, and said ‘I want to be like Elaine Page’, everyone was laughing at you. No one is laughing now.”
It’s upsetting to see Morgan rain on Boyle’s super-bright parade. She’s just delivered a bravura performance, and he, impressed as everyone else is, responds by reminding her how low our expectations were. But in truth, the meanness, the low expectations, the expectation that Boyle, who had apparently failed in so many other respects, would make a fool of herself, contributes powerfully to the warmth and joy we feel when we are not only pleased but also surprised (shocked, even) by her success.
There’s a larger pattern here—bitterness that makes the sweet sweeter, or pleasure “spiked” with pain as the Chili Peppers put it, can at times be better than the unalloyed original. Personally, I’m taking the lesson to heart in what might seem a strange, but is for me a very rewarding way: I’m listening to whole albums again instead of songs. For albums that other people love, albums that work together as integrated wholes—OK Computer being yesterday’s example—the fact that some of the songs are less likable than others isn’t simply a regrettable price that I can now avoid thanks to effortless re-ordering of digital playlists. Instead, my dislike of some parts of a listened-through album itself somehow contributes to my enjoyment of the whole.
I’ve watched her video soooo many times. I’ve even setup a blog for her:
http://susan-boyle.britains-got-talent.co.uk
I’ve seen her on a couple of Interviews recently, I really hope she doesnt change too much. Cant wait to hear what else she has to offer!
— Lee Gunn · Apr 15, 08:21 AM · #
I would guess the producers had been looking for a female Paul Potts (the pudgy little guy who knocked everybody out with the Puccini aria) for a couple of years.
— Steve Sailer · Apr 15, 11:11 AM · #
I saw her on you tube and she is really breath taking. Have to say that when she came to the stage i thought…oh another one who will be awful, but i was wrong…another lesson for me, not to judge before you see it, in this case hear it.
— gossip girl · Apr 15, 11:39 AM · #
Sort of on the subject of “spice”, the thing that really makes that performance go as a bit of cinema is the reaction shots of the judges; especially of the female judge.
— Tony Comstock · Apr 15, 12:15 PM · #
A friend sent me a link to Susan Boyle’s performance (shown on YouTube). I don’t have the internet at home, so I watched and listened to the videon in the public library (with earphones). Words can’t begin to describe the beauty, the power, of Susan Boyle’s voice. I think this talented woman will go far. And maybe judges and audiencs will not be so quick to judge by appearances alone. Bob Barnes
— Bob Barnes · Apr 15, 12:32 PM · #
My ears couldn’t believe what my eyes were seeing. One doesn’t expect greatness to originate from such a humble container. I almost pity her, however. She has been catapulted from her ordinary life into the jaws of the sensation frenzied media. I pray she will be treated kindly .
— Lynda Marshall · Apr 15, 05:08 PM · #
Wonderful voice; in my youth I modeled a bit and would give away all the “ooos” and “ahhhs” and just “beautifuls” for a talent like hers. I hope she can stay as sweet and down to earth as she seems now. I too hope the media treats her kindly – they can be such a sour bunch.
— Sandra Everest · Apr 15, 05:26 PM · #
She was a amazing and I was reminded of a great talent from many years ago, Kate Smith, who also received similar commentsregarding appearance but went on to stardom and kept her integrity. I have seen/heard so may talanted people over the years never become recognizied because they don’t fit the public’s image of what a star should look like, etc. As a result, we have seen many people with quesionable ability become “stars” and then proceed to maintain their star status because the public is obsessed with their bad behavior. I only hope this woman can achieve her goals and be accepted as she is and not come to much under the influence of an industry that has questionalbe motives. Who knows, it may open the doors to others.
— Joann Fountaine · Apr 15, 07:45 PM · #
Susan Boyle – WOW!!!!
Where did she learn to sing like that? What is her background with singing.
— Diane K. McColl · Apr 15, 10:47 PM · #
I was one of the many who thought – oh here we go with someone who isn’t talented. The moment she began to sing – I knew that God exists! I have listened to her on U-tube over and over today – she is an angel – I pray fame offers her only happiness and does not change her. For those who wish to make her over – I love her just the way she is. Thank you, Susan
— Sharon Nyreen · Apr 15, 10:53 PM · #
Many people have walked around all day with a big smile and a warm heart, THANKS to one dear little Scottish woman with the name of Susan Boyle.
— Lizzie R · Apr 16, 12:21 AM · #
‘A True Star is Born’! Was a voice, was a lady.
Wish she was Irish. Hope she never looses her humanity.
— vincent murphy · Apr 16, 12:30 AM · #
‘A True Star is Born’! What a voice, what a lady.
Wish she was Irish. Hope she never looses her humanity.
— vincent murphy · Apr 16, 12:31 AM · #
God bless this singing angle and shame on you for pre judging
— Donald L Murphy · Apr 16, 02:04 AM · #
God bless this singing angel and shame on you for pre judging
— Donald L Murphy · Apr 16, 02:05 AM · #
In these stressful, difficult times, we all need some escapism. Susan Boyle provided that for millions. We are in awe of her angelic voice and cheer her on in her quest to “make something of herself”. I have listened to her beautiful rendition of “I dream a dream” many times and each time she brings tears to my eyes and chills up my spine. Bravo to a beautiful voice and an even more beautiful person. I think we all wish her much success. She already has an adoring audience and I echo others sentiments that she remains the same lovely, natural lady we fell in love with the moment she began to sing. Wow – it is the stuff fairy tales are made of.
— Bentley · Apr 16, 03:25 AM · #
This video has been seen all over the world as I myself have been sending this beautiful songstress to everyone I know. What a joy to listen to such a beautiful voice, she truly has natural talent. I too like many others hope that she will keep true to herself. I for one will be buying a CD when it comes out. Watching to see how things are going for her from here on in. As a Scot living in Canada and I am enjoying a wee Scottish history moment!
— Jackie Miller · Apr 16, 05:11 AM · #
Susan Boyle went on stage and – without the safety net of great beauty, wit, the gift of gab, timely jokes, chic or trendy style – nailed a big Broadway song using the international language understood all over the world: talent! Her performance was amazing because her magnificent voice can soar and at the same time transport us to Les Miserables’ boulevard of broken dreams.
— M-Lou · Apr 16, 06:26 AM · #
Is there a word that is the opposite of “schadenfreude,” i.e., taking pleasure in someone else’s misery? There should be such a word. The entire world is celebrating the triumph of this brave, incredible woman and new-found world-class talent. There is no doubt this is turning point for Susan Boyle…may it be a turning point for all of us!
— ernie ventnor · Apr 16, 07:49 AM · #
I saw her video on youtube and was astonished to find a whopping 10 million hits on that video alone! I am now for sure that Britain has really got some huge hidden gems in it.
Good luck to Susan…
— Thomas Hosley · Apr 16, 08:28 AM · #
3 minutes of splendid pure singing, transported me to a place and a time in my life,
I wish Susan Boyle happiness and success and hope that her unique personality never changes
— John Ryan · Apr 16, 10:17 AM · #
She lifted just one hand
and effortlessly she soared
and those who watched
tore away the fabric they could see
and saw and heard her voice
and simply followed
— Don Frampton · Apr 16, 11:05 AM · #
i just was in the other room—- im stunned cant wait to get it on a cd
— mike hanson · Apr 16, 11:30 AM · #
I have watched this incredibly lovely lady singing with that wonderful voice over and over and each time not only am I blown away but I also cry, as it is all so beautiful. So refreshing to see a older person, with talent that natural and normal. I hope she will retain this nomality and not be swayed into any drastic changes.
I know she is going to be a big, big star and wish her all the best. Hope we don’t have to wait too long before she makes a CD/DVD.
— Sheila Hogg · Apr 16, 12:38 PM · #
Her voice elevates us high, higher, to a better place, towards an emotionnal purity rarely felt on earth.
— Michele Vernet · Apr 16, 01:05 PM · #
i learned the same lesson that all of those people learned, never judge a book by it,s cover, many years ago. a man walked up to me while i was talking to a beautiful, i tried to brush him off, to get rid of him, but the woman said wait, lets see what he has to say, and out of his mouth came the most beautiful words, that an angel could have spoken to GOD, thats right, his voice was that of an angel, that had so much wisdom and love in it. so, i,m glad to see all of those tight azz, on britan has talent get the smack in the face they deserve, and the reward to see beauty at it,s highest level.
— earth reeves · Apr 16, 01:45 PM · #
See people there is a God. Only he could give this wonderful, lovely woman a voice of an angel. You could give this woman a telephone book to sing the names instead of read them and it would bring tears to your eyes and chicken skin down your spine. I hope all her hopes and dreams come true. So PLEASE! media remember, when or if you say or print anything unkind about Ms.Boyle you are talking or printing about one of Gods true angels. Good Luck Ms.Susan Boyle I can’t say God Bless because he has already done that. You are going to be a super star, if your head is in the clouds, I hope your feet are planted in the ground.
— Deloris Threet · Apr 16, 01:48 PM · #
i learned the same lesson that all of those people learned, never judge a book by it,s cover, many years ago. a man walked up to me while i was talking to a beautiful women, i tried to brush him off, to get rid of him, but the woman said wait, lets see what he has to say, and out of his mouth came the most beautiful words, that an angel could have spoken to GOD, thats right, his voice was that of an angel, that had so much wisdom and love in it. so, i,m glad to see all of those tight azz, on britian has talent get the smack in the face they deserve, and the reward to see beauty at it,s highest level. i have never cried so hard, i,ve watched this video too many times and every time i watch it i cry like a new born baby. and i,m a real singer. at least i thought i was til i saw Susan Boyle.
— earth reeves · Apr 16, 01:50 PM · #
Way to go Susan! You let your simple beauty and pure talent shine for all the world to see – and what a sight it was! I have watched, and re-watched – with goosebumps, with tears, and with joy. I feel happy for you, and hope all your dreams come true. Wow! “Thank-you” for making my spirit soar for those beautiful moments you lifted your voice to the sky.
— Jean Johnson · Apr 16, 03:28 PM · #
HER VOICE BROUGHT TEARS TO MY EYES….WHAT A TALENT…SHE IS SIMPLE BEAUTIFUL!!!! I WILL PRAY THAT SHE CONTINUES TO SING AND PEOPLE NO LONGER JUDGE A BOOK BY THE COVER….SHE IS AN INSPIRATION…AND WONDERFUL INSIDE AS WELL AS OUT. GOD BLESS HER!!!
— Rosemary · Apr 16, 03:38 PM · #
Susan Boyle’s transformation on stage reminds me of a little story I heard many times during my childhood years. “The Ugly Duckling”. Susan was, indeed, the ugly duckling during the stage interview prior to singing. We all had a good laugh at this pitiful woman hoping to be a pretty swan among all the other beautiful swans that were present. But when she opened her mouth to sing, the transformation was instantaneous and absolutely beautiful and captivating. She, in a instant, became that “beautiful swan” receiving the kind of public attention and love most of us will never know. I too have listened to Susan’s video many times with a full heart and tears in my eyes. I suppose there’s a touch of the ugly duckling in most of us, and we, to some degree long for that transformation we witnessed on that stage. Susan, you are a ray of hope for those of us who hope there is something as beautiful within our own lives. We admire your courage for stepping out on that stage and love you for the beauty and passion in your voice.
— Don Greene · Apr 16, 03:53 PM · #
Ms. Susan Boyle is true, sweet, proof that GOD truly exists and CAN be seen in the eyes….and voices of one another. I pray that ALL her dreams come true and give thanks to the Lord for using such a sweet, gracious, lady as evidence of the blessings and love He has for us all. Sing on, sweet angel!!
— Lisa in LA · Apr 16, 03:59 PM · #
I keep watching the video on U Tube, Susan Boyle is a fantastic singer who deserves to succeed, think Simin Cowell should sign her up pronto. Hope she does not change too much.
— Sue Rickards · Apr 16, 04:04 PM · #
I’ve watched the video 3 times; she is amazing. What a wonderful story! -Lisa in Ohio
— Lisa · Apr 16, 04:26 PM · #
Miss Boyle’s performance was nothing short of awesome, inspirational and magnificent. I haven’t stopped watching it or crying since my sister sent me the link yesterday evening. The orchestration behind it is so lush. I had forgotten how beautiful the song is. When you read Susan Boyle’s story about her life of devotion to the care of her mother until she died several years ago at 91 and how she didn’t sing for years, you wonder how many other wonderful talents are undiscovered. This performance reaffirms my belief in being so inspired by a magnificent voice.
— Jeffrey · Apr 16, 04:47 PM · #
Centuries ago the Scots, in battle, looked up and saw a white cross sideways on a blue sky and saw grace from heaven and St. Andrew who was too humble to be killed with a cross upright. Centuries later a Scot wrote Amazing Grace. On Easter Weekend in front of a hositile crowd and three white crosses on a blue field we see humble Grace again from Scotland.
— mike edwards · Apr 16, 05:09 PM · #
This just proves, Hollywood standards are a lie.
— diane · Apr 16, 05:29 PM · #
Susan made me proud to be scottish she brought tears to my eyes what a wonderful voice
— stuart montgomery · Apr 16, 06:24 PM · #
A great lesson on how judgmental we, as humans are when so often someone such as Susan Boyle prove there is so very much more than meets the eye. I am humbled. It is a reminder to look deeper and listen more intently.
— Karen · Apr 16, 06:25 PM · #
I would like to congratulate susan boyle for her wonderful singing on Britains got talent, This is what the show is about and more power to her.
Not only did she make all of us sit up and be counted for our lack of human
kindness and our trust that everyone is entitled to a fair go, but she proved that looks and the way we dress do not make the person, since I have heard this lady being interveiwed I have realised she is what she truthfully told the judges on sats show, an ordenary person with a wonderful talent who was never given the chance to shine, well on sat she shined, the brightest star for a long time, may this continue the way Susan wants it and not by what record producers think, good luck Susan.
— Linda Margaret Barker · Apr 16, 06:40 PM · #
Ms. Boyle stood there for all of us that have ever felt overlooked, ridiculed, dismissed and with simplicity and humility opened her mouth and let the voice of angel fall over that auditorium, she soared and how joyful and happy could we have all been for her for us in her voice. Inner beauty can so easily be transformed with outer beauty when one is speaking their true spirit and she did.
— Sally Cheyne McDonald · Apr 16, 07:12 PM · #
Susan Boyle is a beautiful woman, unaffected, unspoiled and in possession of a gift only a benevolent creator can bestow on a human being. Thankfully she will now share that gift with all of us.
— Roger Carroll · Apr 16, 07:48 PM · #
She is an inspiration for all and especially women of her age. Many women never got a chance to live their dream whether it was taking care of your children, your parents or any other reason. Now it’s her time…. always believe and don’t stop dreaming.
— Susan Horn · Apr 16, 07:53 PM · #
CUDOS to you Susan Boyle. You wowed them, and me also. Fantastic performance and what a voice. All my best to you, you deserve it.
— Mary Lorenzen · Apr 16, 08:36 PM · #
Susan,needless to say, I was blown away by your performance. When you are in New York you can bring pebbles to my house in New Jersey and I will gladly “dogsit” while you are “wowwing” the Broadway crowds!
— brian brady · Apr 16, 08:57 PM · #
Pure,untainted and a chosen angel sent from GOD to walk (and sing) among us. Now I know why I was so blessed by GOD to be born in SUSAN BOYLE’S time. Susan, you are the most beautiful woman of great character and talent I have ever seen or heard. I am extremely grateful to share the same planet with you. GOD truly has blessed your heart and soul. It’s so true——GOD saves the BEST for last. You lived your life taking care of your Mom and didn’t expect anything in return. GREAT TALENT and COMPOSURE. Now it’s your time and turn. You made my heart soar and tears flow. I love you.
— sheilaangevine · Apr 16, 09:17 PM · #
What the hell just happened here?
— JA · Apr 16, 09:20 PM · #
Pure,untainted and a chosen angel sent from GOD to walk (and sing) among us. Now I know why I was so blessed by GOD to be born in SUSAN BOYLE’S time. Susan, you are the most beautiful woman of great character and talent I have ever seen or heard. I am extremely grateful to share the same planet with you. GOD truly has blessed your heart and soul. It’s so true——GOD saves the BEST for last. You lived your life taking care of your Mom and didn’t expect anything in return. GREAT TALENT and COMPOSURE. Now it’s your time and turn. You made my heart soar and tears flow. I love you. Don’t ever change SUSAN. Greatest singer I have ever heard.
— sheilaangevine · Apr 16, 09:22 PM · #
It is magnificent that this lovely woman is receiving a world wide outpouring of (well deserved) love and admiration.
Her voice leaves me transported —
In regard to not being a Hollywood ‘type’ — neither was Ethyl Merman — and generations of people loved her singing. Frankly, Susan is on a whole different plane … I only hope that she has some friends who help keep her life at least a little bit simple, and protect her from the challenges that may arise.
I can just imagine her Mom — knowing what brilliance her voice has — thinking that, “You know, people might like that. Maybe you should give it a try.”
Thanks to her, the entire world gets to enjoy Ms. Boyle’s magic.
— William · Apr 16, 10:24 PM · #
enjoyed it well done susan your going to make a lot of people happy with your amazing voice
— a thurgill · Apr 16, 10:57 PM · #
Do you know why….we love Susan Boyle? She is Cinderella-at-the-ball.
She’s the RL Elle Woods and Alex Owen.
— matoko_chan · Apr 17, 01:51 AM · #
It was the most amazing voice I’ve ever heard…She was so humble and nice without the pretentiousness…..
I certainly hope the world is kind to her and she wins this competition and makes it big…..
I am sure her parents are looking down on her…….and blessing her………..
I am concerned that others might take advantage of her….since she is from a village….
i hope and pray that she finally gets to live her dream…….and lead a happy life……..
— aj · Apr 17, 03:07 AM · #
I figured she’d be like Jim Nabors, hokey w/a heavenly voice. Even if Susan doesn’t win, she has a recording contract in her near future, if A&R prof’ls have their heads screwed on right. I wish she could learn & sing some of my songs, as like Susan,I have a dream too. And Susan would make my original songs superb! Anyway, I don’t expect her to read my little post in this sea of fame that she and the wwweb have generated. I hope all the folks who a registering her name in domain names don’t end up cyber squatting, as it is her name! Anyway, Congratulations Susan! I’d buy your CDs in an instant!
— wendy · Apr 17, 06:38 AM · #
I was absolutely bowled over by Susan Boyle’s performance. I pre-judged her like most people. ‘Sensational’, Susan brings hope to so many of us who really need a lift. And to be 47 years old and unpredictable makes it all the more special. It just goes to show that if we have a dream we should never give up regardless of age. Well done Susan and Thankyou for the uplift that was so needed. God Bless You. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
— Pamela · Apr 17, 09:02 AM · #
All I can say is WOW! Her voice is spectacular but her spunk is beyond belief. I can only wonder what thoughts were going through her mind as she stood on that stage. She must have known that everyone was ready to laugh her off. Then she blew them away. What she did is everyman’s and everywoman’s dream … to get up and do what you love to do as only you know how. May she be wildly successful but may she remain as humble and unassuming as she appears to be. She’s as real as they come. Bravo!!!!!
— Frank in the US · Apr 17, 08:55 PM · #
I just heard an old charity recording of hers from 1999. It’s even better than this one. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5ETPG26ALE
— Ralph · Apr 17, 09:05 PM · #
Agreed – she has a superb voice, but anyone who knows anything about voice prouction must realise that this voice has had “training”.
Such phrasing and sustaining of notes,the breathing and control do not come naturally, no matter how fine a quality of the voice itself. This is not to take anything away from the wonderful talent nor indeed from the sensitivity and passion of her interpretations of the music and lyrics ( better demonstrated in Cry me a River). Her musicality is a joy. She deserves every sucess she will undoubtedly get. Hope she is treated well.
Miranda
— Miranda Spiers · Apr 18, 12:59 PM · #
I cried and love for a human being who is more than a human being among us all.It sad to see how we look at someone and say words to ourselves that she is not the right one and we always think that we have to be the pretty one or the handsome one to be in world stages. Good for you susan .Go for it and prove farther that you really have and more.Love belita Great job,great and magnificent voice.
— belita c rodriguez · Apr 18, 03:18 PM · #
All this from someone who suffered oxygen deprivation as an infant!
http://www.johnmaszka.com/whatchagotgirl.html
— John Maszka · Apr 20, 08:11 PM · #
Susan, you are an angel sent from God walking among us. You continue to inspire me to my very best at whatever I attempt to do. In addition to having an angelic voice, you also have a warm and unselfish heart, giving up the best years of your life taking care of your mother. Please don’t change, you are captivating just as you are. I love you so much. With many hugs and prayers, Debbie
— Debbie Summers · Apr 22, 02:29 AM · #