Rise to Fame or Temporary Gain?
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Does the phrase, “You’re going to Hollywood!” or “It’s a yes for me”, sound familiar to you? These iconic phrases come from the TV competitions watched all across the nation. Some of us can relate to fantasizing about being up there on the big stage, singing our hearts out to the judges, hoping for a future in stardom. That being said, it doesn’t only have to be a dream, but it can happen if you really want to pursue it. We’ve seen young artists like Grace VanderWaal, Angelica Hale, Iam Tongi, and Abi Carter compete in such competitions in front of the world and gain record deals in the end. However, it's important to consider the price that comes with the exposure. Winning a singing competition might bring some quick fame to your name, but does it truly guarantee a long-lasting music career?
All of the big TV talent shows, such as “The Voice,” “American Idol,” “America’s Got Talent” and “X-Factor,” have produced some hit artists of today. For example, everyone knew who Kelly Clarkson was after she won the first season of “American Idol” in September 2002. And of course, let’s not forget the two iconic groups that filled every playlist in the 2010s: Fifth Harmony and One Direction, both originating from “X-Factor.” These now adult artists have been in the public eye since they were in their teenage years. Through the human eye, we can clearly assume that joining those competitions changed their life forever. It wasn’t easy to get used to the limelight, but they gained wisdom through their experiences in the industry. They made a name for themselves and continue to grow within their careers as public figures.
As these TV singing competitions continue, many winning contestants go on to have successful careers. However, after a few years, questions such as, “What happened to so-and-so and where are they now?” arise. It is a testament to how much of a gamble it is to devote a life to the entertainment industry.
In the end, these competitions serve as a platform for exposure. If a contestant performs well, they will begin to gain a following of fans, increasing the chances of a better opportunity in due time. However, some people are unable to perform well enough to get the attention and exposure they need to start their careers. Too many talented individuals are forced to fade back into the crowd. Not only is this because of the fierce competition, but timing, marketing, and personality can play a crucial role in how the performance is perceived by the audience as well. As a result, even winners sometimes struggle to maintain momentum after the show ends.
Singing competitions are a battle that embodies the survival of the fittest. Even though there are winners and losers, at the end of the day, there always remains a choice to keep chasing the dream. There will always be doors; it is just up to the person if they want to open them and see what is on the other side. Success does not always come from winning—it can appear in the form of persistence, growth, and learning the lessons that life teaches. True passion and tenaciousness are often what determine long-term success, regardless of the immediate outcomes and naysayers.
