Famous Female Pop Stars Who Can't Actually Sing
Emma Martinez Quick Links
There aren't always strict requirements for becoming rich and famous (ahem, Kim Kardashian). Theses days, with auto-tuning software, it's possible to make just about anyone sound like they are an amazing singer. Unfortunately, that's often the case. Here are a few incredibly successful female pop vocalists who are talented in many ways, but can't sing to save their lives.
Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez is known as a triple threat- a singer, a dancer, and an actress. She's surely a powerhouse, having been the first person to have a #1 album and film at the same time, and we all know she can dance. But there's a reason why her fans aren't lining up for tickets to her concerts. She almost NEVER sings live. And for good reason- J.Lo might have a whole lot of talent, but she simply cannot sing. If you can bear it, listen to this exclusive studio recording, where she laughs nervously at her inability to stay in key.
Rihanna
Rihanna is one of the most successful pop stars of our generation, with a $90 million net worth and more than 12 #1 singles. Her status and power in the industry is undeniable, as are her gorgeous looks and fierce attitude. But can she actually sing? Absolutely not. Rihanna notes that when she began recording, she had never taken a vocal lesson, and didn't understand simple vocal terminology. There too many live performance recordings to prove her lack of vocal talent to pick from, but here's just one.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez is exploding on the music scene lately as perhaps the biggest up-and-coming star of the year. Following the well-worn path of Disney child stars before her, she is now transitioning from kid actress to pop star. She may have great style and catchy tunes, but her voice is impressing no one. Check out this incredibly flat version of her hit single "Naturally" for proof.
Cassie
Cassie came onto the scene in 2006 with the catchy hit single “Me & U”. The tune was so great that Diddy agreed to co-sign her to his label, Bad Boy Records. Unfortunately, as soon as she stepped onstage to sing the song live, things took a turn for the worse. Her performance of “Me & U” that year on BET was inexplicably bad – lifeless, breathy, depressing. Many site this performance as the reason for her lack of future success. Cassie herself has quoted "I am aware that my live performances have been pretty bad... no excuses, I'm still getting over stage fright”. Poor girl!
Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey is often depicted as a modern-day Lolita for her girl next door vs. vixen aesthetic. She sure does have great branding, but that doesn't make up for her palpable lack of vocal talent. Lana is a great example of the profound power of marketing in today's world. She has acknowledged this herself, saying "you cannot expect a lot from my live shows... I just pray and hope that things will work out". She certainly could have used those prayers during her live SNL performance, which ties with Ashlee Simpson for perhaps the worse ever.
