SYDNIE vs LOREN: Two powerhouse female vocals. Two Got Talent shows. One iconic song. Let's GO!
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- čas přidán 13. 06. 2024
- So many of you have requested I do this comparison, and I thought it was a great idea! Especially when I discovered that they both sang the EXACT same arrangement, in the EXACT same key!
In this video I will analyse their singing and performances both from a technical point of view, as well as how it connected with me. In the final analysis, though, it is always going to come down to personal preference...
Who was YOUR favourite in this unintended battle? Why?
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I read the comments and I'd like to use different words or adjectives in presenting what I hear in both performances.
Loren is the technical expert vocalist delivering the song with better and more complete vocal chops clinically. Often when you execute a song clinically emotions are sacrificed. Ideally you don't but not many can pull off clinical and deeply emotional side by side. Loren is much more a pro and a more seasoned vocalist which is no surprise because she has been in the business a lot longer as well as being 6 years older than Sydnie. In 2012 she came 12th in The Voice USA (also been on BGT and AGT as well sung in a movie blockbuster) so that's extensive singing experience at a high level. Loren was signed to quite a big record label at the age of 19 and is a graduate of a very prestigious music college in the USA (Berklee College of Music in Boston).
Sydnie is the singer with more expressive vocals who doesn't just sing but lives the song and injects much more of herself into the song as she is much more aligned with living the lyrics of the song of chasing a dream over the rainbow. Indeed this is probably what draws people to Sydnie rather than Loren while Johan having the technical knowledge of vocal pedagogy who can appreciate the technical aspects of vocals leans towards Loren.
As for me I want it all. I want the best of both worlds. I want a Loren and Sydnie mutant produced in a laboratory of extraordinary vocalists. Both great in their own right but combining the best qualities and elements of both will create a superwoman of a vocalist. The dream continues. The search goes on! Over the rainbow we go.
Your description is terrific. So, my question is, why, with the vocal chops that Loren has (I totally love her), did she never make the finals of any show she entered? And Sydnie (who I also love) won the prize (probably wasn't even close). My take is that first, Sydnie is much more relatable for most people (funny, vulnerable, down-to-earth, easy to pull for). And second, she touches the emotions of the listener more with how she delivers the song(s). And what we "FEEL" from a singer is the most important part of any performance (IMO). That's why the audience continues to applaud long after she finishes. She is my all time favorite singer on any talent show, and I've seen many, because I can listen to her performances over and over and continue to FEEL deeply. I think Sydnie is going to be a SuperStar.
@@wajj1842 Loren made BGT finals and was Top Ten (9th overall). People relate to free, honest and emotional over technical, polished and clinical everyday because you can't be ignorant about the emotions you feel feel but you can be ignorant about knowledge of technique. Feelings and emotions you cannot not feel it in your heart when you are touched but with knowledge when you don't have it you don't know what's going on in your head. Prowess of technique will make you a vocal expert. Depth of emotions a vocal artist. Loren also has performed a duet on Michael Buble's album in 2018.
OH YES, PLEASE! Put the techno & mutant super vocals together! I’ll buy!!!❤❤❤
@@ThelSuperlKing Thanks for correcting me. I forgot that Loren made the finals on BGT. I was remembering that she wasn't in the final 3. That said, I found it amazing that someone as Super talented as Loren was denied the prize. I think a lot of people resented her professional background. And I would never imply that she was only technique. She was very capable of delivering strong feelings. However, I think that Sydnie is on another level when it comes to how she makes the audience Feel. For me, they are the 2 best singers Ever on any talent show. I hope they become good friends.
I’m sure they will do a duet one day and what a performance that would be
If Loren was singing at a restaurant whilst you were on a date it’d be a lovely ambiance.
If Sydnie was singing you’d have to stop chatting and pay attention to her
I am 74 years old. Sidnie is a once in a generation talent.
When I heard Lauren version, I was amazed at her technical skills.
But that is not what makes you a star.
What makes you a star is your emotional connection to the audience.
My point is I felt Lauren, but I didn't cry.
During Sidnie's rendition, I felt the song. I felt the emotion. I teared up a number of times, and then she had me.
Over my years, very few performers have been able to do that to me.
I believe that's the difference between great singers and great performers.
Sidnie compares to the greatest performers in my time: Judy Garland, Barbara Streisand, and Whitney Houston.
Only if she can reach their consistency and longevity will she be able to stand with them.
She has the pipes, the personality, and the ability to draw you in emotionally. Those are the attributes that make a star.
The main difference is that I love listening to Lauren sing, but I would buy Sidnie's albums.
WELL expressed! What you share has been proven true over time. It's what a singer makes us feel that matters, not what we think and analyze later. This is why Loren, despite having the support of producer David Foster, has not really gone anywhere professionally. Sydnie has that elusive star quality.
I totally agree with you..
I express same emotions with you! I just wish these people who keep on saying her winning is ‘fixed’ should come to reality!!! Sydney won!!!
I am 75 years old and you took the words from my mouth... If you wouldn't 't have said it, I would!!! The Magic of Sidney is to carry us into her songs with her... we become in fusion with the song and her. She has the charisma that subdues you, be it when signing or stage presence.
Loren is the epitome of felinity, Sydnie has a little bit more "fire" into her personality. Her sensitivity goes into the extremes from strength/power to delicate like the skin of a new born. She is full of joy of life,, she bites into it full mouth... Loren is more a mature women that is settled.
"Sidnie compares to the greatest performers in my time: Judy Garland, Barbara Streisand, and Whitney Houston. "
Potentially yes but in the technical department she needs more work. Emotionally though Sidnie trumps all of them.
Lauren has a lot of talent but Sydnie brings an epic larger-than-life quality to the song. And when I say epic, I mean not just grandeur and heroic proportions, I mean a work of art showing a human journey in a uniquely powerful, very particular yet completely universal way, on monumental scale. Each of Sydnie's performances so far has this quality. You get the first verse *gently* presenting exposition; then a development section leading to a climax; then a denouement. The climax here is "place where the DREAMS that you DARE to DREAM really DO come TRUE" ("True" magisterially closing out the section with the virtuoso falsetto pitch and the ornamented cadence). There are very vivid word pairings here: the way the second "DREAM" as an active verb picks up and transforms "DREAMS" (slightly lower energy, being a noun) and then the active verb DO (long u sound) is echoed by TRUE, which although being an inherently less energetic part of speech then the verb "do" grammatically might be weaker, since it's the word "true" in rakes on higher energy and power by signifying realization, actualization, a transcendence of mere fantasy. It becomes in her delivery an anthem of actualization and fulfillment and self-realization.
By the time she belts out "why oh why can't"; it's as if she's literally shouting, pleading up toward the heavens (over the rainbow) -- which her SOARING voice seems to reach, as if smashing through a celestial threshold. and then the "I", also soaring but with a hint of vulnerability and sadness or wistfulness or melancholy of LONGING.
By the way, the glories of her execution of "Do" and "True" are fully anticipated in the perhaps most piercingly, viscerally beautiful sound in the song "blue" in "skies are BLUE."
In other words, you get a cumulative and detail-by-detail effect of pure RADIANT POWER from Sydnie that I'm afraid Lauren can't match, and a power which trivializes details like slit-second breath pauses or other technical minutiae. I'm sure those nuances entail enormous skill to pull off, but the Sydnie rendition is simply an experience that washes over you and pierces through your awe-struck ears directly into your heart giving a dopamine rush that almost sexual, drug-like and spiritual at the same time, like contact with something truly mysterious and glorious.
Oh yeah, the way she delivers the word DARE (again, larger-than-life, the infused **heroic** - yet tender at the same time! - quality) ... I could go on and on: *EVERY DETAIL* is as magnificently sculpted and executed as it is thought-out, to achieve overwhelming aesthetic and emotional power.
Love you analogy and breaking down of the song Over the Rainbow.
I loved the emotion Sydnie put in her singing. To me, that's what a singer is supposed to do...make us feel.
Both were fabulous but Lauren seemed totally professional and prepared where Sydnie seemed totally real and from the heart, a natural talent who feels every note in her heart before it reaches her head. No singer has ever affected me as Sydney has. If they were both performing in my city in two different places, I would stand in line for hours to hear Sydnie sing!!!
Yeah! Me too! Let Sydnie come to Sydney, soonest!!! ❤
They are both amazing natural talents and have an immense amount of vocal training. Sydnie is much better at altering her tone and expression of consonants and vowels to convey emotion. That surely comes from her musical theatrical experience and aspirations.
Sydnie, Sydnie, Sydnie…as a classically trained professional musician with advanced degrees, I must say, she brings the raw emotion to the forefront. She moved me deeply. I would go anywhere to hear her perform live.
The difference between the two for me is I get emotional and almost teary eyed with Sydnie.
I also bet Sydnie will sell out her shows faster because of how she connects with her audience
I am 61 years old. I sang when i was in my late teens and early 20s. I joined the army and after 21 years, i retired. After that leagth of time in the military, the teenager and 20 year old singing voice i had was long gone.
I still try and "carry a tune" but its not like my younger voice.
But when i have and still can recognize a great singer.
Yes, Loren's voice is curvy and polished.
Her ability to continue to flow through the words of a song with one breath, is amazing and talented. Also, I can obviously tell she is comfortable singing.
I can tell she has worked and practiced diligently on her craft.
I mean, when the leading actress in the Greatest Showman state that Loren should sing the track in the movie and she would lip sing. I have to know, that that actress recognized Loren's amazing singing voice.
Loren was on contract not to sing until a number of years had past after the release of the Greatest Showman.
When she appeared on BGT, this was her time to begin her career in song.
The way Syndie sings. Her voice inflections, gliding thru the notes, and breaking up of words in the sond, draws me in and i'm anxiouly waiting for the next word that comes from her vocals.
Her soft and high register of words are vocally clear to me.
Her soft, almost whispery, vocals are mystical and mesmerizing. Drawing me in.
Her high register and power are magestcally soothing.
When she sings, i can hear the emotion she has with the song.
To me, that is what I iove about any singer, the emotion they present is what makes me feel their singing.
And isn't that what a singer is supposed to do, Make us feel.
I'm an eclectic consumer of music, but when a singer sings and makes me feel the song being sung, i listen to that singer.
So, yes, both Loren and Sydnie are beautiful singers with their own dynamics to singing.
They are both confident singers.
I just prefer Sydnie's dynamics of singing, along with the way she relates to people. Funny, humorous, making me feel comfortable. But, for me, when she sings, i can hear that she's all in, heart, mind, and soul. So set back and enjoy the sounds of her singing.
God bless
Enjoyed your video. A couple of quick thoughts…
Loren’s version of over the rainbow was actually used on Sydnie’s original audition video clip - little bit of unintentional foreshadowing.
Sydnie shared on ‘This Morning’ (video clip on CZcams) after she had won BGT that she only had 3 days after the semi-final to choose a song for the final. She hadn’t thought about that as so much effort had gone into her version of My Way. Over the rainbow was suggested to her by the vocal coach for the show but she didn’t want to sing it as it was Loren’s song and she loved that version and didn’t want to copy it. Sydnie’s a fan of Loren. She was convinced to do it and Loren sent her a message wishing her good luck and giving her blessing to do the song.
I’ve played both versions simultaneously to see the little differences and it’s clear that it’s the exact same backing track being used.
I think Loren’s version is more polished, but Sydnie’s version feels more emotional to me so that’s my favourite. Not bad for only having 3 days to get it mastered ready for the final.
Yes great update, Sydnie may not have been feeling well the three days, but have not heard her speak of it so take the salt. On one review of the two songs I understand why I like Sydnie over Loren's, and you stated it too, one is more emotional the other she was concentrationing on the next note.
Interesting... thanks for sharing!
Wow...excellent comments in your evaluation & the section...in my humble opinion. Yes, Sydney's personality is adorably ' transparent '..lol. watched Loren sing this In a studio. Style aside, I sense Sydney has a somewhat bigger gun..lol...lil richer, bigger, rangier clarity of belt...again, age & style aside. Sydney protested singing this I understand, as Loren is her idol. 3 days,All their efforts were put into ' my way'...lol. Thank you for your review. RRH
I thought the best performance ever was Never enough by Lauren. Then Sydnie came and I’m telling you… she is by far the best singer ever. And honestly it isn’t close. Lauren is Amazing !! But wow. Sydnie makes you emotional when you listen to her. There is something about her that will change the world of music. I don’t care about technicalities unless it was obvious. Breaking the song down like this changes the emotional value. Lauren may be more technical but I don’t listen to music for that reason. I want to replay it over and over. I want to feel something. Sydnie does that WAY BEYOND anyone ever has to me.
Christmas different level
Loren is really fantastic, but she did not touch me emotionally...and it sounds like in the 80 ies with Mariah Carey...I like much more the strong, clean and very emotionaly style from Sydnie!! She touches us - and that is what a singer should do ❤
Music is meant to make you feel something. Judging by that alone Sydnie is the clear winner.
Loren’s version didn’t effect me the same way. I listened to it then thought that it was very well done. With Sydnie’s version I have listened too at least a dozen times. It just connects more emotionally. You can see it in her eyes that the song has special meaning to her. I don’t feel the same that with Loren’s version.
Yes, technique doesn't matter much when compared with feeling. Songs are meant to be evocative and singers are meant to make us feel.
When I watch Sydnie’s performances I get spontaneous dynamic goosebumps swirling and moving over 30% of the surface of my body like some strange mystical aurora borealis-esque energy that I cannot explain and for the record I am completely sober. But the stranger part is that I have watched it several times and this happens in varying degrees pretty much every time.
When I watch Loren’s version I feel normal.
I have no clue what this means. The other thing… after watching Sydnie’s 3 performances, I go back and watch previous favourite performances from various past talent show contestants and now their performances feel oddly dull or flat to me. Then I go back and re-watch one of the three Sydnie songs and it’s all tingles dancing over my body, all over again.
I mean… what the heck? To become so smitten by an artistic performance is a rare, unique, and unusual experience… but I suspect that there must be many people also experiencing their version of this reaction to Ms. Christmas’ vocal art.
Cheers everyone!
Yup. We don't listen to music for technical reasons; we listen for our hearts.
Same here! Lauren is technically wonderful but Sydnie makes me emotional. She has more dramatic effect that moves me which is why I listen to music
100% agree with you! I have NEVER rewatched a performance time and again and been affected by it the same way as first view (or even more so). There is something ethereal and magical about Sydnies’ performances and persona that defies explanation.
There’s millions of us feeling the same way!
@@adamkohalmi7180 same here!!.Sydnei’s songs reverberate at my place non stop! Just don’t get tired listening to her!! I feel like I’m in a very tranquil place whenever I hear her singing!
Loren sings, Sydnie reaches
Wow, that's a great way of saying it 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
@@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach sydnei connects from within, Loren from a distance!
I feel Loren is the more polished singer. But I think Sydney has more raw talent and sings with more emotion. Both are incredible. It’s really a matter of personal preference but I enjoyed Sydney’s version a bit more.
Yep, seems like that's how most people feel 😊
@@JohanBesterYourVocalCoach including millions of us!!!
Loren may be the better singer, but Sydnie is far and away the better performer. You could actually feel her emotions as she sang to the audience!
Considering Sydney was recovering from an infection, she did amazingly well. Judging from her emotional facial expression at the end, I think she was not happy with a few mistakes she knew she made like the missed word and the three breaths. But her performance was so good, the audience did not notice or did not care. IMHO
Yep, she connects with people! Thanks for your comment 😊
That facial expression at the end, Was her Vocal coach whispering into her ear " You nailed it Girl "
IMO that is a rumor being spread now. I watched her interviews..there were only 3 days between semi and finals..haven't heard her say anything about a virus
Sydnie's version is more touching and dramatic for me, therefore I'm more on her.
Thanks for sharing 😊
I absolutely agree! Loren is a technical singer and she lacks the warmth.
That’s not fair. Loren gave me a lot of warmth and feelings as well. Maybe Sydni gives you more but that doesn’t mean Loren doesn’t give those things as well.
With Sydnie I think that she has a warmer tone.
@@Rosannasfriend well, basically this is my own opinion. You dont have to follow or agree with my personal opinion. It is good to have your own and surely I respect yours.
Hi Johan, I so appreciate your candor and expertise. As a vocalist myself, I love both performances. It seems this song is like an ‘old friend’ to Loren, that she truly has it in her bones. She delivers it expertly and flawlessly. Her pitch is always right in the center - fantastic. Modulation is very exciting. Sydnie’s performance sounds a bit more ‘spontaneous’, though I suspect every note was crafted long before delivery. It is perhaps more ‘fresh’ and emotive, and not as flawless. I was moved by both perfomances for different reasons. There’s always room for excellence at the top. Thank you. I’ve never been inspired to offer an opinion before. I always look forward to your analyses.
Julie Ann Caselli
To be candid, I have watched all 3 of Sydnie's performances numerous times and have an understanding of what she is capable of, while this is the only viewing that I have of Loren. FYI, in an interview, Sydnie said that the producers suggested this song AND this arrangement for her third performance! She was hesitant because it had been done, and done so well by Loren, whom she admires. I like Sydnie's performance better for many of the reasons others have stated, but a big part is the tonal color variations that she has. She goes from soft and round to loud and open in a heartbeat. Yes, more suited for musical theater than maybe the concert stage, but that is what grabs my attention, what moves me and touches me emotionally. Loren tends to have that perfect pitch, perfect tone, measured dynamics, etc., which is fantastic, but Sydnie reaches out in such a way that I feel that she is feeling those words and emotions, and because she feels them, so do I. In other words, she seems connected, so, so do I. While Loren hits these long notes in one breath, Sydnie tends to push more power with such clarity.
Sydnie version of the song to me is far more emotional as it brings tears to your eyes, where i don't find Lauren's version as moving. It might be that it just feels like it's another standard experienced professional performance. ALL 3 of sydnie's performances were incredibly moving. Kev from England. 🏴
Before I comment I have to say I do not know anything about technicalities of singing. So my comment is simple, how their voices make me feel. I love both singers, I watched both at their competitions (tv presentation). Sidney felt more down to earth while Loren was more staged.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts 🙋🏻♂️
Sydnei by miles away!!!
I agree with most. I loved Sydnie’s emotional, theatrical connection with the heart. Both have unique vocal cords; excellently done. I also loved Sydnie’s charisma and Loren’s professional attitude. I hope neither change their personality.
For me there is a difference between singing and performing,and what will I be willing to pay for. Lauren doesn't sell. Sydney is GREAT!
Singing is not just about singing technique. I'm sure you would be really great as a hearing aid acoustician, however, if someone is not able to "hear" with his heart, how can he be a vocal coach? There's absolutely no doubt that also Loren is a fantastic singer, but she's much more experienced than Sydnie. And the most important thing that you neglect, is the fact that Sydnie has won over millions of people with her personality, her emotional approach to singing these songs. Some of the commenters below rightfully stated, that she "touched their hearts"... Does this in no way influence your judgement? Alisha Dixon correctly stated that it's the job of a singer "to make us feel something"...
Being a powerful singer myself I prefer the raw power of Sydney. She was also a bit more creative with notes in her version than was Lauren. When I first heard Lauren I was thrilled with her ability. Both are incredible singers.
My take on Sydney is that she provides exceptionally appealing authenticity, informality,and stage presence aiding connection with the audience, as well as exceptional power and technique. Alfred, in contrast, is very proficient and lovely.
I don't really care who done it best, it's not a competition each performer is unique in their own way and music is about preferences. Different people prefer different artist so neither out performed one another.
There's no comparison between the sun and the moon.
They shine when it's they're time ❤✨ Loren, it's never enough to describe how fantabulous you're 🤩 Sydnie you'll never stop being a beautiful rainbow and how magnificent you're 😍
Sometimes we've to put ourselves in their shoes and see if we can even try to do that this two beautiful ladies give to us. I can't compare the two coz it's like choosing between the heart and lungs. And no one can live without either both of the organs
I'd like to put in a bit of context. The arrangement has been made, tailored, for Loren. You can listen to her discographic version of this song on her channel where you can see the musicians playing for her. And the result is even better than this AGT performance. Loren sings as a perfectionist, so I agree that technically her version is better.
Sydnie declared that she received the task of performing this very arrangement by BGT and she waited for Loren's approval (!) before accepting it.
She said that she worked on tailoring My Way on her vocal capacity and she worked for Over the Rainbow in a very short time, compared to her semifinal.
And yet.
And yet emotionally what I get from Sydnie is really much more than from any other singer at the moment. I cannot really explain why, but I'd go for how her soul communicates with mine.
So my preference goes to her.
Now a detail.
In phrasing "somewhere" immediately after the key change "some" is perfectly audible in Sydnie's version (so I disagree with you) while "where" is cleaner in Loren's version (but it's not perfect even for her).
Thanks for sharing your thoughts - we appreciate it 🤗
I felt Sydnie was battling with nervousness, which made her performance more heroic - so I was more emotionally affected.
Sydnie made it clear she was singing Loren’s arrangement.
I’m not the biggest fan of Loren’s use of the breathy sound. I also liked Sydnie’s ending better than Loren’s.
Both are amazing. Thanks so much for this side by side comparison.
A couple of observations on who sang it better (“Somewhere over the rainbow”) Sydnie Christmas or Loren Allred?
First, they have both given stunning, beautiful performances of an extremely familiar song. They both did a tremendous job and preferences are very subjective.
Loren Allred
On AGT’s Fantasy League, Loren sang a near flawless cover of “Somewhere.” However, her history on talent shows was much was different from Sydnie’s. Loren was already an extremely accomplished professional singer who announced to the 2022 BGT judges and audience during her audition that she was the actual voice of “Never Enough.” Therefore, the BGT judges (including Simon) appeared gob smacked that she was now going to perform “Never Enough” for the judges and come out of the shadows. Allred presented herself, elegantly dressed, but as somewhat fragile and uncertain about stepping into the limelight.
Sydnie Christmas
In comparison, on 2024 BGT, Sydnie sort of bounces onto the stage for her first audition. Her personality is already infectious. She engages with the judges and audience, but her off-the street clothing and self-deprecating humor did not signal a successful audition. In fact, considering the tremendous expectation Simon Cowell and the BGT judges had for hearing Allred sing “one of the biggest songs of all time,” the context for Loren’s audition was completely different from that faced by Sydnie. Yes, it was later revealed that Sydnie had previous experience singing musical gigs, but Sydnie completely lowered expectations by announcing she was going to sing a song she hadn’t sung since she was four years old. Ha! And then to announce that she was going to sing “Tomorrow,” from Annie, only to have Simon hold his head, roll his eyes, and be told that it was Simon’s least favorite song. You’re 28 years old and have just been told that the chief judge absolutely hates your song choice before you’ve even started. Well, no pressure there.
Buuuuuut. We’re never told who arranged this version of “Tomorrow,” or whether Sydnie had previously performed this version, elsewhere. At least no video clips have so far surfaced. Obviously, this was NOT the version of “Tomorrow” Sydnie sang as a four-year old! This was a carefully crafted one-of-a-kind arrangement and performance well thought out with a bit of jazzy-blues insertions and bended flats you would never hear from a four-year old (or a 10-year-old Annie). Another curious thing about this BGT presentation is the way BGT cut and presented Sydnie’s golden buzzer performance. Curious that after her rendition, and as part of Sydnie’s golden buzzer moment, “Somewhere over the rainbow” played out, with dramatic swells and diminishments all the way to Sydnie exiting to greet her family to the final words of “why, oh, why, can’t I?” There were some comments that these “Somewhere” vocals were her own from the BGT finals, but could they have been (ironically) Loren Allred’s version? Still, BGT took a lot of care and thought into post-editing Sydnie’s audition and golden buzzer performance.
Again, as has been revealed, Sydnie Christmas did not just walk out on the BGT stage and dredge up by memory a song she had last sung when she was four years old. But, after the accolades and golden buzzer confetti, as she walks off the stage she sticks her right hand in her pants pocket. Now who does that? Calculated? You tell me. Perhaps it was an extremely effective way of lowering expectations and going back to an oh, shucks, persona.
“Somewhere, over the rainbow”
As has been noted, both Sydnie and Loren sang the same song, same version, in the same key. Who sang it better? A few observations.
Loren’s version was perhaps more technically pure. For music critics this is sometimes the music measurement: How close does a singer get to the standard (or altered standard)? Loren’s version is bright and precise.
Sydnie, who clearly put her own stamp on “Tomorrow” and “My Way”, sang a “Somewhere” version that was a bit more raw, a few more bends and tweaks used. A few pre-BGT videos of Sydnie’s singings have popped up. While good, they do not foreshadow the control or incredible belting capability of her voice, especially in the BGT final. During her time on BGT, Sydnie disclosed that she worked hard with a BGT vocal coach. Especially, after choosing to do Loren’s version of “Somewhere.” All to say, that Loren already had years of exquisite singing under her “belt” (pun intended), but seemingly lacked confidence to go solo. Sydnie, at 28, had some catching up to do and apparently was successful enough that she announced that she would use at least some of her BGT winnings to continue paying the BGT vocal coach. In other words, Loren already had the chops to effortlessly deliver “Somewhere,” while Sydnie had to work to get there.
A couple of other subjective things. Sydnie has a great lower range. You could hear that immediately when at the BGT audition she was asked if being a front at a gym was what she wanted to do, she laughed and then gave this low lyrical “Nooooo.” She went with a few low lyrical swells in “Tomorrow” as well. While both singers have incredible high ranges, Sydnie’s lower range was very impressive. Loren’s diction was impeccable. Perhaps due to nerves, Sydnie’s diction occasionally became a bit mudded.
And both singers could take in enormous breaths of air, without being obvious about it. When watching a Stevie Nicks video, Nicks will stand at the mic with her legs very far apart as if she needs her legs to help her do her belting. Loren and Sydnie both are able to stand straight in front of the mic with their feet together pointing straight ahead. Loren has a bit more leg separation, but it is amazing that Sydnie in particular can ground herself on stage so effortlessly with all that belting coming from her core with her feet so close together.
Finally, it would have been nice to have given Israel Kamakawiwo'ole credit for writing and singing this version of “Somewhere.”
And, perhaps someone can inquire who wrote the version of "Tomorrow" that Sydnie sang. Brilliant and someone needs to be given credit!
I liked Sydnie's version more because I heard more of HER in it. It felt like she was communicating with us what is inside of her and the movements in her soul.
While Vocal Coaches pour over the styling of Somewhere Over The Rainbow or Over The Rainbow as it is also known, I want to acknowledge the men who wrote the iconic song. Composer Harold Arlen and Lyricist Yip Harburg composed Over The Rainbow for the film The Wizard of Oz. Its just a songwriter, composer, lyricist thing of mine. Credit where credit is due.
I agree with your summary, I however would favor Sydney purely because of her natural stage presence. You described it as “raw” and I would explain Lauren as “finessed”. But again, wow!!!! Great singers both. Thanks for a super interesting channel 👊
To partially answer my own question below, the version of "Tomorrow" that Sydnie sang in her golden buzzer audition was performed back in 2020 at a ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE, by Marisha Wallace (search CZcams for the video). Still doesn't identify who was the original arranger, but clarifies that this version has been around for a couple of years.
Loren is actually Sydnie's idle and when it was suggested that she sing Loren's version of the song she hesitated, thinking she couldn't do it justice. Loren was contacted and actually sent Sydnie a video encouraging her to sing it. Glad she did.
Thanks for this excellent video. It answered a question I that was bugging me when I was watching the "road to winning" video on YT. After Sydnie gets the golden buzzer in the audition, BGT plays "Over the Rainbow" through the montage of her celebration and meeting her family. When I heard it was her finale song I wondered if the whole thing was "pre-recorded" but if they used Lauren's version from AGT, which occurred prior, then that makes sense.
Bear in mind that Sydnie had only 3 days to learn and rehearse this arrangement which bgt ie Simon suggested she sang, as they already had the music on file.
technique wise loren is far more professional and she is my favorite singer as well, but I cant deny the fact that sydnie feels different when she sang it, I didn't feel it the way loren sing it. I feel like im about to cry but i can't... that feeling.
The best version of My Way for me is sung by Tom Jones in his prime. And until now I didn't think it could be bettered. But Syd nailed it to the wall both in power and emotion. She's a huge star in the making with the right guidance. I haven't been moved by a singer like that in a long time. ❤
good efforts so that we as normal layman able to value each song arrangement
Lauren is a professional high level singer with incredible talent. I see her as one that is given sheet music and given small room for embellishment. Flawless pitch and pop inspired flare.
Sydnie was/is more of a stage performer where she had to be solid as well, but was given more room for individuality. She is not perfect, can be spot on when she wants to be.
Loren’s transitions are smoother. But Syndnies are raw which i prefer.
Great review! I agree, both performances were amazing. But in their own way of course. In that first part with Loren I have to disagree that it was in one breath. Though, I'm not the professional here. 🙂 I feel that Loren's transition into each lyric is a bit on the smoother side between the breaths that she takes. This really shows off her control in her voice as she sings. However, I feel Loren in her body language was a bit on the stiffer side. Syndie, I believe, is much more theatrical in her motions and seems to be able to really compliment that through her voice very very nicely. I feel that Syndie has a much more powerful voice all around. For me, it doesn't really matter whether or not each performer can or cannot sing different lyrics in one breath. I base each performance on how it MOVED me in my heart. Syndie to me pulled this off masterfully! Therefore, my vote goes to Syndie. Again, thank you for your detailed analysis. I've learned a lot out of comparison video.
Agree with your analysis.
Technically- Loren, Soulfully- Sydnie
Both amazing singers! let’s not compare them because each singer is special somehow and has something to offer. I like both versions, but Loren a little more! BUT that doesn’t take away a bit of the greatness of Sydney’s performance
Thanks for doing this!
Loren has an amazing voice, but her singing has always sounded a bit robotic to me --- she will sing a song 10 times, and each will be exactly the same. The emotions she tries to convey seem rehearsed and a bit affected. Sydnie seems to channel emotions more naturally; her performances are more raw. The timbre of Sydnie's voice -- the way it sounds -- is also much prettier, in my view; more rounded, warmer, and unique.
Yes, robotic is a great descriptor. I agree; Loren lacks warmth and authenticity. Sydnie has warmth, depth of emotion and she puts her heart out there for us all to touch. This is why Loren is still in the background, despite industry (David Foster) support.
She is more musical theater, of course that’s why the emotions are more obvious. And as for Loren, not being more famous, that’s because the type of singer she is hasn’t been successful in more than two decades. She should’ve been around during the era of the big divas in the 90s.
@@Rosannasfriend I didn't mean to imply, by the way, that Loren isn't amazing -- she is truly a spectacular singer. I just feel a better connection with Sydnie.
For me, Loren’s version is heard, whereas Sydnie’s is heard and felt. 🥲
Funny how I thought about Loren being more polished myself I actually would chalk that up to her career up until now where she was the vocal lead for others to follow ty for this breakdown I'd never even considered this before ty again
Thanks for your feedback 😊
An FYI. Sydnie commented about her performance on a morning show after her win. She only had three days to prepare for her final performance. It was suggested to her to do Lorens version of Over the Rainbow. Sydnie did not want to do the song, as Loren is her idol. Well, Loren sent Sydnie a video chat, suggesting that she should perform her version. Sydnie agreed and her BGT coach went to work working the song a bit for Sydnie to put her touch on the song. Sydnie gave her BGT coach raving reviews, referring that the BGT coach helped her more than the three years she spent at college. Johan, I thought that was a cool way you presented both, Loren and Sydnie for their performances. I loved Lorens word annunciation which was flawless. She has a lung capacity and control that is magical. Her voice definitely has that golden flair throughout her performance. I loved Sydnie's performance also, seeing she only had 3 days to prepare. Some of her vocals were not clear to me. I think she has the lung capacity, but her control was a little bit off by the breaks in some spots. If I was to compare performance in my limited understanding of the science of music to say champagne. Loren's performance was equal to the quality of a $10,000 bottle of bubbly, and Sydnie's was at an $8,000 bottle. Johan, thanks for all your educational tips! On edit, I did pick Sydnie to win, BGT, into the first verse of her Tomorrow! I come here because Johan helps my understanding of the concepts of " BECAUSE", and the whys someone is great or poor!
Hi everyone, in fact if you search on CZcams, there is an interview with Sidney who states that Loren helped her perform the song, therefore it is the same song, personally I am fascinated by both, as Loren lives in New York, therefore his English and more American, ringing, Sidney being English and softer and warmer in the language, but they are at a stellar level, together with Dimash I think they are the best of recent years.
This version was produced and arranged by loren , simon and his team , for AGT , Sydney although not as polished sings from the heart , hopefully she gets a fantastic vocal coach and the team to improve her singing techniques, but not change her too much .
Both were great versions of over the rainbow. Loren aldred is her idol. Loren gave her permission to sing her version. BGT vocal coach changed it enough to make it her own in away. Another stunning performance by Sydnie. It's in an interview she did. As you said it depends on what you like. Both versions are amazing to me not one is better in than the other.
Sydnie is more if a Broadway big theatre stage performance were Lorens was more of a can't think of the word but different. These two amazing women hopefully this opens the door for Sydnie now and no more part time theatre stage shows.
Has anyone checked whether one or both or neither shows applied pitch correction? Just wondering because I also watch wings of Pegasus channel and understand many tvshows use it standard ( even on singers who don't need it)
Maybe the difference is best described by English culture in popular music v American? I definitely prefer Sydnie exactly because it is less "polished style"..because it is a more emotional performance. It is for the same reason I, on the classical violin, vastly prefer Anne-Sophie Mutter over Hilary Hahn or Janine Jansen. Why I prefer Cecilia Bartoli over singers supposedly singing bel canto more "correct'
After listening to both...Loren's version and the way she sang it seemed more for a record label. as for Sydnie and the way she sang it is more for theater. If that makes sense. Both are fantastic, but To me Sydnie's voice seems more powerful and gave me chills just listening to her voice more than Loren did.
I don’t think her voice is more powerful, but is definitely a bit rounder and richer, has a lot to do with the vowels that she chooses, even though they both use round vowels, I think that Sydnie places her voice lower as well
I agree I think Sydnie has a more powerful voice. Conveys more emotion too. No doubt Lorin is amazing though
I listen to Loren's version of Over the Rainbow, and I like best. Then I listen to Sydnie's version and hers is the best. For me the bottom line is, they both have incredible voices and both versions are great. Loren's is more polished and Sydnie's is more powerful. I would love to see them do a duet. How awesome would that be
I like your evaluation of these 2 ladies, you and I used the word sophisticated to describe Loren's style of singing. Somehow my description of loud and full to describe Sidney's style is close to your "raw"
I heard in an interview with Sydnie that she idolozes Lauren. Knowing that the arrangement makes a lot of sense to me. Some of the differences are an effort to make it hers not a cover of Lauren's.
Sydnie had 3 days to learn to perform the song her coach contacted Loren and she gave permission and encouraged Sydnie to use the arrangement
If you want to hear Never Enough by a singer you probably have never heard of but who blows Loren out of the water - listen to Morissette Amon from the Philippines on the Wish Bus (the Asian Phoenix) ... she is sitting down and she sings with no embellishment or auto tune (she is able to sing in whistle tone - Akin Ka Na Lang). Both of these ladies have lovely voices but Sydnie blows Loren out of the water on the "emotional connection" scale.
To me My Way was Sydnies best. That was her arrangement.
Both destroy me with this crazy versions. Love it❤
Isn't it amazing that both singers won BGT singing the same song, it does make it sound kind of planned by the producers, however, for me, the difference is Sidney brought great emotion and on top of that is a great personality. Don't get me wrong, Loren is a great singer which she proved with "Never Enough." Loren also stated that she made the decision to enter because she wanted to come out from behind the scenes, and yet in 2012, she appeared on "The Voice" in America, it was after that she got the gig on "The Greatest Showman." For the judges to act surprised that they were not aware of The Greatest Showman was another act, that being said, it was a combination of a great voice and personality that brought Sidney to the top of the game, and on this song, Sidney was at the top of her game, her overall belts were better than Loren and her high notes clearer and better which gives her the thumbs up.
Loren didn’t win BGT. Sydnie is the first solo performer without a dog to actually win 💕
lol. After watching this. Lauren May sung it technically better based on you breaking it down note for note. I would walk 50 miles in a snow storm and wait in line for 3 days to goto a Sydnie concert. I would drive to the arena and wait a few hours for Lauren. And mind you… I have been to maybe 2 concerts in my 55 years.
Found you by accident, but have subscribed. Enjoyed the video and how you explained everything. I liked both Sydnie and Loren, but I think I preferred Loren a little more
too. She's a bit older than Sydnie and so I think maybe it's because she has more experience she presented the song better, would that be right? More finished? Either
way I'd happily listen to either. I was though a little disappointed that Sydnie did sing the same as Loren for the final, maybe would have liked to have heard something
different as soon as the music started for her to sing, my first thought was it's the same as Loren sang. Maybe it was suggested to her?
She only had 3 days between the semifinals and the finals, and yes, BGT suggested she sing it as the backing track was already available.
Hi...Sydnie was to pick 3rd song in 3 days for final. She was not entirely in favour of the Rainbow but BGT coach persuaded. She then did her best via Loren (good for her) but Loren had plenty of time based on her earlier personal decision. I wish Sydnie had picked her own. Wasn't my favourite for her. But well done, none the less. Ciao
Well if you want to hear someone hold a note.. try Barbra Streisand 23 seconds at the end of Yental…THE BEST
Hello! I had listened to both performances before listening to your critique today. I had come to the same conclusion that I enjoyed Loren allred's version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow more than Sydney christmases. This is because I found Loren allred's version simply more beautiful. it flowed very beautifully,, and yet there was great power in the way she sang. Lauren also had nothing that I could hear off-pitch anywhere. Sidney Christmas two Off Pitch areas, that I could hear, and that really makes me cringe when I hear anything off pitch. I liked Lauren's intro to the song better, and Cindy Christmases last note better; the word me. I think what made Cindy Christmas win was not only her great singing but also her way of connecting with the audience.
Well... It's so hard to compare the two. As both are superb in their own ways. We should just accept both of them are a fantastic singer / performer. There is no one who is better than the other. Hence, we just relax and enjoy their performance. Period.
I appreciate and admire both artists! However, I truly would pick Sydnie... why? She presented herself as a "down-to-earth", genuine, person throughout ALL her performances. Each artist is at the top of their respective "games". I would LOVE to see (hear) both of them perform together. I think their different styles would complement each other... and give their audience a spectacular experience!
Love them both
They're both talented...I favored Sydnie she's unique in her own style of singing..
I think both are awesome of course...I agree with that the breath control skill of Loren is a Little bit better....On the other hand, in my opinion, Sydnie's voice Is more metallic, more poweful and has an exquisit, rare texture.
Both are Superstars!!!
Loren is much more "experienced" than Sydnie that just begins...
The Magic of Sidney is to carry us into her songs with her... we become in fusion with the song and her. She has the charisma that subdues you, be it when signing or just on stage presence.
Loren is the epitome of felinity, Sydnie has a little bit more "fire" into her personality. Her sensitivity goes into the extremes from strength/power to delicate like the skin of a new born. She is full of joy of life,, she bites into it full mouth. She is a "young performer" and a young women, I am eager to see into what she will "bloom! ...
Loren is more a mature women that is settled that is in full bloom. But both are AMAZING!!!
If I may dare a symbolic analogy: One would be "The Virgin Mary", the other would be "The Holy Mary"
The song arrangement is indeed the same, maybe Loren ever showed it to Sydney, i don't know, but is it true that the two should be compared, who sing it better? It's something that just needs to be heard, absorbed by each person, something that in my opinion cannot be compared. It's a gift from God, we only listen to what we like or suit us, but we never judge or say who sings better..
sydnie hypnotises me. I think most will agree.
For me it’s definitely Loren. Sydnie has an amazing voice but with Loren I understood all the words and her performance gave me more emotion
Who gives a shit who sang it best.Leave it alone, they both did great.
Sydnie does something with 8:20 her vowels sounds kinda like Julie Garland. Her voice has personality
Both great, but Loren's technical voice quality was definitely more professionally pure...
All technical differences aside, Loren’s version made me sigh - but Sydnie’s made me cry! 🥲And that made all the difference.
Sydnie’s version was a bit more unpredictable in terms of her interpretation of the song which made me want to listen more closely and her tone clearer in general.
I had commented this before elsewhere, Loren style is sophisticated, so refined yet you can hear every word . Sidney has a fuller louder voice, but not able to hold her breath unlike Loren . Sidney is for broadway style of singing . I don't mind watching her show if she comes to the US. I'm going to see Loren's show 3X in a row between June and August
Both versions are good, but Loren's is the one for me. I just respond more to Loren's vocal and her performance style. She has one of the most beautiful vocal tones and astonishing breath control, and that's not to mention her incredible range and belting technique. Just so unbelievably gifted. I actually preferred Sydnie's performance of My Way to her Over The Rainbow.
With the greatest respect I am going to tell you something. You may know a lot from the technical point of view of music, however you are just one person in comparison to millions in the world who are not in the world of music technique but who in the end are the ones who approve the result of a presentation as incredible as Sydnie's. I have never seen so much success and comments on CZcams as Sydnie has had. So your evaluation can be accepted, but it's not about you, remember that. Less egocentric would be better.😏
Sydnie for me
I love Loren's version better. I think Sydnie did a personal version of Loren who sang it like that first....loren is less choppy. Imo
Love them both, but still have to hand it to Lauren. Her vocal prowess is stunning. I wish BGT had given Sydnie a different song altogether. I know it wasn't her doing, but seemed like a cop out.
The song was suggested to Sydnie by BGT and she contacted Loren to see if it was Ok with her.
Very professional! Great respect to Loren!
Sydnie nailed it.
*Sydnie did not want to do the song because she saw Loren do it & loves her.....but it was Loren herself that video messaged her to do it. And this is what we got.* (Btw, both are golden buzzer girls of the same judge on BGT.)
I Love Sydnie but on a couple of phases couldn't clearly hear the word & on the last note thought she had already sung "i" ?? whereas Lorens version you could hear every "T" pronounced, but emotionally & how it moved me my fave was Sydnie " A Diamond in the Rough !"
I prefer Loren's version. She seems to possess the better breath control and I appreciate her clearer enunciation of the words/lyrics.
Sydnie, didn't want to sing that song in the final, it was the production team that pushed her to sing it. Loren is her hero.