Whether it’s in operatic purity or in deliberate crossover artists, there are so many factors … for example with this chap who’ll again sing O Holy Night closer to Christmas:

“Juan Diego Flórez is a highly acclaimed Peruvian tenor, often described as one of the greatest of his generation, known for his phenomenal vocal agility, rock-steady high notes (especially in Rossini), infectious charisma, and stunning technique, though critics note his evolution from pure acrobatics to deeper musicality and a growing repertoire. Reviews praise his thrilling high Cs, clear tone, and charm, even as he expands from tenore leggero roles to heavier parts like Puccini’s La Bohème, earning him legions of fans and numerous awards.”

Key Strengths & Acclaim:

• Vocal Technique: Praised for incredible agility, phenomenal breath control, and ringing, clear high notes, particularly in bel canto roles.
• Performance Style: Inspires huge audiences with his energy, charisma, and engaging stage presence, transitioning from technical showpieces to more emotive performances.
• Evolution: Has successfully matured, expanding his repertoire beyond his early Rossini specialty to include more dramatic and Romantic roles, adding depth to his artistry.
• Fan Reception: Commands devoted followings, with audiences thrilled by his vocal fireworks (like high Cs) and engaging personality. 

A sad contender for the “overrated” award might be Sarah Brightman … I’ve just been reading about her, from her vocal limitations to her attitude on stage or in private life as a self-styled diva … but the major criticisms are three … her vocalisation, her narcissism as a result of Brit luvvy worship, her messy life.

“Sarah Brightman faces criticism primarily for inconsistent acting, sometimes perceived as wooden or superficial, especially in musical theatre roles like Sunset Boulevard, despite her powerful, multi-octave voice being praised by many. Critics often note a gap between her vocal talent and dramatic delivery, with some finding her musical style (“popera”) overly polished or “precious,” though others enjoy her unique fusion of classical and pop.”

“The trouble with Sarah B isn’t so much her voice — lots of pop singers really don’t sing all that well — but the irredeemable cheesiness of her music and her stage shows. From what I’ve heard of her music, it’s hollow and bombastic, with little real feeling to it; in a previous thread, someone compared her to John Tesh, and that’s spot-on.”

“And, yes, her speaking voice is rather girlish and she’s become increasingly flamboyant. It’s pretty self-evident that Sarah Brightman is flamboyant because flamboyance lands prime media spots, gets people talking, and sells CDs and $150 concert tickets. Talent takes you only so far. Clever packaging does the rest.”

I read an opera page which really picked apart her mouth position through to various notes she mishandled etc. It’s possibly an unjustified criticism that she’s the diva equivalent of the Andre Rieu show. What did come through is that so many detest her style and voice, whereas mainly Brits gallantly defend “our Sarah”.

The reason for this post, dropping what I did have prepared is that I glanced at the political items here awaiting posting and there’s a flood of fab females pictured … it would have been overkill to run the three reaction videos I had around the same song.

Song was You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling (1964)

“The Righteous Brothers consistently receive extremely high ratings, with fans giving albums like Unchained Melody 4.5 to 5 stars on retail sites, praising their timeless harmonies, powerful vocals (especially Bobby Hatfield’s), and emotional depth. They are critically acclaimed, inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and lauded by critics for their unique blend of soul, pop, and R&B, making them a legendary duo with enduring appeal.”

What I had were three reactors, all female, two maybe late Millennial early Gen Zee, honeys in every way … plus an Indian origin kid of 17 by way of contrast. The two older ones swooned within seconds … the kid was praising the voices but did not fully understand she was also swooning. The older ones had to stop, could not continue, came back later.

Quite interesting for a male but as I say … maybe a bit too much femme overkill for one day.