Reality singing shows are a scam.
The conversation usually goes something like, "OMG Ruva you can really sing, you should go on the voice!" Now I KNOW all the pro singers can relate to this well-meaning piece of advice from well-meaning muggles (non-entertainment personnel lol).
But the truth is these reality contests are not the launchpads into the professional singing careers they used to be, and that's just facts baby.
| REWIND The year was 2003, and I was furiously texting the word 'PAULINI' to whatever the number on the screen was. She was my queen! She didn't win and I was devastated. Still, her Chart Topping debut PLATINUM album 'One Determined Heart" was the inspiration and confidence I needed to audition for the Xfactor in the coming years.
FAST FORWARD 2013 and a naive "Riv" (yep, that was the nickname bestowed upon me in primary school to make life easier *gags*) auditioned for the Xfactor with stars in her eyes and hopeful dreams. At age 20, I was a vocalist winning jazz awards and playing gigs around Melbourne, but I wanted more and Xfactor would give me that. I lined up and waited for HOURS (they do that on purpose, wearing you down so you're more likely to have a breakdown on stage for the cameras) and finally sang If I Aint Got You by Alicia Keys. I was a hit! |  |
| I met many 18 - 20-something attractive and stylish popstar prototypes in Sydney. After what felt like five days of popstar hunger games 'Riv' made it to the top 24 and was flown to LONDON. My dreams were edging closer! RedFoo was my mentor. That is all on that detail.
Four days in London were spent collecting what would today be "social media content" without really seeing or doing much in London. After a highly staged "workshop" with Redfoo and Will.i.am. ( yes, Redfoo.) I was booted out of the competition and its upcoming live shows. According to Redfoo, I had the voice but not the passion. DEVO! FAST FORWARD 4 years Ruva, with her identity intact (Thank you for reinstating my name Lion king) has two major nationally touring musicals under her belt, has world-class experience as a pro singer and is making real money! So why...why did I accept the invite for another spin on the Merry-go-round. I had yet to learn my lesson the first time and needed another go. I had no business being there. And it became apparent my vocal performances were irrelevant to my progression in the show. After being booted out once again, I remember feeling a bit sticky. Used. I was invited to sing, so I gave them a show, filled the quota they needed (limited space for BIPOCs is standard practice) and then strategically discarded. Without a word or a voice (that contract is hideous) SHOWBIZ BABY
Reality TV is not real, and I would caution vocalists from thinking it is their ticket to success. Your ticket to success will look more like a cocktail of NETWORKING, RESILIENCE, CONSISTENCY, MASTERY OF SKILLS, LUCK AND REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS. Ruva xo |
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