Sure the guy can write a tune. So can 10,000 others. This guy’s voice is one step above the Little Rascals’ Alfalfa - I want to shoot myself to stop the pain when I hear him sing.
So does this guy have nude photos of every big-wig in Hollywood? This is the only reason I can think of that allows him to do so many freakin’ soundtracks.
Obviously it’s a matter of taste. I love Newman’s voice. I also love the voices of Neil Young, Leonard Cohen, and Bob Dylan, none of which are more conventionally “good” than Newman’s.
Newman’s uncle was a movie soundtrack composer, I believe.
Well, let’s see.
He is an excellent pianist with a recognizable style.
He can write witty, ironic lyrics, as well as heartfelt ones without a trace of cheap sentimentality.
He can orchestrate.
He’s a very good pianist.
He knows how to write a soundtrack that complements, rather than overwhelming, the movie.
And I rather like his voice.
Pick up a couple of his classic albums, say “Sail Away” or “Good Ol’ Boys,” and see if you don’t discover something worthwhile.
I’m with you Bwana…
As a vocalist, the guy is one demensional and sounds nasally. He’s a kind of Pied Piper though as he has legions of fans. I still regard him as a “one hit wonder” with “Short-People” which I can listen to, once a decade.
“Red-headed lady, reachin for an apple / Gonna take a bite..uh nope nope... / Shes gonna breath on it foyst / Wipes it on her blouse-eh / She takes a bite, chews it once, twice, three times, four times, stops.”…
Randy Newman is a genius. He has a distinctive style, certainly, but he can write tunes like no one else. And his lyrics are so intelligent and sharp. They’re often styled to sound throw away, or even shocking, but if you follow his intent you can see that he’s being very precise with what he’s saying, and it’s often not what you think he’s saying.
Plus he’s witty. You can listen to some of his songs a number of times before you realise he’s been telling you a joke, but it was so subtle you’ve only just got it. And when I say a joke, I mean a funny joke, that’ll still be funny after hearing it dozens of times.
He’s been doing it for years, decades, if it was all just hype and nepotism he’d have been found out years ago. He is a genius. So, his voice isn’t his strong point. But it’s adequate, nothing wrong with it. Just proves that with a great song can carry a so-so voice.
Well, just to echo what everyone else has said: Randy Newman can write a lyric that is brilliant the first time you hear it, and only gets better. (exception: Masterman and Baby J) And as to his soundtrack work: listen to The Natural, Ragtime and Avalon. He’s done work in the past that puts his current output to shame. Which is not to denigrate what he’s done of late. “When She Loved Me” from Toy Story 2 is heartbreakingly beautiful.
Well I guess I have my answer(s); I guess it’s what I expected; people willing to overlook his one (IMHO glaring) shortcoming because of his other talents.
Bwana, maybe what you’re missing is the point that other people have different taste than yours, and some of us happen to like Randy Newman - his music AND his voice. I think he has a sweet voice - kinda makes me feel like giving him a big hug. If you don’t like it, don’t listen to it. I think he’s pretty darn talented, and I’m looking forward to seeing him at the New Orleans Jazz Festival this year. (yay!)
Never have bought any of his music, but I think he is a talented guy. I particularly appreciate the work he has done on soundtracks. His theme for Monk is a good example, it does a fine job of establishing the tone of the show with both the music and the lyric.