Title: The Thread That Elliott Built
Description: Inspirational posts about Elliott
Description: Inspirational posts about Elliott
mcornelio - June 27, 2006 06:23 AM (GMT)
When I first joined the AI boards back in the old days in the middle of Season 5, one of the threads in the "Elliott Yamin" forum that caught my eye was a very long thread called "The Thread That Elliott Built." The thread was originated by "lothlorien" whom many of you know. I also met "TxRangerette" through this thread and to a large extent it's the friendships that I made there that has drawn me to this site to try to keep the Elliott fires burning.
I spoke to TxRangerette and lothlorien about starting this thread here and they've agreed to recreate that inspirational magic that the thread had on the AI boards. The regular readers of this thread were always on the lookout for inspirational posts throughout the boards that spoke of Elliott. Those posts were then quoted and collected into that one thread for people to read and comment on. I think it brought out the best in people and served as a vehicle for quickly introducing people to the wonders of Elliott.
In a way, the thread was like a contest for writers. To be quoted in "The Thread That Elliott Built" was considered an honor. To be quoted here meant other people validated what you had to say about Elliott. If your posts are ever quoted here, I hope you consider it an honor as well.
Unfortunately, the mods on the AI boards didn't see things our way and the thread which at the time was many thousand posts long vanished into oblivion one day. It was a sad day indeed. Somehow I doubt that the same thing will happen to the thread on this site. :D
I'll always be grateful to lothlorien and TxRangerette and many others who kept the thread alive on the AI boards for so long. It inspired me to write my best. I've asked them to continue the tradition here and they've agreed to do so. I'm hoping to see your best thoughts here as we once again try to grow this into the longest thread on the boards. I'm also going to ask that you make this thread the pride of the ETrain.
Some of these posts may make you laugh. Other may make you, like Paula, cry like a baby. I think it's because they're all written with true love and admiration for the talented and gifted Elliott Yamin.
So look hard to find something to quote here and who knows? We might even turn this into a book.
Thanks Etrain.
Elliott: "You Da Man!"
Mike
I spoke to TxRangerette and lothlorien about starting this thread here and they've agreed to recreate that inspirational magic that the thread had on the AI boards. The regular readers of this thread were always on the lookout for inspirational posts throughout the boards that spoke of Elliott. Those posts were then quoted and collected into that one thread for people to read and comment on. I think it brought out the best in people and served as a vehicle for quickly introducing people to the wonders of Elliott.
In a way, the thread was like a contest for writers. To be quoted in "The Thread That Elliott Built" was considered an honor. To be quoted here meant other people validated what you had to say about Elliott. If your posts are ever quoted here, I hope you consider it an honor as well.
Unfortunately, the mods on the AI boards didn't see things our way and the thread which at the time was many thousand posts long vanished into oblivion one day. It was a sad day indeed. Somehow I doubt that the same thing will happen to the thread on this site. :D
I'll always be grateful to lothlorien and TxRangerette and many others who kept the thread alive on the AI boards for so long. It inspired me to write my best. I've asked them to continue the tradition here and they've agreed to do so. I'm hoping to see your best thoughts here as we once again try to grow this into the longest thread on the boards. I'm also going to ask that you make this thread the pride of the ETrain.
Some of these posts may make you laugh. Other may make you, like Paula, cry like a baby. I think it's because they're all written with true love and admiration for the talented and gifted Elliott Yamin.
So look hard to find something to quote here and who knows? We might even turn this into a book.
Thanks Etrain.
Elliott: "You Da Man!"
Mike
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 06:50 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (yellin4yamin) |
I Wrote This Poem For Elliott.... By Yellin4Yamin to thank him, for teaching us all, what the important things are in life...friends, family, and always believing in yourself!! I hope you like it, and DJ Babble hon, I am sending you a copy for your project!! Our Star Sometimes in life we often take the road that seems so easy, when all the while down deep inside, we’re feeling kinda queasy ‘Cause doing what we know is safe may not always be what’s right Nor will it help our souls to grow, or our hearts to take flight But you dear “E” you took a chance and took the harder road, not knowing where you would end up, not always feeling bold. Along the path, some hurdles jumped, some tears that you have cried, staying true to who you are, never changing what’s inside- At times you may not have believed your dreams were coming true, we stood there cheering by your side, we always saw you through This journey brought you to a place where you so brightly shine This road though not well traveled showed you places so Devine We saw in you so many things we all wish we could be. You make us want to take that road We’d never thought we’d see For in the sky a billion stars they shine from up above, But you’re the star that taught us to believe, to feel, to love!! Thank you Elliott Yamin, for inspiring us all to follow our dreams, to never take the easy road, and to always, ALWAYS BELIEVE!!! An E-Trainer 4 Life, Debbie Umel aka yellin4yamin Hillsboro, NH |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 07:13 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE ( jojojam1204) |
| The Gift Of Elliott, Elliott Elliott to me, is like getting a special gift. You see the package, all wrapped and tied up with a neat bow. It's like "heaven". The wrapping paper is nice to look at, even though the wrap has some slight imperfections. That's what makes it so unique. The package is small, but you know they say good things come in small packages. But the gift inside is huge. "It knocks me off my feet". I equate the wrappings of the gift with the outer Elliott. He is nice to look at (I actually find him very sexy, and that is BAAAD since I am old enough to be his mother). His eyes are windows to his soul, and they are beautiful. He has a crooked grin, which gives him that boyish charm. His outer wrappings are what we see first, to look at and wonder what is inside. But you can't possibly know what is inside the package, without opening it first, but "if I can dream"... I take off the wrapping and try not to tear it apart. Sometimes, the wrap gives me "trouble". But I open my gift carefully, so I do not damage the contents inside. I love surprises. I read the verses on the card, and I know this gift is very special. I equate the gift inside the package with the inner Elliott. It reveals his soul, his spirit and his beautiful voice. It is a wonderful surprise, because that voice is so expressive and beautiful. IT is like getting a new gift every day, because he never seems to sing a song the same way every time. And there is meaning behind his song choices. Selected especially for whomever wishes to listen. Like me. I love my gift of Elliott because I can't seem to get enough of that voice. I haven't enjoyed a gift (voice) like his in years. I guess that is what is so special about this gift. It's something refreshing. Not the same old thing year after year. And I welcome it with "open arms". I will take my gift "home" and use it every day. I will listen to his voice, singing his songs with love and passion and inspiration. "I believe to my soul", I have been given a gift I will never tire of. That gift is the voice of Elliott Yamin, "somebody to love". Sometimes it is necessary to go through the outer wrappings to get to the real gift inside. Sometimes people do not appreciate the gifts they receive. I love my gift, and I do appreciate it. "It had to be you", as no other gift will do. " I don't wanna be" selfish, so I will share my gift with my friends, so that they too can come to appreciate Elliott, as he sings 'a song to you". "If tomorrow never comes", I can say today that I have been given the best gift ever. If YAMIN it, then share the gift of Elliott. |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 07:31 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (LostInTheSeeThru ) |
| Why E Will Not Be "forgotten".., and instead, a Legend A true artist touches the lives of their listeners in a way that CANNOT be forgotten. Their gift reaches down to the depths of your soul, they connect with you, and take a piece of your heart. They bring people together. That is just what E has done for all of us. There is something VERY special and magical about that boy. When he smiles he lights up our hearts because he smiles with everything he's got. He has pure love and appreciation and passion sparkling in his eyes. When he sings you can FEEL the genuine emotions in every word. He lifts us up and inspires us at lengths that, to some of us, may have felt unimaginable. It is these things and more that make the E-TRAIN so very dedicated to seeing Elliott succeed. Way to go, E-TRAIN, we should all be so proud. I know I am. I don't think I have ever been so proud to represent someone in my entire life. Elliott Yamin will be a Legend. -------------------- <3 ~ Bobbi ~ <3 |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 07:34 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (ElliottzGirl) |
| Elliott Yamin.....the Thief May 23, 2006 ELLIOTT YAMIN……THE THIEF This is a very true story. And no, I am not a crazy person. So, it is 3AM on Wednesday morning and my 3 year old son just woke me up, crying in his sleep from a bad dream. That’s it....here it comes again....the background music in my head. It just won’t stop. I hear the music playing during conversations with people, while I am watching Entertainment Tonight, while I am reading Goodnight Moon to Jace……it just won’t stop. It plays over and over, that voice from an angel. That special gift. Uh oh……...here come the tears again. Gosh, I didn’t think I had any left? It’s been a week, for God’s sake! What has He done? When I first began watching American Idol, I thought it would be like every other year. Wouldn’t miss a night’s viewing, looking forward to the entertainment every week, possibly choosing a favorite that I may pull for, but never actually picking up the phone and voting. Boy, was I ever wrong! HE arrives. So, it’s the top 24. I already liked Taylor and Chris. AI shared their stories even before auditioning. But who is this guy? Oh my gosh, that voice! So, I called mom after the show just to chat like we do every night. “So, who do you like?” I asked. She liked Chris – and went on to tell me about him and his step children....such a great father, etc…etc… “I already have a clear favorite…....that guy with the short hair. He’s kinda short, I don’t know his name, but his voice gives me chills.” Nobody knew Elliott’s name. Having chosen my early favorite, I started noticing how American Idol never gave Elliott much face time as they did some of the prettier faces, the people they were focusing on, the contestants that they could see “looked” like the next American Idol. I wanted to see Elliott! Geez, can’t they ever show this guy? I had no clue to ‘anything Elliott’ until the one show when they spoke about their childhoods with their families. What a story! Deaf in one ear? Juvenile Diabetes? After that, I began doing my own research, and I just couldn’t believe that American Idol never spoke of his true Cinderella story. Wow, what he has overcome....sickness, ridicule, hard times.......the list goes on and on. It baffled me week after week why Elliott barely got any face time? Oh well, I just continued to wait for his turn every week, sitting a foot from the television. I was captured. Even through the lack of a “story”, he was slowly creeping into many, many hearts with his angelic voice. Still, seven nights after he leaves, I am still a wreck. I still can’t eat, can’t sleep, that weird feeling in the pit of my stomach, continually fighting tears. I am the girl at work who always has a smile, always is hopping around, playing practical jokes on my fellow employees. They didn’t make it easy on me; they knew I was obsessed with him. So, everyone made it a point to console me when they saw I looked like elephant woman from crying all night. Everyone would laugh at my screensaver, the homemade CD’s with my own custom labels I would give away, my Elliott conversations with my mom, my trade deals with everyone…..”Starbucks coffee for Elliott votes!” Yes, I’ve been pure entertainment for people at work as they have watched my transition from fun girl to crazed lunatic. I cried most of the day at work when he was voted off. Even the Chief of Police’s secretaries called me to come up to their office so they could console me! Yes, pure obsession. I’m a passionate girl, but, I have never, never in my life felt like this before. These deep emotions don’t ridiculously come from my “American Idol” being voted off! My emotion comes from how he has touched me. Some tell me “I need to put things in perspective”. And, that’s just it! Elliott DOES put life in perspective. He comes into a world where he struggles – with his health, hard times, with being different from all the other kids. He comes from nothing – he was lost. Yes, Elliott is sensitive, he cries easily......why? Because he knows the value of life – he takes nothing for granted. He has had to fight his entire life. I believe Elliott Yamin is a true gift from God. Now, I’m not real religious, but he truly is a gift to us all. He blesses us with his beautiful voice and heart, singing right through you, from the inside of his being, AND YOU FEEL IT. Elliott, some call you America’s sweetheart – I call you America’s Thief. You have stolen my heart, you have captured my soul. I don’t think I’ll ever be the same. Thank you. With much love, Myshel Romans San Diego, CA |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 07:39 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (Rittlady: A response to the above post!) |
This post makes me feel better, too. I have watched AI since season 2, occasionally picking favorites, but usually not voting, and certainly not voting a great deal. But something happened this season. From the first time I heard Elliott Yamin sing "If You Really Love Me", I was SOLD. I would vote the full two hours, and even bought a separate Cingular go-phone, so I could text vote at the same time, and then borrowed a co-worker's phone that was on Cingular, so I could text even more!!! I made calls and sent e-mails asking friends and family alike to vote for him. I didn't cry when he was eliminated, believe me, my husband makes fun of me enough as it is, but the subsequent depression is with me STILL. I have this recurring fantasy where the name "Katharine McPhee" comes up on that big board instead of Elliotts'. I've downloaded all his performances and burned several CD's so I can listen to him in my car, at work, at home, and never be without a way to hear that voice!!! In all my years, I've never been this emotionally invested in an entertainer, and yeh, it's kinda scary. I'm a Sunday School teacher, for goodness sake!! I'm 45, married, (actually today is my 25th wedding anniversary), and I have four children, two of which are grown men, but Elliott has made me feel as silly as a teenager with a crush. What is it about this guy that makes grown women LOSE THEIR EVER LOVIN' MINDS???? I'm driving three hours from my home to go see him in Birmingham in August. I'm totally excited about it. I just pray that he will have the opportunity to thrill us with his voice for years to come. I want to still be listening to Elliott's music on my 50th anniversary!! |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 07:41 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (shatner8 ^^) |
Your post captured my feelings too I am in awe of this beautiful man, and yes, I am married with children and all the stuff in life each day, all the daily struggle and the good too Elliot somehow finds his way through his spirit and his voice to reach this soul I can't explain it, and neither do I really desire to It's a mystery and i am glad for it in my life |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 07:44 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (outofmymind: The song Elliott will never get to sing...) |
I was always hopping that Elliott would make it to the final round of AI. And i would imagine him sing one song within which all the hope and joy and love in the heart of a good man like Elliott would mix with the lyrics and deliver a strong message to the whole audience. and move them to tears. That song, the song Elliott will never sing on american idol, but has already sang inside my mind, was "For Once In My Life" by Stevie Wonder. Ever since i heared this song (and that was after Elliott entered the competition) it was like Elliott was singing it instead, cause at some points Stevie's voice has almost the same hue as Elliott's. And it made so much sense when i was contemplating about what Elliott has been through in his life (the things i know through the media that is) , it actually looked like that song was written about Elliott. So at the elimination night, i actually didn't cry. It was that bitter sweet feeling inside my heart. I somehow fell this was not a sad moment for Elliott. And now i'm hearing the song again and please sail along with me inside the lyrics. Hear Elliott say: "For once in my life I have someone who needs me Someone I've needed so long For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me Somehow I know I'll be strong" And thats so true for Elliott. Cause he has inspired so many people already in the beginning of his career. He has inspired all of us with his talent, and his goodness and the superiority of his character. He has won us all. And we need that. We need to feel that there are still good people like Elliott out there in this misserable world, not "perfect looking" people, but imperfect people like us, who however choose not to compromise, not to sell their true self for a fabricate image that the world likes better. People who are good not because they have to in order to be likeable, but because it originates from their heart. God knows how much we starve for good examples. And for the inspiration we get from Elliott, we give our love back to him. And thats what Elliott needed so long. Our love. That warm feeling, that reassurance that will wipe his heart clean from any fear, and let him go where his life leads him. Unafraid, and strong. "For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of Long before I knew Oooh Someone warm like you Would make my dream come true" We can't forget that this is also a love song that talks about a woman and how much the warmth of her existence, brings a man's life close enough to the things that dreams are made of. And Elliott has this woman in his life. Elliott said that if there was a love song he would sing, it would have the title "Gratefull to be loved". Gratefull because behind every successfull man there is a woman inspiring and filling his life. Helping him realise his dreams. "For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me Not like it hurt me before For once, I have something I know won't desert me I'm not alone anymore" I feel this was the point in Elliott's life where all things change for the better. Where he can revolt against all the sorrow of his past and say "NO MORE! From now on i won't allow myself to be hurt anymore." Because there are so many great things in life that are now coming like a huge wave to wash away all the sorrows of the past. Its a wave of love. Our love. The love of the friends, known and unknown that Elliott has made for a lifetime. True friends that won't desert him, and leave him alone. "For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it As long as I know I have love, I can make it For once in my life, I have someone who needs me" And yes, for once in his life Elliott can say he found something that nobody can take away from him, not people not life, not death itself. Something as strong as love. Everyone's love. Not love for his music alone, but love for Elliott himself. And as long as Elliott knows he has this love, he can make it. For once in his life, Elliott has someone who needs him. Someone he can share his heart, his soul, and his love with. And i can't think of anythinng more fulfiling iin a man's heart than that. Yeah. This was definitely Elliott's song. The song he will never sing in the final. But he has sang it in my mind, and thinking about it, hearing it over and over, brings a smile to my face. Yes, Elliott is going to be alright.... |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 07:50 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (AshleyPacka: What Did You Send Elliott? Discuss your gifts and letters here) |
I went to Things Remembered and got a set of Dog Tags engraved. One says "Your voice touches my soul" and the other says the same thing, but in Hebrew. This ended up being pretty darn complicated, lol, and it's explained in my letter which I'm including in this post as well. Dear Elliott, Before I develop the main purpose of this letter I want to explain my gift, which is hopefully in your hands as you are reading this. I wanted more than anything to give you something tangible that could remind you any day, any time, that what you have done these past months has touched the hearts and souls of thousands upon thousands of people. I wanted to make it a bit more personal, and duplicate the message in Hebrew as well. Well let me tell you Mr. Yamin, this was no easy task. I am not Jewish, and had no idea about the Hebrew alphabet and spent a good deal of time researching how I could accomplish this. I finally tracked down someone online who was well versed and who is in contact with two Israeli professors, and she said that it could not be done entirely accurately unless it was written in the Hebrew alphabet, (and no one locally could engrave in Hebrew) because of the omission of vowels. Apparently there are no standard rules for writing in Hebrew when using the English alphabet, and she needed to consult the professors to find the most accurate translation. The first translation she gave me was kolkha nogea'a benishmati which is a literal translation of “your voice touches my soul.” She then added the kolkha mar'id et nimot nafshi and said that I might want to go with this more poetic version. (Apparently the meaning is more like, “your voice vibrates my soul” which in Hebrew still means “touches”, but has a deeper connotation.) I know that regardless of the translation I chose it cannot be entirely accurate because it is not written in the Hebrew alphabet, but I was hoping that you would appreciate the gesture nonetheless. With all of that said, you may now be wondering who the heck I am and why I’m tracking down Israeli professors and creating gifts for you. My name is Ashley and I am nothing more than your typical 23 year old, overly emotionally invested American Idol fan. (haha) I have always enjoyed the show, but never felt connected with a contestant or was compelled to spend my time voting. This all changed this season with you. From the first moment I heard your voice I was completely floored. American Idol has never found a voice that encapsulates such raw and genuine talent, and my days of apathy towards voting ended quickly. Tuesday nights became the highlight of my week in a time where things were quite difficult for me. I know that my struggles pale in comparison to things you yourself have faced, but these past few months have not been the happiest times for me. It may sound trivial to you, but I bought a puppy in January and he suddenly passed away after only having him for two weeks. Directly after this my bad luck continued, and I lost my apartment and had a massive falling out with my dearest friends. When AI Season 5 started I was without friends, an apartment, and without my sweet puppy. I was trying to cope with all of this, and juggle my job at Best Buy and work on my Master’s in Elementary Education. But each week, despite the encroaching darkness, there was light for me. I found such a reprieve in curling up on the couch and getting lost in your journey and voice. I found myself relating to you instantly. Music has always been my passion, and for a multitude of reasons I’ve shied away from pursuing it out of fear. And here was this man who came from obscurity without the flash or gimmicks of other contestants and was succeeding on voice alone. I was blown away, and inspired every week. For one to two hours each week I was able to escape my own pain and become lost in your talent and journey, and for that I will be forever grateful to you Elliott. You truly have a God given talent, and I hope this is something you now believe as much as your fans do. I am certain that dozens of doors have been opened for you now, but in the unlikely case you that face some bumps in the road as your career begins I want you to remember these words. Life for most people is a sequence of mundane events and their consequences. If they’re lucky, they have the rare chance to be touched by true greatness and talent. You Elliott: are that lucky. And as your fans, we are beyond lucky to have someone to follow that is so blessed. I simply cannot wait until your albums start rolling off the shelves and your words can continue to become the soundtrack to my life. Thank you for your courage, your perseverance, and your truly humble nature. I don’t know how many people I’ve seen who get a taste of success and allow it to go to their head. It means something to see someone who appreciates everything in such a genuine manner. I’ve said it to everyone I have talked to in the past few months: you are a true class act. I hope you enjoy your gift, and I look forward to all that the future holds for you. I will be attending the Idols tour in Tampa in August, and I am beyond excited to hear your voice in person. Thank you again Elliott, you are and always will be the true American Idol in my eyes. Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay for being the biggest sap alive! |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 07:51 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (cfans ^^) |
I sent him a letter as well, but very short and not nearly as eloquent: I am so overjoyed for you that I cannot express it. You are so deserving of the adulation you are receiving not only for your glorious voice, but for the way you have conducted yourself throughout the competition. I know that you have received many blessings from having gone on this journey and are grateful for the friendships you have made and will most likely keep for the rest of your life. As a mother of a son who is almost your age, I can speak for mothers everywhere when I say that you have given your mother the greatest gift possible. You have allowed her to take this journey with you and have always let it be known how much you love and admire her. We live for our children and to be acknowledged even just a little bit is precious. I wish for you many continued blessings and incredible journeys |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 07:53 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (Elliotyael ^^) |
wow, i bet he's gotten so many letters /oo\ i didint know there was another address to send things to. If i had , i would have sent a drawing. I did send him an email last week *blush* i was really scared to do it, but i decided to try , i thought it would be really nice lol. uh..i guess i should post what i wrote lol Hello Mr Elliott I'm so very nervous , but here i go lol. I want to say congratulations for doing so well and getting so far.. you won third place on a huge show, thats so great! My name is Ness, and ive never watched AI before, but i started watching it this year by random chance and when you first sang, you were my favorite right away <*blushes much*>. Youre a super awesome singer, and you dont sound like anyone else, you just sound like Elliott Yamin ^__^ Thats so wonderful and i love it <*claps for you*> hehe. I sure cant wait to have your music. My mom already says she wants to get one for herself, and one for me and my sister, and she wants to send a copy to her mom because she loves great singers. ( and we usually cant afford to buy music often..lol ) My family loves you very much^__^ my mom told me she prays for you often, that things will go really well, and that your family will no longer have to struggle through so much. I think you deserve it lots, for it to go all right. I pray too, hehe <*much blushing again*> My family is a lower middle class one , too, and your story gave us lots of hope that all things are possible. I really hope i can be an artist someday ( the drawing kind, i love drawing ^ ^ ) and I want to help my family.We live in Virginia too! Yay! represent'n VA <*laughs lots*> This whole thing must have been amazing and so huge. Wow, i can't even imagine what it must have been like. lol. It looks really scary..but im so glad you did it, because now we got to hear you. Thank you , thank you very much. Now your going to see so many places and do big concerts. Thats so amazing. Im very lucky that one of the shows is going to be in DC. Its really close! Richmond is second closest, but its kind of a long drive still..<*sheepish*>I've never been to a tour concert before, but my sister scrounged up enough to get tickets for me and her and my mom. Its so hard to belive, but we are going to be able to go <*so happy*>And it will be also so worth it to help support you guys. You are all so talented and fun to watch on tv, but i bet its super amazing live. We will be cheering you on as much as we can . I hope you all have an amazing time and experience together. It will be like an adventure. Oh my, and last night's show was so great. The duet with Mary J Blige..wow again lol. Not many get to do that. Sing with the Queen of RnB.You did such great harmonies together, it was all perfect! <*many claps again*> It was such a great night. I'd better finish this off soon,^ ^;; lol. I hope things continue to go so amazingly and good and i hope you and your family are doing all right , i wish everyone the best and so much love. I know the rest of my family does too.*waves* ^__^ Bye-bye Mr Y (that rhrymes! hehe ) -Ness R. |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 08:13 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (mcornelio: The Faith Hope and Love of Elliott Yamin) |
| I’m flying to the east coast today as I write this. I knew that it would be a long flight so I grabbed a book by Richard and Kristine Carlson titled “Don’t Sweat The Small Things In Love.” The book contains 100 suggestions about improving relationships. As I was reading I noticed how several of the suggestions read like a blueprint for what I’ve seen in Elliott each week on American Idol. I’ve listed six of them below. Let me know if you agree? 1. Conspire to Inspire. I don’t know if Elliott purposely planned to inspire anybody. I think that he was a kid with a dream and time was running out so he jumped at his last chance as he saw time slipping away. He had no credentials or portfolio to bring to the table. All he had was faith in himself and a hope that he would do well and that he would be given a chance. But he did inspire and his fans are doing all they can to see his dream come true. Why is that? It’s because they see something in Elliott that is greater than just his singing. 2. Don’t sweat the occasional criticism. It’s been said that, “The final proof of greatness lies in being able to endure continuously without resentment.” In this entire season, the number of negative comments Elliott’s received from the judges have been few but for someone so innocuous he’s been ridiculed by the media and many who just don’t understand him. Yet he continues to endure and put on the best performances each week. He has not had one bad performance all season. 3. Be consistently grateful. You can see it in his eyes just how grateful Elliott is to be where he is now. From his excitement in getting his golden-ticket to his tears-of-joy moment after making the top 24 his gratitude just beams. Each elimination night I can see him with the jitters as he awaits the verdict and each week as he’s declared safe it’s like he offers up a silent prayer of thanks. 4. Choose to be supportive. Stay compassionate. Every time someone is voted off it’s almost as though a little bit of Elliott dies. On the one hand he’s happy that he’s been given another chance but he’s saddened that the price of his success is someone else’s loss. He has always been supportive and shown compassion for those who were voted off. You see it in his genuine anguish and compassion in his eyes. If you’ve seen the AI Extra video of Chris Daughtry singing his farewell song there is a short clip at the end where you see Elliott in his pink shirt looking lost with his eyes glistening. Because Elliott understands rejection he can empathize with those who feel that pain. 5. Never underestimate the power of love. So Elliot had faith and he had hope. But it is also written that, “There are faith, hope, and love. But of these three, the greatest is love.” So where does this love come in? The best definition I’ve heard of love says this, “Love is kind and patient, never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude. Love isn't selfish or quick tempered. It doesn't keep a record of wrongs that others do. Love is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting. Love never fails!” On April 25, 2006 Elliott sang these words, “Listen to the melody ‘cuz my love is in there hiding.” I interpreted this line as Elliott saying, "I know that when I speak I may not be really eloquent or say the right things. I'm kind of awkward like that. But, listen to me when I sing because all the love that I have, I put into my songs, and I hope that maybe, just maybe, you'll see my heart and know that I love you." At the time, I didn’t explain what I thought his love was. But now you know the rest of the story. As the melody of Elliott’s life has played across the American Idol stage this season, we didn’t have to look too hard to see his love hiding. He acted out his love in all that he said and did. It was in plain sight for everyone to see if you knew what to look for. This was the greatest gift that Elliott brought to this competition--the love that he has in himself that he willing shares with others. It is the reason I believe that he is the real deal and most deserving of the idol crown. 6. Finish the job. So this is the last step. It’s time to put the E-Train into high gear and push toward the goal of helping Elliott to complete his dream. I listened to a phone interview that Elliott gave to a radio station back in Richmond at the start of the competition. When asked if he thought he could go all the way he answered, “I think I can.” What about you? Do you think he can? When I had the chance to follow a career in music I pulled back. I had the skill, but I lacked the faith and hope that Elliott has. I didn’t finish the job of seeing it through then but I don’t plan to let that happen here. What “finishing the job” means to me is that I’m going to be doing everything in my power to help Elliott achieve his goal. It’s that simple. I’m going to text-vote and dial-vote and recruit as many people as I can to make it happen. I'm also going to keep writing and encouraging when I can. We’re in the final stretch. In a couple of weeks this will all be over. But tomorrow we do or we die. I’m hoping that we give it our all to live another day. And should we win the day, Elliott may once again have the chance to say, "This is the happiest day of my life." So put on your best game face, get your phones ready, and get ready to vote. Elliott: “You Da Man!” |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 08:16 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (mcornelio: Thursday May 18 2006 Grief And The Healing Process) |
| It was a difficult time in the Elliott Yamin forum on americanidol.com last night. Some couldn't believe that it had happened, some were angry, many were sad and depressed. There were many who expressed regrets about not voting enough. Some came to console. Others came to behave badly. The forum which had once been the pride of the E-Train was in disarray. Many seemed lost. The E-Train had lost their champion and we as a group were feeling the same pain that the fanbases of other idols who were voted off have felt. But it wasn’t until last night that it really hit home. For the E-Train, the pain was fresh and many were inconsolable. Many of the Chris, Paris, and Bucky fans were the first to come to offer support in tangible ways. Some acted as guards providing cover to stave the wave of troll posts that were flooding the board. Others were like medics treating the walking wounded by offering words of encouragement borne of experience. Some enterprising E-Trainers went off in search of safe harbor across the net and established a portal to transport people there. They sent coded messages to the E-Troops scattered throughout the threads marshalling as many as they could so that those who could not remain in the fray could be teleported across the void to a place where they could grieve in peace. Yes, grieve. I think sometimes we forget that grief is a process. Anger, denial, depression and bargaining are all part of a natural process that eventually leads to acceptance and healing. So it was okay to be angry, okay to cry, okay to have regrets and okay to feel lost and depressed. It was a natural thing and it just had to work itself out. For those who cried themselves to sleep and cried as they drove to work and are sitting at work right now telling their coworkers that their allergies are acting up there is nothing wrong with you. It will get better. The very process of letting these emotions out has a purging effect that allows your soul to heal. I know that many people know this, but it didn’t seem like many who came to the E-Forums last night had a clue about how grief works. I’m not a psychiatrist nor am I a grief counselor. But I understand what it is like to lose someone and I know that it just takes time. I’m not sure if enough time has passed for many of you but I can assure you that what you’re feeling will eventually pass. As deeply as this loss was for the E-Train, I’m sure that it was that much more devastating for Elliott. Yet he left with a lot of class. He wasn’t angry or resentful but grateful. This is the mark of a great man and we should be proud to call ourselves his fans. To all those who came to help in the E-Train’s time of need I salute you. Elliott: “You Da Man!”  |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 08:19 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (mcornelio) |
A Song For America Originally published Apr 26, 2006 10:36 AM PST in "An Elliott Fan's Blog" at americanidol.com  "A Song For You" is just the perfect song for Elliott on so many levels. It tells the story of his life and allows him to open up his soul to you in a way that can, like Paula, move you at times to tears of sadness and finally to tears of joy. Elliott pours his heart and soul into this simple song and this performance is made great because through his personal life experience he truly understands what the song is trying to say and he takes all that and pours it into this one song. I know that sounds a bit corny so I'm going to try to use what Elliott sang to try and show you what I mean. I know that he didn't sing the whole song but the song in its entirety is his life. And with apologies in advance for being overzealous in part, this is why this is his song. I've been so many places in my life and time I've sung a lot of songs I've made some bad rhyme I've acted out my life on stages with ten thousand people watching But we're alone now and I'm singing this song for you We all know the Elliott story-divorced parents, moving from LA to Richmond, dropping out of High School, his many jobs, juvenile diabetes, his love for his mom, his GED, and more. I think the first two lines capture his life so movingly. At age eleven he moved across the country to start a new life. He made "some bad rhyme" in school and at work. With this simple introduction, he lays the framework for what he's about to tell you. But he brings you back to the moment, even in front of millions of people, by looking straight at you with his perfect eyes and makes it seem like he's talking to you and you alone. Yes, talking. You almost forget that he's singing because he convinces you that he wants to tell you something from the very start. His gentle treatment of the first verse makes it seem like it truly is an intimate moment and he wants you to come in closer so that, like a friend, he can speak to you heart-to-heart. Elliott's life has been on display for everyone to see on the American Idol stage and he hasn't pulled any punches. He tells it like it is and I can hear him say, "I know you're all rooting for me to do good here." But he'd add, "Even though I could just wow you with my singing, I'm not a flashy guy. So, I want you to look beyond that. I want you to see that I'm just like you. Even though I've had some tough times, I'm not holding anything back about myself. It's all here for you to see. I'm not a perfect guy, but hey, this is me, warts and all. If you really want to know me I'm gonna be up front about everything." And yes, Elliott's been just that-straight up front with his life, his emotions, his dreams, and his love. You taught me precious secrets of true love withholding nothing ... But now I'm so much better and if my words don't come together ... Listen to the melody cause my love is in there hiding ... It almost seems to me like I've watched Elliott grow up on the American Idol stage. When he first showed up at the auditions he was this gangly kid with a great voice but just kind of weird looking. But over time, his singing and his spirit made us look past that. As we've watched Elliott grow into this superstar moment, we his fans have shown him that "precious secret" of just being Elliott by embracing him and accepting him just as he was. And it's almost like he's saying back, "Thanks. And you know what? I think I'm gonna be OK with who I am. You've helped me to believe in myself and for that I'm grateful." Then he adds, "I know that when I speak I may not be really eloquent or say the right things. I'm kind of awkward like that. But, listen to me when I sing because all the love that I have, I put into my songs, and I hope that maybe, just maybe, you'll see my heart and know that I love you." And when my life is over remember when we were together ... This is the part of the song that brought the tears for me. I know that the phrase "and when my life is over" really talks about dying, but at that moment I was thinking, "What if America doesn't get it? What if they don't want a real person to win this thing? What if Elliott doesn't make it all the way through?" But then he goes on to say, ". ..remember when we were together." It's almost as if he's saying, "It's OK. We've had some great times together. I got to sing my songs and so what if people don't understand me. We're gonna be alright." Then I remember all the great performances that he put on and how I'll always have not only that to look back on, but even greater things to come. We were alone and I was singing this song to you ... At the end it's like he's a bit choked up and is whispering in your ear, "Hey. Forget about all that because what's important is that we're here now, in this place, at this moment, and I was here with just you, you and me, and I sang just for you." I think tonight, Elliot made a believer out of many, many people. He made us believe this song because it was his life and we were lucky enough to be here to share in the moment. Elliott rightfully so received a lot of praise for this song. Adjectives like "great", "world-class", "superb", "moving", and much more. But you know what? I think the reason why it was so great was because it was real emotion and real life. Tonight of all others singing, only Elliott had that to give. Elliott ... "You Da Man |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 08:26 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (Gwen4791:TRIBUTE TO ELLIOTT YAMIN May 18 2006 ) |
ELLIOTT YAMIN in his own words - "I still don't think words have been invented to describe how awesome I feel." Anyone who has read any of my blogs or recaps for any length of time should know by now who my pick for American Idol was...that's right...ELLIOTT YAMIN. Elliott wasn't at his best on Tuesday night, but I held out hope until the very end that he would come out in the top 2. However, that just wasn't to be. Yes, I cried, I'm not ashamed to admit...with a million (or more) other people. I asked myself yesterday, why do I get so attached to the contestants of this show year after year after year? I say every single time that I'm not going to do it, and I make myself a liar every single time. This year was a little different, though. It was a little more intense. The reason why, I think, is because Elliott Yamin represented everyday America. He could have been any one of us. For the most part, we all work for a living. We either have or know someone who has a serious illness. Some of us as youth suffered problems trying to find exactly what the purpose for our life was. We have all endured hardships. The majority of us don't look like movie stars. That is where Elliott connected with us. Elliott Yamin left high school in the tenth grade. Under the encouragement of one of his employers, he earned his GED. He admitted that he'd had a number of jobs. He has Type 1 diabetes and has to wear an insulin pump. He is 90% deaf in his right ear. During Hollywood week, his mother became seriously ill, but he persevered on through the competition. Strange...but we didn't hear about much of this stuff until about week 3 of the competition. By then, he had won me over with his first song. I feel that Elliott Yamin, of all of the seasons of American Idol, actually earned his third place finish, and yet he was the most gifted of them all. He sang his way to the top, doing more time in the bottom than most of the other contestants. Yet, his fans fought like bulldogs, determined to keep him where his talent demanded he belonged. How does someone who is nearly deaf sing so well? There are people who sing, and then there are people who SING. See, I can sing, but I don't love to sing. When you love singing, it's a part of you, and there really is no way that anyone can take it away. For Elliott, it's had nothing to do with hearing notes, keys, and rhythms. The music came from the inside out. When he sang, it was like reading his very thoughts - it was so real. He had the ability to bless each of us with his voice alone. Since day one, Elliott Yamin has connected with me. This is the kind of voice that transports music to another level. Since then, I have come to realize that regardless of how America votes, I know that Elliott Yamin will be someone that I will remember for years to come. I will listen to his American Idol performances for days on end and ask myself, "Where was he hiding all this time?" I will faithfully keep myself updated once the show is over and will be one of the first in line to buy his CD. In future seasons of the show, I will compare every other singer to him. He has set another standard for Idol performances everywhere. Remembering his Idol performances: “If You Really Love Me” by Stevie Wonder Normally, I’d say that if I heard one more Stevie Wonder song, I’d become seriously ill. But, tonight this was absolutely beautiful. This guy's voice is amazing. He and Chris are running neck-and-neck into the finals. “Moody’s Mood for Love” by John Moody This boy’s awesome. If he records a CD with that song on it 10 times, I’m buying it. There you go, America. He may not have the looks of a star, but that voice!!!!! I guess y’all figured out that he’s one of my favorites. “Heaven” by Bryan Adams Okay, say it with me - “Elliott Yamin has the hottest voice in the world.” And, he is nearly deaf in one ear? What? Well, more power to you. His voice is a gift, and he blesses me every time he sings. This song was not particularly something that I would have liked to hear him sing. (Speaking of which, Paula and Randy, I love you guys, but please stop blabbing all over Simon’s comments. You really need to understand that constructive criticism is not always positive, but it is meant to make the singers better. Being the gifted vocalist that he is, I know that Elliott will take that to heart and stray away from those types of songs in the future). This particular song is from a whole different genre than I’ve heard Elliott sing before, and he couldn’t really show off his vocals tonight. But, I love him anyway. I think he’s a top 12 shoo-in. “Knocks Me Off My Feet” by Stevie Wonder I read today that Elliott has diabetes, and he has to wear an insulin pump. Every time I hear something about this guy, I am even more amazed. Besides, I love a man who isn’t afraid to show emotion. Having said that, I didn’t truly like Elliott singing this song for this night. But, the ending of the song was awesome. Gosh, this man has the most soothing, smooth, amazing, sing-me-a-love-song voice He hasn’t really wowed me since week 2, but I know he’s got it in him. I can’t wait to hear what’s next. “Teach Me Tonight” by Al Jarreau Barry Fanilow. Hah! That was funny, and hopefully Barry forgets that he said he wasn't fond of his music. I had to stop typing to watch this one. It ranked right up there with his "Moody's Mood for Love" for me. This kind of music is SO Elliott's element. He's moving, and gesturing, and painting a picture of the song for us. Good deal, Elliott. He is an intricate singer, I mean, really complicated. I admire him for that reason alone. Him singing is like a vocal maze, and he always gets through it amazingly well. I'll tell you one thing - when he releases that album, I'll be the first one in line. Fantasic it was!!! “I Don’t Wanna Be” by Gavin DeGraw I worried a little bit when I saw the song because it seemed to be a bit outside of his vocal style, and like he said, my Bo Bice did it last year. However, I was surprised, and pleasantly so. Elliott jammed it out tonight, and I loved the arrangement. It was a little bit hip hop and a whole lot wonderful! My only criticism was that the dancing didn't look all that natural, kind of like he was counting beats. But, you know what? I didn't care. It’s going to be really hard for Elliott to do wrong in my eyes, especially since his voice is so phenomenal. I still look at him and am amazed every, single time at his vocal quality. Oh yeah, did I mention that I was also a fan of his? "If Tomorrow Never Comes" by Garth Brooks Knowing my love for Elliott Yamin, I'm going to find it extremely hard to criticize him. That's right. You're gonna have to draaaaaaaaag it out of me. No, in all seriousness, versatility is the key here. By versatility, I mean, you take the gift of a song you've never sung before, but one that the audience has probably heard before, and you wrap it with the new paper, which is the uniqueness of your voice. In doing this, there is no holding back. The lyrics to this song were definitely important. I mean, the question being asked is "If I die tonight, have a given her enough love to last her for the rest of her life?" Think about it. That being said, this was a performance that did not extend outside of the box. I felt that it was subpar for Elliott. I know he's capable of more, because I've heard it. Out of his element (not doing lots of the licks and runs that I love him for), his uneasiness became visible, and he sort of pulled back on expressing the soulfulness of his voice. Now that I've slashed the greatest voice in the world to pieces (that hurt me so much), Elliott brought it home at the end. I caught a glimpse of that super-awesome voice. This was in no way my favorite performance from him, but his voice will always blow me away. "Somebody to Love" by Queen A deejay, huh? Who knew Elliott and Ryan had something in common? #1 - Y'all know I love Elliott. #2 - Y'all know I was sweating bullets last week when he was in the bottom two with MANDISA. #3 - Y'all know I worried about him doing Queen this week. Having said that, I relaxed a little (just a little) tonight. Elliott was lively on stage. He looked a bit more comfortable with himself, and he did a number on that song! I got the feeling that he enjoyed himself just as much as I enjoyed him. Yes, he was pitchy in spots, and initially it was kind of hard for me to follow the song. But, man oh man...that voice! Can we just give it up for the voice?It's awesome!! Okay, back to reality. Elliott definitely stepped it up tonight and gave much more of himself than I've ever seen. My fingers are so crossed that this keeps him out of the bottom three. "It Had to Be You" by Frank Sinatra So, my question is: Is Elliott's girlfriend still in town? Gosh! What more can I say? His...voice...is...amazing! I cannot say that enough! This performance tonight had me longing for an Elliott/Paris duet. Can he release the album already?! Elliott did seem to be a little more loosened up tonight - even more than last week. But, Simon is probably right this time. I mean, I've expressed this before - but, I don't think Elliott is truly aware of his vocal ability. Although he seems to become more confident with each passing week, he hasn't fully let go. He's not as confident as he should be. If I had a voice like that, you couldn't stop me or shut me up. Without a doubt, whatever album he releases will do well. The talent is there. I mean, just listening to him sing gives me chills. But, if he threw himself into the song, it would blow us out of our minds! Here's to a great vocal performance!!! "A Song for You" by Donny Hathaway Man, have I mentioned that I love David Foster?! He hit the nail on the head when he instructed Elliott to create his own licks and not imitate the style of Donnie Hathaway. That is constructive criticism. This elevates the song above what Simon Cowell likes to call "glorified karaoke." The arrangement of this song was a little tricky. I understand that they were trying to up the ante a bit and make it a little more contemporary. There is a special soulfulness to Elliott's voice that they were trying to encompass. If Paula doesn't cry at least once, then this isn't American Idol. Tonight however, she wasn't alone. Elliott Yamin - brought tears to my eyes, gave me chills, and had me rewinding my tape like a maniac. Had you seen me, you would have thought I'd lost my mind! He got ahead of the music at the very beginning, and he hit one flat note in the middle of the song. Other than that, it was perfect - so soulful, so heartfelt, such a close-your-eyes-and-feel-it rendition by Elliott. I can definitely picture him recording this type of music - this song, as a matter of fact. I'm glad he took the advice that he was given. “On Broadway” by George Benson Right off the bat, Elliott would have to fight what I like to call the “numbness factor.” People have heard this song so much that they are almost immune to it. From the start, it’s begging for the “wow” factor to make the audience sit up and take notice. To his credit, Elliott did a decent job singing. I did not hear the roughness that Randy alluded to. His rifts at the end of each stanza were nice, and the scatting in the middle was excellent. Elliott was in a difficult place tonight – first in each rotation. Vocally, he is consistent. I can look forward to each week knowing that I will enjoy him. “Home” by Michael Buble Gosh, I love this song!!! Simon has a point here, though. Sometimes, these songs are prophetic. I’ve seen singers go home on “Last Dance” and “That’sAll.” I don’t want him to go home yet, so I sat through the rest of the show, phone in hand, waiting for that ending theme music. I understood the sentimentality of the song, but it felt a bit boring and safe. I kept waiting for one of Elliott’s breakout moments, and it didn’t seem to come. Summation: Elliott is, by far, this season’s most consistent vocalist. He did a decent job tonight, but with a stellar performance like he last week, he bordered on too safe tonight. He will need voter support for sure, but if I have my say, he’ll be around much longer! "If I Could Dream" by Elvis Presley (1968) I dug my nails into my palms and plucked a few hairs from my head. Why do they insist on showing Elliott in rehearsal looking like some AMATEUR? Yes, I was upset...initially. But, after his performance, I was in awe. They only succeeded in showing me what a dedicated and hard worker he is and how much this means to him. I mean, he did a great job on a song that I am unfamiliar with, and he made me want to hear more of it...perhaps go out and buy it. I said this last week, and I'll say it again...Elliott's voice begs for complexity. He sounds better on these types of songs. The intricacies and the modulation was superb. The judges were certainly glowing tonight with praise and positivity all around. While this was indeed the best performance of the three, this was actually the first time that I sensed Elliott's vocal struggle. It was very slight and hardly noticeable right near the beginning, and he needed a little more control of his vibrato in the first stanza as well. Other than that - still the best vocalist of Season 5! "Trouble" by Elvis Presley (1958) I don't know whether or not any of you have ever been to a black church - but Elliott definitely brought it home tonight! I was really into this one! Now, I'm giving him props, because I heard Tommy Mottola tell him that the song demanded attitude. There's probably no one who has talked about Elliott's shyness more than me. He sometimes would seem to be stuck in the middle of the stage like he was afraid to move. But, tonight he threw caution to the wind and showed me more attitude, personality, and enthusiasm than I have ever seen from him. He was amazing, believable, and fearless. Congratulations to you, Elliott!!!!! "Open Arms" by Journey First of all, let me specify that Elliott did not forget the lyrics to the song, he reversed them. When he did that, there was a slight hesitation that let us know that he realized he'd made a mistake. I thought that this was a great song choice for Elliott. Although it may classify as a rock ballad, he has the voice to carry it, without a doubt. He was not only stiff onstage, but it seemed like his vocal chords had stiffened up as well, and he really had to push to get the words out toward the end. At the beginning of the song, I got chills. The sound was so breathy and sincere. He also had a better grip on his vibrato - it wasn't as wobbly as it was in previous weeks. I love Elliott in his higher register. When he has to push from his diaphragm more, the sound tends to be very raw. Overall, it was good. "What You Won't Do For Love" by Bobby Caldwell I love the fact that the judges are SO mature! Really! Did I actually see Simon blush and mumble "Sorry" after Ryan scolded him? Gosh! Talk about stealing a moment!!! Anyway, Paula's explanation as to why she had chosen this song for Elliott wasn't exactly clear except that "the funky white boy who has soul and rhythm can get into the song." Huh? Sigh. I just remember them allowing her to choose Jasmine Trias' song as well. Grrrrrr. Elliott really tried to loosen up on this song. He came trotting out and had a bit of a jazzy bounce. And, you know what? Although he appeared to be a little stiff, the sound was pretty darn good. Should he release this type of album, it'll do well, I think. This neo-soul-jazz thing seems to be his niche. Once again, great control of the vibrato. Gotta give it to Elliott - always wonderful singing. "I Believe to My Soul" by Ray Charles (asb)Donny Hathaway Can I just say that I loved that jacket on Elliott??? So snazzy!! Elliott's choice of music also suits his voice very well. Another question: Were the background singers absent tonight? The song sounded a little bit empty. I love the fact that he appreciates older soul singers. For the most part, their music was a great deal better than today's soul. It was more meaningful and heartfelt - kind of like they could identify more with what they were singing. As much as I love Ray Charles, I was not very familiar with the song. But, I do recognize the mixture of gospel and blues, and that has a very specific sound. This is the kind of singing that I grew up hearing. He has that very sound without even trying. That's not something that can be taught. It's a God-given gift, and it's almost unexplainable. I still didn't feel that he was able to get a grip on his uneasiness, and there were several pitchy problems throughout. But, I love Elliott Yamin to death. He sounds good singing pretty much anything. Elliott Yamin is a survivor...he's a competitor...he's the embodiment of an American Idol. Season 5 belongs to Elliott Yamin. Period. |
EmJay321 - June 27, 2006 08:27 AM (GMT)
:thumbsup: To this thread!
My friend Mylisa wrote this back when Elliott made it into the top 4 and originally posted it on myspace. She was the one who opened my eyes to the talent that is Elliott Yamin. It was posted on other forums with her permission and I just thought it was worth sharing again...
My friend Mylisa wrote this back when Elliott made it into the top 4 and originally posted it on myspace. She was the one who opened my eyes to the talent that is Elliott Yamin. It was posted on other forums with her permission and I just thought it was worth sharing again...
| QUOTE (Nix74: Why Elliott Deserves To Be The American Idol) |
As MANY of you know, I choose Elliott. And I picked him the very second I heard him sing. But it's more than his brilliant vocals that make me a die-hard fan and supporter. He's more than just "the next big pop-star"....(he's not really "pop" at all, mind you.. that's why he's the underdog. That and the media refuses to back him.) He has the best personality AND of course, the best voice. Natural and True. Consider this: Elliott stands above the rest, but he's too modest to showcase it in this competition. He is only just beginning to come out of his shell to show the world what he is capable of doing. Kat has sung in front of MANY people in shows, choir, theater. Her mother is a vocal coach. She has a trained voice, but still has immense trouble with timing, and pitch at points. She is likeable and beautiful however, so that makes up for her lacks. Chris has sung in a band for many years and has done shows all over the place in that band. He's a seasoned performer. He has beautiful tone and showmanship but has not been able to adapt to change throughout the weeks. He is what he is. Taylor has been performing for years and years and years and years and has at least one album out. I'm truly not sure why he's permitted in this amateur competition. He's a performer, but his vocals are NOT extraordinary by ANY stretch, even as a kickback to some earlier classic performers. But Elliott is just a young man from Virginia with a heart of gold and a voice from god; Whom up until he auditioned for American Idol, wouldn't even let some of his friends hear him sing without turning off the lights he was so shy. And now... we've seen him TRANSFORM before our very eyes and he's only gonna get BETTER ... IF that's AT all possible. He's just now learning how to perform and how to show the world more than just his voice and he's doing it facing adversities some people never have to think about, being near DEAF in one ear and having advanced Diabetes that has hindered his looks and life. To me, Elliott shines above the rest in both his level of talent AND in his determination to become a better person and most importantly, he is an INSPIRATION to others who don't have that chance initially or just don't think they do. Elliott is what this competition is about. Taking an amazing talent and turning him or her into a star who can inspire and influence others to be the best person THEY can be. I hope that some of you will consider these things in the upcoming weeks, and perhaps change your minds, and open your hearts to something bigger than who is the most marketable and who'll make the most cash for the network execs. Elliott is the REAL DEAL. And truly deserves the title: American Idol. |
realitymom - June 27, 2006 01:17 PM (GMT)
I don't possess the ability to write my feelings in such a way as to encapture an audience, or even get my meaning across usually. What I love about this thread, is that I can read posts written by wonderfully expressive fans who ARE capable of writing eloquently & in an easy to comprehend manner allowing me to simply say...
I second that.... all of it. Every last letter of each post containing a heartfelt testimonial to Elliott & his talent....
For me, it began with his voice, but he captured my heart with his amazing soul & spirit. As someone else wrote, Elliott not only possesses a gift...he IS a gift.
Thankyou to mc, loth & dgtegirl for resurrecting such a wonderfully inspirational thread. And thanks to all you amazing posters who give a clear & proud voice to all of us who love Elliott, but dont have the ability to express it.
Keep it comin... I have more to say! ;)
:wub:
realitymom
I second that.... all of it. Every last letter of each post containing a heartfelt testimonial to Elliott & his talent....
For me, it began with his voice, but he captured my heart with his amazing soul & spirit. As someone else wrote, Elliott not only possesses a gift...he IS a gift.
Thankyou to mc, loth & dgtegirl for resurrecting such a wonderfully inspirational thread. And thanks to all you amazing posters who give a clear & proud voice to all of us who love Elliott, but dont have the ability to express it.
Keep it comin... I have more to say! ;)
:wub:
realitymom
AshleyPacka - June 27, 2006 02:06 PM (GMT)
I am completely floored. I am so surprised that not only were these beautiful posts saved from falling into obscurity, but collected together and pinned for everyone to see. What a wonderful and kind gesture.
And speaking on my own behalf, I am very flattered that you chose you quote my letter. Thank you Mike, thank you dgtegirl :glomp:
And speaking on my own behalf, I am very flattered that you chose you quote my letter. Thank you Mike, thank you dgtegirl :glomp:
yellin4yamin - June 27, 2006 02:41 PM (GMT)
Well, sometimes the words come quite easily to me, like the poem that I wrote about our Elliott, that I am floored, and blessed, and humbled was included in this oh so special thread. Right now, after reading all of these amazing tributes to the man, it is as if words fail me. Maybe it is because each one of the tributes to Elliott says it all, each in a different, yet oh so PERFECT way. THANK YOU Mike, for starting the thread that TRULY BLESSES not only Elliott, but his fans, and loved ones who have stuck by him from the very beginning. THANK YOU TxRangerette for including my poem, in with the ranks of some of the most eloquent writers, I have ever had the pleasure of "meeting", getting to know, and getting to share in the experience that is ELLIOTT YAMIN. Lastly, I guess all I can say to the man behind it all, one Elliott Yamin, is THANK YOU for all but reaching your hands into each of our chests, for hugging our hearts, then placing a light kiss on each of our souls and for whispering..."remember me." For you, for your voice, for your heart, for your soul, for daring to take that chance and share yourself not only with each of us, but ESPECIALLY with yourself, I say...THANK YOU. If it were not for Elliott Yamin, I would not have been blessed enough, to "meet" some of the most incredible people on this here, planet earth. THIS is what it is all about:)
xxoo
Debs
xxoo
Debs
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 05:00 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (outofmymind: I take a close look at Elliott's heart and here's what i see...Posted on AI: 5/8/2006 3:26:00 PM PST) |
This must be the most arbitrary thread i ever wrote about Elliott. Its about his heart, his personality, the details written between the lines that most of the audience misses, but i think it would be great if they didn't. So here is my attempt to shed some light on what i think Elliott realy IS according to what i've read and saw about him. Elliott is a shy guy. A closet singer as his mother said on an interview. Shyness comes mainly from lack of self confidence. It also comes from a sensitive heart. A heart that has been hurt, has been rejected, and has faced pain numerous times. Elliott's life shows plenty of that pain. His parents getting divorced: I can't think of many tragedies worse than that, in the eyes of a 10 year old. His relocation to a new state, his loss of childhood friends and familiar enviroment. Then his ear infections, and loss of hearing. The innability to hear from one ear and all the embarassing situations that this may have caused him. I hear great but i have felt so embarassed at times when i just couldn't get what people were telling me 3-4 times in a row. I can't imagine what that must be like for Elliott on a permanent basis. Elliott is also short for the average american male. I'm 5'6" and my "friends" at school had plenty of fun looking down on me, amd making fun of me, like i was some kind of dwarf. Nothing of a confidence booster there... Elliott had no major talents he could stick to while he was growing up... Tell me about it. The only thing i was good about when i was a kid, was writing essays, and that only made the whole class look uppon me like i was some nerd! Once again, having no major talents can make someone think that he is no good at all, worthless at best. And then comes the diabetes. The final strike. His own body turning against him. Making him tremble and faint many times, thinking his end has come. I've seen a first time diabetic (an old man) and how scared he was when he had an episode. Its not a joke. Its very depressing actually, and hard to witness people that you love going though this. And losing jobs because of that? How worse can it go??? I'm putting my self in Elliott's place and i can't possibly think that i would be proud about anything i've done. Or feel confident about my self and who i am. I think my mom would be the only person i would count on, that loved me unconditionally, while the rest of the world would be a very scary place for me to survive in. This may be a bit too much drama you may say, but it may not be in Elliott's case. He finaly got a public recognition at the age of 26(?) and realised for the first time in his life that he might be good in something! That there IS something he can be proud of himself, something he is better than others. Something to make things even in his full of insecurities psyche. So please someone tell me. Why should i ever vote for anyone else who has come to AI just to boost their ego even more, when for Elliott, this is a matter of bringing balance in his troubled inside world? While the others seek fame, a fame they would find one way or the other, i think Elliott seeks his true self in this. He seeks to meet the "confident Elliott" the Elliott he missed his whole life living as an unfortunate nobody. A half deaf, short and sick boy with no apparent talents. There is no question in my mind, why this kid is the diamond that he is. It takes a lot of pressure to create a diamond out of carbon. And Elliott was faced with that pressure in his whole life. If it was a competition of characters, the other contestants would just as well withdraw and go home, cause they have nothing to show when compared to Elliott. Winning, for Elliott will be like making things right finaly in an otherwise unjust life. But i can see he is already happy with the dreamy reality he is discovering with his new self, the talented Elliott, the Elliott that is moving people with his voice, the Elliott that is loved. Elliott is a proof for me and everyone of us, that life is full of surprises and it has a great gift in store, for everyone who doesn't give up, but keeps fighting and hoping for the best. And if i, as a single fan have the ability to help just a tiny bit, to offer that gift to Elliott, i'm very proud and honored to do so, cause God, i can't imagine of anyone else in past or future AIs that would deserve that gift more than him... |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 05:03 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (outofmymind:written 5/3/2006 7:23:00 AM When all the fairy dust settles down...) |
When all the fairy dust settles down, when people will get bored of the stage acts, the run around the judges in 10 seconds competition, the jumping and the booty shaking and mic stand relocation around the stage, the "malfunctioning" wardrobes, and the high tones, then they will notice that all along there was this kid who was standing there singing songs, focusing in telling us something through the lyrics, through his wonderfull voice, gently and soft, trying to communicate with the audience with the most straightforward way possible. Its like Elliott is saying "we're alone now and I'm singing this song to you." "Forget about the glittering lights, the stage acts the cheering crowds and everything. I don't have to dance to get you to notice me, cause all i have to say is words from my heart. Words that realy matter to me, so please pay close attention. Look at me, look straight into my eyes cause they don't lie. Hear me sing cause what i sing is important. Its unpretentious. Its personal. It comes from my heart." And for that i HAVE to sit and listen to Elliott cause he takes communication with the audience, with me, very very seriously. He takes his heart very seriously, and he plays no mind games cause he doesn't know any. And i will ignore any other contestant who will hit me with a visual "sledge hammer" just so i notice him. I don't need this. Cause all it takes is for Elliott to give me a pat on the back and say "hey man, i have something to talk to you about." and i will sit and listen to him. And i will even close my eyes and think about what he says. Very carefully. And then my heart will take over and say "Oh my God, Elliott what you say makes so much sense to me, i can relate so much to what you say, as i've felt that way before." And from that moment, i'll share a connection with him. Cause Elliott won't be some singer in AI anymore. He will be my friend. A friend i may never meet, but i know how he thinks and i know we think and feel the same. Thats all that matters to me. Thats whats important. And when all the fairy dust settles down, i hope all others will see it too... |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 05:17 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (AshleyPacka @ Jun 27 2006, 09:06 AM) |
| I am completely floored. I am so surprised that not only were these beautiful posts saved from falling into obscurity, but collected together and pinned for everyone to see. What a wonderful and kind gesture. And speaking on my own behalf, I am very flattered that you chose you quote my letter. Thank you Mike, thank you dgtegirl :glomp: |
Ashley,
Worthy posts are never forgotten and left to obscurity. We love what you wrote, and yes, we pay attention! Thank you for sharing your letter with us and for the whole public to see/read. The only thing, we should have started this thread a long time ago...thanks, Mike, for reminding me again that it was time....
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 05:25 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (BY ETRAINBOSTON2 posted on AI: In a Sometimes Cynical and Shallow World..Elliott Yamin is a Beacon of Light and Hope) |
Elliot Yamin came to this competiton only after being pushed to Boston by his girlfriend and mother. He was a shy, unassuming guy with no real direction in his life. He said it best tonight.."I was Lost." Like many others he had been searching for something to hold onto in his life: a goal or inspiration to kickstart him into doing something with his life. Like all of us have been at one time or another in our lives, Elliott had insecurities that had crippled him at times and blocked him from beginning on his pre-destined path. He wowed the judges with his rich, soulful voice....yet he still seemed to be uncomfortable with himself. Wether it was his physical appearance or his singing ability..he seemed to be doubting himself. When I first heard Elliott's voice I was in the other room not even watching the show..I never had watched it. I heard him singing "In Her Kiss" and I was immmediatley drawn to the fantastic, soulful, rich voice emanating from the television. I came out and said.."Wow! Who is that!" I have been captivated by Elliott Yamin and his personal evolution ever since. Week by week we watched Elliott grow in confidence. We watched him get more comfortable with himself and stop fidgeting so much He started to get some really positive feedback and boy did he run with it. We began to see a metamorphisis right before our eyes. Elliott Yamin was blossoming into a star. What endears Elliott to so many people is not simply the vocal brilliance which he displays with such stunning ease.. It is the spirit. It is that WE can see a little, if not ALOT of ourselves in Elliott Yamin. The struggles, the disease, the feeling of not knowing your place in life. We have all been there. Hell, sometimes I feel like I AM there. We were watching someone on a journey that we ourselves have taken, or are in the process of taking at this moment. We rooted for Elliott..because we saw the inherent goodness, the compassion , the sincerity..we saw all of the things in Elliott that we want to have in ourselves. We saw a h8umble guy who loved and respected his family as well as people he came into contact with every day. If you watch when Elliott meeets somebody, he will immediately greet them with a hug, or a FIRM handshake while looking them straight in the eye. This may seem small, but I can assure you it is little nuances like this that can give you a portal into a person's soul. Elliott Yamin is sincere. He has no pretentions, so he can look you in the eye.. and embrace you. He is all about love and compassion and you can see it in everything he does. Watching Elliott grow has given me such hope for the futrue. I am trying not to be mellowdramatic, but I have 5 and 7 year old girls. In a society where so many entertainers do things just for the almighty dollar and don't give a crap what damage they are doing to the youth of America, it is refreshing to see someone I can be proud to have my children emulate. Elliott Yamin never once compromised himself. He never went away from who he was. When other contestants chose 'flashier" songs..he chose songs that MOVED him...and that he was just itching to get out there to EXPRESS himself and in the process, MOVE YOU! I firmly believe that Elliott cares so deeply about how he can make a positive impression on his fans lives. The Love and Joy this kid has bottled up inside of him his entire life was coming out in buckets every week for us.. So that we could see him..that we could know who he was...and so we could love him and his craft. In all of our lives we have all had setbacks. We have had insecurities wether it be that we don't like our bodies, or our looks, or maybe we have diseases that prevent us from doing things others can... Elliott was in his own way, fighting for all of us. He was showing us that you don't have to be what everyone else wants you to be.. He was being himself, in the beautifally touching Momenst we shared tonight with Elliott was the culmination of all his hard work..He has made it. He has proved what a beautiful human being he is. He has proved that we are all special no matter who or what we are.. and that we are all in thsi together.. Elliott Yamin is truly an embassador for the Human Spirit. I don't know how spiritual everyone is..I am lukewarm myself. I do believe in God..and I believe that he sent Elliott Yamin on this path...to show the goodness of the human spirit and show us all how to love and express our love for one another in a true and pure way. It is not important who won the competition.. The importance lies within the Spirit, soul, and love Elliott Yamin brought to so many millions of people around this world. In a world where the every day grind is enough to make even good people lose sight of what is important, Elliott Yamin has helped us to refocus. God Bless You Elliott Yamin.. You are loved C |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 05:27 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (BY XXBRADY12: "I'm Just a Counter Clerk at the Pharmacy") |
I posted this on the main boards...but per request I have posted it here for Elliott fans. Humbleness: "I'm Just a Counter Clerk at the Pharmacy." Respectfulness: Tipping his hat to the men in uniform. Realness: "Why are you nervous? I'm the same guy you used to work with." Sincerity: His tears. Love and passion for his family and music. Talent: Performance after performance after performance. American Idol: Forever and Always in my heart....Elliott Yamin. Thank you Elliott! |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 05:30 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (BY WPG_VIRGO: "The Winner had been Declared") |
Those of you who are familiar with my blog and my posts in other places known that I enjoy poking fun at c o n s p i r a c y theorists. When confronted by their arguments I often point out that it is important to use solid evidence to carefully lay out and establish connections between two facts before arguing that they are somehow connected. For example, I was born in the same year that Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated, yet by birth and his death are not liked in any way, shape, or form. I also point out to people that logic and common sense cannot go out the window. For example, it is not logical for American Idol to fudge the votes to remove a contestant who did not receive the lowest number of votes because it is in the best interests of the show to have the most popular contestants back again the following week. There is also a human factor involved in the show, and when one person gets lighting that is a bit above average, or better editing from the director, it is not about pushing one contestant over another. Time and again I have argued that AI is not rigged, the winner is not predetermined, and that the system is fair within a structure that is laid out for all to see. However, I am going to backtrack a bit in this post because I think that the winner of American Idol V has already been declared. I cannot believe that I was too wrapped up to notice some very basic facts, and that I missed, or did not pay attention to, the most important elements as they were happening. The winner of American Idol V, hands down, without a doubt, is Elliott's mother. From the first time she appeared on camera supporting her son she began winning over all of our hearts. When the video montage of the family lives of contestants was shown a few weeks back the way that she spoke of Elliott, the love, pride, and joy, moved us beyond belief. Tonight, when the clip of Elliott in his home town was playing, the shot of her sitting in the limo and moved to tears from pride of her son's accomplishments made me and my partner cry. When the cameras were on her after Elliott was eliminated, and she told Elliott that she loves him (tears streaming down his face), as far as I am concerned she became the undisputed star of this season of AI. Next week does not matter one lick as far as I'm concerned, this season's idol has already been crowned. Simon, Paula, Randy, and AI fans have debated whether AI is a singing competition, a talent show, a dancing competition, a populatity contest, or an election. It is none of those things. It is about love, loyatly, class, pride, and pure emotion that can only come from the deepest part of a person's heart and soul. The winner has been declared by a landslide, the final was not even close. Congratulations to Ms. Yamin, you are my Idol this year |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 05:54 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (THwrites: Elliott's Departure From AI---Let's Go Even Deeper What His Leaving Really Says) |
I've really been giving this matter a lot of thought lately, because I'm still licking my wounds over it. However, I did some soul searching to find out why Elliott's departure has so upset me. And the answer was surprising. As an aside, let me say that I'm SO GLAD he's out of there. He will have bigger and better opportunities now. So I'm genuinely happy for him. He's gonna be HUGE, my friends! Now, in terms of American Idol and what happened with Elliott .... First let me preface my remarks by saying Elliott is like every common person. You, me, Uncle Willie, Aunt Sally ... everybody who exists in the real world. Like you, me, Uncle Willie and Aunt Sally, Elliott looks like every man on the street. He's no Tom Cruise. He's no George Clooney. Yet he represents the vast majority of Americans who live simple and unassuming lives. So when the "Hollywood machine" rejected Elliott (let's face it, that's what they did) I took it personally. How could I not, considering what Elliott represents in my mind? Therefore, when you add it all up, they basically rejected ME, YOU and EVERYBODY who lives outside of their "special" and "priviledged" world. When they booted Elliott, they were basically saying, YOU, THwrites and Uncle Willie, Aunt Sally and the rest of the peasants, don't measure up to our HIGH standards. Yes, you can sing, but that's not enough. You THwrites along with the rest of the plain Janes and Joes of America, can never belong in our beautiful world. It doesn't matter how talented you are. Doesn't matter how sweet you are. Doesn't matter how much of a decent human being you are. That stuff is silly. Beauty and superficiality are what we're looking for. You're not good enough to belong in our clique. IOW, we're better than you. While I know this isn't true, the fact that they think this is what P's me off. It stinks of the old High School nonsense of being in the "in" crowd. It's elitism to the extreem. So when they sent Elliott home they sent us all home. That's why I think I took his leaving so personally. That's why I took all the slights against him so personally. That's why I defended him so vigorously. Because he represented people just like ME. Even more than AI, Hollywood as a whole disgusts me now. So much so that I've started changing some of my bad habits. I don't buy tabloids anymore because I couldn't care less about how those people live their lives. They've been out of touch with us for decades. Proof of this can be found in the filth they try to shove down our throats in the movie theater. I say all this to say that this is why I think my own personal reaction to Elliott's leaving has been so strong. When they dissed Elliott, they dissed us all. This post has been edited by THwrites on May 19 2006, 07:56 PM |
mcornelio - June 27, 2006 06:02 PM (GMT)
To: lindagt: Thanks for tracking this down for me.
To: the OP (memberoftheEtribe): Thank you for writing and sharing this beautiful letter.
To: the OP (memberoftheEtribe): Thank you for writing and sharing this beautiful letter.
| QUOTE (lindagt) |
Here it is - I feel so guilty that I don't remember the poster's name - claim it if it was yours. I just remember she wanted to post it and didn't know how and I was so anxious to post for her, I didn't remember her name. Letter- Elliott you make me a better woman This letter was posted on the E Train board and the poster didn’t know how to get it here, so I am posting for her. |
| QUOTE (memberoftheEtribe (we think)) |
| Elliott, I have sat back and read these message boards and watched and listened to all your interviews for too long. It is finally time for me to muster up the courage to write. I understand why Paula was so moved by you. Since learning of you I have become a better woman, a better wife and a better mother. I know, I know it all sounds so cliche’ but hear me out. At first I was watching American Idol just as a spectator. Like so many after a few rounds your voice and your humble grace made it impossible for me to sit back and just be a spectator and I was compelled to vote…not once but for the whole two hours straight. Week after week as I learned via message boards and what little tidbits you mention on the show of your story I started to get more and more interested and yes I admit starting crushing on you a little. I listened to your music in my car so much my 4 year old son even asked me “why did Elliot get kicked off when he sings about love and hugging?” All this was in secret, of course, I am a married woman 10 years your senior not a teenager for God’s sake. But then it happened….As I listened to your songs I suddenly felt passionately in love with my husband. Like you he had a hard time in school, bounced around after high school and when I met him he was full of potential. Today he is a successful self made man. I have always respected him for what he has become despite his humble beginnings, but all of a sudden I became overwhelmed with my love for him as I listened to your songs. It doesn’t stop there. I have a whole new perspective on being a Mom too. No longer am I going to push them to be perfect model citizens and worry if they are not well rounded but rather help them to find what they are truly passionate about in life. The other day I was talking to my teenage stepson who has reached a very awkward stage, spends more time with his friends and on his cell phone than talking to his parents. You know the drill. I found myself really putting myself in his shoes when we were talking and our conversation went from daily logistics to how he felt about his appearance, what he wanted out of life, girls the whole enchilada. Wow! We had the best conversation of our lives. It doesn’t stop there. Elliot, I have never been so much better for having never met someone in my life and so is my family! Of course I would love to meet you in person (San Jose on August 30th) to thank you for making such a difference in my life! You deserve the best and I know the phrase “good things happen to good people” was coined for you. Thankyou for being such a huge inspiration in my life! |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 06:03 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (Carlita The Stevie Wonder Inspiration Stevie's influence on Elliot's music: posted Jun 17 2006 10:29 PM under The Music Thread) |
There's been a lot of talk about Donny Hathaway's influence on Elliott's song choices and singing style, but I've not read much about the Stevie Wonder influence. Stevie Wonder is one of my all time favorite artist's. I love his voice and his gentleness. To me, he and his music convey truth, light, justice, and love in the true sense of the word. So many times when I'm listening to Elliott sing, he hits notes that sound almost exaCTLY like Stevie. I can't explain why, but I'm sure the musicians out there can Among many other things, my new found devotion to "all things Elliott" has inspired me to pull out my Stevie Wonder CDs and give them another listen. One of my favorite albums is Songs in the Key of Life (Knocks Me Off My Feet is on one of the songs on the album.) There's another song on the album named "As" which I think is one of the most uplifting, love-filled, spiritual songs I've ever heard. If you've never heard it you might want to check it out. I don't know how to attach it here or I would. Of course, I'm thinking Elliott could bring his "special something" to it, as well. There's one verse that I listen to over and over again, that Stevie growls, in an un-Stevie-like way, that goes like this: "We all know sometimes life's pains and troubles can make you wish you were born in another time and place But you can bet your life times that and twice its double that God knew exactly where he wanted you to be placed. So make sure when you say you're in it but not of it, you're not helping to make this world a place sometimes called Hell. Change your words into truth and then change that truth into love, and maybe our children's grandchildren and their great grandchilden can tell." I just wanted to share that with some other folks that might appriciate it. |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 06:13 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (melanieaj posted on Jun 13 2006 08:36 PM under The Music Thread: Have Experienced A Revelation! Elliott's SSB Touched My Soul Tonight) |
Hello, Alll I haven't posted here a lot but I am a die-hard Elliott fan. I have to describe my experience just now listening again to Elliott sing the SSB: I had just listened to Michael McDonald sing the SSB at the NBA game tonight and I felt he did a fine job, even though I was not particuarly moved by it. I was particularly interested to hear how he sounded as his voice is somewhat similar to Elliott's. So right after MM finished I played my tape of Elliott's rendition. I have to admit when I first heard Elliott's version Sunday night, I did not particularly like it as I have always favored the traditional version. But when I replayed it tonight, I felt the SOUL in it, and tears came to my eyes at the end. This is a big deal to me as I very rarely get teary eyed over ANY song. So, Elliott you rocked my SOUL tonight! THANK YOU!! |
mcornelio - June 27, 2006 06:17 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (myhusbandisafantoo) |
| Hello to all my wonderful new Elliott friends. This posting is part tongue in cheek… and partly serious, ‘cos I’m beginning to think I’m going ever so slight crazy!! Is there a doctor in the house? Do you think I need professional help? Please read on and let me know, reasure me that I don’t need to be locked up! LBE… Life Before Elliott: My life was full of the kind of worries and problems we all face in life. My husband has been very sick over the last three years, had to retire from our business, so I’ve had to take over. I won’t bore you with any other details but you can use your imagination. Suffice to say, other than the joys that my grandsons give me, the last few years has not been much fun! L.A.E… Life After Elliott: Watching American Idol has always been a distraction over the years, but this year it turned into something different. I REALLY looked forward to it every week. I just couldn’t believe the joy Elliott gave me every time I heard him sing. I just felt so proud of him. When the fateful day came I felt so completely and utterly crushed. Totally lost. I just couldn’t understand the powerful feelings I was having. Would I ever hear his beautiful voice again? In desperation I resorted to the Internet. And I had NEVER googled anyone in my life before. I began searching for some validation that I wasn't going completely nuts! I felt the need to somehow justify my emotional reaction to his departure from the show and from what I thought then, from my life. Little did I know what I would find out there on the worldwide web! It’s been an incredible journey. But now I have a serious problem. I just cannot stop thinking about him, listening to him, watching his video clips. What is wrong with me? I’ve always been very balanced. I never screamed at concerts, OK I used to kiss Paul McCartney every night before bed, but I went into my brother’s room to do it! I didn’t want to wreck the beautiful wallpaper my mum had put up in my room. I e-mailed my brother in the UK the other day and asked him if he could help me try to put things into perspective. His reply was very sweet. “Well I can see how you could be smitten with this guy, Lorn. As to my thoughts about your 'obsession' I say brilliant! Go for it! I'm really glad you've found something outside your family and work that you are really passionate about and if it’s a guy with talent, so much the better. The beauty about music is that it can be with you 24hrs a day - treat yourself to an ipod! As for the Internet, well it’s an incredible resource that not only allows you to follow your dreams but also talk to others that share them. What can be better than that?” I guess I’m pretty lucky that my husband seems to understand too – hence my user name. In fact, when I got home from work yesterday he was so thrilled to tell me that he’d overheard an elderly couple in the pharmacy talking about Elliott saying how wonderful he was, he said he almost butted in to tell them how I felt. It was so adorable! So he’s often in bed by 8 in the evening leaving me to my Elliott fix! So why do I still worry? Why does this whole thing still embarrass me? When my daughter saw the cute cover I made for Elliott’s CD – it’s just adorable! - she just shook her head with a very puzzled look as if to say, “Mother, you are weird!” Hey, there are a couple of benefits though to my current situation. I no longer take Xanax, so that’s good. And I’m losing weight rapidly. It’s the new “Elliott diet”. I’m busy on my computer that I don’t even thinking about snacking. Thanks for listening guys! I REALLY needed to get this off my chest. :wub: |
mcornelio - June 27, 2006 06:19 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (myhusbandisafantoo) |
| I’ve discovered the strangest thing and you’re all going to think I’m really weird… I love chocolate... and have probably always eaten far too much of it. Even though I know deep down inside it would never really satisfy whatever sensation I was seeking. But since Elliott came into my life I honestly haven't felt the need for that certain something I was looking for... I feel more fulfilled. It's quite a phenomenon. :wub: :wub: :wub: I would love Elliott to know just how much my life seems richer now. How he’s affected us all. It’s sometimes so hard to put into words just how I feel, but I think I’m almost there. Even listening to music again is different for some reason; I mean really listening to it. Artists that I thought were good now pale in comparison. They just seem to go through the motions... just sing the notes. Now it's like Elliott has completely heightened ALL my senses, turned the volume up on them somehow. That's how I feel. Boy, a therapist would have a field day with me! :woot: |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 06:29 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (Juicesmom posted May 23 2006 05:45 PM American Idol: With Elliott Yamin Gone Easy Win for Taylor Hicks: By Shirley Kennedy May 23 2006) |
| New Elliott Article, My latest installment.... I feel so much better; I have finally figured things out. American Idol is a massive scam to get us to act like trained seals. Well, this seal is returning to the water, having grown weary of the game. I have felt for some time that Taylor Hicks was the Chosen One, but now, I’m not so sure. Let me just say that I find it very hard to believe that Katharine had more votes than Elliott, let alone Chris. If you pay close attention to the top three’s homecoming trips, the picture becomes startlingly clear. Turnoout should mean an easy Taylor win with Elliott gone Taylor visited a radio station, a television station, participated in a parade, and performed at a local mall, all of which were attended by his fans. I don’t know the numbers for his other venues, but I do know that approximately 12,000 people attended the mall function. Elliott visited a radio station, the pharmacy where he used to work, participated in a parade, visited the James Center, and threw out the first pitch at the Diamond. He also visited the radio station where he formerly worked as “E-double.” The radio stations and pharmacy were packed with people, 4,000 to 5,000 attended the James Center function, and 12,000 visited the Diamond. Both Elliott and Taylor were welcomed by the both the mayors of their home cities and the governors of their states. Now, let’s look at Katharine’s homecoming. She visited Good Day L.A. and a radio station, and not one fan waited outside of either of these venues. She visited her old high school, where approximately 200 people attended in her support. Then, she went home. No stadium, no mall, no crowds, and I guess the “Governator” was too busy. Who’s voting for her? Likely, nowhere near as many as voted for Chris and Elliott. Elliott’s fan base now rivals Taylor’s, yet Katharine received more votes last week. If anyone still believes this show to be on the up-and-up, I have some prime swampland in Florida for your purchasing consideration. And the so-called close votes on Wednesday? A sham—just like the rest of this show, as I also find it very hard to believe that 50 million votes can be so equally divided. I do have to give the producers of this show their props, though: They are the true masters of manipulation. I wanted to be bitter about Elliott’s elimination; then, I listened to Elliott’s exit press conference call: “What’s to be upset about? This is the best thing I’ve ever done in my life.” He went out at the right time, in the right way, and with all the class that is Elliott Yamin. His final performance was dazzling, leaving many to wonder why this fabulous singer was leaving the competition prior to taking the title. He made the show look like a complete joke at that moment. Elliott, however, is nothing but gracious and extremely grateful for the time he was given to wow the American public. And “wow” he did. During Elliott’s post-Idol conference call, his upbeat outlook is rather incredible, given the way that the show treated him as pretty much a non-entity. He seems a wise young man; he knows what will come of his appearance on this show, regardless of what The Powers That Be think of him. But, how can you think anything but positive thoughts about this guy? He smiled throughout the entire show–through the critiques, both positive and negative, through the unjustified, nasty comments about his looks, through the unpardonable treatment he received from the producers and judges on this show; through it all, he came out smiling. His homecoming video is the best I’ve ever seen on this show in four years. His true gratitude for all he has been given shows in everything he does. When his tears began to flow during the video feed, my sister cried with him. Likely, much of the American viewing audience cried with him. He seems such a beautiful soul; that beauty could not have been better displayed than on Wednesday night. Elliott’s take on his elimination continues to display the beauty of his soul: “I felt the opposite of bitter, upset, and disappointed. There were all these preconceived notions from people, how they thought I must have been feeling, but I’m just honored. It was a great way to go and a great way to celebrate.” Yes, Elliott, it truly was. One of the things that I took from Elliott’s final performance was his determination to remain true to himself. I don’t think Clive Davis cares much about that. With both Ruben Studdard and Bo Bice, Clive Davis made both into different artists than those we learned to love on the show. Ruben was taken from soulful balladeer to hip-hop drivel while Bo, the wonderful southern rocker I fell madly for, was turned into Bon Jovi Lite. While Davis was all too happy to take the stage to crow about the number of albums sold by both of these artists, he likely doesn’t know (and probably doesn’t care) that the majority of people who purchased these CDs are disappointed in them. My sister doesn’t even know where her Ruben Studdard CD is these days, and I spend way more time listening to Bo Bice and Sugar Money than I do the “RCA Bo.” I’ve heard rumors that Idol plans to offer consolation recording contracts to Chris Daughtry and Paris Bennett. Chris is crazy if he takes it. That “dawg” doesn’t need their bone. He stayed true to himself throughout the competition, which some believe resulted in his elimination, but he won’t be able to do that on a Clive Davis production. Don’t do it, Chris. They used you to rope us in, and now, they want you to be their cash cow while two performers with inferior skills vie for the title. You didn’t win, and you didn’t come in second; get out while you can. I’m glad Clive Davis isn’t interested in Elliott. I want Elliott to record music that continues to reveal himself to his fans, that self that we have all grown to love—his sensitivity, his heart on his sleeve, the whole nine. That’s what we want from Elliott, and that is what is going to make Elliott a huge star, despite American Idol and Clive Davis. While I have often heard Elliott’s song choices referred to as “obscure,” I see them as unique. Those choices reflect who Elliot is, both as a person and as an artist. When he dredges some old soul song up from my past, I am instantly transported to earlier years. I can’t tell you the last time I thought about old soul music, let alone pulled it out to listen (not that I have a turntable these days); Elliott makes me want to do that. He makes old songs new again, and he makes me young again. When he sang “I Believe To My Soul,” I was back at the sock-hop. Even though I have enjoyed Elliott’s music transporting me to a different time and place, I cannot wait to hear Elliott wrap those fabulous vocals around new music. You see, unlike the powers that be at AI, I see the potential in this man; I see people around the world loving him and his musical stylings; I see a true artist, one who is true to his art and to what he believes. In fact, I see beyond his potential—I see a unique new star on the horizon. “Before the contest started, I was lost, still trying to find my way as a human being, as an employee, all of the above. I have grown a lot in confidence. I’ve accomplished what I set out to do. I’ve actually followed through with something in my life. I’m a better man for it. It’s amazing to know how many people I’ve touched, that I’ve inspired.” Yes, he has inspired many. He has inspired me to be a better person, and part of being a better person is speaking out when life is purposely made unfair. Idol needs to learn to play fair; the fans make the show, not the other way around. I dare say that I am not the only former fan of American Idol. When enough of us get fed up, the non-stop flow of money will do just that, and this show will go with it. I want to leave The Powers That Be with a message, just in case they didn’t get it when Elliott sang his farewell on Wednesday: One of these days, and it won’t be long, You’re gonna look for me and I’ll be gone. ‘Cause I believe (I believe, yes I believe) I say I believe right now (I believe, yes I believe) Well I believe to my soul now, You’re trying to make a fool of me (I believe it, I believe it) American Idol, we’re no fools; one day, we’ll all be gone. Who then will Simon kiss off the day before the alleged votes have even been placed, let alone tallied? It won’t be “that other guy,” when “you know [his] name is Elliott Yamin.” Remember that Donny Hathaway CD that Elliott helped to dredge from the depths of obscurity? It currently sits at #29 overall, #1 in soul, and #2 in R&B. Believe me when I say this guy is going to be huge. The compilation CD hasn’t even been released, yet Elliott’s rendition of “Moody’s Mood For Love” is already on the airplay charts. Very rarely have I seen an artist who possesses the ability to cross racial barriers, cultural barriers, age barriers, religious barriers—all barriers—with his music. That artist is Elliott Yamin. Remember his name; you will be hearing it again. |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 06:40 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (ohioguy45780 posted on June 12 2006 under The Man Thread:Elliott Yamin: Yep he's my American Idol) |
I just want to say that I enjoy Elliott's music, first and foremost, and love the soul that the boy exudes. He has been a breath of fresh air for my ears, and I have enjoyed virtually every one of his performances. I truly consider him one of the BEST singers I have ever heard. I cannot think of a better role model or a better "Idol" we could have. Although I know most of us could NEVER know the entirety of the guy, I feel that we get a magnificent glimpse of what he is all about. Yeah, that's idolization; and I don't pretend to know the 'real' him, but I'll take the offer I'm presented and sleep soundly on the fact that I'm being shown the genuine article. There was much negativity on these boards last night, to the point I felt ashamed. I make a pledge to never nit pick or tear apart each performance, or worry over his presentation. We all must realize no one is perfect, that no vocal performance is going to be utterly flawless, and that what we say can and does matter. While I think constructive criticism is ok, outright destructive comments should be tabled, I know it's a small minority, but some of the comments were nasty and insufferable. The E-Train should be about heart and soul, first and foremost. Negativity is never a part of that. ELLIOTT'S PERFORMANCE LAST NIGHT AT THE NBA GAME has been praised by the media, both in Dallas and Nationally. He did us proud! Now, why can't we show the love back to him? We were too quick to judge..listen again. LISTEN. Feel the music. Feel the power. Feel the voice. You may find a different perspective when you FEEL the love and heart that the kid put into that song. Perfect? Nah. But close enough for me. THIS WAS A MAJOR EVENT FOR ELLIOTT. It got him noticed BEYOND American Idol. And if anyone thought Elliott was the "forgotten" one, THINK AGAIN. The crowd WENT WILD. They KNEW who he was, and they LOVED HIM. He had to hesistate to start, they wouldn't quiet. Even the announcer said "what about that?!" at the end. He was AMAZED. The audience was amazed. The media was amazed. Can the E-Train be amazed, as well? AMERICA LOVES HIM. Are we able to share him? The boy's a major talent, he has an amazing voice, he has an amazing future ahead of him. Let's hope he continues to amaze us for years to come. And everyone deserves the inspiration. Everyone deserves to be amazed. ******* We love ya, Elliott. Spread the word. |
TxRangerette - June 27, 2006 07:09 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (IBelieveToMySoul wrote this song and posted on May 19 2006 11:30 PM ) |
"God Bless Elliott Yamin" [Verse 1] Tonight Elliott left AI But not his hopes of being a star And we'll have to swallow our tears Cause we know this guy is going to go far I know he still thanks his God above To be Elliott Yamin today 'Cause his talent still stands far and above And they can't take that away [Chorus] And I'm proud to be a Yaminion Where at least I can hear the voice of E And I won't forget the man who sang Who gave life to Tuesday eve And I gladly stand up at the record store And buy his CD today 'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this man! God Bless Elliott Yamin [Verse 2] From the lakes of Minnesota To the hills of Tennessee Across the plains of Texas From sea to shining sea From Detroit down to Houston And New York to LA There's pride in every Yaminion's heart And it's time we stand and say: [Chorus] And I'm proud to be a Yaminion Where at least I can hear the voice of E And I won't forget the man who sang Who gave life to Tuesday eve And I gladly stand up at the record store And buy his CD today 'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this man! God Bless Elliott Yamin |
mcornelio - June 27, 2006 07:15 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (realitymom @ Jun 27 2006, 05:17 AM) |