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Former American Idol contestants Adam Lambert and James Durbin — neither of whom won the crown during their respective seasons — had some parting words for one another and a possible feud is brewing. Durbin was voted off last week, and Lambert, seen here yesterday (May 17) wearing thigh high boots and leopard printed pants, told The Hollywood Reporter that he was tiring of Durbin as the competition wound down. Ouch!
“I think he’s got talent and passion 100 percent,” Glambert says, “but I feel like he’s trying way too hard. Also, his niche is so limited with the metal. When he did that “Heavy Metal” song (by Sammy Hagar), James was note-perfect. He was on pitch, which is usually kind of an issue, and I think he sounded really good, but it felt like a copycat. I didn’t feel like I was seeing an original artist yet. And I’m not saying he doesn’t have that in him, but it hasn’t been showing.”
PHOTOS: Adam Lambert Sports Some New Facial Hair
When Durbin talked to MTV this week (watch the video after the jump), they brought it up, of course, but Durbin shrugged it off. “I was nothing (but) nice to that guy,” he said. “And, you know, he decided to take it to a different level. Whatever.”
He did attempt to put some distance between himself and Lambert, though. “I don’t know what the comparison’s all about,” Durbin said. “He sings pop and electronic, and I sing rock and metal.”
So is this just sour grapes on Adam’s part? Let us know what you think by tweeting us at @socialitelife or posting to our Facebook page.
Adam is entitled to his opinion but James is also entitled to his. The interviewer wanted a combative response and James didn’t fall into his trap by giving him one, he just dismissed the issue and that IMO was smart. And no I don’t James should care about what Adam thinks, Adam isn’t the be all and end all in the music biz.
While James clearly isn’t interested in a fight with Adam, IMO he took the high road here and wins this round.
James who? Adam is AMAZING!
What????????? You dont Know James Durbin?????????????? Well why did you Comment??? James is way better than Adam . Jams took the High road. James is the Bigger Man.
There is no “round”. Adam wasn’t interested in a fight with James either, he was answering a question with an honest opinion, which James and his fans obviously took badly.
Adam was asked about James Durbin and gave an honest answer back, which is more than the AI judges have done. I agree 100% with Adam about James Durbin. He is pitchy and didn’t show any originality. Yes, he may be entertaining to some and if you don’t care about the quality of James’ vocals then more power to him and his fans.
Actually I still struggle to make sense of Adam’s comments and still can’t see exactly how they are constructive, as he only mentioned one of James performances – Heavy Metal by Sammy Hagar. He said this performance felt like a “copycat”, firstly that is a term I usually hear from children not adults. Secondly exactly who was James copying? I don’t recall anyone before James performing metal on Idol, let alone this song accompanied by Zakk Wylde complete with killer guitar solo – that was an Idol first. Thirdly if “copycat” refers to the original artist (Sammy Hagar) then I’m sorry but Adam is wrong. I’ve heard the original and James didn’t sing it like Hagar, James actually put a lot more range into his vocal than Hagar did and his recording of this song is fantastic and current sounding.
That said I’m not surprised that James didn’t take Adam’s comments seriously.
Completely agree with all your points, Alex.
I totally agree with you. The judges this year sucks big time. They can’t give good criticism. Not giving the contestants good critic will only hurt them in the long run. And for those who doesn’t really understand the context of what was said do research first. And yes, i do welcome X Factor. About time we hear some honest comments.
Yeah, Steven Tyler is especially useless, I don’t think he has said anything negative or constructive all season. I thought Lopez would be the softy after seeing all her crying during the contestant search. And Jackson is definitely no Simon, but the only one who will say anything a little bit negative.
I agree with you 100%. I guess honesty is only accepted when people agree.
Adam has ZERO originality, so he shouldn’t be talking about that topic.
Adam copied his whole style from Bill Kaulitz!
How stupid. Adam went with his look early twenties when Bill was about 12. Bill then had lions maned hair and Adam was emo and Elvis. Then suddenly Bill went Elvis. But Adam is beautiful and Bill is just a skinny boy who can’t dance. No comparison.
Uh, Sarah is right…. Adam’s been wearing nail polish, eye liner and black hair since Bill was a teenager. And actually, they look nothing alike in terms of style. Both wearing eyeliner doesn’t equal “copying” someone’s style.
I love Adam and James. ADAM ADAM ADAM!! be nice. Jealousy never gets you anywhere! Remember Most of us that love James also are fans of yours. SO please be careful. A nice sincere aplogy is needed. James you are my AMerican Idol. I tried forever to get thru when voting but like many others YOUR line was busy. This is why the outcome is so shocking and sad. I will be at your concert. Can hardly wait!! LOVE to you and your family!
Adam has gold and platinum album and singles in the US and internationally. Adam had a sold out headlining tour in the US and internationally. Adam has won 1 award in Canada, 2 in Germany, 3 in Australia, 1 in Russia, Best pop/rock album in Hungry. Has been nominated for a Grammy and nominated in Finland and Japan. Adam is playing at a rock festival in Russia in a few weeks. Adam is sexy and beautiful. James sang out of tune and came in 4th on Idol. Yeah, you are right Adam is jealous. NOT
For goodness sake. No need for catty remarks from anyone. To sit there and spout on about all that Adam has done is well and good. Bravo Bert. By the way, as an aside, where is “Hungry”? You said that he has a pop/rock album there? My point is that Adam is established now after several years and James is just starting. Why compare all of those successes to the 22 year old. Isn’t Adam close to 30? Why is there so much kicking of this young man. Kick a man when he’s down. Seems like way too many people are that way now sadly. I used to like Adam until I saw his Twitter posts. He certainly does have a right to his opinion;HOWEVER, that is tactless and insensitive to criticize a fellow artist while they are in a competition, especially when Adam has a large following. And even more tactless when the competition the young man is in, is the same one, different season that he was in. Fine and dandy after the votes are all cast, the winner is declared and it’s over. Then spew your criticism so that it doesn’t hurt anyone. However, Adam does seem to have that catty side about him for whatever reason in my very humble opinion and it’s distasteful. Not nice.
I don’t see why Adam should wait to give his opinion til after the voting. What difference does it make? Most of Adam’s fans didn’t like Durbin anyway so it’s not like Adam’s opinion changed anything for them. Also I think you are giving Adam’s opinion SPECIAL POWERS OF PERSUASION in general. If someone changed their vote because of what Adam said they were hardly a lock for James in the first place!
He was asked. He answered honestly and gave criticism that James would have done well to hear from the judges. What he said was pretty mild, so if James and his fans can’t take it then oh man life is gonna get tough from here on in. Just wait til it’s professional reviewers talking about his music. Adam was a gentleman in comparison to some of them…
James only hit 50% of the notes he aimed for, his upper register tone was screechy, his lower register was as weak as a kitten.
Adam wasn’t tactless and insensitive. Tactless and insensitive would be to say that James only got so far in the competition because of his sob worthy backstory and people felt sorry for him. Plus he made good TV for Idol because he was an unrepresented genre and they could exploit him. None of these reasons are going to matter where it counts in him getting enough radio airplay or sales to survive in the industry.
I agree with you, totally. Huge Adam fan, but love James, too, and for entirely different reasons. I do want Adam to stay the nice man he was when he unjustly lost to Kris Allen but was still wonderful about congratulating and supporting him. I want that Adam back.
I don’t think that Adam has gone anywhere. Did you see that he called James talented and he thinks there is a true artist in him? Why are people only focusing on the negative aspect of what he said?
It isn’t doing James any favours in the long run to keep telling him he’s amazing when sometimes he’s not. How can he grow? Some of his idol performances I thought were really good and others were a hot mess especially vocally. But the judges universally praised him so he has no idea. If I was a hard-core James fan I would be pissed as hell at the judges for selling his talent short. He could have gone all the way to the end with decent critiques and guidance. Pitch, tone and support for his lower register are all things that can be much improved with good vocal training. Instead of pointing these things out so he could work on them, they patted him on the head and smiled. Seriously that’s the injustice, not Adam saying as much.
Why is the media making a big deal out of this? A feud – hardly! Nothing like getting fans of both all riled up! Both guys are entitled to their opinion and neither deserves to be bashed by stirred up fans over it as the comments were very tame.
Agreed, James especially is not interested in feuding with Adam as his response was tactful and dismissive. Adam comments I think were edited by the publisher to generate a buzz, again reason why James shouldn’t take them seriously.
You might want to read them on Adam’s twitter. I went there after I saw all of this buzz and word for word. Sorry.
I don’t understand why Adam’s comments would even CREATE a buzz in the first place….Adam didn’t say anything mean. He simply expessed his honest opinion in response to the question he was asked.
Was rooting for Adam then and James now. Am dissapointed that Adam chose to be negative about James or any other aspiring individual. Adam – concentrate more on your attire and presentation – and be sensitive with constructive criticism of others. You and James are alike in some ways – is that why you tired of him?
Can you show me where Adams comments are hurtful, personal or unconstructive please?
Oh yeah you can’t. Nothing Adam said was bad. Just not what James’s fans wanted to hear. Well sorry but we are each entitled to our opinion and Adams is apparently newsworthy. I don’t think Adam was misquoted at all but as always the media will spin it as they see fit. i.e. the feud.
oh and James didn’t take the high moral ground. His “I was only ever nice to Adam” comment is pathetic. Adam wasn’t nasty to James and it’s not like they are best buds or anything. What does James think this is kindergarten? Now that he is out of the idol bubble many more people are going to have opinions on his singing. Or at least so James should hope, because the alternative is that NO1CURR.
To the contrary, I don’t see anything Adam said that was meant to be hurtful…. He responded tactfully to a question with his honest opinion. If James can’t deal with other people voicing their opinions of him, then he is certainly NOT ready to be a figure in the music industry.
This is ridiculous. Adam has absolutely no reason to be jealous of James, and he was not “dissing” James – he was asked about James, and responded by providing what the judges this season have not, namely constructive criticism. Not gratuitous nastiness, not a potshot for the sake of a potshot – constructive criticism. Adam has been receiving critiques since he first stepped onstage at age 10, he’s used to it, and he recognizes its value. Perhaps James and his fans should do the same. If the judges had done more than slobber over everything James did – if they’d pointed out when he was being less than original, or when his stage antics compromised his vocals (which they did, on more than one occasion) – maybe James would be in the Top Three right now.
Actually I still struggle to make sense of Adam’s comments and still can’t see exactly how they are constructive, as he only mentioned one of James performances – Heavy Metal by Sammy Hagar. He said this performance felt like a “copycat”, firstly that is a term I usually hear from children not adults. Secondly exactly who was James copying? I don’t recall anyone before James performing metal on Idol, let alone this song accompanied by Zakk Wylde complete with killer guitar solo – that was an Idol first. Thirdly if “copycat” refers to the original artist (Sammy Hagar) then I’m sorry but Adam is wrong. I’ve heard the original and James didn’t sing it like Hagar, James actually put a lot more range into his vocal than Hagar did and his recording of this song is fantastic and current sounding.
That said I’m not surprised that James didn’t take Adam’s comments seriously.
Yes, exactly!!! Look who is in the Top Three Right Now???Two decent, not great country singers and Haley who screams most of the time. All three together do not equal the talent that James has. He was great each and every time he performed! I didn’t think I liked metal till I watched and listened to James.
James should be still in the competition! More than that he should be THE AMERICAN IDOL!!! But, as always there are always suspicions as to whether these things are fixed according to who ABC really wants to see win. James was the favorite to win and he should have won. But, all and all what a man he is! In all his interviews since he was voted off he has never once said a bad thing about anyone. He is grateful and gracious. He is a real gentlemen and has a great heart along with all this talent!!! Way to go James!!!
From the way Adam out his comments, it feels to me as if he was just giving an honest opinion about James’ performance in response to a reporter’s question. However, the media and public can takes such comments more seriously than intended. Thats why Adam followed up the question with a comment on twitter noting that opinions arent a big deal. James’ comment suggests he was bothered by Adam’s comment, contrary to your headline. What does it mean to say: “he [Adam] took it to another level”? it was just an opinion james, relax!
Actually James isn’t the least bothered, he “casually shrugged” when answering and that is not an expression of upset. He further ended his statement with “whatever”. “Taking it to a different level”, while not a great choice of words (remember he’s autistic so being good with words is probably a struggle for him), I get what he means. Things between James and Adam, and more importantly their fanbases, were cordial prior to the things Adam said. James is simply holding Adam responsible for his own words and any repercussions that follow, as he should.
LOL where have you been? Adam’s fanbase has not been cordial towards James since James compared himself to Adam in the early idol rounds. I know it might be part of his Aspergers but James does come across as totally arrogant sometimes.
I have to agree with adam, james was not all that original and I was getting tired of hearing him do his scream. The judges did not do james any favors by making him seem he was so great. He does have a very good voice and I think he will make a good heavy metal album, however this fan base is limited. I wish him luck.
Here’s an idea: how about the contestants, including James, just be themselves. It’s rather ironic that Adam criticizes James most identifying performance (Heavy Metal) yet supports Haley who still doesn’t know who she is as an artist.
Kelly Clarkson also supports Haley. She tweeted about it. There are other idols as well.
I’m aware of this. Haley does have the most distinctive voice of the contestants in the pop industry but not in the jazz industry. I have no idea how she’ll do post idol. She’s best at contemporary pop jazz and while we already have Amy Winehouse & Duffy, they’re British not American so I guess there’s room for her. Where James is concerned there is no one in today’s mainstream rock scene with a voice like his. And no Adam doesn’t count cause his music is electro-pop not rock.
If someone is going to talk about originality, it should be someone else, not Adam. ADAM LAMBERT is a big COPYCAT, he copied and still copies Bill Kaulitz’s style!
Bill Kaulitz was a teenager when Adam adopted his style in his early 20′s…. Adam didn’t copy anyone. Look at any cabaret video from that era. Adam looked the same as he does now, and no one even knew who Kaulitz was.
How did Adam diss James? Is anyone here aware of James’ Youtube mumblings about how he has never heard Adam hit a particular note,yet he can reach it? This type of bragging at the beginning of Idol. Why would he say something that could completely turn off an already existing faithful fan base. I guess he has a pretty good excuse,according to his fans,in the form of Tourettes and autism…..right?
Give me a break. Adam is known for giving constructive criticism and has praised James along the way. He doesn’t have tourettes or autism so he doesn’t have an excuse,except that he is one honest son-of-a-gun!! If the judges gave honest backbone critiques,James would have had a taste of humble pie and have taken his ‘voting-off’ with more humility. Nope. Instead he decided to use the platform to try and make us believe he was the innovator of ‘different,unique’. That is what Adam Lambert is known for……opening the doors for James to be different.
James will undoubtedly have a career,however he better surround himself with more honest,forthright people who will help him learn how to handle setbacks…….he’s in for a bumpy ride if he can’t handle criticism so early on in his life outside of the protective Idol bubble!!
Just ask Adam Lambert what taking criticism (and hatred) feels like!!
Would you please post the links to those Youtubes? I sincerely would like to hear those. This is the first I’ve heard it mentioned.
Adam was not being the least bit disrespectful. His view merely mirrors what also happened with many professional music critcs: initially impressed with James until they realized he lacked origniality and was inconsistent with his vocal performances. Actually, there was some serious deterioriation going on toward the end with getting off key frequently and yet getting positive spin instead of constructive criticism from the judges … then again, James demonstrated that he did not accept advice very well.
James has never ignored Jimmy Iovine’s advice and only had one disagreement with him. Interesting that when he did disagree (very respectfully) he gave what was possibly his most mind blowing performance (Heavy Metal), yet when he agreed with Jimmy “100%” on his 30 STM song it ended up being his worst vocal.
Used to be a big fan of Adam Lambert when he was on American Idol, he sang well and he seemed to be a sincere person. However, he seems very different now, he always criticizes badly about others and his performance on stage was too exotic. Dont like him anymore. I’m a fan of James Durbin now, he seems to be a genuine person.
I’m sorry…..did I miss something?
Did Adam Lambert call James a derogatory name.? Adam gets called names all the time. Did Adam say James’ voice ‘sucked’ and made his ‘ears bleed’? Did Adam accuse James of using his ‘ailments’ to get sympathy votes? Did Adam deliberately tell his fan base to vote for Haley? Did Adam go on to say James deserved to be voted off because he wasn’t talented? I must have missed all of these ‘disses’. I’ve only read constructive criticism from Adam and polite personal opinions.
James and his fans better develop a thicker skin. If you think Adam ‘dissed’ James,you haven’t seen anything yet. James will get ripped apart by hateful and spiteful bloggers,media and the average person. Adam’s honest constructive critiques will read like love-letters!!
Oh,and by the way,other Idols have made comments…….where’s their backlash???
Good luck James…….hope you can handle the truth!!!
Totally agree with you ^. James and his fans are getting a bit sensitive over nothing. Please, if you think Adam’s bluntness is enough to make you stop being a fan of him, you must be one of those who likes things sugarcoated. If you’ve been a fan of Adam this long, you should know he makes no apologies. I’m surprised you stuck by being a “fan” this long. This is just the beginning of the criticism storm for James. Hold on to your hat.
good on you, go and support your mediocre singer, james. adam does not need you!
Why do I google Adam’s name and get James in here?
Enough!
Very funny, we all know that we are allowed to an opinion and Adam knows more then enough about music and good voices and lives in a free country so he can express himself.
Someone said he is not a nice person, not true, he is always praising other collegues, most of them not half as good as him, he is positive, down to earth and I think James took it really badly because he did not have enough fans voting for him, maybe he should just learn from Adam what it takes when you loose something, Adam could not be happier for Kris, he didn’t cry, did not blame anyone, he was happy, a good friend to everyone on the show.
For the person that does not like him anymore after AI because he is different, well, that’s why WE love him, he is not a follower, he is a leader with a great voice, he is is own person who can put on a show and makes us feel good and happy, today most of the singers are “just ad water”, they are spoiled like Bibber, most have no talent, just money machines, make them go acoustic and is so sad to ear because they have no voice, Adam is in a total different league, he CAN sing, anything, so to bad for the person who just does not like him, he has millions os fans all over the world so I guess the loss is yours but no big deal.
As for James, stop trying to compare or trying to put him with Adam’s name, one is an acomplished Artist, the other a kid that is not starting on a good path if you ask me, blaming others for your own mistakes…not nice at all.
Question: where did James blame Adam or anyone for his elimination? The reporter who interviewed him suggested that Adam rounded up votes for Haley to get him booted and James dismissed this as nonsense.
For the record James has said in numerous of his interviews that the main reason he was so upset at his elim was because he couldn’t get his homecoming and felt bad about letting his hometown down when they went to so much trouble to arrange it. He got it after all though.
As for all the crying, yes it being uncontrollable at times is due to Aspergers but he’s actually a very passionate person by nature. He has unapologetically stated in his interviews that he’s the kind of guy who wears his heart on his sleeve. James is his own person too and he’s allowed to have his opinions too.
“I think he’s got talent and passion 100 percent,”
“When he did that ‘Heavy Metal’ [Sammy Hagar] song, James was note-perfect. He was on pitch, which is usually kind of an issue, and I think he sounded really good, but it felt like a copycat.”
” I didn’t feel like I was seeing an original artist yet And I’m not saying he doesn’t have that in him, but it hasn’t been showing.”
Oooohh that Adam. Such a mean-spirited dissing dude. I mean,the nerve of Adam saying that he thinks James has talent and 100% passion. How dare he utter such spew. And then to make comments that were most likely coming from a helpful ‘been-there’ place…wow Adam you have no heart! And then to imply that James has originality,but needs to work on bringing his own uniqueness to the competition….wow…..how could anyone be so hurtful??
***eyeroll****
Give me a break!!
James,and his fans,should be thanking Adam for giving him the time of day if you ask me!! Adam only spoke of what those spineless AI judges (JLo and Randy) should have uttered from the beginning. They should be held accountable in part for James’ early-than-expected Idol departure!!! they let James believe that James had the title in the bag and James ran with that.
And now,it’s Adam’s fault that James got voted off. Go figure!
Oh, I forgot.
Sour grapes from Adam’s side?
That’s really funny and moronic, why would Adam be like that?
He has a career, a brigh future because of is great voice, is personality and also he is a positive person, not at all a sour grapes type, come on, not many people can sing like him, give me a break.
Why would he be sour?
James, let it go, coming from someone who just wanted distance from Adam (I wonder why) you sure talk a lot about him and that phrase “I was nothing but nice to that guy”, well, it tells me everything, sour looser, just a kid that can’t take some criticism, you were lucky Simon was not there (I miss him) this year, THEN you would have to be down to earth and would have a reality check, Simon is great at that but this year’s Jello jury that like everything took you to the sky, if you want to blame someone blame them.
You just took it for granted, then came the voting and you can’t face it so blame Adam (and I guess Elizabeth too since she also expressed her opinion), now you need to blame someone but why Adam?
Just because he spoke and that after the voting was done?
Grow up kid, work as much as Adam has worked all these years and maybe, just maybe you will get there, oh and be nice, take it like a man if someone is not your fan, you have a lot of growing up to do and a lot of serious thinking.
Adam’s sour grapes…
I wonder who was the moron that came up with that idea?
Free country, freedom of speach
The funny thing is, here we are, trying to be on Adam’s side when he really is the best voice around, he has not reason to be sour, no reason to envy anyone, he is always endorsing others when he is the best, time will tell but put Adam singing with just a guitar (I have all his acoustic songs) and my god, the man can sing so he really does not need our help but we, his fans are just like that and he knows how devoted we are.
Adam, don’t stop expressing your opinions, I know you won’t.
Like I said, Adam is a leader not a follower.
Question: where did James blame Adam or anyone for his elimination? The reporter who interviewed him suggested that Adam rounded up votes for Haley to get him booted and James dismissed this as nonsense.
For the record James has said in numerous of his interviews that the main reason he was so upset at his elim was because he couldn’t get his homecoming and felt bad about letting his hometown down when they went to so much trouble to arrange it. He got it after all though.
As for all the crying, yes it being uncontrollable at times is due to Aspergers but he’s actually a very passionate person by nature. He has unapologetically stated in his interviews that he’s the kind of guy who wears his heart on his sleeve. James is his own person too and he’s allowed to have his opinions too.
Yes he’s allowed to have his opinions, but if he can’t handle other people’s honest opinions, he’s going to get ripped apart in this business.
Adam is the leader of the Copycats!
and james is not a copy cat? ha ha ha ! grow up! why do you think james is on idol, of course KARAOKE (COPY CAT)
Apparently Mr. ‘I’m so innocent,I haven’t been nothing but nice to the guy’ Durbin is ‘dissing’ Adam’s tour. Blatant. Intentional.
Nice James,nice. Or should we blame YOUR ‘dissing’ as a symptom of your Tourettes, just as your fans like to remind everyone and their mother?
Please….give that boy a PR person before he alienates everyone that could help him!!
Dissing Adam’s tour? I don’t call James ever saying “Adam” and “tour” in the same sentence. And what dissing? James comments were even more tactful than Adam’s, and yes he HAS been nothing but nice to Adam. The only dissing I see here is coming from the Glamberts.
Oh…..you don’t approve of the ‘dissing’ reference? Touche!! Two can play that game. So Adam’s comments are ‘disses’,James are ‘tactful’?
I said ‘apparently’…..you know,the rumor mill…..I’m not sure what percentage of truth there is. There are so many interviews out there,that it could have been loosely translated. But I guess where James is concerned we have to be PC because he’s so sensitive. James could not possibly ‘diss’ Adam and if he did,it must be his….you know….condition. Where Adam’s concerned,just bash him and take everything he utters out of context.
Alex,have you ever heard of the term ‘two-way street’? If you’re this uber-sensitive about Adam opinions,just wait until actual James detractors really let loose. No mercy!
Aha Ha:
I never said that Adam’s comments were “dissing”, would you show me where I did? And why do you wanna play games? And where did you get the idea that I’m uber sensitive about comments. I said very clearly above that the only dissing I see here is coming from Glamberts. NEITHER ADAM OR JAMES ARE DISSING YOU GLAMBERTS ARE THE ONES WHO ARE.
Go to the website listed below to see where James dissed Adam’s tour and others.
http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/s91/american-idol/news/a320026/idol-james-durbin-im-going-to-the-top.html
Iah,
I went to the site that you posted and could not find the remarks in the video or text. In fact, there was no mention of Adam in there. Maybe you can elaborate or copy and paste the text?
Watch your double negatives Ah Ha, “haven’t been nothing but nice to the guy”, incorrect quote and bad grammar. Be sure and quote correctly if you’re going to post and look credible.
Correction noted. I wasn’t quoting…..I guess I was paraphrasing. Your correction has been noted. Oh those pesky double negatives have always been a problem…..and yet I find your comments constructive. Thank you.
It’s too bad James,and his fans, can’t take criticism for what it is……constructive!
I think the whole thing has been blown horribly out of proportion, I love both of these young men as artists, they are both talented, actually don’t think they are that similiar, as they have both said, are in different stages of their careers, have different styles, there is absolutely no reason to pit them against each other. Remember, that the media (and some fans), tried to pit Adam and Kris Allen against each other when they actually were friends. Did anyone actually hear Adam say what he is reported to have said, and then I just wonder how misrepresented and twisted it has gotten (has anyone ever played the Gossip game-I think it plays out all of the time in the entertaiment world to the media’s delight). And above is the first time anyone has said anything about James “dissing” Adam. Anyone, I for one will continue to follow both of their careers, and support both of them by buying their records, going to concerts, etc, think they are both phenomenally talented and their is surely room for both of them in the world of music. GO ADAM, GO JAMES>
Nice post Deb, agree wholeheartedly.
sounded to me like constructive criticism. If he didn’t care, he wouldn’t have even brought it up.
I was rooting for James from the start because of his talent and because I sympathize with him having Tourette’s and Asperger’s. But I was bothered because he can’t seem to distance himself from Adam by singing tunes that Adam had done on AI. Still I was supporting him along with others I like this year.
But then it bothered me when I sensed he doesn’t have HUMILITY saying he is not Adam but better and when he told Steven that he will sing an Aerosmith number at the finals. And I sensed later he is really so full of himself thinking he is PERFECT.
Still puzzles me what it is that “he has done so much on AI which has never been before!” And he is so brazen pandering to Randy with Don’t Stop Believin. And it was too much how he always worked on the audience the judges have to wait too long before they can praise him again.
I wish James all the luck but eat some HUMBLE PIE first.
I don’t know if having Tourette’s and Asperger’s will not make one HUMBLE, but that;s the lesson James needs to learn
James only sang one song that Adam sang on the show: A Change Is Gonna Come, that’s it.
Stuff James did that no one else did on the show, all which were his own ideas, confirmed by Michael Orland, the show’s associate musical director:
1. Pyros
2. Judas Priest (first metal song ever sung on Idol)
3. Flaming piano
4. Operatic military garb + marching drum line
5. And the most epic: Heavy Metal with Zakk Wylde on guitar complete with guitar solo
Michael Orland on James humility:
“That boy is so smart, so fast, so loving, so appreciative of all the help he gets. He’s just a really warm kid.” (American Idol Backstage Report: James Durbin’s Painful Goodbye).
Adam is nothing more than a common gay bar drag performer who got some attention.
He realizes that James is the new Adam – and much cooler and nicer.
Bye bye Adam — you just trashed a guy who has overcome serious disabilities.
You are off my good list.
Adam has never been a drag performer. As for being gay, why did you even mention it – its not pertinent to anything. As far as who is nicer, everytime Adam does an interview he get nothing but positive feedback about his vocals, looks, and his personality. It has been stated by the Idol stage hands, all the idol judges including Simon, Rickey Minor, Michael Orland and many others what a great guy Adam is. Adam is always supporting other artists, which you can view by looking at his twitter comments. I’ve also even heard interviews say how cool Adam is and how he made them feel cool also. James wants to be in the music industry and he is going to be judge by all kinds of people. You as a supporter of James or James himself cannot expect people to stop and make excuses for him because of his disorders. He is going to be held accountable for his actions. I have family members with disabilities but they have never used them as an excuse.
Iah, he doesn’t use them as an excuse. He talks about overcoming them in order to be an inspiration to children trying to overcome what disabilities they may have that are similar. If you have listened or read what James has to say about his disability, he said that he does have Tourettes and Auspergers syndromes but they don’t have him and he won’t let them control him. He went off of his medication at 16 so that he could be himself. He jested and called himself a freak and said that he’s going to be himself no matter what. Go to the Youtube of him on the Ellen Degeneres show and listen. If anything he talks about these things in a positive way and it has already inspired many people who are connected in some way with the same syndromes. Do some homework on this. It’s really pretty interesting.
This comment is in really bad taste, James wouldn’t approve at all.
I agree you totally, Adam Lambert is OFF and totally embarrasing himself with his comments on James.
people really…Adam said great things about him but had constructive criticism about him…look back and see what they said about Adam and he was a big boy and able to take it. Stop trying to make a fight where there isn’t one.
Bottom everyone:
ADAM IS ENTITLED TO SAY WHAT HE WANTS. JAMES IS ALSO ENTITLED TO SAY WHAT HE WANTS AND IS ENTITLED TO FEEL THE WAY HE FELT ABOUT WHAT ADAM SAID ABOUT HIM. ADAM DOESN’T HAVE TO LIKE JAMES. JAMES DOESN’T HAVE TO CARE ABOUT WHAT ADAM THINKS OF HIM. THERE IS NO REAL FEUD.
@lah seen that interview before and no mention of Adam or other Idol alum in there so this doesn’t prove anything. You know, not everyone considers Adam the center of the universe so not everyone has Adam in mind when they talk.
As usual, the media does their job to create controversy when there is none. James isnt interested in feuding with Adam. Both guys are great. I am a fan of both guys and have been rooting for James to win. He is amazingly talented as is Adam. Please fans of both, let it go.
Yip, wish some of the Glamberts here would see this.
Misleading title.
Adam dissing James? Where are the snide remarks,the nasty name-calling,the rude quips……?
Oh there aren’t any because…. well….Adam wasn’t dissing James!!
Since when is complimenting,lending constructive criticism,and stating a well-thought out opinion,…..dissing? If the judges DID their jobs,James would be in a better place….probably because he would have taken his queues of improving himself from them. Just because you’re the front-runner doesn’t guarantee immunity from making mistakes. In my opinion,James had his weakest night last week. The judges continued to over-praise him while practically handing him the Idol title. Aren’t they suppose to impart valuable critiques?
Adam does in fact KNOW what it’s like to be on the receiving end of criticism — constructive and nasty. Luckily he had Simon to remind him that everybody’s vulnerable.Thank goodness for Simon’s blatant honesty (of which Adam listened to,without objection). It help shape and prepare Adam for the real world. Adam was never above getting constructive criticism because he knew in the long run that it was meant to be helpful.
James is going to have to let down his defensive guard and start listening to those who know….yes,even Adam Lambert. After all Adam has been in James’ shoes.
James admitted last week that he “slipped up” the previous week, he knows his Top 5 performances weren’t great.
Adam Lambert can talk about people being original artists when he starts writing all the music himself, and I mean guitars, drums, bass, vocals, and any electronic/synth type filler that goes along with it. And that is the fundamental lie when it comes to mainstream pop artists (excepting a very few.. not Adam though). They’re lyricists and singers. That’s it. Most of the work is done for them already.
And as for James Durbin… I’ll believe he’s a metal head when he starts a band and takes the world by storm with a band that DOESN’T sound like every other lame rock band today who are trying to sound like Nickleback.
Adam does write/co-write some of his own original music,was in a band,performed in musicals,collaborated on arrangements,and worked very closely with those who worked on his album. His songs were all originals,not covers (with the exception of some encores on his tour) He also created the theme for his hugely successful world tour,of which he was responsible for the creative and visual aspects of the show. He worked very closely with his choreographer for the dance segments.. Adam is very ‘hands-on’ with every aspect of his career. Does he play an instrument yet (many consider his voice an instrument)—- no,but I wouldn’t doubt if that’s something he may pursue in the future. No one seems to question the wildly commercial successful Katy Perry…..I don’t believe she plays a musical instrument.
Regarding James….it’s too early to tell but I’m sure he will find his ‘way’….eventually.
Isn’t that en
Nickelback isn’t Metal.
To be honest I can’t imagine Adam Lambert is losing any sleep over it either. The Idol judges were a waste of space this year, somebody should have said this to Durbin sooner IMO
Honestly I still don’t understand how Adam’s comments are “constructive criticism”, can someone please tell me? I’m not accusing Adam of dissing James, I’m just saying that his comments make no sense to me. And regarding originality – why not just let the contestants just do what they love and what they’re good at?
Adam was alluding to the fact that James HAS the ability to put his own stamp on a song,however,he kept it too close to the original.
As far as originality….isn’t that a big part of what the judges expect from the contestants? How many times have we heard,ad nauseam,’Just make it your own’.
I think when you’re a former Idol contestant who had proper constructive criticism at the time of the show,and was an innovator of switching-up a song (‘If I Can’t Have You’,for example) you know what you’re talking about.
But as pointed out earlier James did put his stamp on Heavy Metal. Have you heard Hagar’s version? James didn’t sing it like him. And how about his original arrangements of Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow and Love Potion No.9?
Who’s Adam Lambert?
Adam is the guy who was a Broadway-rocker on Idol, and then put out a dance pop album. He then has the nerve to say that James doesn’t know who he is as an artist. I think James knows exactly who he is, and won’t be putting out a electronca/dance album.
Why would Adam need to be jealous of someone like James? He was asked a question and gave an answer. Contestant like James a dime a dozens, no one would remember him once The X Factor debut in the fall. Heck! No one can remember some of the past winners and runner ups. James to me is just a copycat/karaoke singer, nothing distinctive about him. Perhaps all the praises from all those invalid judges went to his head. Fans of the show are just fans because it’s free. When you counted them to pay for the songs, that’s when reality sets in.
Really who in today’s contemporary rock scene sounds like James? NOBODY. And Adam doesn’t count cause his music isn’t rock, it’s electro-pop.
Adam never said he was rock.
Having that said,Adam can do ANY genre. He could even do country if he really had to.
Not too many artists are as transitional.
My point is James does not sound like the other rockers of today. A dime in a dozen? Not unless it’s 1984.
You mean, who can wail high notes off-pitch 50% of the time? Huh, I don’t know….
If singers like James are a dime a dozen, you should send the names of the other eleven to Jimmy Iovine. He said he didn’t know there were still singers out there, who could sing like James. Maybe that is why Adam got so jealous.
Adams comment was weeks ago. Cantinello and this blogger are stirring a dead pot!!! I like them both but James is a kinder person with a bigger heart and is more of a defined performer. He was true to himself on Idol and will be after with his album. Adam was fake on Idol. Led millions to beleive he would be a rocker! His core fans knew he wanted to do pop but its still wasnt represented on Idol. He has to know how disappointed some of his fans were. James has said he will be true to his fans and the reason they voted for him.
Yip I get that. I supported Adam during his Idol run and still believe he should’ve won S8 because he was the most talented of his season. Never liked his personality though, I don’t think he’s bad but his persona just doesn’t do it for me. And I hate the music he’s released so far. James, I fell in love with everything about him instantly – his voice, his personality, his stage presence, his dedication, his heart and soul. He deserves to have a long and successful career doing what he loves, he’s worked very hard to get where he is now, and I will support him all the way – Durbinator for life.
And you should support your favorite. James,personally,does nothing for me,just as Adam does nothing for you. That’s fair. They are both very talented men.
What I a have issue with is the ‘dissing’ label. James,and his fan base, will be in for a rude awakening if they think Adam’s words were ‘disses’. Adam has been raked through the coals….everything from ‘his scream’,his album cover,his skin,his weight, his hair,the fact that he’s gay,…..blah,blah,blah. His fans have witnessed everything from comments of adoration to death threats. I guess it comes with the territory (unfortunately, for Adam, it’s rampant and daily. ). I hope young James never experiences the kind of vile,hateful,and nasty spew that Adam has faced. I doubt he will. After all,he’s not gay.
So if you think Adam dissed James,think again. Adam gave James a gift in the form of a complimentary soft critique. If James is hurt over Adam’s words,he’s in for a rude awakening!!
Well as you’ll see from my posts on this page I don’t consider what Adam said dissing, I just don’t get anything he said. And James isn’t upset, some of his fans are but not all of them, many of them love Adam too. I honestly believe that Adam’s comments were edited by the publisher, that’s why they don’t make much sensed to me. Also James and Adam don’t have to like each other and are both entitled to their opinions.
Leave it to Adam to turn James being “note perfect” and trying hard into a bad thing. Pretty sure Adam’s music award debut performance was the epitome of “trying too hard.” Sorry Adam, but you’re boring, limited in rang, AND you try way too hard. James is fantastic and can really sing ANYTHING. I’ll be buying James’ album the second it hits stores, thanks.
Oh and the ‘limited in rang’ (although I think you mean range) thing. That’s a real doozy. There are countless professionals who would have a field day with that remark!! In fact,there are plenty of youtube videos that display Adam’s ‘not-of-this-world’ vocal range!!
Would you like a side of reality check with your transparent delusion?
I’m not saying anything bad about James. I wish him luck.
Limited in range……hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha……
******holding stomach from all the laughter************
@Auds,
Can you comprehend what you read? Or did you just read the title and not the content? Adam complimented James. Adam gave constructive criticism. Adam shared an opinion.
Leave it to people who don’t read thoroughly to take Adam’s remarks as an excuse to to do the very thing they are accusing him of doing —– dissing.
Get some glasses and perhaps an interpreter!!!
Adam Lambert is the biggest Copycat in this world and he’s calling someone else a copycat!
Adam Lambert copies everything from the lead singer of Tokio Hotel, Bill Kaulitz!
Does Bill still have a career. Don’t really hear about him anymore. But is he that real skinny sickly looking guy? Can’t see the sexy Adam Lambert wanting to look like him.
This is a non-issue fabricated by the blogger to get you to look at a SKYY Vodka ad. Only a martini made with SKYY Infusions will help you deal with this American Idol feud.
Sigh… Please let the rapture happen…
Just read Adam’s comments, and assuming they are not taken out of context, then they seem like constructive criticism given when asked for his opinion. Fact is, if he’d sugarcoated his comments, he’d be criticized for that, much like some on here criticize the judges. So you can’t win, but you can be honest. I really liked James this season, and expected to see him in the final (Rather than the CountryFest 2011 I think we are going to get). Fact is he was a bit pitchy at times, and the wail and pyro got a bit old. But then he does things like the Muse song and well – wow.
In the end though folks – this is just a couple of musicians – personally I’m going to sign off and focus my energies on doing something creative and meaningful – which I bet both James and Adam would agree on!
Boy someone’s wanting hits & to stir some hate! Adam didn’t diss that guy! He stated an opinion who he liked on AI! He also said that James, Scotty & Lauren were very talented & would dow really well! Go for reporting the truth instead of trying to get hits & stir shit! Pls!!
correction “would do really well”
Seems like the only time James gets any press is when he is linked to Adam for one reason or another. When he gets press on his own merits and accomplishments, like album and single sales and headlining tour, then and only then will he be of interet.
Adam is 100% correct and I agree totally with his critique. He didn’t say that James Durbin wasn’t a good singer. He is saying that he needs to be more diverse and original. It’s one thing to “cover” a song and another to make it your own.
My thoughts exactly! Adam could not have better expressed how I was feeling about James. However, I do think Adam could have been a little more diplomatic, as the media usually takes what he says and blows it out of proportion. Adam should realize this and more carefully articulate his opinion. Then again, we wouldn’t all be writing about this story. Any exposure is good exposure, I guess?
Adam Lambert is such a whiny cry baby. James is younger, yet far more mature than the nearly 30 year old man-child named Adam.
Wow. PLEASE explain to me how Adam’s honest, well-delivered opinion of a fellow artist makes him a “whiny man-child’.
This whole thing is BS if James is such a stand up guy then must we forget the comments he had previously made about Adam and how Adam kicked in the door and he’s gonna knock it all the way down, or I screamed like Adam, among others. Adam was asked what his opinion was, should he have lied to spare James’s feelings? I believe what he meant by copycat ( yes I’m 41 & still say that word) is that it felt like he wasn’t being himself, not necessarily that he was copying Sammy or Adam. James got his digs, not as noticeable but they are there, read between the lines, I’m sure he had PR right there to coach his answer. I thought James made it much further in the competition than he should have thanks to the Judges. He did have pitch issues & he is not as great a singer as he thinks he is. James fans are just mad bc Adam liked Haley & James went home, Grow up People, if that was the case then why isn’t Haley still there.
I agree with Adam. James took some risks, but never really changed any songs up. He did a high note as the shining part of every performance and you can only do that so many times before it gets old. He needed to try something different from rock music and get out of his comfort zone. His creativity was greatly lacking towards the end of his run so I completely agree with Adam. James has talent, but that can only get him so far before a strong creativity is needed; and unfortunately as of what I heard, James doesn’t have that exact amount of creativity. I hope he proves me wrong really bad, though.
Uh, Adam sung rock his entire time on Idol… His album was electronic, but James doesn’t have an album, so only their time on idol is comparable. Adam sung nothing BUT rock and ballads, the fuck is James on? That aside, Lambert’s NEXT album is a rock record, so I’m fairly certain that *signed* musical artist knows what he’s talking about. James should heed the advice, instead of bitching about it- ‘oh wah, adam lambert thinks I’m off pitch and sing the songs a little too similarly to the original track when I am in pitch” That’s constructive criticism, I mean how the fuck are you going to start a solo career when the only time you sound good is when you’re trying to mimic another artists sound? You’re not.
I completely agree with Adam. But beyond that, James didn’t have to get defensive and act like Adam had insulted him. Adam was just being honest, and he didn’t say it in a rude way or anything. Sounds to me like James is being oversensitive.
I am confused. How come people who call themselves as Adam fans could point the fingers at Adam? Any REAL Adam fans would know that he’s just simply being honest, just like he’s always been. Remember when he was mentoring back on Season 9? He was as always, honest with his opinion and criticism and unlike some other previous mentors, he gave real feedback and not just showered them with praises.
James, James, James. He needs to learn to put some brake on his mouth, or that could get him troubles in the future.
I supported adam during his season of idol. I also supported james this season on idol. That said I don’t get the comments of “constructive criticism.” Adam in my opinion hasn’t been doing this long enough to be an expert. So I don’t consider him to be expert enough to give criticism contructive or otherwise. I am not a huge fan of the cd Adam put out. Considering what he did on idol I expected better. The fact is time will tell how James career goes. Whether or not Adams comments were honest isn’t the point. I am not a sheep and can make my own assesmentws of the talent.
What is up With Adam Lambert???? James is Just Being himself and Adam is just being rude! people say there exactly alike. Whats with that??? I am the #1 Durbinator so i Support James!!!! Adam Just wants some Attention.
Dear Adam Lambert,
…………………
LEAVE JAMES ALONE!!!!!!
Durbin is such a freaking loser.
I understand what is meant by this however at the end of the day in terms of the population of the USA i doubt that James would have won American Idol or became runner up because i think the place that James Durbin came was perfect for the amount of people who are actually into metal or rock music. He won in terms of metal. Now i can understand where Adam is coming from as well only the issue i have with this is that Adam will be more comfortable as being a rocker reformed into a pop star however James naturally wouldn’t because James is a heterosexual man and Adam being part of the gay community wouldn’t have an issue associating with pop music however James would because he doesn’t have the same memories nor the passion for pop music. In the case of performing for an aspergers person it also triggers anxiety and large amounts which we become addicted to. This in turn means that anger is a good refuge therefore metal seems logical. I am on the fence with this being a lesbian and an aspergers person myself because i know where both people are coming from psychologically.