Vocal Comments From Meat

[ThatWriterGuy]

Meat just posted this on his Facebook account - I thought it was really interesting to finally hear him talk about it from that side of the fence! Here's the post in case you missed it:

Meat Loaf: Just let me tell you this !!! Rolling Stone was so against us , Why ? Because Max and Roy from the E-street Band played on Bat. A guy named Dave Marsh Reviewed the album and gave it no stars in July of 1977 and the album was not released until Oct. of 1977 So across this nation we were the the easy target . Because Rolling Stone in July of 1977 said we sucked . That is what the rest of the press printed . There were a few that gave us good reviews . Far and few between . People are sheep they are not going to disagree with their friends so we sucked . So Jim and I in the music Business have always been on the outside looking in . I really don't care . The Rock and Roll hall of Fame is the boys club .We proved them wrong and they in no way won't to admit the fact they were all wrong about What Jim and I could do . I'll tell you what , we proved them all wrong and sold 44 million records with "BAT OUT OF HELL " Also 23 million records on BAT 2 . On top of that a #1 single in 27 countries off of BAT 2. I'm still an easy target , People write I can't sing anymore . I am singing better now than I did in 2005,06 ,07 and 08. Got a vocal coach in 2008 and for the last 8 years have been singing notes and phrases I couldn't sing in 2005,06 ,07 and 08. They say I don't sound like Bat . That is correct . I was younger and that album was sped up. Plus I had to change the way I sang to get those vocals on that record . If people were really smart , they would hear I use the same voice that I did on Paradise in 1976 as I do now , just a half step lower. People love to either hate me or Love me !! I love these people that say , I saw him 10 years ago and the show was great , I got tapes to prove they are wrong , The shows are much better now , Vocally . I had one show in FLA. where I was a little hoarse . I Read things like he doing nothing but talking or he is screaming . These are not fans , If they were were they would know I sound the same as did on the Last 2 albums . With "Giving Tree" and Los Angeloser, Frying Pan Kills and All revved up is to low , so when we go back out May 20th , we are going to rase the key up a half step . It has been one way for 40 years , you either love or hate me and Jim !!! Me I love what we have done !! M

[rockfenris2005]

I'm sick of the dribble with Meat and Jim. It's time for them to be put into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It's time for them to be more acknowledged. It's time for a BOOH box set which is way overdue. It's time for Dead Ringer and other albums to be remastered. They can put out compilations but not albums. Put out compilations at least of stuff people don't already have. Well done for at least making the 80s albums more easily available to the general public with that box set they did recently tho. It's time for a DVD of all the music videos as well, including all the stuff from BA and BBIS, and WttN etc. etc. Sick of it.

[anotherday]

God I love Meat Loaf.

[AndrewG]

Meat shouldn't let all that crap bother him so much.

I don't take much notice from the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. Something that is called that should obviously have Meat Loaf somewhere on its list, the fact that artists such as Run DMC (Rock?) and E Street Band are on there makes it all a bit meaningless. Love Springsteen obviously. But his band is not really a separate entity deserving of an award that goes to individual artists in my opinion. Any backing band should then be considered. I'd rank the NLE at least on the same level if not higher. The songs are far more complex for one.

Awards shows are quite meaningless in today's world I find in general. What's the point having a TV awards show when the award for best presenter goes to the same bunch of childish idiots each year? Pathetic. There are more awards shows than artists who can be considered for an award it seems these days.

As the media clearly shows today it isn't until an artist is gone that people stop bitching and just appreciate the smiles and joys these artists give us. The fact they have some money seems to make many people resent artists and they get jealous, thinking about what they could all do with that wealth but totally forgetting it's a completely different life with different dreams who has it. Interestingly to me it seems that the best artists usually don't live extravagant life styles and aren't even home enough to enjoy their money. They just keep working and anyone denying that of Meat is a hypocritical lunatic.

[Mr. Happy]

If he actually believed his voice hasn't deteriorated, he wouldn't be taking down YouTube clips from recent shows.

When I won't pay to see my favourite artist live, something is very, very wrong.

[stretch37]

He's standing up for himself like anyone would do. Good on ya Meat.

[stretch37]

If he actually believed his voice hasn't deteriorated, he wouldn't be taking down YouTube clips from recent shows.

When I won't pay to see my favourite artist live, something is very, very wrong.

He's taking down youtube clips because a) he doesn't want feedback about the guide vocals, and the clips show where they are b) He's sensitive and despite all the good, he takes the bad seriously and tries to improve. He's an honest person that way and I totally get why he protects himself. He has to! c) He's said many times, to him it's not a concert, it's a stage show, and isn't meant to be watched on YouTube. So with that opinion in mind, makes sense to me he would want them taken down.

[AndrewG]

If he actually believed his voice hasn't deteriorated, he wouldn't be taking down YouTube clips from recent shows.

When I won't pay to see my favourite artist live, something is very, very wrong.

You could have the voice of an angel on Youtube, people will still find a reason to give you downvotes (mostly jealousy I think) and complain or insult you like a little pathetic bitch.

Up till yesterday if you tried to look for a recent Prince live video on YT you'd find none, not even official videos for many songs were left on YouTube. Did Prince's voice suck at any time during his career? I doubt it. Why should anyone other than the original artist get clicks / subs and thus potential revenue via these videos just because they happened to be at a show? I could go watch the Jungle book at the cinema tonight, record it with my video camera and upload the whole movie onto YT. Sure people will click and watch till it gets flagged. Ultimately I have no copyright for sharing that material. It is down to the artist in the end for leaving them up or not. As much as I like to see live videos, if one is solely basing the reason for going to someone's show just because of YT vids then you are probably not a reliable source of income for the artist so you might as well go see someone else as far as they are concerned. They still sell out shows even without social media. People still have a great time. Not until all the seats are empty will the artists keep playing and why not? Should one stop just to suit you?

[loaferman61]

Most of the Ticketmaster reviews from the last several years have complained of the sound mix and being too loud for the venue. This is mentioned numerous times over different tours. Maybe a lot of talk about his vocals would cease if the mix were changed. Too many people are saying they can't hear him well for it to be some coincidence.

[Julie in the rv mirror]

Meat just posted this on his Facebook account - I thought it was really interesting to finally hear him talk about it from that side of the fence! Here's the post in case you missed it:

[I]Meat Loaf: Just let me tell you this !!! Rolling Stone was so against us , Why ? Because Max and Roy from the E-street Band played on Bat. A guy named Dave Marsh Reviewed the album and gave it no stars in July of 1977 and the album was not released until Oct. of 1977 So across this nation we were the the easy target . Because Rolling Stone in July of 1977 said we sucked .
I just had a look at Meat's FB page, and I didn't see this posted- is it still there?

First off, he's wrong about the date- Marsh's review is dated December of 1977, not July. Secondly, while I wouldn't call it a glowing review, it doesn't exactly say they "sucked" either: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/albumreviews/bat-out-of-hell-19771215

As for the album being "Not Rated", that isn't the same as zero stars; I could be wrong, but I don't think Rolling Stone gave star ratings in all of its reviews back then.

That isn't to say that I don't think Marsh is a bit of a tool who just happens to worship the ground that Springsteen walks on. I'd say this review falls under what one author called "Curmudgeonly Reviews":
(2) Curmudgeonly Reviews: Reviews that are unduly harsh or dismissive, or offer a specious critique of a band. In many cases the artist that is the target of the curmudgeon's wrath is inventing a new genre, which confuses the critic, causing him (or her, though as we shall see, this was, to a large extent, a man's man's man's world) to lash out with sarcasm and invective. In other instances, the curmudgeon has a personal ax to grind, and is lambasting an album for reasons that are completely tangential to the music itself. Almost all of Dave Marsh's reviews fall under #2.

http://rateyourmusic.com/list/schmidtt/rolling_stones_500_worst_reviews_of_all_time__work_in_progress_/


Love Springsteen obviously. But his band is not really a separate entity deserving of an award that goes to individual artists in my opinion. Any backing band should then be considered.
That's not exactly correct. The E Street Band was inducted under the category of "Award for Musical Excellence", which replaced the former "Sidemen" category:
This category, which replaced sidemen, "honors those musicians, producers and others who have spent their careers out of the spotlight working with major artists on various parts of their recording and live careers."

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Rock_and_Roll_Hall_of_Fame_inductees#Award_for_Musical_Excelle nce

They were inducted as a unit, as have many bands in the "Performer" category. So theoretically, yes, any other backing band could be similarly considered.

Some fans felt that the ESB should have been inducted as a band along with Bruce, but he (rightly so, IMO) elected to be inducted as a solo artist. I think he lobbied to get the band inducted to amend what some considered a former wrong. If you heard the induction speech that Bruce gave for the band, and Steve Van Zandt's comments, it was clearly a very delicate and emotional situation for them.

If fans feel that strongly that Meat and Jim should be in the Hall, they need to lobby for their induction. The Hall has changed its stance in recent years; Rush was excluded for the longest time (much to the chagrin of their fans), before finally getting in a few years ago; Chicago was finally inducted this year.

[stretch37]

People don't like change, and I get that. THey want him to sound how the expect him to sound. And depending on what decade they last saw him, or which decade they listen to CD (or streaming now I guess) they expect him to sound like that.

Meat's voice has morphed since the Hang Cool tour. It's just different now. He's singing with a different technique. Personally I think he changed his singing style after his bleeding vocal chords in 2011 Australia. I'm not sure why, but everything from Mad Mad World tour onward has sounded different to me.

I had the shock happen to me in 2012 when I went to see MMW tour in Seattle. I was surprised. But I've since gotten used to his voice as it is now, and accepted it, and I have found that I am now just as excited watching him live as I had been in the past.

Expect this: Meat's voice will change again, and again. He has been told many times by fans and critics alike that he has no voice, that is voice is shot, that he is "over done", etc, etc. He has had many ups and downs. And will probably continue to do so. This is who Meat is. He is awesome. He is flawed. He is everything awesome we see in ourselves and everything we perhaps despise about ourselves at times. Meat Loaf is all about changes, about moving forward and making the most of the moment.

I just hope that the troves of people I see on ticketmaster giving Meat 1 star reviews don't come back, and I hope all of the 5 star reviews do. Natural selection baby. And i'll be there, rockin out to Meat's old voice and passion. <3

[AndrewG]

Most of the Ticketmaster reviews from the last several years have complained of the sound mix and being too loud for the venue. This is mentioned numerous times over different tours. Maybe a lot of talk about his vocals would cease if the mix were changed. Too many people are saying they can't hear him well for it to be some coincidence.

How many people would actively go onto Ticketmaster and post they thought the mix was excellent when that is the case? These will be skewed review figures if anything. Not saying they haven't got a valid point it's just that on a lot of review websites about anything the negative ones tend to prevail because the people who are satisfied just move on with life. I've written 3 Ticketmaster reviews in my life and probably seen about 50 other shows which I thought were equally as good as the review ones (which I rated 4 or 5 stars)

[AndrewG]

People don't like change, and I get that. THey want him to sound how the expect him to sound. And depending on what decade they last saw him, or which decade they listen to CD (or streaming now I guess) they expect him to sound like that.

Maybe it's because whenever programs on TV talk about Meat they still show the live-ish looking video of Bat out of Hell from 1977? ;)

[stretch37]

Maybe it's because whenever programs on TV talk about Meat they still show the live-ish looking video of Bat out of Hell from 1977? ;)

Could very well be ;)

[Wario]

Not better than 2005-2006 and certainly not 2010-2011

That being said meat really should rant like this on facebook. I understand he's annoyed with the voice comments (which are needlessly cruel).

The point is meats having fun. As long as he puts on a great show is all that counts. Tho I don't think raising a song up a key will help :/

[stretch37]

Not better than 2005-2006 and certainly not 2010-2011

That being said meat really should rant like this on facebook. I understand he's annoyed with the voice comments (which are needlessly cruel).

The point is meats having fun. As long as he puts on a great show is all that counts. Tho I don't think raising a song up a key will help :/

From what I've seen (And I've seen basically ever bootleg and every youtube video of 2015 and 2016), Meat started out both legs vocally better this year than he has been since the fall of his Hang Cool tour voice (After the stupid AFL fiasco)

No, not as good as 2010 or first half of 2011, and not as good as 2006 RAH, but I do think its better than his 2005 vocals, which I didn't really like. Also, better than 2012 and 2013 in terms of his higher range (What some people like to refer to as yelling or screaming....Something IMO Meat has always done...WHy people are just realizing that now is beyond me.)

Definitely better than many of his 2007 vocals and all of 2008. (Although arguably some of his 2007 performances were better than 2015...ones not recorded profesionally..)

As always, I'm not nearly as concerned about where Meat has been, as where he is going. His voice will continue to evolve as Meat works on his performance and training and technique, and depending on how Meat feels and his health.

I think he's made good progress this year, and I think all the hype around Braver will spawn some new energy around the man himself.

[Evil Ernie]

I've said it before and I'll say it again. ML needs to stay off the internet or at the very least not read up personal reviews.


No good can come of it IMO. He will inevitably read something he doesn't like and go on another rant like in the OP, which opens himself up to further criticism.

[stretch37]

I've said it before and I'll say it again. ML needs to stay off the internet or at the very least not read up personal reviews.


No good can come of it IMO. He will inevitably read something he doesn't like and go on another rant like in the OP, which opens himself up to further criticism.

Why should Meat stay off the net just because of some haters? I'd rather he just do whatever he damn well pleases, he wears his heart on his sleeve, he's outgoing and talks a lot, makes sense that he's online saying that stuff.

As is very clear on his facebook page alone, he has many fans who love him in his current state, and adore the shit out of his voice and music. They'll keep buying tickets and keep (by what i've read) having a great time at his shows. He will continue to lose fans and gain fans all based on his actions as an artist.

I must say though, I do feel bad seeing those reviews where people have been fans of Meat for years, and honestly say they feeling disappointed and ashamed of Meat, etc.....That sucks, I mean if I were a fan of someone, and suddenly I felt kind of divorced from my favorite artist, that's tough. I feel sympathetic towards anyone who is going through that as Meat fan right now. It's not anyones fault, interests change and sometimes people grow apart.

The good news for me is that I still love Meat, I enjoy his facebook rants and his facebook love, and his communication with his fans. I like his personality, and we don't agree on everything (Like endorsing Romney), I don't feel that way. If I see he's having an off day, I'm genuinely concerned for him, or hoping he rests his voice and body if he needs to rather than pushing himself way too hard for his fans or some debt he feels he owes the world.

[loaferman61]

From what I've seen (And I've seen basically ever bootleg and every youtube video of 2015 and 2016), Meat started out both legs vocally better this year than he has been since the fall of his Hang Cool tour voice (After the stupid AFL fiasco)

No, not as good as 2010 or first half of 2011, and not as good as 2006 RAH, but I do think its better than his 2005 vocals, which I didn't really like. Also, better than 2012 and 2013 in terms of his higher range (What some people like to refer to as yelling or screaming....Something IMO Meat has always done...WHy people are just realizing that now is beyond me.)

Definitely better than many of his 2007 vocals and all of 2008. (Although arguably some of his 2007 performances were better than 2015...ones not recorded profesionally..)

As always, I'm not nearly as concerned about where Meat has been, as where he is going. His voice will continue to evolve as Meat works on his performance and training and technique, and depending on how Meat feels and his health.

I think he's made good progress this year, and I think all the hype around Braver will spawn some new energy around the man himself.

Meat is hands down the most interesting vocalist ever. He truly is all about the performance as an art and not some sterile routine. He sounds different from year-to-year and sometimes from one show to the next. I once saw him struggling during a show and he fell, got up and picked back up exactly where he left off and his voice after the spill was 100% better. Never seen anything like it.

[loaferman61]

I've said it before and I'll say it again. ML needs to stay off the internet or at the very least not read up personal reviews.


No good can come of it IMO. He will inevitably read something he doesn't like and go on another rant like in the OP, which opens himself up to further criticism.

It is tough to say. Of course it is what he chooses to do and read, but as has been said he seems to not notice positive comments anywhere near as much as negative. The negatives really dig at him it seems and make him rant. I know he works hard and everything and tries so much to please but you can't please everyone. I wish he'd focus on the percentage that were pleased as much as the ones that are overly critical.

[stretch37]

It is tough to say. Of course it is what he chooses to do and read, but as has been said he seems to not notice positive comments anywhere near as much as negative. The negatives really dig at him it seems and make him rant. I know he works hard and everything and tries so much to please but you can't please everyone. I wish he'd focus on the percentage that were pleased as much as the ones that are overly critical.

He does see the positive and feel it, but negative hurts him more than the positive can make up for it. So that's why it riles him up. I'm the same way. But yes, I think he should try to appreciate what he does have - all the positive support surrounding him. I have to stop and recheck that too from time to time!

[stretch37]

Meat is hands down the most interesting vocalist ever. He truly is all about the performance as an art and not some sterile routine. He sounds different from year-to-year and sometimes from one show to the next. I once saw him struggling during a show and he fell, got up and picked back up exactly where he left off and his voice after the spill was 100% better. Never seen anything like it.

I've never quite heard it put like that, but that's exactly it!

And yes, i've noticed too when he gets distracted or something goes wrong suddenly he's singing way better haha. Its great

[rockfenris2005]

What has to be remembered is that he's putting his absolute 110% into it, even if it doesn't work out. I like Meat. I like Meat a lot. He has this belief that we are always learning and that as a rock star he compares his job to being a plumber and not being glamorous and getting the attention and all of that. And he's faced his fears and gone out and lived his dream, which can be one of the hardest things you can do. It's not easy to just face something, walk away and live out your dream. I really admire that. And I think there's a lot to be learned. He's not perfect - only Mary Poppins is perfect - but there's a lot there to admire.

[ThatWriterGuy]

Personally, I love what Meat and Jim have done!! (and, let's face it, it'd be a bit hypocritical if I didn't feel that way). I love the songs, I love the world, I love the fantastic epic fantasy of the scope of the stories that they've built together...

However, I'm not a fan of the current Meat Loaf 'sound' when it comes to live performances. If you like it, that's cool, but it's just not right for me. At the same time I'm not hankering for Meat to sound JUST LIKE HE DID in 1977, either. That was then, this is now - it's nigh on impossible for a singer to maintain the same timbre and range over a 40 year career.

For me, the vocal sound that I identify with - the one that I listen to and instantly go 'yeah, that's MEAT LOAF - ended around the time of Bat III. I know a lot of people here really DIDN'T like the live show in the streets of NYC (for a TV show whose name I've since forgotten), but I really dug that one. My own golden era falls somewhere between the mid-late 80s and the end of the Bat II touring cycle. Would I want that sound again now? You bet your ass I would!!! But being realistic it isn't going to happen, and I'm not sad about that and I definitely don't BLAME Meat for it, either. What I do like is that Meat is finally talking about his voice - it's really refreshing to hear, and I love how he's letting us in on how it is for him as a vocalist and what he's had/having to do. Maybe it's just me, but that shit's fascinating!

I'm looking forward to the new/potentially last album - I still enjoy Meat's studio voice - but live just isn't for me anymore.

[CarylB]

It is tough to say. Of course it is what he chooses to do and read, but as has been said he seems to not notice positive comments anywhere near as much as negative. The negatives really dig at him it seems and make him rant. I know he works hard and everything and tries so much to please but you can't please everyone. I wish he'd focus on the percentage that were pleased as much as the ones that are overly critical.

Perhaps you don't read his page that regularly! Because what is very noticeable is that he DOES notice positive comments and increasingly focuses on fans who make positive comments .. thanking them with that humility that is his hallmark. He also notices when they are having difficulty getting tickets, and works his tail off to try and get things sorted. He has limited time and doesn't read every post made .. but his interaction is in the main interesting, helpful, amusing .. and interested and caring in a way that few artists of his stature are. Put simply, most times he comes on his page for many fans he makes their day .. showing he is interestED IN them, values them, holds a great affection for and gratitude towards them, cares deeply if they are having difficulties. He may not be unique in this ... but I doubt any other artists show it more. Rockferris says "He has this belief that we are always learning". He does and he practises this ... on his page as well as in everything he does as a performer.

You refer to those who are "overly critical" .. my observation is that those he reacts to with annoyance are those who are bloody rude while they are being overly critical, or simply outrageous in attacking his integrity. He is a passionate man; without that passion, we would not see the great performances we do, would not stand in awe at the level of emotion and passion with which he invests every song. And Meat invests SO much of himself in his work, his performance, that like it or not, when you criticise his work you are criticising the man; the two cannot be separated, and it is perfectly understandable when he responds defensively. Do this without a thought for how rudely you phrase it, waltz onto his page and attack his very integrity and values, and he will respond with anger .. as would most human beings. Most fans who really care about him and support him not only understand this .. many cheer him on. Those who were simply thoughtless and rude will often apologise .. those who were artfully poking the bear tend to disappear. Sometimes he goes into more detail than the commenter deserves .. but that is only because he cares so deeply about his work and his fans getting value, both of which are priceless.

What has to be remembered is that he's putting his absolute 110% into it, even if it doesn't work out. ............. He's not perfect - only Mary Poppins is perfect - but there's a lot there to admire.

Indeed. On an off-day Meat still gives a more outstanding performance in terms of passion, stagecraft and sheer splendour than most artists, and most days he is still magnificent. Does he miss hitting the odd note as he'd wish to? Yes. But does he still hit thousands of them every night, and every night work his ass off to make it 100%? YES. He is more than a voice. He remains someone who can conceive, choreograph and deliver a night of music, colour, and spectacle as few others do; he can still bring an audience to its feet just by walking on stage, can command their attention for two hours, and send all but a few home on a high of excitement. That he cares and agonises about the few is a mark of the man. That thousands have a wonder-filled night they will long remember? That is the mark that he is still a top performer.

[rockfenris2005]

For me, the vocal sound that I identify with - the one that I listen to and instantly go 'yeah, that's MEAT LOAF - ended around the time of Bat III. I know a lot of people here really DIDN'T like the live show in the streets of NYC (for a TV show whose name I've since forgotten), but I really dug that one. My own golden era falls somewhere between the mid-late 80s and the end of the Bat II touring cycle. Would I want that sound again now? You bet your ass I would!!! But being realistic it isn't going to happen, and I'm not sad about that and I definitely don't BLAME Meat for it, either. What I do like is that Meat is finally talking about his voice - it's really refreshing to hear, and I love how he's letting us in on how it is for him as a vocalist and what he's had/having to do. Maybe it's just me, but that shit's fascinating!

The era that really makes me tick at the moment is the Lost Boys & Golden Girls tour. Oh man... Go and watch "Bad for good" on Wario's channel again. Just that moment where he sings "Let me hold you so... TIGHTTTT!!!" gives me chills. It feels like you are in the presence of the master. I also really like the show from the Bat II Picture Show video, especially "Anything for love". And the "TIIIGHTTT" moment there, haha, is before the first ("And some days it don't come easy") where he sings "But I won't do that, I won't do..." Then you just hear him yell "THATHAAAAAAATTTT!!!!" or something. Sounds so *minor* but that show is epic.

The thing about Meat and Jim, if you think about it, is. I really believe they didn't ever have to make another album again after "Bat out of Hell", or those shows, because it was so brilliant the first time, sort of like Pink Floyd didn't have to make another album after "Dark side". Of course I'm thrilled that they did though.

It's only because of what happened with Bat 3 that I still want a Meat/Jim collaboration, so that they get to end it on a better note.

[tonyloaf]

Someone who takes the time out of their sad little life's to completely run down an artist = complete dick head

[ThatWriterGuy]

Someone who takes the time out of their sad little life's to completely run down an artist = complete dick head

Their life's what?

Just kidding ;) But you'd do well to remember the difference between the above and genuine criticism. As an artist, and I'm speaking for myself here most of all, being able to accept (if not always act on) genuine criticism is so completely ~~~~ing important that you owe it to the work - above all else - in order to make it the best that it can be at that time.

[ThatWriterGuy]

Just came across this from late 2010:

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And this:

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And probably the BEST of them all:

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If Meat could pull this off, every song, every night, I'd be there like a shot!! Does he sound the same as he did 15/20/30 years ago? No. But he sounds pretty damn good here.

[Adje]

I have that complete show from Dallas. And it's one of my favorites. Meat was having a ball.

[Adje]

Besides, the entire 2010 tour was fun as far as I remember

[ThatWriterGuy]

I have that complete show from Dallas. And it's one of my favorites. Meat was having a ball.

Fantastic! Do the other songs come across as well as BAT?

[AndrewG]

The 2010 shows I saw were excellent as where the LAB ones from 2013. A privilege to have been able to be at each of these. If I'd lived almost anywhere else in the world there's no way to see so many.

[Adje]

Fantastic! Do the other songs come across as well as BAT?

absolutely:cool:

[ThatWriterGuy]

I watched the entire Dallas 2010 gig (thanks Adje!) and while it was good, and a lot of the songs that are still in the set list today sounded - to these ears, at least - much better than they have on subsequent tours (Hot Patootie, BAT, Took The Words), I can't help but find that I'm still not a fan of the current style - visual or vocal, and regardless of whether Meat's sounding a little flat or if he's right on for the majority (i.e. Dallas). For me, the last era of vocals I truly enjoyed - looking back in retrospect - were here:

xQoePyD6huQ

For me, that's what MEAT LOAF sounds like, and it's instantly recognisable as 'the real mccoy'.

I feel like today's Meat Loaf is almost unrecognisable compared with the clip above, and that's not a slight on Meat, that's just an obvious comparison. I mean, I could PRETEND otherwise, but that would be totally disingenuous. I know that a lot of you really dig Meat's vocal style and live performance these days, but it's just not for me. Not only does Meat sound great in the clip above, but he looks great, too. He looks confident. I see him, sitting there singing that song, and he's a legend again. That storytellers type of vibe really suits his performance, especially if it means that he gets to concentrate on the vocals.

In short: if Meat were to go back to that style of singing/performing, I'd buy a ticket tomorrow!

Hell, I'd take two of 'em!

[ThatWriterGuy]

Hmm, maybe I was a little harsh in that last post, and I probably fell down the rabbit hole for a while. It's easy to get carried away with comparisons when you've got over thirty years worth of material to chew over. I end up contradicting myself...

Well, I wouldn't change anything above, but I'd maybe choose kinder words I think. 'Unrecognisable' was a leap too far. THAT I probably would change.

Also, I see that our Silent Lurker is back with her 'dislike' button again :roll: Why use words when you can just passive aggressively hit a button. Fantastic!!

[stretch37]

Hmm, maybe I was a little harsh in that last post, and I probably fell down the rabbit hole for a while. It's easy to get carried away with comparisons when you've got over thirty years worth of material to chew over. I end up contradicting myself...

Well, I wouldn't change anything above, but I'd maybe choose kinder words I think. 'Unrecognisable' was a leap too far. THAT I probably would change.

Also, I see that our Silent Lurker is back with her 'dislike' button again :roll: Why use words when you can just passive aggressively hit a button. Fantastic!!

And that's why Facebook didn't implement a dislike button ;)

Honestly I agree with all your points, and for awhile I think I was down the same rabbit hole with the same opinions. But I've realized I don't care that I wanted Meat to sound a certain way, that I want to see him now and I love the man, so I've just accepted what I do have, and stopped caring about what I wish I had or no longer get to witness.

Also from what I've heard, many people said shows were amazing that I had thought sounded bad in the bootleg, so I think whatever they're doing with the live mix it must sound better in person from time to time.

Also, I have full faith Meat's performances will continue to evolve, because that's who he is. So if there's some nuances I don't like right now, that's ok, because there's some he doesn't like either.

I think that is actually a really good point. (if I do say so myself ;))

Meat's performances since Bat 3 seem to have become more Meat and less Meat Loaf. That is to say, Meat is singing arrangements he likes, and singing even more how he feels in the style that suits his feelings.

I think that's what's bothering a lot of people. We have Meat the artist emerging from Meat Loaf the artist, and some people love it, while others hate it and don't want the individual touch, they just want him to act like 70s, 80s or 90s Meat Loaf. I've noticed that as an artist, Meat has really blossomed since Bat III, and Hang Cool Teddy Bear and Hell In A Handbasket are really HIS albums. They're Meat albums. His vision, his creative and artistic energy, etc.

And I totally get it. I mean he literally is evolving before our eyes. It's bound to upset those who liked how things already were! And I won't deny that it has bothered me immensely in the past - I'm just kind of over it now. I think I've realized that I'm as much a fan of Meat as I am of the Meat Loaf character :) Probably more a fan of Meat actually. Whereas Doode or Ad you guys might feel different, I completely respect that. Nobody is wrong here, and everyone has the right to feel how they do.

And with that, I'm off to make some tea and get to work :cool:

[loaferman61]

Is anyone else seeing white boxes where the youtube videos are supposed to be?

[ThatWriterGuy]

Appreciate that post, Stretch :cool: Just to clarify though: I'm not averse to Meat changing stylistically, and I'm not hankering for the 70's or the 80's, or even the 90's, but there's a certain point where change - either by design or situation (or necessity) - becomes an obstacle. From my perspective it has nothing to do with nuances or evolution, but the concept as a whole. Does Meat Loaf sound like MEAT LOAF anymore? I guess the only answer to that is YES, because he IS Meat Loaf. Whether it's good or bad on the other hand, well, maybe that's in the eye of the beholder... ;)

[Adje]

Is anyone else seeing white boxes where the youtube videos are supposed to be?

Yup, I had to post the link manually

[ThatWriterGuy]

Is anyone else seeing white boxes where the youtube videos are supposed to be?

I'm getting it too, how odd. Any ideas?

[stretch37]

Appreciate that post, Stretch :cool: Just to clarify though: I'm not averse to Meat changing stylistically, and I'm not hankering for the 70's or the 80's, or even the 90's, but there's a certain point where change - either by design or situation (or necessity) - becomes an obstacle. From my perspective it has nothing to do with nuances or evolution, but the concept as a whole. Does Meat Loaf sound like MEAT LOAF anymore? I guess the only answer to that is YES, because he IS Meat Loaf. Whether it's good or bad on the other hand, well, maybe that's in the eye of the beholder... ;)

Exactly!

[Monstro]

Is anyone else seeing white boxes where the youtube videos are supposed to be?

I'm getting it too, how odd. Any ideas?

Sorted

[ThatWriterGuy]

This came up today and I thought it was pretty cool:

CaPlyAu4Hsg

And yes, it's a 'pro' recording, so no 'crappy camera phones'.

Meat handles 'Outside' really well on this one, however, I'm still not a fan of songs like RARD with that style of vocal - it sounds quite forced and slurred, which is almost polar opposite to how it was recorded and performed for such a long time.

[ThatWriterGuy]

Also, 2006, I really like this performance (and the shirt and the jacket!):

NQ7Bi3tyVSc

[stretch37]

Still doing that weird thing where the video is white for me :evil:

[ThatWriterGuy]

Still doing that weird thing where the video is white for me :evil:

Met too ... am I posting these up wrong? I'm pasting in the URL and hitting the YT button.

[Adje]

Met too ... am I posting these up wrong? I'm pasting in the URL and hitting the YT button.

Only copy/paste the "V=etcetera" part ;-)

Didn't watch but I'm sure the first video is from the Gillford concert in 2010. They (gillford crew) put 7 clips on YouTube from 2007 before Meat had them removed, somewhere in 2010. They also posted the two clips from the Hang Cool show in Gillford. They also got removed rather soon.

The 2007 videos they put up:

01 Out of the Frying Pan
02 Life is a Lemon
03 In the Land of the Pigs
04 Rock and Roll Dreams
05 Bat out of Hell
06 Mercury Blues
07 Gimme Shelter

[Wario]

Also, 2006, I really like this performance (and the shirt and the jacket!):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQ7Bi3tyVSc

Dude you only copy the thing after the "v="

so this:

NQ7Bi3tyVSc

[ThatWriterGuy]

Thanks both! I'll try and remember that.

[anotherday]

I love and appreciate all eras of MEAT for what they are. Each has its own story, it's own path.

His 40+ year journey singing the songs that made our lives what they are isn't over yet, thank god.

I, for one, am glad he's still around and able to make music and tour. He has a wonderful voice. Always has. In any form. He will be fine :)

We are all better for MEAT giving use these songs over the years. Seeing them in any format has been a true joy for me and many others.

Comparing Eras is silly. They're all respectable. Even 2007.

The performances shared here are ALL wonderful. And the performances from this last tour (or two) have been wonderful as well.

[stretch37]

I love and appreciate all eras of MEAT for what they are. Each has its own story, it's own path.

His 40+ year journey singing the songs that made our lives what they are isn't over yet, thank god.

I, for one, am glad he's still around and able to make music and tour. He has a wonderful voice. Always has. In any form. He will be fine :)

We are all better for MEAT giving use these songs over the years. Seeing them in any format has been a true joy for me and many others.

Comparing Eras is silly. They're all respectable. Even 2007.

The performances shared here are ALL wonderful. And the performances from this last tour (or two) have been wonderful as well.

Amen to that. Brilliantly written anotherday.

Yeah, looking back at 2007, Meat actually had a lot of great performances. Too bad all that negative energy overshadowed it at the time, because he actually performed well for most of the footage I've seen.

[ThatWriterGuy]

That was a nice post - and I enjoyed reading it - and I hate to be the one to do it, but I just can't take phrases like 'Comparing Eras is silly. They're all respectable' seriously. I'm not trying to make you feel bad for liking something that I, personally, don't, but consider this: before I started this thread I received messages and emails from users of this forum - and not the ones you would imagine it to be, either - who have wanted to vent over this subject (live vox/visuals/concert tickets/etc. etc.), and I guess they came to me because they felt like they couldn't say what they really wanted to say or express on this board.

I won't name names - they wrote to me in confidence, after all - and I won't discuss what was said, but if they want to put across their own views then I guess now is as good a time as any, and if not, then that's cool too. I'm suspecting 'not', because they don't want to be ostracised from this community, and I understand that.

I'm glad that you're into all eras (and I really am glad about that), and I've tried to be as diplomatic as possible about my own opinion for the sake of those on this board who are - for want of a better word - 'fanatical'. Bottom line is: I want nothing but success for Meat. I want him to be happy and to go out on top.

That's about as diplomatic as it gets today.

[stretch37]

That was a nice post - and I enjoyed reading it - and I hate to be the one to do it, but I just can't take phrases like 'Comparing Eras is silly. They're all respectable' seriously. I'm not trying to make you feel bad for liking something that I, personally, don't, but consider this: before I started this thread I received messages and emails from users of this forum - and not the ones you would imagine it to be, either - who have wanted to vent over this subject (live vox/visuals/concert tickets/etc. etc.), and I guess they came to me because they felt like they couldn't say what they really wanted to say or express on this board.

I won't name names - they wrote to me in confidence, after all - and I won't discuss what was said, but if they want to put across their own views then I guess now is as good a time as any, and if not, then that's cool too. I'm suspecting 'not', because they don't want to be ostracised from this community, and I understand that.

I'm glad that you're into all eras (and I really am glad about that), and I've tried to be as diplomatic as possible about my own opinion for the sake of those on this board who are - for want of a better word - 'fanatical'. Bottom line is: I want nothing but success for Meat. I want him to be happy and to go out on top.

That's about as diplomatic as it gets today.

I think that that's just as well crafted :) And I might have been one of those people venting. Sometimes I get frustrated and vent, but I don't like to focus on it. If in the moment, Meat did something I hated (Eg. makes me cringe like the end of AFL lately....or when his voice is clearly gone and he continues to reach for retarted notes) I'll be honest with those who I consider friends here. And totally, what is said in private might not always add up to what happens on the public forum.

I like to keep things light on the public forum, and I like to focus on the positive of Meat as much as possible. I am being honest when I say I accept Meat's current form, and his shows as still seeming exciting to me. I'm excited to see him come his Canadian leg on 2 shows (lucky me!!).

I know he's always trying his best and pushing himself, and putting all of himself into it, so I try to respect that and be friendly.

I guess some people would call that two faced, but if Meat were to ask me, I'm pretty sure I'm being just as supportive as Deborah. I'll tell him if I think he sounded great, and where I think he didn't.

I'd expect that of my wife with my soundcloud recordings, because it helps me continue to improve.

Phew. I'm glad I got that off my chest finally. I was beginning to feel guilty :twisted:

[loaferman61]

That was a nice post - and I enjoyed reading it - and I hate to be the one to do it, but I just can't take phrases like 'Comparing Eras is silly. They're all respectable' seriously. I'm not trying to make you feel bad for liking something that I, personally, don't, but consider this: before I started this thread I received messages and emails from users of this forum - and not the ones you would imagine it to be, either - who have wanted to vent over this subject (live vox/visuals/concert tickets/etc. etc.), and I guess they came to me because they felt like they couldn't say what they really wanted to say or express on this board.

I won't name names - they wrote to me in confidence, after all - and I won't discuss what was said, but if they want to put across their own views then I guess now is as good a time as any, and if not, then that's cool too. I'm suspecting 'not', because they don't want to be ostracised from this community, and I understand that.

I'm glad that you're into all eras (and I really am glad about that), and I've tried to be as diplomatic as possible about my own opinion for the sake of those on this board who are - for want of a better word - 'fanatical'. Bottom line is: I want nothing but success for Meat. I want him to be happy and to go out on top.

That's about as diplomatic as it gets today.

Well said. It is true that it is pretty easy to get "ostracized" (or worse). You also address the "fanatical" aspect very nicely. Unlike some I have no problem expressing my opinions (some call them "trolling" but do not know what the word means apparently) since I have been a fan since '78 shortly before Bat broke big nationally when some friends brought a copy back from a trip they went on. I just have opinions too.

I think your last sentence puts it best.

[Monstro]

Thanks both! I'll try and remember that.

Please do, I'm doing overtime here lol

[anotherday]

BD8hdW6JMyU

I quite enjoy this, even if the beginning is rough due to monitor issues.

[Dick]

Also, 2006, I really like this performance (and the shirt and the jacket!):

NQ7Bi3tyVSc

I really like this one also, the shirt, the jacket...and the hair! Meat if you're reading this grow your hair out again for braver and find that wardrobe.

[Evil Ernie]

Well said. It is true that it is pretty easy to get "ostracized" (or worse). You also address the "fanatical" aspect very nicely. Unlike some I have no problem expressing my opinions (some call them "trolling" but do not know what the word means apparently) since I have been a fan since '78 shortly before Bat broke big nationally when some friends brought a copy back from a trip they went on. I just have opinions too.

I think your last sentence puts it best.

Well said.

I will always see him live if I have the opportunity, but in all honesty his voice hasn't been the same since the late 90's.

He is a hero of mine and I will defend him to the day that I die to people who aren't fans and judge him by YouTube clips alone. However, among fans who love him I don't see any reason not to admit that he may have lost a step or two.

However, I respect the people of this forum and I try not to express it too much.

[stretch37]

Well said.

I will always see him live if I have the opportunity, but in all honesty his voice hasn't been the same since the late 90's.

He is a hero of mine and I will defend him to the day that I die to people who aren't fans and judge him by YouTube clips alone. However, among fans who love him I don't see any reason not to admit that he may have lost a step or two.

However, I respect the people of this forum and I try not to express it too much.

Wonderfully said Ernie. I think that reflects my feelings as well. A stop or two lost, perhaps, but I love him more than ever as an artist and a person, and that step or two he makes up for by just being Meat. He tries so hard and eventually, it always pays off. It's like the secret to a good marriage. Long as you both continue to try, you'll make it.

[lorenzoduke]

Does Meat sound like he did in the 90s? No. Will he ever sound that way again? No. But his performances from 2013 onwards are far better than most of his performances in the decade prior and that's a pretty astonishing feat. He puts on a great show.

[ThatWriterGuy]

Does Meat sound like he did in the 90s? No. Will he ever sound that way again? No. But his performances from 2013 onwards are far better than most of his performances in the decade prior and that's a pretty astonishing feat. He puts on a great show.

To be fair, I don't think anyone really expects Meat to sound like he did in the 90s anymore. They just want to him to sound like the singer they associate with as MEAT LOAF. And that's exactly what a lot of people get. At the same time others don't.

[White of High]

I just watched the videos above and these are very far from good, but even better than any cellphone shooted stuff. Meat's voice was perfect in the 80ies, pretty good in the 90ies but after that he was on a slope. You can explain it with his age or deafness or whatever, the fact, he doesn't sound as he used to be.

My problem with Meat's voice since CHSIB that he still wants to sing as he did in the 70ies. His older voice doesn't fit anymore to Bat, For Crying Out Loud or even Anything For Love. There are a lot of example in pop music how to modifiy a song to fit to your voice but the band doesn't do. Why? Meat is almost 70 years old, his voice became deeper but the songs are not. This is the reason he sounds dissonant in almost every video (including official ones) they shooted in the 21st century.

Sorry guys, I can't enjoy his singing for 15 years and that's a shame. :(

[loaferman61]

To be fair, I don't think anyone really expects Meat to sound like he did in the 90s anymore. They just want to him to sound like the singer they associate with as MEAT LOAF. And that's exactly what a lot of people get. At the same time others don't.

That last line really nails it. There are some who will never be satisfied, some who will never hear less than greatness, and those who fall in between. It is kind of like the Stones sang you can't always get what you want but sometimes you get what you need.

As far as in studio I at least can tell a difference vocally between HCTB and HIAH. Live it is all over the place now and if you just accept that is what you're going to get you will see an amazing performer who commands the stage in character. Understandably due to age and surgeries he doesn't seem to stalk the stage like a sweaty maniac as much, and I think he might be using a back brace so I can cut him slack on that.

Also for his health it is probably wise to keep the shows at a certain length. I'd still shorten "Paradise" and add something else, but I have been saying that for what seems like decades. I know he has to do that one though to avoid disappointing the audience..

As was said before it is not like we don't all want what is best for him, but at the same time there are some things it seems ridiculous to pretend not to notice. The fact that I had to go over this post as much as I did to avoid (probably in futility) offending anyone shows how touchy this can be.

If he chooses to tour within 5 hours drive of here I fully intend to go and I will be OK with it. It all has to do with expectations and reality. He can still put on a show.

[CarylB]

... I think he might be using a back brace so I can cut him slack on that.

He IS wearing a back brace ... or at least was on the first US leg this year; not because of the surgeries he had last year, but due to a prolapsed disc that has since then developed. He needs an operation for that, but deferred it because of his commitment to the tour, and is likely to wear it for the Canada leg. Considering this, his foot, and the knee replacement which was not the success he expected, he covers that stage amazingly well. I take my hat off to his fortitude and total commitment to what he lives to do :-)

[eltmatt]

Great thread, I agree with most of what has been said. He is not as good as he was in the 90's or early 00's. But I don't expect him to be, neither are my other favourite singers like Elton John. I can't wait to see Meat in the UK again next year :p