Snap judgment: Clay Aiken's 'On My Way Here'

donna Tue, Jul 8, 2008 at 12:08 PM EST

After reading your review, I listened to AOL first listen and couldn't beleive you call yourself a music critic. These are some of the best songs I've heard in a long time. I have given up listening to the radio, as they play the same songs again and again. Clay Aiken has one of the best voices I've heard in a long time. I guess being able to hit all the notes is a no-no in music today...I bought this CD and downloaded it to my I-Pod because the gym I belong to has your taste in music. Most everyone at the gym listens to their I-Pods rather than the radio. This should tell you something about how the public veiws the critics and the radio.

AncestralYuba Sun, Jul 6, 2008 at 03:48 AM EST

"On My Way Here" is a brilliant collection. I don't regularly follow pop music, but Aiken's vocal gifts are undeniable. I bought this CD and I love it.

lovin_music Thu, May 15, 2008 at 04:05 PM EST

I have seen that on YouTube, as well as heard the album on AOL. Actually, I really liked it. The instrumentals are exciting, and his voice has always been great. Together, I think they are fantastic! I already bought an album and am enjoying it.

lovin_music Thu, May 15, 2008 at 04:05 PM EST

I have seen that on YouTube, as well as heard the album on AOL. Actually, I really liked it. The instrumentals are exciting, and his voice has always been great. Together, I think they are fantastic! I already bought an album and am enjoying it.

suyen Tue, May 13, 2008 at 11:01 PM EST

well...i think that the song isn't all that bad..it's different from the songs on the radio nowadays and i might never here it on the radio..lol..but i like listening to the man sing..his voice is great!
the other songs on the album are just as nice as this one and even better!!
go listen to the whole album before you judge clay and the songs! XD

Stephanie Thu, May 8, 2008 at 07:54 PM EST

I'm a Clay fan, but I hate this song. Except for the sappy, and at the same time, depressing, beginning about taking his first steps and his parents breaking up, it sounds like the soundtrack of a Disney cartoon.

The whole CD is a boring, depressing snoozefest. And what happened to his wonderful, rich voice? It sounds thin and like every other pop star's on this CD. Oh - and I HAVE heard the better quality version - makes no difference - still awful.

I give the CD a very disappointed two thumbs DOWN.

andie Sun, May 4, 2008 at 04:46 AM EST

Snap Judgement is right but woah! I'm not a fan but my bro works in radio and got an advanced copy of the whole CD. I listened and am impressed that Aiken does some nice rock and some blues/jazz. This CD is a nice mix of different styles. Give the whole CD a listen before making that snap judgement. NOT JUST FOR CLAYMATES DUDE!!! Definitely a major improvement from his first chart topping CD. Aiken has grown up and his voice is great on all of this.

sa Sat, May 3, 2008 at 11:58 PM EST

I know with the last album he managed to sing all love songs without using the words she, her, woman, girl. How about this one?

CrazyForClayAiken Sat, May 3, 2008 at 11:10 PM EST

Oh Yes, and I like the New Song. Clay is also a God Fearing Man, so most of the Singing He does is for the Lord as well. When you sing for the Lord, you can't go wrong :)

CrazyForClayAiken Sat, May 3, 2008 at 11:04 PM EST

All These Comments about Hair,Voice and Blah,Blah ,Blah. Ok so Clay Aiken isn't or hasn't always been the most attractive and ya, maybe latlely he has gotten to be a bit of a Jerk-But Hey who wouldn't with all the Bad Press and Gimmicks going on around Him 24/7. Heck I would have crakced along time ago. As For Voice- Not one of you can deny that the Man can Sing. I mean, when he sings-It lights up the room. If you close your eyes it takes you away. Now I think thats pretty darnd Attractive. As for popularity and "Radio Time" He's all over the net these days and making plenty of Tv Time too- Who needs Radio! Call Me Crazy ,but I think Clay Aiken is Alright-Yes, I would Marry Him....Oops, did I say that outloud.

sjdrj Fri, May 2, 2008 at 11:55 AM EST

Already preordered on iTunes.. last week.

Michael Wed, Apr 23, 2008 at 12:11 PM EST

Slezak, you are totally off base. Love the song, and although it borders on cliche, it feels true. You just don't like him because he is reportedly still in the closet. Frankly, Clay can outsing any of the male performers on Idol this year, who are supposedly the best talent ever, and are boring. There are a lot of people who like to hear a quality voice singing as opposed to synthesized sound effects or rythmic talk singing.

matto Wed, Apr 23, 2008 at 05:35 AM EST

The Critique Criticized:
I am guessing you are not considering yourself a reasonably serious music critic, Mr. Slezak, because I am sorry to say that but you write like an average strongly biased music listener. I am aware of the fact that Clay Aiken evokes strong, polarized emotions in people and you are obviously 'on the other side' still you should be able to put yourself together before you attempt to write something relevant. What you leave behind is an opinion, which cannot be referred to as a professional critique.

'On my way here' is not the best song ever, still it is better that most songs that get played on pop radio. One can always quarrel about the lyrics, arrangements and music, still Clay Aiken's emotional intelligence combined with his vocal abilities allow him to take every song to the places most vocalists can only dream of.

It is also not polite to use such a poor rip of this song while asking the public's opinion on it!

Ann Tue, Apr 22, 2008 at 12:40 AM EST

I've listened to the snippets of this album and all I can is I CAN'T WAIT. I don't even consider myself a Claymate and I've never seen a single episode of American Idol..yup it's true and I'm late in the game since I had to buy his first two CDs just to discover what it is about his voice and let's just say it's an amazing voice. I would put it up there with Josh Groban, Celine Dion etc..just amazing.

SmokeOnTheWater Mon, Apr 21, 2008 at 07:14 PM EST

Wow. That was removed fast. You can also listen to the snippets here, on a legimate site.
http://ifun.simobil.net/ifun/ui/ifun/template/web,PublicLibrary.vm;jsessionid=AB1DFADFA1F35B14740AA5A3E9552094?top_id=15&cat_id=626

SmokeOnTheWater Mon, Apr 21, 2008 at 08:47 AM EST

Here you can listen to a snippet from each song on the new album, On My Way Here.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=39difKcA4uc

There are upbeat songs and slower ones and something for everyone. No, he's not going to sing rap or something like Sexy Back, but that's not who he is. If you don't like who he is, that's cool. For those of us who do, we're anxiously awaiting the album's release. Personally, I think Ashes should have been released first but that's just because it's my favorite.

Trish Sun, Apr 20, 2008 at 10:20 PM EST

Beautiful song. You can watch him record it on Ideal Idol or amazon. For those who don't like him, why waste your time posting? Kipper, the English producer of the album, David Foster, Neil Sedaka and others in the business are very impressed by Clay Aikens voice. Also, he has an absolutely enormous fanbase, raging from pre-teens on up to seniors. There's a reason his fans are so loyal. Besides having an incredible voice, he has character and integrity.

nance Sun, Apr 20, 2008 at 01:39 AM EST

Are you nuts. The song is beautiful and so is Clay's voice. In fact it is already an earwig for me. I love it and I think millions of others will too.

michael Thu, Apr 17, 2008 at 01:37 PM EST

I actually like this song. Amazingly, his "failure" of a cover album went gold, something that took all of AIs power and pimping to get Jordan's album to do. I liked this song, and look forward to the album.

cindy Mon, Apr 14, 2008 at 08:47 PM EST

I would like to ask a question of those who have given this a negative review. Are you a fan or even a casual fan?

There are a lot of performers out there that I don't like and I would never take the time to go and rate or should I say bash their music. If I don't like them I wouldn't even bother. Why do you? Why is it necessary to come and comment on someone you obviously don't like?

It is like deliberately going to a restaurant you don't like and ordering a dish you don't like and then telling the waiter "I hate this!", what is the point?

Those who are fans, yes you have the right to comment & be negative but those who obviously don't like this performer, why bother????????

cindy Sun, Apr 13, 2008 at 04:30 PM EST

Okay I have listened to this song several times. Yes, it is a song that will only speak to certain people. People who have maybe experienced these things. But IT DOES speak, not a lot of unrecognizeable words. It actually has a melody and a point. Unusual for most songs you hear on the radio.
Shame on him for that!

But I am holding my judgement until I hear the entire album, one song does not make the entire CD good or bad. I think it just might be a winner! He has promised a lot more edgier stuff so let's just wait and see.

Snap judgements just may be this particular reviewer's way when it comes to Mr. Aiken.

I gotta tell you one thing, I did see him in Spamalot and "damn" he was good!

WHORU? Sat, Apr 12, 2008 at 02:48 PM EST

I think the fact that Sleaze-ACK! didn't even put Aiken in the Top 10 of his Best Idol Performances Ever says it all. That was a crock and so is this review. I mean, you could at least try to pretend that you don't hate the artist already. But Clay will be fine because there are plenty of people who admire his many talents. If a CD of cover love songs can sell GOLD with minimum promotion, no radio, no videos, lousy retail placement & bogus tabloid garbage clouding the music, then this album is guaranteed PLATINUM at the very least! And once again, Clay laughs all the way to the bank.....

Rita Sat, Apr 12, 2008 at 04:37 AM EST

I have heard it over and over. It is so BEAUTIFUL. If you read his book..You will know how it truly fits him. He has come through so much and his faith is strong.

Rita Sat, Apr 12, 2008 at 04:37 AM EST

I have heard it over and over. It is so BEAUTIFUL. If you read his book..You will know how it truly fits him. He has come through so much and his faith is strong.

sam Thu, Apr 10, 2008 at 06:46 PM EST

Clay himself has stated that he has been blackballed by the powers that be in the radio industry, so why should he bother to try to phoney up his style to fit radio? This is a lovely piece of music, perfect for film or TV placement. In fact, if AI had any since, they would have used it for the "Goodbye" song this season, instead of that disappointingly lame version of CELEBRATE ME HOME they had Ruben record.

sam Thu, Apr 10, 2008 at 06:46 PM EST

Clay himself has stated that he has been blackballed by the powers that be in the radio industry, so why should he bother to try to phoney up his style to fit radio? This is a lovely piece of music, perfect for film or TV placement. In fact, if AI had any since, they would have used it for the "Goodbye" song this season, instead of that disappointingly lame version of CELEBRATE ME HOME they had Ruben record.

summer Thu, Apr 10, 2008 at 10:27 AM EST

I love it. and I"m not a regular fan of his, but I DO like many of his songs and I like him as a person. He has a really nice voice and I think this song is beautiful, and has hopeful lyrics. I dont know where you're looking, but I've seen plenty of good reviews on him too. You dont like him? Dont listen to him then! That's all there is to it.

Melissa Thu, Apr 10, 2008 at 08:13 AM EST

What are you talking about? Clay's voice is amazing as ever and this song is beautiful. I was excited to hear it before it came out, but it far exceeded my expectations. The clip you have is not clear, so it doesn't sound as good as the one on Popstar, but here is a link for anyone who wants to hear a clearer version of it: http://www.popeater.com/2008/04/07/clay-aiken-on-my-way-here-song-premiere/

Johnny Wed, Apr 9, 2008 at 05:23 PM EST

Hotshortie, if an artist "never ever ever" gets good reviews, isn't it possible that has more to do with the work they put out than with the "DNA" of critics?

Johnny Wed, Apr 9, 2008 at 05:13 PM EST

Necile, funny that Clay Aiken himself said his lack of radio airplay is NOT due to payola in a recent interview. Maybe he's one of the people you're calling "stupid" and "gullible"?

Hotshortie Wed, Apr 9, 2008 at 02:21 PM EST

They are never going to like Clay. He could save the world and they will always say he's bland. They will always hate him. They will never ever, ever give him a good review. It's not in their DNA. Seriously, when Clay secretly sings on a cd they give him great reviews but when he uses his name, they are wired to give him bad reviews. We all know it. He will never ever, ever get a good review!!!!!

Necile Wed, Apr 9, 2008 at 11:17 AM EST

"You think Justin Timberlake or Sara Bareilles are only on the radio because of payola?"

Yep. Buy a clue, Johnny. Or better yet, buy "Hitmen." The public is not as stupid or gullible as you would like them to be.

And HKJ, you're sounding like a broken record all over the internet. Go back and worship at your altar of Kelly Clarkson and get over your insane jealousy and insecurity.

HKJ Wed, Apr 9, 2008 at 10:57 AM EST

The poor sales of his last CD must have really hurt Clay, as he can apparently no longer afford all of the hair product he once could. His voice is also nowhere near the level it was once at, sounding tired and strained.

I remember Clay speaking publicly about being medicated for anxiety. Has his use of drugs led to the deterioration in his looks and sound?

Could this explain the Jekyll/Hyde imbalance in his personality, seemingly sweet and nice at times, yet being prone to diva-fits and acts of jerktitude that are well documented.

It is such a sad state when former stars fall apart under the glare of the spotlight.

Johnny Wed, Apr 9, 2008 at 04:05 AM EST

Some of these comments are funny! Reviews are "biased," and just one guy's "opinion"? Well, yeah, isn't that what reviews are?

What's all this talk about "payola"? Wasn't the payola scandal back in the 50s? You think Justin Timberlake or Sara Bareilles are only on the radio because of payola?

And why would Clive Davis or RCA want albums THEY release to fail? What an interesting business model! Do you think that's how Clive got rich, putting out albums then deliberately making sure they don't get played? Some people here are quite deluded.

alyssa Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 11:12 PM EST

Clay Aiken is the most talented,sweetest,and gentleman-like guy anyone could ever meet! Stop raggin' on him,people...he's AWESOME!!!=)

nicole Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 11:01 PM EST

It Really Doesn't Matter What All The Clay Haters Say,He Sings For His Fans Only!! And A Very Beautiful Voice He Has Too.You Go Clay!!!

Megan Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 09:05 PM EST

i love it he is amazing

amy Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 07:05 PM EST

Y'all doggin' on the hair color...I believe that Clay's natural hair color is strawberry blond so perhaps he just doesn't want to have to keep up with dyeing it all the time. Keeping up with reverse roots is tough...makes you look like you have gray hair when you're naturally a lighter shade. Whatevs. I've seen worse.

As to the rest? Pffft. Those that enjoy the guy aren't gonna stop just because others DON'T. It'd be better all around if everyone just stuck with their own peeps...but Slezak did ask, so there ya go. Open door and all that...

Me? Dude can sing. This song? Not the best I've ever heard, not the worst. Just alright. But better than many getting beaucoup play, so who the hell knows, eh?

Peace!

Neverafan Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 03:30 PM EST

Pesonally I think that Ryan Tedder knew exactly what a snorfest he had on his hands with this song and peddled it to a mediocre talent like Faiken where it would get little to no airplay.

Gaddy Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 01:44 PM EST

It sounds like one of the American Idol coronation songs.

mom Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 12:04 PM EST

If I told you not say anything if it wasn't nice that means to not mention that, well, what you WOULD say isn't nice.

Go to your room, valsky!

The song's not bad; not superb either, but not as bad as some that gets repeated airplay.

He has a strong voice and style...some just don't care for it. Some do, hence he's richer than me and many others posting here.

Ce le vie!

Stephanie T. Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 11:26 AM EST

Okay Clay, now's the time to go back to the spikey haircut you had from Idol 2. Just because you like ABBA as much as I do, does not mean that you have to dye your hair blonde!

valsky Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 11:15 AM EST

My mother always said if I don't have anything nice to say than don't say it at all, so here's my review of the song:

Don Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 10:07 AM EST

If Fantasia or JHud had sung it Michael would be creaming himself over it. They can do no wrong in Mikey's world and Clay can do no right.

WTF ever.

Larry Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 09:45 AM EST

Obviously, Ryan Tedder shares the blame for creating such a poor song, but Clay's performance does it no favors. I think they are both to blame, but it is Clay's name which is the "selling" point, so he is inevitably going to have to shoulder the brunt of the blame. But really, why should Ryan Tedder get a pass for writing this song?

Joan Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 09:11 AM EST

Sounds like an Idol coronation song.

Carl Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 07:43 AM EST

Love this song. Just wonderful vocals.
What is not to like about it.

Tue, Apr 8, 2008 at 04:30 AM EST

Wow! Why did Gay, i mean Clay dye his hair blond? Anytime soon, he'd be looking like Michael Jackson by way of a young Gene Wilder. Eeeww! Hehehe.

HandyMan Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 11:38 PM EST

Well, the YouTube vid has been taken down, but AOL has the First Listen at PopEater. My wife & I were talking this morning about how long it would take EW to bash the song. LOL! You guys are so predictable with your Clayhate. It sounds like you didn't even realize that wonder boy Ryan Tedder wrote this, so what kind of music critic are you, anyway? Obviously, if an artist considered cool by those who consider themselves tragically hip had released this song, you'd be fawning all over its brilliance & there'd probably be a Grammy in the offing. Hey, if John Mayer can win one for his insipid "Daughters", anything's possible.

dj jade Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 11:24 PM EST

How exactly can you claim to be "disappointed", Slezak? You've never ever liked anything about Clay. Your attempts to "review" this track with claims of neutrality are hysterical. If you were any kind of a music journalist, you would hand the reveiw off to someone on the EW staff who isn't such a jerk. If there are any.

sam jacks Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 11:17 PM EST

Not a bad tune for Aiken. Interested in hearing the whole CD before I purchase, tho.

daryl Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 09:51 PM EST

Tedder from One Republic is a great lyricist, and this song is no exception. Parts of the song have simplistic lyrics, but they are meaningful and fit the mood of the song perfectly. Aiken does a good job, I think. I would download this song.

Happy Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 09:48 PM EST

yawn. will the real Clay please stand up.

Bella Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 09:14 PM EST

Love, love LOVE this song!

Les Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 08:56 PM EST

Heard it. Corny crap. Below average singer.

Gerry Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 08:46 PM EST

Intriguing production, I love Clay's voice and am glad to see him telling his story with his own sound and not sounding like yet another radio clone.

Donna Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 07:45 PM EST

Pretty song. I guess bashing on it is actually bashing on Tedder -- the new wonder boy. Interesting that his other work is good by not this one huh. Probably this would have been a good song if sung by a Clive favorite or pet too huh.

Nothing like being totally predictable. As well as the "non-fans" and former fans who always show up. Funny I don't follow people I'm no longer a fan of. Too little time in life.

This song is good and will speak to a lot of people with what it says. Hey, it's a lot better than talking about concrete and birds flying away. Again, guess it's all perspective and who pays who.

Necile Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 07:10 PM EST

Lilah, has YOUR reputation for being a jerk bought you any more credibility?

Leah Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 06:33 PM EST

I guess the EW reviewer could have said nice things about Clay or the song, but that would be a lie. Any reviewer has to stand by their opinion. I thought this review made a lot of sense, and having listened to the single myself, I think it was actually much nicer than it really needed to be.

Janine Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 06:26 PM EST

I thought that was pretty cool. Good voice. And my mind didn't wander too much. Did I win or lose the challenge?

Carolyn Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 06:24 PM EST

I have never let any reviewer tell me what I like or don't like, especially someone like Sleazak who has never once liked anything about Clay Aiken..EW is the tabloid of the music industry and this review holds no surprises for me at all..
It's a beautiful song sung by a beautiful man with an incredible voice. Ryan Tedder wrote some beautiful lyrics and Kipper has produced a high quality sound..modern and relevant...Sleazak's opinion not so relevant...

Lilah Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 06:24 PM EST

I get the impression that some of these posters don't read EW reviews regularly or they wouldn't be so stunned by the level of snark. It's what I love about EW.

About the single? It's pretty weak. Why can't Clay get better songwriters? Has his reputation for being a jerk actually sealed his doom?

Cece Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 05:49 PM EST

I actually like it! This should be a good album. Clay has a terrific voice.

Suzanne Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 05:49 PM EST

It's not the catchiest song I've ever heard but I like it way better than most of what he's recorded. The vocals are careful and not all "clay-ized". I think it's a real positive step toward a musical identity. And I think you were a bit harsh, Slezak. (Music reviewers just don't like Clay Aiken.)

Leigha Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 05:48 PM EST

Hey Mikey - why don't you like it? *g* I have to admit the man has some serious pipes. I forget how much I like his voice because he gets no radio play. This sounds as good or betterr than any of the usual stuff on AC

Libra Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 05:37 PM EST

Love it! But I googled AOL First Listen and I like the quality there much better.

Janice Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 05:30 PM EST

"disappointing lyrics"? And I suppose "sexy back" and "you are beautiful to meeeeee" are original lyrics? This is not my favorite song of Clay's, but reviews WITHOUT sarcasm are apparently not within the grasp of EW reviewers. I find the reviews of the posters more informative than anything said during the "real" review. We all know radioplay is dependent on payola and approved playlists anyway - so what is the point of Clay even attempting to get radioplay with any of his songs? With people like you around, they will never get played anyway. However, he will be successful whether he gets played on mainstream radio or not - because Clay is GREAT. Anyone who's ever gone to one of his concerts knows that though.

Armond Leigh Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 05:19 PM EST

Maybe if you were clever you could actually hide your bias. Predictable review from you. Excuse me while I yawn.
Getting back to the song OMWH. I gave this song a listen to. I actually liked it a lot. The song has a very rich, velvety smooth flow to it. The bridge is very catchy. The more you listen to it the more it grabs hold of you. Yea, I like it.

Darlene Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 05:17 PM EST

Why do you bother to write a review? Just ask us fans what we think. I have been a fan of Clay's from the start. He is an inspiration to the music world! There is a lot of crap on the top 40 stations. Can't wait for the CD and finally radio play! There are 11 other songs on it as well. :o) I love this song!

Sally in Chicago Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 05:00 PM EST

His vocals will carry the song. His vocals are very gooooodddd.

Carole Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 04:56 PM EST

This is a beautiful melody and lyric written by Ryan Tedder and sung by the best voice in the country today. The instrumentation is gorgeous and, the song tells a story, which is what Clay sets out to do with this CD. This is the start of the story. Who know what will come next. I understand that the music will be quite varied and will reflect the many kinds of good and bad times he has gone through in the past 5 years "On My Way Here". His production crew is an enormously talented group of people who have worked dilegently with Clay to find the appropriate songs he wanted to make the CD that is completely his. I am so very proud of this song and of this work that has been done. Congratulations to Clay and all those who worked with him.

Cindy Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 04:41 PM EST

Me thinks you are all wet on this one-I love it and I am sure I will also love this album. Your opinion is just that-one person's opinion-so much for that.

Pumpkin Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 04:36 PM EST

This sounds like Clay Aiken. Those who love his voice will love hearing something new. I was hoping for something more upbeat and catchy. Hopefully the CD will have at least one or two things along this line.

Necile Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 04:15 PM EST

Well, Slezak, it sounds like YOU got reviewed. Other than the fake Clay fans who post the same consistent dreck on any board that mentions Clay, you have been exposed for the same old tool you've always been. Did the check from Clive clear yet?

Monica Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 04:14 PM EST

I have always been a huge Clay Fan, but after his last CD of remakes, I was disappointed. And this song doesn't do anything for me. I am enjoying watching him on IDOL REWIND. I miss THAT Clay!

Mary Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 04:13 PM EST

Not the best. Very disappointed.

Jaz Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 04:02 PM EST

Slezak...are you really so misguided that you think your opinion has any relevance to anything? You have no credibility based solely on your extreme bias towards anything Clay Aiken.

Find and dandy that you don't like Clay Aiken, I sure son't lose any sleep over it, but you continually prove that you have the mentality of a schoolyard bully. Grow up.

Arabella Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 03:56 PM EST

I absolutely love Clay's voice. This is a beautiful ballad. I'm looking forward to the rest of the album.

Susan Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 03:54 PM EST

EW and Slezak are consistent. I had a bet with a friend on how long it would take EW to give a review. This is the first review of OMWH...I hope it is the last bias review I read. I am not a music critic, but I do have ears. Clay Aiken's voice is never bland. Love the song.

Lori Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 03:51 PM EST

Just a quick quote from a favorite Broadway production:

"Your mother was a hamster"

LindaRay Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 03:50 PM EST

Dead on analysis of this latest single. His fans deserve better than the trite cliches and sappy sentiment of these ballads that Clay seems determined to sing. His voice also sounds a bit more strained than I remember it being, and his lack of interpretation continues to be a major failing of his. (Though it would be a challenge for anyone to "interpret" a song as badly written as this one is). Dull as dishwater...

April Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 03:46 PM EST

Well, I really love this new single by Clay. His voice is just so wonderful and I love the lyrics. I find it very contemporary and quite moving. Looking forward to the rest of the CD on May 6th.

Alena Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 03:36 PM EST

Man, lyrics that really hit home and mean something? Well, I never. I've never really understood the point of critics. Wish I got paid to flout off my opinion. Tell me, just how did you get this job anyway?

Mike E Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 03:29 PM EST

Why am I not surprised that you would diss this song?? EW is the only critic that said negative things about Clay's broadway debut............all the Drama critics found it wonderful. Your bias is showing.
This song is beautiful and haunting. Honestly, I don't care if it never gets on the radio because I never listen to the radio. I walk to the subway and listen to my IPOD and download what I want from ITunes.
I am sorry that you can't see the beauty of this song or perhaps have such a bias that you refuse to be anything but sour!! Maybe EW should get a reviewer that knows something about music.

Nancy Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 03:22 PM EST

I guess it just depends what kind of music you enjoy and what type of a person you admire. I'm sure Clay is more than proud of the new CD and this song..as he should be!

This song is really great...I can't wait for the rest.

Way to go, Clay!

Anna Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 03:13 PM EST

Clay Aiken is an extremely gifted man. And very intelligent. And very courageous. He has decided to please himself rather than attempt to please you. I think it's more important for an artist to find 'his voice' than to cater to the lowest common denominator.

This is one song. The label chooses the song to be released. He has stated that there are a variety of styles on the album.

That being said, I think the instrumentation on this song is beautiful and interesting. Clay's voice is, as always, clear and emotional.

If it is never played on the radio, I doubt I'll know it because I have given up listening to it. I find much of today's music repetitive and mostly unintelligible.

I find nothing bland about this song. The lyrics, in fact, reflect a universal theme that almost everyone can relate to.

Lorraine Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 03:10 PM EST

I agre with the majority here. There is soooo much garbage music out there,If you want to call it music. This song is really good and a joy to listen to.At least it tells a story and you can understand what he is singing.

Mary Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:58 PM EST

This is a poor quality version, to say the least. Perhaps you should listen to the higher quality version on popeater.com.
Or, maybe you just don't like Clay Aiken.

To each his own.

jan Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:53 PM EST

I listened and really like the song. But I have a feeling that this is not the best song off the CD. I'm a huge Sting fan and long for the days when good music was being played on the radio. The lyrics are pretty well written but yeah I know they are nothing like " I'm bringing Sexy back..Yeah" SNORT!!

June Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:39 PM EST

Sorry -- typo in my post. Should say "I'm sad for you if you CAN'T hear that."

June Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:36 PM EST

It would really be nice to get an unbiased opinion of Clay's music from EW, but I'm not holding my breath. Have you listened to what's out there in music today? Ryan Tedder has written a beautiful song -- and Clay's voice only makes it better. I'm sad for you if you can hear that.

Carol Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:35 PM EST

Well, I did listen - several times, and I love it.
I understand that Ryan Tedder of One Republic who has 2 well-known hits to his credit - "Apologize" & Leona Lewis' "Bleeding Love" also wrote the lyrics & melody to this song. So, are you dissing Ryan Tedder? It seems that your mostly putting down the lyrics & melody. Clay did a beautiful job singing this and the production is top notch. This is FAR BETTER than most of what we hear on the radio.

Beth Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:35 PM EST

Wonderin' how Tedder feels about your trashing of his lyrics. I imagine he shrugs it off the same way Aiken would. The song is really quite lovely. I think it's a keeper.

kt Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:32 PM EST

I have loved watching him evolve from the little country bumpkin to the man he is today. I've been a claymate from the onset. He is self assured and has had to grow up in the midst of the same negative, mean spirited world of criticism that is also aimed at Barry Manilow. He doesn't have to appeal to everyone but to those of us who love and admire him he can do no wrong. He has a warm and caring spirit, he is a sweet soul with an amazing voice. If he's not your cup of tea, move on.

Kathy Cochran Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:32 PM EST

I am with you on this one and I AM a fan. It was a poor choice for a lead single and it doesn't have me coming back for more either.

HOWEVER, I would like to hear your comments on Kylie Minogue. I watched her on Dancing With The Stars. Her voice stunk and the song stunk.

Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:31 PM EST

Ryan Tedder has never written a bad song in his life. Shame on you Slezak.

me Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:30 PM EST

You asked what we thought. I think you should not review an artist that you freely admit not to like. Youa re not impartial. Also you shouldnt use a poor rip of his song to have people hear it..

Jenny Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:28 PM EST

It's a beautiful song, and I can't wait for Clay's new album!

Oh, and who do you think you're kidding? Clay's only problem on pop radio is lack of payola. If RCA pays, the DJs will be all over this song, because it is current, it is catchy, and Ryan Tedder is red-hot right now.

dan Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:21 PM EST

dude, whatcha smokin? i like it! Tedder wrote it if you think the words suck blame him. clay sounds good on it. why you hate so much mikey?

Kendra Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 02:20 PM EST

I really like this song. Love Ryan Tedder's lyrics sung by Clay Aiken.