Post-Gazette Article Argues That Clay and Other Idols Not Given Proper Promotion

An article in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (scroll down to read article online) makes a good argument for RCA not giving Clay, as well as Taylor Hicks, "the proper promotion to both radio and the public." This article has many good points included in it, so I am going to post the whole article below for your consideration.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Not all 'Idols' created equal

Although I agree with Scott Mervis about the successful female "Idols" ('Idol' results: Here's who's up or down, March 15), I have to argue the fact that some of the others have not been given the proper promotion to both radio and the public.

Instead of focusing on "Idol" winner Taylor Hicks, RCA decided to hype Daughtry, who did not even place. Look at the size of his venues to see how confident RCA is or NOT.

Then, of course, look at what Clay Aiken was "mandated," his word, to do for his all-important sophomore CD. It seems RCA has lost its compass with this one. Clay, a multi-platinum proven seller, was all prepared with a CD of new music, and Clive Davis nixed it. Why? Clay and Taylor got no payola to the radio, but I know that is a dirty word.

The business itself seems very dirty to me. It released Daughtry's single weeks before his CD was released. It did nothing of the sort and did not back any singles of Taylor or Clay.

Finally, it would be nice to see an article that goes beneath the veneer, if you know what I mean.

Lee Stevens
Phoenix, Ariz.