Vocal Showdown: Artists Who Can Sing Vs. Those Who Can't

Dominique Leffler 25 Jun 2025

In the ever-evolving landscape of music and viral internet trends, a fascinating and often hilarious debate has taken center stage: the showdown between artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing. What started as an ironic trend on platforms like TikTok, playfully comparing the vocal abilities of different musicians, has blossomed into a widespread cultural phenomenon. It’s a discussion that not only sparks laughter but also prompts deeper questions about what truly defines musical talent in the 21st century.

This viral meme, often dubbed ‘rappers that can sing vs rappers that can’t sing,’ or more broadly, ‘artists who can sing vs artists who can’t sing,’ highlights a curious paradox in the entertainment industry. While vocal prowess has traditionally been a cornerstone of musical success, today's audiences seem to appreciate a broader spectrum of artistic expression. From operatic highs to deliberately off-key performances, the internet has become a stage where every vocal style, or lack thereof, can find its audience and spark a conversation.

The Viral Phenomenon: "Artists Who Can Sing vs. Artists Who Can't"
- The Meme's Origins and Cultural Impact
- Why This Comparison Resonates
Defining "Singing Ability": More Than Just Pitch
The Power of Performance: Beyond Vocal Prowess
Case Study: Beabadoobee – A Deeper Look at "Artists Who Can't Sing"
- Beabadoobee: Biography
- Beabadoobee: Personal Data & Biodata
Case Study: NBA YoungBoy – The Rapper's Vocal Journey
- NBA YoungBoy: Biography
- NBA YoungBoy: Personal Data & Biodata
The Business of Music: Talent vs. Marketability
Audience Perception: What Do Listeners Truly Value?
Navigating the Nuances: The Future of Musical Talent

The Viral Phenomenon: "Artists Who Can Sing vs. Artists Who Can't"

The internet, particularly TikTok, has a unique way of distilling complex discussions into digestible, often humorous, formats. The "artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing" meme is a prime example. It juxtaposes clips of musicians known for their powerful, technically proficient vocals (like opera singers or pop divas) with those whose live performances might be perceived as off-key, strained, or simply unconventional. The humor often lies in the stark contrast and the ironic appreciation for the latter.

The Meme's Origins and Cultural Impact

This meme, also known as ‘rappers that can sing vs rappers that can’t sing,’ gained traction through ironic edits that highlight the perceived vocal disparities. It's a form of "brainrot" content – highly shareable, often nonsensical, but undeniably engaging videos that stick in your mind. Examples often feature Beabadoobee as an artist cited in the "can't sing" category, and sometimes NBA YoungBoy in the "can sing" (or ironically "can't sing") category, depending on the specific edit's intent. The meme's virality speaks to a collective amusement and a willingness to poke fun at the traditional definitions of musical talent. It's not always a genuine critique of an artist's ability, but rather a playful exploration of how different sounds resonate with different audiences.

Why This Comparison Resonates

The appeal of the "artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing" meme lies in its relatability and the inherent human tendency to compare. We've all heard incredible singers and, perhaps, those who struggle to hit a note. The meme simply amplifies this everyday experience into a public spectacle. It taps into our collective understanding of what good singing "should" sound like, while simultaneously challenging that very notion. It invites viewers to join the laughter and enjoy the performance, regardless of whether it's technically perfect or delightfully flawed. This trend encourages a more open-minded view of music, where authenticity and personality can sometimes overshadow pristine vocal execution.

Defining "Singing Ability": More Than Just Pitch

When we talk about artists who can sing, we often immediately think of perfect pitch, powerful belting, and intricate vocal runs. However, the definition of "singing ability" is far more nuanced. It encompasses elements like vocal control, breath support, emotional delivery, unique timbre, and the ability to convey a message or mood. A singer might not have a traditionally "beautiful" voice but could possess incredible storytelling capabilities through their raw, unpolished delivery. Think of artists like Bob Dylan or Tom Waits, whose voices are distinctive and integral to their artistry, despite not conforming to conventional notions of vocal perfection. The discussion of artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing often oversimplifies this complexity. Moreover, the recording studio allows for extensive post-production, including auto-tune and vocal layering, which can mask or enhance a singer's natural abilities. Live performances, on the other hand, offer a raw, unfiltered look at an artist's true vocal talent. This disparity between studio recordings and live shows often fuels the "artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing" debate, as audiences discover the unvarnished reality behind the polished tracks.

The Power of Performance: Beyond Vocal Prowess

In many genres, especially hip-hop, punk, and certain indie styles, the overall performance, stage presence, lyrical content, and emotional connection often outweigh strict vocal proficiency. An artist who can't sing in the traditional sense might still deliver an electrifying performance that captivates an audience. This could involve dynamic stage movements, engaging crowd interaction, compelling storytelling through lyrics, or simply an undeniable charisma that transcends vocal limitations. Consider the energy of a punk rock concert or the intricate flow of a skilled rapper. These performances rely less on melodic perfection and more on raw energy, rhythmic precision, and lyrical impact. The audience isn't necessarily there to hear perfectly pitched notes; they're there for the experience, the message, and the artist's unique vibe. This shift in focus is crucial to understanding why the "artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing" meme exists and why some artists thrive despite not being "singers" in the classical sense. It highlights that musical talent is multifaceted and not confined to a single dimension of vocal ability.

Case Study: Beabadoobee – A Deeper Look at "Artists Who Can't Sing"

Beabadoobee, born Beatrice Kristi Laus, is often cited in the "artists who can't sing" category within the meme context. This categorization, however, oversimplifies her artistic merit and appeal. Her music, characterized by lo-fi indie rock and bedroom pop aesthetics, often features a soft, almost conversational vocal style that prioritizes mood and intimacy over technical bravado.

Beabadoobee: Biography

Beatrice Kristi Laus, known professionally as Beabadoobee, is a Filipino-British singer-songwriter. Born in Iloilo City, Philippines, and raised in London, UK, she began writing music at age 17 after learning to play the guitar. Her distinctive sound, blending elements of indie rock, lo-fi, and alternative pop, quickly garnered attention online. She signed with Dirty Hit Records in 2018 and rose to prominence with her song "Coffee" and later gained widespread recognition when her 2017 song "Death Bed (Coffee for Your Head)" was remixed by Canadian rapper Powfu and went viral on TikTok in 2020. Her debut album, "Fake It Flowers," released in 2020, received critical acclaim, cementing her status as a significant voice in contemporary indie music. Her career trajectory demonstrates how a unique artistic vision and authentic sound can resonate deeply with a global audience, even if her vocal delivery isn't conventionally "perfect."

Beabadoobee: Personal Data & Biodata

Full Name	Beatrice Kristi Laus
Stage Name	Beabadoobee
Date of Birth	June 3, 2000
Place of Birth	Iloilo City, Philippines
Nationality	Filipino-British
Genre(s)	Indie Rock, Bedroom Pop, Lo-fi, Alternative
Occupation	Singer-songwriter
Years Active	2017–present
Record Label	Dirty Hit
Notable Works	"Coffee," "Death Bed (Coffee for Your Head)," "Care," "Fake It Flowers" (Album)

When discussing Beabadoobee in the context of "artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing," it's important to understand that her vocal style is often a deliberate artistic choice. Her raw, sometimes fragile delivery adds to the authenticity and emotional depth of her songs, making her relatable to a generation that values genuine expression over polished perfection. Her live performances, while sometimes varying in vocal precision, are often praised for their intimate atmosphere and connection with the audience. The meme using her as an example often takes snippets out of context, focusing on moments that might appear vocally imperfect, rather than appreciating the overall artistic intent and impact of her music.

Case Study: NBA YoungBoy – The Rapper's Vocal Journey

Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, famously known as NBA YoungBoy (or YoungBoy Never Broke Again), is a prolific American rapper whose vocal delivery is often a subject of discussion within the "artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing" meme, albeit in a more complex way. While primarily a rapper, his music often incorporates melodic elements, and his voice can convey a range of emotions, from aggression to vulnerability.

NBA YoungBoy: Biography

Born on October 20, 1999, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, NBA YoungBoy emerged from humble beginnings to become one of the most streamed artists in the world. He began making music at a young age, releasing his first mixtape in 2015. His unique blend of melodic trap, raw lyricism, and distinctive vocal inflections quickly captivated a massive fanbase. Despite numerous legal challenges and personal struggles, YoungBoy has maintained an incredibly prolific output, consistently releasing mixtapes, EPs, and albums that frequently top charts. His music often delves into themes of street life, loyalty, and personal hardship, resonating deeply with his audience. His live singing, as featured in various concert highlights and "NBA YoungBoy live singing" clips, showcases a different facet of his artistry, often surprising listeners with his ability to carry a tune or convey emotion through melody, even if his primary strength lies in rapping.

NBA YoungBoy: Personal Data & Biodata
Full Name Kentrell DeSean Gaulden
Stage Name NBA YoungBoy, YoungBoy Never Broke Again
Date of Birth October 20, 1999
Place of Birth Baton Rouge, Louisiana, U.S.
Nationality American
Genre(s) Hip Hop, Trap, Melodic Rap
Occupation Rapper, Singer, Songwriter
Years Active 2015–present
Record Label Atlantic Records, Never Broke Again
Notable Works "Outside Today," "Bandit," "Kacey Talk," "AI YoungBoy 2" (Mixtape), "Top" (Album)
NBA YoungBoy's inclusion in the "artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing" meme often highlights his surprising vocal range and melodic capabilities, especially in contrast to the typical expectations of a rapper. While his primary mode of expression is rapping, he frequently incorporates sung hooks and bridges into his tracks. Videos showcasing "youngboy singing in car" or "nba yb concert insights" often go viral because they reveal a raw, sometimes unpolished, but undeniably emotive vocal talent that goes beyond mere spoken word. This demonstrates that even within genres not traditionally focused on "singing," vocal ability can manifest in unexpected and impactful ways, challenging the rigid categories of the meme.

The Business of Music: Talent vs. Marketability

The music industry is a complex ecosystem where artistic talent intersects with marketability, trends, and audience demand. The debate of artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing becomes particularly interesting when viewed through a commercial lens. Sometimes, an artist's unique personality, compelling backstory, or ability to create viral content can be more valuable to a record label than perfect vocal pitch. The rise of social media platforms like TikTok has democratized music discovery, allowing artists to bypass traditional gatekeepers and connect directly with fans. This has given a platform to diverse talents, including those who might not fit the mold of a conventional "singer." A song's virality can be driven by a catchy beat, relatable lyrics, or even a specific dance challenge, rather than just the vocal performance. This means that an artist who might be labeled as "can't sing" in a technical sense could still achieve massive commercial success due to other compelling attributes. The industry is increasingly focused on creating "moments" and fostering authentic connections, and sometimes, a raw, unpolished voice is exactly what resonates most powerfully with a contemporary audience.

Audience Perception: What Do Listeners Truly Value?

Ultimately, the success and longevity of an artist depend heavily on audience perception and what listeners truly value. Do they prioritize flawless vocal technique, or are they drawn to authenticity, emotional depth, and a unique artistic vision? The "artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing" meme, while humorous, implicitly asks this question. For many, music is about feeling. A voice that is technically imperfect but deeply expressive can evoke stronger emotions than one that is technically perfect but lacks soul. Listeners often connect with vulnerability, rawness, and the human element in a performance. The popularity of artists like Beabadoobee and NBA YoungBoy, despite the meme's playful critiques, suggests that a significant portion of the audience values artistic capabilities in music that extend beyond traditional singing skills. They appreciate the overall "vibe," the lyrical narrative, the beat, and the artist's persona. This diverse appreciation is what keeps the music landscape vibrant and constantly evolving. Amazing singing moments and impressive musical performances come in many forms, not just opera and concerts.

Navigating the Nuances: The Future of Musical Talent

The "artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing" debate is more than just a viral trend; it's a reflection of the changing definitions of musical talent and success. In an era where technology can perfect a voice and social media can launch careers overnight, authenticity and unique artistic vision are becoming increasingly valuable. The future of musical talent lies not in a rigid adherence to traditional vocal standards, but in embracing the vast spectrum of human expression. Whether an artist possesses the angelic singing of a Pavarotti or a raw, unfiltered vocal delivery, what truly matters is their ability to connect with an audience, tell a story, and create something meaningful. So, join the laughter and enjoy the performance, but also take a moment to explore the differences between talented artists and those lacking vocal skills, and discover insights into their performances. The music world is richer for its diversity, and every voice, regardless of its technical perfection, has the potential to move us.

Conclusion

The "artists who can sing vs artists who can't sing" phenomenon, driven by viral content on platforms like TikTok, serves as a humorous yet insightful commentary on the modern music industry. It highlights that while vocal ability remains a significant aspect of musical artistry, it is by no means the sole determinant of an artist's impact or success. From the intimate, raw vocals of Beabadoobee to the melodic flows of NBA YoungBoy, artists today connect with audiences through a multitude of strengths, including songwriting, performance, personality, and sheer authenticity. Ultimately, the power of music lies in its ability to evoke emotion and forge connections, regardless of whether a voice is technically perfect or beautifully flawed. We encourage you to explore the amusing showdown between singers who can and can't sing, and delve deeper into the diverse world of musical talent. What are your thoughts on this debate? Share your favorite artists who defy conventional vocal expectations in the comments below! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more discussions on music and pop culture.

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