Ear Emperor's Scathing Review: Ma Jiaqi's Song Choices Under Fire

The criticism centered around the mismatch between Ma Jiaqi's voice and the arrangement of the songs he performed. For the sixth episode, Ma Jiaqi sang "云与海" (Clouds and Sea), a song that aims to evoke a sense of grandeur and ancient elegance. However, Ear Emperor argued that Ma Jiaqi's voice, which is bright and lacks depth, failed to convey the intended imagery, resulting in an unconvincing performance. Furthermore, the critic pointed out that the addition of a new explosive segment to the song felt forced and did not complement Ma Jiaqi's vocal strengths.

The controversy sparked a wide range of reactions, with some supporting Ear Emperor's views and others defending Ma Jiaqi's performance. Professional music critics noted that Ma Jiaqi's singing style, characterized by clear enunciation, can sometimes come across as old-fashioned and lacking in emotional depth, especially in ballads with dense lyrics. On the other hand, music bloggers and fans argued that Ma Jiaqi's unique voice and style are his strengths, and that Ear Emperor's criticism was too harsh.

Many audience members and industry professionals came to Ma Jiaqi's defense, pointing out his growth and improvements over the course of the competition. They highlighted his ability to connect emotionally with the audience, as seen in his performances of songs like "蜉蝣" (Mayfly) and "交换余生" (Exchange Life). Other notable figures, such as GAI and Mickey Guyton, also expressed their support for Ma Jiaqi, praising his bravery and emotional delivery.

Ma Jiaqi faced the controversy head-on, acknowledging the pressure and criticism while emphasizing his commitment to growth and improvement. In a live broadcast, he addressed the "difficult to listen to" label, stating that being young should not be an excuse for poor performance. He also shared his approach to singing, comparing it to "brushing up on his studies," and expressed his determination to make progress, even if it means taking things slowly.

The controversy surrounding Ma Jiaqi's performance has brought to light deeper contradictions within the music industry. The tension between popularity and professionalism, the clash between traditional and modern aesthetics, and the challenges faced by idols transitioning from competition shows to professional stages are all issues that the industry is grappling with. The case of Ma Jiaqi serves as a reflection of these broader dilemmas, prompting discussions about the need for a more nuanced understanding of talent, growth, and the role of criticism in the music world.

A closer examination of Ma Jiaqi's performance reveals a disconnect between his vocal abilities and the song's requirements. His rendition of "云与海" (Clouds and Sea) showcases a deliberate and thoughtful arrangement, but his vocals lack the necessary depth and power to complement the instrumentation. The song itself, while not particularly complex, demands a sense of vastness and atmospheric depth, which Ma Jiaqi's singing style struggles to convey.

In a surprising turn of events, Ear Emperor made his selection for the best performance of the evening, choosing 陈楚生 (Chen Chu Sheng) for his rendition of "未来的主人翁" (The Master of the Future). According to Ear Emperor, Chen's performance stood out for its genuine emotional power and ability to convey the song's deep cultural significance and humanitarian themes. This choice underscores the importance of song selection in showcasing an artist's capabilities and connecting with the audience on a deeper level.

By praising Chen's performance, Ear Emperor emphasizes the value of authenticity and cultural resonance in music, suggesting that these elements are essential for creating a truly standout performance. This perspective adds a layer of depth to the discussion around the singing competition, highlighting the artistic and emotional aspects of the performances beyond mere technical skill.

In the end, Ma Jiaqi was eliminated from the competition, prompting a mixed reaction from fans and fellow contestants. The Ear Emperor's comments underscore the importance of song selection, emphasizing that finding the right fit for one's style and vocal technique is crucial for success. As fans continue to discuss the elimination, it remains to be seen whether Ma Jiaqi will take the advice of 单依纯 (Shan Yipin) and participate in the upcoming "突围赛" (Breakout Tournament), a chance for eliminated contestants to reclaim their spot in the competition. The debate sparked by Ear Emperor's criticism of Ma Jiaqi's performances on "Singer 2025" goes beyond a simple disagreement over song choices, touching on fundamental questions about the music industry's values, the expectations placed on young artists, and the path to sustainable growth and success.