Backing Track - Issues

Issues

The use of backing tracks has drawn some criticism from the world of music. Many fans dislike the use of tracks live, feeling that it detracts from the integrity of a performance; however, the amount of criticism tends to vary with the amount of tracks used. Simple playback of additional audio such as complex synthesizer parts tends to draw the least criticism; the heaviest is usually reserved for more complex performances. Some musicians have also spoken out against the use of backing tracks; notably, Elton John made the news when he lambasted the issue in 2004, saying that "Anyone who lip-syncs in public onstage when you pay 75 pounds to see them should be shot." (Specifically, he levied this criticism at Madonna, who does use backing tracks on tour, although accusations of lip synching were immediately denied by her management which is not the same as miming. John later rescinded his claims of lip synching, although he continued to criticize her use of backing tracks.)

However, some musicians continue to defend the use of tracks. For instance, Pet Shop Boys state that "There's no sneaky secrecy about it" and that their electronically based music would sound "sloppy" if played live, a view that has been echoed by other electronic groups. More seriously, Roger Waters has admitted to using a pre-recorded vocal track to augment his live vocals on certain songs; his bandmember Norbert Stachel has agreed that it would be better for Waters to use the track than to lose his voice.