The one where I find something wrong

If you haven't been paying attention, I oftentimes find something wrong with various things. In the past I've found fault with Christmas, Catholicism, the weather, TV, MTV, music, kids, adults, politics, my car, drivers and the way that things go down in the business world.

You'd think that I can always come up with something topical to berate with the world being a complete trainwreck but it's not always that easy.

In fact, today I actually have something positive and constructive to say, in a roundabout way, of course.

First, a disclaimer. In my unending attempt to "stay in touch" with "whippersnappers" I've set forth a goal tonight as I write this during a commercial break. I am determined to watch the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) hosted by British actor Russell Brand (the VMA host, if you got lost in the past few words) in their entirety. It's what I assume all the young 'uns to be doing tonight and I don't want to fall out of touch.

The performances thus far (rapper Lupe Fiasco just led out to a commercial break) has been sorta meh. That is, to say, that they've fit the mold of what MTV has become. Would the awards have more relevance if they were broadcast on a cable outlet that focused on all things music? I have to think so. The VMAs seem to be in touch with only a small segment of music fans. When was the last time that MTV's VMAs (or any music awards show for that matter) had any sort of relevance or were seen as appointment viewing? Yeah, I don't remember either.

Maybe it's due to the fact that music itself has fragmented to such a multitude of sub-genres. Maybe it's the fact that at least some of what is viewed today as "mainstream" in terms of music is nothing short of dull, lifeless garbage that sells only because some desperate teenagers want to be viewed as cool and fit in among their peers.

At least VMA host Russell Brand (remember, British actor, sorta crazy hair) has chops as a comedian which is something the stale feeling 2008 MTV VMAs have been lacking (it's supposed to be fun, not stuffy like the Grammys) though this year's Hollywood set on the Paramount Studios backlot looked both small and cheap. The last high point, thus far, has been that of commercial-time performer Travis Barker. His skills behind the drum kit are unparralleled and it's niche-type performances like his with DJ AM that are needed to keep the VMAs at least somewhat fun.

One thing I think we can all agree on is that the world could do without the untalented Britney Spears winning more unjustified awards when there are a whole host of other performers who can actually sing without the use of thousands of dollars of software to make their voice less than mildly irritating. What I'm saying is that she is a performer, not an artist. She CAN'T SING.

Honestly, though, who cares about my opinion, share yours. Did you watch? Have you ever watched the VMAs? Which of the artists who were nominated or performed is your favorite?

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