The makeover is a musician's “now 33 per cent new and improved” sticker. And like any product that's gone through extensive brand testing, results are expected. But, as with all so-called improvements, results may vary.
For every Ziggy Stardust-esque success, there’s a John Mayer-turned-Johnny Depp mistake. It's been a while since Mayer put out some new music. His name has remained in the headlines more because of gossip than songs. A Mayer makeover coincided with his new album and, even though the album has been doing well on the Billboard charts, he’s had to share the spotlight with his new hat. At this point, the hat has at least one Twitter account – which isn't verified.
You can't really blame Mayer for trying the makeover route; it does have a fine tradition in the world of pop music. Here are some of the most memorable makeovers in recent pop music history.
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Madonna
The pop diva has had too many makeovers to keep track. I enjoyed the fit and together look of Ray of Light and the Western look for Music. But I'm also pretty partial to 'Express Yourself' Madonna. The pin-striped suit always rocks.
Christina Aguilera
She started out as a sweet teen idol from those Mouseketeer days, and then Stripped happened and that “Dirrty” video. She was a trailblazer for black streaks in long blonde hair. Not sure that’s something to be proud of. But Christina cleans up mighty well, as she did for her '40s homage video for Candyman.
Kanye West
To be fair, this hip-hop artist does love “the fashion.” He’s even become a designer. So new looks are really de rigueur. He can do preppy, fur and high tops. For me, the highlight was two years ago, that red ensemble and the big Egyptian gold jewelry for My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. Who else can pull this off?
Chris Martin of Coldplay
Like the Beatles before them, Martin's English quartet likes to create a new image for each release. Sure, in most ways they just look like cleaned-up man/boys, but for Viva La Vida they looked like background players in Les Miserables. Tragic and handsome.
Blake Shelton
I'll admit to not knowing much about this country singer before this season's The Voice, but it was hard not to find a soft spot for this white shirt, vest and jeans look. And it was all the more amazing since I found a picture of the artist in his mullet, cowboy hat days. Sure, he might look a bit like your dad dressed up to see U2, but ultimately he learned that the hat had to go – hint, hint, John Mayer.
What memorable musical makeovers did I miss? Let me know in the comments.
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