Paloma’s rugby song mauled by critics
MUSIC critics politely described Paloma Faith’s rendition of the World Cup theme music as ‘vocally acrobatic’. Rugby fans, however, have been more brutal. They have accused Miss Faith, 34, of ‘murdering’ the World In Union song, which is recorded by a different singer for every tournament.
Fans have sent a petition to ITV calling on the broadcaster to remove the song from its coverage, which is played during the opening credits for each game and briefly during ad breaks.
A letter that accompanies the petition says: ‘We, the undersigned, request that you, ITV, remove Paloma Faith from the Rugby World Cup in order to make it a more enjoyable experience for all spectators.’
Critics include Maureen Crothers from Lisburn, who wrote: ‘Paloma Faith has butchered World in Union. Having to listen to this dirge every time a match comes on is ruining my experience of the Rugby World Cup.
‘Please, please stop using her version of this classic rugby anthem as it is like having your ears grated with a cheese grater.’
Jessica Catchpole from Kent added: ‘It sounds less like a professional singer and more like someone paid a bribe to let their tone deaf child be on the telly.’ John Boaden from Portsmouth said Miss Faith’s voice ‘makes my ears bleed’.
Even people who normally like the singer say they are driven to distraction by her version of the song. Gail Kane from Scarcroft, near Leeds, said: ‘Although I think she’s great, she is actually murdering that song.’
Brit Award winner Miss Faith shrugged off the criticism, saying: ‘Some people are slating it – I feel like they don’t like change, but I don’t mind. I’m quite pleased with it, so that’s all that matters really. I think they don’t like it because it’s being played too much.’