IN response to Mick Peacock (HAS, Oct 7) I’d say that the recent TV drama series Cilla, based on the early singing career of Cilla Black (Priscilla White), was chiefly memorable for displaying the extraordinary talent of Sheridan Smith, especially as she actually had to replicate the defining songs that launched Cilla Black’s career.
Unfortunately, for fans of the former Liverpudlian typist, Miss Smith’s astonishing talent and versatility only served to illustrate how limited Cilla Black’s singing talents actually were.
She never really rid herself of the honking noise she was obliged to make in The Cavern in order to make herself heard.
Even her studio recordings were marked by an adenoidal whine when straining, an unfortunate trait which was exacerbated by her voice lacking essential timbre.
As far as I’m concerned Cilla’s success as a singer will always remain a profound mystery. She simply cannot hold a candle to UK female artists such as Dusty Springfield and Elkie Brooks.
Indeed, comparisons are embarrassing and partly explain Cilla Black’s lack of success in the US where female singing talent is well appreciated.
VJ Connor, Bishop Auckland
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