It's obvious that the lead singer ALWAYS get more attention than the other bandmembers. We've seen it before, Linkin Park, All-American Rejects, Bon Jovi, basically whichever band you choose - the leadsinger always gets the more attention, because they're heard more. It comes naturally, it's logical and it makes perfect sense, however - it's not really fair.
What you need to remember is that Amy and Ben wrote the songs TOGETHER. It was a colaboration, they were a team. Ben's songs aren't nominated for six grammys, THEIR songs are nominated. There is a huge difference.
I think that Ben wanted more attention than he got, and therefore got pissed because he wasn't in the center - he wasn't the star - like Amy is. My own mom has said that "SHE is Evanescence", and she always will be to some people. Ben dropping off is both stupid and immature, if he had such problems with being in the background he should have done something about it. However, I thought the main reason for starting Evanescence was for him to live out his dream, not get pissed over the fact that Amy gets seen more than he does.
As for Amy's relationship with Morgan, I will leave whether or not Ben's still inlove with Amy unsaid. However, if he did leave because of Morgan, I think he's yet again making a fool of himself. Jealousy doesn't look good on anyone. He's turning 23 years old, he should be more mature than that, and not let a little thing like that get in the way of their friendship and teamwork.
To Roger, that whole technical device on shows is a cock of bull. I saw them in Copenhagen oct. 20th '03, and it was live all the way. I know a whole lot about music, I can tell when someone sings live or doesn't. As for her voice on the record, yes, her voice HAS been tampered with - but every voice does. Comparing Amy Lee to Britney Spears is ignorant and I will leave that further unsaid.
Now, you both seem to think that it's unfair that Amy is being looked upon as the only member of Evanescence, yet you both bash her down, saying "she'll be a has been" and that Ben is Evanescence. They BOTH are Evanescence, no one of them is the band on their own. Then they would be a soloartist, not a band. Amy has written all the songs with Ben, so saying that she "wouldn't survive without the songwriter" is just bullshit and ridicilous. She is the songwriter too.
I'm not going to discuss who is the band and who's not, because it's obvious no one of them is the band, they BOTH are. However.. The fact that Ben wouldn't last a day without Amy and wouldn't come NEAR the greatness he had with her, when Amy is doing just fine on her own, speaks for itself..
If anyone wants to comment on anything I have to say, please e-mail me.
27 -
Ash
Jan 18, 2004 at 7:26 pm
I cant believe all of this. I dont think anyone will ever really know WHY ben left the band, but for whatever reason, it was pretty stupid. He got more attention than those two extra guys that play bass and drums or whatever combined! So if it was for attention, no way. I mean, if you ask someone if they know evanescence and who the members are, yes they will say Amy Lee, but most others will say Ben Moody. If he left for jealously, that is just stupid too. Im sure Amy loves him with all her heart, just as a friend though. The band would be nowhere without either of them, they did the songs TOGETHER. They are both amazing song writers. What pisses me off is Ben Moody is now writing songs with/for AVRIL LAVIGNE, who im not even going to get into. Im just going to say that now a lot of people are probably going to think Avril a great songwriter when really Ben did most of the work when avril probably only wrote a line or two, just like on her first cd. Then there is the whole 'amys voice is fake' situation. Who ever said that, it is bull. Everyones voices get messed around with on a cd, whethere a teeny bit, or a lot. Someone like Britney has no singing voice at all, but it gets tampered with and made better. Amy really does, but they probably have to make it a bit better or whatever for reasons on the album. I watched MTV Diary and evanescence was on there for the VMAS, and she was practicing singing, and they couldnt have tampered with it, it was just her sitting on the couch singing and it was amazing. So once agian, whoever said Amys voice sucks or whatever, you are VERY VERY wrong.
As for Amy and the guy from Seether. Best of luck to them.
And as the for the grammatical errors.. whatever. Who cares?!
And i know i am repeating what others said.. but oh well.
28 -
-J
Jan 29, 2004 at 10:20 am
First of all, stop being a narcissist. Ben Moody never blamed you for anything. You are not the reason he left, get over yourself. Secondly, do you have nothing better to do than write crap about people on the internet to make yourself feel superior and knowledgable? like I said before....narcissist. The truth is, you don't know the reason he left so A.) you make yourself look ignorant. B.) Consider the fact that he is a better guitar player than you, seeing how I haven't heard any of your music being nominated for any major awards. C.) You grow the fuck up and stop with your rediculous, remedial-educated comments.
Oh, Boarders has dictionaries on sale, and while your at it, pick up a Thesaurus to help out next time you try to use big words you don't understand.
Hi Staarr. Don’t be so quick to judge others, my friend, for you are the one who is ignorant. Upon reading your unnecessarily verbose response (more than likely created with a thesaurus on hand) I e-mailed Shaun’s quote to a friend who happens to be a Professor of Intercultural Communications at the local community college. Sorry, Staar. Shaun is a fucking moron…in any country. On another note, the guy from Cold is here to stay. However, I do not remember his name.
30 -
Dwaine AKA Scooter AKA D.J.
Jan 30, 2004 at 8:53 pm
HA. Like I really care about what you insignificant humans say about some band that will cease to exist. Answer me this question: What is the meaning of life?
31 -
Sarah
Feb 07, 2004 at 8:00 pm
my god..all but 2 of you are complete fucking morons..i mean come on...first of all to those who said fallen was their first cd..get a fucking clue..it was Origin..i dont know why ben quit i think its one of the saddest things..i didnt only think of her as evanescence..i knew him and amy were evanescence..only origal members..and omg for that moron to compare amy to britney..someone should slap you and id like it to be me...dont you ever dare say that again..amy was the freaking CAPTAIN of her choir..so gee i dont think you can be the captain if you dont have a good voice..and yes please listen to forgive me and ocotober which are not on fallen which were put out WAY before fallen..and are pretty much independently made and then tell me that amy doesnt have a good voice..you fucking idiot...god...and as for ben joining Advils writing team..please ben i love you but get some sense...and yes i said advil not avril because i need advil before listening to avril thank you and good bye..we miss you ben..
32 -
Metal rckr
Feb 08, 2004 at 10:42 pm
Did yall se Ben at the grammy backing Amy Up? What the hell?
33 -
metal rckr (seftyheavymetalrckr@yahoo.com)
Feb 08, 2004 at 10:45 pm
Hey yall e-mail me if you have any info on the Ben incident(spell?)
And the dudes w/ the grammar issues chill!
34 -
metal rckr
Feb 08, 2004 at 10:48 pm
sorry sarah but heir first cd was The Sound Asleep EP thank you. Origin was their 4th cd! their 2nd released record.
35 -
Metla rkcr
Feb 08, 2004 at 10:57 pm
BOB #16 um ben writs the slow pretty songs dugh My immortal, Hello. Hello! no pun intended.he wrote both of those including Forever gone, forever you, not so slow one of my favorites.But get you facts straight b4 you post stuff.K?
P.S. i agree w/ you that they woun't be the same w/ out him. but i have FAITH in amy!
36 -
Grammy
Feb 09, 2004 at 6:13 am
Grammys
The two had a cold reunion onstage, then told reporters in separate sessions how glad they are to be free of each other.
37 -
Trigga
Feb 09, 2004 at 6:42 am
I for one have just begun to hear about this band "Evenescence". I absolutly love their music, and it doesnt really matter to me who plays the instuments, as long as they love what they are playing. In the case of Amy, she has the beauty and talent to succeed in any path she chooses. I hope to hear more from this band in the future. Keep up the hard work and dont let anybody get you down Amy!
38 -
Sara G
Feb 09, 2004 at 12:22 pm
I hate Shaun Morgan, Amy should really break up with him. But I don't think he has the right to say anything about ben Moody for all we know it could really be shaun's fault, thats why he is reacting the way that he is.Because if he had nothing to do with ben leaving why does he even care.
39 -
Gigglingmonk
Feb 09, 2004 at 7:29 pm
ok....i know this might be a stupid question, but what were you guys talking about when you said that thing about ben still "loving" amy? as far as i know they were never a couple, but im probably wrong.
40 -
duane
Feb 09, 2004 at 7:43 pm
Hey, what happened to this post? I thought it was supposed to be about grammar, but everyone keeps talking about some rock band -- Effervescence? What gives?
41 -
Treacy
Feb 09, 2004 at 7:59 pm
Evanescance is a band that provides music for Human Beings entertainment. As far as most people are concerned, a band comes a band goes and another will take its place. Then before you know it its 2020 and we are all labeled with numbers and don't have to remember anyones name, so therefore we don't need to worry about who is with who and who has left.
As for the petty bitching from Shaun, anyone in his position would have said and felt exactly the same. Don't be so two faced!! It's just another male bitching about another male. We all do it. They're just as bad as females!!!!
42 -
pete
Feb 10, 2004 at 3:41 am
DID ANYONE NOTICE WHO BEN WAS DRESSED LIKE AT THE GRAMMYS???? SERIOUSLY, THATS NOT WHAT HE NORMALLY LOOKS LIKE-HE DOESNT HAVE LONG HAIR IT WAS A WIG. HE WAS DRESSED LIKE THE LEAD SINGER OF Seether. IT WAS A PERSONAL FUCK YOU TO AMY....
All I want to add is that Amy has extremely bad taste in men. Shawn is one UGLY MUTHERF***ER.
44 -
ClubhouseCancer
Feb 10, 2004 at 12:18 pm
Warning: Grammar only. Don't care about these bands.
Bob, you have the grammar only a little mixed up. "Leaving" in this case is what's called a gerund, or a noun that is made from a verb form. So modifying it with an adjective is perfectly OK.
However, "subsequent" implies that the previous action (Moody's having a bad attitude) is over, and that the new action (leaving the band) then started, which isn't really what's intended.
So, to me, no on "subsequent leaving," but it's more a diction issue than a grammatical one.
How about "eventual exit"?
As to the commas, no comma after "dictionary" â€" in general, you need a comma separating clauses only when the subject changes or is restated, and the subject here (implied second person) is the same and omitted.
I agree about the comma after "word" for the same reason: subject change.
No comma after "cookies." This is the infamous serial comma, the comma before the "and" in a series. Usually, it's left out.
You're correct that you need a comma after "website."
The commas around "somewhat vitriolicly" are nonstandard, but kind of "writer's choice." I'd take them out (and rewrite it "with significant vitriol" as "vitriolicly" is nonstandard, of course), but I get it that emphasis is intended. Maybe dashes.
Keep in mind that the intro was ostensibly written and edited by professionals, and should be judged by higher standards than the scribblings of an egoist guitar player.
45 -
duane
Feb 10, 2004 at 1:19 pm
That's the spirit, Cancer. You were referring to my post (#5) above, right? I still prefer a comma after "cookies." If he had said, "Now have your cookies and milk, and go to bed...", no comma, because then milk is something the writer is suggesting "having" with cookies. To say "...have your cookies and..." suggests that what follows the "and" is also something to be "having," which isn't the case, so a comma seems appropriate.
Beyond that, a nice bowl of ice cream works wonders in these situations.
46 -
ClubhouseCancer
Feb 10, 2004 at 1:42 pm
Well, it doesn't matter what you prefer, the fact is, most everyone eschews the serial comma, which is the grammar rule here. It's not discretionary.
In your alternate example, you're right, you don't need a comma either. But it's not because of your explanation of the sentence's meaning, it's because the sentence you provided has two verbs, but the same, non-repeated subject, so no comma needed.
Fact is, "discretionary commas" are almost never discretionary. There is always a rule to follow.
47 -
duane
Feb 10, 2004 at 1:53 pm
Thank you, CC. I stand --- er --- sit, sedentarily, corrected, or, perhaps, I sit sedentarily corrected.
48 -
ClubhouseCancer
Feb 10, 2004 at 2:05 pm
I'm just amazed anyone found something to discuss about this pissy feud among wimpy rockers and their wispy-singing girlfriends.
Even if it's just grammar. Nice bloggin' at ya.
49 -
Eric Olsen
Feb 10, 2004 at 2:13 pm
CC, I am a firm supporter of the rules and wish everyone knew them, but there is also a fair amount of wiggle room in punctuation, as long as the writer follows THE cardinal rule of punctuating for clarity. There are times I want the reader to stop, and pause, before moving on, and the only way to achieve that is through punctuation even if the rule says it is more proper to not punctuate at that juncture.
50 -
ClubhouseCancer
Feb 10, 2004 at 2:21 pm
Eric:
Then I'm glad you don't work for me.
51 -
Eric Olsen
Feb 10, 2004 at 2:40 pm
Alrighty then, thanks.
52 -
ClubhouseCancer
Feb 10, 2004 at 3:03 pm
Eric:
I meant no offense, but everyone thinks they can punctuate the way you describe. Your readers would much rather you follow the rules, believe me. And the rules cover everything.
53 -
Eric Olsen
Feb 10, 2004 at 3:36 pm
I will stick with my statement that clarity, meaning and style are more important than rules if and when they conflict, which shouldn't be all that often.
Hi
I'm really sad about the departure of ben moody, but I'm sure that Evanescence is going to grow as a band. Anyway, I hope too that ben moody will come back after a few years with amy lee in order to write songs. (I wish that he works with somebody else than Avril Lavigne...becaue when he says in an interview on radio that he left 'cause he was disgusted of the industry and there was no friendship and artist connection since a long time with Amy, you don't go work with a girl like avril who just a produce like britney spears.And next you don't say harsh comment on your old friends that he was loving carrying there was 2 month.)
Anyway, I think that they're both down earth and nice people but I don't like the way he explains he's departure. It suggest that it was between him or her to leave of the band. he says that he was a good guy, not a poor rich girl and that he doesn't need a succeful band to define who he was.
I think that those words show his anger. Something happened...none of our business.But I love too much Evanescence so I'm a little curious.
(the love affair seems true : look at the face of moody at the grammys when Amy thanks her boyfriend shawn Morgan, the motley crew side of Ben could be true too, the fact that he doesn't wanted to let the musicians compose new songs and the dictator thing about music seems right but I don't want to dish on him and first I don't no him and he seems to be a good guy. And you know what everybody makes mistakes !!! It's human to not be perfect.
But the grammys were very strange and unhealthy with him and david hodge on the stage. The mood was really creepy.Ben was disgiused like a pimp. Amy was feeling bad.I think he should not come. He's the one who walked away during tour and when you leave a band like this I think that's a shame; and you have no respect to come to a show to get an award. That's no respect for Amy.
I love both of them and the band but Ben should apologizes or do something...and work with true artist and not act like a pimp and earn money on a kid idol as Avril. I hope that it's not going crazy and that he's going to do a good record by himself to show his skills and I wish a long life to EVANESCENCE. BEST BAND EVER.
PS :
I wait the next album of Evanescence. The guitarist of limpbizkit is going to work with Amy and her bandmates.
and look at Resident evil 2 (ben is doing a cameo) and I think that he works on the soundtrack of a Mel Gibson's movie (hope that's not too Christian).
on the jacket of the record we can read from Amy thanks at the end :" And ben, my best friend - for seeing me across a crowded room."
from Ben thanks at the end : "And finally...Amy, my best friend. You will always have "all of me"."
56 -
Sarah
Feb 11, 2004 at 10:16 pm
ben did not write Hello...go to their website and it tells you...it has Amys hand written lyrics..and SHE wrote hello...get it straight..and i dont care if origin was their first cd or not..i was just saying FALLEN WASNT thank you..am i right about that? uhm yes..and theo..the band did not split where did you get that info..i dunno what happened between amy and ben but i dont like it one bit..its shitty..theyve been friends since they were 12 and 13 and they are gonna let some petty shit get in the way..thats ridiculous..but yes amy should leave shaun hes ugly..and stupid..either way i still love evanescence with or without ben..though it is different..but whatever keep em coming evanescence..i still love ya.oh and P.S. if you dont believe me that she wrote hello just look it up..she wrote all of these going under,bring me to life,haunted,taking over me,hello and my last breath.and as you said metal..get your facts straight before you post something...
57 -
anonymous
Feb 15, 2004 at 11:57 pm
it doesnt matter, in the end it will always be ok, ben gets his solo stuff going, i'll buy that cd, Evanescence does another album, i'll buy that too, if they are happy whats the fuss about? and shaun? we dont know him, so how can their be any jugdements made on him, just let these folks live their lives, they're personal lives are none of our business, and if i was grammatically incorrect anywhere here, my apologies, i dont even know why i posted this stuff, its not like me.
58 -
Bobsyouruncle
Feb 16, 2004 at 1:39 am
I'm going to ignore the childish attacks that are coming out of the comment section and instead focus on Mr. Morgan's comments. I must say, I have seen a lot of tactless and classless assholes online, but this fellow really takes the cake. Any respect I may have had for him is gone now.
Ben was right in keeping his mouth shut about the incident. Quite frankly, it is no ones business but his own.
As for Mr. Morgan's band, he should keep his mouth shut before making comments about other people's music. I listened to some of his tracks and they're really nothing to brag about. Quite mundane, actually.
59 -
Metal Republican
Feb 16, 2004 at 2:09 pm
From Arkansas: Here is the truth behind the Evanescence / Amy and Ben saga. The truth is that no one knows the truth except for two people and God. I have known Amy since she was 16. Her father and I are friends and she gave me a copy of Origin one day while her and her parents were visiting during the summer. The angelic, shy, creative teenager that gave me that CD is the same young woman of today. Just richer. If I were to bet on the reasons why Amy and Ben have failed to maintain a friendship, I would say that (someone) has put pressure on her in ways in which they may not know. (And I don't mean someone from her family.) Amy can handle the price of fame but can others understand how she chooses to deal with it. We all loved Amy before the success and we all believe that she will make the right decisions for 'Amy.' Amy is a talented woman who can inspire the masses. We just need to let her do so and not judge or critize her actions. She knows what is best for her and for Evanescence.
As far as Ben, let's look at it this way. Amy and Ben formed a friendship and look what became of it. A powerful band that has the potential to have global acceptance for many decades. They hit a cord (no pun intended) with millions of people. They are both indepedant, creative, talented people and they don't need outsiders telling them how they should react to suitations in thier lifes. If they choose not to speak then so be it. Leave them alone and let them settle their differences. I don't think what happened was bad enough to create hate between them forever. Sure, Ben walked off on a European tour. Why? Here is the answer. He dealt with a situation the best way he knew how. Don't fault him for doing so. Amy was right in saying what she said and showing her anger. But don't read so much into the politics of the band. Things happen. It all boils down to the spark that ignited the fireball. It was just a spark. The fireball can be contained when and if Amy and Ben choose to do so. It isn't the end of either of thier careers. I can assure you that it has only made them stronger.
To Amy and Ben. Remember that your first reactions to eachothers talents were right. People grow and apart but they should never grow distant.
Mark
Heber Springs, Arkansas
60 -
anonymous
Feb 16, 2004 at 4:28 pm
word.
61 -
Niolos
Feb 16, 2004 at 4:34 pm
Maybe I'm wrong here but I do remember reading somewhere that they both wrote songs for some part at least about each other. So just because on the official website you find her lyric journal with a majority (not all) of the lyrics in it, doesn't necessarily mean that he didn't have a part writing them. It's a trivial issue anyway. Also in one interview with Amy I was having trouble discerning whether or not the band was happy about Ben's decision to leave for the sake of him being gone (which seems most unlikely) or just supporting his decision. Maybe Ben isn't the only one to blame. (not to blame Amy) Regardless it doesn't matter, he wanted to leave, he left, the band goes on at least for a while. But it sure must have been a pretty big thing that caused him to leave since Ben and Amy ARE ("were" anymore) Evanescence. That just makes me think he really did have some thing for her. Not like that's scandalous or shocking. BTW, last time I checked, Britney Spears has a natural singing voice. You don't get auditions (especially when your crazy young) w/o packing something. I don't like what she's packing but whatever.
62 -
HW Saxton Jr
Feb 16, 2004 at 4:57 pm
But what about James Moody?
63 -
Eric Olsen
Feb 16, 2004 at 5:02 pm
and what of Manny the Moody Mammoth?
64 -
Pete
Feb 17, 2004 at 1:02 pm
I think Amy's only 20 isn't she? She's burning brightly and I hope she always will - definite talent. The main thing is she and the band have created some wonderful music which I for one listen to all the time; since discovering that the only way to get Origin was to chance one on eBay for $200, which I can't afford anyway, I've been scouring Kazaa for downloads and now have a fairly complete set of material - only Missing is missing! I love it - even the pre-Origin versions which probably the band cringe at artistically, I love'em. (Out of interest - mine anyway! - I came across another band in this process - Within Temptation - and some of its OK but there's a track called Restless that I really wish Amy had done first - its evanescent!).
Finally, I hope new Evanescence will still power along and ballad beautifully and keep me company on the road, at the desk and in my head for many albums to come!
65 -
Niolos
Feb 17, 2004 at 1:25 pm
Now that I think of it regarding the idea of singers having "pitch fixers" during live performances...That seems like the most stupid idea ever. People that can't sing don't go on tour. Now if you were thinking (whoever brought it up) that the in-ear monitors were pitch fixers thats incorrect. Hopefully you knew that. Would certainly hate to be a singer w/o being able to hear the band.
66 -
Kendra
Feb 17, 2004 at 5:43 pm
Ben should kick shaun's ASS...And Ben is hotttttttttttt!!!!!!!!!
67 -
Sarah
Feb 17, 2004 at 10:03 pm
i agree with most of these comments except i would just like to say..amy is not 20 she is 22..her birthday is December 13th 1981..that would make her 22..seeing as i was born only 11 days before that and am 22..i would know..anyways..whatever happened happened and it cant be taken back..well it could if they made up..which i hope they do..he doesnt have to rejoin..but theyshould at least talk to each other again..anyways..evanescence is great..i love all their music..Anywhere is really moving to me..but is that David Hodges singing with her? i have no clue but i would like to know..anyone who has that info..that would be great..ppl should really start learning how to get along on this place..i mean really starting shit over grammar..thats pathetic..but whatever..evanescence rox and always will.
68 -
heather
Feb 17, 2004 at 11:39 pm
u guys should go to exodusevanescence.com if u haven't already, they have the history of evanescence, althought right now they are remaking the site because of the stuff thats happened, anyway, click on the history section or whatever its called not the site history the other one, i cant remember what its called ANYWAY u guys should go there.EXODUSEVANESCENCE.COM
69 -
Red
Feb 17, 2004 at 11:40 pm
I'd have to say that Evanescence is nothing new, Amy Lee is another crap girl singer, and Ben Moody can't play the guitar.
Of course, this is coming from a someone who thinks Billy Joel is the greatest singer ever and Edward Van Halen is the greatest guitarist. Eddie wrote a song in the 70's, way before Evanescence, called "Runnin' With The Devil." Not only is this song better than any Evanescence, it's frikkin' Van frikkin' Halen.
Face it - they're nothing more than some people a recording industry decided to give a contract to because they were marketable. The music industry doesn't care about anything except making money anymore. If the whole Ben Moody breakup was staged to draw attention to the band I would NOT be surprised.
Remember this is just my opinion. And I don't like girl singers.
70 -
Pete
Feb 18, 2004 at 12:30 pm
And why are they marketable? Because people like listening to their music and are willing to buy it! And the concerts, and the t-shirts. Remember there was a huge amount of good stuff before Fallen - an album's worth with Origin plus the EPs and self-cut CDRs - they were talented before the record company came along. The music industry makes money, sure, but it also means a lot more people get to find music they like.
Yes, its a personal thing, but that's half the fun - that's why we can read in amazement that you like Billy Joel! (I knew there was someone...)
71 -
Red
Feb 18, 2004 at 7:00 pm
Kind of what I meant was, there might have been a band out there like Evanescence, but better, but they took Evanescence because the band members were more physically attractive...that's just one example of what I mean by "marketable." The music industry knows it's selling more than just music.
Yes, I do like Billy Joel, thank you very much. I don't get why he's kind of a joke.
72 -
Metal
Feb 18, 2004 at 8:58 pm
Sarah... Chill please! all i want to say is that they (Amy and Ben) wrote that song together.It was on an interview when David was still part of the band and John(LeCompt) wasn't. And yes I have seen the hand written lyrics on their web site. I visit it almost everyday (my home page).
Sorry for the conferentation.
73 -
Metal
Feb 18, 2004 at 8:59 pm
Sarah... Chill please! all i want to say is that they (Amy and Ben) wrote that song together.It was on an interview when David was still part of the band and John(LeCompt) wasn't. And yes I have seen the hand written lyrics on their web site. I visit it almost everyday (my home page).
Sorry for the conferentation.
74 -
Red
Feb 19, 2004 at 2:04 am
Hey, what do you guys think of this one: "conferentation."
75 -
Pete
Feb 19, 2004 at 4:27 am
Oh no don't start up the grammarians again!
I think a conferentation is an intention to repost a duplicate item. Unfortunately it needs a deconferentation to stop an otherwise endless looping.
Sorry about the Billy Joel thing, he's OK. If we're coming out of the closet here then I'm an Avril fan! (No kidding). I heard her way before Let Go and thought she'd do well. Her success is therefore kind of neat for me. If there are any Forgive Me fans out there - imagine it was an Avril song, not too far removed from possibility huh? (Listen to Tomorrow or Why). I can fully see why Ben has connected with the Avril camp.
Article comments
— go to most recent comments26 - . Fallen .
Wow..
This was .. interesting to read.
This message is directed to ROGER and GARY MILLS:
It's obvious that the lead singer ALWAYS get more attention than the other bandmembers. We've seen it before, Linkin Park, All-American Rejects, Bon Jovi, basically whichever band you choose - the leadsinger always gets the more attention, because they're heard more. It comes naturally, it's logical and it makes perfect sense, however - it's not really fair.
What you need to remember is that Amy and Ben wrote the songs TOGETHER. It was a colaboration, they were a team. Ben's songs aren't nominated for six grammys, THEIR songs are nominated. There is a huge difference.
I think that Ben wanted more attention than he got, and therefore got pissed because he wasn't in the center - he wasn't the star - like Amy is. My own mom has said that "SHE is Evanescence", and she always will be to some people. Ben dropping off is both stupid and immature, if he had such problems with being in the background he should have done something about it. However, I thought the main reason for starting Evanescence was for him to live out his dream, not get pissed over the fact that Amy gets seen more than he does.
As for Amy's relationship with Morgan, I will leave whether or not Ben's still inlove with Amy unsaid. However, if he did leave because of Morgan, I think he's yet again making a fool of himself. Jealousy doesn't look good on anyone. He's turning 23 years old, he should be more mature than that, and not let a little thing like that get in the way of their friendship and teamwork.
To Roger, that whole technical device on shows is a cock of bull. I saw them in Copenhagen oct. 20th '03, and it was live all the way. I know a whole lot about music, I can tell when someone sings live or doesn't. As for her voice on the record, yes, her voice HAS been tampered with - but every voice does. Comparing Amy Lee to Britney Spears is ignorant and I will leave that further unsaid.
Now, you both seem to think that it's unfair that Amy is being looked upon as the only member of Evanescence, yet you both bash her down, saying "she'll be a has been" and that Ben is Evanescence. They BOTH are Evanescence, no one of them is the band on their own. Then they would be a soloartist, not a band. Amy has written all the songs with Ben, so saying that she "wouldn't survive without the songwriter" is just bullshit and ridicilous. She is the songwriter too.
I'm not going to discuss who is the band and who's not, because it's obvious no one of them is the band, they BOTH are. However.. The fact that Ben wouldn't last a day without Amy and wouldn't come NEAR the greatness he had with her, when Amy is doing just fine on her own, speaks for itself..
If anyone wants to comment on anything I have to say, please e-mail me.
27 - Ash
I cant believe all of this. I dont think anyone will ever really know WHY ben left the band, but for whatever reason, it was pretty stupid. He got more attention than those two extra guys that play bass and drums or whatever combined! So if it was for attention, no way. I mean, if you ask someone if they know evanescence and who the members are, yes they will say Amy Lee, but most others will say Ben Moody. If he left for jealously, that is just stupid too. Im sure Amy loves him with all her heart, just as a friend though. The band would be nowhere without either of them, they did the songs TOGETHER. They are both amazing song writers. What pisses me off is Ben Moody is now writing songs with/for AVRIL LAVIGNE, who im not even going to get into. Im just going to say that now a lot of people are probably going to think Avril a great songwriter when really Ben did most of the work when avril probably only wrote a line or two, just like on her first cd. Then there is the whole 'amys voice is fake' situation. Who ever said that, it is bull. Everyones voices get messed around with on a cd, whethere a teeny bit, or a lot. Someone like Britney has no singing voice at all, but it gets tampered with and made better. Amy really does, but they probably have to make it a bit better or whatever for reasons on the album. I watched MTV Diary and evanescence was on there for the VMAS, and she was practicing singing, and they couldnt have tampered with it, it was just her sitting on the couch singing and it was amazing. So once agian, whoever said Amys voice sucks or whatever, you are VERY VERY wrong.
As for Amy and the guy from Seether. Best of luck to them.
And as the for the grammatical errors.. whatever. Who cares?!
And i know i am repeating what others said.. but oh well.
28 - -J
First of all, stop being a narcissist. Ben Moody never blamed you for anything. You are not the reason he left, get over yourself. Secondly, do you have nothing better to do than write crap about people on the internet to make yourself feel superior and knowledgable? like I said before....narcissist. The truth is, you don't know the reason he left so A.) you make yourself look ignorant. B.) Consider the fact that he is a better guitar player than you, seeing how I haven't heard any of your music being nominated for any major awards. C.) You grow the fuck up and stop with your rediculous, remedial-educated comments.
Oh, Boarders has dictionaries on sale, and while your at it, pick up a Thesaurus to help out next time you try to use big words you don't understand.
29 - bob
Hi Staarr. Don’t be so quick to judge others, my friend, for you are the one who is ignorant. Upon reading your unnecessarily verbose response (more than likely created with a thesaurus on hand) I e-mailed Shaun’s quote to a friend who happens to be a Professor of Intercultural Communications at the local community college. Sorry, Staar. Shaun is a fucking moron…in any country. On another note, the guy from Cold is here to stay. However, I do not remember his name.
30 - Dwaine AKA Scooter AKA D.J.
HA. Like I really care about what you insignificant humans say about some band that will cease to exist. Answer me this question: What is the meaning of life?
31 - Sarah
my god..all but 2 of you are complete fucking morons..i mean come on...first of all to those who said fallen was their first cd..get a fucking clue..it was Origin..i dont know why ben quit i think its one of the saddest things..i didnt only think of her as evanescence..i knew him and amy were evanescence..only origal members..and omg for that moron to compare amy to britney..someone should slap you and id like it to be me...dont you ever dare say that again..amy was the freaking CAPTAIN of her choir..so gee i dont think you can be the captain if you dont have a good voice..and yes please listen to forgive me and ocotober which are not on fallen which were put out WAY before fallen..and are pretty much independently made and then tell me that amy doesnt have a good voice..you fucking idiot...god...and as for ben joining Advils writing team..please ben i love you but get some sense...and yes i said advil not avril because i need advil before listening to avril thank you and good bye..we miss you ben..
32 - Metal rckr
Did yall se Ben at the grammy backing Amy Up? What the hell?
33 - metal rckr (seftyheavymetalrckr@yahoo.com)
Hey yall e-mail me if you have any info on the Ben incident(spell?)
And the dudes w/ the grammar issues chill!
34 - metal rckr
sorry sarah but heir first cd was The Sound Asleep EP thank you. Origin was their 4th cd! their 2nd released record.
35 - Metla rkcr
BOB #16 um ben writs the slow pretty songs dugh My immortal, Hello. Hello! no pun intended.he wrote both of those including Forever gone, forever you, not so slow one of my favorites.But get you facts straight b4 you post stuff.K?
P.S. i agree w/ you that they woun't be the same w/ out him. but i have FAITH in amy!
36 - Grammy
Grammys
The two had a cold reunion onstage, then told reporters in separate sessions how glad they are to be free of each other.
37 - Trigga
I for one have just begun to hear about this band "Evenescence". I absolutly love their music, and it doesnt really matter to me who plays the instuments, as long as they love what they are playing. In the case of Amy, she has the beauty and talent to succeed in any path she chooses. I hope to hear more from this band in the future. Keep up the hard work and dont let anybody get you down Amy!
38 - Sara G
I hate Shaun Morgan, Amy should really break up with him. But I don't think he has the right to say anything about ben Moody for all we know it could really be shaun's fault, thats why he is reacting the way that he is.Because if he had nothing to do with ben leaving why does he even care.
39 - Gigglingmonk
ok....i know this might be a stupid question, but what were you guys talking about when you said that thing about ben still "loving" amy? as far as i know they were never a couple, but im probably wrong.
40 - duane
Hey, what happened to this post? I thought it was supposed to be about grammar, but everyone keeps talking about some rock band -- Effervescence? What gives?
41 - Treacy
Evanescance is a band that provides music for Human Beings entertainment. As far as most people are concerned, a band comes a band goes and another will take its place. Then before you know it its 2020 and we are all labeled with numbers and don't have to remember anyones name, so therefore we don't need to worry about who is with who and who has left.
As for the petty bitching from Shaun, anyone in his position would have said and felt exactly the same. Don't be so two faced!! It's just another male bitching about another male. We all do it. They're just as bad as females!!!!
42 - pete
DID ANYONE NOTICE WHO BEN WAS DRESSED LIKE AT THE GRAMMYS???? SERIOUSLY, THATS NOT WHAT HE NORMALLY LOOKS LIKE-HE DOESNT HAVE LONG HAIR IT WAS A WIG. HE WAS DRESSED LIKE THE LEAD SINGER OF Seether. IT WAS A PERSONAL FUCK YOU TO AMY....
43 - Imran
All I want to add is that Amy has extremely bad taste in men. Shawn is one UGLY MUTHERF***ER.
44 - ClubhouseCancer
Warning: Grammar only. Don't care about these bands.
Bob, you have the grammar only a little mixed up. "Leaving" in this case is what's called a gerund, or a noun that is made from a verb form. So modifying it with an adjective is perfectly OK.
However, "subsequent" implies that the previous action (Moody's having a bad attitude) is over, and that the new action (leaving the band) then started, which isn't really what's intended.
So, to me, no on "subsequent leaving," but it's more a diction issue than a grammatical one.
How about "eventual exit"?
As to the commas, no comma after "dictionary" â€" in general, you need a comma separating clauses only when the subject changes or is restated, and the subject here (implied second person) is the same and omitted.
I agree about the comma after "word" for the same reason: subject change.
No comma after "cookies." This is the infamous serial comma, the comma before the "and" in a series. Usually, it's left out.
You're correct that you need a comma after "website."
The commas around "somewhat vitriolicly" are nonstandard, but kind of "writer's choice." I'd take them out (and rewrite it "with significant vitriol" as "vitriolicly" is nonstandard, of course), but I get it that emphasis is intended. Maybe dashes.
Keep in mind that the intro was ostensibly written and edited by professionals, and should be judged by higher standards than the scribblings of an egoist guitar player.
45 - duane
That's the spirit, Cancer. You were referring to my post (#5) above, right? I still prefer a comma after "cookies." If he had said, "Now have your cookies and milk, and go to bed...", no comma, because then milk is something the writer is suggesting "having" with cookies. To say "...have your cookies and..." suggests that what follows the "and" is also something to be "having," which isn't the case, so a comma seems appropriate.
Beyond that, a nice bowl of ice cream works wonders in these situations.
46 - ClubhouseCancer
Well, it doesn't matter what you prefer, the fact is, most everyone eschews the serial comma, which is the grammar rule here. It's not discretionary.
In your alternate example, you're right, you don't need a comma either. But it's not because of your explanation of the sentence's meaning, it's because the sentence you provided has two verbs, but the same, non-repeated subject, so no comma needed.
Fact is, "discretionary commas" are almost never discretionary. There is always a rule to follow.
47 - duane
Thank you, CC. I stand --- er --- sit, sedentarily, corrected, or, perhaps, I sit sedentarily corrected.
48 - ClubhouseCancer
I'm just amazed anyone found something to discuss about this pissy feud among wimpy rockers and their wispy-singing girlfriends.
Even if it's just grammar. Nice bloggin' at ya.
49 - Eric Olsen
CC, I am a firm supporter of the rules and wish everyone knew them, but there is also a fair amount of wiggle room in punctuation, as long as the writer follows THE cardinal rule of punctuating for clarity. There are times I want the reader to stop, and pause, before moving on, and the only way to achieve that is through punctuation even if the rule says it is more proper to not punctuate at that juncture.
50 - ClubhouseCancer
Eric:
Then I'm glad you don't work for me.
51 - Eric Olsen
Alrighty then, thanks.
52 - ClubhouseCancer
Eric:
I meant no offense, but everyone thinks they can punctuate the way you describe. Your readers would much rather you follow the rules, believe me. And the rules cover everything.
53 - Eric Olsen
I will stick with my statement that clarity, meaning and style are more important than rules if and when they conflict, which shouldn't be all that often.
54 - theo
Hi
I'm really sad about the departure of ben moody, but I'm sure that Evanescence is going to grow as a band. Anyway, I hope too that ben moody will come back after a few years with amy lee in order to write songs. (I wish that he works with somebody else than Avril Lavigne...becaue when he says in an interview on radio that he left 'cause he was disgusted of the industry and there was no friendship and artist connection since a long time with Amy, you don't go work with a girl like avril who just a produce like britney spears.And next you don't say harsh comment on your old friends that he was loving carrying there was 2 month.)
Anyway, I think that they're both down earth and nice people but I don't like the way he explains he's departure. It suggest that it was between him or her to leave of the band. he says that he was a good guy, not a poor rich girl and that he doesn't need a succeful band to define who he was.
I think that those words show his anger. Something happened...none of our business.But I love too much Evanescence so I'm a little curious.
(the love affair seems true : look at the face of moody at the grammys when Amy thanks her boyfriend shawn Morgan, the motley crew side of Ben could be true too, the fact that he doesn't wanted to let the musicians compose new songs and the dictator thing about music seems right but I don't want to dish on him and first I don't no him and he seems to be a good guy. And you know what everybody makes mistakes !!! It's human to not be perfect.
But the grammys were very strange and unhealthy with him and david hodge on the stage. The mood was really creepy.Ben was disgiused like a pimp. Amy was feeling bad.I think he should not come. He's the one who walked away during tour and when you leave a band like this I think that's a shame; and you have no respect to come to a show to get an award. That's no respect for Amy.
I love both of them and the band but Ben should apologizes or do something...and work with true artist and not act like a pimp and earn money on a kid idol as Avril. I hope that it's not going crazy and that he's going to do a good record by himself to show his skills and I wish a long life to EVANESCENCE. BEST BAND EVER.
PS :
I wait the next album of Evanescence. The guitarist of limpbizkit is going to work with Amy and her bandmates.
and look at Resident evil 2 (ben is doing a cameo) and I think that he works on the soundtrack of a Mel Gibson's movie (hope that's not too Christian).
55 - theo
the way the band split is very strange.
on the jacket of the record we can read from Amy thanks at the end :" And ben, my best friend - for seeing me across a crowded room."
from Ben thanks at the end : "And finally...Amy, my best friend. You will always have "all of me"."
56 - Sarah
ben did not write Hello...go to their website and it tells you...it has Amys hand written lyrics..and SHE wrote hello...get it straight..and i dont care if origin was their first cd or not..i was just saying FALLEN WASNT thank you..am i right about that? uhm yes..and theo..the band did not split where did you get that info..i dunno what happened between amy and ben but i dont like it one bit..its shitty..theyve been friends since they were 12 and 13 and they are gonna let some petty shit get in the way..thats ridiculous..but yes amy should leave shaun hes ugly..and stupid..either way i still love evanescence with or without ben..though it is different..but whatever keep em coming evanescence..i still love ya.oh and P.S. if you dont believe me that she wrote hello just look it up..she wrote all of these going under,bring me to life,haunted,taking over me,hello and my last breath.and as you said metal..get your facts straight before you post something...
57 - anonymous
it doesnt matter, in the end it will always be ok, ben gets his solo stuff going, i'll buy that cd, Evanescence does another album, i'll buy that too, if they are happy whats the fuss about? and shaun? we dont know him, so how can their be any jugdements made on him, just let these folks live their lives, they're personal lives are none of our business, and if i was grammatically incorrect anywhere here, my apologies, i dont even know why i posted this stuff, its not like me.
58 - Bobsyouruncle
I'm going to ignore the childish attacks that are coming out of the comment section and instead focus on Mr. Morgan's comments. I must say, I have seen a lot of tactless and classless assholes online, but this fellow really takes the cake. Any respect I may have had for him is gone now.
Ben was right in keeping his mouth shut about the incident. Quite frankly, it is no ones business but his own.
As for Mr. Morgan's band, he should keep his mouth shut before making comments about other people's music. I listened to some of his tracks and they're really nothing to brag about. Quite mundane, actually.
59 - Metal Republican
From Arkansas: Here is the truth behind the Evanescence / Amy and Ben saga. The truth is that no one knows the truth except for two people and God. I have known Amy since she was 16. Her father and I are friends and she gave me a copy of Origin one day while her and her parents were visiting during the summer. The angelic, shy, creative teenager that gave me that CD is the same young woman of today. Just richer. If I were to bet on the reasons why Amy and Ben have failed to maintain a friendship, I would say that (someone) has put pressure on her in ways in which they may not know. (And I don't mean someone from her family.) Amy can handle the price of fame but can others understand how she chooses to deal with it. We all loved Amy before the success and we all believe that she will make the right decisions for 'Amy.' Amy is a talented woman who can inspire the masses. We just need to let her do so and not judge or critize her actions. She knows what is best for her and for Evanescence.
As far as Ben, let's look at it this way. Amy and Ben formed a friendship and look what became of it. A powerful band that has the potential to have global acceptance for many decades. They hit a cord (no pun intended) with millions of people. They are both indepedant, creative, talented people and they don't need outsiders telling them how they should react to suitations in thier lifes. If they choose not to speak then so be it. Leave them alone and let them settle their differences. I don't think what happened was bad enough to create hate between them forever. Sure, Ben walked off on a European tour. Why? Here is the answer. He dealt with a situation the best way he knew how. Don't fault him for doing so. Amy was right in saying what she said and showing her anger. But don't read so much into the politics of the band. Things happen. It all boils down to the spark that ignited the fireball. It was just a spark. The fireball can be contained when and if Amy and Ben choose to do so. It isn't the end of either of thier careers. I can assure you that it has only made them stronger.
To Amy and Ben. Remember that your first reactions to eachothers talents were right. People grow and apart but they should never grow distant.
Mark
Heber Springs, Arkansas
60 - anonymous
word.
61 - Niolos
Maybe I'm wrong here but I do remember reading somewhere that they both wrote songs for some part at least about each other. So just because on the official website you find her lyric journal with a majority (not all) of the lyrics in it, doesn't necessarily mean that he didn't have a part writing them. It's a trivial issue anyway. Also in one interview with Amy I was having trouble discerning whether or not the band was happy about Ben's decision to leave for the sake of him being gone (which seems most unlikely) or just supporting his decision. Maybe Ben isn't the only one to blame. (not to blame Amy) Regardless it doesn't matter, he wanted to leave, he left, the band goes on at least for a while. But it sure must have been a pretty big thing that caused him to leave since Ben and Amy ARE ("were" anymore) Evanescence. That just makes me think he really did have some thing for her. Not like that's scandalous or shocking. BTW, last time I checked, Britney Spears has a natural singing voice. You don't get auditions (especially when your crazy young) w/o packing something. I don't like what she's packing but whatever.
62 - HW Saxton Jr
But what about James Moody?
63 - Eric Olsen
and what of Manny the Moody Mammoth?
64 - Pete
I think Amy's only 20 isn't she? She's burning brightly and I hope she always will - definite talent. The main thing is she and the band have created some wonderful music which I for one listen to all the time; since discovering that the only way to get Origin was to chance one on eBay for $200, which I can't afford anyway, I've been scouring Kazaa for downloads and now have a fairly complete set of material - only Missing is missing! I love it - even the pre-Origin versions which probably the band cringe at artistically, I love'em. (Out of interest - mine anyway! - I came across another band in this process - Within Temptation - and some of its OK but there's a track called Restless that I really wish Amy had done first - its evanescent!).
Finally, I hope new Evanescence will still power along and ballad beautifully and keep me company on the road, at the desk and in my head for many albums to come!
65 - Niolos
Now that I think of it regarding the idea of singers having "pitch fixers" during live performances...That seems like the most stupid idea ever. People that can't sing don't go on tour. Now if you were thinking (whoever brought it up) that the in-ear monitors were pitch fixers thats incorrect. Hopefully you knew that. Would certainly hate to be a singer w/o being able to hear the band.
66 - Kendra
Ben should kick shaun's ASS...And Ben is hotttttttttttt!!!!!!!!!
67 - Sarah
i agree with most of these comments except i would just like to say..amy is not 20 she is 22..her birthday is December 13th 1981..that would make her 22..seeing as i was born only 11 days before that and am 22..i would know..anyways..whatever happened happened and it cant be taken back..well it could if they made up..which i hope they do..he doesnt have to rejoin..but theyshould at least talk to each other again..anyways..evanescence is great..i love all their music..Anywhere is really moving to me..but is that David Hodges singing with her? i have no clue but i would like to know..anyone who has that info..that would be great..ppl should really start learning how to get along on this place..i mean really starting shit over grammar..thats pathetic..but whatever..evanescence rox and always will.
68 - heather
u guys should go to exodusevanescence.com if u haven't already, they have the history of evanescence, althought right now they are remaking the site because of the stuff thats happened, anyway, click on the history section or whatever its called not the site history the other one, i cant remember what its called ANYWAY u guys should go there.EXODUSEVANESCENCE.COM
69 - Red
I'd have to say that Evanescence is nothing new, Amy Lee is another crap girl singer, and Ben Moody can't play the guitar.
Of course, this is coming from a someone who thinks Billy Joel is the greatest singer ever and Edward Van Halen is the greatest guitarist. Eddie wrote a song in the 70's, way before Evanescence, called "Runnin' With The Devil." Not only is this song better than any Evanescence, it's frikkin' Van frikkin' Halen.
Face it - they're nothing more than some people a recording industry decided to give a contract to because they were marketable. The music industry doesn't care about anything except making money anymore. If the whole Ben Moody breakup was staged to draw attention to the band I would NOT be surprised.
Remember this is just my opinion. And I don't like girl singers.
70 - Pete
And why are they marketable? Because people like listening to their music and are willing to buy it! And the concerts, and the t-shirts. Remember there was a huge amount of good stuff before Fallen - an album's worth with Origin plus the EPs and self-cut CDRs - they were talented before the record company came along. The music industry makes money, sure, but it also means a lot more people get to find music they like.
Yes, its a personal thing, but that's half the fun - that's why we can read in amazement that you like Billy Joel! (I knew there was someone...)
71 - Red
Kind of what I meant was, there might have been a band out there like Evanescence, but better, but they took Evanescence because the band members were more physically attractive...that's just one example of what I mean by "marketable." The music industry knows it's selling more than just music.
Yes, I do like Billy Joel, thank you very much. I don't get why he's kind of a joke.
72 - Metal
Sarah... Chill please! all i want to say is that they (Amy and Ben) wrote that song together.It was on an interview when David was still part of the band and John(LeCompt) wasn't. And yes I have seen the hand written lyrics on their web site. I visit it almost everyday (my home page).
Sorry for the conferentation.
73 - Metal
Sarah... Chill please! all i want to say is that they (Amy and Ben) wrote that song together.It was on an interview when David was still part of the band and John(LeCompt) wasn't. And yes I have seen the hand written lyrics on their web site. I visit it almost everyday (my home page).
Sorry for the conferentation.
74 - Red
Hey, what do you guys think of this one: "conferentation."
75 - Pete
Oh no don't start up the grammarians again!
I think a conferentation is an intention to repost a duplicate item. Unfortunately it needs a deconferentation to stop an otherwise endless looping.
Sorry about the Billy Joel thing, he's OK. If we're coming out of the closet here then I'm an Avril fan! (No kidding). I heard her way before Let Go and thought she'd do well. Her success is therefore kind of neat for me. If there are any Forgive Me fans out there - imagine it was an Avril song, not too far removed from possibility huh? (Listen to Tomorrow or Why). I can fully see why Ben has connected with the Avril camp.