Reviewing Lang

Re Robert Hilburn’s review of k.d. lang (“Ode Canada: Lang Draws Inspiration From Above,” Aug. 2): As opposed to an evening of “tired set pieces” sung by a singer “reaching for notes rather than for feeling,” I felt like I was watching one of the truly great pop vocalists of our time. It’s rare to see a performer create a sense of intimacy in a venue the size of the Hollywood Bowl, and watching the surprisingly sexy lang wrap the sold-out crowd around her little finger was a joy to behold.

David Bottrell

Los Angeles

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An open letter to k.d. lang: Caught your act at the Hollywood Bowl. You are, without a doubt, a terrific singer and a great entertainer. Too bad you couldn’t leave it at that. Your political statements ruined the evening for me.

You noted that your mentor is Tony Bennett. He has been quoted as saying that you are the finest living singer. He may be right. However, in the more than 50 years I have spent listening to Tony Bennett and going to his concerts, I have never heard him utter a political word. I don’t know if he is gay or straight, left or right, vegan or barbecue. Nor do I care. What he is is a great entertainer.

Perhaps you could learn something from him. He is elegant, poised and a great artist. When I hear him, I hear love and wonder and great music. Now, when I hear you, I hear politics and hate, and vilification.

You accomplished absolutely nothing at the Hollywood Bowl except turning off many fans. Those who support your position weren’t changed, and the rest of us were disappointed.

John Van Horn

Los Angeles