GENNARO CASTALDO WATCH: Less than a mention

An email hits us from Twangfreak this morning, with worrying news:

Aww, poor Gennaro. He doesn't even get a namecheck in this Guardian article, but his loyal fans can instantly recognise his style. The topic is the many world-cup-themed novelty songs being released this week:

A spokesman for the retailer HMV said the trend for unofficial anthems had sprung from the popularity of New Order's World in Motion in 1990 and the subsequent success of David Baddiel, Frank Skinner and the Lightning Seeds with Three Lions in 1996. "What we have now, with over 30 releases, is really just an extension of this trend, where among today's X-Factor generation, anyone has a chance to have a go and grab their 15 minutes of fame, whether it's C-list celebs trying to cash in, former entertainers who are trying to revive their careers or new acts just trying to break through," he added.

Obvious musical reference points passed off as insight? Check. One pop culture reference passed off as sociology? Check. Description passed off as analysis? Check. The 'X-Factor Generation', '15 minutes of fame' and 'c-list celebs' clichés? Check, check and check.

You are Gennaro Castaldo and I claim my five pounds! (in HMV vouchers)

Uh-oh. Gennaro missing out on his credit? Lets hope it's not the first step in a long line which seems him sent off to the new Ottakers outpost of the HMV empire...

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