Dear Abby: How do I tell my duo partner he just can’t sing?

Greetings, Abby

I’ve spent the majority of my life performing in small neighborhood venues as a male singer and guitarist. My new duo partner is a good multi-instrumentalist and a kind person. Although he thinks he is a good vocalist, the issue is that he cannot and should not sing. Recently, his new girlfriend told me that she believes he shouldn’t sing because it would harm both our status as a couple and my reputation as a musician. She is unsure about whether or not to inform him. Even though any gigs we get at this point will be one-offs due to the subpar vocal performance that will result, I’m not sure how to inform him either without jeopardizing our collaboration. I’ve had unsuccessful auditions throughout the years and have benefited from helpful critique. Should I tell him or attempt to break up our relationship amicably? OLD CANADIAN ROCKER

Greetings, Rocker

This partner and you have a business relationship rather than a social one. He refuses to acknowledge his limitations. You won’t win him over if you break his bubble by telling him that his singing is limiting you. Finding a replacement and ending the collaboration as politely as possible would be ideal.

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