Amelia Vega, Miss Universe 2003

I did not like the girl who won Miss Universe 2003, Amelia Vega of Dominican Republic. It was not that she was not pretty. She wasn't my type. These things can't be explained. 

I felt she was overwhelming -- her expressions, her actions and I thought she looked too hard (the makeup made her almost look like a pretty boy) -- too polished. Maybe it was the result of her culture or her family upbringing. All that packed into an 18-year-old life. Wow!

But just a few months ago, I saw her again as a judge at Miss Universe 2011 and was astonished to see such a beautiful Miss Universe. I got curious and found out that she is already an established entrepreneur and singer.

This time, I couldn't believe how I much I admired her beauty NOW but I had the opposite feelings when she won in 2003!

I don't know much about Latin music. Most of the commercial artists who come from the Western World (North America) are usually pretty talented -- but not pretty.

It is as though the stereotypical American producer do not go for beauty, but just want singers who are either famous for their voices or can make an impact with their characterizations e.g. Lady Gaga, Pink, Amy Housewine, Adele.

The only female singers I find pretty AND talented nowadays are Taylor Swift and Katherine McPhee.

So I was rather surprised that such a beautiful (really beautiful) woman like Amelia Vega is able to produce a commercial album and get away with it (even though the Latin Music industry might approach business differently from the  English Music industry).

But all praises to Amelia Vega. I now am interested to look at her...hahaha!