A top rule for singers: Contradictory?

Question by Pazzy: A top rule for singers: Contradictory?
You always hear this rule when it is applied to singing; “Never copy an artists voice, it’s bad for you.”

All of the singers in my school, and other singing schools, follow this rule like it’s etched into the Ten Commandments. Our teachers and instructors really emphasize on this, and you often get told off if you do copy another artist.

Why is it so?

Because, as far as I’m concerned, most of the successful singers in the industry actually copy their idols at first. And many, many, many music producers and writers say that one of traits that makes an amazing singer is the ability to mimic the style and form of another artist. Yet, here we are, being encouraged not to mimic another from the very start of teaching.

Now I’m always being scolded often for trying to copy the form of another singer. Down here, it’s taboo, but up there, it’s a gift.

I don’t know what or who to listen to anymore, to be honest. So who is right when it comes to this “Golden Rule of Singing?”

Best answer:

Answer by Jonathan
I guess they want you to develope your own style, and because you can’t exactly sound like the other singer, so you’ll get mad at yourself for not sounding like them. Also, a lot of singers when covering songs tend to have their own style/twist to the song.

Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!