Legendary singer-songwriter Paul Anka has voiced strong criticism of the modern music industry, particularly its reliance on technology such as autotune. Anka, who wrote the iconic song "My Way" for Frank Sinatra, believes that artists from his era, like Sinatra and Elvis Presley, possessed an "it factor" and a commitment to live performance that is lacking today.

Anka shared his views during an appearance on "The Magnificent Others" podcast with Billy Corgan. He contrasted the approach of singers from the mid-20th century with contemporary artists, asserting that Frank Sinatra would have reacted with extreme displeasure if offered autotune technology. "He would have thrown a chair at you," Anka stated, emphasizing the dedication to achieving perfection through repeated live takes in the studio during Sinatra's time.

Anka described Sinatra and Presley as "towers" of music who commanded a room and had a unique ability to connect with audiences. He recounted how Presley, despite his immense fame, was a shy individual who worked diligently and expressed admiration for Anka's song "My Way." Anka noted that both he and Presley understood that performing involved more than just singing; it required genuine entertainment.

He also cited Bob Dylan as an artist he admires, but pointed out that Dylan could sometimes perform lackadaisically, leading to audience disappointment. "If you don't entertain people, you're dead," Anka remarked.

Anka expressed a belief that Sinatra's legacy will continue to grow, and that younger generations will come to appreciate "true quality" in music, free from technological enhancements. He recalled Michael Jackson as an exceptionally talented individual he had the opportunity to work with, calling him "so talented."

Beyond Sinatra and Presley, Anka also highlighted Sammy Davis Jr. as an artist who he feels is not fully recognized for his immense talent. "He was a musician. He played drums. He played this, he did that. He sang great," Anka said of Davis Jr., advocating for his greater prominence today. He also suggested that Dean Martin was an underrated singer.

Anka, who wrote "My Way" for Sinatra in 1968, also mentioned penning another song for Davis Jr. that he considered as significant as "My Way."