2015 was an exciting year in music, and these were my favorite tracks of the year. It was tough to narrow down, but here we go.... my ultimate playlist!
Adventure of a Lifetime by Coldplay from the album A Head Full of Dreams-- I am always excited when a new Coldplay album comes out, Chris Martin is one of my favorite lead singers, there's just so much enthusiasm in everything he does. Lyrically, Coldplay is one of the most complex bands out there and Adventure of a Lifetime continues the complex lyric but with a disco sound that is most addictive.
Body on Me by Rita Ora featuring Chris Brown from upcoming Rita Ora album-- Some collaborations are a match made in heaven and this beauty between Rita Ora and Chris Brown is one of those. Somehow Rita makes Chris sound more mature. The song as well as the video is breathy, sexy, convincing, and passionate. I hope this is not the only time these two work together musically, the chemistry is real.
Break Up in a Small Town by Sam Hunt from the album Montevallo-- Welcome to music Sam Hunt! We love you! Sam Hunt is so country but he is so different. He has a rap/ talk twist, an R&B sound at times. He is the perfect mix of everything I love. The song is everything a good song should be, it hits hard and it is so emotional, it is looking to climb to number one on the country charts.
Can't Feel My Face by The Weeknd from the album Beauty Behind the Madness-- Perhaps on other male artist on this list had a year as big as The Weeknd. The only other person who perhaps had a better year musically was Adele.... Hello!The Weeknd exploded onto the scene last when as a relatively unknown artist in the US he sang a duet with Ariana Grande called Love Me Harder that climbed to the tops of the charts; he hasn't looked back. Rolling Stone called it the best song of 2015, critics have compared his vocals to those of Michael Jackson, and he has earned two Grammy nominations for the song-- Record of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance.
Confident by Demi Lovato from the album Confident-- I think Demi Lovato, at the ripe age of 23, is one of those artists who keeps getting better as time goes on. I believe her new album Confident is her best yet, it's fearless. The title track, co written by Lovato herself is a girl power anthem.
Cool for the Summer by Demi Lovato from the album Confident-- Called by some music critics maybe the best summer song ever, Cool for the Summer was the lead single off Lovato's fifth studio album Confident. I think perhaps what I enjoyed about it more than anything else is that when I listen to it, it makes me feel like it's summer all the time, not a bad way to feel. Lovato continues to mature on every album and this single is indicative of that-- there's a certain sex appeal and people are loving it.
Die a Happy Man by Thomas Rhett from the album Tangled Up-- Die a Happy Man is just a legit pure love song. Simple music, simple lyrics, strong delivery, and you have a number one country hit from relative newcomer Thomas Rhett. Rhett says the song was inspired by his wife Lauren and the music video is the two of them and was shot while they vacationed in Hawaii. Look for this one to do well when the country music award nominations come out this entire year.
Energy by Drake from the mixtape If You're Reading This It's Too Late-- In 2015, Drake continued to prove that he is the real deal in rap and that he's a force to be a reckoned with for every other rap star out there. The fact that this song got so much play and was only on a mixtape is amazing to me. It's proof that Drake in constantly evolving creatively and I love it. The premise of the video, Drake pokes fun at a lot of other celebs, the song is not aimed at any one in particular, yet the lines of the song mean business.
Heartbeat Song by Kelly Clarkson from the album Piece by Piece-- Definitely inspired by 80s pop, Heartbeat Song marked a returns of sorts for Clarkson who took a short hiatus to have baby River Rose. Kelly revealed that she had some difficulties with her voice and doubted whether or not she would be able to return full voice. This song was proof that she need not worry, her vocals are intact. Clarkson emphatically proves that she is the best American Idol ever, and is one of the best vocalists bar none. The song is nominated for Best Pop Vocal Performance and I just know that she has as good a chance of winning this as anyone else, if not better.
Hello by Adele from the album 25-- Few artists can say they ever had a year like Adele did in 2015. Besides breaking record after record, Adele proved that no matter how long she stays away, her fans will always return. The song has hit number one in numerous countries and look for her to clean up big time at all the major music award shows in the next year.
Here by Alessia Cara from the debut album Know It All-- Alessia Cara says grown men have approached her to thank her for writing "Here". Cara says the song is secretly about people who hate going to parties and social events. I can relate. I love Alessia's sound, and I think what I like the most about her is that she makes being an introvert cool again. It's good to be different is what her song says, and I don't mind singing it out loud.
The Hills by The Weeknd from the album Beauty Behind the Madness-- Sex, drugs, and rock and roll or in this case, R&B. It's pretty much what The Hills is all about. The Weeknd continues on this song to take us into his dark world, and people must really love it because it was his third hit in 2015 and replaced Can't Feel My Face at number one. The Weeknd is only the second artist to do this on a debut album (the other was Rihanna).
Hotline Bling by Drake from the upcoming album Views From the Six-- If anything, this song has been controversial from the lyrics to the video; Drake knows how to make people talk about him and sing along at times. Many feminist critics said the song was slut shaming-- asking your ex why she isn't coming over to be friends with benefits anymore because she's moved on to someone else? And the video, Drake's rap competition made fun of the way he danced saying he made a fool of himself in the video.
How Deep is Your Love by Calvin Harris and the Disciples-- Supposedly, allegedly inspired by his relationship with Taylor Swift, How Deep Is Your Love may just be one of my fave Calvin Harris songs ever! I love the beat, I love the uncredited vocals, and I love that it is literally begging someone to answer the question of How Deep is Your Love. Oh, and for all the guys out there, did I mention the video stars the gorgeous Gigi Hadid?
Lay Me Down by Sam Smith from the album In the Lonely Hour-- This makes it on here because although this was Smith's debut single from 2013, it only charted in 2015 after he re-recorded it and re-released it. This song is a triumphant declaration from the heart. It literally gets me every time, lyrically it's beautiful and vocally, it's perfection. If this is a debut, what comes next? I can't wait.
Love Me Like You Do by Ellie Goulding from the Fifty Shades of Grey original soundtrack-- This was Gouldings first number one hit in many countries. In fact, she almost did not get the song at all because she wasn't interested in doing a song for a soundtrack, and at one point, the song was going to be given to Demi Lovato. Personally, I think Ellie's voice really suits the song and I love that it has received Grammy and Golden Globe nominations.
The Night is Still Young by Nicki Minaj from the album the Pinkprint-- Let me tell you what I love about this song... this song is proof that Nicki is not just a rapper but a singer and an entertainer, this woman has a voice. I also love how she has so much versatility, she can rap about something really serious but then she can sing this light almost romantic song. I cannot wait to see what Nicki does next.
On My Mind by Ellie Goulding from the album Delirium-- Everyone knows I am a big Ed Sheeran fan and he wrote the song Don't about a girl who was going out with who he had real feelings for who cheated on him with someone else. Many say it was about Ellie Goulding cheating on him with Niall from 1D. On My Mind is said to be the answer song to Don't. Ellie describes a one night stand where she was with someone she shouldn't have been with. The music video is fun and very Thelma & Louise, many say it's her best single to date.
Out of the Woods by Taylor Swift from the album 1989-- Described by Taylor as a song that is about the "fragility and breakable nature of some relationships," it's about going through the day in and day out, the ups and the downs and wondering if you're going to get through it or not, wondering if the relationship is going to work. Some say this song is about her former relationship with Harry Styles from 1D. The video to the song premiered on New Year's Rockin' Eve and we may be talking about this song again in 2016 since it looks to climb the charts this year. It would be no surprise to say Taylor has another hit on her hands.
Should've Been Us by Tori Kelly from the debut album Unbreakable Smile-- When Tori Kelly was 16, she auditioned for American Idol and made it all the way to Hollywood week only to get cut. I love American Idol, but hearing Tori's voice now makes me think that they made a huge mistake. Not only does she have a killer voice, but she's also a songwriter which is becoming more and more rare in the music industry. It makes Tori a diamond in the rough. Ignore the horribly pointless video.
Sorry by Justin Bieber from the album Purpose-- The song has already made it to number one, and I have to say, I was never a huge Justin Bieber fan but so many of the songs from this album have so much maturity to them and I am really enjoying listening to these new songs and hearing/ seeing this new side of Justin Bieber. Many fully believe that the song is an apology to former girlfriend Selena Gomez. Justin says the song is about manning up and apologizing for mistakes.
Stitches by Shawn Mendes from the debut album Handwritten-- I think Stitches had the distinction of being the slowest climb to number one of any song. It's one of those songs I kept hearing on the radio for a good portion of the year. Mendes says the song is about feeling heartbroken and beaten up, which I think is honestly something that most can relate to. As a side note, I am loving his duet with Camilla Cabello, I Know What You Did Last Summer.
Style by Taylor Swift from the album 1989-- Rumored to be about her romance with Harry Styles, Style (get it?) was a stylish song that hit right before the summer, and I think it was definitely one of the songs of Summer 2015. Critics loved the song, many said it was the best track on 1989, said it fit like a "cashmere lined leather glove".
Sugar by Maroon 5 from the album V-- Maroon 5 is one of my all time favorite bands ever, and this song is them at their best. Adam's vocals are so on point and perfect, and lyrically, I feel like every woman out there is thinking, Adam is singing to me. The video to the song was inspired by the movie Wedding Crashers and features the band crashing weddings and singing. The expressions from the brides and grooms and their guests are absolutely priceless. The song is up for Best Pop Duo/ Group Performance at the Grammy Awards, and it's my pick to win.
Want to Want Me by Jason Derulo from the album Everything is 4-- Despite the fact that I am unhappy with Jason's latest choice in girlfriends.... Daphne Joy? Really Jason, really?.... I will say that I absolutely loved Want to Want Me. Maybe it's because I am a child of the 80s and this song is so 80s, or maybe it's his ridiculous falsetto that never fails to impress me, but the song was a hit, and every time it came on the radio, I turned it up.
What Do You Mean? by Justin Bieber from the album Purpose-- In year's past, if you would have asked me if Justin Bieber would have appeared on any fave songs of the year post I wrote, I would have told you, you were crazy, and yet, the last two songs on this post are by Justin Bieber and he appeared a total of three times on my list for 2015. What Do You Mean? is all about a more grown up and more mature Biebs; it debuted at number one, and it proves that this kid knows how to make a come back. The song itself is simple but complicated with a super catchy hook, and is a sequel of sorts to the Skrillex/ Diplo song Where Are U Now? So good is What Do You Mean? that I fully believe it will be a candidate for award shows this year as well as next.
Where Are U Now? by Justin Bieber from the album Skrillex and Diplo Present Jack U-- Skrillex and Diplo said that when they decided to release an album they wanted to do something unexpected and working with Justin Bieber was unexpected. The song to me is lyrically an anthem for a love that has broken apart and you desperately need it back, but you want the other person to realize your worth too.
Showing posts with label jason derulo. Show all posts
Showing posts with label jason derulo. Show all posts
Sunday, January 10, 2016
Monday, January 23, 2012
My Top Songs of 2011: Why Did I Choose Them, Part 2
Wow, well I am annoyed, I saved half of this and somehow it erased and I had to start all over again.
Bruno Mars had a break out year when he collaborated with B.O.B. on Nothin on You, but he confirmed his credibility as an artist with Grenade. At the Grammy Awards last year, he showed a lot of seasoned pros how it's done with his performance of the very song that landed him atop many of the year end charts. The song is also up for some serious awards at this year's Grammys, including Song of the Year and Record of the Year.
Charts:
#1 US Billboard Hot 100
#11 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard)
#3 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
Black, black, black and blue
Beat me 'til I'm numb
Tell the devil I said "Hey" when you get back to where you're from
Mad woman, bad woman
That's just what you are
Yeah, you smile in my face then rip the brakes out my car
I was a fan of Drake before Best I Ever Had was officially released a single, his cool swagger, his quiet but strong personality, his confidence, it all told a story for me. Finally, there was a rap artist without all the drama, so different from the stereotype; Drake was born. There was so much hype before the release of his debut album Thank Me Later, and he lived up the type, much like label mate Nicki Minaj (more on her later). So, one can only imagine the hype for his follow up, Take Care. Drake did not disappoint once again and released the single Headlines. Headlines was simple in nature, a song about what else, Drake's fame! Drake was quick to say it is not the best single on the album, but it is the song of the moment, and it is a song with a clear message. Amen to that.
Charts:
#2 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#17 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
Being that last year they made it official and are now husband and wife, it's only fitting that Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton just so happen to be back to back on my favorite songs list. I promise I didn't do it on purpose, I noticed it after I made my list and put all the songs into alphabetical order. Both had breakout years, she with the albums Revolution and Four and he with Red River Blue. Miranda Lambert has the personality of a spitfire. I admire her tenacity and toughness, she's the woman everyone wants to have as a friend and she's the woman every guy wants to be with. She's strong and last year was the year of her life, she won multiple awards at the CMA's and ACM's, and she looks to make it another banner year with the Grammy nominations she has lined up. Miranda talks about who she is in her hit Heart Like Mine, a song I hold close to my heart. Blake became a judge on the hit NBC reality series The Voice, and 2011 launched him to super stardom with the song Honey Bee. Honey Bee is a timeless song with lyrics that are fun, but also very real and honest. Much like his wife, Blake also took home loads of CMA's and ACM's this past year. I cannot even imagine what 2012 is going to bring for this country couple.
Charts:
Hers:
#1 US Country Songs (Billboard)
#44 US Billboard Hot 100
His:
#13 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Country Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
Hers:
I ain’t the kind you take home to mama
I ain’t the kind to wear no ring
Somehow I always get stronger
When I’m on my second drink
His:
If you’ll be my soft and sweet
I’ll be your strong and steady
You be my glass of wine
I’ll be your shot of whiskey
You be my sunny day
I’ll be your shade tree
You be my honeysuckle
I’ll be your honey bee
How To Love showed me a completely new and different side of Lil Wayne. The song has a powerful message, it's about loving yourself, making something of yourself; rumor has it that the idea for the video was all Wayne. The song was also a big crossover hit for Wayne making it onto the pop billboards as well.
Charts:
#5 US Billboard Hot 100
#2 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#9 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#2 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
See I just want you to know that you deserve the best
You're beautiful, you're beautiful
How long was it that we all waited for Dr. Dre to make a come back? I don't even remember now, but it was long enough, and it was well worth the wait. Not only was I Need a Doctor one of the best rap singles of the year, but it was genius to have Eminem and Skylar Grey as guests on the track. The video is exciting, explosive, and reflects on the career of a rap legend. It is my pick for Rap/ Sung Collaboration of the year at this year's Grammys (truth be told I want it to be a tie with this song, and DJ Khaled's I'm on One ;-)).
Charts:
#4 US Billboard Hot 100
#19 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#24 US Bubbling Under R&B/Hip-Hop Singles (Billboard)
#16 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
You saved my life now maybe it's my turn to save yours
But I can never repay you what you did for me is way more
But I ain't giving up faith
And you ain't giving up on me
Britney Spears confirmed her return to the pop princess throne when she released her seventh studio album Femme Fatale. Femme Fatale was deemed a dance album, but critics also proclaimed it as an album that returned Spears to top form, she had returned to her roots, and what made her famous in the first place. No song made that statement more true than I Wanna Go, a fun upbeat dance song with an infectious hook. The video was pure delight, a hidden message from Britney to what she thinks about the media. Some critics even went as far as saying that it is her best single ever! She was snubbed at this year's Grammys which, I must admit, I am not happy about.
Charts:
#7 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
Be A Little Inappropriate
Cause I Know That Everybody’s Thinkin' It
When The Lights Out
The first time I heard I'm On One, I was in my car, and I heard Drake's voice, and the beat was ridiculously infectious. I listened to the song all the way through and then heard Rick Ross, and Lil Wayne and the D.J. started talking about how the track was produced by D.J. Khaled. At that moment, I thought to myself, wow, this guy is gonna blow up, and I texted my friend who is a huge music fan and the rest is history. I blinked and it went all the way to number on the Billboard Rap charts. The song is just good, the verses are so lyrically solid, the song just makes you smile if you understand rap music because there is something about it that is so swag.
Charts:
#10 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
#35 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
But get it while you here boy
Cause all that hype don’t feel the same next year boy
Yeah and I’ll be right here in my spot with a little more cash than I already got
Trippin off you cause you had your shot
and
All I care about is money and the city that I’m from
I’ma sip until I feel it, I’ma smoke it till it’s done
One of the most underrated singles of the year, It Girl sung and co written by Jason Derulo technically should have been bigger than his first single Whatcha Say. I am still holding onto hope that at some point this year, it will pick up more radio air play. The lyrics are sweet and the song is exactly the type that anyone could sing along to. Best of all is the message and what the song is about, Derulo says, this song is about him finding the girl of his dreams. I bet a lot of ladies are wishing it was them.
Charts:
#17 US Billboard Hot 100
#6 US Hot Dance Club Songs
#10 US Pop Songs
Fave line from the song:
You could be my it girl
Baby you're the sh*t girl
Lovin' you could be a crime
Crazy how we fit girl
This is it girl
Give me 25 to life
I just wanna rock all night long
And put you in the middle of my spotlight
You could be my it girl
You're my biggest hit girl
If there's one thing Bruno Mars knows how to do, it's write a song full of emotion; he accomplished that perfectly when he co wrote It Will Rain for Twilight's Soundtrack. The song is a sweeping heartfelt ballad that's just as dramatic as the movie it accompanies, but it also stands on it's own. It Will Rain has timeless lyrics and Mars's vocals are on point as always. Mars says that he began writing the song when he was on tour, but he never finished it, seeing the Twilight movie inspired him to finish the song. Ii cannot wait to see what's coming up for him; I've been most impressed so far.
Charts:
#3 US Billboard Hot 100
Fave line from the song:
Cause there'll be no sunlight
if I lose you, baby
There'll be no clear skies
if I lose you, baby
Just like the clouds,
my eyes will do the same if you walk away
Everyday, it will rain,
rain, rain
Bruno Mars had a break out year when he collaborated with B.O.B. on Nothin on You, but he confirmed his credibility as an artist with Grenade. At the Grammy Awards last year, he showed a lot of seasoned pros how it's done with his performance of the very song that landed him atop many of the year end charts. The song is also up for some serious awards at this year's Grammys, including Song of the Year and Record of the Year.
Charts:
#1 US Billboard Hot 100
#11 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard)
#3 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
Black, black, black and blue
Beat me 'til I'm numb
Tell the devil I said "Hey" when you get back to where you're from
Mad woman, bad woman
That's just what you are
Yeah, you smile in my face then rip the brakes out my car
I was a fan of Drake before Best I Ever Had was officially released a single, his cool swagger, his quiet but strong personality, his confidence, it all told a story for me. Finally, there was a rap artist without all the drama, so different from the stereotype; Drake was born. There was so much hype before the release of his debut album Thank Me Later, and he lived up the type, much like label mate Nicki Minaj (more on her later). So, one can only imagine the hype for his follow up, Take Care. Drake did not disappoint once again and released the single Headlines. Headlines was simple in nature, a song about what else, Drake's fame! Drake was quick to say it is not the best single on the album, but it is the song of the moment, and it is a song with a clear message. Amen to that.
Charts:
#2 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#17 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
Being that last year they made it official and are now husband and wife, it's only fitting that Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton just so happen to be back to back on my favorite songs list. I promise I didn't do it on purpose, I noticed it after I made my list and put all the songs into alphabetical order. Both had breakout years, she with the albums Revolution and Four and he with Red River Blue. Miranda Lambert has the personality of a spitfire. I admire her tenacity and toughness, she's the woman everyone wants to have as a friend and she's the woman every guy wants to be with. She's strong and last year was the year of her life, she won multiple awards at the CMA's and ACM's, and she looks to make it another banner year with the Grammy nominations she has lined up. Miranda talks about who she is in her hit Heart Like Mine, a song I hold close to my heart. Blake became a judge on the hit NBC reality series The Voice, and 2011 launched him to super stardom with the song Honey Bee. Honey Bee is a timeless song with lyrics that are fun, but also very real and honest. Much like his wife, Blake also took home loads of CMA's and ACM's this past year. I cannot even imagine what 2012 is going to bring for this country couple.
Charts:
Hers:
#1 US Country Songs (Billboard)
#44 US Billboard Hot 100
His:
#13 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Country Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
Hers:
I ain’t the kind you take home to mama
I ain’t the kind to wear no ring
Somehow I always get stronger
When I’m on my second drink
His:
If you’ll be my soft and sweet
I’ll be your strong and steady
You be my glass of wine
I’ll be your shot of whiskey
You be my sunny day
I’ll be your shade tree
You be my honeysuckle
I’ll be your honey bee
How To Love showed me a completely new and different side of Lil Wayne. The song has a powerful message, it's about loving yourself, making something of yourself; rumor has it that the idea for the video was all Wayne. The song was also a big crossover hit for Wayne making it onto the pop billboards as well.
Charts:
#5 US Billboard Hot 100
#2 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#9 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#2 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
See I just want you to know that you deserve the best
You're beautiful, you're beautiful
How long was it that we all waited for Dr. Dre to make a come back? I don't even remember now, but it was long enough, and it was well worth the wait. Not only was I Need a Doctor one of the best rap singles of the year, but it was genius to have Eminem and Skylar Grey as guests on the track. The video is exciting, explosive, and reflects on the career of a rap legend. It is my pick for Rap/ Sung Collaboration of the year at this year's Grammys (truth be told I want it to be a tie with this song, and DJ Khaled's I'm on One ;-)).
Charts:
#4 US Billboard Hot 100
#19 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#24 US Bubbling Under R&B/Hip-Hop Singles (Billboard)
#16 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
You saved my life now maybe it's my turn to save yours
But I can never repay you what you did for me is way more
But I ain't giving up faith
And you ain't giving up on me
Britney Spears confirmed her return to the pop princess throne when she released her seventh studio album Femme Fatale. Femme Fatale was deemed a dance album, but critics also proclaimed it as an album that returned Spears to top form, she had returned to her roots, and what made her famous in the first place. No song made that statement more true than I Wanna Go, a fun upbeat dance song with an infectious hook. The video was pure delight, a hidden message from Britney to what she thinks about the media. Some critics even went as far as saying that it is her best single ever! She was snubbed at this year's Grammys which, I must admit, I am not happy about.
Charts:
#7 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
Be A Little Inappropriate
Cause I Know That Everybody’s Thinkin' It
When The Lights Out
The first time I heard I'm On One, I was in my car, and I heard Drake's voice, and the beat was ridiculously infectious. I listened to the song all the way through and then heard Rick Ross, and Lil Wayne and the D.J. started talking about how the track was produced by D.J. Khaled. At that moment, I thought to myself, wow, this guy is gonna blow up, and I texted my friend who is a huge music fan and the rest is history. I blinked and it went all the way to number on the Billboard Rap charts. The song is just good, the verses are so lyrically solid, the song just makes you smile if you understand rap music because there is something about it that is so swag.
Charts:
#10 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
#35 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
But get it while you here boy
Cause all that hype don’t feel the same next year boy
Yeah and I’ll be right here in my spot with a little more cash than I already got
Trippin off you cause you had your shot
and
All I care about is money and the city that I’m from
I’ma sip until I feel it, I’ma smoke it till it’s done
One of the most underrated singles of the year, It Girl sung and co written by Jason Derulo technically should have been bigger than his first single Whatcha Say. I am still holding onto hope that at some point this year, it will pick up more radio air play. The lyrics are sweet and the song is exactly the type that anyone could sing along to. Best of all is the message and what the song is about, Derulo says, this song is about him finding the girl of his dreams. I bet a lot of ladies are wishing it was them.
Charts:
#17 US Billboard Hot 100
#6 US Hot Dance Club Songs
#10 US Pop Songs
Fave line from the song:
You could be my it girl
Baby you're the sh*t girl
Lovin' you could be a crime
Crazy how we fit girl
This is it girl
Give me 25 to life
I just wanna rock all night long
And put you in the middle of my spotlight
You could be my it girl
You're my biggest hit girl
If there's one thing Bruno Mars knows how to do, it's write a song full of emotion; he accomplished that perfectly when he co wrote It Will Rain for Twilight's Soundtrack. The song is a sweeping heartfelt ballad that's just as dramatic as the movie it accompanies, but it also stands on it's own. It Will Rain has timeless lyrics and Mars's vocals are on point as always. Mars says that he began writing the song when he was on tour, but he never finished it, seeing the Twilight movie inspired him to finish the song. Ii cannot wait to see what's coming up for him; I've been most impressed so far.
Charts:
#3 US Billboard Hot 100
Fave line from the song:
Cause there'll be no sunlight
if I lose you, baby
There'll be no clear skies
if I lose you, baby
Just like the clouds,
my eyes will do the same if you walk away
Everyday, it will rain,
rain, rain
Monday, January 9, 2012
My Top Songs of 2011: Why Did I Choose Them, Part 1
All of the Lights, off Kanye West's fifth album “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy”, has an undeniably infectious hook sung by a literal hit-maker named Rihanna and co written by another hit-maker, Kanye West. The song was released in January of last year, and yet became one of the anthems of 2011, even earning three Grammy nominations for Song of the Year, Best Rap Song, Best Rap/ Sung Collaboration. As you can probably hear, the song has a chorus of guest singers including: Alicia Keys, John Legend, Kid Cudi, The Dream, Drake, Fergie, Elton John, Ryan Leslie, Charlie Wilson, Tony Wilson, Elly Jackson, Alvin Fields, Ken Lewis, and of course, Rihanna.
Charts:
#2 on US Hot R&B/ Hip Hop Songs
#2 on US Rap Songs
Fave line from the song:
Turn up the lights in here baby
Extra bright, I want y'all to see this
Turn up the lights in here baby
You know what I need
Want you to see everything
Want you to see all of the lights
I didn't even know who the married duo Thompson Square was until Scotty McCreery sang Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not, that moment solidified for me that he should be the American Idol, and it turned Thompson Square's single into a bonafied country hit, so much so it climbed all the way to #1 on the US Country Song Billboards.
Charts:
#1 on the US Country Song Billboards
Fave line from the song:
Are you gonna kiss me or not?
Are we gonna do this or what?
I think you know I love you a lot
I think we've got a real good shot
Are you gonna kiss me or not?
Blackout by Breathe Carolina was a song I heard for the first time on the radio, I had no idea who sang it, and I went home and googled the lyrics to figure out who the song was by. I discovered the song was written and recorded by Breathe Carolina, an electronic rock duo from Denver, they were even deemed "buzzworthy" by MTV for the catchiness of the song.
Charts:
#20 US Pop Songs
Fave line from the song:
This won't stop until I say so
Call Your Girlfriend is one of the most underrated songs of the past year; Robyn continues to amaze me with her unusual musicality. She's smart and lyrically talented; she dares to be different consistently pushing the envelope in every performance and every video. It's hard to believe that at the age of 32, Robyn is one her seventh studio album Body Talk, it feels like yesterday that she was that teenager singing "Show Me Love". She's come a long way and once the rest of you discover her, you won't be able to get her hypnotic songs out of your head.
Charts:
#1 US Hot Dance Club Songs (nomination for best dance track at the Grammy's)
Fave line from the song:
Call your girlfriend
It's time you had the talk
Give your reasons
Say it's not her fault
But you just met somebody new
And now it's gonna be me and you
Cheers (Drink to That) by Rihanna made my list because it became a summer anthem of sorts-- a happy celebratory song that could be used for just about any party, the video was particularly interesting because it gave us a glimpse into Rihanna's real life. I liked what I saw; she seems so genuine, cheers to Rihanna.
Charts:
#7 US Billboard Hot 100
#11 US Pop Songs Billboard
Fave line from the song:
Cheers to the freakin' weekend
I drink to that, yeah yeah
Oh, let the Jameson sink in
I drink to that, yeah yeah
Don't let the bastards get ya down
Turn it around with another round
There's a party at the bar everybody put your glasses up and I drink to that
I drink to that.
Colder Weather was called "lyrically profound" by critics and hit number one on US Country Song Billboards. Laim Hemsworth appeared in the video about a guy who leaves his girlfriend temporarily in the winter. If that isn't a good plot line I don't know what is.
Charts:
#1 US Country Songs Billboard
Jason Aldean had arguably the biggest year of his career when his album My Kinda Party was released in 2010. Dirt Road Anthem was one of the songs that came off that album which solidified his standing as one of the current stars of country music. Interestingly enough, the song is considered "country rap", Ludacris even performed the song with Aldean on the CMT Awards; there's a combo I never expected.
Charts:
#1 US Country Songs Billboard
#7 US Billboard Hot 100
Fave line from the song:
I'm chillin' on a dirt road.
Laid back swervin' like I'm George Jones.
Smoke rollin' out the window,
An' ice cold beer sittin' in the console.
Jason Derulo recently cancelled his upcoming tour after he landed on his neck doing some "acrobatic" dance moves. Besides Derulo being an extremely talented singer/ songwriter, he is also one of the best dancers to come out of music in a long time. It seems Derulo wants to bring back the days of Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, and Paula Abdul who were not merely singers, but performers. They had the whole package and so does Derulo. Don't Wanna Go Home off Derlo's sophomore album "Future History", is based on the song "Day-O", and Derulo says the song is all about feeling good and forgetting about your problems.
Charts:
#14 US Billboard Hot 100
#4 US Hot Dance Club Songs
#10 US Pop Songs
Fave line from the song:
Ayo me say day oh
Daylight come and we don't wanna go home
Yeah so we losing control
Turn the lights low cause we about to get blown
Don't You Wanna Stay is one of those dream duets. A dream duet is a duet that takes place between two artists who compliment each other so well you think they've been singing together their whole lives. This is what happened when Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson got together on Don't You Wanna Stay which ended up not only being a country hit but a crossover hit as well. It is nominated for Best Country/ Duo Performance at the Grammy's.
Charts:
#1 US Country Songs Billboard
#3 US Adult Contemporary Billboard
#9 US Adult Pop Song Billboard
Fave line from the song:
Don't you wanna stay here a little while?
Don't you wanna hold each other tight?
Don't you wanna fall asleep with me tonight?
Don't you wanna stay here a little while?
We can make forever feel this way
Don't you wanna stay?
I will be the first to admit that for the past couple of years I have hated a lot on Lady Gaga. I felt like she was purposely being weird to get attention, and in some ways, I still feel like she pushes it too much. However, on Thanksgiving night, when Lady Gaga aired her special, I related to her in a way that I never had before. It was during her interview with Barbara Walters in which she talked about her childhood, growing up, her grandparent's deep love for one another, and how she never gave up on her dreams. The Edge of Glory is actually a song about the death of Gaga's beloved grandfather, and it is touching, emotional, and includes a sax interlude by Clarence Clemens of Bruce Springsteen's E-Street Band who died shortly after recording this part in this single.
Charts:
#1 US Hot Dance Club Songs
#2 US Adult Pop Songs
#3 US Billboard Hot 100
#3 US Pop Songs
#7 US Adult Contemporary
Fave line from the song:
I'm on the edge of glory
And I'm hanging on a moment with you
I'm on the edge with you
Charts:
#2 on US Hot R&B/ Hip Hop Songs
#2 on US Rap Songs
Fave line from the song:
Turn up the lights in here baby
Extra bright, I want y'all to see this
Turn up the lights in here baby
You know what I need
Want you to see everything
Want you to see all of the lights
I didn't even know who the married duo Thompson Square was until Scotty McCreery sang Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not, that moment solidified for me that he should be the American Idol, and it turned Thompson Square's single into a bonafied country hit, so much so it climbed all the way to #1 on the US Country Song Billboards.
Charts:
#1 on the US Country Song Billboards
Fave line from the song:
Are you gonna kiss me or not?
Are we gonna do this or what?
I think you know I love you a lot
I think we've got a real good shot
Are you gonna kiss me or not?
Blackout by Breathe Carolina was a song I heard for the first time on the radio, I had no idea who sang it, and I went home and googled the lyrics to figure out who the song was by. I discovered the song was written and recorded by Breathe Carolina, an electronic rock duo from Denver, they were even deemed "buzzworthy" by MTV for the catchiness of the song.
Charts:
#20 US Pop Songs
Fave line from the song:
This won't stop until I say so
Call Your Girlfriend is one of the most underrated songs of the past year; Robyn continues to amaze me with her unusual musicality. She's smart and lyrically talented; she dares to be different consistently pushing the envelope in every performance and every video. It's hard to believe that at the age of 32, Robyn is one her seventh studio album Body Talk, it feels like yesterday that she was that teenager singing "Show Me Love". She's come a long way and once the rest of you discover her, you won't be able to get her hypnotic songs out of your head.
Charts:
#1 US Hot Dance Club Songs (nomination for best dance track at the Grammy's)
Fave line from the song:
Call your girlfriend
It's time you had the talk
Give your reasons
Say it's not her fault
But you just met somebody new
And now it's gonna be me and you
Cheers (Drink to That) by Rihanna made my list because it became a summer anthem of sorts-- a happy celebratory song that could be used for just about any party, the video was particularly interesting because it gave us a glimpse into Rihanna's real life. I liked what I saw; she seems so genuine, cheers to Rihanna.
Charts:
#7 US Billboard Hot 100
#11 US Pop Songs Billboard
Fave line from the song:
Cheers to the freakin' weekend
I drink to that, yeah yeah
Oh, let the Jameson sink in
I drink to that, yeah yeah
Don't let the bastards get ya down
Turn it around with another round
There's a party at the bar everybody put your glasses up and I drink to that
I drink to that.
Colder Weather was called "lyrically profound" by critics and hit number one on US Country Song Billboards. Laim Hemsworth appeared in the video about a guy who leaves his girlfriend temporarily in the winter. If that isn't a good plot line I don't know what is.
Charts:
#1 US Country Songs Billboard
Jason Aldean had arguably the biggest year of his career when his album My Kinda Party was released in 2010. Dirt Road Anthem was one of the songs that came off that album which solidified his standing as one of the current stars of country music. Interestingly enough, the song is considered "country rap", Ludacris even performed the song with Aldean on the CMT Awards; there's a combo I never expected.
Charts:
#1 US Country Songs Billboard
#7 US Billboard Hot 100
Fave line from the song:
I'm chillin' on a dirt road.
Laid back swervin' like I'm George Jones.
Smoke rollin' out the window,
An' ice cold beer sittin' in the console.
Jason Derulo recently cancelled his upcoming tour after he landed on his neck doing some "acrobatic" dance moves. Besides Derulo being an extremely talented singer/ songwriter, he is also one of the best dancers to come out of music in a long time. It seems Derulo wants to bring back the days of Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, and Paula Abdul who were not merely singers, but performers. They had the whole package and so does Derulo. Don't Wanna Go Home off Derlo's sophomore album "Future History", is based on the song "Day-O", and Derulo says the song is all about feeling good and forgetting about your problems.
Charts:
#14 US Billboard Hot 100
#4 US Hot Dance Club Songs
#10 US Pop Songs
Fave line from the song:
Ayo me say day oh
Daylight come and we don't wanna go home
Yeah so we losing control
Turn the lights low cause we about to get blown
Don't You Wanna Stay is one of those dream duets. A dream duet is a duet that takes place between two artists who compliment each other so well you think they've been singing together their whole lives. This is what happened when Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson got together on Don't You Wanna Stay which ended up not only being a country hit but a crossover hit as well. It is nominated for Best Country/ Duo Performance at the Grammy's.
Charts:
#1 US Country Songs Billboard
#3 US Adult Contemporary Billboard
#9 US Adult Pop Song Billboard
Fave line from the song:
Don't you wanna stay here a little while?
Don't you wanna hold each other tight?
Don't you wanna fall asleep with me tonight?
Don't you wanna stay here a little while?
We can make forever feel this way
Don't you wanna stay?
I will be the first to admit that for the past couple of years I have hated a lot on Lady Gaga. I felt like she was purposely being weird to get attention, and in some ways, I still feel like she pushes it too much. However, on Thanksgiving night, when Lady Gaga aired her special, I related to her in a way that I never had before. It was during her interview with Barbara Walters in which she talked about her childhood, growing up, her grandparent's deep love for one another, and how she never gave up on her dreams. The Edge of Glory is actually a song about the death of Gaga's beloved grandfather, and it is touching, emotional, and includes a sax interlude by Clarence Clemens of Bruce Springsteen's E-Street Band who died shortly after recording this part in this single.
Charts:
#1 US Hot Dance Club Songs
#2 US Adult Pop Songs
#3 US Billboard Hot 100
#3 US Pop Songs
#7 US Adult Contemporary
Fave line from the song:
I'm on the edge of glory
And I'm hanging on a moment with you
I'm on the edge with you
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
My Favorite Things: November 2011 Edition
I cannot get Jason Derulo out of my head, he has produced hit after hit since his debut at the end of 2009: Whatcha Say, In My Head, Ridin' Solo, Don't Wanna Go Home, What If, and It Girl (which I cannot help but hit the replay button for). At just 22 years of age, Derulo has written hits for major artists like Danity Kane, Cassie, Sean Kingston, Pitbull, and Lil Wayne just to name a few. He has established himself as a triple threat dancing, singing, and acting. I think he's the more talented, more mature version of someone like say, Chris Brown. Derulo has class, drive, and he wants to make a good cross section of music that everyone can listen to, and frankly, he has succeeded.
He really embodies the title of his new album, Future History!
I'm in love with the new Oval Paperweights from Felix Doolittle; these would be a perfect holiday gift for just about anyone. The $35 price is more than reasonable, especially considering that it's high quality. In fact, I almost guarantee that your only issue will be deciding which image most inspires you. I am currently deciding between Blue Bird, Jolly Tortoise, Mountain Lion, and Raven of Truth.
The CMA's! Country music's biggest night is live on Wednesday November 9th at 8pm on ABC with hosts Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley once again doing the honors. Check out the nominees, make your predictions, and maybe I will even share mine.
2011 CMA AWARDS NOMINEES
Entertainer of the Year
Jason Aldean
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Taylor Swift
Keith Urban
Female Vocalist of the Year
Sara Evans
Miranda Lambert
Martina McBride
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood
Male Vocalist of the Year
Jason Aldean
Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Keith Urban
New Artist
The Band Perry
Luke Bryan
Eric Church
Thompson Square
Chris Young
Vocal Group
Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Rascal Flatts
The Band Perry
Zac Brown Band
Vocal Duo
The Civil Wars
Montgomery Gentry
Steel Magnolia
Sugarland
Thompson Square
Album of the Year
(Award goes to artist and producer)
'All About Tonight'
Blake Shelton
Produced by Scott Hendricks
'My Kinda Party'
Jason Aldean
Produced by Michael Knox
'Speak Now'
Taylor Swift
Produced by Nathan Chapman and Taylor Swift
'This Is Country Music'
Brad Paisley
Produced by Frank Rogers
'You Get What You Give'
Zac Brown Band
Produced by Keith Stegall and Zac Brown
Single of the Year
(Award goes to artist and producer)
'A Little Bit Stronger'
Sara Evans
Produced by Tony Brown
'Colder Weather'
Zac Brown Band
Produced by Keith Stegall and Zac Brown
'Don't You Wanna Stay'
Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson
Produced by Michael Knox
'Honey Bee'
Blake Shelton
Produced by Scott Hendricks
'If I Die Young'
The Band Perry
Produced by Paul Worley
Song of the Year
(Award goes to songwriters)
'Colder Weather'
Zac Brown, Wyatt Durrette, Levi Lowrey, and Coy Bowles
'Dirt Road Anthem'
Brantley Gilbert and Colt Ford
'If I Die Young'
Kimberly Perry
'Mean'
Taylor Swift
'You and Tequila'
Matraca Berg and Deana Carter
Musical Event of the Year
'As She's Walking Away'
Zac Brown Band featuring Alan Jackson
'Coal Miner's Daughter'
Loretta Lynn, Sheryl Crow, and Miranda Lambert
'Don't You Wanna Stay'
Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson
'Old Alabama'
Brad Paisley featuring Alabama
'You and Tequila'
Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter
Music Video
(Award goes to artist and director)
'Honey Bee'
Blake Shelton
Directed by Trey Fanjoy
'If I Die Young'
The Band Perry
Directed by David McClister
'Mean'
Taylor Swift
Directed by Declan Whitebloom
'Old Alabama'
Brad Paisley featuring Alabama
Directed by Jim Shea
'You and Tequila'
Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter
Directed by Shaun Silva
Musician
Sam Bush - Mandolin
Jerry Douglas - Dobro
Paul Franklin - Steel Guitar
Dann Huff - Guitar
Mac McAnally - Guitar
Ladies, I discovered a fun, new clothing website, and I love their unusual selection of clothing and accessories. Based out of Brighton, the site started when the owner was looking for something special to wear for a social event, and couldn't find anything unique. She describes herself as independent, fun, fearless, and creative, and that really comes across as I browse through her site. If one or more of those words describe you as well, head over to Lace Affair!
Avocado Tree Baking Co. is a new venture of mine, and I am certain you've never had some of the things being created by our chef. On the "to die for" list: Rum Cake, Tres Leches Cupcakes, Mocha Cupcakes, Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes, and a Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting! Yum!
If you live in the Boston area please feel free to email us and place an order. Thanksgiving is just three weeks away and we're doing two seasonal cupcakes for the month of November:
The Vermonter-- our maple walnut cupcake made with real Vermont maple syrup and topped with walnuts $3.00
&
Sweet Potato Pie with Candied Pecans-- a.k.a the Thanksgiving special, our sweet potato cupcake with marshmallow frosting and topped with candied pecans $3.00
Avocado Tree Baking Co. is a boutique bakery with lots of heart; we use the finest ingredients in all of our baked goods. We look forward to bringing you cakes and cupcakes that you cannot and will not find or taste anywhere else. We look forward to serving you and although our Grand Opening is not until November 3rd, we hope you will place your orders now. Please email us at avocadotreebakingco@gmail.com for more information.
Menu:
CAKES
Choose a cake:
Chocolate-- please indicate if you would like us to add nuts to this cake $20.00
Yellow-- $20.00
Choose a frosting:
Chocolate Buttercream
Cream Cheese
Vanilla Buttercream
(color and additional flavors for your Buttercream frosting available upon request)
Bundt Cakes:
Angel-- Our angel cake is light and soft, dusted on top with confectioners’ sugar $10.00
Lemon-- Our lovely lemon bundt cake is moist and dense, dusted on top with confectioners’ sugar $10.00
Rum-- Our special rum cake, the recipe is such a secret that only we know it $15.00
Special Cakes:
Bislon-- An Italian teacake (round with a hole in the middle), so unusually delicious, we guarantee you’ve never had anything like it $20.00
Carrot-- Our moist carrot cake with some secret ingredients and our cream cheese frosting $21.00
Heart Shaped-- A vanilla sandwich cake with fresh cream and raspberries in the center, perfect for any special occasion or just because $20.00
Special Order Cakes:
Is this cake for a special occasion? Do you need something written on the cake? Please let us know. There is no additional cost for writing something on your cake. Do you need a theme cake? Theme cakes are special order and we are more than happy to hear your requests.
Please know that theme cakes do have additional costs and Avocado Tree Baking Co. reserves the right to refuse any special order.
CUPCAKES (n.b. prices below are per cupcake, please see specs. on ordering below)
Our 7 Core Cupcakes
The Bostonian-- Boston Cream Pie, our vanilla cupcake filled with vanilla cream and topped with chocolate ganache $2.50
The Dutchman-- Red Velvet, our Dutch cocoa cupcake topped with cream cheese frosting $2.50
The Evil One-- Devil’s Food, a chocolate cupcake topped with chocolate buttercream $2.50
The Latino-- Tres Leches, our cupcake based on the famous Latin dessert $3.00
Mocha-- Coffee lovers take note, our mocha cupcake comes packed with a shot of espresso and topped with mocha frosting $3.00
The Natural-- Vanilla cupcake with vanilla or chocolate buttercream $2.50
The Pick Me Up-- Tiramisu, our cupcake based on the famous Italian dessert $2.50
Our 2 Seasonal Cupcakes
Every month we will offer two seasonal cupcakes, please call or email us for information on them. We promise you will not be disappointed.
Our cupcakes aim to satisfy! ;-)
The way for us to assure that statement is to tell you that the early bird gets the worm.
Because we are a small private catering company just beginning, we can only make a maximum of 60 cupcakes in one day! We recommend placing your orders in advance.
Here are some specifics:
We require a minimum order of 4 cupcakes per flavor per person.
All orders of 24 (or 2 dozen) or more must be made five business days in advance due to the freshness and quality standards of our product.
The sooner you place your order the more likely we can guarantee your request.
Here is one of our special order cakes:
He really embodies the title of his new album, Future History!
I'm in love with the new Oval Paperweights from Felix Doolittle; these would be a perfect holiday gift for just about anyone. The $35 price is more than reasonable, especially considering that it's high quality. In fact, I almost guarantee that your only issue will be deciding which image most inspires you. I am currently deciding between Blue Bird, Jolly Tortoise, Mountain Lion, and Raven of Truth.
The CMA's! Country music's biggest night is live on Wednesday November 9th at 8pm on ABC with hosts Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley once again doing the honors. Check out the nominees, make your predictions, and maybe I will even share mine.
2011 CMA AWARDS NOMINEES
Entertainer of the Year
Jason Aldean
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Taylor Swift
Keith Urban
Female Vocalist of the Year
Sara Evans
Miranda Lambert
Martina McBride
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood
Male Vocalist of the Year
Jason Aldean
Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Keith Urban
New Artist
The Band Perry
Luke Bryan
Eric Church
Thompson Square
Chris Young
Vocal Group
Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Rascal Flatts
The Band Perry
Zac Brown Band
Vocal Duo
The Civil Wars
Montgomery Gentry
Steel Magnolia
Sugarland
Thompson Square
Album of the Year
(Award goes to artist and producer)
'All About Tonight'
Blake Shelton
Produced by Scott Hendricks
'My Kinda Party'
Jason Aldean
Produced by Michael Knox
'Speak Now'
Taylor Swift
Produced by Nathan Chapman and Taylor Swift
'This Is Country Music'
Brad Paisley
Produced by Frank Rogers
'You Get What You Give'
Zac Brown Band
Produced by Keith Stegall and Zac Brown
Single of the Year
(Award goes to artist and producer)
'A Little Bit Stronger'
Sara Evans
Produced by Tony Brown
'Colder Weather'
Zac Brown Band
Produced by Keith Stegall and Zac Brown
'Don't You Wanna Stay'
Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson
Produced by Michael Knox
'Honey Bee'
Blake Shelton
Produced by Scott Hendricks
'If I Die Young'
The Band Perry
Produced by Paul Worley
Song of the Year
(Award goes to songwriters)
'Colder Weather'
Zac Brown, Wyatt Durrette, Levi Lowrey, and Coy Bowles
'Dirt Road Anthem'
Brantley Gilbert and Colt Ford
'If I Die Young'
Kimberly Perry
'Mean'
Taylor Swift
'You and Tequila'
Matraca Berg and Deana Carter
Musical Event of the Year
'As She's Walking Away'
Zac Brown Band featuring Alan Jackson
'Coal Miner's Daughter'
Loretta Lynn, Sheryl Crow, and Miranda Lambert
'Don't You Wanna Stay'
Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson
'Old Alabama'
Brad Paisley featuring Alabama
'You and Tequila'
Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter
Music Video
(Award goes to artist and director)
'Honey Bee'
Blake Shelton
Directed by Trey Fanjoy
'If I Die Young'
The Band Perry
Directed by David McClister
'Mean'
Taylor Swift
Directed by Declan Whitebloom
'Old Alabama'
Brad Paisley featuring Alabama
Directed by Jim Shea
'You and Tequila'
Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter
Directed by Shaun Silva
Musician
Sam Bush - Mandolin
Jerry Douglas - Dobro
Paul Franklin - Steel Guitar
Dann Huff - Guitar
Mac McAnally - Guitar
Ladies, I discovered a fun, new clothing website, and I love their unusual selection of clothing and accessories. Based out of Brighton, the site started when the owner was looking for something special to wear for a social event, and couldn't find anything unique. She describes herself as independent, fun, fearless, and creative, and that really comes across as I browse through her site. If one or more of those words describe you as well, head over to Lace Affair!
Avocado Tree Baking Co. is a new venture of mine, and I am certain you've never had some of the things being created by our chef. On the "to die for" list: Rum Cake, Tres Leches Cupcakes, Mocha Cupcakes, Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes, and a Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting! Yum!
If you live in the Boston area please feel free to email us and place an order. Thanksgiving is just three weeks away and we're doing two seasonal cupcakes for the month of November:
The Vermonter-- our maple walnut cupcake made with real Vermont maple syrup and topped with walnuts $3.00
&
Sweet Potato Pie with Candied Pecans-- a.k.a the Thanksgiving special, our sweet potato cupcake with marshmallow frosting and topped with candied pecans $3.00
Avocado Tree Baking Co. is a boutique bakery with lots of heart; we use the finest ingredients in all of our baked goods. We look forward to bringing you cakes and cupcakes that you cannot and will not find or taste anywhere else. We look forward to serving you and although our Grand Opening is not until November 3rd, we hope you will place your orders now. Please email us at avocadotreebakingco@gmail.com for more information.
Menu:
CAKES
Choose a cake:
Chocolate-- please indicate if you would like us to add nuts to this cake $20.00
Yellow-- $20.00
Choose a frosting:
Chocolate Buttercream
Cream Cheese
Vanilla Buttercream
(color and additional flavors for your Buttercream frosting available upon request)
Bundt Cakes:
Angel-- Our angel cake is light and soft, dusted on top with confectioners’ sugar $10.00
Lemon-- Our lovely lemon bundt cake is moist and dense, dusted on top with confectioners’ sugar $10.00
Rum-- Our special rum cake, the recipe is such a secret that only we know it $15.00
Special Cakes:
Bislon-- An Italian teacake (round with a hole in the middle), so unusually delicious, we guarantee you’ve never had anything like it $20.00
Carrot-- Our moist carrot cake with some secret ingredients and our cream cheese frosting $21.00
Heart Shaped-- A vanilla sandwich cake with fresh cream and raspberries in the center, perfect for any special occasion or just because $20.00
Special Order Cakes:
Is this cake for a special occasion? Do you need something written on the cake? Please let us know. There is no additional cost for writing something on your cake. Do you need a theme cake? Theme cakes are special order and we are more than happy to hear your requests.
Please know that theme cakes do have additional costs and Avocado Tree Baking Co. reserves the right to refuse any special order.
CUPCAKES (n.b. prices below are per cupcake, please see specs. on ordering below)
Our 7 Core Cupcakes
The Bostonian-- Boston Cream Pie, our vanilla cupcake filled with vanilla cream and topped with chocolate ganache $2.50
The Dutchman-- Red Velvet, our Dutch cocoa cupcake topped with cream cheese frosting $2.50
The Evil One-- Devil’s Food, a chocolate cupcake topped with chocolate buttercream $2.50
The Latino-- Tres Leches, our cupcake based on the famous Latin dessert $3.00
Mocha-- Coffee lovers take note, our mocha cupcake comes packed with a shot of espresso and topped with mocha frosting $3.00
The Natural-- Vanilla cupcake with vanilla or chocolate buttercream $2.50
The Pick Me Up-- Tiramisu, our cupcake based on the famous Italian dessert $2.50
Our 2 Seasonal Cupcakes
Every month we will offer two seasonal cupcakes, please call or email us for information on them. We promise you will not be disappointed.
Our cupcakes aim to satisfy! ;-)
The way for us to assure that statement is to tell you that the early bird gets the worm.
Because we are a small private catering company just beginning, we can only make a maximum of 60 cupcakes in one day! We recommend placing your orders in advance.
Here are some specifics:
We require a minimum order of 4 cupcakes per flavor per person.
All orders of 24 (or 2 dozen) or more must be made five business days in advance due to the freshness and quality standards of our product.
The sooner you place your order the more likely we can guarantee your request.
Here is one of our special order cakes:
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