Showing posts with label Jennifer Lopez. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jennifer Lopez. Show all posts

Monday, January 15, 2024

Golden Globes Best Dressed List 2024

My best dressed list in absolutely no order.... 

They just all looked amazing!

Let's talk about Brie Larson and J Lo who ran into each other on the red carpet. Brie told J Lo that seeing her in Selena is what made her want to become an actor. They both could not have looked more beautiful. 


Jennifer looked like a rose garden in a Nicole + Felicia Couture look. The color was gorgeous on her and those lines and curves were everything. 






































Brie wore another pastel, lavender! Her Prada custom dress was simple but such a feminine shape. 






















She hasn't had many fashion missteps overall, Taylor Swift has owned the red carpet for a while but recently has come into her own with a more mature look. Taylor was absolutely dazzling in custom Gucci. I just had to get you a front and back view. 








































Timothee Chalamet was the best dressed guy from a contemporary perspective, his Celine Homme non traditional tux was perfection. 





















Forever my friend Jennifer Aniston was a beauty in black. If I could choose any dress to wear for myself, it would be this one, so relatable and versatile yet chock full of cool details. Her dress was Dolce & Gabbana with Jimmy Choo shoes. 





















Elizabeth Debicki played Princess Diana on The Crown; she channeled goddess vibes in this Christian Dior gown. I loved everything about her look from head to toe. 






















And last but not least, Emma Stone was so pretty in Louis Vuitton! I loved all the details in her floral dress from the embroidery to the color palette to the fit. She was a winner in more ways than one. 























Monday, January 27, 2020

In memoriam: Kobe Bryant— my thoughts

These past couple of days have been a whirlwind of sorts. The unexpected deaths of Kobe Bryant, his 13 year old daughter Gianna, some friends, and a helicopter pilot have been emotionally paralyzing. I have read so many tributes and Instagram posts, touching and emotional words from those who knew Kobe or admired him. It made me feel like somehow I knew him too. I think actor James Van Der Beek had a great perspective on it when he said, “when tragedy befalls a legend... it effects us. And we post about it. Not just because of their achievements, great though they may have been, or because they were more important than the millions who also may have suffered that day, but because our shared grief makes us human”. We empathize with one another, and for those moments when we’re thinking about that person, we all have something in common. We have a shared love, a shared appreciation, a shared respect.

I will admit, early in Kobe’s basketball career, I struggled with what I thought of him. To me, with fame comes great responsibility. Being a basketball player, so many young people idolized Kobe, and  I wondered if he was a good example for them. I was hard on him, unrelenting at times. He had that sexual assault charge in 2003, one that was later dropped. He admits it almost destroyed his marriage to Vanessa. The truth is, I don’t know what happened, none of us do. I’d like to think that he grew from whatever happened. I’d like to think that God and the universe was trying to tell him something when he blessed Kobe with four beautiful daughters. On the flip side, I’d like to think that those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones. We have all made mistakes. We have all done things we would rather forget. We are all inherently flawed. I’ve always made a point of saying that as hard as I am on others, I’m even harder on myself, probably tenfold.

I’ll tell you my true feelings about Kobe Bryant. For the time he played for the Lakers, he made me a fan. Growing up in Boston, perhaps the greatest sports city in the country, I have obviously always been a Celtics fan first, but Kobe, Kobe made me respect and appreciate one of our greatest rivals. Oh I routed for the Lakers many times. There was something special about Kobe as a basketball player and as a person. You could tell by the way he played ball that he had unrelenting drive. There was this fire in him, it made him the best of competitors. And these qualities translated to his life. It was clear.

What else is true about Kobe? As great as he was, his talent limitless it seemed; he was humble. He never forgot where he started or where he came from. He was genuine and generous with his time. So many have talked about how he made them feel special in the moments that they spent together. He did not have “passing moments” with people, but rather, he spent time getting to know them and chatting with them. Kobe loved his family. What comes across through photograph after photograph is the love he had for them. The reason he traveled so much via helicopter was to be able to get more time with his family.

Perhaps though what was most inspiring and most relatable about Kobe is that he was human, and he fully admitted it. A couple years ago Kobe released the documentary “Dear Basketball”. The running time was five minutes and it won an Oscar for Best Animated Short Film, it was the first Oscar for an athlete. Fitting that it was Kobe. Was there anything he couldn’t do? We need not go through stats, But we will, 5 time NBA champion, 2 time finals MVP, 1 time league MVP, 2 time Olympic gold medalist, so many All Star selections I can’t count, it was over 15; the man scored 60 points in his last game. “Dear Basketball” is Kobe’s story, his goodbye letter to basketball, and it’s beautiful.




Hearing the news yesterday, I couldn’t believe it. I thought someone was playing a cruel trick. After seeing it on my Instagram feed, I had to turn on the news just to be sure. Immediately after finding out it was true, I cried. I cried because someone who was young and had so much to live for, so much life left, lost their life needlessly. I prayed so hard that it wasn’t true, that it was just a terrible dream. I prayed that no one else perished. When unconfirmed reports came through that children were on board, I prayed to God, please no! When all was said and done, nine people lost their lives yesterday, including three children. Dozens of families were changed forever in a matter of moments yesterday, countless friends and fans. I think Jennifer Lopez put it best when she said, “we are all feeling sadness from this loss, but all I can think of is that it is a grain of sand compared to what Vanessa must be going through right now”.

Kobe was human. Despite the fact that he was a talented, disciplined athlete who had a work ethic like no other, he had a lot of self doubt. If someone like Kobe could have self doubt, then it’s possible for me, and that I can still potentially achieve greatness and that it’s up to me—- it makes me believe anything is possible. He talked a lot about the “Mamba mentality”, how it made him push forward at his weakest moments and access the champion within himself. He inspired countless people. He inspired me. His sense of humanity is his legacy, his will not be forgotten.

“I have self doubt. I have insecurity. I have fear of failure. I have nights when I show up at the arena and I’m like, ‘my back hurts, my feet hurt, my knees hurt. I don’t have it. I just want to chill.’ We all have self doubt. You don’t deny it, but you also don’t capitulate it. You embrace it”. — Kobe Bryant

“Those times when you get up early, and you work hard; those times when you stay up late and you work hard; those times when you don’t feel like working— you’re too tired, you don’t want to push yourself, but you do it anyway. That is actually the dream. That’s the dream. It’s not the destination, it’s the journey. And if you guys can understand that, what you’ll see happen is that you won’t accomplish your dreams, your dreams won’t come true, something greater will”. — Kobe to his daughters the night he retired from the NBA

I would ask you to please click this link and see how the Grammys paid tribute to Kobe: https://www.essence.com/awards-events/red-carpet/grammys/alicia-keys-boyz-ii-men-grammys-kobe-bryant/

Leave your thoughts and love below. Life is too short, tell your loved ones you love them. Hold them close, don’t take life for granted.





Sunday, January 26, 2020

Best Dressed at the 2020 SAG Awards: All My Picks

I don't really watch the SAG Awards but I do love watching the Red Carpet. This year was no exception. This was tougher than the Golden Globes in terms of picking best dressed because the ladies stepped it up.

Jane Seymour, at 68, looked like she has been sipping from the fountain of youth. She was absolutely dazzling in a silver sequin gown that hugged her curves beautifully. Seymour credits being in shape with intermittent fasting and giving up alcohol. Her dress, designed by SHO, was simple and complimented her perfectly.


Jen Aniston wore black to the Golden Globes and white to the SAG Awards where she won for her new series The Morning Show. Her vintage style gown was Christian Dior circa 1999. The gown was simple yet she was stunning. 



Cynthia Erivo has quickly turned into a red carpet darling. She does no wrong in terms of her style 
choices. The London actress was nominated for her performance in Harriett and wore a bright color blocked gown by Schiaparelli. The dress is so gorgeous and clearly the centerpiece so she only needed simple jewelry which she did perfectly. 


Jennifer Lopez is a red carpet fave of mine personally. She is always stunning, and the SAG Awards were no exception. J. Lo was a vision in a black Valentino gown that was anything but basic. It had a bow in the back, similar detail to her Golden Globes gown, but I loved it more because this was more feminine and delicate to me. This was quite honestly my favorite look of the night. 


My favorite thing that I read about Charlize Theron's look was-- look at Charlize, look at Charlize's abs (insert heart eyes emojis). She said she didn't have time to touch up her roots so she wore Tiffany diamonds in her hair. Her two piece outfit was Givenchy Haute Couture-- the silver crop top and black maxi skirt were such a daring choice. 




Oh wow, Scarlett Johansson is absolutely angelic in Armani Prive. Her custom gown featured teal blue silk with a plunging neckline and that red lip was the perfect touch. She looked extra lovely on the arm of her fiance. 



A best dressed list is never complete without Nicole Kidman. She always manages to look like the most beautiful princess in all the land. Nicole wore a sapphire blue Michael Kors gown with matching earrings. Her signature locks completed the look by giving it a vintage vibe. 


Who were your favorites? Leave me some comments below. 





Sunday, March 3, 2019

The Best Dressed @ The Oscars 2019 Edition

Regina King not only won Best Supporting Actress, but she looked unbelievable in a white Oscar de la Renta gown with a slit up the leg. The jewelry was simple and she looked angelic.



Brie Larson, Oscar winner in 2016 for Best Actress in Room and upcoming star of Captain Marvel was statuesque in high necked silver Celine gown with a slit. 



Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez have become one of the couples to watch at award shows. At the Oscar's J. Lo looked stunning in a long sleeved, high necked, silver Tom Ford dress with a slit. Metallics were popular at the Award's show this year. J. Lo always makes great fashion choices and this year was no exception. 



It was a big night for Lady Gaga who was up for Best Actress and Best Song, the latter of which she won. I have really enjoyed watching her style evolve over the past few years. She definitely turned heads at this year's Oscar Show opting for a solid black Alexander McQueen gown complete with long gloves and Tiffany jewels. She really looked like a princess. 



Amy Adams' Oscar dress was a gorgeous pastel and gold Versace bustier gown. The dress was simple and sexy without being overt. She never fails to make strong fashion choices for herself, she always looks well put together. Amy accessorized with Cartier jewels.










R

Thursday, March 10, 2016

The Top Eight Turn to Six on American Idol Season 15

Duets:

LaPorsha Renae and Trent Harmon sang See You Again by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth

Avalon Young and Sonika Vaid sang Rise Up by Andra Day

Dalton Rapattoni and MacKenzie Bourg sang I Want it That Way by The Backstreet Boys

Lee Jean and Tristan McIntosh sang I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing by Aerosmith

Best duet goes to LaPorsha and Trent; they were meant to sing together. <3 nbsp="" p="">
Solos:

LaPorsha Renae sang Come Together by The Beatles-- Jenn said you give us full diva every time you get up there. Harry said I never understood what those lyrics meant, but for some reason, I knew what you were singing about. Keith said any song is a great song for you. LaPorsha projects a level of coolness when she sings, but the best thing by far besides her tremendous is the way in which she controls it. She could win this entire thing.

MacKenzie Bourg sang You Are So Beautiful by Joe Cocker-- Harry said you couldn't have picked a better song, I felt you were really connected to it. Keith said it speaks volumes to me that you picked that song, it means you know who you are. You made that song sound brand new. Jenn loves MacKenzie's mix of old and new. I agree with all the judges' comments-- the song was really catered to his sound and style. I loved it.

Trent Harmon sang Stand by Me by Ben E. King-- Jenn thinks Trent is bad-ass, and thought it was awesome. Harry said he had fun with the melody. This guy continues to majorly impress me. I don't think has has made one false move in this competition. If anyone could be a lock for the finale, it would be him, he just has such a natural ability.

Tristan McIntosh sang A Broken Wing by Martina McBride-- Jenn said you have a perfectly suited country voice, and you did a really good job with that song. Harry agreed with Jenn. Keith said your voice is tailor made for that song. I loved the risk she took with the notes, and it worked because she chose a song that worked so well for her voice that I didn't care that she missed a high note.

Dalton Rapattoni sang Eleanor Rigby by The Beatles-- Keith liked the dark under-current he brought out in that song. Jenn loved the theatrics of his performance, and she loved that he ended the song on a big note. I think the performances of Dalton's that I like the most are the ones where he flips a song and makes it totally creative and his own.

Avalon Young sang P.Y.T. by Michael Jackson-- Keith said your voice and coolness boxes are checked. Jenn doesn't understand why she is in the bottom three again. She wants her to try going out of her comfort zone next week if she is around. Harry thinks her voice is incredible. He thinks maybe she needs to have a little more urgency-- there's a difference between laid back and captivating. Her performance quality is so amazing, it's like she's been on a stage forever. I love how every time she starts singing she is her comfort zone.

Lee Jean sang Let It Be by The Beatles-- Jenn liked this performance for him, but thinks that it may not be enough, she thinks it was a tiny bit shaky. Harry said very emotional, very smart, you committed to the lyrics, and you were sharp. Pitch was a bit of an issue this time. Keith said trying to reign the nerves in is tough, but your tone is gorgeous.It's nice to see this different side of Lee. It's like there's this intuitive side to him that I have never seen before, very thoughtful as he sings.

Sonika Vaid sang I Have Nothing by Whitney Houston-- Harry thinks of this song as a high risk, high reward song, and he loved it. Keith said if you're here next week, continue to release. Jenn said that's my favorite Whitney song, but I think you did a good job. I thought her voice was great, I think Sonika can sometimes lack emotional connection.

Wow, I would have given the save to Avalon....

Moving on..... bottom two next week is Dalton and Sonika. The four remaining contestants are untouchable.... LaPorsha, MacKenzie, Trent, and Tristan

Monday, January 11, 2016

Golden Globes Best Dressed List 2016

Kate Winslet-- Not only did Kate take home a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress for Steve Jobs, but she looked regal in her custom made blue Ralph Lauren gown. It really fit her figure well, she is a full figured woman and this just really showed how beautiful her figure is. And just to make all of you swoon, Leo said she is literally his favorite actress ever.


Amy Adams-- I absolutely loved he sequin detail on Amy's red-orange Versace gown. It make it look like she was wearing a dressy belt, her hair and makeup were simple and of course her flowing hair set the dress off perfectly. 


Taraji P. Henson-- Her character Cookie on Empire is not angel but Taragi looked white hot in white, This dress had very simple lines, a beautiful train and cape; I also loved her art deco clutch, and once again simple hair style, but it really framed her face beautifully. And what topped off her night? Winning the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama Series for Empire. 


Jada Pinkett Smith-- Jada looked effortlessly beautiful in a flowy emerald green Versace gown. This dress definitely says "goddess" and I love the simple hairdo and the sparkly band around her waist that pulls the dress together so well. Her shoes finish the look so perfectly so that it's a head to toe look. 


  
Jennifer Lopez-- Jenn was an absolute stunner in this bold chartreuse Giambattista Vali gown. All those out there who like to hate on J. Lo when she wears next to nothing to look sexy can now eat your words. She is covered up here for the most part and still looks sexy and classy at the same time. I love the cape, the ruching through the waist, and the fun side slit. Jenn proves that age is truly nothing but a number. 


Olivia Wilde-- A true beauty, Olivia rocked the red carpet in a custom maroon colored Michael Kors gown. The low cut gown was sparkling from top to bottom and her necklace complimented the gown perfectly along with her low key but styled hair. 


Jenna Dewan Tatum-- Many critics called Jenna one of the best dressed of the night hands down and it wasn't because Channing Tatum was on her arm, but that's a good guess. Jenna's midnight blue colored Zuhair Murad gown left me starry eyed. Her dress literally resembled a star filled sky at night. I really don't even care that I can't see her shoes. 


Melissa Benoist-- Jenna's co-star on Supergirl and the title character herself, Melissa looked sweet and surprisingly sexy in a pale pink Monique Lhuillier gown. I am not typically a fan of prints at all but this print is so light and subtle that I think it really suits Melissa's personality and sweet smile. I think she and her husband Blake Jenner were one of the loveliest couples at the show last night. 


Lady Gaga-- She almost didn't make my list, but there was something about this dress that was very Marilyn Monroe, very old Hollywood, and Gaga looked "normal beautiful" and put together with her fiance Taylor Kinney on her arm. Her black velvet custom Versace gown was tight in all the right places and seemed appropriate to go along with her role as the Countess on American Horror Story: Hotel. Even better was when Gaga took to the stage in her look as she won Best Actress on a limited Series so that everyone could see how flawless she looked. 



Last but not least, to round out this list of nine ladies (in no order), the men..... 


Leo looks hell-a handsome and he picked up Best Actor for The Revenant......


Liev Schrieber always looks so sharp, no matter what......


One actor representing the future of Hollywood, Michel B. Jordan was amazing in Creed (but didn't get nominated!), but he was there to support Sylvester Stallone when he won. 


Bryshere Gray went for the handsome, polished, young man look and guess what?! It worked. 






Tuesday, May 12, 2015

American Idol Season 14: Wow, We're Down to Two

Jax is eliminated at the top of the competition leaving Clark Beckham and Nick Fradiani to compete for the title.

Reprise:

Clark sang Georgia on My Mind by Ray Charles-- Keith said southern, soulful, drenched in syrup. Jenn said you always had the talent, and tonight, you reminded us why you are here. Harry admires his drive and that he wants to stretch and push musically. It was a great way to start the show, I remembered why I liked Clark so much from the beginning with that performance. It was just so pure and good.

Nick sang Bright Lights by Matchbox 20--  That is my favorite Nick Fradiani performance. Amazing! I think it was even better than the first time he sang it. It was just so comfortable and confident. Jenn said he is a true American Idol, the voice, the look, the presence. We've seen you grow into that, that gets you to the next level. Harry said this is the perfect opportunity for you to vote. Keith said, it's about more than having a good voice, and being a good performer, it's also about saying can I relate to you? I can relate to you Nick.

Simon Fuller's Pick:

Clark sang Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone by Bill Withers-- Harry said that it was an inward soulful performance and the difference between him and Nick is that Nick is an outward performer. Jenn said who is she, who are you singing to right now Clark? This was also a strong performance for Clark. Great vocal, and I loved that he didn't copycat the song, he did his own interpretation.

Nick sang I Won't Give Up by Jason Mraz-- Keith said your heart is so good Nick, beautiful. That was a great song choice. Jenn said perfect song, I loved the way you sounded on that. Harry said you're strongest thing is how you lay it all out there on an emotional level. I agree with Harry, that performance just had so much heart. The phrasing was tough and he nailed it, it was awesome!

Coronation Song:

Clark sang Champion-- Keith liked how inspiring the song is. Clark said it felt great to be singing his own song. Harry felt that he still has to get used to the song because it is a new song for him, but he said Nick will have the same disadvantage.

Nick sang Beautiful Life-- Harry said I enjoyed it, it really sounded like that song was tailor written for you. Jenn said it felt amazing, and you were in the moment performing. Keith said it was a bull's eye and people are going to go out and buy that record.

Who will win? I am leaning towards Nick but this is anyone's game. ;-) Until tomorrow.

Sunday, May 10, 2015

American Idol Season 14: Two Week Recap, Did the Right One Go Home?

Two Weeks Ago:

Clark Beckham performed Living for the City by Stevie Wonder and Your Man by Josh Turner-- Clark had a totally off week, I didn't care for either one of these performances, and to be honest, I thought he was headed home after Tyanna Jones was eliminated after the first round of performances. The only good part of the first performance was when he ran over to play the piano, and then, everything after, the piano seemed to give him confidence. Your Man was just a bad song choice, no one but Scotty McCreery should sing that.

Jax sang Empire State of Mind by Alicia Keys and Human by Christina Peri-- I thought that these two performances were also misses. When Jax sang the first song, I felt like she had no connection to that song, you must be able to relate to that song and have some sort of love for NYC, or if you don't, pretend you're singing about your own hometown. For the second song, once again, I felt like it was a bad song choice, the song was too gentle and quiet for her. It didn't speak to me and clearly it didn't speak to Jax. She was my second choice to go home after Clark upon home town visits being completed.

Nick Fradiani sang Bright Lights by Matchbox 20 and What Hurts the Most by Rascal Flatts-- Nick peaked at the right time, and had the time of his life on this night of performances. He had the strongest night, and was the only shoe in to move forward in the competition to the final three. I've always thought there were vocal similarities between Rob Thomas and Nick and tonight we heard that. It was the perfect song for him, and he connected with the song in a great way. He seems to grow more and more comfortable on the stage every time he performs. I feel like he was the only person on the show that had two solid performances...........

.............. I also have to hand it to Rayvon Owen, he never gave up and fought every single week for every single performance. He gave, arguably, some of the best and strongest performances of the entire season. The young man deserves a record deal.

Rayvon Owen sang Need You Now by Lady Antebellum and Believe by Justin Bieber-- His first performance was overly dramatic, and while I appreciated him making it his own, I feel like the song lacked emotional connection. I loved his second performance; it had a lot of heart, and it was cool for Rayvon to take a song in a completely different yet successful direction, perhaps more-so than the original version.

Last Week:

3 rounds, 4 artists....

Round 1:

Scott's picks:

Rayvon Owen sang Want to Want Me by Jason Derulo
Clark Beckham sang Beautiful Day by U2
Nick Fradiani sang Because the Night by Bruce Springsteen
Jax sang My Generation by The Who

Performances in order from strongest to weakest-- Nick, Jax and Rayvon (tie), Clark

Although the judges gave this round to Jax, I felt as though her performance was a little bit too over the top. Nick's performance was stronger, it had more credibility, and it was a more comfortable performance. I liked Rayvon's performance, but there were some pitch issues. Beautiful Day was the wrong song choice for Clark. Was Scott trying to get back at him for being so stubborn?

Round 2:

Hometown Dedications:

Nick Fradiani sang Back Home by Andy Grammer
Clark Beckham sang Sitting on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding
Rayvon Owen sang As by Stevie Wonder
Jax sang My Immortal by Evanescence

Performances in order from strongest to weakest-- Rayvon, Jax, Nick and Clark

In theory, Jax should have had a strong performance but My Immortal didn't have enough dynamics to blow me away. Rayvon wins this round with his thoughtful and inspiring performance of "As". It is clear that Rayvon connected with that song. Nick's song choice was too obscure. I would have liked to hear him sing Home by Daughtry. Clark's song choice was too sleepy.

Round 3:

Judges Picks:

Clark Beckham sang Earned It by the Wknd
Rayvon Owen sang You Are So Beautiful by Joe Cocker
Jax sang Misery Business by Paramore
Nick Fradiani sang I'll Be by Edwin McCain

Performances in order from strongest to weakest-- Clark and Nick, Rayvon, Jax

Clark is no Wknd for sure, but his original interpretation of that song was strong. Equally Nick Fradiani continued to stay ahead of his competitors with his performance of I'll Be.

With Rayvon being sent home, Nick Fradiani is my favorite to win this thing. It's his competition to lose at this point.






Wednesday, April 22, 2015

The Top 6 on American Idol Season 14 Become 5!

Jax sang Are You Gonna Be My Girl by Jet-- Keith said that's how you open a show, and I loved it as you got towards the end. Jenn liked how the performance was like total abandon. Harry said he has a sense of what she would be like in concert, and he thought her performance was strong. I enjoyed this Jax performance, and I have been hard on her throughout the competition cause I feel like I want to hear her the way she was when I first heard her. She is finally coming back to that, and I am seeing that Jax that I thought was fun, carefree, and had this amazing rock voice.

Nick Fradiani sang Harder to Breathe by Maroon 5-- Jenn said he gets stronger every time he performs, and she thought it was the perfect song for him. Harry said that was scary for the other people in the competition. Keith said vocally you're finding your lane, he told him to find his center more in terms of the performance. I agree with the judges, this was an amazing performance and Nick keeps getting better every week. The song definitely suited him vocally, he should be rocking out like this every week.

Clark Beckham sang Yesterday by The Beatles-- Harry said I liked that you didn't use high notes gratuitously; it was terrific. Keith said it was such an interesting choice, because it's an old song, but you make it fresh and current. Jenn said you tapped into the emotion of the song. I liked this performance; however, I felt like there were places where Clark was having pitch issues.

Tyanna Jones sang Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus-- Keith said it was good to see the fun side of you. Jenn said it was the most comfortable she has ever seen her. I actually liked her singing this, it was a totally different direction for her and it paid off.

Quentin Alexander sang Light My Fire by The Doors-- Jenn said she wants more from him vocally, but she believes he is a very centered performer. Harry liked the vocal along with the band, he felt the arrangement was cool. Keith thinks he is so original. I actually am sad that Quentin and Rayvon are in this position because I genuinely love both of them. This was a strong, clear vocal, loved it.

Rayvon Owen sang I'm Not the Only One by Sam Smith--  Harry thought he did a great job and felt he knocked that performance out of the park. Keith said if you were the first one to sing that, it would have been a hit. Jenn said what if you fight your way back to the top. I absolutely loved this performance, it was so gentle, yet so strong. The vocal was just off the charts, and I hope the judges are right.

Second Performances--

Nick Fradiani sang Maggie May by Rod Stewart-- Keith felt like it was a good song for him. Jenn also thought it was a good song choice. Harry said I could see you playing a two or three hour show on the road. I like the humility that Nick possesses, I liked the way he got into the performance.

Tyanna Jones sang Heaven by Bryan Adams-- Jenn said she is elegant and mature despite her age, not her fave performance, but necessary to see. Harry asked what she would like to record on her album. Tyanna answered that she is a mix of everything.

Clark Beckham sang Boyfriend by Justin Bieber-- Harry said it was not the right song for you to do that on. Harry said you're a melody singer. Jenn didn't think it created a moment.

Jax sang White Flag by Dido-- Keith said you held my attention for the entire song. Jenn thought it was a beautiful performance. Harry called it phenomenal and a great song choice.

Quentin Alexander sang Shake it Out by Florence and the Machine-- Jenn said you're riveting to watch. Harry asked if Quentin would let producers auto tune him, and he said no because he wants people to hear the raw product.

Rayvon Owen sang Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac-- Jenn thought it was a really good performance and she said he fights every single time. Harry said you just had to get that big ole high note in there, didn't you.

Rayvon won the save over Quentin for the fourth time. Tyanna could be in some trouble next week.

Monday, April 20, 2015

The Top Seven Sing American Classics on American Idol Season 14

The Top 7 Idols sang American Classics, and each contestant was up twice. I'm going to  break down which was the better of each performance.
As far as the results go, I have to say that at this point, I understand why Joey Cook went home. She is a wonderful talent; however, she did not perform well in the previous week.

Tyanna Jones sang Why Do Fools Fall in Love by Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers-- This lacked soul, she was not connected to the song at all, and it lacked that tempo that the song needs. Harry asked her if she has every watched Frankie Lymon's version, and she said no. He suggested she do so and note his groove. ......Score: 6 out of 10

I liked her second performance better, it was Proud Mary by Tina Turner, the song suited her vocals.
Score 8 out of 10-- Total 14 out of 20


Clark Beckham sang Superstition by Stevie Wonder-- I feel like what's happening with Clark is that we're hearing the same types of performances over and over again, and I personally am getting a little bored. The problem was this performance is that it got real messy. Score: 6 out of 10

I liked is second performance better also, Moon River, it was classic and it may have revealed weaknesses but at the same time, it was so neccessary for us to see someone human sing this song. Score: 8 out of 10-- Total 14 out of 20

Jax sang Piece of My Heart by Janis Joplin-- I preferred this to her second performance. I really did not love either, but I felt like Piece of My Heart is more who she is than Beat It by Michael Jackson. To me, Jax reminds me of Jena Irene from last season, but I found Jena more original and more talented. For some reason, Jax seems like she is pushing hard on the vocal and it shouldn't sound like that. It also sounds like she is screaming at times, and that's something I am never a fan of. The judges overall seemed happy with her performance, even though my feeling is she could be in some trouble next week. Score: 7 out of 10 and 6 out of 10-- Total 13 out of 10

Nick Fradiani sang American Girl by Tom Petty-- I also liked this better than Nick's second performance, however, I genuinely enjoyed both performances. This may not have been very different from Tom Petty's performance, but it fit him like a glove. This was perfectly in his pocket, and he left everything out there. He sounded good, looked good, and it seemed like he had a good time with it. Jenn said he has a radio ready voice, and has grown a lot on the show. Score: 9 out of 10

For his second performance he sang Only the Good Die Young by Billy Joel--  The arrangement on this really worked to Nick's advantage. Once again, he was in that comfy pocket of his voice and it sounded great. Someone reviewed Nick's performance and said he sounds like a different person every week and I disagree with that. I think Nick has a voice that I do hear originality in, and I agree with Jenn in that his voice is radio ready. Score: 8 out of 10-- Total 17 out of 20

Quentin Alexander sang Are You Gonna Go My Way by Lenny Kravitz-- I loved the idea of Quentin doing this song, it's totally in his wheelhouse, and I see his as an artist like a Lenny Kravitz. The problem is, I wanted more from this performance, I wanted more passion, and more rocker instinct and mentality. Score: 6 out of 10

Quentin's second performance was The Sound of Silence by Simon & Garfunkle-- there were some beautiful moments in this, but it didn't quite come together in the way that it should have. I feel like he was so distracted by Joey and Rayvon being the bottom two that he lost focus on his own performances. He could be in some trouble this week. Score: 6 out of 10 Total-- 12 out of 20

Bottom 2: Joey Cook and Rayvon Owen
Joey sang My Funny Valentine and Somebody to Love by Jefferson Airplane-- The first performance was stronger. Unfortunately, it seemed that over the weeks, Joey lost confidence in herself, she lost that magic and sparkly in her eyes that made her so very special. Her first performance was strong and understated but being in the bottom got the best of her on her second performance.

Rayvon sang Long Train Runnin' by The Doobie Brothers and Always on My Mind by Willie Nelson-- Rayvon arguable turned in the two strongest performances of his entire Idol journey. His first performance was soulful, on point, and in terms of performance quality, he whooped everyone's ass. Jenn felt he stepped it up and he did. Score: 8 out of 10

His performance of Always on My Mind was beautiful. I felt like Rayvon connected to the song and made it his own. Jenn said she had the goosies and Harry called Rayvon essentially a ballad singer. If this all doesn't keep Rayvon out of the bottom, I don't know what will. Score: 9 out of 10 Total-- 17 out of 20

Rayvon wins the vote by 52%!

Who will be in trouble this week? Quentin and Jax, maybe Tyanna

Monday, April 13, 2015

American Idol Season 14: The Top 8 Sing Pop!

Qaasim Middleton lost to Rayvon Owen on the Fan Save....... check out what transpired.

Jax sang Poker Face by Lady Gaga-- Didn't like the arrangement at all. Everything that makes that song special was gone in this version, her enunciation was weird, like pa pa pa poker face pa pa poker face. It was strange indeed. Jenn said she didn't relate to that at all, she went so far left that no one got it. Harry said she did not inhabit the song emotionally. You can't just change the arrangement, you need to tap into the emotional space.
Score: 6 out of 10

Nick Fradiani sang Teenage Dream by Katy Perry-- This song really suited Nick, and the way he arranged it, it totally felt like him. Nick does have an intensity, but I think Keith is right in that the spirit of the song matched him. Jenn said he changed it and made it his own in the best way, I could hear it on the radio today. Harry said there were things I did and didn't like. I liked the energy, I would have liked something with grittier lyrics for you. Keith said I thought it had killer lyrics for you. I like the spirit of that song.
Score: 9 out of 10

Quentin Alexander sang Latch by Disclosure featuring Sam Smith-- Awesome, this was one of my favorite Quentin performances, there was a sexy vibe to it. He took a risk and it paid off for him. Harry said you look great tonight, I love this song, I think you're a good rhythmic singer, and I was really digging this. There were some pitch issues, but good song for you. Keith said great song choice, the laid-back phrasing was perfect for you. Jenn said you're such an artist, I sensed that you were in your head a little bit, I loved it, loved that song, great choice for you.
Score: 9 out of 10

Joey Cook sang Wrecking Ball by Miley Cyrus-- I feel like there are some songs you don't change, and this is one of them. It was too weird all the way around. The song felt especially strange in the chorus. Keith felt she held back on the chorus. Jenn liked the verses, not the chorus.
Score: 7 out of 10

Clark Beckham sang Make it Rain by Ed Sheeran-- I think that because this song has such a heavy R&B, blues vibe it really suited Clark and what he does best. Love that he is playing the guitar. I felt like the last verse/ chorus got a little out of control, I almost thought his voice was going to crack. Jenn said she could see him at the finale, and called his vocal amazing and effortless. Harry said that was very good, but what would have made it better is if he would have slowed it down.
Score: 9 out of 10

Tyanna Jones sang Stay by Rihanna-- I believe Tyanna definitely related to the song, but there's something special about when Rihanna sings it and that x factor was missing in this performance. Harry was extremely touched. Jenn felt like Tyanna dug deep.
Score: 8 out of 10

Rayvon Owen sang Set Fire to the Rain by Adele-- Yuck, the vocals were a sloppy mess. It was not the right choice of song for him. Jenn felt he dug, but didn't think it was the right song for him. Harry asked Rayvon what encompasses him and he said he tries to inspire people and give all glory to God.
Score: 6 out of 10

Qaasim Middleton sang Hey Ya by Outkast-- I actually think this time around Qaasim deserved to stay and had the stronger performance. Jenn said you're a fun performer, you own that stage. Harry said American Idol is lucky to have you, I love your groove and how you're always in the pocket. Keith said you know how to make the most of what you have, playing to your strengths and being entertaining. Jenn said Qaasim has a great voice.
Score: 8 out of 10


This week...... Jax, Rayvon, or Joey are my bottom three.

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Golden Globes Glamour! 2015 Styles

Head turners galore at this year's Golden Globes but very few stood out --- here are my picks for the top ten best dressed in no order.

Amy Adams looked simply lovely in a pastel blue Versace gown. I love that it is tailored at the waist and with one shoulder, and the color of the dress compliments her hair color.


Camila Alves looked pretty in a blush colored Monique Lhuillier dress with a ruffled top. I don't think everyone can pull off a dress shaped like this. It would look like a garbage bag or potato sack on most people, but on Camila it's a dream.

  L
Gina Rodriguez was a winner in more ways than one, she won Best Actress in a Comedy Series for Jane the Virgin, and she was stunning in a black Badgley Miska gown. Black is a classic and it's always in still but the extra detail on the bottom of the gown is what set it apart from say, the black dress Jennifer Aniston wore.


Jenna Dewan Tatum and Naomi Watts were both wearing the "it" Spring/ Summer '15 color. I love that they took a risk not wearing something basic it really paid off for both of them. Jenna was wearing an electric yellow Carolina Herrera gown. It has a cascading ruffled top and a short train, it's the dress that's detailed yet simple, and she pulls off that color with her dark hair and eyes.


Jennifer Lopez looks good always and Golden Globes night was no exception. She never tries too hard, and she wears the appropriate clothes for the appropriate event. She is also someone who proves that you don't have to show tons of skin to look good and age is nothing but a number. This woman is ageless, in fact, she looks as good as she ever did. She's wearing an art deco Zuhair Murad dress, Jennifer admitted that the dress was heavy with all the beading, but it looks great on her.


Jessica Chastain was wearing another fashion trend of the night, metallics, and that was a trend we saw on several Golden Globes attendees. Jessica wore a custom bronze metallic Atelier Versace gown. This does look like it was made for her; the color looks absolutely gorgeous with her skin tone and hair color.


Kate Beckinsale is one of those ladies who never doesn't look good. She's so well put together, and this time around she was one of the best dressed in a grey-beige Elie Saab gown. I love how the top is beaded and fitted, and the neckline is just the right amount of sexy.



Katie Holmes cleans up nice. She doesn't make many appearances, but when she does, she looks good. Ever the woman who goes for a clean, simple look, Katie's hair is in a tight ponytail, she's wearing minimal jewelry and her gown is a gorgeous shade of purple. Her strapless Marchesa gown drapes perfectly and evokes royalty.



Naomi Watts is wearing a chartreuse Gucci strapless gown. I initially thought only brunettes could pull off this color, but Naomi wears it beautifully, and her necklace compliments the neckline of the dress. Naomi is another woman who rarely shows up to an event not looking good. The belt breaks up the gown well and the red lipstick gives it even more pop.



Reese Witherspoon went with the metallic fashion trend and she looks stunning. Her custom metallic strapless beaded dress by one of my personal favorite designers, Calvin Klein makes me jealous; oh to have a dress like this! I love that Reese did not add a necklace to it because I think it would have spoiled that gorgeous neckline. Her hair and eyes set the dress off perfectly, and she is just glowing. She might be my favorite of this event.


Tuesday, May 20, 2014

American Idol Season 13: The Finale is Here, Who will take home the title?

The Finale:

Simon Fuller's Choice:

Jena Irene sang The Dog Days Are Over by Florence and the Machine-- Keith and Jenn commented on the high energy of the performance. Harry said he hopes it's a song that she puts on her album. It was a good song choice, really showed Jena's vocal range.

Caleb Johnson sang Dream On by Aerosmith-- Jenn said that's what you gotta do, this is the finale. She told him that he seized the moment. Harry said it was phenomenal, really great job. Keith thought the way he arced the whole performance was exceptional. Another amazing song choice, wow, literally brought tears to my eyes cause I didn't know if he was going to hit that high note. Amazing!

Contestant's favorite moment:

Jena Irene sang I Can't Help Falling in Love with You by Elvis Presley-- Harry thought it was beautiful. Keith said she is a trailblazer and an original (so much so that she inspired someone else on a reality show to sing it --- Christina Grimmie on The Voice). Jenn said she feels her soul come through on that song. It was beautiful the first time and it was beautiful again. I loved it.

Caleb Johnson sang Maybe I'm Amazed by Paul McCartney-- Harry said I think you won the first round, and I think Jena won the second round. It's really close. I loved this performance as well, the funny thing is, hearing them both again, I am not as surprised as I was the first time around.

Original Songs:

Jena Irene sang We Are One-- I never love the original songs very much. I think I have maybe like 2 or 3 in all the years Idol has been on. This song was all right. Keith felt like it suited her and Harry liked that it sounded as good live as it did in the studio.

Caleb Johnson sang As Long As You Love Me-- All the judges felt like Caleb gave it his all and said America would have a hard time voting. I'm with the judges, who will win this.... your guess is as good as mine.


Wednesday, May 14, 2014

American Idol Season 13: Now it's Three

Randy's choice: 

Caleb Johnson sang Never Tear Us Apart by INXS-- Loved the style of the song, but his vocal was tentative. It's like he was afraid of cracking in spots. Jenn said you on your worst night are better than other people on their best night. 

Alex Preston sang Bastille by Pompeii-- Good song choice, liked the drums. However, I did think there were some pitch issues. Harry said it seemed like he was thinking at parts but said he should keep practicing and do the song on the road. 

Jena Irene sang Titanium by David Guetta and Sia-- This was another good song choice by Randy; however, she was screechy in points. It started off weird, even Jenn picked up on it. 

Judge's Choice:

Caleb Johnson sang Demons by Imagine Dragons-- Keith thought he killed it and liked the Steve Perry vibe in his voice. Jenn said when you voice is failing you like that, focus on the emotion, and she felt like he did. 

Alex Preston sang Stay by Rihanna feat. Mikkey Ekko-- Wow, genuinely impressed with his interpretation of that song. Jenn and Keith were on their feet. Jenn appeared to be getting the shivers as he was singing. I agree with Jenn, I didn't hear shreds of Rihanna or Mikkey in that song. Harry asked him what his concerts would be like, and he said fun. Keith liked the artistic license he took and he owned the song from start to finish. 

Jena Irene sang Heart Attack by Demi Lovato-- I was a little but underwhelmed by this performance. I expected her to go up and hit that note at the end. I wanted her to hit that huge high note, and she didn't, she just ended the song. It was kind of weird. 

Hometown Choice:

Caleb Johnson sang Dazed and Confused by Led Zepplin-- Keith and Jenn were on their feet throughout the performance. It was full of energy and I truly enjoyed the performance. Keith said it was a moment of miraculous healing. Jenn called it a true Idol moment, ridiculous. Harry said you took full advantage, absolutely fantastic. 

Alex Preston sang The Story of My Life by One Direction-- I feel like out of all the songs Alex sang, this one fits him well and he emotes.The only song I perhaps would have chosen more is his original song Fairy Tale. Harry thought it was a classic Alex performance, very strong, he doesn't know anyone who doesn't like that song. Keith thought after the amazing performance of Stay, it was a step down. 

Jena Irene sang Creep by Radiohead-- Harry thought it was better than the first time around. Keith said your progress is mindblowing and you do belong here. I agree! This was an awesome performance. I liked the word Keith used last week, spellbinding. 

The following Idols paid their respects on Episode 500! 

Carrie Underwood
Phillip Phillips
Kris Allen
David Cook
Lee Dewyze
Fantasia
Jordin Sparks