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 Nicki Minaj. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nicki Minaj. Show all posts
Sunday, January 10, 2016
Monday, January 12, 2015
The Ultimate Playlist for 2014, Music Rules!
2014 was the year of the lady in music--Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Arianna Grande, Nicki Minaj, Iggy Azalea, Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Sia, Katy Perry, and the list could continue. Noticeably absent from my list this year-- Rihanna who laid low, Lady Gaga who cut a jazz record with Tony Bennett, and Christina Aguilera, Alicia Keys, and Kelly Clarkson who all had babies.
The release of a new Ed Sheeran album brought many hits for the young artist who continued to dominate the charts. Adam Levine's success on The Voice may have inspired possibly his best album yet with Maroon 5.
Newbies also dominated, a young man by the name of Sam Smith made many believers with his soulful voice and vulnerable lyrics. Iggy Azalea, though not fancy in her delivery, proved that she was a black widow on the charts, though, she hasn't made my list. Hosier took us to church with his powerful vocals, and Meghan Trainor wrote and sang a clever song about what else? Booty.
I can't wait any longer-- here's the playlist---
0 to 100 by Drake-- In a year where Drake didn't release an album, it doesn't surprise me that he wrote this song in an effort to tell his competition that he will always dominate rap/ R&B music. The song has been nominated at the Grammy's for Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance.
Ain't it Fun by Paramore-- One of my absolute faves of the year. A group lead by Hayley Williams with mainly a rock style, Ain't it Fun showed musical diversity adding some soul and gospel, actually going back to Williams' childhood. The song written by Williams and guitarist Taylor York is nominated for best rock song at the Grammy Awards and climbed all the way to number one on the US Top 40. I love the strong lyrics. I love the fun video for this song too..... ingenious....
All About That Bass by Meghan Trainor-- She had a breakout year all because she wrote a clever song about what else......... booty. Hailing from Nantucket, MA, Meghan attended Berkley College of Music and got a deal with a record company writing songs for the likes of Rascal Flatts. She wrote All About That Bass and wanted to give the song to an artist but when it didn't work out she recorded the song herself, L.A. Reid heard it and signed her to Epic records, and the rest, they say, is history. She song made it to number one on the Top 40 Charts and is nominated for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Girl Power!
Animals by Maroon 5-- Adam Levine said that V, the group's fifth album is their best, and he is quite possibly right. Animals showcases Levine's disinct vocals, his range, and that killer falsetto. The video, although creepy, features Levine and real life wife Behati Prinsloo. This was the tenth top ten for Maroon 5 and a number one on the Top 40 Charts.
Automatic by Miranda Lambert-- In Automatic, Miranda Lambert writes about the good times, being young and carefree, and the song encourages people to live life more simply, Although not a number one, Lambert is nominated for Best Country Song and Country Solo Performance at the Grammy Awards.
Bang Bang by Jessie J, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj-- What happens when you take three powerhouse artists, one who is a prolific rapper and two powerhouse vocalists? You get the song Bang Bang, this banging collaboration full of punch and fire. The song appears on Ariana's album My Everything and Jessie J's album Sweet Talker. They have a great chance of picking up the Grammy for Best Pop Duo Group Performance, and if they don't win, their competition better move out of the way.
Birthday by Katy Perry-- I'm not sure, but I believe the reason why I like this song so much is because of the disco beat. Perry is probably at her strongest in terms of songwriting with this song, and she has help from Bonnie McKee. Full of double entendres, Perry makes some sexy references while at the same time celebrating her significant other's birthday. The song made it to number three on the Hot Dance Charts and it's easy to see why because this is a definitely a song that anyone can dance to.
Blank Space by Taylor Swift-- Another one of my favorite songs of the year because it showed the dark and crazy side of Taylor Swift. Just kidding, it actually satirizes Swift's relationships as viewed by the media. The song replaced Swift's first single from 1989, Shake It Off at number one. Swift became the first female artist to replace herself at number one.
Break Free by Ariana Grande featuring Zedd-- This is the song for me where Ariana Grande proved her vocal chops. We heard her demonstrate them in her debut single The Way but we weren't sure if it was a fluke or not. Nay-sayers be silenced now because Ariana is pint sized but her vocals are grande. She became the second female to have three songs in the top ten: Break Free, Bang Bang, and Problem; Adele was the last one to do it in 2012.
Chandelier by Sia-- Sia is one of those artists who is so true to herself and who she is as an artist. Chandelier tackles the issue of alcoholism and wanting to drown problems away by drinking. Sia's vocals soar and she scored four Grammy noms as a result-- Song of the Year, Record of the Year, Solo Pop Vocal Performance, and Music Video of the Year.
Dangerous by David Guetta featuring Sam Martin--
Don't by Ed Sheeran-- I love Ed Sheeran. Supposedly, this song was inspired by his relationship with Light's singer Ellie Goulding and her suspected tryst with Niall from One Direction. My question is, Ellie, how could you do that to Ed Sheeran. But then when I think about it again, I think, it did inspire one heck of a song.
Drunk in Love by Beyonce-- How could I put Partition on this list without putting Drunk in Love on it. Beyonce's flow is the best part of this song, I like how she sings but also has a hard speaking style on this song. She and Drake need to collaborate soon because they would sound blend so well.
The Heart Wants What it Wants by Selena Gomez-- Selena released this song at the end of 2014 and said that it was about everyone knowing her feelings and why she did what she did. It's about anyone who ever judged her choices or judged her heart. I think that most will say the song is about the end of her relationship with Justin Bieber (hopefully it's over for good), but the truth is we will never truly know.
Hideaway by Kiesza-- I read what the song is about and was inspired by and it makes no sense to me but I do like the song, and I think it's one of the best dance tracks I've heard in a long time.
I'm Not the Only One by Sam Smith-- I think Sam Smith was the new artist of 2014. What a breakout year this young man had. I'm Not the Only One was only a part of that........ Latch, Stay with Me, Money on My Mind, Restart.... the list goes on. In the Lonely Hour, was, in my opinion, the debut album of the year. Sam Smith deserves every accolade that comes his way.
Jealous by Nick Jonas-- Robbed of Sexiest Man of the Year by People magazine in my humble opinion. I think Jealous was everyone's guilty pleasure song for 2014. It was on their playlists even if they didn't want to admit that it was. Jonas says the song was inspired by his relationship with his girlfriend Olivia Culpo.
Love Me Harder by Ariana Grande feat. The Weeknd-- Called by critics the best track off My Everything, Love Me Harder is probably my favorite Ariana track ever. I love the pairing between Ariana and The Weeknd, their voices just work well together. It's still climbing the charts and is the fourth top ten hit off Ariana's album. For me, it wins the award for sexiest track of the year.
Don't get the video but dig the live performance on SNL.
Maps by Maroon 5-- This is a single that I am surprised didn't receive more attention in terms of awards, etc. There are a lot of ways in which it reminds me of a Sting (with the Police) type of song. Strong sound, strong, vocals, strong song, and solid album.
New Flame by Chris Brown featuring Usher & Rick Ross-- After being released from prison for violating terms of his probation, Chris Brown said he wanted to focus on his music. Despite the fact that the singer remains to be troubled in many ways, he is still a performer at the top of his game. Brown first released the song with just him and Rick Ross and released it with Usher and Rick Ross over the summer. Arguably the song became significantly stronger with Usher proving that he still has something special when it comes to an R&B jam. The latter became a number one R&B hit after all.
Partition by Beyonce-- By far the most underrated R&B song of the year; it didn't make it to number one and should have. With sexy as hell lyrics and an equally sexy music video, Partition has an initially saccharine pop sound that changes into a hip hop sound that explores Beyonce's (or Yonce in this songs) Houston roots. Penned by Beyonce, Timbaland, Justin Timberlake, The Dream, and a supporting cast, the song has satisfyingly catchy lyrics that play to Beyonce's sensuality. You might have to take a cold shower after watching the video.
Pills N Potions by Nicki Minaj-- We couldn't have a best of 2014 without Nicki. Pills N Potions to me represents Nicki's serious and soulful side. There is a heart and sincerity in there that really comes out in this single. The song explores something that happens to everyone-- loving someone who has wronged you.
Play It Again by Luke Bryan-- He can crash my party any time if he keeps writing and singing hit after hit. Bryan had a banner year in 2014 and it only looks to get better. Play It Again was a number one country hit single.
Rather Be by Clean Bandit-- Rather Be is the case of the hit single by the group we've never heard of before. Clean Bandit is by a British electronic group and features the vocals of Jess Glyne. It became one of the fastest selling singles in the UK, and gained even more fame for it's music video that went viral with over 200 million views to date! The song made it all the way to number one on the dance charts and what culminated the year for the song was the nomination for Best Dance Recording at the Grammy's.
Shake It Off by Taylor Swift-- I bet if you asked Taylor Swift if she had the year of her life and career in 2014 she would tell you yes. All signs point that way after all. Swift took a major risk making an all pop music album and departing her country roots with the release of 1989, but Swift says she knew her fans would take the journey with her. Shake It Off was major proof of that. Not only was it risk that it wasn't country, but it was a risk that Shake It Off was so uptempo, something that Swifty's aren't used to. I think what resonated most though, and made the song so popular so quickly was the message of the song. The idea that we should just take all that negativity, bad stuff, bad people, and just shake it off. Once again, she manager to connect with her fans and the results: another number one hit, nominations for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Pop Solo Performance of the Year (at the Grammy's), and a sold out stadium tour for next summer.
She Knows by Neyo-- He has written countless hit songs for other artists and never forgets to deliver the goods when it comes to himself. Neyo has yet to release his new album Non Fiction, but if She Knows is a sneak preview, I'm in. The song is a bit of a departure for Neyo, it's a little less clean cut then usual, it gets a little dirty, while still showcasing Neyo's precise vocals. At number eight on the R&B charts and still climbing, it seems as though Neyo's success lives up to his album title.
Sing by Ed Sheeran-- You all know from earlier in this playlist that I love Ed Sheeran, and initially when I thought of him, I thought of that alternative sound like Lego House. Sing changed my mind about all of that. It took Ed Sheeran out of that box, he proved that he has versatility, and, dare I say it, credibility in terms of possessing a soulful voice! Sheeran wrote the song with Pharrell Williams and says that Justin Timberlake's vocal stylings inspired him. I'd say he came pretty close, and even more convincing is Ed's falsetto.
A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay-- Not much is written about the song, but it sure is good isn't it? I may have tired from hearing about Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow's uncoupling but I will never tire of this song. Listen to it, and when Chris Martin stops singing and all your hear is music that's when you start jumping up and down. Try it, I bet it will make you feel good.
Somethin' Bad by Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood-- What happens when two of the most prevalent females in country music record a song together? The answer: Somethin' Bad! And I mean that in the best way possible. Carrie Underwood admits that it's been a while since two country females got together and did a song that, "in your face". Apparently Somethin' Bad was good cause Miranda and Carrie earned a Grammy nod for Best Country Group/ Duo Performance.
Take Me to Church by Hosier-- Take Me to Church is the impressive debut single from the Irish artist Hosier. It was quite the year for Hosier who was covered by The Voice, sang in the Victoria's Secret fashion show, and was nominated for Song of the Year at the Grammy's for a song that he wrote himself. Hosier says that the song ultimately is about comparing his lover to religion. With this as his debut, I cannot wait to see what Hosier does next.
Team by Lorde-- Wise beyond her years, mature beyond her years, Lorde is a lyrical master. This song is proof of her greatness. I doubted her at first, but I can honestly say, this playlist would not have been right without her on it.
Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran-- He's the only artist to appear on my playlist for 2014 three times. Well deserved Mr. Sheeran, I bet that every woman on the face of this Earth wishes she were your dance partner in this video.
Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson-- It had been a while since Bruno Mars released something new, and then all of a sudden I started hearing about this new project he was working on with Mark Ronson, and I only had to hear the song once to know it was the real deal. I was hooked from the first lyric. Bruno Mars is a throwback, he sounds like he should be from another time, but we are blessed enough to have him here right now. Uptown Funk is so stylized and so right that only Bruno could pull it off in true Bruno Mars style. Don't believe me....... just watch!
I believe that this song is going to go all the way to number one.
The release of a new Ed Sheeran album brought many hits for the young artist who continued to dominate the charts. Adam Levine's success on The Voice may have inspired possibly his best album yet with Maroon 5.
Newbies also dominated, a young man by the name of Sam Smith made many believers with his soulful voice and vulnerable lyrics. Iggy Azalea, though not fancy in her delivery, proved that she was a black widow on the charts, though, she hasn't made my list. Hosier took us to church with his powerful vocals, and Meghan Trainor wrote and sang a clever song about what else? Booty.
I can't wait any longer-- here's the playlist---
0 to 100 by Drake-- In a year where Drake didn't release an album, it doesn't surprise me that he wrote this song in an effort to tell his competition that he will always dominate rap/ R&B music. The song has been nominated at the Grammy's for Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance.
Ain't it Fun by Paramore-- One of my absolute faves of the year. A group lead by Hayley Williams with mainly a rock style, Ain't it Fun showed musical diversity adding some soul and gospel, actually going back to Williams' childhood. The song written by Williams and guitarist Taylor York is nominated for best rock song at the Grammy Awards and climbed all the way to number one on the US Top 40. I love the strong lyrics. I love the fun video for this song too..... ingenious....
All About That Bass by Meghan Trainor-- She had a breakout year all because she wrote a clever song about what else......... booty. Hailing from Nantucket, MA, Meghan attended Berkley College of Music and got a deal with a record company writing songs for the likes of Rascal Flatts. She wrote All About That Bass and wanted to give the song to an artist but when it didn't work out she recorded the song herself, L.A. Reid heard it and signed her to Epic records, and the rest, they say, is history. She song made it to number one on the Top 40 Charts and is nominated for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Girl Power!
Animals by Maroon 5-- Adam Levine said that V, the group's fifth album is their best, and he is quite possibly right. Animals showcases Levine's disinct vocals, his range, and that killer falsetto. The video, although creepy, features Levine and real life wife Behati Prinsloo. This was the tenth top ten for Maroon 5 and a number one on the Top 40 Charts.
Automatic by Miranda Lambert-- In Automatic, Miranda Lambert writes about the good times, being young and carefree, and the song encourages people to live life more simply, Although not a number one, Lambert is nominated for Best Country Song and Country Solo Performance at the Grammy Awards.
Bang Bang by Jessie J, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj-- What happens when you take three powerhouse artists, one who is a prolific rapper and two powerhouse vocalists? You get the song Bang Bang, this banging collaboration full of punch and fire. The song appears on Ariana's album My Everything and Jessie J's album Sweet Talker. They have a great chance of picking up the Grammy for Best Pop Duo Group Performance, and if they don't win, their competition better move out of the way.
Birthday by Katy Perry-- I'm not sure, but I believe the reason why I like this song so much is because of the disco beat. Perry is probably at her strongest in terms of songwriting with this song, and she has help from Bonnie McKee. Full of double entendres, Perry makes some sexy references while at the same time celebrating her significant other's birthday. The song made it to number three on the Hot Dance Charts and it's easy to see why because this is a definitely a song that anyone can dance to.
Blank Space by Taylor Swift-- Another one of my favorite songs of the year because it showed the dark and crazy side of Taylor Swift. Just kidding, it actually satirizes Swift's relationships as viewed by the media. The song replaced Swift's first single from 1989, Shake It Off at number one. Swift became the first female artist to replace herself at number one.
Break Free by Ariana Grande featuring Zedd-- This is the song for me where Ariana Grande proved her vocal chops. We heard her demonstrate them in her debut single The Way but we weren't sure if it was a fluke or not. Nay-sayers be silenced now because Ariana is pint sized but her vocals are grande. She became the second female to have three songs in the top ten: Break Free, Bang Bang, and Problem; Adele was the last one to do it in 2012.
Chandelier by Sia-- Sia is one of those artists who is so true to herself and who she is as an artist. Chandelier tackles the issue of alcoholism and wanting to drown problems away by drinking. Sia's vocals soar and she scored four Grammy noms as a result-- Song of the Year, Record of the Year, Solo Pop Vocal Performance, and Music Video of the Year.
Dangerous by David Guetta featuring Sam Martin--
Don't by Ed Sheeran-- I love Ed Sheeran. Supposedly, this song was inspired by his relationship with Light's singer Ellie Goulding and her suspected tryst with Niall from One Direction. My question is, Ellie, how could you do that to Ed Sheeran. But then when I think about it again, I think, it did inspire one heck of a song.
Drunk in Love by Beyonce-- How could I put Partition on this list without putting Drunk in Love on it. Beyonce's flow is the best part of this song, I like how she sings but also has a hard speaking style on this song. She and Drake need to collaborate soon because they would sound blend so well.
The Heart Wants What it Wants by Selena Gomez-- Selena released this song at the end of 2014 and said that it was about everyone knowing her feelings and why she did what she did. It's about anyone who ever judged her choices or judged her heart. I think that most will say the song is about the end of her relationship with Justin Bieber (hopefully it's over for good), but the truth is we will never truly know.
Hideaway by Kiesza-- I read what the song is about and was inspired by and it makes no sense to me but I do like the song, and I think it's one of the best dance tracks I've heard in a long time.
I'm Not the Only One by Sam Smith-- I think Sam Smith was the new artist of 2014. What a breakout year this young man had. I'm Not the Only One was only a part of that........ Latch, Stay with Me, Money on My Mind, Restart.... the list goes on. In the Lonely Hour, was, in my opinion, the debut album of the year. Sam Smith deserves every accolade that comes his way.
Jealous by Nick Jonas-- Robbed of Sexiest Man of the Year by People magazine in my humble opinion. I think Jealous was everyone's guilty pleasure song for 2014. It was on their playlists even if they didn't want to admit that it was. Jonas says the song was inspired by his relationship with his girlfriend Olivia Culpo.
Love Me Harder by Ariana Grande feat. The Weeknd-- Called by critics the best track off My Everything, Love Me Harder is probably my favorite Ariana track ever. I love the pairing between Ariana and The Weeknd, their voices just work well together. It's still climbing the charts and is the fourth top ten hit off Ariana's album. For me, it wins the award for sexiest track of the year.
Don't get the video but dig the live performance on SNL.
Maps by Maroon 5-- This is a single that I am surprised didn't receive more attention in terms of awards, etc. There are a lot of ways in which it reminds me of a Sting (with the Police) type of song. Strong sound, strong, vocals, strong song, and solid album.
New Flame by Chris Brown featuring Usher & Rick Ross-- After being released from prison for violating terms of his probation, Chris Brown said he wanted to focus on his music. Despite the fact that the singer remains to be troubled in many ways, he is still a performer at the top of his game. Brown first released the song with just him and Rick Ross and released it with Usher and Rick Ross over the summer. Arguably the song became significantly stronger with Usher proving that he still has something special when it comes to an R&B jam. The latter became a number one R&B hit after all.
Partition by Beyonce-- By far the most underrated R&B song of the year; it didn't make it to number one and should have. With sexy as hell lyrics and an equally sexy music video, Partition has an initially saccharine pop sound that changes into a hip hop sound that explores Beyonce's (or Yonce in this songs) Houston roots. Penned by Beyonce, Timbaland, Justin Timberlake, The Dream, and a supporting cast, the song has satisfyingly catchy lyrics that play to Beyonce's sensuality. You might have to take a cold shower after watching the video.
Pills N Potions by Nicki Minaj-- We couldn't have a best of 2014 without Nicki. Pills N Potions to me represents Nicki's serious and soulful side. There is a heart and sincerity in there that really comes out in this single. The song explores something that happens to everyone-- loving someone who has wronged you.
Play It Again by Luke Bryan-- He can crash my party any time if he keeps writing and singing hit after hit. Bryan had a banner year in 2014 and it only looks to get better. Play It Again was a number one country hit single.
Rather Be by Clean Bandit-- Rather Be is the case of the hit single by the group we've never heard of before. Clean Bandit is by a British electronic group and features the vocals of Jess Glyne. It became one of the fastest selling singles in the UK, and gained even more fame for it's music video that went viral with over 200 million views to date! The song made it all the way to number one on the dance charts and what culminated the year for the song was the nomination for Best Dance Recording at the Grammy's.
Shake It Off by Taylor Swift-- I bet if you asked Taylor Swift if she had the year of her life and career in 2014 she would tell you yes. All signs point that way after all. Swift took a major risk making an all pop music album and departing her country roots with the release of 1989, but Swift says she knew her fans would take the journey with her. Shake It Off was major proof of that. Not only was it risk that it wasn't country, but it was a risk that Shake It Off was so uptempo, something that Swifty's aren't used to. I think what resonated most though, and made the song so popular so quickly was the message of the song. The idea that we should just take all that negativity, bad stuff, bad people, and just shake it off. Once again, she manager to connect with her fans and the results: another number one hit, nominations for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Pop Solo Performance of the Year (at the Grammy's), and a sold out stadium tour for next summer.
She Knows by Neyo-- He has written countless hit songs for other artists and never forgets to deliver the goods when it comes to himself. Neyo has yet to release his new album Non Fiction, but if She Knows is a sneak preview, I'm in. The song is a bit of a departure for Neyo, it's a little less clean cut then usual, it gets a little dirty, while still showcasing Neyo's precise vocals. At number eight on the R&B charts and still climbing, it seems as though Neyo's success lives up to his album title.
Sing by Ed Sheeran-- You all know from earlier in this playlist that I love Ed Sheeran, and initially when I thought of him, I thought of that alternative sound like Lego House. Sing changed my mind about all of that. It took Ed Sheeran out of that box, he proved that he has versatility, and, dare I say it, credibility in terms of possessing a soulful voice! Sheeran wrote the song with Pharrell Williams and says that Justin Timberlake's vocal stylings inspired him. I'd say he came pretty close, and even more convincing is Ed's falsetto.
A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay-- Not much is written about the song, but it sure is good isn't it? I may have tired from hearing about Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow's uncoupling but I will never tire of this song. Listen to it, and when Chris Martin stops singing and all your hear is music that's when you start jumping up and down. Try it, I bet it will make you feel good.
Somethin' Bad by Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood-- What happens when two of the most prevalent females in country music record a song together? The answer: Somethin' Bad! And I mean that in the best way possible. Carrie Underwood admits that it's been a while since two country females got together and did a song that, "in your face". Apparently Somethin' Bad was good cause Miranda and Carrie earned a Grammy nod for Best Country Group/ Duo Performance.
Take Me to Church by Hosier-- Take Me to Church is the impressive debut single from the Irish artist Hosier. It was quite the year for Hosier who was covered by The Voice, sang in the Victoria's Secret fashion show, and was nominated for Song of the Year at the Grammy's for a song that he wrote himself. Hosier says that the song ultimately is about comparing his lover to religion. With this as his debut, I cannot wait to see what Hosier does next.
Team by Lorde-- Wise beyond her years, mature beyond her years, Lorde is a lyrical master. This song is proof of her greatness. I doubted her at first, but I can honestly say, this playlist would not have been right without her on it.
Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran-- He's the only artist to appear on my playlist for 2014 three times. Well deserved Mr. Sheeran, I bet that every woman on the face of this Earth wishes she were your dance partner in this video.
Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson-- It had been a while since Bruno Mars released something new, and then all of a sudden I started hearing about this new project he was working on with Mark Ronson, and I only had to hear the song once to know it was the real deal. I was hooked from the first lyric. Bruno Mars is a throwback, he sounds like he should be from another time, but we are blessed enough to have him here right now. Uptown Funk is so stylized and so right that only Bruno could pull it off in true Bruno Mars style. Don't believe me....... just watch!
I believe that this song is going to go all the way to number one.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
American Idol Season 12: The Top 4 One More Time
Last night was one full of odd and difficult song choices as the top four got a reprieve, a re-do, or whatever you wish to call it. Funny that the two who were in the bottom last week, Amber and Candice, received the most positive feedback from the judges last night. Kree and Angie, last week's darlings, dealt with harsh criticism from the judges. For me, Candice was the best last night, both of her performances were well orchestrated and clearly displayed the strength in her voice. I will say that her song choice of When I Was Your Man by Bruno Mars was a little bit strange initially, but she made it work. Her vocals were so strong that I think we forgot all about the details. Her second song choice, You've Changed , had a beautiful jazz style and amazing vocal inflections.
I don't quite understand how Amber came in second with the judges comments. I did not like her performance of Just Give Me A Reason by Pink and Nate Ruess. I will admit that her performance of My Funny Valentine continues to be one of the best of the entire season. In this version, she made some great changes to the song that really showcased the strengths in her voice.
I didn't think Angie's performance of Diamonds by Rihanna was as bad as everyone thought it was. The mood of the song actually fit in quite well with who Angie is. Her second performance, Gershin's Someone To Watch Over Me was easy and melodic. Based on the fact that Angie was in the top two last week, I was pretty sure that she wasn't going anywhere, and I was right.
Kree once again was given the toughest time by the judges, something that up until a couple weeks ago, she wasn't used to. Kree is actually very lucky that she wasn't voted off the show all together. She was the weakest performer on Wednesday night. She sang See You Again by Carrie Underwood, I like this song, but I didn't think it was well known enough for her to sing for a current song. Her rendition of Stormy Weather started out strong but got muddy real quick. It went way off the melody and a classic song suddenly became complicated.
I am excited to see what happens next week when we all get to go home with Angie, Candice, and Kree. I also have no doubt in my mind that Amber Holcomb is headed for stardom.
I don't quite understand how Amber came in second with the judges comments. I did not like her performance of Just Give Me A Reason by Pink and Nate Ruess. I will admit that her performance of My Funny Valentine continues to be one of the best of the entire season. In this version, she made some great changes to the song that really showcased the strengths in her voice.
I didn't think Angie's performance of Diamonds by Rihanna was as bad as everyone thought it was. The mood of the song actually fit in quite well with who Angie is. Her second performance, Gershin's Someone To Watch Over Me was easy and melodic. Based on the fact that Angie was in the top two last week, I was pretty sure that she wasn't going anywhere, and I was right.
Kree once again was given the toughest time by the judges, something that up until a couple weeks ago, she wasn't used to. Kree is actually very lucky that she wasn't voted off the show all together. She was the weakest performer on Wednesday night. She sang See You Again by Carrie Underwood, I like this song, but I didn't think it was well known enough for her to sing for a current song. Her rendition of Stormy Weather started out strong but got muddy real quick. It went way off the melody and a classic song suddenly became complicated.
I am excited to see what happens next week when we all get to go home with Angie, Candice, and Kree. I also have no doubt in my mind that Amber Holcomb is headed for stardom.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
American Idol Season 12: The Top 4 Fall Flat
Is it just me or did several weird things take place tonight on American Idol? Just a couple of weeks ago, a personal fave of mine, Amber Holcomb was consistently landing in the bottom two, and now the judges have all but handed her the Idol crown. First up was a solid performance of Power of Love by Celine Dion. I will admit that this was a good song choice for Amber because it displayed her versatility. Up next though was an odd duet of Rumor Has It by Adele with Kree. This song was not Amber's style, and yet the judges sang her praise while dissing Kree at the same time. Last but not least was a performance of MacArthur Park, and again, this is no offense because I like Amber, but that performance was anemic at best. Her voice cracked twice, and the low notes were so low that you could barely hear her.
On the contrary, Kree who has coasted through the majority of this competition and has a consistent body of work to show from throughout her Idol experience was criticized on her first performance. She was told that her vocal on Susan Tedeschi's It Hurts So Bad didn't have enough emotion. Keith said she didn't give enough in the performance. Nicki even went so far as to say that it wasn't top four worthy. Then when she didn't her second song, Whiter Shade of Pale, they said she redeemed herself. I am happy that Mariah at least turned around and said, for me, there was nothing for you to redeem, you're a true artist. I will be devastated if Kree goes home, because her Idol journey has been too amazing to end her. If she does go home, I have no doubt that this girl is potentially making an awesome record if she has the right people behind her.
Candice is probably the only contestant in this top four who has come out of this competition fairly unscathed so far. The judges haven't thrown her under the bus. Everyone has great comments when it comes to her vocals. There has been some criticism at times about her song choices. Last night was an example of that. She sang Find Your Love by Drake, and I have to say I agree with what Nicki put out there which was that the song has such a great melody and Candice changed that. I wouldn't have changed the melody; she could have still put her Candice spin on it without doing that. Then she sang Emotion which was a good choice for her, but the reviews were really mixed. Mariah called it stellar, but Keith felt she needed to separate herself from the other girls and choose a bare bones song that speaks to her.
Perhaps the dark horse in this competition, Angie had arguably the strongest night. Although she sang Jesse J's Who You Are in the audition rounds, this was completely different. She was at the piano and she just completely let go of all her inhibitions, and it was just so free. Randy called it a 10 out of 10 out of 10. Mariah thought it was stunning and thinks Angie has a career as a songwriter as well. On her second song, Cry Me a River, Randy felt that she won the night. I must agree, she really stepped up and I think she impressed everyone. When I think about the market now for musicians, there's no one like Angie out there. Keith called the performance mystically, celestially powerful. If she goes home, I think she gets a record deal when all is said and done, but I think if she's won hearts like I think she has, she's not going anywhere this week.
My prediction to go home: Amber
On the contrary, Kree who has coasted through the majority of this competition and has a consistent body of work to show from throughout her Idol experience was criticized on her first performance. She was told that her vocal on Susan Tedeschi's It Hurts So Bad didn't have enough emotion. Keith said she didn't give enough in the performance. Nicki even went so far as to say that it wasn't top four worthy. Then when she didn't her second song, Whiter Shade of Pale, they said she redeemed herself. I am happy that Mariah at least turned around and said, for me, there was nothing for you to redeem, you're a true artist. I will be devastated if Kree goes home, because her Idol journey has been too amazing to end her. If she does go home, I have no doubt that this girl is potentially making an awesome record if she has the right people behind her.
Candice is probably the only contestant in this top four who has come out of this competition fairly unscathed so far. The judges haven't thrown her under the bus. Everyone has great comments when it comes to her vocals. There has been some criticism at times about her song choices. Last night was an example of that. She sang Find Your Love by Drake, and I have to say I agree with what Nicki put out there which was that the song has such a great melody and Candice changed that. I wouldn't have changed the melody; she could have still put her Candice spin on it without doing that. Then she sang Emotion which was a good choice for her, but the reviews were really mixed. Mariah called it stellar, but Keith felt she needed to separate herself from the other girls and choose a bare bones song that speaks to her.
Perhaps the dark horse in this competition, Angie had arguably the strongest night. Although she sang Jesse J's Who You Are in the audition rounds, this was completely different. She was at the piano and she just completely let go of all her inhibitions, and it was just so free. Randy called it a 10 out of 10 out of 10. Mariah thought it was stunning and thinks Angie has a career as a songwriter as well. On her second song, Cry Me a River, Randy felt that she won the night. I must agree, she really stepped up and I think she impressed everyone. When I think about the market now for musicians, there's no one like Angie out there. Keith called the performance mystically, celestially powerful. If she goes home, I think she gets a record deal when all is said and done, but I think if she's won hearts like I think she has, she's not going anywhere this week.
My prediction to go home: Amber
Thursday, April 18, 2013
American Idol Season 12: The Top Five Rise to the Occasion
It's been a while since the top five has been this on point. This top five had everything, and the best part is that each of them kept their own styles. The song selections overall were beautiful. I don't think anyone chose music that didn't fit them last night. I must agree with something that the judges said last night which is that I do think Janelle is in some trouble. Amber, Candice, and Kree have such big, powerful voices, and Angie, I think, really touched peoples hearts last night with her performances. I actually believe she had that breakthrough that the judges have been saying she needed to have. She came into her own and her song choices were just so heartfelt. If people don't vote for Amber after her performances last night, clearly, people don't have a grip on what true talent is. One way or another, Amber will be a star. Kree is also someone that is destined for stardom. I think those three ladies are the top three right now: Angie, Amber, and Kree. I love Candice, but something tells me she won't win this competition.
So the two themes for last night were: Songs from the Year you were Born and Divas.
Candice kicked off the show first (that is the kiss of death position by the way), it's tough to go first, and she did a great job. Amber got to end the show, and I hope that it gained her some votes because she deserves them.
Candice sang Straight Up by Paul Abdul and When You Believe by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey-- Her second performance was better than her first. I think it was because the style was more naturally her. I will say I loved the way that she changed Straight Up to suit her style and vocal ability more. I have no idea what Jimmy Iovine was talking about when he said that the arrangement wasn't right. Randy thought her performance of When You Believe was the best of the night. Mariah thought that she did the song justice and told Whitney to rest in peace. Keith loved watching the way Mariah supported Candice like a sisterhood.
Janelle sang When I Call You Name by Vince Gill and Dumb Blonde by Dolly Parton-- Janelle's first performance was better than her second. The Vince Gill song was touching and heartfelt. I love the idea of Janelle singing Dolly Parton, but she should have chosen another song. I loved Nicki's comments about Janelle's voice being angelic in the first song; that's exactly what I think of her voice too. That being said, Janelle could be in trouble tonight.
Kree Harrison sang She Talks to Angels by The Black Crowes and Have You Ever Been in Love by Celine Dion-- Wow, I think Kree had an amazing night. She is someone I consistently don't know what to say about her because she is just so talented. I liked her first choice, but I loved her second choice. Kree was really able to show her versatility. She can sing rock, pop, country, jazz, R&B; she gives so much in each performance and put her own nuances into it. On the first song, Mariah and Nicki had a little disagreement. Nicki thought it was the first current performance of the night, but Mariah felt she didn't completely lose herself in the song like she usually does. On the second song, slam dunk! Kree got a standing ovation and it was just such an effortless vocal. All the judges thought it was beautiful and loved her versatility.
Angie Miller sang I'll Stand By You by The Pretenders and Halo by Beyonce-- Angie was world class last night. Her tribute to Boston was beautiful. I loved her sitting at the piano and just putting all her emotion and everything she had into it. Her spin on Halo was theatrical and filled with feeling. I loved towards the end where she kept repeating, "it's written all over your face" and "I pray it don't fade away". Nicki actually said you sang that Beyonce song like a Queen could. Keith predicted that she would be in the top three and Mariah exclaimed that Angie is here to stay.
Amber Holcomb sang Without You by Mariah Carey and What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life by Barbara Steisand-- Amber = young Whitney Houston. I think I loved her second performance more because as she said, it took her back to that jazzy blues style when she sang My Funny Valentine. That performance back when she began was when I knew she was the real deal. Amber was born to do this. She received standing ovations for both performances. I will agree with Nicki that when she sang Without You, it was tough for her to get down into that lower register of her voice. The second performance was perfection, Keith felt she knocked it out of the park and Mariah begged people to vote for Amber. I hope that they listened.
So the two themes for last night were: Songs from the Year you were Born and Divas.
Candice kicked off the show first (that is the kiss of death position by the way), it's tough to go first, and she did a great job. Amber got to end the show, and I hope that it gained her some votes because she deserves them.
Candice sang Straight Up by Paul Abdul and When You Believe by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey-- Her second performance was better than her first. I think it was because the style was more naturally her. I will say I loved the way that she changed Straight Up to suit her style and vocal ability more. I have no idea what Jimmy Iovine was talking about when he said that the arrangement wasn't right. Randy thought her performance of When You Believe was the best of the night. Mariah thought that she did the song justice and told Whitney to rest in peace. Keith loved watching the way Mariah supported Candice like a sisterhood.
Janelle sang When I Call You Name by Vince Gill and Dumb Blonde by Dolly Parton-- Janelle's first performance was better than her second. The Vince Gill song was touching and heartfelt. I love the idea of Janelle singing Dolly Parton, but she should have chosen another song. I loved Nicki's comments about Janelle's voice being angelic in the first song; that's exactly what I think of her voice too. That being said, Janelle could be in trouble tonight.
Kree Harrison sang She Talks to Angels by The Black Crowes and Have You Ever Been in Love by Celine Dion-- Wow, I think Kree had an amazing night. She is someone I consistently don't know what to say about her because she is just so talented. I liked her first choice, but I loved her second choice. Kree was really able to show her versatility. She can sing rock, pop, country, jazz, R&B; she gives so much in each performance and put her own nuances into it. On the first song, Mariah and Nicki had a little disagreement. Nicki thought it was the first current performance of the night, but Mariah felt she didn't completely lose herself in the song like she usually does. On the second song, slam dunk! Kree got a standing ovation and it was just such an effortless vocal. All the judges thought it was beautiful and loved her versatility.
Angie Miller sang I'll Stand By You by The Pretenders and Halo by Beyonce-- Angie was world class last night. Her tribute to Boston was beautiful. I loved her sitting at the piano and just putting all her emotion and everything she had into it. Her spin on Halo was theatrical and filled with feeling. I loved towards the end where she kept repeating, "it's written all over your face" and "I pray it don't fade away". Nicki actually said you sang that Beyonce song like a Queen could. Keith predicted that she would be in the top three and Mariah exclaimed that Angie is here to stay.
Amber Holcomb sang Without You by Mariah Carey and What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life by Barbara Steisand-- Amber = young Whitney Houston. I think I loved her second performance more because as she said, it took her back to that jazzy blues style when she sang My Funny Valentine. That performance back when she began was when I knew she was the real deal. Amber was born to do this. She received standing ovations for both performances. I will agree with Nicki that when she sang Without You, it was tough for her to get down into that lower register of her voice. The second performance was perfection, Keith felt she knocked it out of the park and Mariah begged people to vote for Amber. I hope that they listened.
Saturday, April 13, 2013
American Idol Season 12: 5 Divas Set to Battle it Out
You read right! There are five ladies left in the competition. Lazaro Arbos was eliminated from American Idol this week, but this was major for more than one reason. One, there are no more men left in the competition. Two, the men went down in order, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6 making this arguably the weakest men's field in American Idol history. I'm left wondering, did we get the five best guys to represent in the top ten? The only guy who definitely should have been there was Burnell Taylor, and possibly Lazaro for the sheer reason that he possessed no experience as a singer before Idol. What continues to surprise me is that the judges never used "the save". It shouldn't have to be unanimous because you have judges like Nicki Minaj who to prove an unnecessary point purposely disagree with the majority of the panel. She came out and said, she wasn't going to use "the save" on a guy and if it wasn't used on Curtis, it wouldn't be used on anyone else.
Another thing that completely puzzles me about this season is why the public isn't absolutely smitten with Amber Holcomb. When I look at her and hear her, I see and hear a young Whitney Houston at the top of her game. I cannot understand why Amber is consistently in the bottom two or three. People need to get on board with someone like her; she's beyond talented.
This week's theme was songs from the Burt Bacharach and Hal David songbook and Songs You Wish You'd Written.
My top two was Kree and Amber because both of their performances were good.
My middle two was Candice and Angie because they each had one performance that was good.
My bottom two was Janelle and Lazaro.
Angela Miller – “Anyone Who Had A Heart” by Burt Bacharach/Dionne Warwick -- Should have played perfectly to her dramatics but it was boring and old fashioned.
Angela Miller – “Love Came Down” by Kari Jobe-- This was Angie at her best, sitting at the piano, pouring out emotion and sounding amazing.
Amber Holcomb – “I Say A Little Prayer” by Burt Bacharach/Dionne Warwick -- Amber took an old song that's been done over I don't know how many times and made it current and made it her own.
Amber Holcomb – “Love On Top” by Beyonce-- I loved this choice for Amber, it was upbeat but sweet.
Lazaro Arbos - “Close To You” – Bacharach/David originally sung by The Carpenters-- This was not good. I actually felt bad for Lazaro. I'd like to know who thought he should even start the song in that low a key?
Lazaro Arbos – “Angels” by Robbie Williams-- Love this song, and it was an improvement over his first performance but not enough to save him in the end.
Kree Harrison – ”What the World Needs Now” by Burt Bacharach and Hal David-- Kree took this song and made it her own.
Kree Harrison – ”Help Me Make it Through The Night” by Kris Kristofferson-- This song sounded like it was custom made for Kree. She sounded amazing; this is exactly the type of record she should be making.
Janelle Arthur- “I’ll Never Fall In Love Again” by Burt Bacharach-- I actually found this a bit boring, but I enjoyed Janelle's voice.
Janelle Arthur – “The Dance” by Garth Brooks-- This was a great choice for Janelle; she sounded like a legit country star.
Candice Glover – “Don’t Make Me Over” by Burt Bacharach/Dionne Warwick-- Everyone thought it was wonderful, but I thought it was boring. I didn't care for all the vocal acrobatics.
Candice Glover – “Love Song” by The Cure/Adele-- I did love this performance, as for it being the best in Idol history, I don't think so. There are a lot of memorable performances....... I could make a list: Kelly Clarkson-- Natural Woman, David Cook-- Billie Jean, Fantasia-- Summertime, Chris Daughtry-- Wanted Dead or Alive, and the list goes on. (maybe sometime, I'll actually tackle making a list of the best and most memorable Idol performances ever).
Another thing that completely puzzles me about this season is why the public isn't absolutely smitten with Amber Holcomb. When I look at her and hear her, I see and hear a young Whitney Houston at the top of her game. I cannot understand why Amber is consistently in the bottom two or three. People need to get on board with someone like her; she's beyond talented.
This week's theme was songs from the Burt Bacharach and Hal David songbook and Songs You Wish You'd Written.
My top two was Kree and Amber because both of their performances were good.
My middle two was Candice and Angie because they each had one performance that was good.
My bottom two was Janelle and Lazaro.
Angela Miller – “Anyone Who Had A Heart” by Burt Bacharach/Dionne Warwick -- Should have played perfectly to her dramatics but it was boring and old fashioned.
Angela Miller – “Love Came Down” by Kari Jobe-- This was Angie at her best, sitting at the piano, pouring out emotion and sounding amazing.
Amber Holcomb – “I Say A Little Prayer” by Burt Bacharach/Dionne Warwick -- Amber took an old song that's been done over I don't know how many times and made it current and made it her own.
Amber Holcomb – “Love On Top” by Beyonce-- I loved this choice for Amber, it was upbeat but sweet.
Lazaro Arbos - “Close To You” – Bacharach/David originally sung by The Carpenters-- This was not good. I actually felt bad for Lazaro. I'd like to know who thought he should even start the song in that low a key?
Lazaro Arbos – “Angels” by Robbie Williams-- Love this song, and it was an improvement over his first performance but not enough to save him in the end.
Kree Harrison – ”What the World Needs Now” by Burt Bacharach and Hal David-- Kree took this song and made it her own.
Kree Harrison – ”Help Me Make it Through The Night” by Kris Kristofferson-- This song sounded like it was custom made for Kree. She sounded amazing; this is exactly the type of record she should be making.
Janelle Arthur- “I’ll Never Fall In Love Again” by Burt Bacharach-- I actually found this a bit boring, but I enjoyed Janelle's voice.
Janelle Arthur – “The Dance” by Garth Brooks-- This was a great choice for Janelle; she sounded like a legit country star.
Candice Glover – “Don’t Make Me Over” by Burt Bacharach/Dionne Warwick-- Everyone thought it was wonderful, but I thought it was boring. I didn't care for all the vocal acrobatics.
Candice Glover – “Love Song” by The Cure/Adele-- I did love this performance, as for it being the best in Idol history, I don't think so. There are a lot of memorable performances....... I could make a list: Kelly Clarkson-- Natural Woman, David Cook-- Billie Jean, Fantasia-- Summertime, Chris Daughtry-- Wanted Dead or Alive, and the list goes on. (maybe sometime, I'll actually tackle making a list of the best and most memorable Idol performances ever).
Monday, April 1, 2013
American Idol Season 12: The Top 8 Become 7
This week on American Idol, the contestants were mentored by Motown legend Smokey Robinson as they took on the songs of Motown. Overall, it was a night filled with okay performances.
The top three performances of the night for me were Amber, Kree, and Janelle in that order with Burnell coming a close fourth.
Amber sang Lately by Stevie Wonder-- She was the only contestant of the night to receive a standing ovation from the judges. Her vocal was honestly in a class by itself. I think so much has been made of Candice throughout this competition, and everyone has kind of forgotten about Amber. To me, she has a voice like Whitney Houston. Mariah called it a tour de force. Keith told her that she sang it and felt it beautifully. Nicki told her that her vocals are unmatched. Randy said she was the best of the night and continues to grow every week.
Kree sang Don't Play that Song by Aretha Franklin and even got props from the Queen of Soul herself. Kree's voice was strong in this, and she just proves every week how much she wants to be here. Randy told her that she is here to stay in this competition. Keith loved that she sounded like herself but sang an Aretha song. Nicki called Kree a "Queen".
Janelle sang You Keep Me Hangin' On by The Supremes-- I absolutely loved the way she reinvented this piece. She breathed new life into, and made it sound like something we could hear on country or pop radio today. Mariah thought that the performance was Janelle at her finest. Keith loved her fearlessness and the arrangement. Nicki didn't like it very much and thought it wasn't like it normally was. Randy felt quite the opposite and thought it was one of Janelle's best performances on the show.
Burnell, my honorable mention of the week, sang My Cherie Amor by Stevie Wonder-- Beautifully phrased and always original, Burnell leads not follows with each song choice and performance. It's not what he sings, but how he sings it.
The rest of the story: Love Lazaro, but sooner or later, the votes are going to catch up to him and not be enough to keep pushing him through and allowing him more chances in the competition. He sang For Once in my Life, but it wasn't believable.
Candice played it safer than I like. She sang I Heard it Through the Grapevine which was rather predictable, but what wasn't was the rock twist she put on the song. It wasn't her. She remains one of the strongest contestants though.
Poor Devin was sacrificed this week after turning in his best performance to date with Tracks of my Tears. When you look at the entire picture, it was probably right for him to go this week. If you're looking at contestants in terms of improvement, then he didn't deserve to go because he has consistently improved. He took criticism well, and it wasn't always pretty. Overall, Lazaro probably should have gone home.
Angie sang Shop Around; this was super strange. It was not Angie's style. Luckily, she's stronger than a number of contestants and this performance wasn't her last, but she needs to forget about everyone in her ear telling her to do something different. People like Angie because of who she is, and that should never be compromised. She needs to take a cue from Burnell and remember to be herself at all times.
That's my take, and with Devin gone, we're down to seven, and only two of those seven are guys. I also wanted to comment on Nicki's comments on Twitter after Devin was voted off. This article says it all; read away! Nicki is the one who needs to be gracious and grow up, none of the other judges are acting like this, and it's all a testament to her tastelessness and tackiness. It's so cheap of her to take shots at the contestants, and I get critiquing them, but embarrassing them? Nicki is purposely not using the save because Devin is a male; it's just not right. And when exactly did the young man not act gracious? When Nicki chided him on national TV? Also, Nicki's hatred for Mariah Carey is reflecting onto the contestants and that's wrong too; Nicki do your job and save the hate for later. I want Devin to succeed as a result of her hate because at 30, she just doesn't act it. I definitely do not want to see her on Idol next year.
The top three performances of the night for me were Amber, Kree, and Janelle in that order with Burnell coming a close fourth.
Amber sang Lately by Stevie Wonder-- She was the only contestant of the night to receive a standing ovation from the judges. Her vocal was honestly in a class by itself. I think so much has been made of Candice throughout this competition, and everyone has kind of forgotten about Amber. To me, she has a voice like Whitney Houston. Mariah called it a tour de force. Keith told her that she sang it and felt it beautifully. Nicki told her that her vocals are unmatched. Randy said she was the best of the night and continues to grow every week.
Kree sang Don't Play that Song by Aretha Franklin and even got props from the Queen of Soul herself. Kree's voice was strong in this, and she just proves every week how much she wants to be here. Randy told her that she is here to stay in this competition. Keith loved that she sounded like herself but sang an Aretha song. Nicki called Kree a "Queen".
Janelle sang You Keep Me Hangin' On by The Supremes-- I absolutely loved the way she reinvented this piece. She breathed new life into, and made it sound like something we could hear on country or pop radio today. Mariah thought that the performance was Janelle at her finest. Keith loved her fearlessness and the arrangement. Nicki didn't like it very much and thought it wasn't like it normally was. Randy felt quite the opposite and thought it was one of Janelle's best performances on the show.
Burnell, my honorable mention of the week, sang My Cherie Amor by Stevie Wonder-- Beautifully phrased and always original, Burnell leads not follows with each song choice and performance. It's not what he sings, but how he sings it.
The rest of the story: Love Lazaro, but sooner or later, the votes are going to catch up to him and not be enough to keep pushing him through and allowing him more chances in the competition. He sang For Once in my Life, but it wasn't believable.
Candice played it safer than I like. She sang I Heard it Through the Grapevine which was rather predictable, but what wasn't was the rock twist she put on the song. It wasn't her. She remains one of the strongest contestants though.
Poor Devin was sacrificed this week after turning in his best performance to date with Tracks of my Tears. When you look at the entire picture, it was probably right for him to go this week. If you're looking at contestants in terms of improvement, then he didn't deserve to go because he has consistently improved. He took criticism well, and it wasn't always pretty. Overall, Lazaro probably should have gone home.
Angie sang Shop Around; this was super strange. It was not Angie's style. Luckily, she's stronger than a number of contestants and this performance wasn't her last, but she needs to forget about everyone in her ear telling her to do something different. People like Angie because of who she is, and that should never be compromised. She needs to take a cue from Burnell and remember to be herself at all times.
That's my take, and with Devin gone, we're down to seven, and only two of those seven are guys. I also wanted to comment on Nicki's comments on Twitter after Devin was voted off. This article says it all; read away! Nicki is the one who needs to be gracious and grow up, none of the other judges are acting like this, and it's all a testament to her tastelessness and tackiness. It's so cheap of her to take shots at the contestants, and I get critiquing them, but embarrassing them? Nicki is purposely not using the save because Devin is a male; it's just not right. And when exactly did the young man not act gracious? When Nicki chided him on national TV? Also, Nicki's hatred for Mariah Carey is reflecting onto the contestants and that's wrong too; Nicki do your job and save the hate for later. I want Devin to succeed as a result of her hate because at 30, she just doesn't act it. I definitely do not want to see her on Idol next year.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
American Idol: Season 12-- 10 of the Men Sing, Five Go Home
It was another one of those nights, except tonight it was ten of the men, some contestants chose songs that were completely unrecognizable and thus they rendered themselves unmemorable as well. Tonight was also the same as last night in that I agreed with four out of the five choices as to who should move on in this competition. I'd like to argue that Johnny Keyser did not deserve to get sent home. Devin Velez shouldn't have gone through, the song choice, Listen by Beyonce, was questionable at best, and the vocal was not really that impressive. Keyser is someone I had been watching since Idol Season 11, he's someone that I had in my top ten this year. I think he's grown immeasurably in that one year, perhaps what Velez needs now.
Who Just Didn't Do it For Me--
JDA (pronounced Jada) sang Rumor Has It by Adele-- Okay, okay, I'll give him the performance factor but the vocals just weren't there.
Kevin Harris sang Everything I Do I Do it For You by Bryan Adams-- I actually felt his sincerity as a person in this performance, but for some reason, the vocal sat flat. I also didn't like the ending, I found it over the top and abrupt. Randy found this performance boring as well as several other performances tonight which I completely agree with. I don't quite understand what was going on, but little really moved me.
Chris Watson sang Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding-- I'll admit that Chris has good looks to go along with the good voice, but this song choice just didn't make sense. I was thrown off by the outfit with the song; it just didn't go together. It seemed very strange. Mariah didn't think it was his best performance but felt his charisma; I felt it too, maybe a wild card winner along with Johnny Keyser?
Jimmy Smith sang Raining on Sunday by Keith Urban-- I think I saw and heard what Mariah was talking about when she said there's something special about Jimmy. Unfortunately, tonight, when there were a few standouts, this just wasn't enough. Nicki and Randy found it boring, and I can't help but agree.
Who Should Have Gone Home?
Sorry Devin Velez, you weren't terrible, but personal preference, Johnny was better. Unless the next group of ten men is terrible, you'll be leaving us shortly. Randy thought it was amazing...... that statement is slightly exaggerated.
Who Stayed?
Paul Jolley sang Tonight I Wanna Cry by Keith Urban-- No offense to Keith, but I didn't think this was the best song for Paul. I actually agree with what Jimmy Iovine said, great singer, wrong song. Something Keith said that was really great was that Paul should not underestimate the power of his voice.
Curtis Finch Jr. sang Superstar by Luther Vandross-- Curtis has a great voice, he's definitely a gospel style singer, but I agree with the judges, he has to be careful not to play it too old. He's only 25, and he reads 40. Randy is right though, so far his voice is unparalleled in this competition.
Elijah Liu sang Talking to the Moon by Bruno Mars-- I really like this young man, at the age of 18, he is exactly what he should be right now. As Keith said, he is relevant and that was the perfect song for him to sing. The combination of his voice and tone is amazing. Nicki called him a super duper star and said she loves him, and that his voice is beautiful. I feel like we'll be seeing him in the top ten.
Charlie Askew is another contestant who I think is going to go far in this competition, and he sang Rocket Man by Elton John-- I really had my doubts on this one because this could have been a big mess, but it was anything but. Charlie was really nervous, and he had absolutely no reason to be, this was perfection. Keith Urban described Charlie is: If Freddie Mercury had a love child at Woodstock. Nicki said that his awkwardness excites her and he is a rock star. Mariah loved the song choice. I think this is another young man top ten bound.
Who Didn't Deserve to Go?
Johnny Keyser sang I Won't Give Up by Jason Mraz-- Keith said the performance had a definite effortlessness about it; his voice did too. Nicki felt that he looked sexy and came out relaxed. Mariah said she loves how committed he is to music and hopes that he is around for a while. Well all I have to say is, unless you guys plan on bringing him back for some kind of wild card that's up your sleeve, he won't be around for a while.
What did all of you think? Was this the right five to move forward?
Staying: Charlie Askew, Curtis Finch Jr., Elijah Liu, Paul Jolley, Devin Velez
Who Just Didn't Do it For Me--
JDA (pronounced Jada) sang Rumor Has It by Adele-- Okay, okay, I'll give him the performance factor but the vocals just weren't there.
Kevin Harris sang Everything I Do I Do it For You by Bryan Adams-- I actually felt his sincerity as a person in this performance, but for some reason, the vocal sat flat. I also didn't like the ending, I found it over the top and abrupt. Randy found this performance boring as well as several other performances tonight which I completely agree with. I don't quite understand what was going on, but little really moved me.
Chris Watson sang Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding-- I'll admit that Chris has good looks to go along with the good voice, but this song choice just didn't make sense. I was thrown off by the outfit with the song; it just didn't go together. It seemed very strange. Mariah didn't think it was his best performance but felt his charisma; I felt it too, maybe a wild card winner along with Johnny Keyser?
Jimmy Smith sang Raining on Sunday by Keith Urban-- I think I saw and heard what Mariah was talking about when she said there's something special about Jimmy. Unfortunately, tonight, when there were a few standouts, this just wasn't enough. Nicki and Randy found it boring, and I can't help but agree.
Who Should Have Gone Home?
Sorry Devin Velez, you weren't terrible, but personal preference, Johnny was better. Unless the next group of ten men is terrible, you'll be leaving us shortly. Randy thought it was amazing...... that statement is slightly exaggerated.
Who Stayed?
Paul Jolley sang Tonight I Wanna Cry by Keith Urban-- No offense to Keith, but I didn't think this was the best song for Paul. I actually agree with what Jimmy Iovine said, great singer, wrong song. Something Keith said that was really great was that Paul should not underestimate the power of his voice.
Curtis Finch Jr. sang Superstar by Luther Vandross-- Curtis has a great voice, he's definitely a gospel style singer, but I agree with the judges, he has to be careful not to play it too old. He's only 25, and he reads 40. Randy is right though, so far his voice is unparalleled in this competition.
Elijah Liu sang Talking to the Moon by Bruno Mars-- I really like this young man, at the age of 18, he is exactly what he should be right now. As Keith said, he is relevant and that was the perfect song for him to sing. The combination of his voice and tone is amazing. Nicki called him a super duper star and said she loves him, and that his voice is beautiful. I feel like we'll be seeing him in the top ten.
Charlie Askew is another contestant who I think is going to go far in this competition, and he sang Rocket Man by Elton John-- I really had my doubts on this one because this could have been a big mess, but it was anything but. Charlie was really nervous, and he had absolutely no reason to be, this was perfection. Keith Urban described Charlie is: If Freddie Mercury had a love child at Woodstock. Nicki said that his awkwardness excites her and he is a rock star. Mariah loved the song choice. I think this is another young man top ten bound.
Who Didn't Deserve to Go?
Johnny Keyser sang I Won't Give Up by Jason Mraz-- Keith said the performance had a definite effortlessness about it; his voice did too. Nicki felt that he looked sexy and came out relaxed. Mariah said she loves how committed he is to music and hopes that he is around for a while. Well all I have to say is, unless you guys plan on bringing him back for some kind of wild card that's up your sleeve, he won't be around for a while.
What did all of you think? Was this the right five to move forward?
Staying: Charlie Askew, Curtis Finch Jr., Elijah Liu, Paul Jolley, Devin Velez
American Idol: Season 12, Ten Ladies Sing-- Five Go Home
They tried something different on American Idol last night. At the beginning of the night, a total of 40 contestants remained in the competition: 20 women and 20 men vying for the title of American Idol. Last night, 10 of the women sang for their lives on the show with five of them being sent home before the night ended.
For the most part, I agree with the decisions that the judges made. I called four out of the five ladies moving on correctly. Only one was questionable, not to say that I don't think that she had talent. The last spot for me really came down to personal preference, and looking back on it now, I think the judges made the right call saving Teena Torres and sending Isabelle home.
The other four were a much easier call-- Bree Harrison, a clear standout for the night, Adriana Latonio, the mini powerhouse, Amber Holcomb, who could be a dark horse in this competition, and last but not least, judge's fave Angela Miller who is already singing and writing her own music.
Overall, the night was filled with lots of songs that I didn't know. The ladies did not do a good job of making sure that their song choices related to the audience. I understand that maybe they wanted to impress the judges, but you also want the public to start thinking about supporting you should you advance to the next round.
Songs I had no idea about:
Jenny Beth Willis-- Heaven, Heartache, and The Power of Love by Trisha Yearwood-- This was a stiff performance. I think her inexperience really showed through tonight, and the 17 year old was one of the ones sent home.
Teena Torres-- Soulmate by Natasha Bedingfield-- Although her entire performance complete with hair and outfit was a complete throwback to the 1980's, I think Teena has potential. I actually hope she doesn't lose that tone in her voice, I just want her to seriously think about doing something with her hair and updating her wardrobe. She advanced by the skin of her teeth.
Brandy Hotard-- I Don't Love You Anymore by Travis Tritt-- Sweet young woman, but her performance lacked credibility. I also think it was too heavy of a song for a night like this. This is the first time a lot of us are seeing her and it was all just a bit much.
Two eliminated ladies sang very well known songs, but ruined them by changing them up too much.
Shubba Vedula sang Born This Way by Lady Gaga, and I loved how she started the performance out at the piano. I really thought it was going to go somewhere, and it did, but not where I wanted it to go. She tried to do too much in a few minutes. She should have stayed at the piano, sang her heart and soul out and nailed it.
Kamaria Ousley sang Mr. Know it All by Kelly Clarkson, and it was a train wreck from start to finish. I actually feel badly for this girl because she has the resume to back up the talent, but this performance certainly didn't prove it. It was probably the worst performance of the night.
Now for the goodies!
Kree Harrison did a soul stirring rendition of Up to the Mountain by Patti Griffin; she was my favorite performer of the night. Her performance was so heartfelt and sincere. Nicki was so right when she said that the other ladies in this competition should be scared because this young woman is a force. Mariah Carey, of all people out there, said that Kree sang the hell out of that song. I cannot wait to see her in the Top 10 because if she isn't there, than there's something wrong with the public.
Adriana Latonio has tons of potential, especially considering that she is only 17. She's chock full of maturity, and she proved that by singing Ain't No Way by Aretha Franklin with lots of emotion. My one criticism is that she needs to make sure she isn't performing too "pageanty"; coming off too polished can almost hurt you in a way. The best singers, take Whitney Houston for example, were able to dirty up the performance with their emotion. It's almost like she really needs to get down into the song.
Angela Miller sang Nobody's Perfect by Jessie J., and I love Angela but I don't think this was the song to best showcase her actual abilities. I think anyone who saw her performance last week is still coming down from that, because she is so talented that regardless of the outcome of this competition, she's going to be a star. She's going to have musicians knocking on her door asking her to write and sing songs for them.
Amber Holcomb just impressed the heck out of me taking on My Funny Valentine. The soul was just so present, and she has what Adriana lacks, she got down into the performance, she really felt the lyrics. What was beautiful about this was that blend of toughness and vulnerability.
The semifinalist that could have been:
Isabelle was the girl who finished last night in that tough fifth or sixth place position. She sang God Bless the Child which was a great song choice, I think she just didn't make much of a mark though. She wasn't different enough or unique enough for the judges to be like, "we have originality right here". It's too bad because while her performance wasn't bad, it didn't stand out as phenomenal either.
For the most part, I agree with the decisions that the judges made. I called four out of the five ladies moving on correctly. Only one was questionable, not to say that I don't think that she had talent. The last spot for me really came down to personal preference, and looking back on it now, I think the judges made the right call saving Teena Torres and sending Isabelle home.
The other four were a much easier call-- Bree Harrison, a clear standout for the night, Adriana Latonio, the mini powerhouse, Amber Holcomb, who could be a dark horse in this competition, and last but not least, judge's fave Angela Miller who is already singing and writing her own music.
Overall, the night was filled with lots of songs that I didn't know. The ladies did not do a good job of making sure that their song choices related to the audience. I understand that maybe they wanted to impress the judges, but you also want the public to start thinking about supporting you should you advance to the next round.
Songs I had no idea about:
Jenny Beth Willis-- Heaven, Heartache, and The Power of Love by Trisha Yearwood-- This was a stiff performance. I think her inexperience really showed through tonight, and the 17 year old was one of the ones sent home.
Teena Torres-- Soulmate by Natasha Bedingfield-- Although her entire performance complete with hair and outfit was a complete throwback to the 1980's, I think Teena has potential. I actually hope she doesn't lose that tone in her voice, I just want her to seriously think about doing something with her hair and updating her wardrobe. She advanced by the skin of her teeth.
Brandy Hotard-- I Don't Love You Anymore by Travis Tritt-- Sweet young woman, but her performance lacked credibility. I also think it was too heavy of a song for a night like this. This is the first time a lot of us are seeing her and it was all just a bit much.
Two eliminated ladies sang very well known songs, but ruined them by changing them up too much.
Shubba Vedula sang Born This Way by Lady Gaga, and I loved how she started the performance out at the piano. I really thought it was going to go somewhere, and it did, but not where I wanted it to go. She tried to do too much in a few minutes. She should have stayed at the piano, sang her heart and soul out and nailed it.
Kamaria Ousley sang Mr. Know it All by Kelly Clarkson, and it was a train wreck from start to finish. I actually feel badly for this girl because she has the resume to back up the talent, but this performance certainly didn't prove it. It was probably the worst performance of the night.
Now for the goodies!
Kree Harrison did a soul stirring rendition of Up to the Mountain by Patti Griffin; she was my favorite performer of the night. Her performance was so heartfelt and sincere. Nicki was so right when she said that the other ladies in this competition should be scared because this young woman is a force. Mariah Carey, of all people out there, said that Kree sang the hell out of that song. I cannot wait to see her in the Top 10 because if she isn't there, than there's something wrong with the public.
Adriana Latonio has tons of potential, especially considering that she is only 17. She's chock full of maturity, and she proved that by singing Ain't No Way by Aretha Franklin with lots of emotion. My one criticism is that she needs to make sure she isn't performing too "pageanty"; coming off too polished can almost hurt you in a way. The best singers, take Whitney Houston for example, were able to dirty up the performance with their emotion. It's almost like she really needs to get down into the song.
Angela Miller sang Nobody's Perfect by Jessie J., and I love Angela but I don't think this was the song to best showcase her actual abilities. I think anyone who saw her performance last week is still coming down from that, because she is so talented that regardless of the outcome of this competition, she's going to be a star. She's going to have musicians knocking on her door asking her to write and sing songs for them.
Amber Holcomb just impressed the heck out of me taking on My Funny Valentine. The soul was just so present, and she has what Adriana lacks, she got down into the performance, she really felt the lyrics. What was beautiful about this was that blend of toughness and vulnerability.
The semifinalist that could have been:
Isabelle was the girl who finished last night in that tough fifth or sixth place position. She sang God Bless the Child which was a great song choice, I think she just didn't make much of a mark though. She wasn't different enough or unique enough for the judges to be like, "we have originality right here". It's too bad because while her performance wasn't bad, it didn't stand out as phenomenal either.
Monday, February 6, 2012
My Top Songs of 2011: Why Did I Choose Them, Part 3
Released as the lead single from their album Own the Night and co-written by Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott, Dave Haywood, Dallas Davidson, Just a Kiss actually chronicles the beginning of Lady Antebellum band mate Hillary Scott's relationship with her now husband, Chris Tyrrell. The trio says that they wrote this song with ease and it reaffirmed their belief that together they just click. Just a Kiss was not only huge on country charts but on the pop charts as well, and based on this trio's climbing stars, it doesn't appear they are slowing down.
Charts:
#7 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard)
#4 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Country Songs (Billboard)
#21 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
Just a kiss on your lips in the moonlight
Just a touch of the fire burning so bright
No, I don't wanna mess this thing up
I don't wanna push too far
Just a shot in the dark that you just might
Be the one I've been waiting for my whole life
So baby, I'm alright,
Love on Top off Beyonce's album 4 has all the elements of the ultimate 80s song, the beat, the lyrics, the tempo and key changes. What made the song even more notable is that it's the song she performed on the MTV VMA awards when she announced that she and husband Jay Z were with child. It was the big smile on her face, the sparkle in her eyes, and the sheer happiness in her voice that drew so much interest to the song. Knowles said of her inspiration of the song:
"When I played Etta James it was the most I'd learned about myself until the recording of this album. When I went into the studio I used the same passion, honesty, and approach with my vocals I channeled as Etta James. It does not sound like the vocals on my past albums. It's a lot rawer. It comes from a deep place".
Well said Bey!
Charts:
#20 US Billboard Hot 100
#11 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs
Fave line in the song:
You're the one that I love.
Baby you're the one that I need.
You're the only one I see.
Baby, baby, it's you.
You're the one that gives your all.
You're the one I always call.
When I need you everything stops.
Finally you put my love on top.
If there's any song that was fully needed in terms of promoting patriotism in our country when we desperately needed it, it was the song Made in America sung by country god Toby Keith. Keith co wrote the song with Bobby Pinson and General Hospital star Scott Reeves. The story goes that Keith started writing the song but almost left it off his album because of the high number of patriotic songs already on the album, but Reeves and Pinson had a conversation which revolved around supporting the country by buying products made in the United States and they brought what they had written to Keith who combined it with what he had, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Charts:
#1 US Country Songs (Billboard)
#40 US Billboard Hot 100
Fave line from the song:
He's got the red, white, and blue flyin' high on the farm
Semper fi tattooed on his left arm
Spends a little more at the store for a tag in the back that says U.S.A.
Won't buy nothin' that he can't fix,
With WD40 and a Craftsman wrench
He ain't prejudice he's just, made in America
Marry the Night is my favorite Lady Gaga song. Gaga explained that the main inspiration behind the song was singer Whitney Houston and also added: "This song is about me going back to New York. I wrote this about the courage it took for me to say 'I hate Hollywood, I just wanna live in Brooklyn and make music'". Her courage to take chances in all facets of her life is inspiring and it's something I can feel when I listen to her music. She's special, and this song is just more evidence of that.
Charts:
#29 US Billboard Hot 100
#27 US Adult Pop Songs
#1 US Hot Dance Club Songs
#14 US Pop Songs
Fave line from the song:
I'm gonna marry the night,
I won't give up on my life,
I'm a warrior queen,
Live passionately, tonight.
I often wonder when I watch the music video for Moment 4 Life by Nicki Minaj and Drake how real the chemistry is that is portrayed between them on screen. The song is clearly a love song, it's about having absolutely everything you want in life, turning your moment into your moment for life. Then it won't just be a moment, it will be forever. Nicki says, "Moment 4 Life : is about 2 kids that grew up on the same block. They shared their dreams of making it as rappers. They laughed together, they cried together. One day they realize that their dreams have come to fruition. Though they know all things come to an end, they celebrate. They wish that they could have this moment 4 Life."
Charts:
#13 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#18 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
This is my moment
I waited all my
Life, I can tell it's time
Drifting away, I'm
One with the sunsets
I have become alive
I wish that I could have this moment
For life, for life, for life
Cause in this moment I just feel so
Alive, alive, alive
Moves Like Jagger was that song that everyone couldn't help but sing along to in 2011. Fresh off his win on season one of The Voice, Adam Levine enlisted fellow judge Christina Aguilera to collaborate with him and Maroon 5 on the upbeat single. The song was a risk for Maroon 5 who hasn't released a song like that one before, and Levine says it was exciting to do something different. I would even venture to say that it's the best single that has come from either of them in some time now. You could even go as far as saying that these two make beautiful music together.
Charts:
#1 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#9 US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard)
#3 US Latin Pop Songs (Billboard)
#8 US Latin Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#10 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
I Don't Need To Try To Control You
Look Into My Eyes and I'll Own You
With The Moves Like Jagger
I've Got The Moves Like Jagger
I've Got The Moves Like Jagger
Proving why she was the first ever American Idol, Kelly Clarkson went back to her roots with her first single off her fifth studio album Stronger. Mr. Know it All silenced critics of Clarkson who questioned her vocal abilities and just about everything else (i.e. Clarkson's weight, her almost always single status, which Clarkson targeted in her video for the song). She actually knocked the National Anthem out of the park this past weekend at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis in front of an event that draws one of the biggest audiences: The Super Bowl. To boot, Clarkson sang live. If that's not a wow in this business, I don't know what would be. Clarkson described Mr. Know it All as "super sassy", and the message of the song is also great, no one likes to have people in their lives who think they know everything about everything. We all have some of those in our lives.
Charts:
#10 US Billboard Hot 100
#5 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard)
#1 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#11 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
You ain't got the right to tell me
When and where to go, no right to tell me
Acting like you own me lately
Yeah baby you don't know a thing about me
You don't know a thing about me
2011 was somewhat of a comeback year for Jennifer Lopez, actually it may have been the most successful year of her career. Being a judge on American Idol may have been just the launching point she needed to show her stuff and prove that she's not down and out. On The Floor featuring Puerto Rican rapper Pitbull, who also had a successful year, was Lopez doing what Lopez does best, full out dance music.
Charts:
#3 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard)
#5 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#2 US Latin Songs (Billboard)
Spanish version: "Ven a Bailar"
#1 US Latin Pop Songs (Billboard)
Spanish version: "Ven a Bailar"
Fave line from the song:
Dance the night away
Live your life, and stay young on the floor
Dance the night way
Grab somebody drink a little more
Lalalalalalalalalalalalalala
Tonight we gon’ be it on the floor
Who cites their musical influences as Tupac, The Black Eyed Peas, James Brown, Michael Jackson, The Beatles, and Led Zepplin? Well it's none other than LMFAO; this electro duo had about as hot a year as you can get. Party Rock Anthem was everywhere, and I mean that, if you haven't heard this song then most likely you spent 2011 under a rock somewhere. It was featured on Glee, So You Think You Can Dance, Gossip Girl, American Dad!, Saturday Night Live, and Parks and Recreation just to drop some names. Not only was Party Rock Anthem a number one single on the Pop Charts but it was the number one single of the year.
Charts:
#1 US Billboard Hot 100
#15 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#2 US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard)
#79 US R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#6 US Latin Songs (Billboard)
#6 US Latin Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#4 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
Everyday I'm shufflin'
Shufflin', shufflin'
Adele has been anointed this year's Grammy darling no matter what happens, and rightfully so, her album 21 was the biggest selling album of 2011! It's still on the charts today and destined to break more records. When she had to undergo surgery on her vocal chords we all waited with baited breath; I think the world waited with baited breath actually. Grammy night 2012 will be the first night she sings in public since her surgery. More than one person made Rolling in the Deep their personal anthem; I cannot tell you how many cell phone ring tones I heard set to that very song. Rolling in the Deep in also a message to every guy out there who may potentially date Adele, be prepared if you date her, you may end up the subject in a killer break up song.
Charts:
#1 US Billboard Hot 100
#61 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard)
#1 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#15 US Rock Songs (Billboard)
#14 US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard)
#16 US Latin Pop Songs (Billboard)
#43 US Latin Songs (Billboard)
#21 US Alternative Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
The scars of your love remind me of us
They keep me thinking that we almost had it all
The scars of your love, they leave me breathless
I can't help feeling
We could have it all
(You're gonna wish you never had met me)
Rolling in the deep
(Tears are gonna fall, rolling in the deep)
You had my heart inside your hand
(You're gonna wish you never had met me)
And you played it, to the beat
(Tears are gonna fall, rolling in the deep)
Charts:
#7 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard)
#4 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Country Songs (Billboard)
#21 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
Just a kiss on your lips in the moonlight
Just a touch of the fire burning so bright
No, I don't wanna mess this thing up
I don't wanna push too far
Just a shot in the dark that you just might
Be the one I've been waiting for my whole life
So baby, I'm alright,
Love on Top off Beyonce's album 4 has all the elements of the ultimate 80s song, the beat, the lyrics, the tempo and key changes. What made the song even more notable is that it's the song she performed on the MTV VMA awards when she announced that she and husband Jay Z were with child. It was the big smile on her face, the sparkle in her eyes, and the sheer happiness in her voice that drew so much interest to the song. Knowles said of her inspiration of the song:
"When I played Etta James it was the most I'd learned about myself until the recording of this album. When I went into the studio I used the same passion, honesty, and approach with my vocals I channeled as Etta James. It does not sound like the vocals on my past albums. It's a lot rawer. It comes from a deep place".
Well said Bey!
Charts:
#20 US Billboard Hot 100
#11 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs
Fave line in the song:
You're the one that I love.
Baby you're the one that I need.
You're the only one I see.
Baby, baby, it's you.
You're the one that gives your all.
You're the one I always call.
When I need you everything stops.
Finally you put my love on top.
If there's any song that was fully needed in terms of promoting patriotism in our country when we desperately needed it, it was the song Made in America sung by country god Toby Keith. Keith co wrote the song with Bobby Pinson and General Hospital star Scott Reeves. The story goes that Keith started writing the song but almost left it off his album because of the high number of patriotic songs already on the album, but Reeves and Pinson had a conversation which revolved around supporting the country by buying products made in the United States and they brought what they had written to Keith who combined it with what he had, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Charts:
#1 US Country Songs (Billboard)
#40 US Billboard Hot 100
Fave line from the song:
He's got the red, white, and blue flyin' high on the farm
Semper fi tattooed on his left arm
Spends a little more at the store for a tag in the back that says U.S.A.
Won't buy nothin' that he can't fix,
With WD40 and a Craftsman wrench
He ain't prejudice he's just, made in America
Marry the Night is my favorite Lady Gaga song. Gaga explained that the main inspiration behind the song was singer Whitney Houston and also added: "This song is about me going back to New York. I wrote this about the courage it took for me to say 'I hate Hollywood, I just wanna live in Brooklyn and make music'". Her courage to take chances in all facets of her life is inspiring and it's something I can feel when I listen to her music. She's special, and this song is just more evidence of that.
Charts:
#29 US Billboard Hot 100
#27 US Adult Pop Songs
#1 US Hot Dance Club Songs
#14 US Pop Songs
Fave line from the song:
I'm gonna marry the night,
I won't give up on my life,
I'm a warrior queen,
Live passionately, tonight.
I often wonder when I watch the music video for Moment 4 Life by Nicki Minaj and Drake how real the chemistry is that is portrayed between them on screen. The song is clearly a love song, it's about having absolutely everything you want in life, turning your moment into your moment for life. Then it won't just be a moment, it will be forever. Nicki says, "Moment 4 Life : is about 2 kids that grew up on the same block. They shared their dreams of making it as rappers. They laughed together, they cried together. One day they realize that their dreams have come to fruition. Though they know all things come to an end, they celebrate. They wish that they could have this moment 4 Life."
Charts:
#13 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#18 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
This is my moment
I waited all my
Life, I can tell it's time
Drifting away, I'm
One with the sunsets
I have become alive
I wish that I could have this moment
For life, for life, for life
Cause in this moment I just feel so
Alive, alive, alive
Moves Like Jagger was that song that everyone couldn't help but sing along to in 2011. Fresh off his win on season one of The Voice, Adam Levine enlisted fellow judge Christina Aguilera to collaborate with him and Maroon 5 on the upbeat single. The song was a risk for Maroon 5 who hasn't released a song like that one before, and Levine says it was exciting to do something different. I would even venture to say that it's the best single that has come from either of them in some time now. You could even go as far as saying that these two make beautiful music together.
Charts:
#1 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#9 US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard)
#3 US Latin Pop Songs (Billboard)
#8 US Latin Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#10 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
I Don't Need To Try To Control You
Look Into My Eyes and I'll Own You
With The Moves Like Jagger
I've Got The Moves Like Jagger
I've Got The Moves Like Jagger
Proving why she was the first ever American Idol, Kelly Clarkson went back to her roots with her first single off her fifth studio album Stronger. Mr. Know it All silenced critics of Clarkson who questioned her vocal abilities and just about everything else (i.e. Clarkson's weight, her almost always single status, which Clarkson targeted in her video for the song). She actually knocked the National Anthem out of the park this past weekend at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis in front of an event that draws one of the biggest audiences: The Super Bowl. To boot, Clarkson sang live. If that's not a wow in this business, I don't know what would be. Clarkson described Mr. Know it All as "super sassy", and the message of the song is also great, no one likes to have people in their lives who think they know everything about everything. We all have some of those in our lives.
Charts:
#10 US Billboard Hot 100
#5 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard)
#1 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#11 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
You ain't got the right to tell me
When and where to go, no right to tell me
Acting like you own me lately
Yeah baby you don't know a thing about me
You don't know a thing about me
2011 was somewhat of a comeback year for Jennifer Lopez, actually it may have been the most successful year of her career. Being a judge on American Idol may have been just the launching point she needed to show her stuff and prove that she's not down and out. On The Floor featuring Puerto Rican rapper Pitbull, who also had a successful year, was Lopez doing what Lopez does best, full out dance music.
Charts:
#3 US Billboard Hot 100
#1 US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard)
#5 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#2 US Latin Songs (Billboard)
Spanish version: "Ven a Bailar"
#1 US Latin Pop Songs (Billboard)
Spanish version: "Ven a Bailar"
Fave line from the song:
Dance the night away
Live your life, and stay young on the floor
Dance the night way
Grab somebody drink a little more
Lalalalalalalalalalalalalala
Tonight we gon’ be it on the floor
Who cites their musical influences as Tupac, The Black Eyed Peas, James Brown, Michael Jackson, The Beatles, and Led Zepplin? Well it's none other than LMFAO; this electro duo had about as hot a year as you can get. Party Rock Anthem was everywhere, and I mean that, if you haven't heard this song then most likely you spent 2011 under a rock somewhere. It was featured on Glee, So You Think You Can Dance, Gossip Girl, American Dad!, Saturday Night Live, and Parks and Recreation just to drop some names. Not only was Party Rock Anthem a number one single on the Pop Charts but it was the number one single of the year.
Charts:
#1 US Billboard Hot 100
#15 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#2 US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard)
#79 US R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#6 US Latin Songs (Billboard)
#6 US Latin Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#4 US Rap Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
Everyday I'm shufflin'
Shufflin', shufflin'
Adele has been anointed this year's Grammy darling no matter what happens, and rightfully so, her album 21 was the biggest selling album of 2011! It's still on the charts today and destined to break more records. When she had to undergo surgery on her vocal chords we all waited with baited breath; I think the world waited with baited breath actually. Grammy night 2012 will be the first night she sings in public since her surgery. More than one person made Rolling in the Deep their personal anthem; I cannot tell you how many cell phone ring tones I heard set to that very song. Rolling in the Deep in also a message to every guy out there who may potentially date Adele, be prepared if you date her, you may end up the subject in a killer break up song.
Charts:
#1 US Billboard Hot 100
#61 US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Pop Songs (Billboard)
#1 US Adult Contemporary (Billboard)
#1 US Adult Pop Songs (Billboard)
#15 US Rock Songs (Billboard)
#14 US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard)
#16 US Latin Pop Songs (Billboard)
#43 US Latin Songs (Billboard)
#21 US Alternative Songs (Billboard)
Fave line from the song:
The scars of your love remind me of us
They keep me thinking that we almost had it all
The scars of your love, they leave me breathless
I can't help feeling
We could have it all
(You're gonna wish you never had met me)
Rolling in the deep
(Tears are gonna fall, rolling in the deep)
You had my heart inside your hand
(You're gonna wish you never had met me)
And you played it, to the beat
(Tears are gonna fall, rolling in the deep)
Saturday, January 7, 2012
My Top Songs of 2011
For the past few years I have been creating a list of my favorite and most memorable songs of the past year. I am a bit late this year in creating that list, or rather, in sharing it with you. As I mentioned before, this past year was a real struggle for me, and music was there for me always. Music gave me great joy, it made me smile, it comforted me when I was sad or contemplating my next step.
Overall, this was the year of the Ladies, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, Kelly Clarkson, and Adele all appear on this list more than once.
Some newcomers had breakout years, Hot Chelle Rae, Breathe Carolina, The Band Perry, J. Cole, and LMFAO; they burst onto the scene and proved to be contenders.
Here's the list, and check back as I tell you why I chose the songs I chose (they're in alphabetical order):
All of the Lights-- Kanye West featuring Rihanna
Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not-- Thompson Square
Blackout-- Breathe Carolina
Call Your Girlfriend-- Robyn
Cheers (Drink to That)-- Rihanna
Colder Weather-- Zac Brown Band
Dirt Road Anthem-- Jason Aldean
Don't Wanna Go Home-- Jason Derulo
Don't You Wanna Stay-- Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson
The Edge of Glory-- Lady Gaga
Grenade-- Bruno Mars
Headlines-- Drake
Heart Like Mine-- Miranda Lambert
Honey Bee-- Blake Shelton
How to Love-- Lil Wayne
I Need a Doctor-- Eminem, Dr. Dre, and Skyler Grey
I Wanna Go-- Britney Spears
I'm On One-- DJ Khaled, Drake, Rick Ross, and Lil Wayne
It Girl-- Jason Derulo
It Will Rain-- Bruno Mars
Just a Kiss-- Lady Antebellum
Love on Top-- Beyonce
Made in America-- Toby Keith
Marry the Night-- Lady Gaga
Moment for Life-- Nicki Minaj and Drake
Moves Like Jagger-- Maroon 5 featuring Christina Aguilera
Mr. Know it All-- Kelly Clarkson
On the Floor-- Jeniffer Lopez featuring Pitbull
Party Rock Anthem-- LMFAO
Rolling in the Deep-- Adele
She Ain't You-- Chris Brown
Someone Like You-- Adele
Super Bass-- Nicki Minaj
Til the World Ends-- Britney Spears
Tonight Tonight-- Hot Chelle Rae
We Found Love-- Rihanna featuring Calvin Harris
Without You-- David Guetta featuring Usher
Work Out-- J. Cole
You Da One-- Rihanna
You Lie-- The Band Perry
I would love to hear your thoughts.... what were your favorite songs of the year, who impressed you?
Overall, this was the year of the Ladies, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, Kelly Clarkson, and Adele all appear on this list more than once.
Some newcomers had breakout years, Hot Chelle Rae, Breathe Carolina, The Band Perry, J. Cole, and LMFAO; they burst onto the scene and proved to be contenders.
Here's the list, and check back as I tell you why I chose the songs I chose (they're in alphabetical order):
All of the Lights-- Kanye West featuring Rihanna
Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not-- Thompson Square
Blackout-- Breathe Carolina
Call Your Girlfriend-- Robyn
Cheers (Drink to That)-- Rihanna
Colder Weather-- Zac Brown Band
Dirt Road Anthem-- Jason Aldean
Don't Wanna Go Home-- Jason Derulo
Don't You Wanna Stay-- Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson
The Edge of Glory-- Lady Gaga
Grenade-- Bruno Mars
Headlines-- Drake
Heart Like Mine-- Miranda Lambert
Honey Bee-- Blake Shelton
How to Love-- Lil Wayne
I Need a Doctor-- Eminem, Dr. Dre, and Skyler Grey
I Wanna Go-- Britney Spears
I'm On One-- DJ Khaled, Drake, Rick Ross, and Lil Wayne
It Girl-- Jason Derulo
It Will Rain-- Bruno Mars
Just a Kiss-- Lady Antebellum
Love on Top-- Beyonce
Made in America-- Toby Keith
Marry the Night-- Lady Gaga
Moment for Life-- Nicki Minaj and Drake
Moves Like Jagger-- Maroon 5 featuring Christina Aguilera
Mr. Know it All-- Kelly Clarkson
On the Floor-- Jeniffer Lopez featuring Pitbull
Party Rock Anthem-- LMFAO
Rolling in the Deep-- Adele
She Ain't You-- Chris Brown
Someone Like You-- Adele
Super Bass-- Nicki Minaj
Til the World Ends-- Britney Spears
Tonight Tonight-- Hot Chelle Rae
We Found Love-- Rihanna featuring Calvin Harris
Without You-- David Guetta featuring Usher
Work Out-- J. Cole
You Da One-- Rihanna
You Lie-- The Band Perry
I would love to hear your thoughts.... what were your favorite songs of the year, who impressed you?
Monday, August 29, 2011
Beyonce's Surprise Announcement at the VMA's, oh, and The Winners!
Beyonce was glowing in an orangey-red Lanvin Fall dress with great jewelry to compliment it. With Jay-Z and Kanye West going on tour together for "Watch the Throne", will Queen Bey tour with "4" or will that time come after she gives birth?
My favorite moment at last night's VMAs came with Beyonce's public announcement that she was indeed with child. I was so happy for her, and to see the joy shared by so many of her peers was a wonderful vision. Beyonce looked radiant and rocked the stage as she always does, this time singing her new single "Love on Top" penned by Knowles herself, The Dream, and Shea Taylor. The hint came at the beginning of her performance when Beyonce told everyone to "feel the love that's growing inside of me". At the end of the performance she unbuttoned her sparkly pink jacket and she rubbed her growing belly. Goal oriented as she is, Beyonce had told reporters many times that she hoped to have a child by 30, the talented 29 year old will turn 30 on Sept. 4th.
MTV news reported that backstage Beyonce said, "I'm free!" to one of the well-wishers, indicating that she and Jay are thrilled to not have to keep such a big secret any longer. "We're all free!" she said to the group. Beyonce and a possible baby has been speculated several times by the media. She even told Cynthia McFadden earlier this year that she felt when the time really did come that she was pregnant no one would care because it had been falsely reported so many times. Beyonce is so classy though and she truly found the perfect way to make the announcement to everyone. Congratulations to Beyonce and Jay-Z!
The Winners for the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards:
Video Of the Year: Katy Perry, "Fireworks"
Video with a Message: Lady Gaga, "Born This Way"
Best New Artist Video: Tyler the Creator, "Yonkers"
Best Pop Video: Britney Spears, "Til the World Ends"
Best Rock Video: Foo Fighters, "Walk"
Best Hip Hop Video: Nicki Minaj, "Super Bass"
Best Famale Video: Lady Gaga, "Born This Way"
Best Male Video: Justin Bieber, "U Smile"
Best Collaboration Video: Katy Perry featuring Kanye West, "ET"
Best Art Direction in a Video: Adele, "Rolling in the Deep"
Best Choreography in a Video: Beyonce, "Run the World (Girls)"
Best Cinematography in a Video: Adele, "Rolling in the Deep"
Best Direction in a Video: Beastie Boys, "Make Some Noise"
Best Editing in a Video: Adele, "Rolling in the Deep"
Best Special Effects in a Video: Katy Perry featuring Kanye West, "ET"
This year was the year of the ladies at the VMA's with women winning 11 out of the 15 categories! Six women won these 11 awards: Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Adele, Britney Spears, Nicki Minaj, and Beyonce, each one has released a successful album this year or last year. It makes me extra proud because each one of them is so talented and has worked so hard for their success. Congratulations to all the nominees and all the winners! Thanks for making 2011 an unforgettable year in music.
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