Country music has had a real breakthrough year; 2011 has been a year when it has all happened.
Shania Twain, who is considered country music royalty, made a comeback, not with an album, but to the public eye after a long hiatus as a result of her divorce from Mutt Lange. Twain says the divorce was so tough that it caused her to lose a voice that so many find unforgettable. It seems though that she's moved forward and made strides just like country music has; she married in January and announced in June that in December of 2012 she will headline her own Las Vegas show at Caesar's Palace for two years.
Lots of country couples tied the knot, Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton, Kellie Pickler and Kyle Jacobs, and LeAnn Rimes and Eddie Cibrian.
Country trio, Lady Antebellum walked away from this year's Grammy Awards with Record of the Year and Song of the Year for "Need You Now" as well as three other Grammy's within country categories. This was five Grammy's for a group that most people in the country had never heard of five years ago!
This year on American Idol two young promising country singers finished in first and second place, Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina, both will release debut albums this October. They have, by all accounts, been welcomed by the country music community. This is a community that is close knit and takes pride in each and every member.
Maybe it's the state of our country, but country music has become a real comfort to so many people. Every song has a story. When listening to a country music album or radio station, you will, without a doubt, experience a range of emotions. There are songs about a loved one who left Earth too soon and songs about drinking beer and margaritas in Mexico on vacation.
Brad Paisley, the reigning Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year, even titled his new album "This is Country Music". The song "This is Country Music" details exactly what the genre is, stereotypes and all. Here are the lyrics so you can see and read exactly what I mean:
You're not supposed to say the word "cancer" in a song.
And tellin' folks Jesus is the answer can rub 'em wrong.
It ain't hip to sing about tractors, trucks, little towns, and mama, yeah that might be true.
But this is country music and we do
Do you like to drink a cold one on the weekend and get a little loud
Do you wanna say I'm sorry or I love you but you don't know how?
Do you wish somebody had the nerve to tell that stupid boss of yours
to shove it next time he yells at you?
Well this is country music and we do
So turn it on, turn it up, and sing a long
This is real; this is your life in a song
Yeah this is country music.
Are you haunted by the echo of your mother on the phone
Crying as she tells you that your brother is not coming home?
And if there's anyone that still has pride and the memory of those
that died defending the old red, white, and blue,
This is country music and we do
So turn it on, turn it up, and sing a long
This is real; this is your life in a song
Just like a road that takes you home
Yeah this is right where you belong
This is country music
This is country music
He Stopped Loving Her Today
Hello Darling
God Bless the USA
Amarillo by the Morning
Stand by your Man
Mama Drive
Take Me Home
I Walk the Line
Country Boy Can Survive
Here are a few songs that I have been hitting the repeat button on all year:
Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not-- Thompson Square
Dirt Road Anthem-- Jason Aldean
Don't You Wanna Stay-- Jason Aldean feat. Kelly Clarkson
Felt Good On My Lips-- Tim McGraw
Heart Like Mine-- Miranda Lambert
Honey Bee-- Blake Shelton
I Won't Let Go-- Rascal Flatts
Just A Kiss-- Lady Antebellum
A Little Bit Stronger-- Sara Evans
Live A Little-- Kenny Chesney
Long Hot Summer-- Keith Urban
Made in America-- Toby Keith
Mean-- Taylor Swift
My Kinda Party-- Jason Aldean
Old Alabama-- Brad Paisley with Alabama
Put You In A Song-- Keith Urban
Remind Me-- Brad Paisley feat. Carrie Underwood
Somewhere With You-- Kenny Chesney
Sparks Fly-- Taylor Swift
This-- Darius Rucker
This Is Country Music-- Brad Paisley
Tomorrow-- Chris Young
Turn On The Radio-- Reba
Voices-- Chris Young
Who Are You When I'm Not Looking-- Blake Shelton
Without You-- Keith Urban
You Lie-- The Band Perry
You can see a complete list of great country hits from 2011 right here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011_in_country_music
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
We Should All Be Grateful
Over the weekend 30 Americans were killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan; 22 of them were NAVY Seals, the best of the best. Although, I believe all 30 were the best of the best. In times like these, events like these, so many things run through my mind. Short stories about war like the book The Things They Carried, books like Dear America and Hiroshima. In addition to books, movies in recent years have made war seem so real, it comes to life on screen for those of us who are lucky enough never to live it: Saving Private Ryan, Band of Brothers, Black Hawk Down, Jarhead, Three Kings, The Thin Red Line, Pearl Harbor, Good Morning Vietnam, and I am sure the list could continue but you get the idea.
There is nothing glorious about war. There have been times where the government has tried to trivialize it, justify it, and because it is so brave and courageous they make it seem glorious. No matter how you feel about our government, it should not effect the way you feel about our military. We are free every day because of them. They sacrifice their lives so our lives are safe.
More than the books, the movies, and the government, when I think of war, I think of dinner tables across America where a chair at the table is empty. And of course, for most, that chair will be filled again by that very person off at war, but for some, sadly it will remain empty. War is broken hearts, death, atrocity, killing, gunfire, the desert, and dog tags. War is all the care packages we send to people we know and love and people who we don't know but we love anyway. War is letters that we write with words we meant to say in person but never got the chance to. We hope to have the chance to say them in person.
I am always reminded of a story that a friend's husband told me about when he was at war in Iraq and came back. He said he was at Dunkin' Donuts getting coffee and the line was rather long and someone in the line started complaining about having to wait in line. He told me that in that moment, all he could think about is how happy he was to be waiting in line at Dunkin' Donuts, that being in Iraq, away from his family, at war was so horrible that waiting in line was no big deal. Wow, I wish he had told that person who was complaining that. It puts things in perspective doesn't it?
Sometimes, people in our society don't stop to think about their actions and how it effects others. They're so caught up in their own issues that often they don't see past themselves to see all the sacrifices that people around them make so that they may live as they do. People are paid minimum wage at Dunkin' Donuts so we can go in and buy a coffee for $2. People go to war so we can live free.
The 30 men and women who died embody the American spirit; they are what this country is all about. I have friends who are in the war now, they too are the American spirit, our American spirit.
It's times like these that I look to reexamine my own life. I urge everyone else out there to do the same, it's not a chore, but rather an opportunity.
What are we living for? Is it to hurt other people? Or help other people?
How are we living our lives? Can you look at your life honestly and be proud of the way that you live it? There are a lot of people who sleep soundly at night knowing that they hurt other people. They don't care because they have no conscience. Perhaps they experienced great amounts of pain in their life, pain so great that it desensitized them from feeling for others. Whatever the reason, not having a conscience, not caring, is not something to be proud of.
Look at yourself honestly in the mirror, cry if you need to, if you have the heart to. Are you jealous? Unkind? Mean? Gossipy? Do you judge to the point that it hurts others? Do you live with hate in your heart? Do you use others (be it your children or an enemy) for your own benefit? Do you not care about the consequences of your actions and what it imposes upon others? Let go of all of those things. I can honestly say I've looked at myself critically, and in the past year, there are so many things I've experienced, so many things I've worked on, and so many things I've fixed. It feels good to live life in such an honest way. It feels good to be grateful for life.
I ask these questions because I know people who live with the jealousy, unkindness, and hate in their hearts. I say this not to expose them because I would have to use names to do that. I say it because a part of me hopes that they will read this and just know who they are. A part of me hopes that they want to live better lives. Believing in God and going to church does not make you a good person. Living your life in a way that is giving and being proud of the life you live is what makes you a good person.
I know one woman in particular who lives with a lot of hate. She uses people, she's jealous though won't admit it, and she forces people to act and be how she thinks they should be. Her ideas of what is right and wrong are so scrambled up. What upsets me is how much it hurts some people that I care about. I find myself thinking how stressful it must be to be her. I mean she must really be exhausted at night, and for what? For a false sense of pride? For the joy of hurting others and keeping them down because she is down too? I don't know why, and I don't know how to answer. I wish I did know why, maybe there would be some way of helping her.
It's a shame that people die at war every day and yet those living among us squander second chances. We should all be grateful.
There is nothing glorious about war. There have been times where the government has tried to trivialize it, justify it, and because it is so brave and courageous they make it seem glorious. No matter how you feel about our government, it should not effect the way you feel about our military. We are free every day because of them. They sacrifice their lives so our lives are safe.
More than the books, the movies, and the government, when I think of war, I think of dinner tables across America where a chair at the table is empty. And of course, for most, that chair will be filled again by that very person off at war, but for some, sadly it will remain empty. War is broken hearts, death, atrocity, killing, gunfire, the desert, and dog tags. War is all the care packages we send to people we know and love and people who we don't know but we love anyway. War is letters that we write with words we meant to say in person but never got the chance to. We hope to have the chance to say them in person.
I am always reminded of a story that a friend's husband told me about when he was at war in Iraq and came back. He said he was at Dunkin' Donuts getting coffee and the line was rather long and someone in the line started complaining about having to wait in line. He told me that in that moment, all he could think about is how happy he was to be waiting in line at Dunkin' Donuts, that being in Iraq, away from his family, at war was so horrible that waiting in line was no big deal. Wow, I wish he had told that person who was complaining that. It puts things in perspective doesn't it?
Sometimes, people in our society don't stop to think about their actions and how it effects others. They're so caught up in their own issues that often they don't see past themselves to see all the sacrifices that people around them make so that they may live as they do. People are paid minimum wage at Dunkin' Donuts so we can go in and buy a coffee for $2. People go to war so we can live free.
The 30 men and women who died embody the American spirit; they are what this country is all about. I have friends who are in the war now, they too are the American spirit, our American spirit.
It's times like these that I look to reexamine my own life. I urge everyone else out there to do the same, it's not a chore, but rather an opportunity.
What are we living for? Is it to hurt other people? Or help other people?
How are we living our lives? Can you look at your life honestly and be proud of the way that you live it? There are a lot of people who sleep soundly at night knowing that they hurt other people. They don't care because they have no conscience. Perhaps they experienced great amounts of pain in their life, pain so great that it desensitized them from feeling for others. Whatever the reason, not having a conscience, not caring, is not something to be proud of.
Look at yourself honestly in the mirror, cry if you need to, if you have the heart to. Are you jealous? Unkind? Mean? Gossipy? Do you judge to the point that it hurts others? Do you live with hate in your heart? Do you use others (be it your children or an enemy) for your own benefit? Do you not care about the consequences of your actions and what it imposes upon others? Let go of all of those things. I can honestly say I've looked at myself critically, and in the past year, there are so many things I've experienced, so many things I've worked on, and so many things I've fixed. It feels good to live life in such an honest way. It feels good to be grateful for life.
I ask these questions because I know people who live with the jealousy, unkindness, and hate in their hearts. I say this not to expose them because I would have to use names to do that. I say it because a part of me hopes that they will read this and just know who they are. A part of me hopes that they want to live better lives. Believing in God and going to church does not make you a good person. Living your life in a way that is giving and being proud of the life you live is what makes you a good person.
I know one woman in particular who lives with a lot of hate. She uses people, she's jealous though won't admit it, and she forces people to act and be how she thinks they should be. Her ideas of what is right and wrong are so scrambled up. What upsets me is how much it hurts some people that I care about. I find myself thinking how stressful it must be to be her. I mean she must really be exhausted at night, and for what? For a false sense of pride? For the joy of hurting others and keeping them down because she is down too? I don't know why, and I don't know how to answer. I wish I did know why, maybe there would be some way of helping her.
It's a shame that people die at war every day and yet those living among us squander second chances. We should all be grateful.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Just Because I Had to Share It...
On last week's So You Think You Can Dance results show, magic was created once again, Thanks to Travis Wall, Lauren Froderman, and Kent Boyd.....
So You Think You Can Dance Season 8 Becomes Unforgettable
The Top 8 7.27.11
Here are some more of my favorite routines...
The 8 finalists with an all star
Caitylnn and Ivan (Season 2) danced a lyrical hip hop choreographed by Marty Kudelek, music was Let Me Love You by Mario-- Mark said you are drop dead gorgeous, you did a really good job tonight and hung in there with Ivan. Nigel said get down into the dance more but you played the part well. Guest judge Lady Gaga called Caitlynn sexy and urged her to move all the way through every move like Ivan does.
This was magic for me, I loved the coolness of Ivan and the connection he had with Caitlynn. The style of the routine was very old school but it didn't feel aged to me.
Jordan and Ade (Season 5) danced a jazz routine choreographed by Tyce Diorio, music was Nutbush City Limits by Tina Turner-- Nigel said it was fun, well done darling. Gaga said your legs are fabulous. Guest judge Rob Marshall said you're what I love and you do it all with such abandon. Mary told Jordan she flourishes in strong female roles.
Jordan has been one of my favorite dancers since day one when I saw her audition. This performance confirmed my love for Jordan.
Melanie and Neil (Season 3) danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Mandy Moore, music was Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler-- Lady Gaga said I would have you on my tour tomorrow. Rob said it's exquisite to watch you.
I wanna go on tour with Melanie! She seems so fun and talented.
Jess and Lauren G. (Season 3) danced a hip hip choreographed by Tabitha and Napoleon, music was Take a Bow by Rhianna-- Mary said Jess gave an honest performance and has improved every week. Gaga said I have so much respect for you, you out-shined the props and the choreography. Rob said simple, pure, and beautiful Jess; you have used this competition to grow.
Jess is truly extraordinary; I predict a great Broadway career ahead.
Tadd and Lauren F. (Season 7) danced a jazz routine choreographed by Mandy Moore, music was Another One Bites the Dust by Queen-- Nigel said this is a great style for you, very Michael Jackson-esque. Gaga loved the styling and loves how he isn't in any one box, he can always change himself as a dancer. Rob said the mark of a real pro is someone who keeps going; you are very special. Mary said you're cool and you swag like no one else. "You're gonna land in the finale Tadd, I know it".
Everything down to Tadd's facial expressions in this routine were perfection.
Marko and Allison (Season 2) danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Sonya Tayeh, music was I Know It's Over by Jeff Buckley-- A crying Lady Gaga said I am so proud of you, I know you really love to dance. Whether you're number one, three, or ten, who cares cause you've got it. Rob said Allison is a true artist, incredible partnership. Mary said you're so honest and so sincere; you're my favorite dancer.
Nigel said this moment transcends dance.
Nigel, I could not agree more. Marko and Allison dance with so much maturity.
Marko and Ricky danced a hip hop choreographed by Tabitha and Napoleon, music was Bad Boy for Life by Diddy feat. Black Rob and Mark Curry-- Mary loved it; "right and tight".Nigel said you guys cleaned up tonight. Rob admired their range and called it astonishing.
The Top 6 8.3.11
Sasha and Kent (Season 7) danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Tyce Diorio, music was Fool Of Me by Me’Shell Ndegeocello-- Guest judge Christina Applegate said she has so much courage and thank you for sharing your life and experiences with us. Mary said it was intoxicating and Tyce has built such a body of work on this show and yet Sasha you are still a superstar to me. Nigel called her brilliant. Lil felt she was speaking to him the whole time. “I love the way you dance, I would have given anything to work with you this season. You are phenomenal.”
I was just blown away by this performance, the partnership was so passionate.
Caitlynn and Pasha (Season 3) danced a samba choreographed by Dmitry Chaplin, music was Drop It Low (District 78 Remix by Kat DeLuna-- Christina said wow, and your body, whatever. Mary said your bodies were just melting together. Nigel called Caitlynn a sexy dancer. Lil C said swan dive into sexy, don't cannonball.
This was mui caliente, and I would love for both of them to give us all dancing lessons.
Dancing in the finale will be Marko, Melanie, Sasha, and Tadd.
Who is your pick?
Here are some more of my favorite routines...
The 8 finalists with an all star
Caitylnn and Ivan (Season 2) danced a lyrical hip hop choreographed by Marty Kudelek, music was Let Me Love You by Mario-- Mark said you are drop dead gorgeous, you did a really good job tonight and hung in there with Ivan. Nigel said get down into the dance more but you played the part well. Guest judge Lady Gaga called Caitlynn sexy and urged her to move all the way through every move like Ivan does.
This was magic for me, I loved the coolness of Ivan and the connection he had with Caitlynn. The style of the routine was very old school but it didn't feel aged to me.
Jordan and Ade (Season 5) danced a jazz routine choreographed by Tyce Diorio, music was Nutbush City Limits by Tina Turner-- Nigel said it was fun, well done darling. Gaga said your legs are fabulous. Guest judge Rob Marshall said you're what I love and you do it all with such abandon. Mary told Jordan she flourishes in strong female roles.
Jordan has been one of my favorite dancers since day one when I saw her audition. This performance confirmed my love for Jordan.
Melanie and Neil (Season 3) danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Mandy Moore, music was Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler-- Lady Gaga said I would have you on my tour tomorrow. Rob said it's exquisite to watch you.
I wanna go on tour with Melanie! She seems so fun and talented.
Jess and Lauren G. (Season 3) danced a hip hip choreographed by Tabitha and Napoleon, music was Take a Bow by Rhianna-- Mary said Jess gave an honest performance and has improved every week. Gaga said I have so much respect for you, you out-shined the props and the choreography. Rob said simple, pure, and beautiful Jess; you have used this competition to grow.
Jess is truly extraordinary; I predict a great Broadway career ahead.
Tadd and Lauren F. (Season 7) danced a jazz routine choreographed by Mandy Moore, music was Another One Bites the Dust by Queen-- Nigel said this is a great style for you, very Michael Jackson-esque. Gaga loved the styling and loves how he isn't in any one box, he can always change himself as a dancer. Rob said the mark of a real pro is someone who keeps going; you are very special. Mary said you're cool and you swag like no one else. "You're gonna land in the finale Tadd, I know it".
Everything down to Tadd's facial expressions in this routine were perfection.
Marko and Allison (Season 2) danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Sonya Tayeh, music was I Know It's Over by Jeff Buckley-- A crying Lady Gaga said I am so proud of you, I know you really love to dance. Whether you're number one, three, or ten, who cares cause you've got it. Rob said Allison is a true artist, incredible partnership. Mary said you're so honest and so sincere; you're my favorite dancer.
Nigel said this moment transcends dance.
Nigel, I could not agree more. Marko and Allison dance with so much maturity.
Marko and Ricky danced a hip hop choreographed by Tabitha and Napoleon, music was Bad Boy for Life by Diddy feat. Black Rob and Mark Curry-- Mary loved it; "right and tight".Nigel said you guys cleaned up tonight. Rob admired their range and called it astonishing.
The Top 6 8.3.11
Sasha and Kent (Season 7) danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Tyce Diorio, music was Fool Of Me by Me’Shell Ndegeocello-- Guest judge Christina Applegate said she has so much courage and thank you for sharing your life and experiences with us. Mary said it was intoxicating and Tyce has built such a body of work on this show and yet Sasha you are still a superstar to me. Nigel called her brilliant. Lil felt she was speaking to him the whole time. “I love the way you dance, I would have given anything to work with you this season. You are phenomenal.”
I was just blown away by this performance, the partnership was so passionate.
Caitlynn and Pasha (Season 3) danced a samba choreographed by Dmitry Chaplin, music was Drop It Low (District 78 Remix by Kat DeLuna-- Christina said wow, and your body, whatever. Mary said your bodies were just melting together. Nigel called Caitlynn a sexy dancer. Lil C said swan dive into sexy, don't cannonball.
This was mui caliente, and I would love for both of them to give us all dancing lessons.
Dancing in the finale will be Marko, Melanie, Sasha, and Tadd.
Who is your pick?
Thursday, July 28, 2011
This season of So You Think You Can Dance is sizzling!
The Top 12 7.13.2011
My Fave routines--
Jordan and Tadd danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Travis Wall-- Sonya called it true artistry that makes you want to cry.
Melanie and Marko danced a tango choreographed by Louis Van Amstel that made Sonya lose her breath because there was so much conviction and discipline.
Clarice and Jess danced a lyrical hip hop routine choreographed by Chris Scott-- I loved this music for this one and the whole concept (Just the Way You Are by Boyce Avenue). Mary loved the pulse of this piece. Guest judge Jesse Tyler Ferguson asked Clarice if she had a boyfriend because he wants to marry her. He called Clarice a light and said Jess is tremendous.
Melanie and Marko danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Dee Caspary-- This number was simply beautiful and easily one of the most well choreographed numbers this season. It was also the culmination of Melanie and Marko's work together; this partnership was absolutely stunning every week.
Ryan and Alexander were eliminated
The Top 10 7.20.2011
This week was the beginning of the contestants dancing with All Stars
Marko and Chelsie danced a samba choreographed by Jason Gilkison, The music was Cinema Italiano by Kate Hudson-- Guest judge Neil Patrick Harris called it amazing and said what a dirty way to start the show. He said, Marko, you dance with such precision, you're definitely the guy to beat.
I feel like, is there any dance that Marko cannot master; it seems like he can do everything.
Jordan and Brandon danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Desmond Richardson and Dwight Rhoden, The music was Who You Are by Jessie J-- Mary said Jordan was fantastic and fearless. Nigel said she does not have a lot of weaknesses and therefore they were able to choreograph her how they wanted her. Neil said you're beautiful and so inspiring.
I found this dance just effortless.
Tadd and Comfort danced a hip hop routine choreographed by Chuck Maldonado, The music was Look at Me Now by Chris Brown, feat. Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne-- Nigel said the routine was fast and Tadd out-danced his all star. Mary said he has something special and swagger.
There were lots of great tricks in this number that flowed well and were perfectly executed.
Caitlynn and Pasha danced an Argentine tango choreographed by Leonardo & Miriam, The music was Malajunta by Orquesta Color Tango-- Mary said this number was a real treat on the eyes. The passion was more real than any number. You were a real and complete woman tonight, Mary said. Nigel said you were far sexier in this than in anything you've done before. Neil said you were gorgeous, you matched Pasha and you two were truly in sync.
This is honestly one of my favorite routines all season, it was so beautifully danced, and even someone like me who knows little about the technicalities of dancing knows that.
Sasha and Twitch danced a hip hop routine choreographed by Chris Scott, The music was Misty by Dorothy Moore-- The judges all thought it was a hot number. Nigel was at a loss for words and called it a memorable routine and said she had beautiful chemistry with her partner. Neil said this was spectacular and said Chris Scott was amazing. He added that Sasha and Twitch should danced every number together. Mary called it a sexy ass number and called Sasha an all star.
I echo everything the judges said; this was special.
Melanie and Pasha danced a Viennese Waltz choreographed by Jason Gilkison, The music was Everybody Hurts by Tina Arena-- Mary said it's like your feet never touched the floor; I don't know how you do it. Neil called it effortlessly perfect. She said you look like you're from the past but you dance like you're from the future. You're beautiful in every way inside and outside. You're easily my favorite dancer on the show.
It is very clear that every time Melanie takes the floor, something special happens.
Ricky and Allison danced a jazz routine choreographed by Tyce Diorio, The music was Precious Dream by Tori Amos-- Nigel thought it was very creative and that Ricky kept up with Allison. Neil said Tyce, bold move, and Ricky you were fierce.
Ricky really stepped up; Allison has always been really gifted and Ricky matched her.
My Fave routines--
Jordan and Tadd danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Travis Wall-- Sonya called it true artistry that makes you want to cry.
Melanie and Marko danced a tango choreographed by Louis Van Amstel that made Sonya lose her breath because there was so much conviction and discipline.
Clarice and Jess danced a lyrical hip hop routine choreographed by Chris Scott-- I loved this music for this one and the whole concept (Just the Way You Are by Boyce Avenue). Mary loved the pulse of this piece. Guest judge Jesse Tyler Ferguson asked Clarice if she had a boyfriend because he wants to marry her. He called Clarice a light and said Jess is tremendous.
Melanie and Marko danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Dee Caspary-- This number was simply beautiful and easily one of the most well choreographed numbers this season. It was also the culmination of Melanie and Marko's work together; this partnership was absolutely stunning every week.
Ryan and Alexander were eliminated
The Top 10 7.20.2011
This week was the beginning of the contestants dancing with All Stars
Marko and Chelsie danced a samba choreographed by Jason Gilkison, The music was Cinema Italiano by Kate Hudson-- Guest judge Neil Patrick Harris called it amazing and said what a dirty way to start the show. He said, Marko, you dance with such precision, you're definitely the guy to beat.
I feel like, is there any dance that Marko cannot master; it seems like he can do everything.
Jordan and Brandon danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Desmond Richardson and Dwight Rhoden, The music was Who You Are by Jessie J-- Mary said Jordan was fantastic and fearless. Nigel said she does not have a lot of weaknesses and therefore they were able to choreograph her how they wanted her. Neil said you're beautiful and so inspiring.
I found this dance just effortless.
Tadd and Comfort danced a hip hop routine choreographed by Chuck Maldonado, The music was Look at Me Now by Chris Brown, feat. Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne-- Nigel said the routine was fast and Tadd out-danced his all star. Mary said he has something special and swagger.
There were lots of great tricks in this number that flowed well and were perfectly executed.
Caitlynn and Pasha danced an Argentine tango choreographed by Leonardo & Miriam, The music was Malajunta by Orquesta Color Tango-- Mary said this number was a real treat on the eyes. The passion was more real than any number. You were a real and complete woman tonight, Mary said. Nigel said you were far sexier in this than in anything you've done before. Neil said you were gorgeous, you matched Pasha and you two were truly in sync.
This is honestly one of my favorite routines all season, it was so beautifully danced, and even someone like me who knows little about the technicalities of dancing knows that.
Sasha and Twitch danced a hip hop routine choreographed by Chris Scott, The music was Misty by Dorothy Moore-- The judges all thought it was a hot number. Nigel was at a loss for words and called it a memorable routine and said she had beautiful chemistry with her partner. Neil said this was spectacular and said Chris Scott was amazing. He added that Sasha and Twitch should danced every number together. Mary called it a sexy ass number and called Sasha an all star.
I echo everything the judges said; this was special.
Melanie and Pasha danced a Viennese Waltz choreographed by Jason Gilkison, The music was Everybody Hurts by Tina Arena-- Mary said it's like your feet never touched the floor; I don't know how you do it. Neil called it effortlessly perfect. She said you look like you're from the past but you dance like you're from the future. You're beautiful in every way inside and outside. You're easily my favorite dancer on the show.
It is very clear that every time Melanie takes the floor, something special happens.
Ricky and Allison danced a jazz routine choreographed by Tyce Diorio, The music was Precious Dream by Tori Amos-- Nigel thought it was very creative and that Ricky kept up with Allison. Neil said Tyce, bold move, and Ricky you were fierce.
Ricky really stepped up; Allison has always been really gifted and Ricky matched her.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Ashley Hebert: The Bachelorette Season 7 Episodes 8 and 9
I decided to combine the home town dates with the fantasy suite dates in Fiji. Here's what went down....
Episode 8 Home Town Dates
Home town date that most resembled the movie My Big Fat Greek Wedding: Constantine's! Ashley said he was one of the guys that really stuck with her out of the limo. Now that she has gotten to know him she sees so much good in him, he's so honest. She felt comfortable at his restaurant and told his mom that she would be more than happy to relocate to Georgia if it's what makes Constantine happy. Ashley says the thing she loves about Constantine is that she loves hard and she loves for real. I especially loved the part where his entire family showed up and they all started dancing a la My Big Fat Greek Wedding with Constantine's father Dmitri throwing money at them.
Most picturesque home town date: Ames! Ames's sister Serena immediately noticed a spark in Ames that she has never seen before. Ashley revealed that she likes how introspective and independent he is; he's a man. Serena says Ames is a very loyal person and he cares about the people he loves. Ames's mom sees many similarities with her son and Ashley. By far the most picturesque moment takes places when Ames and Ashley have a picnic under a magnolia tree.
Home town date with the deepest conversation: Ben's. Ashley says everything about Ben screams sexiness to her but she wonders if his family will like her as much as he does. He confesses that he hasn't brought many women home to meet his family, and that she shouldn't be worried because he is confident in what they have built together. Ben's sister Julia says that Ben is in touch with his emotions and feels that he knows what he wants.
Home town date with the most flashbacks: J.P. He takes Ashley to a roller skating rink and she says she feels like they are back in seventh grade again. It is clear that they are so comfortable with one another, and J.P. tells her he feels 100% certain of their relationship. Ashley tells J.P.'s mother that she is smitten with him. His mom can tell that J.P. is not just taken by how beautiful she is on the outside but also how beautiful she is on the inside.
Ames is eliminated in the end.
Episode 9 Fiji
Ryan comes back asking Ashley for another chance and more time together.
Ben: They spend the day on the water on a yacht and they comment on how easy they feel their relationship is. Then they go snorkeling together; it's so clear to me throughout this date that Ben is in love with Ashley. He later confesses he is but does not tell her. Could this mistake prove to be a costly one for Sonoma's most gorgeous bachelor? Ashley says she had a sense of comfort today with Ben that she didn't have before and they take advantage of the fantasy suite by taking a dip in the suite's outdoor pool. Ben then carries her back to their suite.
Constantine: This date was a disaster from almost the beginning. Ashley says Constantine is always guarded and very careful with what he says. She looks at him but can never tell what he is thinking. Ashley thinks maybe he needs time, but they are running out of time. He ultimately leaves before they ever get to the fantasy suite. He says he wouldn't be able to propose to her and he can't say he's in love with her and he promised he wouldn't go further if that wasn't the case.
Ashley told Ryan that she couldn't be with him because they lacked a passion that she found with two other guys.
J.P.: Ashley says J.P. has been her rock throughout this whole process. They fly on a seaplane and go to a private island together where Ashley confesses that Ryan came back and Constantine left. J.P. says he is definitely in love with Ashley, and yet, he too decides not to tell her!
Who will Ashley choose?
Ben or J.P.?
Episode 8 Home Town Dates
Home town date that most resembled the movie My Big Fat Greek Wedding: Constantine's! Ashley said he was one of the guys that really stuck with her out of the limo. Now that she has gotten to know him she sees so much good in him, he's so honest. She felt comfortable at his restaurant and told his mom that she would be more than happy to relocate to Georgia if it's what makes Constantine happy. Ashley says the thing she loves about Constantine is that she loves hard and she loves for real. I especially loved the part where his entire family showed up and they all started dancing a la My Big Fat Greek Wedding with Constantine's father Dmitri throwing money at them.
Most picturesque home town date: Ames! Ames's sister Serena immediately noticed a spark in Ames that she has never seen before. Ashley revealed that she likes how introspective and independent he is; he's a man. Serena says Ames is a very loyal person and he cares about the people he loves. Ames's mom sees many similarities with her son and Ashley. By far the most picturesque moment takes places when Ames and Ashley have a picnic under a magnolia tree.
Home town date with the deepest conversation: Ben's. Ashley says everything about Ben screams sexiness to her but she wonders if his family will like her as much as he does. He confesses that he hasn't brought many women home to meet his family, and that she shouldn't be worried because he is confident in what they have built together. Ben's sister Julia says that Ben is in touch with his emotions and feels that he knows what he wants.
Home town date with the most flashbacks: J.P. He takes Ashley to a roller skating rink and she says she feels like they are back in seventh grade again. It is clear that they are so comfortable with one another, and J.P. tells her he feels 100% certain of their relationship. Ashley tells J.P.'s mother that she is smitten with him. His mom can tell that J.P. is not just taken by how beautiful she is on the outside but also how beautiful she is on the inside.
Ames is eliminated in the end.
Episode 9 Fiji
Ryan comes back asking Ashley for another chance and more time together.
Ben: They spend the day on the water on a yacht and they comment on how easy they feel their relationship is. Then they go snorkeling together; it's so clear to me throughout this date that Ben is in love with Ashley. He later confesses he is but does not tell her. Could this mistake prove to be a costly one for Sonoma's most gorgeous bachelor? Ashley says she had a sense of comfort today with Ben that she didn't have before and they take advantage of the fantasy suite by taking a dip in the suite's outdoor pool. Ben then carries her back to their suite.
Constantine: This date was a disaster from almost the beginning. Ashley says Constantine is always guarded and very careful with what he says. She looks at him but can never tell what he is thinking. Ashley thinks maybe he needs time, but they are running out of time. He ultimately leaves before they ever get to the fantasy suite. He says he wouldn't be able to propose to her and he can't say he's in love with her and he promised he wouldn't go further if that wasn't the case.
Ashley told Ryan that she couldn't be with him because they lacked a passion that she found with two other guys.
J.P.: Ashley says J.P. has been her rock throughout this whole process. They fly on a seaplane and go to a private island together where Ashley confesses that Ryan came back and Constantine left. J.P. says he is definitely in love with Ashley, and yet, he too decides not to tell her!
Who will Ashley choose?
Ben or J.P.?
Monday, July 18, 2011
Ashley Hebert: The Bachelorette Season 7 Episode 7
I have to say that for the most part, this was a rather boring Bachelorette episode. Ashley had three one on one dates with Constantine, Ben, and Ryan.
Here are some highlights from those dates--
Constantine: Ashley and Constantine took a steam engine to Tai Pei. They write their love wishes on lanterns which then float up and away into the sky. Awww, how sweet, I wonder what they wished for. Overall, I like Constantine but I don't think he is quite ready to commit.
Ben: This date starts out with them riding together on a motorcycle. The surprise is that Ben and Ashley stay out all night much to J.P.'s chagrin.
Ryan: The shocker comes during this date in which Ashley sends Ryan home before the date even ends! She gave him the first impression rose; she said you're the perfect guy Ryan, you're my perfect guy. I just don't think we have that romantic connection. Ryan is understandably shocked and says he is looking for never ending love as he walks off. Ashley wonders if she made the right decision.
The group date consists of Lucas, Ames, J.P., and each of them taking wedding photos with Ashley. Lucas is wearing traditional Taiwanese wedding clothing. He says he definitely wants Ashley to come back to Texas and meet his family.
Ames wore some modern/ retro clothing. I hope that makes sense, it had somewhat of a Bohemian look to it. Ames says he has stopped rationalizing his relationship with Ashley; he thinks it just feels right. Ashley agrees that she has never met anyone like Ames.
J.P., despite being very down this week, lucks out with a traditional black tuxedo. Ashley is allowed to give out one rose on this date and gives it to J.P. saying, I want to meet your family so bad.
At the end of the night, in somewhat of a surprise, Ashley sends Lucas, who she felt was very comforting and protective, packing. :-(
What will happen this week?
Here are some highlights from those dates--
Constantine: Ashley and Constantine took a steam engine to Tai Pei. They write their love wishes on lanterns which then float up and away into the sky. Awww, how sweet, I wonder what they wished for. Overall, I like Constantine but I don't think he is quite ready to commit.
Ben: This date starts out with them riding together on a motorcycle. The surprise is that Ben and Ashley stay out all night much to J.P.'s chagrin.
Ryan: The shocker comes during this date in which Ashley sends Ryan home before the date even ends! She gave him the first impression rose; she said you're the perfect guy Ryan, you're my perfect guy. I just don't think we have that romantic connection. Ryan is understandably shocked and says he is looking for never ending love as he walks off. Ashley wonders if she made the right decision.
The group date consists of Lucas, Ames, J.P., and each of them taking wedding photos with Ashley. Lucas is wearing traditional Taiwanese wedding clothing. He says he definitely wants Ashley to come back to Texas and meet his family.
Ames wore some modern/ retro clothing. I hope that makes sense, it had somewhat of a Bohemian look to it. Ames says he has stopped rationalizing his relationship with Ashley; he thinks it just feels right. Ashley agrees that she has never met anyone like Ames.
J.P., despite being very down this week, lucks out with a traditional black tuxedo. Ashley is allowed to give out one rose on this date and gives it to J.P. saying, I want to meet your family so bad.
At the end of the night, in somewhat of a surprise, Ashley sends Lucas, who she felt was very comforting and protective, packing. :-(
What will happen this week?
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