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American Idol Top 12 Recap
13 years ago
Last night’s show made me really regret adamantly insisting that my friend’s watch this season. I was so thrilled with last week’s episodes that I was anxiously waiting to see the performances of the Top 12, but overall, what a disappointment.
I will say that Stefano really stood out to me this week. I think he went slightly overboard with the ‘Christina Aguileraesque’ runs. However you felt his passion and he sounded beautiful. Perfect song choice for him (heck, I bought it on iTunes). Pia chose a more up-tempo song and that was enjoyable. Casey, personally I’m confused by the Nirvana song choice for him. I like Casey, I like Nirvana… not sure if I liked them mixed. But it doesn’t matter what I think, the judges praised him, my roommate loved it, and he’s hanging around much longer. I was surprised that I enjoyed Haley’s rendition of Whitney Houston’s, “I’m Your Baby Tonight.” I was really concerned for her to do this song but it turned out better than expected. It may not be her style but I thought it was a strong performance.
Overall everyone was extremely pitchy; there were notes where I just cringed. Naima, Naima, Naima. All I can say is that I can appreciate that she is true to herself and she is certainly unique. Her style is great, for her… but really the girl belongs on a cruise ship, not American Idol. It’s pretty early in the competition and I can hardly even watch a Paul McDonald performance objectively because he practically melts my heart. I even pondered the idea of sending fan mail. Disgusting. I need to pull myself together. Anyway, he didn’t sound great. I guess I should throw in the fact that he was sick but that won’t really give him a pass in my book. From a PR perspective the music industry is big about branding. This show is certainly creating a brand and path for Paul McDonald. I just hope the viewers keep him around longer. Since this week was rough, I think its absolutely necessary that he brings his guitar within the next couple weeks. He needs to show that side of him. Otherwise people are just going to get tired of his sound.
In a way I’m slightly satisfied that most of the performances were sub par. I was really getting tired of the constant love and mushy comments from the judges. It was about time we heard some real criticism and feedback. And just another side note, anyone notice how many times the camera cut to Jennifer Lopez only to see her singing along? Maybe she’s embarrassed about not knowing who Ryan Adams is, but no need to make up for it with the constant lip-synching this week. Clearly I’m bitter about how things went down last night. But I’m tuning in tonight and the rest of the season regardless.
Happy St. Patricks Day everyone!
Why Paul McDonald Is Great For American Idol
13 years ago
If you have written off American Idol because your tired of the same old singing competition, with the same mediocre songs, it’s time to tune in… because the times they are a changing. And it starts with Paul McDonald. Each week Randy Jackson has said how good it is for American Idol to have Paul on the show. Paul is bringing so much that hasn’t been brought before. But I’m seeing a lot of talent I haven’t seen on this show before. So why is it that Paul is so great for the show?
His voice is so unique in the mainstream world, most just haven’t heard it. Here he is on national television, on a show that gets millions of viewers each week, and he’s single handedly going to be bringing the sounds of Ryan Adams, Mumford, and Wilco (and hopefully Wilco is in the AI catalog because Paul would do Jeff Tweedy proud I’m sure). Now is the perfect time for Paul to be on American Idol, this music has been just waiting to break through, the amazing response to Mumford and the Avett Brothers at the Grammys this year shows that people are feeling this genre.
Last night he performed “Come Pick Me Up,” by Ryan Adams. Brilliant song, Ryan Adams is an artist that makes you feel something. How sad is it that Jennifer Lopez had never heard of him? I guess too often I am stuck in my music bubble that it’s hard to believe someone that’s in the music industry hasn’t heard of people like Adams. It was like after the Grammys… and people were saying, “who is Arcade Fire?” That killed me. AI’s viewers need Paul, and he said after his performance last night that, “he hopes we get it.” I get it, I love that song, I feel that song in the pit of my stomach, deep in my heart. And I guess I realize that not everyone is going to get it but it’s just so refreshing to hear him on the show. I have a feeling that more people will get it when he pulls out his guitar and sings. I cannot wait for that moment.
With Paul it’s really a win-win. For the show its wonderful to bring in this entire new catalog of music and cater to a larger audience. On the flip side, for the all of the artists that he’s covering its great exposure. Paul has selling power. As of 11 PM last night Ryan Adams was the second most searched topic on google.
Paul was in two bands prior to American Idol, “Hightide Blues” and “The Grand Magnolias.” Both bands have had albums on sale on iTunes. The Grand Magnolias have sky rocketed to the top of the Rock Charts on iTunes since Paul’s appearance on American Idol. Interesting to note that when I went to check the chart position today, I was unable to find them on iTunes. There’s a strong possibility that it has been removed due to legal issues with the show. I will keep digging for information and keep you updated as I find out.
I’ll be writing every week about American Idol. Early front runners in my mind are Pia and Casey. Pia definitely has the look and voice for an Idol. She is the more obvious choice in my mind. Casey, I love him. He reminds me of the guy next door, jamming on his guitar, the kind of talent that is generally overlooked. You can feel the music and his passion when he sings, I can’t imagine what it’s like to watch him perform live. I love Scotty too, such a strong country voice. I don’t even like country music that much but I do really like him. Personally I love Paul, no surprise here. But I’m not confident he can win the entire thing, nor do I think it would be good for him in the long run. He needs his artistic freedom and I’m not sure that he would be able to accomplish that as the winner. It will be interesting to see how this season pans out, I definitely would recommend people try watching American Idol this season… there’s sooo much talent this year, if you love music you have to see it.
Street Home Chicago
13 years ago
One of the best things about Chicago is the fabulous street performers. You can find them sharing the gift of music all year long but there is an excitement in the air as the weather warms up and they come out of the train stations and spill onto the streets. It’s truly the music in the summer that I believe electrifies the city.
There are many days that I will leave for work early or walk out of my way to see if my favorite guitar player or drummer is playing in their usual spot. I love taking time out to show my appreciation for their gift. I stumbled upon an amazing article in the Chicago Reader last week that introduced me to a not for profit organization supporting the street performers in the city. The website www.chicagostreetmusicians.org launched a year and half ago and is gaining recognition quickly. It is run by commuter, Gabriel Chapman, a musician himself, who started CSM to raise awareness of the performers talent and get them some club gigs. Chapman’s story alone has been inspirational to me but the message he is trying to spread is larger than life. This campaign launched with a showcase video featuring 16 musicians, most notably is likely to be singer Crystal Bowersox (prior to her audition at American Idol she was sharing her talent freely on our city streets). This video shows everything that is unique and beautiful about this city.
Watching the street performers as a kid is one of my first memories of the big city and it is such a big part of how I fell in love with Chicago and why I live here today. Tonight many dreams are coming true at House of Blues Chicago. You can catch the talented street performers playing on stage live at their first ever “Street Home Chicago” concert. Tickets are 10 bucks and the show starts at 9:30. This is a great organization to support, hopefully they get a good crowd, they deserve it.
Never Say Never
13 years ago
I guess it should be no surprise to any of you that I went to see the Justin Bieber movie today. But I honestly wasn’t sure if I was going to actually spend my money to go see it. Movies aren’t exactly my thing and I had no intentions of checking out Never Say Never. While the movie trailers sparked my interest I also had thought to myself, why does this kid need a movie? It’s about his rise to fame and its like, isn’t that what True Hollywood Story is for? I also felt like they were taking advantage of the Bieber fan base, knowing that Beliebers do not disappoint and would indefinitely show up at the box office whether the movies was good or bad.
Here’s the honest, non-biased truth; the movie did not suck. His story is so beautiful, unique, and inspirational. And while much of the content certainly could be featured on True Hollywood Story the movie was created to reach a wider audience. Unfortunately, I think the biggest challenge is going to get non-Beliebers to watch Never Say Never. Because if you don’t like Bieber then I’m sure your thinking that there is nothing in the movie that will interest you.
I’m telling you this movie caters to everyone. It fascinated me as someone that wants to learn and know everything on the business side of the music industry. My roommate, an artist herself became extremely inspired by his drive, passion, and determination. The children in the theater were entertained by the music and production of his concerts. I was also impressed with Justin Bieber’s family, how incredibly supportive they all have been and how they are trying to keep Justin grounded.
Number one reason why YOU should see this movie, the story is about believing in yourself and making your dreams come true, and lets be honest, we all can relate to having a dream. If you do take my advice and check out the film please let me know your thoughts. It’s getting rave reviews from critics. I truly don’t think there is one negative thing you can say about the movie. I’m beyond interested to know what everyone else is thinking about it. Have you caught the Bieber Fever yet?
The White Stripes Announce Break Up
13 years ago
Have you ever felt like your just in an inspirational rut? I have sat here the past couple days thinking, there is nothing in the music industry going on right now that’s worth writing about. Reading on Twitter five minutes ago that the White Stripes are done touring and making new music was just the thing to rock my world. I am not ok with this. I sort of feel like I just lost my best friend! But the magical thing about music is that it lives on forever. The band says there are “myriad of reasons” for the breakup, but the main reason is to “preserve what is beautiful and special about the band.”
The White Stripes are made up of Jack White and his ex wife Meg White. The White Stripes are certainly not a household name like Oasis or Radiohead, but they should be. Meg has never taken a drum lesson and her minimalistic style has drawn some criticism. For me, its hard to take my eyes off the duo. Both are incredible musicians. Each of their last three albums won Grammy’s for Best Alternative Music Album. The bands most successful single is “Seven Nation Army” and that won a Grammy in 2004 for “Best Rock Song.”
To try to put into words the artistry behind this talented duo would completely understate everything that I actually feel about their music. So with that being said I have included a video of their 2004 Grammy performance I think the video speaks for itself and shows everything that is “beautiful and special about the band.”
Guy Sebastian
13 years ago
Guy Sebastian is certainly not new to the music scene but it’s quite possible that this is the first time you are hearing his name. I stumbled across his newest single, ‘Who’s That Girl’ via Twitter earlier this week and have had it on repeat ever since, (the song not to be confused with two of the latest top 40 hits “Who Dat Girl” by Flo Rida or “Who’s That Chick?” by David Guetta and Rihanna).
In 2003 Sebastian was crowned the first winner of Australian Idol. I know for the most part people don’t accredit winners of talent shows as true musicians/artists however its hard to ignore that once in awhile these shows pump out some high selling acts. Here in the states we have Kelly Clarkson, Jordin Sparks, and the extremely talented and marketable, Carrie Underwood. I can’t say that I have kept up with other countries versions of the show but what I do know is that Sebastian is the only Australian male artist in Australian music history to achieve five Number 1 singles.
His sound is very much comparable to Bruno Mars. The new track, ‘Who’s That Girl’ features American rapper, Eve. I have always loved Eve and I think it’s a brilliant move for him to collaborate with American artists to promote his music. It’s only a matter of time before this song goes viral. Not sure how I feel about the video but it’s the catchiest song I have heard in quite awhile so check it out for yourself.
Most Memorable Songs of 2010
13 years ago
It may be slightly cliché to make a list on the 31st of December of my favorite songs that were released this year. But everyone else is doing it, and I do write for a blog… so I think I should get a free pass for producing something completely unoriginal. I will attempt to make it slightly more exciting with legitimate reasons why you should check out these tracks. In addition I have created a playlist on Grooveshark that will give you the opportunity to listen to all these songs, as much as you want, for free. If you haven’t joined Grooveshark already, it’s an absolute must for you to do this year. It is an amazing way to listen and find new music. I actually have been using it way more than Pandora lately. Without further adieu – here’s my much anticipated list:
Florence and the Machine Performing Live
- Dog Days Are Over – Florence and the Machine
This is the second single released by Florence and the Machines debut album. It completely made its rounds on a bunch of tv shows, an advertisement for Slumdog Millionaire, and was featured on the Eat, Pray, Love movie trailer. The band showed everyone up at the VMA’s, easily the best performance of the night if based on just complete raw, undeniable greatness.
- Tighten Up – The Black Keys
Great alternative song. I’m always whistling the melody. It’s a strong song that I recommend listening to on your way to work or in the morning. It will definitely get you ready to take on the day.
- F— You – Cee Lo
Clearly the radio version is titled – ‘Forget You’, since the original title is slightly inappropriate. The ‘Forget You’ version doesn’t quite pack the same punch. It’s a catchy song but quite frankly I think the highlight for me was to watch Gwyneth Paltrow cover it on Glee.
- Who I Am – Nick Jonas
I play this album for everyone. It sounds nothing like the Jonas Brothers, and as far as my friends are concerned they find Nick Jonas and the Administration to be slightly more acceptable for me to be listening to. I think you should listen to this if you want to be pleasantly surprised.
Screen Caps from Love the Way You Lie
- Love The Way You Lie – Eminem & Rihanna
This is an unbelievable song and video. Those close to me might be surprised that I have included this on my list. But its beyond memorable. I complained about the message it was sending, and I do have slight issues with it being mainstream. But it pushed the envelope. Some of my favorite artists write many more disturbing lyrics, however those are buried and it takes some reflecting to find the meaning of these. Love the way you lie, is honest, blunt and the simplicity of it is beautiful.
- Pray – Justin Bieber
No surprise here that I put a Bieber song on this list. I find this song to be so inspirational and amazing. That’s all I I’m going to say.
- Heart Skipped a Beat – Xx
Another obsession from Lollapalooza. Really great band, really solid song.
- Ten Years Older – Jarrod Gorbel
I’m not heartbroken that the Honorary Title is broken up if Jarrod Gorbel continues to produce solo projects such as this. An incredibly beautiful song and a man with an exceptional voice.
Screen Caps From Whip My Hair Music Video
- Whip My Hair – Willow Smith
I have heard so many crazy stories about the status of this song. Willow Smith may only be 9 years old but she has certainly managed to make a song for all ages. And have you seen the video? Her dance moves are so major. She is so fierce and I know she has a long career ahead of her! So many people haven’t heard this song & I’ve heard its banned from radio, I can’t actually confirm it with a reliable source, but that’s what I’ve heard. Apparently there have been instances where people are not whipping their hair responsibly and getting themselves injured. Weirdest thing ever.
- Little Lion Man – Mumford and Sons
I have been completely obsessed with Mumford & Sons since Lollapalooza. This would be a great song to start with and introduce you to their sound, if you haven’t heard of them.
- Grenade – Bruno Mars
The infatuation with this guy is insane. He has had multiple top 40 hits this year and his songs are love to the extreme. He would catch a grenade for this girl? She must be something special… I don’t know about all that but chicks love this stuff & and I like his sound, and I can’t ignore his music because I am living with his biggest fan. So I would be in trouble if I didn’t add him to this list.
Walking the Dog by Fun.
- Walking the Dog – Fun.
As much as I complained about their live performance, this song is great. You probably have already heard it, Expedia has had it on their commercial for the past few months. Extremely catchy, and I am slightly obsessed with the weirdness of the music video.
- Bullet and/or Turnpike Ghost – Steel Train
I just couldn’t decide between these two songs. Genius lyrics that just make you contemplate life. I love songs that get me to reflect about things that rarely reach the surface of my brain. But maybe I’m just weird like that.
- Give a Little – Hanson
I’d be lying if I said this pick wasn’t extremely biased. This is my favorite song off their new album Shout It Out. And quite frankly another song off the album, Thinking About Something has made many lists for best video of the list. And that song absolutely deserves the critical acclaim. So you might as well check out both songs.
- Slow Jam Mixtape – Jump Smokers ft. Twista
I have yet to tell ya’ll about the Jump Smokers. And I most certainly plan on filling you in on this Chicago based group. Off their debut album, Kinds of the Dancefloor is a remake of one of my all time favorite songs, originally done by Justin Roman (J.Roman). Lyrically, this song is brilliant and incorporates titles and artists of classic love songs to create a beautiful love story. This new track features Twista and makes it especially pleasurable to listen to.
- Black and Yellow – Wiz Khalifa
Reppin the hip hop community, I had to go with this song. I’m actually surprised about the ‘spillover’ (as Taylor Swift would call it) recently of this kind of music onto Top 40 charts and selling so well on iTunes. It’s truly great to see.
Drake, Rick Ross & Chrisette Michele
- Aston Martin Music – Rick Ross ft. Drake & Chrisette Michele
I really like the feel of this song. Reminds me of Lloyd Banks & Ashanti, Southside. You feel like your right there in the song living in that moment, even though most people would have no clue what it’s like to be in that situation. There is something to be said about a song that makes you feel that way.
- Need You Now – Lady Antebellum
Another great crossover country artist. For all my friends that hate country I push them towards Lady Antebellum as a transitional group. Their harmonies are phenomenal and they write some stellar stuff.
Taylor Swift
- Mine – Taylor Swift
A list of best songs wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Taylor Swift. I can’t deny her catchy lyrics and ‘Mine’ is no exception. Great song, I can’t help but sing along when I hear it.
For the sake of not having a novel of a blog, you can find the rest of the best songs of 2010 on my Stylebust playlist on Grooveshark. You can keep up with what I’m listening to the entire year if you follow me on there, screen name is MusicITZLife – I can’t wait to share with you what I’m listening to.
UStream
13 years ago
Social media is booming. As I continue my search for full time positions in Chicago I have come across many job postings that are looking for social media “experts.” I want to meet one of these experts myself. All of these programs are so new, and different ones are popping up on a daily basis. I think of myself as extremely technically savvy and can utilize social media for my marketing efforts, I wonder if I, myself, could be considered an expert. At the same time it is so hard to keep up with it all. Today I finally broke down and made myself a Ustream account and I want to share my experience with you.
What is UStream you ask? Basically it’s a live, interactive broadcasting platform that can be used by anyone with an internet connection and webcam. The person producing the stream uses their webcam and then there is a live chat feature. So I mean every show is different but you can communicate with the streamer using the chat tool. Today I “joined the crowd” and I sat in on a talk with one of my favorite bands, Everybody Else. They are so major. They produce some incredible pop songs, and not Justin Bieber bubblegum pop love stuff. This is like electrifying pop, rock, funk music (think OK Go type of sound) that makes you just feel so darn good. And they are one band that can pull their sound off live incredibly. I would recommend them to just about anyone. This was their first Ustream. I wasn’t sure what to expect and there were certainly times that felt awkward but overall I was sucked in. The hour was completely entertaining, for no real reason at all. It was like sitting at a q&a panel with the band, with 40 other people. You wrote questions or statements in the chat box and they responded. It is the perfect way to interact with fans, even my mom who knows nothing about them found the hour to be intriguing. We enjoyed developing questions, seeing what others had to say and hearing the bands replies.
I’ve always said the best thing about Twitter is a celebrity’s ability to interact with their fans. It’s a short and easy way to show the fans that their voice is heard. But Ustream took this a complete step further. I haven’t seen Everybody Else in two years, they are still working on their new album and it’s like today I got to catch up on everything they’ve been doing for the past two years. I got to reminisce and ask their lead singer Carrick if he remembered dancing in the streets with me and on top of my friends car in San Diego at the end of Hanson tour. I also was able to ask them about their PR team and found out that they are still working on developing one. Which lead me to the idea to start a new project and work on a proposal for Everybody Else. Technology makes my job so exciting. I took notes immediately after the Ustream to think of all the ways I could utilize this program with clients. And of course I wanted to share my experience with my favorite StyleBust readers, in hopes that you might find the people that you like on there. The nice thing about Ustream is you can sign in using your Facebook, Twitter, or Google accounts. In the future I will update on Facebook which Ustreams I’m tuning into. In the mean time I think its’ absolutely necessary that you all check out Everybody Else and as always you can follow me on Twitter and now on Ustream @MusicITZLife.