Sometimes, the emotion of a song is so palpable, that even the artist singing it gets choked up. This song from her most recent album of the same title, is beautiful, and certainly one of my favorite from the album, but this performance is just, wow. And she released a new version of it, much more stripped like this performance, and it is heartbreakingly beautiful. I love artists that are this talented, and still in touch with their journey and themselves. Kelly Clarkson is truly a music idol, not just the first American one.
Tag: american-idol
five song friday
5SF: november 20
by duane • • 4 Comments
Thank goodness it’s Friday; it means the weekend is almost here, and it also means that new music is coming your way via the 5SF! Today, there is a little bit of a celebration of the letter A; seeing as all of the songs featured today, are by artists whose names start with A (well, at least in some part). The A game was not intentional on my part, but hey, I’ll run with it; sometimes having an angle makes things more exciting. Let’s get down to business, shall we?
Amerie – Heard ‘Em All
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1120_amerie-heardemall.mp3]
I’ll admit I wasn’t a fan of Amerie at first. I initially found 1 Thing slightly off-putting because of the intensity, and the way she basically screamed the song at you. Well, a few years later, I heard the brilliant Take Control (which was on her last record, that apparently, wasn’t released in the US), which gave me new respect for Amerie; which translated into me even beginning to enjoy the (actually quite amazing) 1 Thing. Naturally, when I noticed that Amerie had released her new album In Love and War earlier this month (and especially after hearing this banging lead single) I had to check it out. There are several great tracks on it, and I have been playing this one in particular on repeat. Amerie’s music has a feel to it that lets you know it’s her right off the bat, and songs like this make me want to get out of my seat and dance around. The layered big band instruments and booming bass make this a track that is just begging to fill dance floors. The energy in this track is high, and with this new single, Amerie has come back to the States stronger than ever.
Alexandra Burke – Bad Boys
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1120_alexandraburke-badboys.mp3]
The first time I heard this song was a little over a month ago, and initially, while I did like it, I wasn’t blown away by it. However, after several subsequent listens, it has grown on me, and I have been enjoying this guilty pleasure more and more with each spin. This is one of those songs that would fit perfectly on US pop radio, but because it is a UK artist, the chances of that happening are ever so slim. However, I read that Alexandra (who won X-Factor last year, the year after Leona Lewis; one Brit who famously did make it to the top of the US pop charts) is actively working with several big names in the US music industry, in order to get her more exposure on this side of the pond. Only time will tell, but having Flo-Rida in the song certainly bodes well for her potentially topping charts in the states at some point in the near future (not that Flo-Rida is in any way a draw to this song for me whatsoever).
Adam Lambert – For Your Entertainment
audio removed
Alright, ladies and gents, here is the first single from American Idol runner up, Adam Lambert’s debut album of the same name (which is out next Tuesday). While I do admit that I was skeptical at first (seems to be a theme today) of this track, I realized that for me, it was in large part due to the hype surrounding Adam’s impending debut. I was a major fan of him on the show, mainly, because love him or hate him, there is absolutely no denying that this guy has some major singing talent. However, the pressure that winning or coming in second on AI puts on that contestant’s first release after the show is staggering; and given history, unfortunately equally disappointing. There have been very few American Idol alums that have truly delivered for me, and as such, I was nervous about what Adam would do with his debut. After giving this track enough of a chance to allow the stink of over-hype to wear off, I will say that I am definitely more optimistic about Adam’s debut album; the track is a real grower, and really highlights his insane singing voice. We’ll have to see if the rest of the album delivers, but for now, I’m definitely more excited to see what he has in store for us on Tuesday.
Lady Antebellum – Need You Now
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1120_ladyantebellum-needyounow.mp3]
I’ll admit, I don’t really like posting “big hits”; especially if they are in the top of the iTunes/Billboard charts. I enjoy focusing these 5SFs on stuff that people may not have heard before, or stuff that you might miss because its brilliance was (or would probably go on to be) vastly overlooked. There are notable exceptions (ahem, Lady GaGa’s Bad Romance last week), but for the most part, posting what’s burning up the charts (and the radio) isn’t the central point of these 5SFs. This may seem like a tangent, but I felt like I needed to clarify, because this is another notable exception; a song that I discovered because it was the top of the iTunes singles chart. I have heard of Lady Antebellum, but never really heard any of their music; mostly because I am not what I would consider a huge fan of country music. However, after seeing this song soar to the top of the singles chart, I had to least give it a listen, and least hear what it was about this track that made so many people want to buy it. After watching the video (ahem… the lead male singer is HOT), I instantly heard why it would jump to the top of that singles chart; this song is incredibly beautiful, the lyrics are eloquent, and the arrangement is masterfully crafted. I love the sweet and tender elements of this song, and I am glad that I gave it a listen; especially because of the fact that it’s unlikely I would have heard it otherwise. Sometimes, you find something at the top of the charts that you haven’t heard, and sometimes, it turns out to be wonderful; this is definitely one of those times.
David Gray feat. Annie Lennox – Full Steam
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1120_davidgray-fullsteam.mp3]
I found out about this collaboration from my friend Gregor, when he posted a video for the song on his facebook page. I actually downloaded the new David Gray CD, when it came out a while back, but because it wasn’t really meshing with me for whatever reason, I never got all of the way through it. It just so happens, that this is the last song on the CD, so I never heard it before seeing his post. Well, I’m glad that I gave it another listen, because Gregor introduced me to a truly beautiful collaboration by two extremely talented artists. I have been a fan of Annie Lennox for as long as I can remember, so seeing her name attached, only piqued my interest in the song that much more. I love the juxtaposition of their two very different vocals, and the inherent “David Gray” nature of the song (the something about all of his music that makes it almost unmistakably him) suits the pairing wonderfully. Thanks for pointing out this amazing gem of a song, Gregor!
So, there’s another set of songs for you to digest this week. Be sure to not only let me know what you thought (comments are love, people!), but also what you are listening to, and any suggestions for future 5SFs! Have a great weekend!
five song friday, listen up!, music musings, music suggestion, you tube
5SF: october 16
by duane • • 6 Comments
TGIF. This has been a four day week for me, but for whatever reason, every hour has felt like two, and it just seemed to go by really slowly. A good thing did come out of it, though, I found some AMAZING new songs to feature today, and I can’t wait for you to hear them. Let’s get started!
30 Seconds to Mars – Kings and Queens
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1016_30secondstomars-kingsandqueens.mp3]
I have been known to gush incessantly about some songs, but I try my best to reserve that for those that I am totally and utterly blow away by. Well, ladies and gents, this is one of those songs, and I am going to nothing short of tell everyone I know about this one. This song is immensely beautiful, and the arrangement is perfect. It is so good that I have to admit that I was actually kind of surprised by it. While I really liked their last album, this towers so high over anything they have done so far, that there really is no way that it wouldn’t take a fan even more diehard than myself by surprise. Don’t get me wrong, this is not a dig in any way to their previous work; they have some brilliant and amazing stuff out there already, but this song hits like the ultimate crescendo. Jared Leto’s voice soars alongside the building riffs and sends chills up my spine when he hits those high notes and sustains them so pitch perfectly. This takes everything they have done before and perfects it. I can’t heap enough praise on this track, and I cannot wait until their new album comes out; because if it is anything like this, it is going to be utterly brilliant. Simply put: AMAZING.
Robbie Williams – Bodies
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1016_robbiewilliams-bodies.mp3]
I had a bit of a twitter/facebook snafu yesterday when I proclaimed my love for this song; when I accidentally said I liked Robin Williams’ Bodies. Well, let’s clear that up; THIS is the Bodies that I am heaping my praise on (well, I wouldn’t mind heaping some praise on Robbie Williams’ (not Robin Williams) actual body, but that is topic for another time and another place). Overall, whenever Robbie releases a new single, I always want to like it, and sometimes I do, but when I first heard Bodies, I didn’t. I think it was the hard distortion sound that accompanies the beat that turned me off at first. However, I have heard it a few times, and now I see how wrong I was; this song is beautiful and I actually love the hard distortion completely now! I realize now that I didn’t give it the chance that it so rightly deserves. This song is catchy, the arrangement is excellent, and Robbie’s voice is as beautiful as ever.
The Saturdays – Lose Control
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1016_thesaturdays-losecontrol.mp3]
I don’t know which part I am in the most awe over, that the Saturdays released a whole new album just a year after their really great debut album, Chasing Lights, or that it’s probably an even better album than their first. Take this song for instance. Wow. Let me say that again, because it bears repeating, WOW. These girls have clearly taken all of the thunder both Girls Aloud and the (possibly new defunct?) Sugababes once had, and have channeled that tenacity into truly fantastic girl-group driven pop. I will admit that while the ho-hum first single (I’m not saying Forever is Over is bad necessarily, it just isn’t as good as every other thing they have done, IMHO), and the weird title (Wordshaker) of this album had me less than interested in downloading it, BUT after a few listens, I have to say that there isn’t a bad track on their new album. This song in particular blew me away, and I instantly wanted to hear it again once it ended. These ladies have proven to be some work horses, quickly and consistently turning out great pop albums, and based on the quality of work they keep releasing, I certainly hope they can sustain this momentum for a long time to come. Let’s just say that I have a strong feeling that their new album will be included in 2009’s annual countdown of my favorite albums.
Nelly Furtado – Manos Al Aire
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1016_nellyfurtado-manosalaire.mp3]
Some of you probably wonder why in the hell I would be posting a Spanish song, but trust me, this song took me by much more surprise than you could possibly have for me featuring it. I have had a love hate relationship with Nelly Furtado; mostly, I LOVE all of her older stuff that I felt was more “her style”, and I practically HATE everything she did with Timbaland. I remember when Promiscuous came out, and I really liked it at first. However, that quickly turned to disdain, because with each subsequent single, I felt the Nelly I instantly fell in love with back in 2001 with I’m Like a Bird was completely gone. That troubled me, and as such, I kind of started ignoring her. It wasn’t until I saw the video (I HIGHLY recommend you go and watch it) for Manos Al Aire (with subtitles!), that I remembered why I fell in love with her in the first place. I LOVE the arrangement of the song (old Nelly is back!), the vocals are spot on, and the writing (both the Spanish, and their translation) is beautiful. I have always thought Nelly was a great song writer, and with this song, she has gotten back to her roots; and most importantly, shown me that there is still more to her than Timbaland’s productions. Whatever language she sings in, Nelly Furtado has proven to me once again, that she is a talented musician.
Katharine McPhee – Say Goodbye
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1016_katharinemcphee-saygoodbye.mp3]
Even though I am a fan of American Idol, I can’t say that there are many of those kids that I avidly kept following after they left the show. Katharine McPhee is one of the notable exceptions. After delivering an amazing, if not totally ignored (well, except by me, of course), debut album, she was dropped from her record label. Thankfully, she got herself a new record deal. While I was lukewarm about the first single, Had It All, I was instantly reminded of why I love Katharine so much with Say Goodbye; her singing is effortless. Honestly, I think it is a shame that she isn’t as famous as other female singers that can deliver the caliber of performance she has consistently delivered. This song is incredibly beautiful in tone, arrangement, writing, and of course, Katharine’s effortlessly delivered vocal. She may not have won her season of American Idol, but she definitely won a fan for life in me. I can’t wait for Unbroken to be released early next year.
So there’s your Friday five for this week. What did you think? Please let me know!! Also, please let me know what you are listening to; I’ve always got my ear out for wonderful music!
five song friday, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion, school
5SF: june 26
by duane • • 0 Comments
JESUS it is hot. HOT HOT HOT!!!! I can’t get over how hot it already is this year; it just makes me want to stay indoors at all times. Other than the heat, I got some good news today: I filed for residency at KSU, and it was accepted!! Now… to get into the nursing program… baby steps… But enough about that; it’s time for today’s five songs!
Gossip – Pop Goes The World
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_626_gossip-popgoestheworld.mp3]
Holy song of the summer, Batman! Seriously, this one is going to make the hot months much more bearable. I have posted about the Gossip in the past, because I absolutely love the unique and powerful voice of the amazing Beth Ditto. Well, they released their newest album, Music For Men, this week, and so far, this is my favorite track on the album. This song is almost impossible not to dance and sing to; I love the tribal drumming and sticky sweet backing synth. I LOVE the crescendo the song grows to at about 1:25 in; it is epic!
Wave Machines – I Go I Go I Go
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_626_wavemachines-igoigoigo.mp3]
Another free song offered on the UK iTunes, I Go I Go I Go is a fresh, and hip dance rock track for summer as well. It really reminds me of awesome bands like Vampire Weekend, and even the Lightning Seeds. This track is as fresh as recently laid out produce, and I have been loving it more and more with each listen. I LOVE when I find random, awesome tracks like this. Thanks UK iTunes (even though I couldn’t buy it/get it for free like the other UKers)!
Safetysuit – Annie
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_626_safetysuit-annie.mp3]
This one is a “discovered while my ipod was running on shuffle” track. I added Safetysuit’s album, Life Left To Go, a while ago, but I hadn’t gotten around to a real listen. This track really stood out to me during the shuffle, and hearing talent like this really confuses me even more why people still love bands like Nickelback. If you like their “style”, Safetysuit is doing it, only better, and without the repetition (admit it, all of Nickelback’s songs are the same!! Stop the madness people!). I, for one, am glad that I found Safetysuit, and this great track (which really reminds me of what I LOVE about Our Lady Peace; the story telling, unique male vocals, and blaring distorted guitars). I only wish Safetysuit were getting the publicity that NB is.
Michael Johns – Heart On My Sleeve
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_626_michaeljohns-heartonmysleeve.mp3]
I’m going to be totally honest: I didn’t care very much that he was even in the top 10 on American Idol. Yes, I thought he could sing beautifully, but since he wasn’t a “front runner” in my eyes, it was easy for me to ignore him. However, being that I definitely think AI has gained a really credible means of spotting true talent over the seasons, I wanted to check out his release when I saw it on iTunes earlier this week. Well, this song, the first track off of the album, has all of the vocal grittiness of Daughtry, with a tendency to lean more towards a Take That style (not to mention that it sounds A LOT like their amazing track, Rule the World). Overall, if for no other reason that I found this great track, I’m glad that I gave Michael another chance.
Alexisonfire – Burial
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_626_alexisonfire-burial.mp3]
At this point, there really shouldn’t be any surprise to any of you how deep my love for Dallas Green (aka City and Colour) runs. Be that as it may, Dallas sings in Alexisonfire, a post-hardcore band, which, I have to say, is NOT my cup of tea. After hearing City and Colour, it is almost a shock that Dallas is even a driving force in Alexisonfire at all. However, they released a new album this week, and with the last track on the album, Dallas injected a MAJOR dose of his folk sensibility into the record, and I couldn’t be more elated, as it is a gorgeous song. I’m glad that Dallas tenderized at least one track on the album, because it gives folk lovers like me a chance to love something about a band that I probably wouldn’t otherwise listen to.
Well, there you have it! Five fresh tracks that are definitely music to my ears; what about to yours? Let me know what you liked or didn’t like, and as always, please tell me what you are listening to.
I feel compelled to say, that no, I did not feel the need to post any Michael Jackson songs, as I am not what I would consider, a fan of his music. I liked some songs, but nothing to the level of “love”, so I didn’t feel any need to stretch that, just because of his death. Anyway, there really isn’t anything that I could “introduce” you to about his music, which is kind of the point of the 5SF in the first place, so there we go.
Have a great weekend, and STAY COOL!
five song friday, listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion, venting
5SF: february 13
by duane • • 2 Comments
Eeek! Friday the 13th! Okay, so maybe not; it’s just a superstition that was turned into a series of horror movies, right? Either way, I have had a pretty decent day, and the weather is amazing outside, AND I am going into a 3 day weekend, so I am pretty happy about it. I have to say, that I love doing these five song Fridays, because it is like a “welcome to the weekend!!!!”, and there is no way that could be anything other than awesome, right?! Well, let’s get to it then, shall we!?
Alesha Dixon – Breathe Slow
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_213_aleshadixon-breatheslow.mp3]
This song has hit written all over it. The first couple of times I heard it, I knew that there was something about it I kind of liked, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. Well, after massive rotation on BBC Radio 1, I have fallen head over heels in love with this track, and had to feature it this week. Alesha Dixon had some success in the UK in the R&B girl band Mis-Teeq, but recently released quite a decent solo album. This is by far my favorite song on the album, and I am thankful to BBC Radio 1 for turning me on to this great track! Also, best of luck to Alesha as she heads to Africa to scale Mt Kilimanjaro for Malaria relief!
Lady GaGa – Fashion
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_213_ladygaga-fashion.mp3]
Alright, if you don’t get it by now, Lady GaGa is massive. HUGE. I have been screaming about her for almost a year now, and I am so pleased to see her getting the attention she deserves. Well, it seems like her steam engine has caught on fire, as there are all kinds of tracks spilling onto the tracks these days. The most recent is this amazing song from the Confessions of a Shopaholic soundtrack, appropriately called (and all about) Fashion. Lady GaGa’s blend of dance-pop is such a great, upbeat sound that it is hard not to bounce about when listening to great pop songs like this one. I’m glad that she released it, instead of Heidi Montag, which was what I had seen swirling around the internets. Hooray for new GaGa! Also, if it is going to all be this good, keep it coming!
Morrissey – I’m Throwing My Arms Around Paris
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_213_morrissey-imthrowingmyarms.mp3]
Now, I know that this will probably piss someone off, but normally, Morrissey just bores me. Now, that doesn’t mean that he isn’t a fabulous artist, but for whatever reason, his voice usually hits the “go to sleep” button in my brain, and I have to shut it off. However, with this new song, Morrissey has made me sit up and pay attention; with my eyes and ears wide open! It’s peppy, fun, and the video is down right cute! It makes me wonder where the depressive Morrissey has gone; although, the lyrics definitely have his typical sardonic twist, but this time, they are juxtaposed with a, dare I say it, upbeat pop backing track! I must declare that I love this song, and I might have to go back through his catalog and see if I can find other moments that are as peppy as this song is.
Joanna Pacitti – 4th of July
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_213_joannapacitti-4thofjuly.mp3]
Okay, I’ll admit it. I watch American Idol. Mostly, I like to see who’s good and who isn’t, and by the time they get to the top 12, it is all gravy because most of those kids are pretty good. Well, with the recent crop, there was this one chick who stood out; both because she had a great singing voice, and also because there was a lot of press about her having a record deal prior to her auditioning this season. Well, it all came to a head, and unfortunately got her the boot from the show, which kinda sucks I guess, because she had made it to the top 36 as of this week. Well, I was talking to my friend John last night about her previous records, and he informed me of a song she did for the Legally Blonde soundtrack that was actually quite good. After listening to that song, we headed to iTunes, and low and behold, they have some of her songs (although not that particular one… poop), and this one struck me instantly. It is brilliantly sung and totally beautiful. I hate that Joanna got booted from AI, but I hope that the publicity can get her back on track to making more great music like this. Keep going Joanna, and don’t give up!!
Lily Allen – He Wasn’t There
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_213_lilyallen-hewasntthere.mp3]
Oh Lily, how I have missed thee!!! Ever since I saw her in concert a couple of years ago (check out the pictures!), I have been a massive fan. Well, after there was word that she would be releasing a new album at the beginning of this year, I began to get more and more excited to see what Ms. Allen would have in store for us on her second record. After the release of the massive single, The Fear, my anticipation only grew, because I knew that I was going to be getting more of the Lily that I had fallen in love with on her debut. Well, as I mentioned last week, her album came out this week, and more great Lily Allen is exactly what I got. I love a lot of the songs on the album, even if they borrow heavily and sample heavily several other popular songs through the ages, and this one is definitely one of my favorites. I love that “playing on an old record” scratchy sound, and as always, her lyrics will make you smile and really show her writing ability to be pretty keen. I’m glad that her album is so good, and I am glad that it is finally out; I was tired of waiting! Also, as a heads up, I just noticed that on Amazon.com, they has It’s Not Me, It’s You
So there’s another five songs on this very nice Friday for you. I hope you enjoyed them as much as I enjoyed bringing them to you! Now, let me know what you thought, and as always, tell me what you are listening to!! You never know when you will see it on the list!
"pointless", all about me, friends, happenings, is it just me?, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion, podcast, the catch-all-egory, venting
just a few random thoughts
by duane • • 17 Comments
- Last night, I was invited to partake in a great “bad beer” podcast, and it was a LOT of fun. I really miss hanging out with the people that were a part of it (my old trivia group for the most part), and it was great to finally meet one of the bloggers I have known URL for a while in person. I hope that we get to do more of those types of things in the future. It was funny that our podcast was talking about how bad chelada style beer was, when I am kind of a fan of Miller Chill. In fact, I actually really like it… so long as it is cold. The other beers we tried (Bud Light Lime, Tequiza, and Michelob Ultra Lime and Cactus) were all gross. I’ll let you know when the podcast is up, and you can here the silly fun we had drinking bad beers.
- I have been having random fits of sneezing. The allergies in Atlanta are nuts, and this year is no exception. I guess there is something to be said about consistency; regardless of how annoying it may be sometimes.
- On Tuesday night, I went out to dinner with some friends at a new local restaurant, and I did something that I have not done in a LONG time… I left the waiter zero tip. Hear me out… I waited tables for 5+ years at various restaurants, all of which served alcohol. I have NEVER in my life ever told someone that they had to pay for a drink that they determined to be undrinkable. In fact, I often apologized for something that I had no part in; I never was a bartender, and I never made those drinks. However, we always made it right, and made sure the customer was happy each and every time. I ordered a drink that was absolutely disgusting (which shouldn’t have been), and it was a simple bar mistake. I stand by the fact that this is something that I should not have had to pay for; yet, he made me pay for the drink (even though he took the totally full beverage and poured it out). Unfortunately for this establishment, this is a lesson that I have learned about that place, and as such I will not be drinking there ever again; which pretty much means it has moved itself to the bottom of my list of places to go eat. It sucks too, because being a local restaurant, I really want to support it, but I can’t control how restaurants treat their patrons. Having been a waiter myself, I put up with A LOT of mistakes without saying a word, but this was just ridiculous. Oh well… there is sure to be a yelp review to come about the experience!
- I have to say, that I was a little surprised by who won AI last night. Oh well, the proof is in the pudding; we’ll see when they release their records, right?! George Michael’s performance on the show was AMAZING. Also, is it me, or is Carrie Underwood completely unstoppable? I mean, she is F-I-E-R-C-E fierce! Not only is she beautiful, but she can sing the shit out of anything!! Maybe I need to download her records…
- Speaking of amazing music, the song that I featured last week, Just Dance, by Lady Gaga, is one of the most amazing songs ever. Seriously, this song is going to be my song of the summer. I have had it on repeat since last week… Loves it.
- That’s about it… I guess. Anything going on with you that you want to talk about?? Anything questions you want to ask me that are just burning in your brain? Let me know!
is it just me?, listen up!, mixed media, music musings, well?, wtf?!
for some, believing clearly isn’t enough…
by duane • • 2 Comments
Let me start this post by saying that I generally love the UK’s X-factor; after all, they gave me one of the loves of my life, Mr. Shayne Ward. Not only that, they followed him with the amazing Leona Lewis, who’s Bleeding Love is a song that I still have in heavy rotation; months after I initially heard it. However, with all that good, there too can come some bad. Even though I heard that this year’s winner Leon Jackson was to cover When You Believe, the amazing song from the Prince of Egypt that was originally sung by none other than the divas Mariah and Whitney, I had somehow avoided hearing his version, that is, until recently. It came on U-Pop the other day, and I listened, in order to hear the magnificence that the UK had chosen to win X-Factor. Instead of being impressed, I was horrified.
Not only does he clearly lack the same level of talent that Shayne and Leona possess, but his singing voice doesn’t even seem to be at a level higher than amateur. Not to be mean to the poor kid, but seriously, this is just a bad cover of an otherwise great song.
This brings me to my other gripe: Whomever chose When You Believe as the song that the winner would sing is either a sadist, or just an asshole; because if you are going to do a song that Mariah and Whitney did beautifully, the only way to do it successfully, is to do it better (which that, in and of itself, would be a difficult task indeed). Even without the powerhouse divas singing the original, what on earth were they thinking handing this enormous song to an “undiscovered talent”? Wow. To me, this is just a recipe for disaster, and makes a situation that only sheer luck could bail them out of. Unfortunately, the likable, and in my opinion, much more talented brother-sister group Same Difference did NOT win X-Factor, so we cannot know whether or not their version of the song would be superior to Leon’s; but one thing I do know, is that his version is almost un-listenable. But don’t just take my word for it, see (or rather, hear) for yourself.
First, I give you the Mariah and Whitney version; which is in my opinion, a flawless pop song. It is well written, and their voices compliment each other beautifully. Also, need I even mention that it is fucking Mariah and Whitney, which again, begs to question why one would ever try to cover something that big, unless they KNOW for certain they can do it better?
Now, check out Leon’s version of When You Believe (sorry, but the real video can’t be embedded). I can’t believe they went there, to be honest. I guess it is a little like Leona’s version of A Moment Like This (which is quite terrible as well, but she has managed to distance herself from it quite well), if you have heard a superior version of the song several years in advance of some practical nobody doing a sub-par version of it, what is the fucking point of them doing it at all? There are TONS of songs out there he could have covered; so why this one?
Oh well, we can never know what prompts these producers to rehash the same pop trinkets on other shores, but I can hope that future incarnations of shows like X-Factor, and even the dwindling American Idol, can manage to pull out some better songs, suited for the potential winners. If they are going to stick with sending these poor singers out there with rehashed, sub-par covers, can they at least pick some songs that they would be better suited for? Clearly, in this case, that did not happen at all. I just don’t think that we should have more tragedies like this one, littering the airwaves, and making my ears cringe when I hear them. Clearly, believing that you can sing the song better does not mean that you actually can. Poor Leon…
listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion, the catch-all-egory
the 31 best of 2007 – 28: Katharine McPhee – Katharine McPhee
by duane • • 11 Comments
Before I get to talking about the lovely Katharine McPhee, I have a question; would you guys that are following my list like me to add or subtract anything from these posts? I could add a song or two, or something like that. Just give me some feedback! We are a few entries in, and I want to see what people think; good or bad, let me know!
Alright, now to Katharine’s self titled CD, which comes in at number 28 on my best of 2007 list!
Like many other Americans, I have always found myself somehow sucked into the spectacle that is American Idol, and every year, I say that I won’t do it again; either because of the results, or the sheer absurdity of the competition itself. However, the year that Katharine McPhee
Even though Katharine didn’t win AI, which I think may have been a benefit for her, she still hit the top two spots, which guarantees a record contract. However, after listening to her debut album, I have to think that since she came in second, she wasn’t obligated to make that “AI-winner record”. This is substantiated again, by what she released, and I must say, that I am glad she didn’t win; it is a great record. The songs are catchy, well written, and clearly showcase her beautiful voice and great singing ability. If you like pop music, you will really like this CD, because not only does she have a voice for pop, but they teamed her up with great producers and writers that were able to capture her talent.
There are many songs on the record that have a great upbeat feel, which is refreshing, since they tend to force these idols to sing ballad after sappy ballad. While there are definitely some ballads there, I am glad to see that they let her have a little fun. Some of the songs are just down right silly (Open Toes), but they work for Katharine, because she really convinces you that she is just a girl out to have some fun during a night out; mostly because she IS a girl that wants to have fun on a night out! There’s a reason many of these more uptempo songs work; they snagged great producers, such as Timbaland’s amazing protege Danja to work on them. As a friend of mine said about a few of those songs, “you don’t want to like them, but you can’t help it, because dammit, they ARE fun, and they do get you moving!”. It is so true, and it really is pretty consistent throughout her entire debut. Given what is going on throughout the rest of the world with regards to pop music, I have to say it: America doesn’t have a great track record for doing proper pop. Fortunately for us, Katharine McPhee’s debut is a huge check in the plus column of what good pop should be.
Finally, I must say again, that Katharine’s debut record really speaks highly of coming in second on AI; because (as evidenced by her record) you may not be trapped by that “tried and true” formula that they force on every idol winner. With her release, she has a record that is filled to the brim with radio ready singles, and even a few truly great songs that are ready for the club. I have loved her voice from the moment I heard her sing, and thanks to a brilliant album, I can enjoy it over and over again on my ipod. It is great to see a truly talented singer utilized for her ability; this truly is a great pop record, and I am very happy to have found it.
Favorite songs from Katharine McPhee’s self titled debut:
Love Story (one of the best singles of the year IMHO), Not UR Girl, Open Toes, Over It, and Home. (clicky-clicky linky-linky for youtube videos)
Rating: 
get involved, is it just me?, listen up!, mixed media, tragic, venting, well?
what does idol REALLY give back?
by duane • • 19 Comments
Last night, I went over to my buddy John’s to watch the spectacle that was “Idol Gives Back”, a charity event where every celebrity they could muster showed up in support of “raising awareness” for people in need. The focus, was raising money to give to kids in Africa, as well as those still in need here in America (did someone say Katrina?). While I honestly want to believe that their hearts were in the right place, this absurd spectacle of “giving back” just made me angrier and angrier as the show wore on. Basically, they showed clip after clip of celebrities going to Africa, walking through the ghettos, and showing these poor unfortunate souls (Ursula!) suffering and dying in the slums.
Now, I am all for charity. In fact, I am all for the raising of awareness. I am all for giving to these people, because they need us. BUT, I am not okay with this dog and pony show parading these kids around in this manner. For the first hour of the program, they didn’t even say AIDS. Now, I understand that the “general” public doesn’t want to hear about the reality of AIDS in Africa, but the fact is, it is real. It isn’t going to go away if you throw a few million dollars at it. To say that it will enrich lives and make things all better is a lie, and that is what is wrong with what happened last night. Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest sitting in a one roomed house with a boy of twelve telling him to “just let it out” because he was sad that his parents were both dead was sickening. To top it off, they didn’t even address the fact that this kid’s parents likely died as a result of AIDS.
I truly want to believe that all of these celebrities give tons of money to help rid the world of poverty. I really want to believe that American Idol’s true motive behind this was nothing other than philanthropic; but it wasn’t. Even Ryan Seacrest said it, and said it well, “PART of the proceeds will go to charity”. If they were serious about helping these people in need, then all of it would go to charity. The POINT of the event was to raise money for charity, so where is the other PART going?
Additionally, if I see one more fucking celebrity “slumming” it up in Africa, surrounded by little AIDS infected orphans, saying how the antiretroviral drugs will save their lives and allow them to live happier and healthier lives, I will throw something at the fucking TV. Yes, Madonna, Bono, all of you, I am talking to YOU. Just because you put on a ragged t-shirt, go make-up-less on TV, and talk about how our $1 donation will “save lives”, doesn’t mean that it will. What it does mean, is that you are even further out of touch with reality than I would have ever believed possible. When you get on your private jet to fly home to your 15,000 square foot home, think about this: The only thing that will truly save these children is a continuous stream of money and support that doesn’t show up and then disappear. Spectacles like this merely shine a light on a problem that has been around for decades, and once that light goes out, and the show ends, the focus again dims, and the problem continues to get worse.
If they really wanted to do something lasting, do something good, and do something for these people, this would not be an “awareness” raising event; it would be a daily practice. These celebrities have more money than anyone else, and they have the gall to stand there and ask people to give and give and give some more. I think that we should all give, and I know that many of them do as well, but ask yourself; isn’t a bit hypocritical to live in your mansions on the top of the hill, and point out to the middle and lower class the plight of poverty throughout the world? Do you even know what it means to live paycheck to paycheck?
I would love for every problem in the world to be solved by a night of seeing Josh Groban surrounded by African children, and people calling in to donate money, PART of which will be given to charity. But over simplifying their problems by saying things like, “all they need is a $10 net to stop malaria”, and “if they could just get the antiretroviral HIV drugs, then their lives would be great” is disturbingly misleading. If you really want to do some good, focus on getting that money, ALL of it, to these people, and find a way to make sure that the focus does not wane; otherwise, you have done it in vain. The only way to stop AIDS is to talk about it and maintain a focus on it EVERYDAY. Events like this are a flash in the pan, and in the long run do practically nothing for the people suffering. This seriously frustrates the shit out of me.
</end rant>
all about me, hotness, listen up!, mixed media, music musings, near and dear, politics, the catch-all-egory, venting
the wednesday run-down
by duane • • 14 Comments
Today, there are 5 distinct thoughts running through my head, so I thought I would give you a run down. In summation, here it is: 1) come on Dems!, 2) get this CD NOW, 3) examining relationships, 4) buying too much stuff?, and finally 5) comments on TV things. Let’s get started, but let’s keep it brief.
First of all, most people don’t think that I am critical (enough) of the Democrats actions. They are wrong. This is just great; now we can EXPECT an attack on Iran. Why were these guidelines abandoned? This just seems to keep getting worse and worse; if we don’t at least put caps and regulations on things, then things will continue to go in the same direction, and there will be NO changes. That can’t be allowed to happen! We need to send a message, that is LOUD and CLEAR to the president; no more occupation! No more war! Things just seem to be idling along, while real action needs to be taken. This is seriously disappointing, to say the least. UGH. We need some people that will take real action, fast.
In lighter fare, I am proud to announce the American release of a GREAT UK artist’s sophomore disc, entitled Back to Black. It is none other than the fantastical Amy Winehouse, and you must do yourself a favor and buy this CD today. It is only $8 at Target and Best Buy, and it is definitely $8 well spent. Let’s show our appreciation for bringing great artists to our shores, rather than leaving them as imports. Amy’s voice is an old classic voice, much like Billy Holiday, and it has power, class, soul, and life. The music is fantastic, like a hip hop jazz, and you will enjoy this if you enjoy great music. Do yourself a favor and pick it up today!
Relationships. UGH. Sometimes they are great. Sometimes they suck. Sometimes you realize that certain relationships in your life are not worth fighting for, but for whatever reason, they go on, because you let them. You don’t want yourself to be like them, so you do your part; even when they don’t do theirs. All that leads to is frustration, and the occasional cryptic portion of a blog post. I am just wondering what I will do next time they take it upon themselves to call. Perhaps I will just let it go for months on end, as it seems they prefer to do themselves; or maybe I will do what I did this time, and just suck it up, and sit through another fake attempt to maintain something that isn’t really there in the first place. Oh well… we’ll see. Relationships can really take it out of you. Thank God for the good ones.
I spent a lot of money yesterday and goodies that made me feel better. Sometimes, you just gotta pull out that card and swipe it. I am glad that I did, but I need to calm down. This is kind of a suggestion and a reminder of that need. Retail therapy! WOO!
Finally, I just want to say this, if you watch 24, were you not extremely excited that Martha came back this week? Even more than that, can you BELIEVE what she did to Logan?!?!? I LOVE YOU JEAN SMART!!!! YAY! Also, if that Sanjaya Malakar makes it through, I will be PISSED. Melinda, girl, you are my favorite, and I hope you win. Lastly, I wouldn’t mind having a three-way (or a four way if James wants in) with Chris Richardson and Blake Lewis. Those boys are hot AND they can sing!
Hope everyone is having a great hump day! That’s the run-down! I’m out!