Here are a list of the songs that are on heavy rotation on my iPod and my Spotify account (BTW, there will be a ost about this great, great program, I promise!). In no particular order:
1. "Radioactive", Imagine Dragons. I mentioned it on a previous post, and I will say it again; this is golden pop. This group, although indie on their basis, made such a great pop electronica blend in this track, that it's irresistibly delicious. The video, I'm no fan of it, but it's fun nonetheless. I predict great things for this band if they continue on this route. Amazing, haunting and provocative song.
2. "Get Lucky", Daft Punk. The return of this excellent electronica band,after a 3 year hiatus, is salted with an ode to the pop made at the end of the disco era and the beginning of the 80's. Like I said on a post on the You Tube video: "It's kinda ironic that this song, with a sound so reminiscing of said era, sounds so feriouciously refreshing among the bland pop of the Justins, Rihannas and Harlems out there". And I stand for that sentence. This is the sound of an iconic band.
3. "Come & Get It", Selena Gomez. I know, I know, Selena is pre-manufactured, Justin Bieber's hearthtrob, how on earth, bla, bla, bla. And yet, this song is so infectious with their Indian influences and slick move dances courtesy of this fine young lady. Many people would say this is a desperate attempt to stay relevant in a market filled with easy-forgettable pop young acts; I say, for a girl that is developing a sense of growing up without betraying her roots, this is a great pop song, as it is.
4. "I Love It", Icona Pop. There's a fact that states some of the best dance music comes from Sweden. So it's no surprise that this duo of girls stormed the scene with this club banger, rightfully entitled "I Love It", aware of the meaning of that phrase. We really came to love this song. Really powerful, and of course this is only the beginning for these girls. To get ready for the dancefloor.
5. "White Noise", Disclosure Feat. AlunaGeorge. Granted, EDM is taking over the world one beat at a time. So DJ's are now the rock stars of this era. And this duo of UK DJ's did a great job with this gorgeous song. Mesmerizing since the first listen, it goes well for both club hungers and indie folks alike, who would appreciate the take of Aluna George and the lyrics. A really playful and marvelous track.
6. "Can't Hold Us", Macklemore & Ryan Lewis Feat. Ray Dalton. Some people would accuse this this singer of being another cheap and lame Eminem impersonator. I said: "back off!" This is the real deal. Macklemore sure is clever and current, and his music is actually cool, giving odes to some old school a-la 70's music. This song, appropiately using a black guy on the chorus, gives me a warm sensation and made me feel good when I listen to it. And that what songs should do for us.
7. "Sail", AWOLNATION. Definitely not my type of music, but there's a hypnotic quality on this song that it is imposible to resist. Rock and electronic music always make a great combo, and this epic song futher proofs that corollary, and then some. Not a geniune blast like other songs, and it get a few listens to be liked, but this is something you better not overlook.
8. "#thatPOWER", Will.i.Am Feat. Justin Bieber. Everything that Will did wrong with Britney, now it is done well, except for the horrendous title (seriously, people should stop using the # sign, it only looks well on Twitter). Justin sounds decent, but the production of this sure-to-be pop anthem for the 2013 summer is spot on, and the video is really amazing, with the choreography and all. Again, not the best song out there, just a funny one.
9. "Suit & Tie", Justin Timberlake Feat. Jay Z. Now a married man, this fine gentleman is delivering some serious music that still manages to sound cool and breezy - the 'breezy' part courtsey of the music mogul Jay Z. The beginning of the song could well be on the loop of my iPhone ad-infinitum, and the video is really well executed and precious, on a black-and-white motif. All in all, a great comeback for Justin.
10. "Poetic Justice", Kendrick Lamar. The only thing that does for me in this song? The Janet Jackson simple from "Any Time, Any Place" song. Whatever thet has Janet's signature on it, it's a yes-yes-yesss on my book. And if it is as clever as it is in this song, that's a bonus. And of course, Drake, that man is ubiquitous, and rightfully so. He's so tight in all these collabos, really amazing.
Hope you like them all!
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Fashion disasters at the MET Gala?? And a Kylie and Madonna reunion, why not??
I'm not a fashion expert, but this morning I saw some pictures of the MET Gala 2013, a yearly event that takes place obviously on The Metropolitan's Museum and gathers the creme of the creme of Hollywood. And of course, this being a fashion event, you would think people would be more aware of what they dress because this is THE event for it. Not even The Oscars had this exposure regarding fashion, but judging from the pics I've seen, so many people definitely missed the mark, dropped the ball or didn't read the memo, whatever analogy works best for you.
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Apparently, that grim face was part of the Kristin Stewart attire.
The theme of the night was Punk: Chaos to Couture, because there has to be a theme in these things. And obviously, punk was the attitude all the attendants needed to demonstrate through their clothes and all. Some of them got the look right, and definitely showed the fashionista that lies within them.
Emma Watson and Miranda Kerr, being cute and fierce.
Rooney Mara
Jennifer Lawrence, Emma Watson, Anne Hathaway & Taylor Swift
Kylie Minogue, being Kylie Minogue. That is, regal.
What these artists show was a very good sense of simplicity, a thing not too many of the Hollywood stars are known for. And obviously, it worked. Those gals looked amazing and although some of them (like Jennifer Lawrence) were not as punk as they should, they definitely hit the mark and passed the fashion test.
Others? Not so much.
Kim Kardashian:
Seriously, this woman knows no limits. Whoever that said pregnant woman can't be fashionistas, obviously got inspired by this woman. I mean, not nitpicking her weight (it is obvious that a pregnant woman can be that big), but using a dress that accentuates you weight is just plain wrong. It looked like a table cloth, and a cheap one.
...or a sofa. With an integrated cushion
She knows that there's a thousand ways a pregnant woman can deliver on the red carpet, but she seems to think nobody will notice this mess of a dress. Or maybe she knows and she's teasing us. Either way, this is not the look of an entepreneur and a 'celebrity' (not sure how to call her), so this will go into history as an utterly failure. Again, it's not her body weight, it's the way she didn't accept it as an aside from being pregnant.
Nicki Minaj
Obviously, Ms. Minaj is particularly known for her fashion style, bordering into the ridiculousness. So a MET Gala inspired in punk could seem like a perfect setting for a bold statement on her part. Instead, she definitely missed the mark by being way too tame by her own standards, let alone the punk standards. Afro looked way out of tune, and definitely this attire didn't look well on her. Maybe it's the waistline. She looked so out of place. And I hope one day women understand that those tatoos don't look so well on dresses (looking at you, Rihanna).
Beyoncé
Beyoncé is Beyoncé, a force of nature to be reckoned with. And yet, this is so dissapointing. Aside from the fact that this is not punk at all (being punk an attitude more than a dress), it seemed a little bit excessive from her. And God, I'm not sure if those dark hair roots are on trend now, but they look so awful. She can do better than this.
Madonna
I really, really love Madonna. Why wouldn't I? But this? Let's face it: she is no longer a thirty something to rock these outfits, and although she looks fit and glam, this is way too much for her to handle nowadays. For a woman with a punk and fuck you attitude, this comes cheap and underwhelming. And the bob, so much Edna Mode resembling, was also something so wacky. But then, who can assure this is what Madge intended for it to be? If that's what she was all about, well, mission accomplished.
Ashley Olsen
Now, entering the realms of the ludicrous. Like a moth to a flame.... This has written 'absurd' all over the place. This posture tries to make sense for this dress, but God it's awful. I know she's rich and all, and this is vintage and all, but seriosly, can someone advice these young starlets regarding haute couture, please? Won't somebody think of the children??
Of course there were plenty of dreadful dresses, but these are the ones that really drive me to write on this subject. I'm not usually a savvy fashionista (I don't consider my style fashion as a 'style', per se) but I know what looks good and bad on myself and others.
A corollary for this Gala: if Lena Dunham somehow manages to look better than you, consider it a big fail on your personal style.
I wonder if she can manage those high heels.
And get this consolation prize: Madonna and Kylie Minogue, together in this gala. Pop royalty on the same roof! Amazing, isn't it? The Queen and The Princess of Pop. Besides the fact that Madonna's boy toy photobombed the pic blocking Kylie, this is pure bliss right here.
Seriously, whats-his-name. You're blocking a historical moment. Shit head.
Who was the best and the worst dressed for you on this Gala? Sound off in the comments!
Monday, April 22, 2013
Garbage in concert... and what else can I ask for??
By now it should be clear that one of my favorite bands in the world for many years have been Garbage. And no doubt when I heard they were returning to Monterrey for a full concert after that tease @ the MTV World Stage, I prepared myself for the showdown, this time solely devoted to them. And quite a show it was!!
The date: April 16th, 2013
The place: Arena Monterrey, Monterrey, Mexico
The setlist:
1. Automatic Systematic Habit
2. I Think I'm Paranoid
3. Blood For Poppies
4. Hammering in My Head
5. Control
6. Why Do You Love Me
7. Queer
8. #1 Crush
9. Battle In Me
10. Cup Of Coffee
11. Special
12. The One
13. Cherry Lips (Go Baby Go!)
14. The Trick Is To Keep Breathing
15. When I Grow Up
16. Only Happy When It Rains
17. Vow
18. Beloved Freak
19. Push It
20. Stupid Girl
21. You Look So Fine
It's incredible the amount of energy these guys have, at their age (Duke Erikson is 62), something having to do with the great chemistry they have as a band. Definitely, they looked the part while on the stage and didn't dissappoint at any minute. With the banging start "Automatic Systematic Habit", they made it clear that this was NOT a night where you have to be sitted.
Shirley Manson is a veteran at this point in life on stage, and certainly made it clear from the beggining. Although she really made some long speeches that I'm positive half of the arena didn't understand, she is obviously in love with Mexico and mexican culture. They made a contest where you have tomade any form of art resembling two very mexican things: Frida Kahlo (she declared to be a fan of her work) or "Día de Muertos" (All Souls Day). And basically, through various assertions, she declared all the thing that made her so attached to our roots, and I appreciated that, for being a nice and a really genuine gesture.
We had the chance to revisit the greatest hits of this magnificient band, as well as songs from their last album. But really, their catalogue is just breathtaking. Hit after hit, the sounds of the people were mixed with those from the instruments morphing into a wave of emotions that flowed all over the place. This music trascends time and space, and effectively teleported us into a world I'd like to call "BeautifulGarbage", as the name of their third album, and the best in my opinion.
There were only a screen behind them projecting videos and collages, and a very decent set of lights. The show was very simple in its manufacturing, but who does it need all that paraphernalia if you have this type of band? Seriously. And they delivere every single note and every single riff as if there's no tomorrow. This is the work of a band that definitely don't take things for granted and show the appreciation for their fans. And I'm humbly thankful for that.
For me, the nostalgia was present since the first song. After listening to them when I was just a teenager (oh, those were the days), this reminded me simpler times and the fact that this was the soundtrack of one of the most special stages of my life. Maybe this would sound melodramatic, but their music was a constant presence during those years, and it is unforgettable. So for me, this band is beyond a "flavor of the moment" band to a "cult" band, if you like.
So definitely it was an awesome concert. And definitely I have proof of that. You are more than welcome to dropping my You Tube page, where you can find the entirety of this show (the whole thing!) It is my duty to let people know how inspiring and commited this band is on stage, and why they have remained as a part of my life with their music.
So please, enjoy it!
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Stupid Sexy Dubstep
You know when you say you hate one thing and then you discover this thing is the best thing since slice bread and then you fall in love with it and you don't want to, reluctantly getting away from it and then all of your thoughts and dreams are about that thing you thought you hate and now all you can say is.... "That is so stupid. And sexy. Damn!"
That's what happens to me and dubstep.
For all you people that still thinks that dubstep is a series of noises and grunts and more noises... Well, you're right. But that's the beauty of it: trying to find some sense on the chaos. And definitely dubstep is as chaotic as it gets, which I think is the main ingredient for rave parties and the like.
Dubstep has been accused to promote the consumption of drugs and I sincerely think that's bullish. I mean, I have went to a lot of raves and even though I've seen people getting high and stuff, I think the most powerful drug is the music itself, so I've never needed a mind-altering substance to put me in the mood. Especially with this type of music.
I don't wanna bore you with the story of dubstep. Suffice to say, Dubstep and pop now seem to be having a symbiotic relation not seen on the past. Well... Circa 2007, an almost demented Britney Spears released what for me is the best album of her career, and one of the gems included in this was the supreme "Freakshow", which would not sound as your standard 2013 dubstep, but definitely includes a wobbly bass line, being that one of the main hallmarks of this rhythm.
And of course, her 2011 single "Hold It Against Me" has a great dubstep breakdown, which really astound me the first time I heard it and it remained my favorite part of the song.
That song has been regarded as the one that introduces dubstep into pop music on such mainstream way, but let's not forget that another artist who took an awesome song (by Avicii, nonetheless), and turn it into a pesudo rap-dance-house-electronica with a dubstep breakdown, and became a monster hit. Of course we're talking about "Good Feeling", a rip-off of "Levels" by Avicii, which also uses a "Something's Got a Hold On Me" sample by Etta James.
Undoubtedly, the most famous dubstep musician is Skrillex. The Grammy-award winner released his first album as Skrillex on 2010, and then became a household figure with "Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites" and the album by the same name. Dating Ellie Goulding didn't hurt, either, although nowadays he has more fame than her. Anyways, Skrillex has made a cult around him that is spreading faster than AH1N1 virus and remixing songs for such artists as Lady Gaga, Black Eyed Peas, Katy Perry, among others. His latest effort, "Bangarang", also made him win a Grammy for Best Dance Recording and Best Dance album, so definitely big things are coming on his way.
There's more to say of this awesome movement, but I prefer the music (and video) do the talking: if you're into pop (and assuming you're reading this blog for that solely reason) you will enjoy the next selection of pop-meets-dubstep music I gather for your amusement. And of course, if you know more music, please let me know in the comments. That will be highly appreciated. Enjoy!
Bonus! The title of this post comes from a Simpsons episode which I think would be fitting to the first paragraph to this entry. So enjoy this remix of the whole thing. No dubstep, but equally worth it!
That's what happens to me and dubstep.
For all you people that still thinks that dubstep is a series of noises and grunts and more noises... Well, you're right. But that's the beauty of it: trying to find some sense on the chaos. And definitely dubstep is as chaotic as it gets, which I think is the main ingredient for rave parties and the like.
Dubstep has been accused to promote the consumption of drugs and I sincerely think that's bullish. I mean, I have went to a lot of raves and even though I've seen people getting high and stuff, I think the most powerful drug is the music itself, so I've never needed a mind-altering substance to put me in the mood. Especially with this type of music.
I don't wanna bore you with the story of dubstep. Suffice to say, Dubstep and pop now seem to be having a symbiotic relation not seen on the past. Well... Circa 2007, an almost demented Britney Spears released what for me is the best album of her career, and one of the gems included in this was the supreme "Freakshow", which would not sound as your standard 2013 dubstep, but definitely includes a wobbly bass line, being that one of the main hallmarks of this rhythm.
And of course, her 2011 single "Hold It Against Me" has a great dubstep breakdown, which really astound me the first time I heard it and it remained my favorite part of the song.
That song has been regarded as the one that introduces dubstep into pop music on such mainstream way, but let's not forget that another artist who took an awesome song (by Avicii, nonetheless), and turn it into a pesudo rap-dance-house-electronica with a dubstep breakdown, and became a monster hit. Of course we're talking about "Good Feeling", a rip-off of "Levels" by Avicii, which also uses a "Something's Got a Hold On Me" sample by Etta James.
Undoubtedly, the most famous dubstep musician is Skrillex. The Grammy-award winner released his first album as Skrillex on 2010, and then became a household figure with "Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites" and the album by the same name. Dating Ellie Goulding didn't hurt, either, although nowadays he has more fame than her. Anyways, Skrillex has made a cult around him that is spreading faster than AH1N1 virus and remixing songs for such artists as Lady Gaga, Black Eyed Peas, Katy Perry, among others. His latest effort, "Bangarang", also made him win a Grammy for Best Dance Recording and Best Dance album, so definitely big things are coming on his way.
There's more to say of this awesome movement, but I prefer the music (and video) do the talking: if you're into pop (and assuming you're reading this blog for that solely reason) you will enjoy the next selection of pop-meets-dubstep music I gather for your amusement. And of course, if you know more music, please let me know in the comments. That will be highly appreciated. Enjoy!
Bonus! The title of this post comes from a Simpsons episode which I think would be fitting to the first paragraph to this entry. So enjoy this remix of the whole thing. No dubstep, but equally worth it!
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Artist of the Week: Toni Braxton
When I first heard that Ms. Toni Braxton was retiring from music, I was just heartbroken. How could that be? Refraining from a title of one of her songs, "How could an angel break my heart?" That was just heart-wrenching, soul-crushing and devastating, to say the least (?). Truthfully, she was one of the main stars of the 90's era, a voice so recognizable and exquisite, a real gem of the R&B of that decade.
So for the past two weeks I have been paying homage to this R&B royalty, because it's really amazing what she had accomplished with her music. And although all of her money problems and severe health issues, she is still standing like a true warrior and giving her best at what she does.
Coming from a musical family (The Braxtons, which now are starring on an infamous TV reality show) to stardom as a soloist, Toni is a force to be reckoned. And although her latest efforts (both Libra and Pulse) haven't had the same success has her first albums, that doesn't mean she has lowered her quality on them. Alas, the world of music is a conjunction of good tunes, killer looks AND great promotion, something she had lacked on her recent efforts.
On a similar fashion as Mariah Carey, she started as a baladeer with glimpses of pop music intertwined on her first album, conveniently titled Toni Braxton, a trend that was followed on her most succesful effort, commercially and critically speaking, Secrets. But then things changed and she started to sound more urban and contemporary, losing some of her clothes on the process but never her musical integrity, and that's a positive thing.
To spice things up, Toni decided to make record on a more urban style, and embarked on a journey enlisting some of the heavy weights on hip hop at the time. It's funny to see all those great divas hanging out with all those gangstas that only talk about bitches and hoes and money and buzz, but I guess they were more polite and behaved around them.
But enough of the chit-chatter, let's just enlist my favorite songs from Toni on alphabetical order. Hopefully we coincide on some of the tunes, and if not, please let me know in the comments below:
"Another Sad Love Song" - This was Toni's first top ten hit on Billboard and the song that established her as a musical Prodigy. The song and video are so elegant and provocative at the same time. This is one of the finest examples of the 90's R&B and one of her signature songs.
"Come On Over Here" - A track from the Secrets album, this mid-tempo song reflects a more mature singer that is comfortable with who she is and aware of what she wants. Seriously, this song falls in my category of "Baby-Making Songs" for a reason. It's so groovy. A perfect fit for the mood of this particular album .
"Gimme Some" - This is a track for The Heat and, boy, it's so sultry and steamy as a hot day here on Monterrey, but you know, with lesser icky feeling. Featuring a rap of the late Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, the innuendo of the song is not so much as other songs from her. She is so straight forward about it, that I cannot see any heterosexual man refusing to this offer. Great song.
"He Wasn't Man Enough" - Lucky me, she just released this song at the time I was so into American music. That year (2000) was one of the best of my life. With a music video that starts so cheesy but evolved into a hip-hop drama starring Robin Givens, of Mike Tyson fame. Definitely one of her signature Works and one of the best songs from this lady. At this point in life, it hasn't lost any of its magic touch, and that's an achievement.
"Hit The Freeway" - This Pharrell - Neptunes effort from the More Than a Woman album encounters Ms. Braxton on a tricky situation with one of her lovers, where she's giving him the finger and taking him out of her life. Why this song had no success, is still a puzzle for me. But it's a really well-made song, and Toni is more in point tan ever. Of course, a little rap in the beggining and that was it. A real gem.
"I Belong To You" - Although her first album is full on ballads, this is easily one of the most uptempo songs from that record, and definitely one of the most alluring. Not a ready-for-the-dancefloor tune, but one that has to be danced slowly with your current lover. I imagine that and gives me chills.
"Let Me Show You The Way (Out)" - Definitely Toni has a preference for songs talking about heartbreaks and deceitful men in her life. But preferably on a rhythmic note. This is by far one of my fave faves from her, it has it all: Groove, great lyrics, and the always great voice of this diva. Using a great sample of "The Impressions", this is definitely a worthy single. Too bad she didn't choose it, but nevertheless the song has a place in my heart forever.
"Lookin' At Me" - As mad as I was for the Pulse album underperforming on the charts, I was blown away on how good the songs off that record were. This song is definitely worthy of a spin, and she sound so confident once again, and her voice amazingly hasn't changed a bit throughout the years.
"Make My Heart" - I'm so furious that this song didn't get the attention it deserves, because, frankly, it is amazing. The 80's vibe of it, courtesy of Evely Champagne, and an equally amazeballs video, depicting all of the 80's cliches in a manner so amusing... I mean, this song was meant to be a great hit, but instead remained as a definitely astonishing and larger than life tune. So maybe in a near future she will sing this song in a concert that I will attend, and that would make my life complete.
"My Ring" - This is not a track that you could find on an album of Toni. It's more like a B-Side that somehow manages to be a great song and then got retitled on the Pulse record as "The Wave". But I enjoy more this version. The theme is about a woman bragging about her new man and of course, her new ring. What else?
"Sposed To Be" - This track from Libra is really another "Baby-Making" song. This type of R&B it's really a trademark for her, and she delivers as a pro.
"Take This Ring" - And of course, we come to the Rich Harrison song, with that Motown vibe that made such hits as "1 Thing" by Amerie or "Crazy in Love" by Beyoncé. This is definitely single material, and I'm blown away by the fact that she (or the label, go figure) skipped it. And yet, this song is so infectious and groovy I tend to listen to it like 3 or 4 times each time I'm in the mood for it. I mean, the chorus is just magnificient and makes me wanna move in so many ways, ha! With a sample from "The Meters" and the usage of trumpets and horns, this is guaranteed shaking-and sweating whenever you listen to it.
"Un-Break My Heart" - Officially the first song I heard from her and, boy, never looked back. Making up a word is one thing, but turning into a beautiful concept and traslate all the emotions and feelings that come with it, it's so fantastic. I don't have many words to describe this song (awe-inspiring comes to mind), but it's beyond that. With so many artists covering this song as well as in English as in Spanish, this song became a success for her in so many countries where R&B is not that powerful and thanks to it, she become a full time diva and a superstar in her own right. Eleven weeks at the Billboard Top 100 are a true proof of that. And the song sounds as fresh as the first time, a true test of whether a song is good, great or a classic. This one sure falls in the last category.
Aside No. 1: On the video the actor and model Tyson Beckford made a glorious appearance. I mean glorious! He also appeared on Britney's "Toxic", so there's that.
Aside No. 2: Dont' you think Toni looks so resembling of Halle Berry on this picture?I think she does!
"You're Makin' Me High" - A Babyface production, this mid-tempo sure is another entry to my "Baby-Making" songs. And this is because it's so mesmerizing. And enticing. Play this song and I'm sure you will be making love through the whole thing (no pun intended). The video is so fun and boy, those guys are... well. I'm not so keen about the hair-do she's sporting (it looks like a bad wig), but definitely this is a signature song for her and a really splendid one. Play this once and sure you're going to keep it on repeat. A funny thing I just found out: this song was sampled on a Method Man and Redman collabo for a soundtrack of "How High", because, you know, getting high is something those two do on a regular basis. But you don't need weed or anything else to enjoy this fine piece of music.
Summarizing: I think we need more Toni on our lives, and I'm so sad that she's retiring, but I'm confident enough she has plenty of music to give it all to us on a medium term. Meanwhile, we must take a listen to all of her albums to notice how terrific she is and the influence she has had on the R&B world as we know it today.
I will be glad to listen from you, so if you like this post (or not), please let me know on the commentaries. Hope you have enjoyed this post, and you consider giving Toni Braxton a spin on your music player!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
You know what's missing in the world? A Nicki Minaj / Pitbull collabo....
...I mean, seriously.
Think about it: Both Nicki Minaj and Pitbull had worked with almost everyone involved in pop music nowadays, one way or the other. On collaborations, features, as lyricists or producers, or even doing cameos on the videos and the like.
Except to each other, that is.
(On a side note: I guess Pitbull would never have made it with his real name. No offense but Armando Pérez? Such a common and sterile name on Latin America. End of side note)
Nicki should be the only female artist that has worked with the Holy Trinity of pop (Madonna, Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera, and sue me for saying this). Not even Missy Elliott had done that (she only collaborated on that infamous "Like a Virgin/Hollywood" medley a years ago, but has never produced anything for Spears,but that could change on the short term). Back to Nicki: as I mentioned on a previous post, she worked with the likes of Mariah Carey, who now have become more like her nemesis. But still, she has a strong presence in the charts, and I gotta confess I love her
Meanwhile, Pitbull had made the transition of a latin-white rapper singing odes to women's derriere to... Well, asking politely for such woman posterior 'assets'. Seriously, it's not like he's the well versed man on business, but then who is it? And although he has been accused of practically ripping off classic pop songs into his tunes, you can't deny the man has certain charm and this is confirmed by his current success in the music field.
So the afinity of both artists for collaborations, rapping over pop songs, name-droppings, endorsements with several brands, feuds with colleagues and even lawsuits... All of this has got me thinking (as you may advert, I seem to think of nonsense very much everyday): why these two haven't made a song that will surely blow up the charts? I mean, Nicki is the only female that have had seven songs at the same time on Billboard (as you may assume, six of them were collaborations). And Pit has been in the game for quite a while, so it seems only a matter of time before this occurs.
Look how good they look together!
I think if this happens some day, the result will be very much like this:
So let's start a campaign for this to happen. And then, everything in the world will be settled and who knows? Maybe music will improve for just a moment. (Just kidding. That won't be happening anytime soon. The improvement thing).
And in case you were wondering (I know you do), this is the list of all songs Nicki Minaj has been featured on. And of course, Pitbull. So if you like them, go get them!
Sunday, March 31, 2013
David Guetta on Monterrey...
Last March 8th, David Guetta was here, on Monterrey. I didn't attend the concert. due some personal issues, but a friend of mine went and recorded some videos from me, and by the look of it, it was amazing!
Please check my You Tube channel, so you can enjoy all videos that I upload of this DJ. The rave was just great and I definitely missed a great gig, but thanks to the magic of recording, I feel like I was there. And as a plus, not my annoying voice singing along with the music!
Enjoy and leave some comments!
Thanks for your contribution, Adrian. You're such a great friend!
Please check my You Tube channel, so you can enjoy all videos that I upload of this DJ. The rave was just great and I definitely missed a great gig, but thanks to the magic of recording, I feel like I was there. And as a plus, not my annoying voice singing along with the music!
Enjoy and leave some comments!
Thanks for your contribution, Adrian. You're such a great friend!
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Artist of The Week: Mariah Carey
As a remains of my OCPD days, I choose an artist on alphabetical order to grace my week, listening to their music and albums and watching their videos (if I find myself the time to actually do this). This past two weeks, though, belonged to an actual great artist that I can't seem to get tired of: Ms. Mariah Carey.
Mind you, I've been a huge fan of hers since the days of "Fantasy", a personal favorite of mine and a song that is still heavy on my iPod playlist. In fact, I think that part of the appeal of Mariah has always been that safe combination of corniness and sincerity both lyrically and musically. Let's be honest: who chooses to be compared to a butterfly and record a song and video which clearly didn't star any of those little creatures?
Only one commentary about her gig on American Idol: Aside of my feelings about Nicki Minaj, I thought Mariah would have been so much better on it if she were the only female at that table. And she deserved that, being virtually the resposible for half auditions on that show. On her Wikipedia page, I loved a line that textually says: "Depending on how you feel about public humiliation, the best/worst parts of American Idol are the audition shows, which normally break down into three distinct parts:(1) The Talented Kids.(2) The Weird Kids.(3) The Mariahs." That's how far it goes when we're talking about Mariah influence on that shows, but you can see she is not feeling comfortable on that role.
It is hard to say which tunes are my favorite when it comes to Mariah's music, but it's clear that each and every album has some jewels that I cherish and appreciate everytime I listen to them. Whether it is because of the music, the vocals or the lyrics, or if they are attached to a specific situation on my life, her music has always been a great part of me and what I like about pop.
So, to recap and in alphabetical particular order (remember my obsessions with that), here they are: my favorite Mariah Carey tunes (I even made ringtones of them, how's that for a fanatic??):
"Boy (I Need You)" featuring Cam'ron - One of the greatest examples on how Mariah can mix hip hop and a rapper to her favor. Besides, that sample of "I'm Going Down" by Rose Royce and the "Boy, Oh Boy" snippets repeated ad nauseam give that song a charming feeling, indeed.
"Breakdown" featuring Bone Thugs-n-Harmony - Lyrics here are quintessential Mariah. Besides, this is a fine R&B song with hip hop verses about losing love, something we all can relate to. Video is also amazing.
"Did I Do That?" featuring Mystikal - One of those gems from the "Rainbow" album, which itself is very consistent. In this one, she's lamenting for a mistake dating a man who is clearly not suited for her. Wait a minute - this could be easily targeted at Eminem in a beat. So Mariah predicts the future, too!
"Didn't Mean to Turn You On" - For me, "Glitter" is a really superb album. It's a departure of what Mariah had done prior to that, and although the movie is not great and she uses so many guests on the album, the music was so unjustifiably categorized at the same level as the movie did, which is totally a no- no. And this song, a cover of a 1984 Cherelle song, it's basically an ode to one of those times you send the wrong signals to someone (inadvertantly or on purpose), only to left them aroused and in need of a cold bath. Fun(k) song, very Prince-y.
"Dreamlover" - Even though I consider this a schmaltzy syrupy song, I really adore it. It's so basic, you have to care for it. Testament of the simpler times that the 90's were. :(
"Fantasy" - There are songs that are so indelibly attached to one artist, that you cannot conceive their careers without them. And I think this is the song for Mariah. A global success and one of the few songs to debut at the top of the Billboard chart, when that meant something. And that sample of Tom Tom Club, "Genius of Love", was simply amazing! This was the 90's for me, essentially. And it's nice to get back to those days; with this song that is possible.
"H.A.T.E.U." - The last album of Mimi, "Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel", is not easily one of my favorite albums from her, but this song reminded me why I fall in love with this girl in the first place. Harmony, melisma, lyrics, is all there.
"Honey" - This was the Mariah 'coming of age' song. Maturity and a new sound came along, and of course a little sexiness, why not? It's like a divorce and a new found freedom brings the best of her. And of course, the infectious chorus with the always syrupy lyrics really made one of those songs that are so recognizable. Props to her, to get to a new level that many of her fans were waiting for a long time.
"I'm That Chick" - Personally, I prefer Mariah's uptempo numbers, because she is so much fun in them. In this song, out of the E=MC2 album (a name that is so nerdy many people wondered if Mariah knew really what it meant), she proves that she's not strange to rhythmic songs and she can make a step or two on the dance floor. Obviously, with a little help of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, sampling "Off The Wall", his best era, this is foolproof. I wish this would have been a single, with a proper video and all, but hey! We get an Offer Nissim remix, so that counts, right?
"Shake It Off" - This was taken by that force of nature that was her "The Emancipation of Mimi" album. A song so fun for me, and with a rhyming and pace that I just enjoy thoroughly. The only person that could avoid this jewel to hit number one was... well, herself. Amazing.
"Someday" - A fun song from the first album, "Mariah Carey", that was number one and confirmed us that Mariah also like to have fun.
"Sweetheart" - Back in the day, circa 1998, this woman touched everything and turned into gold. So it came to no surprise that she decided to throw a Greatest Hits album consisting in all of her "#1's". Seriously, she had so many. But also with some new songs, being the primary single this one. So infectious and continuing the tradition of one word, corny titles, that it had proved to be so efficient.
"We Belong Together" - Jermaine Dupri is half-responsible for this comeback single that put Mariah on the stars again after the disaster that was "Glitter", both album and movie, and the so-so performance of "Charmbracelet", a good album with a bad timing. And oh boy, that was some comeback. This song represents something important to me. Having my first real breakup with one person I cared about, this song became my oficial anthem of the heart-broken. I literally cried whenever I heard it. And although now I laugh at that possibility (crying for that person, WTF was wrong with me?), the song still gives me the chills and more. So powerful. 14 no-consecutives weeks on number one and being named "Song of the Decade" by Billboard gotta mean something, am I correct?
"Without You" - Now, this is officially the first song I heard from her, back in the day, and positively I can say that I haven't looked back ever since. A cover from the group Badfinger, with a formulaic treatment and yet Mariah delivered some of her finest notes in here. Superb.
To rest my case: Mariah is a super talented woman, that has been highly criticized for a style that would seem easy to accomplish and maintain, but definitely she's a trendsetter, a woman that has had their troubles and failures like everyone else, but remains as a strong female and a reference on pop music, whether you like it or not.
So are you a big fan of Mariah? Hopefully you loved this post. If not a fan, I hope this little tribute opened your ears to a great artist, and you start listen to her. Sound off on the comments!
Via Trend Mixer
Mind you, I've been a huge fan of hers since the days of "Fantasy", a personal favorite of mine and a song that is still heavy on my iPod playlist. In fact, I think that part of the appeal of Mariah has always been that safe combination of corniness and sincerity both lyrically and musically. Let's be honest: who chooses to be compared to a butterfly and record a song and video which clearly didn't star any of those little creatures?
Via Mix 101.1 FM
But that doesn't mean a thing when you got the talent and pipes of this woman. Let's be honest: at some point of the life, many artists tried very hard to be like her. Hell, even half of American Idol alumni have tried to emulate her, one way or the other. For an artist that has been in the game for about 23 years now, and had 18 number one hits, more than Elvis Presley and two behind The Beatles, which itself is a great accomplishment.
Via Cotibluemos
And let's not forget about the music, please. Since the first time I heard her with the aforementioned "Fantasy", I loved her lyrics, so saccharine and mellow but for good. The usage of big and unusual words for a pop singer ("nonchalant"? "persuade me to relinquish my love"? "despondency"?) (That last song, "Petals", is really a poem, about some personal issues, you should check that out) I really think she's underrated as a lyricist, but boy, those songs are amazing, and I actually blame her for teaching me so many big words to look OK among my peers in any given situations.
Her voice. Man, the source of much debate. She has stated so many times she is an alto, but really, who cares? Her voice is like the one of an angel. In her first period as a singer, she was very into melisma and other vocal acrobacies, but then she stopped and tried different approaches to her voice, although she didn't abandon her roots (case in point: "We Belong Together", another great, great song and personal favorite). Seriously though, how awesome is it? I long for the day I get to watch her live, and hear that glorious voice of her, and everything will be fine in life.
In the 90's, at the beggining of her career, Mariah seemed to found the perfect formula for success: strong, poppish, one-word first singles ("Fantasy", "Dreamlover", "Honey"), super powerful torch and arena ready ballads ("Hero", "Always Be My Baby"), great covers ("Without You", "Open Arms", "Against All Odds") and generally, a soul vibe in each album that reflect her commitment to her art. All of this while being married at the music mogul Tommy Mottola. Later, she embarked on a self-discovery journey that involved having LOTS of hits with famous rappers (after all, she set the trend with her 1995 collabo with Ol' Dirty Bastard on, what else? "Fantasy", of course). I think she had worked with them all... well, except Eminem, of course, although the collaboration they had, according to Eminem, was not exactly musical. (Mariah is not amused). Even she did a song with Nicki Minaj, before all the bad blood and eye-rolling and passive agressive commentaries on American Idol, which would be funny if it wasn't so staged. Or at least that's what everybody say. But seriously, she has worked with all the rappers you might think of, mostly the current favorites at that time. And I considered that a bless and a curse, since she has overused that resource and now seems to be only a guest in her own songs. But she's Mariah; she can do whatever she wants and us, fans, can't complain at all, because SHE is in it.
Only one commentary about her gig on American Idol: Aside of my feelings about Nicki Minaj, I thought Mariah would have been so much better on it if she were the only female at that table. And she deserved that, being virtually the resposible for half auditions on that show. On her Wikipedia page, I loved a line that textually says: "Depending on how you feel about public humiliation, the best/worst parts of American Idol are the audition shows, which normally break down into three distinct parts:(1) The Talented Kids.(2) The Weird Kids.(3) The Mariahs." That's how far it goes when we're talking about Mariah influence on that shows, but you can see she is not feeling comfortable on that role.
It is hard to say which tunes are my favorite when it comes to Mariah's music, but it's clear that each and every album has some jewels that I cherish and appreciate everytime I listen to them. Whether it is because of the music, the vocals or the lyrics, or if they are attached to a specific situation on my life, her music has always been a great part of me and what I like about pop.
So, to recap and in alphabetical particular order (remember my obsessions with that), here they are: my favorite Mariah Carey tunes (I even made ringtones of them, how's that for a fanatic??):
"Boy (I Need You)" featuring Cam'ron - One of the greatest examples on how Mariah can mix hip hop and a rapper to her favor. Besides, that sample of "I'm Going Down" by Rose Royce and the "Boy, Oh Boy" snippets repeated ad nauseam give that song a charming feeling, indeed.
"Breakdown" featuring Bone Thugs-n-Harmony - Lyrics here are quintessential Mariah. Besides, this is a fine R&B song with hip hop verses about losing love, something we all can relate to. Video is also amazing.
"Did I Do That?" featuring Mystikal - One of those gems from the "Rainbow" album, which itself is very consistent. In this one, she's lamenting for a mistake dating a man who is clearly not suited for her. Wait a minute - this could be easily targeted at Eminem in a beat. So Mariah predicts the future, too!
"Didn't Mean to Turn You On" - For me, "Glitter" is a really superb album. It's a departure of what Mariah had done prior to that, and although the movie is not great and she uses so many guests on the album, the music was so unjustifiably categorized at the same level as the movie did, which is totally a no- no. And this song, a cover of a 1984 Cherelle song, it's basically an ode to one of those times you send the wrong signals to someone (inadvertantly or on purpose), only to left them aroused and in need of a cold bath. Fun(k) song, very Prince-y.
"Dreamlover" - Even though I consider this a schmaltzy syrupy song, I really adore it. It's so basic, you have to care for it. Testament of the simpler times that the 90's were. :(
"Fantasy" - There are songs that are so indelibly attached to one artist, that you cannot conceive their careers without them. And I think this is the song for Mariah. A global success and one of the few songs to debut at the top of the Billboard chart, when that meant something. And that sample of Tom Tom Club, "Genius of Love", was simply amazing! This was the 90's for me, essentially. And it's nice to get back to those days; with this song that is possible.
"H.A.T.E.U." - The last album of Mimi, "Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel", is not easily one of my favorite albums from her, but this song reminded me why I fall in love with this girl in the first place. Harmony, melisma, lyrics, is all there.
"Honey" - This was the Mariah 'coming of age' song. Maturity and a new sound came along, and of course a little sexiness, why not? It's like a divorce and a new found freedom brings the best of her. And of course, the infectious chorus with the always syrupy lyrics really made one of those songs that are so recognizable. Props to her, to get to a new level that many of her fans were waiting for a long time.
"I'm That Chick" - Personally, I prefer Mariah's uptempo numbers, because she is so much fun in them. In this song, out of the E=MC2 album (a name that is so nerdy many people wondered if Mariah knew really what it meant), she proves that she's not strange to rhythmic songs and she can make a step or two on the dance floor. Obviously, with a little help of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, sampling "Off The Wall", his best era, this is foolproof. I wish this would have been a single, with a proper video and all, but hey! We get an Offer Nissim remix, so that counts, right?
"Shake It Off" - This was taken by that force of nature that was her "The Emancipation of Mimi" album. A song so fun for me, and with a rhyming and pace that I just enjoy thoroughly. The only person that could avoid this jewel to hit number one was... well, herself. Amazing.
"Someday" - A fun song from the first album, "Mariah Carey", that was number one and confirmed us that Mariah also like to have fun.
"Sweetheart" - Back in the day, circa 1998, this woman touched everything and turned into gold. So it came to no surprise that she decided to throw a Greatest Hits album consisting in all of her "#1's". Seriously, she had so many. But also with some new songs, being the primary single this one. So infectious and continuing the tradition of one word, corny titles, that it had proved to be so efficient.
"We Belong Together" - Jermaine Dupri is half-responsible for this comeback single that put Mariah on the stars again after the disaster that was "Glitter", both album and movie, and the so-so performance of "Charmbracelet", a good album with a bad timing. And oh boy, that was some comeback. This song represents something important to me. Having my first real breakup with one person I cared about, this song became my oficial anthem of the heart-broken. I literally cried whenever I heard it. And although now I laugh at that possibility (crying for that person, WTF was wrong with me?), the song still gives me the chills and more. So powerful. 14 no-consecutives weeks on number one and being named "Song of the Decade" by Billboard gotta mean something, am I correct?
"Without You" - Now, this is officially the first song I heard from her, back in the day, and positively I can say that I haven't looked back ever since. A cover from the group Badfinger, with a formulaic treatment and yet Mariah delivered some of her finest notes in here. Superb.
To rest my case: Mariah is a super talented woman, that has been highly criticized for a style that would seem easy to accomplish and maintain, but definitely she's a trendsetter, a woman that has had their troubles and failures like everyone else, but remains as a strong female and a reference on pop music, whether you like it or not.
So are you a big fan of Mariah? Hopefully you loved this post. If not a fan, I hope this little tribute opened your ears to a great artist, and you start listen to her. Sound off on the comments!
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