R U Crazy? (Or Kanye being... well, Kanye)

Last night The Grammy's were held, and oh boy, what a feast. For the most part, there were ballads everywhere, some good, some bad. As an irony, the most energetic presentations were from two old school fronts: AC/DC, who started the joint, and Madonna, which I'm still trying to process (and I'm not talking about her outfit at the red carpet). And the best, for me, was Annie Lenox (sublime, absolutely sublime) and Sia, assisted by a very wide-eyed Kristen Wiig. Absolutely marvelous.

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As predicted yesterday, I was right about the winners. It was Sam Smith's night, of course. The so-called male Adele took three Grammys to his home and one of the best lines of the night: "I want to thank the man who this record is about, who I fell in love with last year. Thank you so much for breaking my heart because you got me four Grammys". That is called a comeback like any other.

For the complete list of winners, please go here.

And of course, the fashion. The unaltered fashion. I'm going to let the images speak for themselves.

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- Madonna as a sexy maiden, showing that at 56 she still got it. Also, that any women at any age looks ridiculous on that outfit.

- Kim Kardashian, who apparently got out of the bathroom in her expensive bathrobe and didn't have time to change. Convenience, after all.

- Taylor Swift, looking so regal in this, One of my favorite colors. Love it.

- Gwen Stefani: never mind the jumpsuit, she looks like 25. How she does it?

- Katy Perry, bland, yes, but what a great performance, with all of its flaws. Amazing.

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- Beyonce, so toned down, but looking #Flawless, as usual. Minus points for a good presentation, not really suited for her.
- Lady Gaga, surprisingly poised, but she's looking more and more like this lady.
- Rihanna, with a dreamy dress, but she looks more like a quinceañera. You should really see all the memes about that.
- Kim, again.
- Nicki Minaj, showing her assets, as usual. She look gorgeous, by the way.

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God bless Sia. She's the new Bjork. Amazing, unpredictable and avant-garde. Although I hate to say this, but shouldn't this girl be at home sleeping at that time? Just saying.

But none of that can compare with THE MOMENT. Yes, the one they are all talking about. That awkward moment when you are awarded one of the major categories - Album of The Year -, unexpectedly, not even you see it coming. The award is presented and handed by no other than Prince, Prince! You get up the stage, all humbled and thankful, and then... This happens:

Seriously. Someone call the doctor, we have a crazy, narcissistic individual in the house.

And this sums up all about the Grammys: finally they recognize someone talented enough to actually deserve an award, and the stupid gimmicks almost ruined the moment.

And congratulations to my dear Christina, which along with A Great Big World, won the Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group performance.  She's not even active and she's winning things. That's a LEGEND.

What do you think of the performances and the awards? Let me know in the comments!

Tonight's The Night (The 57th Grammy Awards!)

Evidently, the big night of all things related to music is TODAY. The Grammy Awards, whether we like it or not, are the epitome of the music industry and a long aspiration for anyone working on music, whether they want to admit it or no. So basically, Tonight's The Night.

And as a now long tradition, Grammy's are going to be full of performances. Some odd, some very awaited (looking at you, Madonna and Katy Perry), and frankly, I can't wait to watch what the night is going to become. Something to remember or something to forget?

In all honesty, 2014 was a year to forget. Bland acts and bland music (commercially speaking) were the norm and not the exception, so the few examples of great music are rightly nominated for awards tonight. There were no big surprises on the nominations, so we only have to expect who the winners are going to be, meanwhile we sit during the three and a half hours (!) that the show normally lasts.

So,without further ado, I'll give you my predictions on who should and who will win. Care to join me?


RECORD OF THE YEAR

Who should win: Sia had a great year, and her song was surprisingly ubiquitous, so that is my bet for tonight.
Who will win: Sam Smith is the media darling right now, so it is a no brainer that he will be the king of tonight. But so is Taylor Swift, although her absence will definitely play a part in her not receiving an award tonight (but hey, wait for Grammy's 2016).
To consider: 3 out of the 5 nominees are foreigner: 2 Australian and one from the UK. Big year for foreign music on the US.


ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Who should win: Either Pharrell or Ed made great and commercial albums, not boring or repetitive, so they should win for that feat.

Who will win: Let's face it, this is Sam's night, so this one is for him also. Good album, but for half of it you just want to sleep or cry or both.

To consider: Beyoncé is the only woman nominated for this. It is a shame that her album ruled the last month of 2013, as she has no chance to win for the behemoths that Sam or Pharrell are. Also: 1000 Forms of Fear should be nominated.

SONG OF THE YEAR

Who should win: It is obvious that my love for Sia knows no boundaries or objectivity, so I will hand it to her, hands down.
Who will win: Based on popularity, it is either Taylor's or Sam's, but we know exactly how is this going to play out, right?
To consider: In a certainly dreadful year, these are actually the best songs out there and I´m glad they all are nominated.



BEST NEW ARTIST

Iggy Azalea
Bastille
Sam Smith
Haim
Brandy Clark

Who should win: Sam Smith. For me, it is the only award that he truly deserves.
Who will win: Sam Smith. It's his night, remember.
To consider: Again, foreign act dominating the nominations. For me, that is interesting, because it is obvious that the US now is more open to another acts, not the typical American stuff.



BEST POP DUO/GROUP PERFORMANCE

"Fancy", Iggy Azalea featuring Charli XCX.
"A Sky Full of Stars", Coldplay
"Say Something", A Great Big World with Christina Aguilera
"Bang Bang", Jessie J, Ariana Grande & Nicki Minaj
"Dark Horse", Katy Perry featuring Juicy J


Who should win: If you know me, you know that my money will always be on Christina. And let's face it, it IS the best song of the bunch.
Who will win: It's either "Fancy" or "Dark Horse", the two biggest hits of the year. And you know what? It doesn't upset me. Both songs are proper bangers, and they deserve it.
To consider: Only one group (Coldplay) considered in this category. That means: more collaborations on the future from seemingly different artists (yass!)



BEST POP VOCAL ALBUM

Who should win: As far as quality, I think Sam and Ed offered really stand out albums, but I lean more towards Ed. But in reality, I will be delighted if Katy actually wins the whole thing.
Who will win: Sam, obvs. The only album nominated for Album of The Year.
To consider: Funny thing that Coldplay is now considered pop, although let's face it, they always have been. And Miley can consider her nomination a victory and a confirmation that, after all, her talent really surpassed all the gimmicky that she have been the past year.


You can check out the full list of nominees here (only if you have the time; there are 83 categories, less than previous years, but still).

Are you watching the Grammy's tonight? Who are you rooting for? Sound off in the comments!

You've Changed (the layout and stuff)

Hi, there! I tend to keep my promises, and I'm focusing on making this blog something really great for the ones that took time out of their lives to read my nonsense. So I'm changing the layout and adding a Spotify playlist at the right side, so you can listen the new music that sure is going to keep us talking this year. Give me more suggestions so I can add them and if you like to subscribe to the playlist, you're more than welcome!

Thanks to the guys at this site, I borrowed one of their collages for my wallpaper, which is just perfect for this site. I just loved it.

So what do you think? Is this a yay or nay? Does it look good or am I missing the point here? I would love to read your opinions.

Thank you and enjoy!

Motorcycle Mama (Or Girls on bikes in videos)

Let me start this year by saying how much I love "Black Widow" by Iggy Azalea featuring Rita Ora. I know, I know: a lame, derivative "Dark Horse" if ever was one. But you have to admit the build-up to the non-chorus is pretty fantastic, considering that is sung by an almost anonymous voice -Rita is not well known by her vocal skills, anyway-, and Iggy is more powerful on "Fancy" or "Work". But you get the idea.

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Now, the video is something else altogether. In her grand tradition of making videos that seems like a tribute to famous movies, now it is the turn to "Kill Bill", including the one and only Michael Madsen, best known as Budd from said movie. It is such a travesty badly done, but nonetheless fun and it raises the song to more than a clone of some other tune and give it a life of its own. In a word: bonkers.



Which got me thinking: there should be a number of videos that features amazon-like women riding a motorcycle on some CGI universe looking to avenge mishaps committed towards them, right? Why, yes, there are, and plenty of them. This trope is very common in female empowerment video and our life is so, so much better for that. Let's take a look, shall we?

Britney Spears - "Toxic"

Before all the umbrella incidents and general craziness, Brit released this gem that surely got us talking with a sexy vibe and general greatness. But the trope was certainly improved by a handsome Tyson Beckford, driving such vehicle. All in all, an epic video.

She is riding a... Ducatti 999, and Tyson, let us not forget.




Paulina Rubio - "Don't Say Goodbye"

In her first incursion to American music landscape, Paulina shoot this expensive video almost on a green panel, it seems. Cool video, although it did little to get her on the mainstream pop of the beginning of 2000's. Well, you cannot have everything, right?

She is riding a... Replica of Kaneda's motorcycle, a character in the famous Akira manga and movie, which this video is heavily influenced from. Who would have known?




Shania Twain - "I'm Gonna Getcha Good!"

Following a success like Come On Over was not an easy feat, but Shania made it through this fun, sing-along song that made one hell of a video, as silly and clueless as the song itself. More like a TRON throwaway than the dystopian future they tried to convey. But yeah, great song.

She is riding a... Non-identified model of motorcycle, but reminiscing of the ones featured on TRON. You should check that movie.




Nicole Scherzinger - "Poison"

Certainly Nicole had a rough time convincing people that she was more than the prettiest girl on The Pussycat Dolls, or the more talented. Sadly, in this redux "Toxic"-like video, she didn't support that idea and seemed desperate to be a star in her own right. Sadly, it's not working for her, is it?

She is riding a... BMW R1200, which is a nice thing, I guess.




What we learned from all this?
- Girls love motorbikes...
- But they are afraid to ride them properly, so they need special effects and a green screen to achieve the desired effect.
- But they look fucking good while doing it.

An aside? Interestingly, all this videos are inspired from movies, and at least two of them (Britney's and Paulina's) are among the most expensive in the history of video.

So riding a motorcycle certainly has its perks, right?

Do you happen to know any other video featuring this trope? Sound off in the comments!

New Year, New Goals, New Promises...

Dear all:

We are now etering the second half of January and I'm doing the first entry of 2015. This project has had its ups and downs, and I feel like I abandoned it for so long. But I always get the sense and urge to write more about  pop music and this year seems phenomenal to do so, and I will continue to do it as long as I breathe (or at least until this blog runs its course, which I hope it's not soon).

Melodrama aside, I think it is best if we put it into action, and to me, that means that I least I have to post once a week to hold this promise for this year. It won't be an easy feat, but I think I have to make it in order to accomplish it and feel better about myself, so here it goes.

Another promises for this year:

- Spend more time with family and friends.
- start to eat healthy (which is practically impossible since I can't cook, even if my life depends on it).
- listen to more music (easy one).
- learn a new language (right now I'm onto German and after that French will be a fine thing).
- and most of all, be a better person in the real and digital world (I have been a bit of an asshole in both so who knows, I'll try to fix my ways).

Additionally, I think this will be an exciting year regarding of music (we already have a new Björk album, which for me is always a welcome thing). So yeah, this little project, passion, hobbie, whatever you want to call it, is here to stay.

Cheers for an uplifting 2015!

Artist of the week: Keyshia Cole

First of all... I want to apologize for the lack of updates since September. Right now I am studying a  new career online, and that is exciting. But I promise I will try to update as often as I can, because this is an important part of my life.

And now, back to business. This week has been dedicated to one of the most underrated people on R&B, and I think that's a shame, because she is excellent and very talented: Miss Keyshia Cole.

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Keyshia has been around since 2004, but she had a prior career being mentored by none other than Tupac Shakur. Big stuff. Her first record, a song for the soundtrack of the movie "Barbershop 2: Back in Business", entitled "Never", was a first attempt to get into the spotlight, and although it didn't have a proper success, it was clear that she was destined to bigger things.

Then, magic happens. Her first album, "The Way It Is", appeared, and oh boy, what a treat. I will always say without a doubt that this is one of the best first albums of an artist ever, because it is simply great. She delivered big notes, passion and talent in every song. There are no fillers in this great work: every song has a purpose and it's in the tone of the album. It is really great.





After this album, things seemed to get better for her. She released a second album, "Just Like You", which was also a success, and then featured on some collaborations with artists like P.Diddy and Sean Paul that further helped to get her international recognition.







After that, there were more albums that failed to replicate the success of her first two albums, but that doesn't mean they are bad. Contrary to that, they are excellent, and they are proof that how talented and serious she is in her work, and a truly testament on how underrated is her music.

So saying that, these are my favorite tunes from her, and if you don't know her music, these gems are a very good start:

1. "(I Just Want It) To Be Over": How can you beat  a song title like that? (Obviously, I love parentheses). And boy, this track produced by the same team that produced Alicia Keys, this is definitely one of the best tracks of her debut album. Fortunately, it was a single, and although the video is nothing close to the greatness of the song, this is pure quality.



2. "Down and Dirty": Uptempo songs are not Keyshia's best assets, but in this one, she delivers enough swagger and enthusiasm to make a great song. A hidden gem on her first album.



3. "I Ain't Thru (Featuring Nicki Minaj)": Sure, everything that Minaj touches instantly becomes gold, but let's give props to Keyshia, for maintaining her style over the infectious Minaj rap, and deliver excellent performance on this little ditty.



4. "I Changed My Mind": This Kanye West assisted track was her proper first single, and of course, given the fact that was produced by West and it was her grandeur entrance to the music world and the charts, this is definitely a solid track. And the chorus is really dope, if you ask me.



5. "Let It Go (Featuring Missy Elliott and Lil Kim)": At the pinnacle of her fame, she delivered this track with the assistance of two of the most respected female rappers in the world. Also, it helps that infectious "Juicy Fruit" sample  and simple but effective lyrics. A hit all around.




6. "Please Don't Stop": Although her "A Different Me" album was not the hit it deserved to be, there were plenty of songs that made that album one of her best. Among them, this song that is very uptempo and very fun to sing along. She really let her go in this one, figuratively.




7. "Was It Worth It": Her mid tempos are her best forté, which is demonstrated in this song, that yearns desperation and disappointment all at once. Her phrasing, her voice timber, and her delivery are really magnificent, and I'm not being hyperbolic. A shame this was not a single, it would have been great.



All in all, a very complete artist, whose music stands for itself, and although the recognition for her has waned in recent years, she still is as talented as day one. I'm really glad to be a  fan of her work.

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Do you like Keyshia? Which one is your favorite song from her? Sound off in the comments!

Proof that Taylor Swift is a Pop Star (Video and All) now...

By now, you could have heard the new Taylor Swift tune, "Shake It Off", and maybe you already hum the chorus or plainly yell out loud the lyrics of the song on your commute, am I right? And probably you have seen the video. If not, here it is, in all its glory:





Now, video is nothing extraordinary. Sure, it has some great scenery (I especially dig the ballet scenes and the contemporary dance takes) and silly Taylor all over the place, with her encouraging message "Sure I can look goofy despite being one of the most rich musicians in the world" and obviously "Haters gonna hate" motto that I'm pretty sure will become the mantra of teenage girls all around the world. The usual for Tay Tay.

But back to the video. Despite accusations of blatant cultural appropiation (that's still a thing, apparently) and stereotypes of black culture, I think it is a well done video, and it has met positive reviews around the music world. And of course the fans. So it should be interesting to know that the video was directed by a director called Mark Romanek. If you haven't heard of this guy before, do not worry. That is my duty, to introduce you to the work of this fine artist and visionary. because let's face it, he is.

Maybe you should take a look at some of his videos:


Lenny Kravitz - "Are You Gonna Go My Way?"





Madonna - "Bed Time Story"




Michael & Janet Jackson - "Scream"




Janet Jackson - "Got Til It's Gone"




Nine Inch Nails - "Closer" (NSFW)




Jay Z - "99 Problems"





And that's just the most commercial stuff. He's way deep in other videos. His cinematography has been well received, and he won several VMA's when those awards were relevant. Even two of their videos (Madonna's and Nine Inch Nails') have been made part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.

And he has also directed some movies, most notably, One Hour Photo, starring the late Robin Williams.

So yes, maybe artistically and in comparison, Taylor video is one of his most inferior works, but hey! The guy hasn't worked in a long time, so I guess he needs the artistic push that a Pop Queen Bee can make. He is now set to direct the new U2 video, apparently, so that's something.

So, yeah, go back to watch Taylor's video. You know you want to.

The Certified One Hit Wonders of 2014. so far!

I know it is a strecth to made a list of One Hit Wonders of 2014 when: 1. 2014 is not over yet; and 2. Many of these people could potentially have a proper second hit somehow this year, or maybe next year.

Or maybe never. Who knows what will happen in the future? That is why, on a long tradition of listoids, here they are. The certified One Hit Wonders of 2014 so far. Let's hope I'm wrong and these personalities come up with something as brilliant and fun like these songs, but let's face it, maybe it is not meant to be:


1. Aloe Blacc - "The Man"



With many R&B balladeers claiming the top spot on the music charts, this bragging anthem comes as something definitely refreshing and new. There was certain charisma and talent in Aloe to keep people interested in his music,. After all, Avicii's "Wake Me Up" is his creation (in which he wasn't even mentioned, so sorry, it is not his hit per se).

But then? Nothing, I guess. Oh, there is this thing: He will help Adam Levine on the next season of "The Voice". So I guess he will eventually make a comeback. Or not. Just wait.


2. The Chainsmokers - "#Selfie"



By definition, all viral videos are potential One Hit Wonders, due to repetition and immediacy. But there was something else about this duo of DJ's and their song that was more than a video for You Tube hits. I don't know if this was unintentional or not, but the whole song reeks irony and sarcasm about our obsession on this new trend, taking Selfies, and it's both decadent and funny.

And then? Nothing. Remixes over here, over there and just that. I guess being existentialist while on the dance floor is not something you want to replicate often.


3. Clean Bandit - "Rather Be"



This song is so good, heart-warming and fun. And the video is great. So it is sad that they seem unable to replicate the success of this song despite having two excellent follow-ups ("Extraordinary" and "Come Over" and its trippy video). And oh boy this song was successful. Even in the US, where they seem to have a reluctance to embrace these kind of sounds.

Hopefully, I'm wrong and they have another ace under their sleeves, but this is seriously shitty, because we are talking a serious great group here.



4. DJ Snake ft. Lil' Jon - "Turn Down For What"



Song is OK, but what it really made famous this particular tune was the friggin' video, which is hilarious and frightening and way fucked up at the same time. A really amazing idea, well executed and it sets apart this song, which was only a "ready-for-the-club" cut to become something more ingrained in our subconscious.

But of course, him being a DJ and all, he is set to be DJ'ing and remixing this song ad-infinitum and that's pretty much it. But then again, many people would die for being able to do that, so it's not bad, really.



5. Kid Ink - "Show Me"



Basically, this poor man's , look-a-like, copy cat, lame version of  Chris Brown actually had a hit with this tune that was practically sung by Brown himself and then remade it in her "Loyal" song. This was no number one hit, for sure, but it was enough to made him a D-rate celebrity and I just can't believe they are trying to made him like a second version of Brown. Seriously? Do we need another bragger, wannabe-thug ghetto rapper superstar, woman beater in our lives? I don't think so.

Fortunately for all of us, I'm pretty sure this was the first AND the last time we heard something from him. Thank God for these little blessings.



6. Tove Lo - "Stay High (Habits Remix)"



Although this song officialy is from 2013 and it has been on rotation for a while, it is up until this year that it's finding some well deserved success. Sad thing, it is not even the originl the one it's making all the fuss. It is a good remix that cuts half off the lyrics and the saddest meaning of the song, which is fucking nuts, because the song in its entirety is brilliant, and moving, and touching.

And it hurts when tunes this good get the remix treatment and get cut in the process, and then people will forget about them and the artists that created them. Which is really infuriating. Hopefuuly Tove Lo doesn't get that fate, but so far, she is headed that way.

Would you please enjoy the real deal? Thanks.



(And for those interested, there is a first version of this video, that I watched last year, which is more decadent and artsy than this one. Look if you dare).



7, MKTO - "Classic"



Name-checking songs are done by the dozens, but this one was very tongue-in-cheek and actually kind of clever, and mostly fun. But the unecessary presence of a sub-par "rapper" made the whole ordeal a little bit over the top. Still, this song found a public and still in heavy rotation.

Despite all of that, the formula "White crooner - Black Rapper" is not very much well executed, and I don't think this could last or be inventive enough in the long term. And seriosuly, someone give better verses to the rapper here, he's atrocious.



So far, these are the songs I got. Did you agree with me or I am way off on my predictions? Sound off on the comments!

With Gaga giving a tribute or ripping off some styles..... You decide.

How about a musical math? It is not boring, I assure you:

Chaka Khan's hair and sass

+

Amy Winehouse's expression and fashion

=

Lady Gaga's new image

In my heart I believe she is only paying tribute to these great legends by spoofing a very late 80's image in this one. Chaka Khan, who I'm not very familiar to begin with, is one of the greatest soul and R&B exponents of that era, and well, what can we say about Amy Winehouse, with her untimely death that still feels like something unbearable. But to be honest, Gaga has looked better before, so I'm not sure if this is a right image now that she has decided to throw a jazz album along Mr. Tony Bennett. Maybe it's all part of the plan.

What do you think of that?

How much European is TOO European?

I have to tell you something; I don't understand why American people can't cope with European music.

Why is that, you say? Right now there are tons of European acts on the Billboard charts; The Beatles were from the UK; Adele was the most sold artist a couple of years ago on US and she's also British; and so on. You get the point.

However, how come that they always receive different treatment on videos, singles and the like, when they come from Europe?

I have several examples on this, and I'm not going to bore you with useless data, so check out those videos and watch for yourself how different are things from Europe (UK, especifically) once they get the "American treatment":


ALL SAINTS - "NEVER EVER"

UK Version



US Version



I mean, what was the point? The UK version was in accord to the song, and the US version looks like a demonstration on special effects on Hollywood, and some random flowers and animals. And that was it.




ACE OF BASE

UK Version - "Life is a Flower"






US Version - "Whenever You're Near Me"





Basically, another song, another tempo, another everything. "Whenever..." wasn't even a proper single. I know "Life is a Flower" sounds so corny on paper, but it was a good song. Why they thought Americans wouldn't like it, we'll never know.




LEONA LEWIS - "BLEEDING LOVE"

UK Version






US Version





OK, in this case, American version is better and more in tune with the song. But why is the need to make different videos for a song about a heartbreak? We all understand the concept, which in the US version is loud and clear. UK version is more cryptic, I guess.




NATASHA BEDINGFIELD - "THESE WORDS"

UK Version






US Version





Maybe, and this is just a guess, they wouldn't want people to take Natasha as a Pink clone, as seen in the first video. Or maybe, the cheesy effect of multiple Natasha's threw them off. But clearly, UK version is less generic and got soul.




CHER LLOYD - "WANT U BACK"

UK Version






US Version




I know they were supposed to portray Cher as a sassy, salacious girl because they didn't know her from UK's "X Factor", but the American version is pure nonsense. UK's more fun, if you ask me. But thanks for getting rid of that awful rap, I guess.




JOHN NEWMAN - "LOVE ME AGAIN"

UK Version






US Version





In the obsession to tell a story, many sins are portrayed here. Meanwhile the first video is stylish, simple and classic, on the US version we have the old "Romeo and Julieta" treatment that is yawning, really. And the ending? Please don't make me. Just don't.



What can we infer here? It is obvious that things are different on both continets, but we all can agree that music and its message is the same. So I don't really see the need to make various videos for different approches, if the music is the same. Unless you really, really, are doing something inappropiate on the European version.

But really, how am I complaining? We have two videos for the same price, so it's a win-win, isn't it?

What a difference a year can make....

Looking back, this has been a pretty good year in music. But we're still expecting that song that blow us away and make us swoon all over. But in the meantime, let's take a look back at what some of our favorite artists (and some others) were doing on July 2013, and how they are doing today. This should be fun.


ROBIN THICKE

July 2013: He was enjoying the success of "Blurred Lines", of course, song of the summer 2013, and ready to drop his then new album, also titled "Blurred Lines". He was the flavor of the month, with a beautiful wife, and things seemed pretty well for him, after years of struggling making a mark on the world of music. Only good things seemed to come in his way.

July 2014: "Blurred Lines" proved to be a one-trick pony for him, although the album was full of good tunes, but none of them made the same impression on the general public. He twerked along Miley, got accused of misoginy by his lyrics, get separated from his wife, and made an embarrasingly new album ("Paula") as a plea for forgiveness, but really, no "Blurred Lines" here. Not even "Lost Without U". Only sad, pathetic and shameful tunes. Oh, and also, got eviscerated on Twitter, but again, who doesn't?






BEYONCÉ

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July 2013: She was in the middle of a world tour, and giving several teases of new music and a much awaited album, which fans (including me, of course) were waiting impatiently. In the meantime, she was having fun, and maybe (maybe) mocking all of us who were really growing desperate for our dosis of new Bey's music.

July 2014: Of course, it's her year. Dropping a full self-titled new album out of nowhere, with her corresponding music videos, and embarking on a new tour with her husband. Of course, nothing is perfect, and after all the hoopla about her now infamous elevator brawl between her sister, Solange, and her husband, and an implying accusation of cheating towards Jay Z, they have done nothing to harm her image and her reigning on pop. After all, she's Queen B, y'all.

IGGY AZALEA

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July 2013: She was still an unknown commodity on the US, but the UK was well aware of her antics. She was about to embark on an Australian tour (where she is from) as an opening act for Beyoncé, Her still untitled album was supposed to drop at the time, but the label decided to postpone it, much to her disdain. But things were about to get interesting for her, obviously.

July 2014: Well. First off, she managed to tie The Beatles as a new artist having a No. 1 and 2 with her official first single (the omnipresent "Fancy" featuring Charli XCX and Ariana Grande's "Problem" as a featured artist) on Billboard Charts. And then, being the first female rapper (yes, she IS a rapper, an australian white one) to be at the top of Billboard for 6 weeks in a row. And, obviously, being dissed by Nicki Minaj, but again, who doesn't? 

MARIAH CAREY

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July 2013: Mariah was on the verge of having her second big comeback, via releasing her expected album which she entitled "The Art of Letting Go", but she postponed it for some reason. The album was already well awaited after "#Beautiful", that song with Miguel which was just great. And after a much publicised gig on American Idol, along with "Frenemy" Nicki Minaj (both hated it), thing went all sour.

July 2014: Finally, she released her new album, with the astounding name "Me.I Am Mariah: The Elusive Chanteuse" (no kidding here). That title certainly didn't pick the interest of the general public, since it's the first Mariah release to not achieve 100,000 copies at the first week, making it a lowest in her career. The bad thing? The album is really good, much better than 2009's "Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel" (Oh, Mariah, you and your titles). Maybe she should go back to name her albums on a single word. They have been the most succesful.

SAM SMITH

Via

July 2013: Sam already made a No.1 hit with "La La La", a Naughty Boy track, on the UK, and it was about time to start making music on his own. He was unknown at the time on the US, but it was very clear that great things were ahead of him.

July 2014: And ideed great things came for him. He released his album, "In The Lonely Hour", which went to No. 1 on the UK and No. 2 on the US. He's now friend with Taylor Swift, with granted, made him kind of famous on the US and of course it helped to create a lot of buzz around him. But clearly, this guy is talented, and deserving of the success he is having.

So yes, a year can be a difference between success and failure. And it definitely a lot of things can happen in such a tiny frame of time. So remember: you can still find love, become rich and have a great career in music one year from now. What are you waiting for? Go get it! But remember: hard work is always part of the ecuation. Simple as that. Cheers!

Looking over my shoulder
I was so much younger then
I can't believe what happened
A year ago today

Delta Goodrem, "A Year Ago Today".

Thing that are so alike (to me) until they're not...

Basically this is a lazy post, so forgive me for that. But I have this idea, about things in music that sound basically the same, but they are not related at all. Unless, of course, I'm actually out of my mind and they don't sound the same. But I think I'm right on some of them, so please, let me know what you think in the comments (don't be shy, you can curse me all you want!)

1. The intro of "Let It Go" (the right version, not Demi's)...



... and the intro of "All Of Me" by John Legend.



I know, I know, they are different, and it's only the piano, but sometimes, when I heard the first accords, I was having a hard time telling them apart. So sue me.


2. New PSY featuring Snoop Dogg (!), "Hangover" (especially the chorus)...



...and Lil' Wayne's "A Milli" (which I ADORE).



A no-brainer. The fact that practically Snoops raps the entire song should be an indication of that. An aside: I guess Snoop Lion didn't stick, and now he's doing duets with PSY. Well, it happens.


3. The videos "Ride" and "Born To Die" by Lana del Rey...





...and Taylor Swift "I Know You Were Trouble".



I mean, duh. I guess Taylor thought this was a good idea, but Lana pulled it off effortless, and Taylor looked really out of field. But I like those songs, so I guess it's a win-win for all (not for Lana, though, she were never credited for those gorgeous mini-movies).


4. "Bedtime Story" by Madonna, circa 1995 (Live on the Brits!)...



... and Lady Gaga's "ARTPOP" (Live on The Tonight Show) circa 2014.



Yeah, I'm putting this out there to see what kind of reaction it gets. Seriously, the first time I watched Gaga's performance I reminisced of that unique performance by Madonna (unique in the sense that Madonna didn't proper toured or promoted "Bedtime Stories" on other venues). And I like both songs. And they looked so similar. For me, anyway.


5. The "Heart Attack" epidemy on pop... not literally, thank God.











What's so romantic about a heart attack? No, just no. Heartache will be fine, but a heart attack sound more like going on a rush to ER than anything else. Funny thing: these are all from the last two years, so I think they're out of ideas here.

And so am I. Until next post, where I can really talk about important stuff, I guess. Or at least more exciting, I promise.

Gaga, Kelly and Richardson: too sexual? Get out of here!

This week, footage of the not-released video of "Do What U Want" song by Lady Gaga was leaked...

Basically, a sexy medical appointment (!) with R. Kelly, a supposed gynechologist (!) and scenes from her seminaked, dancing around some tabloids and covered only with newspapers. Nothing particularly shocking, by Gaga standards.


But then, the Internet exploded, accusing Gaga of promoting rape. New York Post commented: "Gaga had a video by an alleged sexual predator, starring another sexual predator. With the theme 'I'm going to do whatever I want with your body'? It was literally an ad for rape."


And you know what? I wholeheartedly agree with that.


Let's look at the facts, shall we?


1. "Do What U Want" was one of the few songs from "Artpop" album that gained notoriety despite the risquee lyrics. The phrase "Do what you want with my body" is not exactly a subtle invitation. but Gaga was very clear that this was intended for all the "haters" that made comments about her body.


2. Then, in an act of revenge (?), she decided to make this cover for the single:

as a big "Fuck You" to all her detractors. Coincidentally, this photo was taken by Terry Richardson, the director of "Do What U Want" no-video (more on him later).


3. The song is a mixture of synth pop and R&B, with a ver 80's vibe. So accordingly, she decided to recruit R. Kelly, who has made that particular sound a trademark of his own. Many outlets were not happy with the duet partner, given the background of Kelly, which includes 'allegedly' having sex with underage girls and peeing on women, not mentioning the fact that he was accused of marrying Aaliyah (RIP) when she was 15. The nerve.


4. The song was not meant to be released, although being a fan-favorite, and with the cold reception towards the already-announced second single, "Venus", Gaga and her team decided to give it a shot. By this time, "Artpop" had failed to reach the heights of their predecessor album, "Born This Way", so a plan to save the album through this song was put on motion.


5. Gaga heavily promoted DWUW through all over the media. Here, the two most controversial presentations, both with R. Kelly. To me, these two are, at best, overrated, since Gaga has been doing real performances with all so much gimmick and better results.







6. Gaga recruited famed Richardson to shoot the video for DWUW. Richardson had recently made his way through the video media with positive outcome. Among others, he directed Miley Cyrus' "Wrecking Ball" (no strange to controversy itself) and Beyoncé's "XO" (which seems odd since 'Yonce is very much aware who she associates with). Richardson had a very high profile in Hollywood, with his risquee and at times rauchy portfolio, which for me is also way overrated.

...again, no subtlety here (can you start to see the pattern?) Besides, Richardson has been deemed a "creepy guy" and recently some models alleged that he has conducted inappropiate sexual behavior towards them. He maintains his innocence, because you see, he only photographs sexual imagery, he doesn't perform it. Alrighty, then.


7. So, after all this, Gaga deemed appropiate to shoot a video featuring R. Kelly and directed by Richardson, because why not? The joke tells itself. But then, on an unexpected move, she decided to drop completely the project, at that time blaming "others" that wanted to damage her integrity and artistry and so on. Gaga, queen of controversy, decided to pull off something that reads "controversial" since this inception.


But now, it seems very clear that even for Gaga this was more than what she bargain form, and we can't blame her. According to the images, Gaga is somewhat sedated and then they decided to have a party with her while unconscious. R. Kelly as a bad doctor is somewhat discomforting, and we cannot really fathom what was Gaga thinking at the time she made this video.


Then again, we will wait impatiently for it to come out, so we can judge accordingly.

In the end, DWUW is really a great song, and thus I decided to stick (pardon the expression) with the Gaga/Christina version, another controversial decision, more on the line of  "I never in life thought these two would sing together, I thought they hate each other" category than in the "OMG! This is so raunchy even for my standards" category. And for me, this works better. Cannot embed the video, so please follow the link if you haven't been blessed by that performance. Heaven, indeed.


So sound off: is it truly "shocking" this no-video for Gaga? Have you seen it coming? (Again, sorry for the pun).

App of The Week (end): Groove

As an avid iPhone user, I feel it is my duty to lead you towards this App I discovered recently, which will improve at the nth your experience on your Music playlists. Its name is Groove.

Groove gives to your Music library an entirely new look, and a slick one while at that. The native Music Player on the iPhone is kinda boring, so Groove is a real improvement if you happen to have great taste and like your music as a whole experience, both audibly and visually.

Powered with last.fm, Groove creates Playslists based on your library, as diverse as the music you have on your iPhone. It also gives them quality portraits, and like I said before, it's easy on the eyes, so basically this is all you ask for a music player (besides sound quality, of course).

The maximum of songs of each playlist is 25 songs, but that's OK. After it finishes, the playlist restarts and you have new 25 songs (that depends obviously on how many songs you have). You can save playlists by pinching the star down below and voilá! Also, you can sync it with your Facebook profile, and publish your playlists or what you are listening at any given moment.

(BTW, I don't think 50 Cent or Matt Pokora are The Worst Thing that Happen to Music. I mean, after all, "Macarena " exists and it is still played, so there's that).

So if you have an iPhone and a US App account, you should definitely download this gem. It's for free, so what are you waiting for?