By the time I have written this little blog post I have replayed the one minute snippet of Garbage's new single "I hate love," at least six times.
I regret nothing.
First off, I'm glad they are back. The four piece band that is a collection of seasoned professionals in the music industry. It's always surprising that people want to dismiss that fact as if that makes Garbage less authentic or relevant by some really sheer and logically inconclusive moot point. The fact of the matter is, that garbage is an amazing band that knows how to craft dark pop with little or no room for marginal error.
After the last album, the return to rock, brick-and-mortar "Bleed Like Me," Garbage was doing a more organic type of sound: crunchy guitars, Shirley Manson's seductive yet strong vocals and Butch Vig's signature I-made-the-90s production. Yet, so far the snippet of "I Hate Love" is promising. Dancey and yet mildly morose, "I Hate Love" is picking up where in theory, where the band's second album the aptly named "Version 2.0" left off. Bring on the flaw-free production!
"Not Your Kind of People" is slated for a May release. But everyone is excited to have them back, in under a minute tickets for the band's LA show sold out.
Showing posts with label music. Show all posts
Showing posts with label music. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Bon Iver's win is the Grammy's big loss
Justin Vernon, frontman for indie folk group "Bon Iver," accepted the Grammy for best new band tonight. Not only was it a big win for the band, it was a big loss for the Grammys themselves.
Bon Iver released their first album in 2007. In case you need a hand with this, the current year is 2012.
That's five years.
Maybe the people who make such decisions define "New Artist" as "the band you heard your grandson talking about." Or maybe you aren't considered new until you are a No. 2 Billboard success. Much like the Academy Awards, this is outing the Grammys as nothing more than a commercial reach-around for the people who keep them rich.
I want to make one thing clear: I enjoy Bon Iver. This isn't a matter of me hating on the band; it's simply an amazing showing of where modern entertainment stands: the best movies, music, etc. doesn't matter to the industry. It all boils down to who does the best job of keeping them in business.
While people are Occupying Wall Street, maybe we should have an Occupy Universal movement and try to give art back to the people who enjoy it more than money.
Bon Iver released their first album in 2007. In case you need a hand with this, the current year is 2012.
That's five years.
Maybe the people who make such decisions define "New Artist" as "the band you heard your grandson talking about." Or maybe you aren't considered new until you are a No. 2 Billboard success. Much like the Academy Awards, this is outing the Grammys as nothing more than a commercial reach-around for the people who keep them rich.
I want to make one thing clear: I enjoy Bon Iver. This isn't a matter of me hating on the band; it's simply an amazing showing of where modern entertainment stands: the best movies, music, etc. doesn't matter to the industry. It all boils down to who does the best job of keeping them in business.
While people are Occupying Wall Street, maybe we should have an Occupy Universal movement and try to give art back to the people who enjoy it more than money.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Grammys crown new stars and salute lost ones
There was no getting around it, last night's 54th Annual Grammys Awards would be held with a heavy heart. Host LL Cool J set the tone beautifully when he opened the show with a prayer declaring "we've had a death in the family."
However, it was when he said that music would help everyone through the tragedy of Whitney Houston's passing and decided we should all celebrate music, that he made it ok to relax and enjoy the rest of the show.
While it was no secret that Adele would win everything, it was still great to see it happen. It's rare that the best album of the year actually wins album of the year.
What everyone was waiting for was her return to the stage following career threatening vocal surgery. However, she stole the show with a spectacular rendition of her still awesome hit "Rolling in the Deep."
Adele ended up going six for six, including album, song and record of the year. As popular as she was before, last night's triumph has launched her into superstar status.
The night's other big winners were the Foo Fighters, who walked away with five of the six awards they were nominated for. Their only loss came in the album of the year category.
Other highlights included a fun, gold lame and pompadoured Bruno Mars trying to get the audience off their "rich asses," a very classy and understated Tony Bennett/Carrie Underwood duet and an extremely moving tribute to Etta James by Alicia Keys and Bonnie Raitt.
However, the only moment that mattered was Jennifer Hudson's emotional rendition of "I Will Always Love You" to celebrate and remember Whitney Houston.
Hudson delivered a perfect simple version of the Whitney classic, allowing fans and friends alike to engage in a cathartic relief of their grief.
It was a moment that won't soon be forgotten as Whitney took over the Grammy stage one final time.
However, it was when he said that music would help everyone through the tragedy of Whitney Houston's passing and decided we should all celebrate music, that he made it ok to relax and enjoy the rest of the show.
While it was no secret that Adele would win everything, it was still great to see it happen. It's rare that the best album of the year actually wins album of the year.
What everyone was waiting for was her return to the stage following career threatening vocal surgery. However, she stole the show with a spectacular rendition of her still awesome hit "Rolling in the Deep."
Adele ended up going six for six, including album, song and record of the year. As popular as she was before, last night's triumph has launched her into superstar status.
The night's other big winners were the Foo Fighters, who walked away with five of the six awards they were nominated for. Their only loss came in the album of the year category.
Other highlights included a fun, gold lame and pompadoured Bruno Mars trying to get the audience off their "rich asses," a very classy and understated Tony Bennett/Carrie Underwood duet and an extremely moving tribute to Etta James by Alicia Keys and Bonnie Raitt.
However, the only moment that mattered was Jennifer Hudson's emotional rendition of "I Will Always Love You" to celebrate and remember Whitney Houston.
Hudson delivered a perfect simple version of the Whitney classic, allowing fans and friends alike to engage in a cathartic relief of their grief.
It was a moment that won't soon be forgotten as Whitney took over the Grammy stage one final time.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Whitney Houston dead at age 48
On the eve of music's biggest night the industry has suffered one of it's biggest losses with the death of Whitney Houston at just 48 years old.
Houston became an international superstar in the 1980s following hits like "The Greatest Love of All," "How Will I Know" and "Saving All My Love For You." Her powerhouse vocals and girl next door appeal made her an instant success.
From the mid 80s to the late 90s Houston was the queen of R&B and pop radio with hits like "I Wanna Dance With Somebody," "Didn't We Almost Have It All," "Where Do Broken Hearts Go," "He's All the Man I Need" and "I'm Your Baby Tonight."
However, it was the film "The Bodyguard" and its accompanying soundtrack that made her a legend. The opening 45 seconds of "I Will Always Love You" display a level of tone and control that no singer can match. Couple that with the breathtaking belt of "I Have Nothing" and the album was destined to be huge.
Perhaps her greatest moment came in 1991 at Super Bowl 25 when she performed what is widely considered as the best version of "The Star Spangled Banner" just when the US had entered into the first Gulf War. The rendition was so beloved that it was released as a single and became a No. 1 hit and is still talked about to this day.
In recent years Houston became more well known for her personal struggles with drugs and alcohol, and her tumultuous marriage with Bobby Brown, but she was attempting a comeback that will sadly never come to fruition
In the coming days there will be a lot of discussion about Houston's legacy, however, those answers can be found in the voices of Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, Beyonce, Charice, Celine Dion and every "American Idol" or "The Voice" contestant who tries to conquer a Whitney song.
"I Will Always Love You" indeed.
Houston became an international superstar in the 1980s following hits like "The Greatest Love of All," "How Will I Know" and "Saving All My Love For You." Her powerhouse vocals and girl next door appeal made her an instant success.
From the mid 80s to the late 90s Houston was the queen of R&B and pop radio with hits like "I Wanna Dance With Somebody," "Didn't We Almost Have It All," "Where Do Broken Hearts Go," "He's All the Man I Need" and "I'm Your Baby Tonight."
However, it was the film "The Bodyguard" and its accompanying soundtrack that made her a legend. The opening 45 seconds of "I Will Always Love You" display a level of tone and control that no singer can match. Couple that with the breathtaking belt of "I Have Nothing" and the album was destined to be huge.
Perhaps her greatest moment came in 1991 at Super Bowl 25 when she performed what is widely considered as the best version of "The Star Spangled Banner" just when the US had entered into the first Gulf War. The rendition was so beloved that it was released as a single and became a No. 1 hit and is still talked about to this day.
In recent years Houston became more well known for her personal struggles with drugs and alcohol, and her tumultuous marriage with Bobby Brown, but she was attempting a comeback that will sadly never come to fruition
In the coming days there will be a lot of discussion about Houston's legacy, however, those answers can be found in the voices of Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, Beyonce, Charice, Celine Dion and every "American Idol" or "The Voice" contestant who tries to conquer a Whitney song.
"I Will Always Love You" indeed.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Etta James' top five classics
Legendary blues singer Etta James may be most well known for the wedding staple "At Last," but her list of hits included many other classics that must be celebrated as James is remembered.
1. "I'd Rather Go Blind" - In two and a half minutes James' heart-wrenching vocals tell the story of everyone who has ever had a broken heart.
2. "At Last" - A timeless expression of true love that will be James' lasting legacy.
3. "I Just Want to Make Love to You." - A sexy, passionate plea that skips flowery statements of love and gets right to the point. Etta's sexiness was very ahead of its time.
4. "All I Could Do Was Cry" - Once again James captures every emotion of a break up in one song cementing her status as the queen of the broken-hearted ballad.
5. "Let's Burn Down the Cornfield" - This might be the sexiest song ever recorded. Women weren't supposed to sing the suggestive lyrics that James croons in this version of the longing plea where she tells her man where to wait and what she wants him to do to her.
For fans of Adele, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson and Amy Winehouse wondering who Etta James was and why she's so important to music history, these songs are the starting point for their Etta James playlists.
1. "I'd Rather Go Blind" - In two and a half minutes James' heart-wrenching vocals tell the story of everyone who has ever had a broken heart.
2. "At Last" - A timeless expression of true love that will be James' lasting legacy.
3. "I Just Want to Make Love to You." - A sexy, passionate plea that skips flowery statements of love and gets right to the point. Etta's sexiness was very ahead of its time.
4. "All I Could Do Was Cry" - Once again James captures every emotion of a break up in one song cementing her status as the queen of the broken-hearted ballad.
5. "Let's Burn Down the Cornfield" - This might be the sexiest song ever recorded. Women weren't supposed to sing the suggestive lyrics that James croons in this version of the longing plea where she tells her man where to wait and what she wants him to do to her.
For fans of Adele, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson and Amy Winehouse wondering who Etta James was and why she's so important to music history, these songs are the starting point for their Etta James playlists.
The lasting legacy of Etta James
The music world has suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Etta James. The R&B/blues singer died on Jan. 20 at the age of 73 after a long battle with leukemia and Alzheimer's.Though her signature song will always be "At Last," James' career encompasses so much more than the classic love song.
She began her career at 14 years old, touring with girl group the Peaches, however she really gained notoriety when she joined Chess records and released the hits "If I Can't Have You" and "All I Could Do was Cry."
Her run with Chess in the early '60s gave James many of her biggest hits and most successful songs including "I Just Want to Make Love to You," "Something's Got A Hold On Me," "A Sunday Kind of Love" and of course "At Last."
Unfortunately, her success also led James to a drug and alcohol addiction that would she battle her entire life. Her struggles with heroin led to a long string of legal problems that saw her spend several stints in rehab. She finally got clean at the age of 50 after she spent time at the Betty Ford Center.
Despite her issues with addiction, her talent could never be denied as she made several comebacks and continued to influence artists like Beyonce, who played her in the 2008 film "Cadillac Records."
James, never one to mince words, made no secret of the fact that she didn't care for Beyonce's performance in the film, which took poetic license with the story of the label's founding, and of the fact that Beyonce was chosen to sing "At Last" at President Obama's inauguration.
While her career was filled with controversy, one only needs to look as far as the current pop charts for the full scope of James legacy. Her timeless style can be found in the resurgence of soul and success of artists like Amy Winehouse and Adele whose music is reminiscent of James' early work.Her final album "The Dreamer" was released in November 2011. It features a raw stripped down version of the singer's classic blues voice. Her cover of "Misty Blue" has a heartbreaking finality to it that seems all too relevant now.
No doubt many stations will be playing "At Last" in tribute to the legend but all the passion, heartache and love of her music can really be found in "Misty Blue."
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Heavy D: 1967-2011
For anyone who grew up during the hip-hop/dance music days of the '90s, Heavy D and the Boyz were the architects of some of the best club jams ever.
Dwight "Heavy D" Myers passed away Nov. 8 after being found unconscious in his home and the rushed to the hospital.
Though his signature hit was "Now That We Found Love," he was also known for "The Overweight Lover's In the House" and "Is It Good To You." He also recorded the theme song for "In Living Color."
Though he doesn't get as much credit as his contemporaries Will Smith and LL Cool J, he was just as responsible for rap's increasing mainstream appeal. His cool lyrics and infinitely danceable beats caused suburban teenagers to request his music on pop stations and had his videos in high rotation on MTV.
When his rap career began to fade he turned to acting with recurring parts on "Living Single," "Bones" and "Boston Public" and roles in "The Cider House Rules," "Step Up" and the recently released "Tower Heist."
He recently made a stage comeback at the Michael Jackson Tribute Concert and the 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards, which makes this news all the more sad.
"In Living Color" is scheduled to return to TV in the spring, so here's hoping they keep the theme song as a nice tribute to Heavy D.
Dwight "Heavy D" Myers passed away Nov. 8 after being found unconscious in his home and the rushed to the hospital.
Though his signature hit was "Now That We Found Love," he was also known for "The Overweight Lover's In the House" and "Is It Good To You." He also recorded the theme song for "In Living Color."
Though he doesn't get as much credit as his contemporaries Will Smith and LL Cool J, he was just as responsible for rap's increasing mainstream appeal. His cool lyrics and infinitely danceable beats caused suburban teenagers to request his music on pop stations and had his videos in high rotation on MTV.
When his rap career began to fade he turned to acting with recurring parts on "Living Single," "Bones" and "Boston Public" and roles in "The Cider House Rules," "Step Up" and the recently released "Tower Heist."
He recently made a stage comeback at the Michael Jackson Tribute Concert and the 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards, which makes this news all the more sad.
"In Living Color" is scheduled to return to TV in the spring, so here's hoping they keep the theme song as a nice tribute to Heavy D.
Monday, August 29, 2011
MTV VMAS pay tribute to Amy Winehouse
On an otherwise underwhelming, at times boring Video Music Awards, MTV offered a superb tribute to the late Amy Winehouse.
It began with Winehouse's good friend Russell Brand speaking of their first meeting. He recounted how he thought she was just this crazy girl he knew, until he heard her voice.
"That incredible, extraordinary voice coming from that crazy person, a person I knew would wander stinking of the booze, a loopy, loose cannon person. I thought, how can that be coming out of her," he said.
Unlike most eulogies, it was a frank, warts and all discussion of Winehouse's battle with addiction and how that often contradicted her genius songwriting and vocals.
Brand then introduced the legendary Tony Bennett, who showed a video of he and Winehouse recording a duet for his upcoming album. The footage, shot in March, displayed the talent that the singer was capable of when she focused on her craft. It was a stark reminder of what music fans have truly lost.
Then R&B singer Bruno Mars performed an uptempo, doo-wop tinged version of Winehouse's "Valerie."
While I was prepared to see someone like Adele or Lady Gaga perform for the late singer, it turned out Mars was the perfect choice. His doo-wop soul sound is reminiscent of Winehouse and you could see them singing together if she were still alive.
His performance provided one of the night's genuinely nice moments and concluded a pitch perfect tribute to an artist who we didn't get enough time with.
It began with Winehouse's good friend Russell Brand speaking of their first meeting. He recounted how he thought she was just this crazy girl he knew, until he heard her voice.
"That incredible, extraordinary voice coming from that crazy person, a person I knew would wander stinking of the booze, a loopy, loose cannon person. I thought, how can that be coming out of her," he said.
Unlike most eulogies, it was a frank, warts and all discussion of Winehouse's battle with addiction and how that often contradicted her genius songwriting and vocals.
Brand then introduced the legendary Tony Bennett, who showed a video of he and Winehouse recording a duet for his upcoming album. The footage, shot in March, displayed the talent that the singer was capable of when she focused on her craft. It was a stark reminder of what music fans have truly lost.
Then R&B singer Bruno Mars performed an uptempo, doo-wop tinged version of Winehouse's "Valerie."
While I was prepared to see someone like Adele or Lady Gaga perform for the late singer, it turned out Mars was the perfect choice. His doo-wop soul sound is reminiscent of Winehouse and you could see them singing together if she were still alive.
His performance provided one of the night's genuinely nice moments and concluded a pitch perfect tribute to an artist who we didn't get enough time with.
Get More: 2011 VMA, Music, Bruno Mars
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Nick Ashford 1942-2011
Though many fans may not know the name Nick Ashford, they certainly know his music. With his wife and partner, Valerie Simpson, Ashford co-wrote popular songs for Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, Chaka Khan and Diana Ross.
Ashford died at the age of 70 Monday in a New York hospital after battling throat cancer.
Some of the duo's biggest hits include "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," "You're All I Need to Get By," "I Don't Need No Doctor" and "I'm Every Woman."
Ashford & Simpson were also a successful recording duo in their own right. They are most famous for the 1984 hit "Solid (As a Rock)."
Ashford and Simpson were married for 38 years and have two daughters.
Popular music would not have been the same without the talent and influence of Nick Ashford.
Ashford died at the age of 70 Monday in a New York hospital after battling throat cancer.
Some of the duo's biggest hits include "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," "You're All I Need to Get By," "I Don't Need No Doctor" and "I'm Every Woman."
Ashford & Simpson were also a successful recording duo in their own right. They are most famous for the 1984 hit "Solid (As a Rock)."
Ashford and Simpson were married for 38 years and have two daughters.
Popular music would not have been the same without the talent and influence of Nick Ashford.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Keith Urban takes over Vegas
Here are some pictures from tonight's Keith Urban concert in Las Vegas.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
My Chemical Romance still puts on the best rock concert ever
Really though. They do.
FINALLY, after buying these tickets on pre-sale for being a member of MCRmy 6 months ago, the My Chemical Romance concert was in LA last night!
They have been my favorite band for years, since the first time I heard Helena, which helped me through the grieving process after losing a good friend of mine to cancer. I have been to their shows before, but NOTHING was as epic as this!
Their new album "Danger Days" is about being nothing but what you are and fighting against conformity. So they have thrown out the script and now every single show they do is different from all the others. No more script. Just rockin' the @#$% out! ...as Gerard put it on stage last night.
Nothing will ever beat the love I have for this band. I fight for them tooth and nail whenever I need to, because that's how important and life saving their music is to me.
Anyway... as always, a fantastic concert. These boys truly know how to outdo themselves. Time and time again. Gerard left the stage after "Bulletproof Heart", the final song of the encore, bidding us all good night with "Whatever you do, don't stop running!"
Oh, and this was the first time EVER I have been crowd surfing. WHAT A BLAST!
Here's a few videos from last night:
"Na Na Na" and "Give 'Em Hell, Kid"
LEMME SEE YOU JAZZ HANDS!
"Mama"
This is one of my favorite songs to see them perform live. It gets CRAZY!
"House of Wolves"
Talk about a crazy mosh pit. LOVE this song live as well.
"Welcome to the Black Parade"
This song is best live, because EVERYONE sings along. EPIC.
"Bulletproof Heart"
This song live... there are no words. TOO EPIC.
"Helena"
Always and forever, my favorite song in this world. I always tear up when I see them perform it live.
"Vampires Will Never Hurt You"
A HUGE SURPRISE. A song from their first album, I have NEVER seen them perform this song live, and the crowd with CRAZY.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
The Aquabats make music fun
It's well-know around here that Weezer used to be my favorite band. I loved, loved them throughout my teen years and most of my adult life so far.
There are many reasons I say "used to be." One of the main ones is that 99 percent of the good Weezer songs are a bit depressing.
Nowadays there is already enough going on in the world and my life that's depressing, so I want to listen to music that is fun.
Enter The Aquabats.
I've known of the band for quite some time. But, never heard any of their music.
Until Coachella.
I just happened upon their set and loved it.
They have a taste for the theatrical, which is refreshing. And band members also helped create the wild show "Yo Gabba Gabba."
So, I bought one of their CDs right at the festival.
Then this week I bought the band's newest CD "Hi-Five Soup!"
And I've been listening to it non-stop and smiling all the way through.
Their music is not meant to be taken seriously and I kind of like that. There is enough serious crap to deal with without having to put the same standards into music.
Here are some of the topics of songs in the CD: hugs, pink pants, popping a wheelie, big friends, fighting sharks and having a food fight on the moon.
Seriously.
Some of the standouts of the CD include the songs "My B.F.F.!," "Hey Homies!," "All My Money!"
and "Pink Pants!"Notice the overuse of exclamation points! I kind of love that.
The sound is very ska-ish with a twinge of pop and funk.
Take a look at their performance of "My B.F.F.!" at Coachella and you get a sense of the addictive fun the band creates.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Nate Dogg 1969-2011
Last night hip hop legend Nate Dogg passed away. Born Nathaniel Hale, Nate Dogg was an essential figure in the west coast hip hop scene.
He was known for singing smooth hooks on songs by Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Ludacris, 50 Cent and Tupac. Basically any rap star who released a song in the '90s had to have Nate Dogg on their track. Working with him was like a rite of passage.
His best work was probably on the Warren G classic "Regulate" and in the hilarious Chris Rock film "Head of State," where he was the narrator.
He had suffered strokes in 2007 and 2008 and was still dealing with the after effects. A cause of death hasn't been released yet. Nate Dogg was 41.
He was known for singing smooth hooks on songs by Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Ludacris, 50 Cent and Tupac. Basically any rap star who released a song in the '90s had to have Nate Dogg on their track. Working with him was like a rite of passage.
His best work was probably on the Warren G classic "Regulate" and in the hilarious Chris Rock film "Head of State," where he was the narrator.
He had suffered strokes in 2007 and 2008 and was still dealing with the after effects. A cause of death hasn't been released yet. Nate Dogg was 41.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
See this movie! (in a nutshell)
Saw "Take Me Home Tonight" this afternoon and loved, loved it.
It's getting a bad rap for some reason and that's just too bad.
Full review on this week's show, but for now check out this music video featuring the stars of the film hitting up almost every classic '80s movie moments.
Not a giant fan of the cover, but still...
Best part of all is at 3:19-3:20, don't drink anything during that portion or you'll spit all over the monitor:
It's getting a bad rap for some reason and that's just too bad.
Full review on this week's show, but for now check out this music video featuring the stars of the film hitting up almost every classic '80s movie moments.
Not a giant fan of the cover, but still...
Best part of all is at 3:19-3:20, don't drink anything during that portion or you'll spit all over the monitor:
Monday, February 14, 2011
The Grammys: So that happened
Last night's Grammy awards provided a nice mix of music for the whole family. There was Justin Bieber for the kids, Mick Jagger and Barbra Streisand for the parents and Lady Gaga for the misunderstood cousin.
The show opened with a rousing tribute to the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin, which featured Yolanda Adams, Martina McBride, Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson and Florence Welch. Each singer took a turn performing one of Aretha's classics in what felt like the best karaoke competition ever.
Since they only hand out 10 awards on the show, it is a performance heavy night. Big winners included Lady Antebellum who won for song and record of the year for "Need You Now" and in the the biggest surprise of the night, Arcade Fire for album of the year.
In the night's second biggest surprise, outstandingly talented jazz musician Esperanza Spaulding won for Best New Artist, beating out front runners Bieber and Drake. What happened is Drake and Bieber probably split the vote leaving room for Spaulding, but that doesn't take anything away from her as she is really good and deserves to be recognized. I can only hope this makes more people interested in her music.
Unfortunately, she is now becoming a victim to the Bieber Army, as she is being bashed on Twitter by thousands of heartbroken girls. These kids need to realize that the number of Twitter followers and movie tickets sold has nothing to do with who wins a Grammy.
Anyway, back to the performances, Lady Gaga followed up her red carpet theatrics with a cool yet surprisingly normal performance of her new single "Born This Way."
The most spectacular performance of the night belonged to Bruno Mars, B.o.B and Janelle Monae who joined together for a triple threat of their big hits. B.oB. started it off with "Nothin on You," then Mars launched into a exciting old school doo-wop version of "Grenade," and then Monae concluded with a crowd surfing, manic yet awesome performance.
After some average performances by Muse, Miranda Lambert and Lady Antebellum, Eminem showed up to re-energize the crowd.
Rhianna began with "Love the Way You Lie Part 2" with Adam Levine of Maroon 5 on piano and backing vocals, then Eminem jumped in bringing life to the domestic abuse tale, this ferocious performance was followed by Skylar Grey and Dr. Dre on Dre's new single "I Need a Doctor" and judging by the crowd reaction, the fans agree with that title.
The night's most fun performance came in the form of Cee-Lo, Gwyneth Paltrow and a cast of Muppets rocking out to the ridiculously catchy "Forget You." Cee-Lo was decked out in his finest Elton John 1970s costume and fit right in with the hilarious puppet band. Paltrow then showed up halfway through and seemed to be performing in character as Holly Holliday from "Glee." Coming late in the show, it was a nice wake up call.
Rhianna popped back up with Drake for a sexy rendition of their current single "What's My Name." After watching them perform together, if they're not already dating again, they will be soon. This performance also came near the end of the show and helped liven the proceedings.
The show surprisingly ended on time with a follow up performance from Arcade Fire after they won their album of the year Grammy.
The ratings are up from last year's show and the Grammys earned some credibility with unconventional awards, but the most interesting part will be to see how wins effect the sales of Arcade Fire and Esperanza Spaulding.
The show opened with a rousing tribute to the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin, which featured Yolanda Adams, Martina McBride, Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson and Florence Welch. Each singer took a turn performing one of Aretha's classics in what felt like the best karaoke competition ever.
Since they only hand out 10 awards on the show, it is a performance heavy night. Big winners included Lady Antebellum who won for song and record of the year for "Need You Now" and in the the biggest surprise of the night, Arcade Fire for album of the year.
In the night's second biggest surprise, outstandingly talented jazz musician Esperanza Spaulding won for Best New Artist, beating out front runners Bieber and Drake. What happened is Drake and Bieber probably split the vote leaving room for Spaulding, but that doesn't take anything away from her as she is really good and deserves to be recognized. I can only hope this makes more people interested in her music.
Unfortunately, she is now becoming a victim to the Bieber Army, as she is being bashed on Twitter by thousands of heartbroken girls. These kids need to realize that the number of Twitter followers and movie tickets sold has nothing to do with who wins a Grammy.
Anyway, back to the performances, Lady Gaga followed up her red carpet theatrics with a cool yet surprisingly normal performance of her new single "Born This Way."
The most spectacular performance of the night belonged to Bruno Mars, B.o.B and Janelle Monae who joined together for a triple threat of their big hits. B.oB. started it off with "Nothin on You," then Mars launched into a exciting old school doo-wop version of "Grenade," and then Monae concluded with a crowd surfing, manic yet awesome performance.
After some average performances by Muse, Miranda Lambert and Lady Antebellum, Eminem showed up to re-energize the crowd.
Rhianna began with "Love the Way You Lie Part 2" with Adam Levine of Maroon 5 on piano and backing vocals, then Eminem jumped in bringing life to the domestic abuse tale, this ferocious performance was followed by Skylar Grey and Dr. Dre on Dre's new single "I Need a Doctor" and judging by the crowd reaction, the fans agree with that title.
The night's most fun performance came in the form of Cee-Lo, Gwyneth Paltrow and a cast of Muppets rocking out to the ridiculously catchy "Forget You." Cee-Lo was decked out in his finest Elton John 1970s costume and fit right in with the hilarious puppet band. Paltrow then showed up halfway through and seemed to be performing in character as Holly Holliday from "Glee." Coming late in the show, it was a nice wake up call.
Rhianna popped back up with Drake for a sexy rendition of their current single "What's My Name." After watching them perform together, if they're not already dating again, they will be soon. This performance also came near the end of the show and helped liven the proceedings.
The show surprisingly ended on time with a follow up performance from Arcade Fire after they won their album of the year Grammy.
The ratings are up from last year's show and the Grammys earned some credibility with unconventional awards, but the most interesting part will be to see how wins effect the sales of Arcade Fire and Esperanza Spaulding.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Teena Marie 1956-2010
Legendary R&B singer/songwriter Teena Marie passed away Dec. 26 at the age of 54. She was a protege of funk superstar Rick James and was known for hits like "Square Biz," "I Need Your Lovin" and "Fire and Desire."
Marie first appeared on the scene in the late '70s and became hugely popular in the 80s. Her 1979 debut album "Wild and Peaceful" featured her first big hit "I'm Just a Sucker for Your Love."
Her soulful, powerful voice made fans think she was black, so Motown founder Berry Gordy Jr. chose not to feature her photo on the album's cover. In fact it wasn't until her appearance on "Soul Train" that the majority of her fans discovered she was white.
As the decade progressed her soulful ballads of lost love and upbeat dance anthems made Marie a bonafide R&B star. Unfortunately, her self-described "fiery" relationship with James would lead to her downfall as she battled addiction and a changing music landscape.
However, her music has stayed popular on classic R&B stations and has been sampled by hip-hop artists like The Fugees and Foxy Brown.
She made a comeback in 1994 with "I'm Still in Love" and reunited with James at the 2004 BET Awards for a performance of the classic duet "Fire and Desire." Unfortunately, this would be their last appearance together since James died later that year.
Marie's voice was like no other and her influence on soul music can never be calculated as she was one of the first and only white artists to become hugely successful as a soul singer. Though she will be missed her music serves as a legacy of her talent and accomplishments.
R.I.P. the Ivory Queen of Soul, the Vanilla Child, Lady T.
Marie first appeared on the scene in the late '70s and became hugely popular in the 80s. Her 1979 debut album "Wild and Peaceful" featured her first big hit "I'm Just a Sucker for Your Love."
Her soulful, powerful voice made fans think she was black, so Motown founder Berry Gordy Jr. chose not to feature her photo on the album's cover. In fact it wasn't until her appearance on "Soul Train" that the majority of her fans discovered she was white.
As the decade progressed her soulful ballads of lost love and upbeat dance anthems made Marie a bonafide R&B star. Unfortunately, her self-described "fiery" relationship with James would lead to her downfall as she battled addiction and a changing music landscape.
However, her music has stayed popular on classic R&B stations and has been sampled by hip-hop artists like The Fugees and Foxy Brown.
She made a comeback in 1994 with "I'm Still in Love" and reunited with James at the 2004 BET Awards for a performance of the classic duet "Fire and Desire." Unfortunately, this would be their last appearance together since James died later that year.
Marie's voice was like no other and her influence on soul music can never be calculated as she was one of the first and only white artists to become hugely successful as a soul singer. Though she will be missed her music serves as a legacy of her talent and accomplishments.
R.I.P. the Ivory Queen of Soul, the Vanilla Child, Lady T.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
My Chemical Romance 'Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys'
I know I wasn't the only one that was completely all over herself when she picked up MCR's new album in stores last week and blasted it when their windows down, even though it was freaking cold outside.
Like the rest of the fan base, I have been waiting for their next album for the last four years and was greeted with what I believe to be the best work they have ever done.
As a long time fan ever since their break out hit "Helena", which helped me through the grieving process of a very good friend of mine, I am still overjoyed at the concept and message of this new story.
For many years, especially after the dark road that the listener makes through "The Black Parade", My Chemical Romance has been accused time and time again by outsiders that their music not only drives out the darkness of their fans, but makes them driven by it. I myself have been singled out by being a big fan, apparently not seeming the type to enjoy their music. But any outsider wouldn't understand that "The Black Parade" wasn't only a journey through a dark road, but it was a journey through suffering into the light...which only continues to get brighter in "Danger Days."
After two years of "The Black Parade" Tour, and two more years of rest and creating this new album, the band has been among many break up rumors and that this might in fact be their last album. Since it's release, many of the members have made it clear that is NOT at all true and that they will keep creating as long as it keeps coming.
Back at Comic Con 2009 when I attended Gerard's panel for "The Umbrella Academy" (a fantastic graphic novel), he explained that this new album would be like a love letter to rock 'n' roll. I have to definitely agree with that statement.
Not only does "Danger Days" remind us what is great about rock, and at times, take us back to the greats like Zepplin, AC/DC, and the Stones, the story of this album is more about the listeners than the artists. A story that takes place in the near future of 2019, and is a rebellion against conformity and criticism. About having your own voice and fighting for it. It is definitely as Gerard has said in many interviews, "This is definitely the loudest and brightest album" they have ever released.
It's the only CD that I have been listening to in the last week and am already singing along with each song. Here are a few of my favorites:
Na Na Na
Bulletproof Heart
Sing (will inspire a whole new wave of MCR tattoos)
Plantery GO! (especially can't wait to see this one performed live)
The Only Hope for Me is You
The Kids From Yesterday
It may not be until May, but I already bought my pre-sale tickets for their next show in Los Angeles, and am already planning my Killjoys uniform.
And make sure you check out their new and fantastically rebellious music video for the new hit "Sing":
Killjoys, MAKE SOME NOISE!
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Losing faith in the Weez
I think it is common knowledge around the world of Inscaped that Weezer is my favorite band.
I don't know what it is but the music has always connected with me.
No one can argue that "Pinkerton" is incredible stuff.
And if you try, then you'll lose that argument.
Heck, I even loved "Maladroit." I remember taking off early from work to go to Circuit City to get that on its release day.
I loved the "Red Album" and the fact that other members of the group wrote and sang some of the songs (those songs were some of my favorites on the CD.)
Then something happened.
"Raditude."
Don't get me wrong, I love a lot of the songs on that CD.
Especially the ones co-written outside of the group ("Put Me Back Together" and "Let It All Hang Out.")
But, lead singer Rivers Cuomo did something different around that time.
He put down the guitar and went solo in front with just a microphone.
And disaster struck.
Cuomo without a guitar is like a kid with ADHD out of control. He's flailing around and acting crazy.
It was obvious to me that Cuomo without his guitar is like Samson without his hair.
Bible reference FTW!
The geek power of Weezer was flowing through Cuomo and his guitar.
Now it's power run amok.
Recklessly pushing people over and kissing hands and shaking babies... somethings not right.
Then it was announced the new record would be called "Hurley" and the cover would be a close up photo of actor Jorge Garcia's face, the actor from "Lost."
Now I love "Lost" but come on... really?
I swear people turned around to look at me when I read the news because my eyes made this really scary sound when they started rolling out of control.
And to make matters worse? The first single.
Here it is... "Memories."
It sounds like Bad Religion started writing a Christmas song, then handed it off to New Order and they re-wrote it with breakup poetry.
I'll still buy "Hurley," because I won't totally give up on them yet.
Here are some recent performances that are giving me some glimmer of hope.
The above one works so well because of Pat Wilson on the keyboard.
I don't know what it is but the music has always connected with me.
No one can argue that "Pinkerton" is incredible stuff.
And if you try, then you'll lose that argument.
Heck, I even loved "Maladroit." I remember taking off early from work to go to Circuit City to get that on its release day.
I loved the "Red Album" and the fact that other members of the group wrote and sang some of the songs (those songs were some of my favorites on the CD.)
Then something happened.
"Raditude."
Don't get me wrong, I love a lot of the songs on that CD.
Especially the ones co-written outside of the group ("Put Me Back Together" and "Let It All Hang Out.")
But, lead singer Rivers Cuomo did something different around that time.
He put down the guitar and went solo in front with just a microphone.
And disaster struck.
Cuomo without a guitar is like a kid with ADHD out of control. He's flailing around and acting crazy.
It was obvious to me that Cuomo without his guitar is like Samson without his hair.
Bible reference FTW!
The geek power of Weezer was flowing through Cuomo and his guitar.
Now it's power run amok.
Recklessly pushing people over and kissing hands and shaking babies... somethings not right.
Then it was announced the new record would be called "Hurley" and the cover would be a close up photo of actor Jorge Garcia's face, the actor from "Lost."
Now I love "Lost" but come on... really?
I swear people turned around to look at me when I read the news because my eyes made this really scary sound when they started rolling out of control.
And to make matters worse? The first single.
Here it is... "Memories."
It sounds like Bad Religion started writing a Christmas song, then handed it off to New Order and they re-wrote it with breakup poetry.
I'll still buy "Hurley," because I won't totally give up on them yet.
Here are some recent performances that are giving me some glimmer of hope.
The above one works so well because of Pat Wilson on the keyboard.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Give the guy a break
OK, you might think this is the worst thing ever.
Alright it probably is.
But, give the guy a break after the year he's had.
Enjoy!
Alright it probably is.
But, give the guy a break after the year he's had.
Enjoy!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
The Grammys! OR... yawn
So the Grammy awards were announced and wow, same old same old.
Beyonce, again.
U2, again.
Do these people even get surprised anymore? Or do they come to expect it?
And if the same old, same old people don't get nominated, then it's the flashy new thing of the year. Lady GaGa, Kings of Leon?
People say the Oscars are lame because the same types of movies get nominated over and over, well, what about the Grammys?
They are the worst offenders. The only real surprise was "I'm On a Boat" got nominated for Best Rap Collaboration. Of course, it will lose because "Run This Town" is nominated too.
You couldn't turn your head without hearing that song in the last few months.
Stephanie might be the better person to gush about this, but I am a cynical music person.
Full list here: http://www.grammy.com/grammy_Awards/52nd_show/list.aspx
Beyonce, again.
U2, again.
Do these people even get surprised anymore? Or do they come to expect it?
And if the same old, same old people don't get nominated, then it's the flashy new thing of the year. Lady GaGa, Kings of Leon?
People say the Oscars are lame because the same types of movies get nominated over and over, well, what about the Grammys?
They are the worst offenders. The only real surprise was "I'm On a Boat" got nominated for Best Rap Collaboration. Of course, it will lose because "Run This Town" is nominated too.
You couldn't turn your head without hearing that song in the last few months.
Stephanie might be the better person to gush about this, but I am a cynical music person.
Full list here: http://www.grammy.com/grammy_Awards/52nd_show/list.aspx
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