Music speaks to me; at times more than English itself. It opens up a whole new way of thinking. Because to me… Music is a whole language on its own. A language unlike any other. A language that resonates love in its many forms.
Adele is one of
those artists that kind of catapulted into the spotlight and you automatically
are drawn to her.
What I love about her is that she seems like such a real
person. In all this fame and glitz it’s very easy for artists to lose themselves
and where they came from.
Some often let it go to their head. It’s admirable
how she manages to separate herself from that typical fame factor.
But Adele…well
she’s a class act...even when she’s flipping people off or cursing during an
acceptance speech! Haha. She really is just the cutest thing ever!
She’s very
open with her fans about who her songs are about and her reasons for writing
about them. Specifically Someone Like You, which made everyone and their mother want to hit her ex-boyfriend over the head with a steaming hot frying
pan. Anyhow, Adele
made history with her album “21,” and one of my favorites off this album has to
be Set Fire to the Rain.
Lyrics:
But there's a side to you
That I never knew, never knew.
All the things you'd say
They were never true, never true,
And the games you play
You would always win, always win.
[Chorus:]
But I set fire to the rain,
Watched it pour as I touched your face,
Well, it burned while I cried
'Cause I heard it screaming out your name, your name!
Basically I think Adele is known for her original
voice. Not many people have her style; I mean a few are now adopting it! But she was definitely the trendsetter…with the exception of the ultimate Aretha Franklin
of course. This song is just raw emotion. Like many songs, it reflects the good
and bad sides of a relationship…the bad taking the lead. It discusses how there is
a side to the person, she didn’t know existed. And by “setting fire to the
rain” , she’s letting it all go, airing it all out, and finally opening her eyes to the real world and
to the reality of who this person truly is. Her voice shows that attitude
within the chorus and you can tell she’s felt that pain before.
I actually saw Adele in concert, and she was truly
amazing. To see her in her element is something that you can’t really put into
words. Her voice was flawless, and she made the Beacon Theatre feel like her
living room. She talked to the crowd, and joked around, telling stories of her
ex- boyfriends. Cursing here and there, and it just struck me…this woman is
hysterical. Here she is…she’s not your typical stick skinny starlet, but she’s
beautiful. She carries herself well and has her own little classic Adele style
going on! Her hairdos are just too good for life. She’s a girl from London who likes to
drink, smoke, and who is proud of her body. She doesn't make apologies for who she is, and honestly I don't think any of this makes her any less of a classy lady. In fact I think she can be viewed as a role model, for
being ok with who she is. She’s bold but a sweetheart and the world loves her! I mean clearly how can you not haha...
As I've previously mentioned sometimes I find new music through the TV shows I watch and so today...I want to share a unique find with you...
“These Words” by singer/songwriter Jill Andrews...
(Skip to about the 3:40 mark to hear Jill perform the song live in the studio)
Lyrics:
Look me up When you’ve had your space When you’re ready To see my face In a room where we both could be Where somebody else May be loving me Would you ball up your hands? Would you clench your teeth? Would you walk away In disbelief? Are you ready to leave?
I felt so strongly about these lyrics because I felt like this is a song about moving away from a relationship that once meant a lot to you. And having that strength to be able to see that person face to face again and find a way to be and feel ok with it. That constant push and pull, back and forth of a complicated relationship, that even though you know leaving it is best, it still hurts and it's still difficult. It's a very common topic and the lyrics are easy to understand. You can also tell she's drawing from personal experience which often makes the artist more tangible toward their audience, as though they are reachable and relatable.
I think what drew me into this song was the intro; the first few lines:
“Hold me up Because I think I’ve fallen to you While you’ve fallen out of love with me...”
They kind of just stuck in my head and I
felt like I had to know who sang it, because the song urges you to
listen. Her voice is very soft, very sweet, but at the same time it’s
heartbreaking, and in a way it makes you want to know why. Or at least I
did, and once I found her, and I watched her perform the song, I
can safely say I got chills. I think for something so simple, and
organic; just a few guitars, the song really just gets to you.
Airs Tuesdays @ 8pm on the CW
So as my friend Lauren likes to joke, I am the only person in the world who watches the CW’s Hart of Dixie… and you know what maybe I am..I’m a girl, I like all that corny junk. But hey it stars Rachel Bilson (best known for her role as Summer on Fox’s The OC) and the show is also from the creators of that same once very popular teen drama. Can you say Seth Cohen?
Trademark Seth Cohen (played by actor Adam Brody)
Any who, I digress… the reason I
brought Hart of Dixie up is because this song was featured on a recent episode and I fell in love with it. So naturally I went on a search to find it! And when I did, I struck gold....with the discovery of Jill Andrews and these words.
Check out Jill's song at work on Hart of DixieHERE (around the 2:17 mark)
So once again shout out to Hart of Dixie for supplying me with a new musical interest…
that’s where I first fell for The Lumineers, when “Ho Hey” was featured on the show before
it ever got overplayed by radio stations, lol.
So I'm a HUGE Justin Timberlake Fan and I was super excited to hear he was coming out with new music this year.
And this TUESDAY was in deed the day, so as I've been poring over the new album...lyrics, music, and all I thought it'd be too hard to pick just one song to review...SO...
Ok so as you've probably guessed I'm not a musical expert, I'm just a music fan and I discuss my thoughts about songs and their lyrics and the song's meaning as I understand it.
With that being said even though I may not be an expert... my ears like what they hear! ;)
In the general sense the new album is
just that... an experience. Justin has offered explanations as to why he named it
"The 20/20 Experience," he has said that upon playing the record for
a good friend, the friend described it as "music you can see," thus
the play on 20/20 vision.
Justin's voice is on point...his
falsetto in tip top shape. And anyone comparing him to Robin Thicke...Just Ew...No. Justin's been known for his falsetto for quite the number of
years...this is no news. And really Justin is in a whole different ball game!
The album has a lot of soul, but at
the same time his initial sounds from when he first started out are still
evident. The sounds made popular by songs like Cry Me a River, and
Sexy Back.
Justin has once again utilized the idea of preludes and interludes within
many of these songs. We saw this done with a few tracks off of his sophomore
album "Future Sex Love Sounds," Tracks like "My Love,"
"Love Stoned," and "What Goes Around." Interludes and
Preludes are always my favorite parts, because even when you think the song is
ending it doesn't and it just gets increasingly better.
Anyhow, I feel that with this album....there's a song for everybody. Justin
has utilized all different music types, and sounds, and somehow managed to make
them all blend into one out of this world album. It's so interesting to see. He has the musical backing of his hand picked band; The Tennessee
Kids. And has really embraced a unique old school R&B sound at times infusing a little Latin flavor with songs like Let the Groove Get In. It's
almost as though it pays homage to the musical likings of Michael Jackson/ The Jackson 5,
Prince, Stevie Wonder and The Temptations.The album shows a lot of artistic growth and you can tell just how much music means to him, and how he carefully took the time to craft this record...(he only made us wait about 7 years for it! lol) But honestly it was well worth the wait!
I would just like to flag a few of my favorites for you... I recommend giving the whole album a listen because there really is a song for every taste, but really the whole thing is amazing! BUT here are a few of my personal favorites...
-Let the Groove Get in
-Strawberry Bubblegum
-Dress On
-Tunnel Vision
-Don't Hold the Wall
Also for a more in depth look into Justin's recording process visit JustinTimberlake.com !
P.S. J.T. has confirmed there is a Volume 2 with 10 more tracks coming out later this year... man when he comes back...he comes back BIG!
So... have you heard Justin's new material? Thoughts?
Honey I just can't get around it anymore
You make me feel like home is where you are
And baby I just can't run around it every morn'n
It's time that I believe it, home is where you are
Notes in my drawers, songs in my pockets,
Fragments of letters that you sent,
Leftover phone calls, cologne in the bath
I still have that bottle of Rosé
Staring at your photograph, tryin' to take it down
There's still a stirring in my heart
Speaking of Bethany Joy Lenz, I had brought up the fact that she covered the last song I posted, on the CW series One Tree Hill. And so I thought I'd give you a little taste of what she's all about.
I kind of feel like Joy has an old soul, she's kind of earthy and her music style is very different. I guess it's safe to claim that if you've taking a liking to the folk music that has become quite popular recently; you may really enjoy her music as well.
Joy was definitely able to utilize her singing talent on the series, because her character "Haley" became a singer on the show. So several of her songs were featured on it; songs including "Leaving Town Alive," "Maybe," "Quicksand," her cover along with musician Tyler Hilton of Ryan Adam's "When the stars go Blue," "Halo;" which was specifically written for her character's storyline, and numerous other songs.
Songs in my Pocket is a beautiful ballad, with a bit of a funky folksy twist. Joy's voice is a voice with a wide range. She grew up in musical theater so I think that may be why her sound is so original. In this song her soft and at times raspy tone is accompanied by soft bongo type drums and partnered with an almost unnoticeable guitar.
The lyrics explore the idea that there is that one person in your life who no matter where you are, they have somehow become your home. In the lyrics I chose you see her reminisce in some sense, of all the little things she's kept; trinkets that define the relationship. Things she can't let go of, because she still cares, because regardless of distance this man is still a part of her heart and to put it in a very cheesy way..."Home is where the heart is," my friends... whatever... clichés always work because they are usually true! ;)
Let's just quickly touch base on the video for Songs in my Pocket and the fact that it was totally filmed in Coney Island! I mean I wish I would have known about it, that's practically my backyard, lol! She's so carefree in this video and matched with her beautiful voice and paired with the gorgeous lyrics it creates such an inspirational feeling.
Bethany Joy is a very eccentric and eclectic artist. She's an artist in more than just one form, many know her as an actress; she played "Michelle Santos" on veteran soap opera Guiding Light, and her best known role as "Haley James Scott" on One Tree Hill. She's used this as an outlet for her music and songwriting. Joy is also a very intricate and emotional writer; she has her own blog entitled Wish You Were Here.
Joy's Blog consists of everything from music and movie suggestions, to fashion, to original poems. In fact she has been quite the inspiration for me starting my own personal blogmichelleleighwrites.
Bethany Joy also has a rotating novel she shares with friends JC Coccoli and Abigail Spencer entitled Diamond Gothic; which follows a southern belle through the dark and dangerous mysteries of the Southern woods that surround her. It is featured on hellogiggles.com.
She has also been working on turning the beloved novel [turned film] by Nicolas Sparks "The Notebook," into a musical. And has even gotten the green light from the author himself, she has also penned several original pieces for the musical.
Busy girl that Joy, not to mention she's the mom of a toddler too! Joy often jokes in interviews and once even made it her blog's header; that many people refer to her as "That girl from that show," and although she may say that One Tree Hill defined a big part of her life, her talents and her way of thinking are so much beyond that. (But seriously... miss that show!) Clearly I've been following her for a while, and I am quite the fan. I hope by showing you a little bit of insight into her world, that it opens up your eyes to how truly talented she is.
Do you ever feel like you're the only person who knows about a certain band, or the only person who is obsessed with a certain song by that particular band? I'm not naive to think that a band as spiritual and intricate as this needs an introduction. I know this band; Enation has a big following, but I often feel many of my peers and friends don't know about them. So I'd like to shed some light on one of their beautifully crafted songs.
The truth is, once again this song was put on my radar due to it being featured on, and covered by a character on the show One Tree Hill. Yes... I happen to be influenced by the music on television A LOT. And quite frankly One Tree Hill, may not have been every one's cup of tea, but I grew up watching that show. And music happened to be a huge part of it!
Bethany Joy Lenz, a friend of the band's (a.k.a she was married to one of the band mates at the point of this song's release) sang a version of Feel This, for an episode of One Tree Hill. She switched up the lyrics and changed the sound of it a bit. Lenz played small town girl turned rockstar named Haley James Scott. Because of the great fandom the show had acquired for so long, the song became very well known, but that was not the original version.
Now I happen to be a very big fan of Bethany Joy. I think she possesses a very graceful quality and she is a beyond talented singer/songwriter. Her style is very different from the norm, and I think in this day in music, that's something to strive for. I loved Joy's version so much when it appeared on One Tree Hill, but to be honest when I got wind that there was an original specifically just sung by Enation, I went searching and to my surprise fell even more in love with their version.
The song is simple. And so is its meaning. It's about love. It's about letting go of all the pain and hurt that came in your life before and moving on. It's about being moved by that love and wanting to express that feeling. This song is a feeling, it's a presence; a presence in which allows you to feel as though the band are playing the song in your very own living room. A private show just for you. The voice of Jonathan Jackson; the lead singer, is soft spoken, almost above a whisper, accompanied by slow drums, and stokes of what appears to be a keyboard synthesizer, all which gives the song an almost heavenly out of body experience, when listening to it.
I chose the lyrics above because it's my favorite part of the song. I think these lines show the other side of the song, where the lead singer sings about letting go of the past and letting the other person in your life know that they're feelings matter; no matter what those feelings are... good or bad, they are important, they are worthy, they are beautiful.
Check out Bethany Joy's Version.... And make your own decision! And if you haven't heard of Enation...well... now you have! :) Give them a listen!
[Chorus:]
Oh you think that you know me, know me
That's why I'm leaving you lonely, lonely
'Cause baby you don't know a thing about me
You don't know a thing about me
You ain't got the right to tell me
When and where to go, no right to tell me
Acting like you own me lately
Yeah baby you don't know a thing about me
You don't know a thing about me
Kelly Clarkson is one of those American Idol winners that have gone on to bigger and better things. She's made quite the name for herself and it's almost a distant vision of the past that she was once just an amateur singer begging to be noticed. In my opinion Kelly's voice ranks high up there with Christina Aguilera, Mariah Carey, Demi Lovato, Adele, and Carrie Underwood; some of the best voices of this generation.
To me Mr. Know it All, is a bit of a dig at someone who was once in her life at some point. Someone who maybe tried to change her or change her view of life. Someone who thought their views, values, and beliefs were more important then hers. We all know those people who act like they know everything, act like they're always right, it's basically their way or no way at all. And quite frankly those people suck! Haven't they ever heard of diversity? Or a simple difference in opinion?
I love this song because I feel like the majority of society can easily relate to it. For instance, on a greater scale society itself is so judgmental. It tears people down, and makes them feel like they aren't worthy. Growing up in today's society many people try to conform to "the norms," they try and be like the rest of the world just to fit in. I chose the lyrics to the chorus because I felt that is the ultimate root of the message of the song. The truth is that you yourself can only truly know what you think or how you feel, and letting someone force expectations or assumptions upon you because they think they have you all figured out, or because they think they have the right to do so, is just not something that they are worthy of being allowed to do, if all they try to do is tear you down.
The video for this song is so perfectly orchestrated. It targets the media as the self proclaimed "Mr. Know it All." As Kelly sings her vindictive words, you can see the harsh and speculated views of the public plastered on the wall behind her in the form of newspaper clippings. She sings "You don't know a thing about me..." and it's true because for the most part you don't truly know someone unless you take that time to get to know them. To let yourself understand who they truly are. Everyone has hardships, things that have happened to them that make them sometimes close themselves off. Everyone has their insecurities. But it isn't any other person's obligation nor is it their right to judge a person based on what they think they see, or think they know. Because you don't know someone's story, you only see what they allow you too.
Dear Lord, hear my plea.
Don't ever let another take her love from me.
Or I will surely die. Hmm
(Her love is) heavenly.
When her arms enfold me.
I hear a tender rhapsody.
But in reality, she doesn't even know me.
There were certain types of music that were constantly
played around the house as I grew up, and those consisted of Michael Jackson,
Elvis, and a whole lotta Motown. The
Temptations are best known for songs like My Girl, The Way You Do the
Things You Do, Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,
Papa Was a Rolling Stone, and Just My Imagination.
The Temptations were
definitely a family favorite and I remember whenever Just My Imagination would come on my brother and I would
obnoxiously sing along! ;)
The song is kind of like this heartfelt love letter from a
man to a woman, or just some guy stalking some girl…I guess it just depends on how
you take it! ;) I will take the high road and say that it is a depiction of how
a guy is fantasizing about the idea of his perfect girl and wishing she was
with him.
The song puts you in a trance, and you almost believe that
this fantasy is real. Until the chorus explores the truth that this has all
been a fragment of the man’s imagination. It’s about watching from afar, and
thinking of all the possibilities that could occur if the two were together,
lines like “soon we’ll be married and raise a family…” These visions appear all
too real for this man and it’s heartbreaking when you have to hear him admit it
isn’t.
This was when music was real, when it focused on the
musician’s voices, their ability to play instruments, and their all around
talent. Never mind this whole generation that is slowly being based upon
auto-tune and lip-synching, and rappers who can’t seem to pick up their damn
pants or stop objectifying the female body in every single one of their music
videos….(What, you know this is true!) Anyway… I think it was these guys who
were romancing the ladies long before Bruno Mars came along to claim “your amazingjust the way you are.”;)
Each man’s voice has a different tone as they take turns
having their solo moments where they can shine, but also harmonizing and
creating a beautiful sound.
I may be the only twenty-something year old, to sit and
analyze the music of The Temptations,
but hey when you grow up with it being around you, you tend to take a liking to
it. And if I may say so, if you aren’t a Motown kid, you should definitely give
it some consideration!
Kris Allen is best known for winning Season 8’s American Idol. For almost the entire
season Kris had been known as "the underdog," up against the very eccentric and
out of this world voice Adam Lambert. While, Kris measured up to be the boy next door, with
a polite heart on his sleeve, and a modest voice that would take him far.
Hisself
titled debut album, including radio singles “Live Like We’re Dying” and “TheTruth,” Kris has also been well praised for his rendition of Kanye West’s
“Heartless.”
Kris has since then, released a sophomore album
entitled; “Thank You Camellia.” Quickly, I saw such an artistic
improvement. I feel Kris had more input with this record, and was able to be
more freely creative. His first single off this album was “Vision of Love.”
However, one of my favorites is “Leave you alone.”
It’s a song that puts Kris in his element. It’s simple, just a few guitars, a
soft steady drum beat, and Kris’ clear singer/songwriter voice.
As someone who was a HUGE Kris supporter during
Idol, I really am proud to see him making his way to the future he wants for
himself.
The song strikes me as a song about a relationship.
It’s about one partner always feeling like he’s messing things up, and even
though it may not be intentionally done, somehow it always manages to happen. And
because of that he’s removing himself from the situation and leaving her alone.
In other words, he’s trying to avoid any extra problems that may end up coming
about. I find it difficult to explain it in words, because I feel that the song really just speaks for itself. The chorus is a down right cry out for help, somehow just hoping and fighting to mend this relationship that seems to be one thread short of breaking.
Often times in relationships, fights are based upon
the minuscule things, things that don’t necessarily need to be fought over. And
sometimes each partner will hold onto that argument just to prove they are
right. When in reality the bigger option should just be to forget it and move
on.
Lyrics:
I've
never been the one
for saying the right thing
And I messed up again
broke your heart
without even trying
And I blamed it on you
but there is no evidence for my case
And I know the truth
but I still can't point the blame in my face
I think Kris Allen is a really amazing musician and he's just getting started. I only wish more people would recognize how truthful and sincere he actually is. Yes Idol helped him to get there, but he shouldn't only be labeled as that guy that won that season. Because guess what he won for a reason, and that reason is, because he is nothing short of amazing!
It feels like one of those nights,
We ditch the whole scene
It feels like one of those nights,
We won't be sleeping
It feels like one of those nights,
You look like bad news,
I gotta have you,
I gotta have you.
It seems Taylor Swift has made quite the stir with her latest album entitled
RED.
Welcoming a more pop central sound, and branching slightly away from her well
known country style. Taylor
has already had several top hits, including "We are never getting back
together," and "I knew you were Trouble."
Now I think it’s safe to say I know what you’re thinking… “Who’s this chick
gonna write about breaking up with next?” Currently the boy in question is that
messy haired 1Direction kid Harry Styles. So many will probably be dissecting
everything she writes or releases post breakup. Honestly though give the girl
a break, clearly she must be doing something right, have you seen her fan base?
Yea…thought so. ;)
Currently Taylor
has been rumored to be filming a music video for what appears to be her next
single.... "22." "22" is a fun loving song that embraces
all that it is to be 22 years old. Personally it was an instant favorite when I
first heard her new album.
The song is about hanging out with the girls, staying up late, talking about
boys, etc. I guess when you think about it, even at 22, you’re still growing up. And
those topics never really go out of style. Because 22 year olds may legally be
adults, but honestly it never truly feels like it, especially when you are able
to let go and relax with your best friends.
The song has a catchy sing along chorus. Lines like “You don't know about me…
But I'll bet you want to… Everything will be alright… If we just keep dancing
like we're
22…” She even
mentions how “Tonight’s the night we forget about the deadlines.” Basically Taylor is just giving
young girls an outlet. Time to enjoy life, and have fun. It’s a definite radio
play when getting ready to go out with your friends.
“We're happy free
confused and lonely in the best way It's miserable and magical, oh, yeah… Tonight's
the night when we forget about the heartbreaks,” is definitely a messed up line
of confusion, but personally speaking, this is the girl anthem! It’s the whole point of being a girl, that roller-coaster of emotion,
where you don’t know your left from your right, but having your friends go
through it with you, somehow makes it easier. And you know it’s OK to let
yourself have that freedom from all the stress and the pressure even if it is for just one night.
Personally I don’t
read too much into these lyrics. I think they are just meant to be fun and flirty.
I’d say they mean what they say, and say what they mean. Honestly I just think Taylor had a night out
with her friends that felt like she for once was able to not have a care in the
world. She didn’t have to stress or feel insecure. She was able to just be
herself, with those that know her best. And it was probably one of those nights
that supplied a good amount of memories and fun stories for the future. The
lyrics chosen are about just that, ignoring all responsibilities and
obligations to just be free to roam around and do as your heart desires.
Here's a behind the scenes pic of the new "22" music video...so Taylor Fans, are you excited?
But hey it stars Rachel Bilson (best known for her role as Summer on Fox’s The OC) and the show is also from the creators of that same once very popular teen drama. Can you say Seth Cohen?
