Uh

I had a fabulous night. It was MK's 21st Bday. NYC...BOWERY...DOIN IT!
And after a night like tonight, having a calm connection with another individual, I often tend to go back to "Zack Morris"
Right now I'm lost as per usual. I'm not wasting or waiting; I'm just living.

Yea Yea, what the hell does this have to do with music, I know. But this is my place to be myself and what did I tell all of you in my first post? Music and My Life are one in the same. Why is that? Because I can literally place a song to every instance or emotion. And right now it's Chasing Pavements by Adele.
I'm flippin' lost and pretty much over it.
This is a very cryptic post and for that I apologize. I just needed an outlet and now that I have my blog this is it.

Up Next: 2010 Album Recaps (promise) and Weezy's interview with Rolling Stone...HILARIOUS BTDUBS

Night All

Today's Mood: Stunting Like My Daddy by Lil Wayne ft. Birdman
Current Mood: Oil and Water by Incubus (add Adele to this too)

Machine Gun Kelly=Necessity!

This dude is so dope. I wanna know more about him. I'm gonna do some research and get back to you. He is so good and his tats don't hurt his sex appeal. MGK is blonde, lanky, and his smile could make the common girl collapse. The way he rhymes is like no other. His swagger is official. Who would have thought some dude from Ohio could be that gully. Yo, every month it seems like I find a new favorite thing about the Midwest. There is something special in that water because the Midwest is on a f*n roll

Cleveland-MGK

BETTER AND BETTER

Sooo...I just read on Incubus' Facebook page that a new album is on it's way for 2011. Honestly, could this year get any better with music? I mean Incubus was the first concert I ever went to. I was 18 years old; yea I was late on the concert game, but they were the ones to open my eyes to a great show.  Now at 25 I've been to over 10 live shows and still remember Incubus as one of the greatest.  Brandon Boyd is one of those unique voices I discussed earlier. Not only is he incredibly attractive but his voice is beyond soothing. I do not necessarily hear pain in his voice but rather pure emotion and love.  He released a solo album in August 2010 called Wild Trapeze. I haven't really checked it out but it's probably intense and calming all at the same time. I'll get on that and let you know what I think.

DJ Kilmore is the man. He did a set in that concert and ripped it like no other DJ. A rock band that uses a dj is ingenious.  Make Yourself, is still one of the greatest albums in my book. The video to Drive got me to fall in love with Mr. Boyd and what a cool ass video huh.  And my fave mentioned in my other post I Miss You, came from that album as well as Pardon Me, both classics.  2001's Morning View, had one of my favorite tracks of all time, Warning. My girl MK's fave line is, "I suggest we learn to love ourselves before it's made illegal." What an awesome statement.  There is more meaning in that line than most thesis papers.  Ahhh and Aqueous Transmission is the most calming song of all time. Go get some candles, take a bath, throw that song on and just relax. Guarantee you've never have felt better.  Echo is such a pretty song and feels like the best pick up line ever.

Light Grenades is currently still stuck in my civic and cannot come out. I adore that album.  Dig and Oil and Water are by far the best songs on that album. BUT MY FAVORITE INCUBUS SONG IS...[drum roll please] SOUTHERN GIRL.  In all honesty it is up there with Breaking the Girl.  It is so mellow and beautiful and something I've always wanted to be told.  It reminds me of my ex-BF only because it was in my AIM profile when we dated.  But you see it was me saying it about him, not the other way around. My heart would flutter if someone were to say to me, "You're an exception to the rule. You're a bonafide rarity. You're all I ever wanted. Southern Girl, could you want me?" It's funny because I never felt that way about him but I loved that song so much and believed it to be the most enticing and endearing song at the time.  It's funny because someone basically said those lyrics to me, not in those words, but in his own.  And now when I think of this song I think of him.

Anyway...point being, Incubus popped my Concert Cherry.  They will always hold a very special place in my heart. Another great added to the list.

Oh so remember how I mentioned Britney had a new "song" out? I got my email update from Billboard and she made the top 100.  She actually is on top of the Top 100 at #1.  I think the song is not her best by any means. See I never said the song was not going to be hot, it clearly was and only because she's Britney 'Bitches".  Sad but oh so true. Go look up the song, it's called Hold it Against Me. Oh man.

Today's Mood: Sideways by Citizen Cope
A favorite: Shelter by Ray Lamontagne

HAD TO BE DONE

Okay so I was on HotNewHipHop.com where you can find the newest and best hip hop tracks around. To be honest it is usually only new for New Yorkers because for some reason we're the last to hear it. But at the same time it aint hot until we put it on the map...true story.

Anyway!

You gotta check out these new songs.  They were too good to keep to myself.

Beautiful People by Chris Brown produced by BENNY BENASSI...whattttttt?!?! <3 Benny

http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/en/play/s/40e9a76-166783/

My two boyfriends have come together to create magic..

Throwin Shots by Weezy and Wiz Khalifa

http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/en/play/s/d6126e5-166999/

(Saw Wiz last year with Girl Talk before he was famous and we definitely has eye relations the whole time. I was right in front. Those tats, that mouth, that voice, ah! Makes me wanna rep Steelers' colors (but I live in NY and I despise Ben Roethisberger..yuck)).

Faded by Red Cafe ft. Rick Ross is definitely gonna be hot this Winter, I feel it. That title did really well with Soul Decision in the 90s. Something about that word, it's too good.

http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/en/play/s/ee57c6b-166998/

Night N' Day by Weezy and Luda is hot. This is Southern and so gritty

http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/en/play/s/1fd06ef-168032/

There are some other good ones, even Britney's new one with Flo-Rida is on there. There is a reason I did not post that one on here. She's done. Sit down B. Spears, bow out semi-gracefully. But seriously check out the site's Top 100, there's a lot of good shit on there.

2011: Bringin' Music Back, YEA

I am so pumped about this year. The best of the best are finally coming back to where they belong, in the spotlight. No offense to J. Biebz, who I adamantly believe is one of the most talented new artists, but I am so tired of his prepubescent vocals. I miss the heart, soul and pain of yesteryear.

1st and foremost MY FAVORITE BAND IN THE WHOLE ENTIRE UNIVERSE is finally making another album. The RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS ARE BACK! No title or release date, to my knowledge, have been released. I just know that in this year I will be blasting a new RHCP album loud and proud. I have not been this excited in a very long time. This band has gone through so much since 1983; from the drugs to the variety of guitarists. A new (and young) guitarist, Josh Kinghoffer, is making his debut on the Red Hot's 10th album. At only 31 he has to prove himself to critics, but especially to die-hard fans like myself. I for one am beyond ecstatic either way. The minute the tour dates are released I am buying front row tickets. Anthony Kiedis was in fact my first celebrity crush.  More FUN FACTS about me, MY FAVORITE SONG EVER RECORDED is Breaking the Girl off of Blood Sugar Sex Magik. If you haven't heard it go to YOUTUBE ASAP! And while you're there check out TRISTAN CLOPET'S cover of it. That boy made me shed tears. Keep an eye and ear out for that talented young man, PLEASE! His EP Purple is the shit and is definitely a great addition to my online album collection. Also every time I've played Dani California on "Rock Band" I've gotten 100%, either on vocals or drums. And Porcelain off of Californication is the definition of the most beautiful lullaby I have ever heard. Not that it makes me sleepy but it speaks to my unconscious and reminds me that I am delicate and precious.

The next album I am definitely waiting for is the Foo Fighters. According to the November 25th issue of Rolling Stone, Dave Grohl, my favorite drummer next to Travis Barker, is reconnecting with his Nirvana Peeps, Butch Vig, producer, and Krist Novoselic, bassist. This will be the Fighters' 7th album and the 1st since the 2007 release of Echoes, Silence, Patience and Grace. If you're not amped about them getting a record together checkout my favorite Nirvana song Smells Like Teen Spirit. (Another Nirvana fave: Come as You Are). As for great Fighters' tracks Everlong (acoustic), Hero and Best of You. Oh and I say the acoustic version of Everlong because let's face it, it's always better acoustic. That is my opinion and I'm sticking to it. (Great example: Play both versions of Incubus' I Miss You and let me know, k thanks). And the words, ahh, "If everything could ever be this real forever. If anything could ever be this good again. The only thing I'll ever ask of you, you've gotta promise not to stop when I say when. She sang." I call Everlong my love song to music. For me music is REAL and GOOD and FOREVER. As for Best of You the line, "Were you born to resist or be abused? I swear I'll never give in, I refuse..." POWERFUL. And if you need me to explain Hero, just go rent Varsity Blues. That scene gets you so amped up it could possibly incite a riot...FACT!

The 3rd album I am anxiously awaiting is Carter IV.  I think that is a given for ummm, everyone. Lil Wayne has been around for a minute now. I remember being a senior in high school (2003, damn kid) and bumpin' Way of Life featuring Birdman and TQ (btdubs, what happened to that dude?). Weezy has clearly grown as an artist since that point. I don't care what anyone says, the Carter III was my jumpoff. DRAKE learned radio monopolization from 2008 Weezy. I still have that album in my car, going so hard. You Aint Got Nothing with Juelz Santana and Fabolous was my favorite. The lyrics, ahh a masterpiece of combination. I had the privilege of seeing Lil Wayne live in 2008 at Hot 97's Summer Jam about a week before his album's release. Okay, Pussy Monster for 15 minutes, enough said. And if right now you're like "What's Pussy Monster?" Immediately go to YOUTUBE. It is beyond raunchy but my goodness, YUMMY! Honestly, if RANSOM with him and DRAKE is any indication of what Carter IV is bringing to the table, I am so ready. I obviously purchased I am Not a Human Being, which was released while he was still in Prison. For me it was a great mixtape but definitely the calm before the storm.

My girl Adele. Now this girl has a voice on her that is so soulful that I wish I had another word to use besides soulful. Her new album entitled 21 is set to be released in February 2011. How appropriate because she is only 21. How crazy is that? For all my 21 and over people, think about what your 21st year of life was like and try and make a comparison because right now I feel ashamed. The first single off the album is called Rolling in the Deep. It is a great "WOMEN RULE" song.  The next single, out on the 24th of this month, is Someone Like You and it shivers my inner core. If that song does not immediately make you a fan, again go to YOUTUBE, which you probably already have open to use as a reference, and look up Melt My Heart to Stone. For every female out there these words have rang true at least once, "And I hear your words that I made up. You say my name like there could be an us. I best tidy up my head. I'm the only one in love..." WHAT? Oh you remember who he was ladies.

The last artist that I have to mention that brings pure excitement to my life is Lykke Li. This girl is so funky. And through her songs you can just tell that this girl knows what she wants, she is cool, calm and collected, and is a down ass chick. The instruments she chooses to use and the beats that are created are like no other and evoke a spirit that seemed to be lost inside your deepest self. Yea, it's like that. Her first single, Get Some, is pretty good. Not absolutely in love with it but I dig it. I prefer the remix with the coolest "Loser" ever, Beck.  It flows so much better. Her second single, I Follow Rivers, is really good. The sound is so speakeasy chill to me, underground and sensual. Her album Youth Novels was incredible. My boy Corey introduced me to her with the song Breaking it Up, which gives me the same vibe as I Follow Rivers. From the first time I listened to her I was infatuated with her sound and voice. There are several unique voices out right now, Adam Levine, Caleb Followill and hers are some of the best. Time Flies is my favorite song by her. To be honest it helps me cope with my own situation. Lykke Li proves her skill by remaining a dominant force on Gifted, the NASA track featuring Kanye West. If you can hold your own next to Kanye then you are no Miss Swift. Lykke Li is straight dope.

Several other artists are bringing it in 2011. For all those GaGa creepers she's coming back. Born this Way is on its way kids. I am not the biggest fan but I dig the shit out of her style. She's funky fresh. And I don't care what anyone says, I know there are many great Lady GaGa tracks but, I absolutely adore Love Game. Still gets me hyped in the club; let's be honest it would still get me hyped if I heard it in Forever 21. GaGa's last, Fame Monster opened me up to her a lot more so I think this album should be a good one. Chris Martin and his boys are back for album number 5. Violet Hills from Coldplay's 4th, Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends, is a classic example of powerful poetry set to song. But my all time fave is Sparks from the 2000 album Parachutes. That song is a definitely in the running for possible wedding songs! For most it's get the boyfriend, get engaged, then choose a wedding song. Not this chick. Although not a huge fan, please don't tell, U2 is coming back as well this year. I don't dislike them but I never got into them. Sorry. But I do love Bono for all the good he does for this world.

And yes she's back again "Bitches!" Britney is making her way back. Her guest appearance on GLEE could not have been just that. I knew there was a PR tactic behind that one.

A band who made their 2009 debut is blowing up. Cage The Elephant needs to be experienced. To me they are a less R&B and more of a gritty local band version of Kings of Leon. Same Southern Swagger but younger and rawer. Their 2009 semi-hit, Aint No Rest for the Wicked, reminds me so much of Sublime it's scary. Their new album Thank-You Happy Birthday, out now, is worth giving a listen to. My fave is Indy Kidz. Although my clothing mostly consists of Free People and Urban Outfitters, I take the mockery and put it behind me because this song is the shit! Always Something is definitely very dark and dirty. And if you are a huge fan of KOL like myself, you will love Cage's song Flow. Southern and melodious.

Speaking of R&B, Jamie Fox just released an album called Best of My Life. Cannot lie, I haven't heard any of it yet except the single,  Fall For Your Type featuring DRAKE. This song gets an A+ in my gradebook. When Jamie is on he is on. You guys remember Neyo's She Got Her Own. Jamie killed it on that. This song reminds me of it because it is an ode to those rare specimen of women that usually get neglected; independent chicks like me and my girls that work, go to school, and take care of business. I digress, point is this new track is so delicious.

2010 was great do not get me wrong but 2011 will shock and awe. Sorry 2010 but the past was meant to get passed and excel beyond. Sometime this week I'll break down my faves of 2010, probably manana. We'll see. Honestly, there is no way we cannot discuss Pink Friday, My Dark Twisted Fantasy, Congratulations and Come Around Sundown. Ahh and I have to go over my new found love for The Black Keys and their newest album Brothers. And also why their drummer parties with Ke$ha :-/

Today's Mood: Imagine by John Lennon

Favorite Song of 2010: All I Want is You by Miguel ft. J. Cole (still going hard on my playlist)

Blackout

Not going to lie to you, Saturday night started out as a good one and turned into a disaster.
Scared is not the word but rather scarred.  It was definitely a life changer.  Details are not of relevance.
Just imagine yourself completely helpless but in the end you manage to make it. It was a revitalizing and life awakening experience.

My song today describes a few of my emotions today. I feel it is a song of lost and found. "This is why I do this shit. I think they call this, umm venting...this feeling isn't new so please don't be scared of me. Please don't be scared of me."
Greatness. Do Right And Kill Everything <3

Today's Mood: Fear- DRAKE

Weekend Warrior

So I'm actually making it out tonight. Celebrating my girl Kate's bday.
Now when going out I think it is critical to have some "Pump Up Jams".
A song that always gets me going is Nicki Minaj's freestyle to She got a Dunk
"I'm a bad bitch, Ima Ima Bad Bitch" How does that song not hype you up? It gives you the ultimate confidence and feeling of self assurance before you make your way out, in this case to NYC. Alright guys I didn't forget about you. An oldie but a greatie is Lapdance by N.E.R.D. That song is so erotically good that it makes you feel like a bad ass dude. "I'm an outlaw, quick on the draw, something you never seen before..." GULLY!  For all those that love to bop to the house jump offs, Satisfaction by Benny Benassi is perfect. Satisfaction is something that we all crave especially in regards to a night on the town.  Another great house/pop combo is the Black Eyed Peas' The Time (Dirty Bit). Love that beat. It is absolutely impossible for me not to bump to that song.

Well it's Saturday so I suggest you all make a move because if this girl, nicknamed Granny by all of her associates, is making it out, you better get on that.

Today's Mood: Got to Give it Up by Marvin Gaye

Why?

I guess I'm a little late on the Blog Bandwagon.  My best friend MK suggested that I start to write about my musical findings. It only makes sense I spent most of my time with my friends ranting and raving about some new song that I discovered.  MK and I actually share the same undying love/infatuation/obsession with music.  Music is for me what a great romance is for most people. It is love at first sight and endless love all wrapped up in one. A great song can make me cry, laugh, smile and genuinely reach that level of contentment that most people search for their entire life.

This industry is where I plan on spending the rest of my life. I just graduated in December with my Masters in Sports and Entertainment Management.  And unlike most in my area of study, fame and fortune are not what drives me into this lavished lifestyle.  It is the possibility of getting someone's music heard and loved the same way that I do.  I don't want to be some music exec suit. That's not the life that I want and it is not in my path.  Music is not a gimmick and it is not a tool to make money.  Money is an end goal, especially for the struggling artist, and I absolutely respect that.  However, a true musician sings or plays, not to be heard and adored, but because they cannot live a day without a new melody generating in their head.  As someone who will one day work for one of these artists, it is my job to get them heard and adored.

I've been to many concerts. I've seen Incubus, Kings of Leon, TI, Lil Wayne, Jay Z and many others.  All artists I love and respect as truly talented and gifted individuals.  I plan on going to many more and sharing all of my experiences with you.  At concerts I often forget I'm in a crowded stadium because I go all in.  If you haven't been to a concert GO! Even go to a live show at a local club or bar.  There is nothing like a live show and the feeling that a voice, drum set or bass can give you up close and personal.

Musical Food for thought: I hope you listen to every piece of musical life advice because if there is anything I know, music is it.  I heard Sleepy Head a year and a half before I went to see Passion Pit at one of their first shows.  Last year I was blasting Quiet in My Town and Perfect Stranger by Civil Twilight and now they are background music in the Big Love promo on HBO and all over the radio.  So listen to me when I tell you to listen to a song because I know.  We may not agree on every song all the time but I can give you a 99% guarantee.

A favorite: Electric Feel MGMT
Today's Mood: Change your Mind The Killers