Swedish singer, Tove Lo has captured the attention of many, including me, with her indie rock/pop vibes. The singer/songwriter debuted her EP Truth Serum in March 2014 and has already released two singles from it: Habits and Out of Mind.
Tove Lo - Out of Mind
Tove Lo began writing poetry and short stories at a young age and went on to study at a music school. It was in 2011 that she collaborated with Max Martin and his songwriting team in writing songs. From there, her career took off.
In Fall of 2012 Tove Lo released her debut single, Love Ballad.
Tove Lo - Love Ballad
After the success of Love Ballad, Tove Lo released Out of Mind.Tove Lo's follow up single to Out of Mind and latest release isHabits, which has continued to climb the charts in both Sweden and the UK.
Tove Lo - Habits
Also check out her collaboration, Strangers, with Seven Lions, Myon, and Shane 54, featuring Tove Lo.
Seven Lions with Myon and Shane 54, featuring Tove Lo: Strangers.
As Tove Lo rises to success with her honest lyrics, catchy choruses, and alternative pop beats. There's no doubt you can expect to see more of Tove Lo this year!
MØ: By definition means maiden in Danish (According to Wikipedia). But when I think of the Danish word Mø, there is only one thing that comes to mind. And that's Denmark's own electro-pop singer Mø.
Mø first came onto the scene when she released her single, Glass, in January of 2013.
Mø: Glass
In March she released her next single Pilgrim. Since then Mø has been a hit in Denmark and now I think it's her turn to make her mark in the US. Mø is not afraid to be unique and her musical style proves that. She's fresh, independent, full of attitude, and exactly what the indie music scene needs.
While currently no full album is available for purchase, you can download her EP, Bikini Daze, off of ITunes. Featuring songs like Waste of Time and XXX 88 featuring Diplo.
Mø: Waste of Time
Mø: XXX 88
With songs like hers' and her style, Mø has just enough attitude to make it worldwide with her unique style of music! Be sure to LIKE Mø on Facebook and Twitter. Click here to buy Binini Daze on ITunes.
Mø's debut album, No Mythologies to Follow, is set to release on February 24, 2014.
If you haven't heard of Lorde by now...then let me just say, you're missing out on the next big thing. This New Zealander is only 16 years old and she has already begun to take the world by storm on both the alternative and pop charts with her amazing song, Royals.
Lorde - Royals
I first fell in love with her when I heard her song Tennis Court.
Lorde - Tennis Court
This girl has got it all. She's got the voice, infectious beats, and sassy lyrics. And since Lorde is only 16 we can only expect even more great things from her. Whether you're listening to Royals or Tennis Court, you will definitely find yourself singing Lorde for the rest of the day.
Be sure to download her EP, The Love Club, there is seriously not a song on there that I don't love (no pun intended). And from my research we can expect a full length album from her sometime in September. (September 30th, according to Wikipedia).
Follow Lorde on Twitter and Facebook to stay updated with news about her album, music, and tours.
If you're looking for something fresh this summer, the latest band Chvrches (and no that's not a typo - it's spelled with a V) are one that can't be missed this.
Chvrches are a Scottish band comprised of Iain Cook, Lauren Mayberry, and Marin Doherty. The band gained popularity in 2012 after opening for Passion Pit and will spend selected 2013 dates opening for the legendary Depeche Mode.
Check out their visually stunning music video for their single that's climbing the indie charts, Recover.
Chvrches - Recover
Their current EP, also titled Recover, has generated plenty of buzz on both blog playlists and Indie music radio stations. The EP features three songs: Recover, Now is Not the Time, and ZVVL. While also including two remixes for Recover.
Chvrches - Now is Not the Time
The cool sounds of electronic synth pop meets the 90s comeback of Chvrches are sure to be ones that stick out with music lovers this summer. Don't miss out on their EP which can be downloaded on ITunes. Become a fan of their Facebook and follow Chvrches on Twitter. And....If you happen to be one of the lucky ones seeing Depeche Mode, don't miss them on tour with them for selected dates!
Check out the entire Chvrches 2013 Tour Schedule by clicking here.
Take a female lead with a haunting and powerful voice and combine it with a producer that brings fresh style and music to the picture, and what do you get? MS MR.
It didn't take long for me to become fascinated with this New York-based duo after hearing their single, Fantasy. Consisting of female lead singer Lizzy Plapinger and producer Max Hershenow (what an awesome last name, I hope that's real), MS MR is quickly making their way onto the alternative scene.
MS MR - Fantasy
While it was their song and video for Fantasy that caught my attention, it was their latest single, Hurricane that kept it.
MS MR - Hurricane
After listening (and repeatedly watching the music video) for Hurricane, I immediately became more interested in this duo. With lyrics, such as, "Welcome to the inner working of my mind, so dark and foul I can't disguise" and an EP out titled Candy Bar Creep Show, this group may hit it off well with the alternative scene, but also have enough relatable lyrics and unique sound to become radio friendly!
Currently they have released three singles, Hurricane, Fantasy, and Bones. Their latest single Hurricane is already receiving positive feedback from the public as well as music critics and is already beginning to climb the charts in many countries. If you listen to their EP, it's no surprise why. MS MR has a unique vintage sound, with songs like Dark Doo Wop, complemented by Plapinger's beautiful (and reminiscent of Florence Welch) voice. Because of this combination, I think we can expect to see great things for MS MR in 2013.
MS MR - Dark Doo Wop
From heart aching and captivating lyrics (Hurricane) to a vintage throwback style (Dark Doo Wop), MS MR, has become one of my favorite new acts of 2013. Check out their EP Candy Bar Creep Show which is available on ITunes and other music outlets. The band also will release their debut album, Secondhand Rapture, on May 14, 2013.
Check out MS MR on Facebook as well as Twitter and click here for a list of their upcoming shows to see if they'll be playing in your area. Once again, I encourage you to download their EP, you won't be disappointed!
I've been wanting to write about this band for quite some time, however, finding any information about The Neighbourhood seems to be virtually impossible. You see, the band only just recently started revealing what they even look like. So while I can't tell you a whole lot about the band, I can tell you they are rooted from California and are easily one of my favorite bands of 2013.
Although they are a young group of guys (from what I've been able to find out) their music speaks of experiences with young love, like the catchy tune Sweater Weather, and even disdain of a personal home life, such as, Female Robbery.
The Neighbourhood - Female Robbery
But what I find most spectacular about this band is the way they've taken an alternative rock genre, added deep beats, and choruses that no one at concerts and shows will be able to resist to sing out loud. All the while adding the perfect combination of the lead singer's voice, who is finely tuned for the band's type style of music. Their influence in appearance may fall into the Hollywood retro style but their sound, I believe, is progressive enough to make them chart toppers on both the alternative, indie rock, and even pop charts.
Whether you are in the mood for something catchy, like their most recent single Sweater Weather, which is currently climbing the charts and can be heard on almost any alternative station, whether you are looking for something sultry, like the sexy tune A Little Death; The Neighbourhood has much to offer for all types of music fans.
The Neighbourhood - Sweater Weather
The Neighbourhood's EPs' I'm Sorry... and Thank You, are available to buy now. Be sure to check out their debut album I Love You which will be available on April 23, 2013 in the United States. They are currently on tour, click The Neighbourhood on tour to see if they'll be coming to a city near you!
The 90s have officially made a comeback! And being a 90s' kid I surprisingly find myself enjoying the platformed sneakers and plaid skirts, and no one pulls this off better than Charli XCX.
I don't even know what genre to put her in. Alternative? Indie? Girl pop? Electronic? Why not all of them? Because she really does seem to spread herself throughout all genres. Which is what I find makes her music so interesting and fresh, if you'll pardon The Fresh Prince of Bel Air pun.
Her newest song 'You' is off her debut album 'True Romance' which is out next month in the UK. As if that isn't enough the girl has been busy touring with artists like Coldplay and will be touring with one of my personal favorites, Marina and the Diamonds, in May.
Charli XCX - You
The English singer-songwriter covers everything in her music from lying boys to Justin Bieber. Yes, I'm serious. Check it out for yourself.
Charli XCX - Dance 4 You
And for those who love electronic pop, she is also featured on the very radio friendly and super fun song 'I love It' by Icona Pop.
Icona Pop Feat. Charli XCX - I Love It
Charli XCX's style incorporates pop culture with relatable lyrics and her melodies will have your bass working overtime. Put her in whatever genre you like, there's no way around it. Charli XCX is fresh and fun but dark and meaningful at the same time. As a successful newcomer in 2012....2013 can offer nothing but great things for Charli XCX.
Check out her website to pre-order her album. And be sure to visit her YouTube page to hear remixes, mixtapes, and covers.
If there is one thing you can say about most of 2012 and 2013 so far, it's that Electronic Dance Music has taken the world by storm. It's no longer only being played a raves...it's being played EVERYWHERE. In the midst of all this trend I came across the fantastic artist Zedd. And when I say artist I actually mean producer who you might know as Anton Zaslavaski.
One of the wonderful things about Zedd's producing is that, while I don't think I've ever heard him actually speak, he's managed to put out some of the most heart felt songs out right now; and yet his fast-paced beat driven melodies stay true to EDM form. Like one of my favorites, Clarity featuring Foxes.
As fresh as his music is you maybe surprised to find out that he has done a great deal of behind the scenes work with musicians like Lady Gaga and Skrillex. And you know that Justin Bieber song, Beauty and a Beat, that you for some reason just can't get out of your head? Yeah, he was behind that smash hit by producing the track.
Zedd has found the happy medium in the Electronic Dance Music world. Not only do you get that loaded bass that you crave from dance music but also a song with heart.
Check out Zedd's latest album, Clarity, which features even more fantastic (and more than likely hit singles) like Hourglass.
What happens when you take the heavy synth rock sounds of The Smiths and combine it with the haunting vocal ability of M83 with a dash of compelling lyrics and harmonies? You get the dark hypnotizing melodies of Bastille.
Bastille, a London based band that originally formed in 2010, has been slowly creeping onto the indie charts with songs like Overjoyed, and their more recent track, Bad Blood. They have even landed gigs at major UK festivals like Glastonbury that have garnered them well deserved attention and fans.
When listening to this band that you can't miss the obvious 80's influence, however, even if you're not an 80's fans you'll probably find yourself singing along to their amazing harmonies performed by lead singer Dan Smith. Not to mention their lyrics captivate and tell a story. As if that isn't enough the band knows how to get you involved with their art. For example, their latest album the music video, Bad Blood, features a mysterious girl possibly breaking into a man's house who is missing. The band gets fans involved by asking what your theories are surrounding the girl and missing man and then allows you to post and interact with the Bad Blood Investigation app on Facebook.
Check out the music for Bad Blood to make your own assumptions about the mystery
Bastille- Bad Blood
Bastille has already released a couple of EPs including Overjoyed and an EP for Bad Blood featuring various remixes of the song, both of which are available on ITunes. The Overjoyed EP can not be missed; from the Yeasayer remix of Overjoyed to the melodic piano in Sleepsong, it's definitely worth a download and putting on repeat.
Check out the David Lynch inspired video for Overjoyed that was inspired by Lynch's cult tv series Twin Peaks:
Bastille- Overjoyed
As for now you'll have to wait for a full length album but if you happen to be in the UK be sure to check them out on tour. Join the Bad Blood Investigation and download their tracks, available on ITunes now!
The music duo Nervo, consists of two Australian girls named Miriam Nervo and Olivia
Nervo. The girls can sing, they make remix, and most importantly, they make you want
to dance! The twins began gaining interest in music at the age of 16 when
they turned down modeling and pursued a career in music. After being accepted
into the Opera Australian Academy they started becoming interested in pop
music. Two years later they were already starting to gain exposure when a
Melbourne based music producer asked Nervo to sample his demo songs. Shortly
after they were signed with Sony/ATV Music Publishing.
Unlike most dance
music you find these days, Nervo actually writes their songs, and these songs have become popular. Singers likeAshley Tisdale and the Pussycat Dolls have had songs written by Nervo. One of the most popular
of their written songs even received a Grammy for “When Love Takes Over” sang by
David Guetta and Kelly Rowland.
By 2010 they were
playing on main stages at British music festivals and eventually signed a
recording deal with Virgin Records. Nervo’s first release “This Kind of Love”
went to number one on the pop charts and by 2011 Nervo was opening for Britney
Spears.
2012 has opened
the stage for Nervo with their hit song “Were All No One”. Which was released in March and reached the number
8 spot on Billboard’s US Hot Dance Club Songs.
We're All No One
The song that
caught my particular interest was “You’re Gonna Love Again” which is climbing the charts
in the US and the UK.
Nervo is more
than dance music. Proof of their dedication to their music is their quote on
their Facebook, “Art before chart.” This shows me that while their sound is
definitely dance-pop, the lyrics and messages of there songs are more important
than just about a typical “dance” song. So far, their music is about a positive
message. For example in “You’re Gonna Love Again”:
“We gotta try even if it’s hard, try baby, understand.
To find a rainbow in every storm, you gotta believe.
Don’t ever doubt that you don’t below now
Cause it’s starting with you, It’s starting with me”
Through a combination of positive lyrics, fast beats, and an
influence of Dub; there’s no doubt Nervo has what it takes to be the next big
thing. Whether you just want to dance or you just need a pick-me-up, Nervo can and will find a place on your IPod.
Right now a few of their songs are available to
purchase online at places like ITunes. Check them out! An album from Nervo should be
forthcoming!
"I was born with music inside me. Music was one of my parts. Like my ribs, my kidneys, my liver, my heart. Like my blood. It was a force already within me when I arrived on the scene. It was a necessity for me-like food or water."
-Ray Charles
Of Monsters and Men are a 6-piece indie/folk band from Iceland who burst onto the scene in 2010 when they were winners of Músíktilraunir, an annual band competition in Iceland. You've probably heard their song Little Talks playing on not just alternative radio stations, but even pop/top 40 radio. They have become a huge success in America with Little Talks and I see nothing but a bright future for Of Monsters and Men.
Of Monsters and Men formed in 2009 when Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir began looking to add musicians to her music project, Songbird. Having found the perfect members to add to the group in 2010 Of Monsters and Men entered into the music competition as a quartet. The foursome added two more members after Músíktilraunir. After their success with the music competition they group began performing at Iceland music festival such as Iceland Airwaves in 2010.
Little Talks
Jump forward a year to 2011, Of Monsters and Men started making their way in America. Signing with Record Records in February of 2011, Within months Of Monsters and Men released Little Talks in August. Little Talks propelled them to success and in April Of Monsters and Men released their first album, My Head is an Animal. Since April the album has already seen a great deal of success, it is currently number 4 on the alternative album chart.
Slow and Steady
However, Little Talks is but a taste of what this band is capable. Listening to My Head is an Animal you immediately can hear that this band is unique. From their folk inspired sound to their duet style [Nanna sings lead as well as Ragnar "Raggi" Pórhallsson]. With all the success of other folk-styled bands it's safe to say that Nanna keeps Of Monsters and Men unique. Nanna leads you into something slightly different with her voice, maybe it's her accent. Whatever it is, her keeps you listening and coming back for more. And like any good folk band, the lyrics are deep with stories behind them like Slow and Steady and Love Love Love.
Whether you love indie, folk, or pop, their sound is breathe of fresh air. Of Monsters and Men are easily going to be one of 2012's biggest bands.
My Head is an Animal by Of Monsters and Men is in stores now.
From the outside it would appear that singer/songwriter Ed Sheeran doesn't have much to say. He almost seems like a humble man of just a few words. But turn on his music, you can hear that is not the case. He's saying a lot and he's singing it fast!
Ed Sheeran began recording music in 2005 in England. Finding a passion for music, in 2008 he moved to London to begin chasing the dream of playing music. Sheeran didn't set out to play a couple of gigs and expect to become instantly a rockstar, no, he played as many shows as he could. Constantly playing music and doing what it took to get his name out there. In 2009 alone, Sheeran played 312 gigs. It all paid off by 2011 when he was signed to Asylum/Atlantic Records.
The track The A Team broke onto the scene in 2011 and became an instant hit on the UK charts. After that, it was nothing but success for Sheeran
The A Team
By 2012 Sheeran had reached massive success with his music and was awarded for all his work that year at the Brit Awards. He won 2 Brit Awards for Best British Solo Artist and British Breakthrough of the Year.
Perhaps one of the most exciting moments of Sheeran's career (thus far) was when Rupert Grint (actor known for roles such as Ron Weasley in Harry Potter) appeared in his music video for Lego House; which is a must-see music video! Sheeran already had a fan base but featuring Grint allowed Sheeran to reach out to a whole different fan base.
Lego House
With music videos like Lego House and songs such The A Team, it's no surprise that Ed Sheeran has gained a huge and dedicated following. Now it seems the next big step for Sheeran is for his music to become transatlantic and so far, it seems to be going well!
Sheeran released his album + (yes, it's just a plus sign) on June 12, 2012 in the United States and is currently number 5 on the Billboard Charts. Pretty good for a debut album! The A Team has already become a hit on the radio and his song Give Me Love is also breaking onto the scene. Sheeran a young, British dude from Britsol has already acheived great success and not just in his home country of England.
Take a listen to his album + for slow relaxing ballads and fast-paced and fast-sung songs. + is available for purchase on ITunes and other music outlets.
Electric Guest, what a refreshing band to step onto the seen this year. I almost feel like rock music needed a group of guys like this. What's so great about this group? Everything, on their album no song is the same, and that's what I love about them. Each song has it's own style and each song seems to focus on different situations. And not be missed is lead singer, Asa Taccone's amazing voice to top off the excellence of the album.
Based out of LA, Electric Guest, started out with Asa Taccone and Matthew Compton. In addition the band has two brothers, Todd and Troy Dahlhoff, who are more like "extras" that usually tour with Electric Guest. For their debut album the band worked with Danger Mouse as their producer for Mondo, who is one of the top producers in music. Between the uniqueness of their sound and help from Danger Mouse, it doesn't come as a surprise that this band is starting to take off.
The band has already released two songs off their album: American Daydream (above video) and This Head I Hold. Other songs such as, Under the Gun or Waves, bring a unique style to the table for their album. Two songs of Mondo that I urge you to check out!
Under the Gun
Electric Guest captivates attention with their music in several different ways. No two song seems to even sound the same, which in an era of carbon copy music, is refreshing.
Their songs are catchy but also you'll see yourself relating to the lyrics. Bands that can get your attention through their style of music while also bringing you to a point where you can relate to what their singing about is rare. You can tell the making of Mondo was not some group of guys who just decided to play music for the hell of it. In my opinion, I feel a vast amount dedication involved in every song. Sure, so it might have taken them only a few minutes to write a song, I have no idea, but something about this band shows me that Electric Guest has deep dedication to their music. I will always respect that.
Since this is the first US album release, they'll only go farther if they continue to show dedication.
All in all, Electric Guest is a rock band full of young, good-looking guys, who actually know how to play music. Not just any old music, but music that makes you think and music that you can fall in love with. When I say falling in love with, I mean, you'll be putting this album on repeat on your Ipod. They have great potential and the beauty of it is, they're not going to need to change a single thing about themselves. Their music speaks for itself.
I first fell in love with Yuna last year after hearing a song by her called Decorate. Now Yuna has officially released her self-titled album and it's a must have. With songs like Lullabies and Planes you'll be humming alone to the ultimate chill out album. Also, she does a killer cover of Come As You Are by Nirvana that isn't featured on the album, but is brilliant.
Yuna- Come As You Are
Yuna started out on Myspace when she sang her songs in both English and her native language, Malay. She began singing and writing her own songs at the age of 14 and by 19 was playing guitar and performing.
She has come along way since her 2006 Myspace days. In 2011 she signed with FADER Label in the US. Now she will be performing at Lollaplooza and was even nominated for an MTV Iggy for "Best New Bands in the World." If I had to choose someone in 2012 that will capture the hearts of indie souls I would say it'd be Yuna. Her gentle rhythms and tender lyrics are captivating in every way.
Her self-titled album is available now. Be sure to check out other songs of her that are not featured on the album such as Fears and Frustrations and Deeper Conversation.
Yuna- Lullabies
Whether you're needing someone to sing you to sleep or in a coffee shop sound mood. You must let Yuna sing you her lullabies.
The British beauty queen is back and better than ever with her album: Electra Heart. The UK Queen has been on the scene for a while and this album comes after the success of her album Family Jewel's. However, you will notice this album has taken a more dramatic sound and a different direction than her previous work.
While you might think that this new album is just another pop album from a beautiful girl. Think twice, because this new sound has been no accident! Marina states her guise of the album, "epitomizes and embodies the lies, illusions and death of American ideologies involved in the corruption of self...Electra Heart is the antithesis of everything that I stand for. And the point of introducing her and building a whole concept around her is that she stands for the corrupt side of American ideology and basically that's the corruption of yourself. My worst fear -- that's anyone's worst fear -- is that losing myself and becoming a vacuous person. And that happens a lot when you're very ambitious."
With a new pop style and a retro look, it is no surprise that this album, Electra Heart, is already one of the top hits in the UK. And I have a feeling that this little diamond will be crossing over to the US charts as well. Her hit song, Primadonna, is not only catchy and sassy but is the perfect example of her new persona and concept.
Marina and the Diamonds- Primadonna
This is just one of the many videos Marina has released that can be found on her YouTube page to accompany her latest album. This young lady's new direction, while making quite the statement, is sure to jetset her right in the hearts of all primadonna girls. Her album, Electra Heart, is currently out in the UK and an US release date is forthcoming.
If you who haven't heard of Lana Del Rey...you may have been living under a rock these past couple of months. The break out star has already stolen many hearts with her smooth voice and compelling lyrics. What makes this star so different right now is not necessarily her voice but her creativity and humbleness.
Clearly a shy performer, the singer received a lot of backlash after performing at SNL, but this hasn't stopped the singer from gaining popularity with her songs Video Games, Born to Die, and her latest single Blue Jeans.
The American born 25 year old broke out onto the scene in late 2011 with her song video games. Originally not meant to be her first single, however, her home-made and self directed video found it's way onto stations such as MTV and VH1.
Her career came full circle recently at the 2012 Brit Awards where she won International Breakthrough Artist.
She is certainly someone to keep an eye on in the coming year. Her debut album, Born to Die, is currently available in stores and digital download. So get your heart shaped sunglasses out and jump in a convertible because Lana Del Rey will have you singing for many years to come.
Today I will talking about two of my absolute favorites from over the pond. Ellie Goulding and Katy B. We'll start out with Ms. Goulding.
Now, you may or may not have heard of her. She is starting to make her mark in America while she has already been HUGELY successful in England and overseas. For example, she was asked to sing at The Royal Wedding. That tells you how much of a following she has in England. Now as for here in America, she is slowly starting to gain a following, for example, the more I watch MTV hits and channels such as that.... The more I see her---which tells me she probably is going to be the next big thing. This beautiful young lady has an album out right now called Lights; which is truly wonderful. Every song is different in it's own way. I'm going to show you two different videos of her so you can see just how talented this lovely Brit is.
The first is called "Lights" this electronic song will have you not only dancing but will also be stuck in your head all day. This is probably one of my favorite songs off the album...and if you are into dubstep. There is also a dubstep version of it (which you can find via youtube or buy off Itunes) that is..well off the chain. Really no other way of putting it.
"Starry Eyed" is a catchy song but what I really love about this song is the lyrics. The fact that everyone has something in them that makes them special. Trust me, it won't be long before you'll be hearing this on the radio. :)
My next beautiful Brit is Katy B. Now she hasn't exactly made her way over to America yet but I really love her music and I think she has the potential to become very successful over here. And I hope she does! Her lyrics are amazing and honest while the music is danceable (I know that's not a word---but that's what it is) and fun. Below are two of my favorites by her.
This song is called "Broken Record" and is my favorite song off the album. Why you ask? Because whether male or female---everyone can relate to liking someone so much that you dream about them and you think about them like a......broken record.
Now this is "Easy Please Me" and I honestly just think this is a fun song, Especially if you are a girl. A girl who is independent. But while it is also catchy; the lyrics are once again fantastic.
I could go on and on about these two ladies and why they're so great. But really, as I've said before, I like to let the music speak for itself. I am merely just putting it out there for you to listen to. Other Beautiful Brits you may want to check out: Florence and the Machine, (which I'm sure you already know of) Kimbra, \and Kate Nash. Merely just a few.
I have two great musicians that I would like for you to hear about today, one you already know....so let's get to the one you may not know.
Now, you may or may not know who Donald Glover is...
Well...let's see it's more like what isn't he? He's a stand up comedian, actor on the show Community, and now he is a rapper. Now...I'm not usually a rap fan. But Donald Glover---who goes by the name Childish Gambino when rapping is an AMAZING rapper. I, now this is my personal opinion, think if he plays his cards right he could really be the next Drake. I mean, Drake got his start on TV as well?
What started out as mixtapes and basically just "goofing up" soon became an actual passion for him. And while releasing bootlegs to the public it wasn't long before he was signed to Glassnote Records.
He currently just released his album Camp which of course is available on ITunes and other music sites. It might be a little bit harder to find in stores. The song I'm going to share with you is actually not on his new album but is the song that I heard and made me think, "This guy has potential and this guy has skill."
Check out Freaks and Geeks by Childish Gambino:
Now the next artist. You know...and you either love her or you hate her. But it's.....Rihanna. Let me explain why I decided to talk about her. First, I used to loathe Rihanna. I thought she was whiny and just another "artist" made by Jay-Z. But...I took the time to listen to her newest album entitled Talk That Talk...
And. well...I've been eating my words. This album is absolutely wonderful....and if I'm honest. Here lately all of Rihanna's stuff has been pretty great. Not only did she record a song with Coldplay..(Called Princess of China) which is great! I highly recommend you YouTube it....but I really feel like she has been trying to expand musically. It seems each album she puts out has a diffierent style. Not only do I respect it when artist do that but I love it. It means, that they are not afraid to take a chance, which means...maybe she isn't just Jay-Z's little protege.
The song I'm going to share with you is called Drunk on Love. Which features a sample of The XX's song Intro (I was already obsessed with that song and The XX anyways). So between her sampling The XX and her doing that song with Coldplay. I have to say...I've really turned to love her new stuff. Being completely honest as well...I've listened to the new album and it is great.
Here is the song Drunk on Love...I hope you guys love it as much as I do!
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. And if anyone who isn't American is reading this...well then I hope you just had a great week.
This blog will be about my favorite (favorite is an understatement) The Killers. Since I'm doing a music blog. It is only fair that I get to share with you fine people my favorite band. I won't ramble on about why I love them and what not...I just want to show you some of my favorite Killers songs and hopefully if you are not a Killers fan. You'll give it a try. (And then later I'm gonna show off my memorabilia hehehe)
Okay....so everyone knows Mr. Brightside it came out in 2005 and When You Were Young which came out in 2006. Those are probably the two hits that The Killers are known for. But they have so many other songs that I love that I'd like to share with.
First is called Shawdowplay.
This is actually a remake of a Joy Division song and The Killers did it for a movie called Control. (About Joy Division and their lead singer--hence the music video).
The next I want to share with you is one song that is a personal favorite mine and it's called Sweet Talk.
This song is off the album Sawdust and is rarely played live but it is honestly one of my favorites.
And the last one I'm going to share with you and this is only because this song has gotten me through so much and to this day; I still listen to this song to help me get through times when I feel like I can't win. And it is called Everything Will Be Alright.
The Killers currently have 4 different CDs out and are working on their 5th. Hot Fuss (2004) Sam's Town (2006) Sawdust (2007) Day & Age (2008)
And just to kind of persuade you on how awesome The Killers are...Every year they release a Christmas song, you can buy it off ITunes for like .99 cents and ALL profits go to the RED campaign. This is the first one they did and one of my favorites. A Great Big Sled.
So now that I've shown you some of their songs, which I really hope you'll give a chance and listen to. I have to and, I'm sorry, but show you my memorabilia I've collected over the years. Like I said...I'm not gonna go on this huge back story of why I love them or how they helped me and blah blah blah. Because I think the music should speak for itself. BUT I do want to show you guys my dedication to this band
These are flowers that I caught at a secret gig in Athen's, GA. I like to think Brandon threw them to me on purpose. Hehe. Bless them....they're very old and fragile now.
I got the opportunity of meeting the band at The Fox Theater in Atlanta backstage and they signed my CD. (Yes, I brought that CD-I came prepared)
My poster that I also got signed.
I've kept my little "Meet and Greet" pass they gave me. 2007!! It seems like yesterday.
The setlists that I've acquired over the years.
My signed setlist that someone gave me as a gift. :)
Okay now that I'm done showing that off. I really do hope that you take a listen to their music. And I sincerely hope that if you are not a Killers fan--that I've persuaded you in someway to give their music that are not their "hits" a try. If not, no biggie, because I know not everyone has the same taste in music. This blog isn't about me trying to get you to "LIKE" my music. It's just me showing you artists that I think are great and artists that I believe have potential.
Until next time. Have a wonderful day/evening/night. Whatever it is while you've been reading this. :)
