I make lists.
I read books.
I like clothes, food, music, my fur babies, travel, and loads of other stuff too.
I may write about any or all of these things.
I mention here that I'm not a regular tv watcher. I haven't watched a full series since...Dexter, I think. Oh, and the husband and I watch Ink Master. I just don't commit myself to tv these days. But, that's mostly for another day, another post.
One show that I do watch is The Voice. Not the version most of you watch (although I'd love that because I love myself some Gwen.) The Voice has its own version in Australia. Similar to its American counterpart, the coaches have varied throughout the seasons. In the past, Australia has had Keith Urban, Ricky Martin, Kylie Minogue, Will I. Am, Joel Madden (and then Joel was joined by his brother Benji), Jessie J, and a few others maybe.
This year's Australian coaches are:
Seal - he's been here before, won a couple of times, took a couple of seasons break, and now he's back
Delta Goodrem - she is a beloved and accomplished Australian singer, songwriter, and musician, and she's coached most of the seasons
Kelly Rowland - new to the Voice family - Houston, Texas in da hizz-ouse
Boy George - new to the Australian Voice, but he's coached a couple of years for the UK version
So far, all that I've told you is what is already in the media. No secrets or spoilers shared. The above picture is from their facebook page.
Most everything else is super secretive. As in I'm not allowed to tell you about much of what happened. They were super strict about phones. No phones. No cameras. But, here's what I can tell you: I went to a studio taping of "The Blinds" on Tuesday. I watch the show, I was curious, I had some free time, and I've never been to a television taping. I thought "hey! something new! could be fun!" I had so much fun Tuesday, I went for Wednesday's taping too. The tickets were free, and there were some open spots for the "day" taping this week, which is when I went. The night tapings had filled already.
The show in itself is supportive and encouraging, and that's one of the reasons I watch it. Everyone involved was professional and lovely. I met some nice people sitting around me. I enjoyed seeing family and friends' reactions. There were some moments that were genuinely entertaining with laughter and fun...other moments that were truly touching with goosebumps and real tears. That's not all just put on for tv. I cried during one contestant's segment, and laughed huge belly laughs today during another. Sure, there were some taped/staged moments too. The coaches dancing and the crowd applauding. A few staged moments of the coaches acting surprised or excited and the crowd responding with them.
While we're talking about the coaches, they are doing a job, but they do interact with the audience too. They can't do it much, or they'd be there all day & night...but I noticed a few children and people with special needs get some hugs and autographs from coaches, and I think that's great. One kid brought a stuffed animal that was a seal, and a crew member made sure that Seal signed it, waved to the kid, gave him some "thumbs ups", and made the kid's day.
The contestants ... well, like these shows are ... some had potential, some of their nerves got the best of them, and some were AMAZING. But, all seemed really humble.
All in all, I enjoyed this experience and would most likely do it again. Oh, and I've renewed my love for Boy George.
Have you ever been to a television show recording? Tell me about it.
In case you didn't notice, we (Jana and Erin) skipped our playlist in December. Let's remind you that we are taking a trip through the decades of our musical faves from the '50s, the '60s, the '70s...and that brings us to...THE 80s!!! Everyone's favorite! And since the 80s is massive, we've decided to split it in three: one for the men, one for the women, one for the groups. There might even be a hairbands one in there but we're not sure yet.
Anyway, like most people, we love the music of the '80s. I (Jana) spent my childhood in the 80s (I turned 13 in 1990) and Erin entered her teen years during this decade. Beyond that, the 1980s had Reagan, Thatcher, and Gorbachev. Charles and Diana got married. The Berlin Wall came down and AIDS was on the rise. The 80s also had Saturday morning cartoons, neon (so much neon), THE MOTHERFUCKING FRAGGLES, big hair, and the Brat Pack. It also saw the birth of MTV (you know, back when it played music) which helped launch or sustain the career of so many artists including these guys:
Rick Springfield, "Jessie's Girl". Quite possibly one of the best songs ever written. Okay, in my (Erin's) opinion, at least. Jana's take: "Love Somebody" is a better song and also, Rick Springfield is my favorite Australian.
Billy Idol, "Rebel Yell". Yes, the obvious choice because it's just so, so good. Jana's take: I have yet to hear a Billy Idol song and NOT had it stuck in my head for days afterwards.
David Lee Roth, "Just Like Paradise" because when he broke from Van Halen, I (Erin) refused to pick sides. Jana's take: I didn't give a shit when that happened but this is a great song.
Bobby Brown, "My Prerogative". This was before drugs, alcohol, and arrests. He was awesome. Jana's take: Sadly, who could've predicted he'd be the last one from that family still standing.
LL Cool J, "I'm Bad". This lady (Erin) certainly does love cool James. "I'm Bad" is probably the first rap song I (Erin) knew word for word. Jana's take: When I was pregnant with The Child, we called her LL (for little Lynch). We're so clever. Also, did you notice LL never dies in any movie he's in? WHY IS THAT?
Elton John, "I'm Still Standing". A new personal anthem for me (Jana). Also a fun song. And there's a great cover of it in the movie Sing.
Eric Carmen, "Make Me Lose Control". There are no words to accurately convey how I feel about this song. I simply love it.
John Mellencamp, "Authority Song". The struggle was real picking a JM song. Too many good options to choose from but I (Jana) settled on this one since I crank it to 11 when I listen to it. Erin opted for R.O.C.K in the U.S.A. which, incidentally, was my second choice.
Steve Winwood, "Back in the High Life". Another one I (Jana) find beautiful and absolutely love.
Phil Collins, "Don't Lose My Number". Confession: I (Jana) LOVE PHIL COLLINS. Almost as much as I love Billy Joel. Actually considered flying to Ireland to see him in concert in June #notajoke
Erin's take: I do not love Phil Collins, but that's okay, this is a collaboration, and I'm happy for Jana to have her love for Phil.
We could probably list all the reason we love all the men and songs on this list (full playlist below) but instead, we'll just do our In Memoriam and get to the music.
All of these men redefined how we think of a man, all of these men (well, three of four) empowered women, and all of them were influential, phenomenal musicians whose impact will be felt for decades to come. That, and their music is just fucking timeless. There's no editorial on these as the music speaks for itself.
RIP.
George Michael, "Father Figure".
Erin: I freaking love this man's voice, and I am glad Jana picked a song because I'm not sure I could narrow it down to just one. If you too are a George fan, in case you missed this, I'm going to share this link where Rolling Stone perfectly gives you George Michael: 20 Essential Songs.
David Bowie, "Modern Love"
Michael Jackson, "Man in the Mirror"
Prince, "Let's Go Crazy". Jana: I could not find a decent video or a link to accompany this song which is a fucking shame. This song is incredible and showcases everything Prince was capable of. Erin: So, I "cheated" and included Prince's SuperBowl performance because it is the best one ever...EVER...and he opens with Let's Go Crazy.
And here's the whole playlist:
What are some of your favorite 80s songs performed by men?
Why is it, when Alyssa gave a list of her "Back to Blogging" prompts, that the "hold my beer" moment is the one that I knew, without a doubt, that I could write? Is it because I've had a lot of them? Probably. Is it because I've drank too much? Probably. Is it because I've had a lot of fun during some drunken debauchery? Probably that too.
Here's a few things I love: music, rock music, live music, and yes, beer. I've been fortunate enough to see many of my favorite bands in concert, and believe me, there's been a lot of beer consumed at those concerts.
Stone Temple Pilots is one of those bands that I've seen at multiple gigs in different venues and at different times of their tenure. The songs are fantastic, the band is always tight, the crowds are always good, and Scott Weiland was always one of the best of all front men. I feel like I saw him at various stages of his drug addiction, but he still was always an incredible performer.
June 8, 2000 - STP returned to Houston, and a group of friends and I went. I'd seen them before, and I loved the venue selected for this show. It was a little smaller than where I'd previously seen them (holds approximately 2500). The venue for this show was all general admission with a floor section and a back section that had an incline or rise to it.
by artist Jermaine Rogers
For the opening band (and I don't remember who opened), I sat in the back section on the rise and many beers were consumed. This was a common occurrence for my group of friends, depending on the opening act.
We got to talking to this dad and his 13 year old son sitting next to us. It was the son's first concert ever, and he wasso excited to see Stone Temple Pilots.
(I swear my "hold my beer" moment is coming..........)
Opening band ended. More beer was consumed. Lights go down. Concert starts. Everyone stands and is getting into the show. The kid next to us is loving it. He's so pumped.
Again, I lovvvvvvve live music. I feel the adrenaline. I absorb the environment. I sing. I dance. I throw my arms in the air. I sweat. I shake. I love it. And, I like to be close and in the midst of it all.
At the time of this show, I was 26 years old (almost 27) and in my prime rock show music attending, concert going mode. I was not going to stay in the back. The band was pulling me forward. If you are a fan of STP, check out this setlist that was played that night.
"Wicked Garden" kicked in, one of my favorites. So, what did I do? I said "hold my beer" and grabbed the hand of that 13 year old kid, and yelled "c'mon!" (getting a nod of approval from his dad.)
I dragged that kid up into the middle of the mosh pit, and I just kept dragging. He was jumping around, singing, going crazy, and his eyes were as wide as saucers with awe and excitement. Eventually, I got us all the way up to the front of the stage, and he even slapped hands with Scott Weiland. We remained there at the front barricade for the rest of the concert.
Not only was my concert experience amazing, but I'm pretty sure I gave this kid a story to tell about his "first concert ever". At least, I hope so. All because I put down my beer.
Now, if only Scott Weiland could've put down the drugs...........
Last Thursday of the month means it's time for another playlist with Jana and Erin - a playlist with a twist. Not "The" Twist because that song was released in the '60s, so that doesn't make the cut. Yet.
The 1950s. A time for poodle skirts, sock hops, and soda fountains. Also McCarthyism, the Cold War, and Jim Crow but that's the part that sucked so we're not going to talk about that today. Nope. Instead, we're going to talk about one of the fun parts of the 1950s--the music!
I (Jana) love 50s music. It melts my dark, hard rock loving heart. It's fun and catchy and not at all like anything we have now. When I need a pick-me-up, I'll put on one of my 50s Spotify playlists. It makes me happy. Probably has to do with childhood memories of listening to the music at bar mitzvahs or with my grandparents. But who knows? I just like it. #noshame Hope you guys like some of the songs, too!
This is also the beginning of our through the decades playlist series (think of this as the Time Life version of our playlist series. Anyone else remember the Time Life CD collections? No? Just me?) and thanks to Erin for indulging me in this decade first.
Songs from "The Day the Music Died" artists: Sadly, all three of the following artists died in a plane crash in Iowa in February 1959.
Come On, Let's Go by Ritchie Valens (1958): This video clip is fun, even if the person who uploaded it misspelled the artist's name.
Chantilly Lace by The Big Bopper (1958): "Hellllooooo baaaaaby!"
Not Fade Away by Buddy Holly (1957): Jana is a big fan of this bespectacled musician's songs. He appears in our playlists from time to time.
Songs from piano men:
Tutti Frutti by Little Richard (1955):
Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On by Jerry Lee Lewis (1957): Let's forget about that whole marrying his teenage cousin part of the story.
Songs by brothers:
Shout by The Isley Brothers (1959): The dance scene in Animal House with John Belushi in a toga is one of those iconic cinematic scenes where the perfect song was picked for a movie. But, that's not this video clip because that was Otis Day and the Knights covering The Isley Brothers. Bye Bye Love by The Everly Brothers (1957): fun fact~the daughter of one of these guys is named Erin Everly and that's who inspired Axl Rose to write the lyrics for Sweet Child of Mine. Songs that make you want to dance (besides the ones already mentioned):
Shake, Rattle, and Roll by Bill Haley and the Comets (1954):
At the Hop by Danny & the Juniors (1957):
Johnny B. Goode by Chuck Berry: Since we forgot about Jerry Lee Lewis marrying his cousin, let's forget that Chuck Berry allegedly had cameras installed in the women's toilets filming them while using the restroom at a restaurant he owned...
Love Me Tender by Elvis Presley (1956): For that slow dance...
Songs that were introduced to me (Erin) by my grandfather:
Your Cheatin' Heart by Hank Williams (1953):
It's Only Make Believe by Conway Twitty (1958): Sometime, in the '70s, my (Erin's) grandparents and extended family went to a Conway Twitty show, and Dolly Parton was the opening act. My uncle bought me nachos, and I was sitting on his lap eating them. Then, I puked all over his boots while Conway Twitty was playing. Awww sweet memories.
Folsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cash (1955): Johnny sings "I shot a man in Reno just to watch him die." Johnny was gansta before gangsta rappers.
But, what's great, is songs like these have lasted SIXTY years. Think about that. What songs recorded this decade do you think will last as long as these? What artists will the bloggers of 2076 be sharing?
Last Thursday of the month means it's time for another playlist with Jana and Erin - a playlist with a twist. Often, we try not to choose themes that you've seen time and time again. This month we've decided to highlight significant songs from concerts we've attended AND that concert was monumental to us for one reason or another.
JANA: 1. "The Right Stuff" by NKOTB. New Kids and Tiffany was the first concert I ever went to. With my parents, sister, best friend at the time and we saw them at Westbury Music Fair. I was in 4th or 5th grade (roughly the same age as my daughter, incidentally, who just went to her first concert this past summer. We took her to see Weezer. So there's that). And my love of live music begins.
ERIN: 2. "You Give Love a Bad Name" by Bon Jovi. I know. It comes as no surprise that Bon Jovi makes an appearance on this list. It was my first concert that I attended. My mother took three 8th grade girls and one 7th grader to the Bon Jovi "Slippery When Wet" tour with Cinderella opening (who became another live favorite). My love of Bon Jovi was cemented.
JANA: 3. "Big Talk" by Warrant. NKOTB was the first concert I ever attended; Warrant and Poison at Nassau Coliseum was the first concert I attended sans parents. Three of my friends and I went during the Cherry Pie tour and looking back, there were quite a lot of things that happened at that concert I didn't quite understand. Now I do. Warrant was DIRTY.
ERIN: 4. "King of Rock" by Run DMC - The summer after 8th grade, I went to visit my grandparents in rural East Texas. A concert was coming to the Oil Palace in Tyler, Texas ... a concert like this smaller Texas town had never seen - Run DMC with others (DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, Public Enemy, and more). My aunt and uncle took me, they sat in the back while I bounced and danced in the crowd. My uncle claimed that my blond ponytail was easy to spot. I loved the blend of sounds (and still do) that Run DMC brings, and King of Rock is especially foreshadowing since they are now members of the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame.
JANA: 5. "Subdivisions" by Rush. This is my absolute favorite Rush song of all time. We might have used it in a post before but #idontcare. I saw Rush for the first time in 1991ish (mostly because Mr. Big was the opening act. Yes, I was that person but in my defense, I was 14) and despite being there for the opening act, I walked away a Rush fan. This was also the gateway concert for my love affair with outdoor concerts. Thank you, Jones Beach.
ERIN: 6. "Crackerman" by Stone Temple Pilots. My college roommate, Katy, dated a beautiful boy named Gregorio. We piled into my white Honda Civic and drove from our university town to Houston for my first "live" experience with Stone Temple Pilots (1995ish). It was an incredible show, even with Scott Weiland completely off his face. Since his death from a deadly cocktail of drugs, this first STP is particularly poignant to me in my memories.
JANA: 7. "Tainted Angel" by Southgang. I saw these guys on New Year's Eve. In a bar. In Atlanta. When I was 14 (14 was a big year, evidently). It was pretty fucking cool.(Also, I might or might not have thrown this in because of Erin's love for Butch Walker. I'll let you decide).
JANA: 9. "Ain't Going Down Till the Sun Comes Up" by Garth Brooks. I bought my husband, then-boyfriend, tickets to see Garth Brooks in Philly for his 20th birthday. Decidedly not a country music fan, I had a lot of trepidation going to the show. Turns out, I can be wrong. This still reigns as one of the best concerts I've ever attended. The man played for 3 hours WITH NO BREAK. It was incredible. Also at that concert, the guy selling "popcorn, peanuts, crack cocaine". (Note from Erin: While watching this video as I was putting together this post, I got goosebumps. His energy is infectious. Garth is the bomb. No shame.)
ERIN: 10. "Between Angels and Insects" by Papa Roach. Another time that I told a friend to "just trust me" and go to a show with me was to see Papa Roach. Their first full album was out, and "Last Resort" was a single getting play. I had the album (well, cd, but I still call them albums), and I wanted to see them live. I convinced my friend, Shawn, to go with me because he likes rock shows. When we left the show, we looked like someone had hosed us down with a garden hose. We were soaked with sweat. I am not sure I've ever lost that many calories in one show. I picked this song because it was the one that I remember most for the crowd losing.their.shit when it played.
JANA: 11. "Captain Jack" by Billy Joel. Returning the favor, the husband bought me tickets to see Billy Joel and Elton John. I had previously seen Billy during college but attending this concert was the fulfillment of a decade long dream. Dueling pianos at their finest.
ERIN: 12. "Here Is Gone" by the Goo Goo Dolls. My two frontmen loves are Jon Bon Jovi and Johnny Rzeznik. In 2003, they made this girl's dream come true by touring together. And, the Goo Goo Dolls were touring to support my favorite album of theirs, Gutterflower.
JANA: 13. "Jesus of Suburbia" by Green Day. Perhaps the greatest song from American Idiot, and perhaps one of the most stellar shows I've attended. By the time we got to their concert at the Liacouras Center, we'd seen Green Day 3 times and this concert was about as close to perfection as you can get.
ERIN: 14. I couldn't decide what song/band I wanted to list next, and "Gone Away" by The Offspring came on, which instantly took me to a memory that I love, so there you have it. One of my best gal pals moved to Italy. I went to visit. We went to see The Offspring in Milan. It was an unforgettable experience to go to a concert surrounded by Italians all singing along in English with this SoCal pop punk band.
JANA: 15. "Absolutely Still" by Better Than Ezra. Laugh if you will, but I love these guys. And I loved, LOVED seeing them at Power Plant Live in Baltimore. FOR FREE, Y'ALL. Of course it was on the hottest day Baltimore has ever had and my sweet tea crush melted but still. Awesome. There's something about going to see a once popular band but who wasn't really that popular and who's a little past their prime because you know all the fans are FANS. And they covered a Rush song.
ERIN: 16. "Angel Eyes (I'll Never Let You Go)" by Steelheart. Talk about seeing bands a little past their prime........I went to the inaugural Rocklahoma in 2007. Glam bands, hair bands, hair metal, call them what you want. My love for them will never die. I was joined in a field smack in the middle of nowhere Oklahoma by others who still loved this music too. We met people from different countries, different states, and different ages. Many "big" names from this era were there (Poison, RATT, Quiet Riot, Twisted Sister, Vince Neil, Dokken, more) - but, when the lead singer of Steelheart belted out this song and still hit those notes, it is safe to say that the crowd was blown away.
JANA: 17. "Enemies" by Shinedown. Going all the way back to two weeks ago when I attended Carnival of Madness. I can't even properly convey how I felt this concert in my bones. In my soul. Shinedown's music speaks to me like no other band's and to see them live...well, I can't quite process it all yet, never mind write about it. AND. As if the concert wasn't amazing enough, they opened up their set with Let's Go Crazy. The real Prince version. Not a cover.
ERIN: 18. "All out of Love" by Air Supply. They started their career over 40 years ago playing in Sydney restaurants. I saw them play at the Sydney Opera House. Let me tell you, there is something to be said for any band that can stay together for 40 years (the duo claim they've never even had a fight) and can fill a room full of people who will sing all of their songs word for word back to them.
We left out plenty that we wanted to add, but this is no longer about us...tell us about your live music experience and a significant song from a monumental concert in your musical journey.
Last Thursday of the month means it's time for another playlist with Jana and Erin - a playlist with a twist. Often, we try not to choose themes that you've seen time and time again. This month, we thought we'd get colorful and share songs with a "color" in the title. Of course, we don't just share any songs...we only share songs that we actually like. So, you ain't gonna find Coldplay's "Yellow" on our list. And, we know several of these songs are covers. We just happen to prefer some of the cover versions.
The metallics:
Gold on the Ceiling by The Black Keys
Silver and Cold by AFI
Stay Gold by Butch Walker
The repeat offenders:
Brown Sugar by The Rolling Stones
Paint It Black by The Rolling Stones
Little Red Corvette by Prince
Purple Rain by Prince (if you have not watched this SuperBowl performance lately, do yourself a favor and watch it):
Black by Pearl Jam
Yellow Ledbetter by Pearl Jam
Black Hole Sun by Soundgarden
Fell on Black Days by Soundgarden
The pinks:
Pink Houses by John Mellencamp
Pink Cadillac by Bruce Springsteen
The reds, whites, and blues: The Red by Chevelle
Red Barchetta by Rush
White Wedding by Billy Idol
Pretty Fly (for a White Guy) by The Offspring
Blue Monday by Orgy
Blue Morning, Blue Day by Foreigner
Behind Blue Eyes by Limp Bizkit
The blacks: Welcome to the Black Parade by My Chemical Romance
Back in Black by AC/DC
Black Balloon by The Goo Goo Dolls
Supermassive Black Hole by Muse
The song that doesn't fit in a category, but we like it, so it stays:
Amber by 311
We've included songs with a color in the title in previous playlists (I Saw Red by Warrant and Fade to Black by Metallica, to name a couple). And, we know this is a long list. If you are still with us, tell us...
It's that time again, the last Thursday of the month, the time that Jana and Erin bring you a playlist that usually has a theme with a twist. With the realization that we've been losing a lot of musical icons in recent times, we were inspired to bring you this post: favorite songs by (now) dead people.
*This is a long one. We make no apologies. We culled. We swear we did.
The plane crashes: Buddy Holly (Peggy Sue) - It's been called "Rock's First Tragedy" and "The Day That Music Died" when a plane crashed in snowy Iowa February 1959. It carried Ritchie Valens, the Big Bopper, and one of Jana's faves, Buddy Holly.
Stevie Ray Vaughan (Pride & Joy) - A bronze statue overlooks Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas to honor the loss of this guitar virtuoso and Texas son, another plane crash casualty (this one happening in 1990).
Lynyrd Skynyrd (Free Bird) - In 1977, three members perished in a plane crash carrying band members of this Southern Rock band. Most everyone knows "Sweet Home Alabama" and possibly have heard someone from a crowd yell "Free Bird!"...but when I listen to the opening lyrics "If I leave here tomorrow, will you still remember me?"...well, damn, considering how the man singing those lyrics died, it gives me chills every time.
The drink:
AC/DC - original lead singer, Bon Scott (T.N.T.) - I, Erin, have a personal story. My 8 year old stepson's favorite band is AC/DC. He can identify a song when it comes on the radio within a few notes. My husband and I had our first conversation about the dangers of too much alcohol with this 8 year old kid by telling him the history and untimely death of Bon Scott. In honor of my stepkid, here's his favorite AC/DC song.
Def Leppard - original lead guitarist and songwriter, Steve Clark (Armageddon It) - You could not be our age and not have some memory associated with a Def Leppard song. They were "that" big for a time period. In 1991, the height of their fame and popularity (#1 albums, sold out stadium tours), Steve Clark died of alcohol poisoning. The last album that he played fully on was their highest selling album of all time (25 million+), and Armageddon It is Jana's favorite song. (He's the one with the most bleached-blonde hair playing guitar.)
Warrant - lead singer, songwriter, Jani Lane (I Saw Red) - From Erin: this one hurt. I loved Warrant. I saw Warrant's last performance together with Jani singing in 2008. It was a trainwreck due to Jani's addiction. Some various documentary footage of Jani makes me almost cry. He is bloated and red-faced. His depression is palpable. He died alone in a hotel room from years of alcohol abuse. This is one of the all-time best power ballads. (Jani, I promise I won't remember you just as "the Cherry Pie guy".)
The drugs, oh, the drugs:
Janis Joplin (Piece of My Heart because we think we've already used Me & My Bobby McGee on a previous post) - One of the members of the infamous "27" club, musicians that died at the young age of 27. She could sing like she had balls and party as hard as the guys, but suffered because of it. Her cause of death was listed as heroin and alcohol.
The Doors - lead singer, songwriter, wearer of leather pants like no one's business, Jim Morrison (although other members have passed too)...(Break on Through) - Another 27 club member; some aren't fans of the psychedelic rock that The Doors produced. We are. Pretty sure we'd been crazy dancing groupies at the Whisky-a-go-go if we were in our late teens/early 20s in the late '60s.
Blind Melon - lead vocals and songwriter, Shannon Hoon (No Rain) - This band didn't have much time to reach a lot of success, but if you were alive pre-1995, listened to music, and/or watched MTV...you knew this song. Hoon, like several others on this list, died on his tour bus due to a drug overdose.
Sublime - lead vocals and guitar, Bradley Nowell (Santeria) - Ska punk? From us? Sure. We have eclectic tastes. Sadly, Bradley didn't get to experience the height of his recognition (due to his heroin overdose in 1996) as most of Sublime's biggest hits came posthumously.
Drowning Pool - lead singer, Dave Williams (Bodies) - Another tour bus tragedy. Officially, cause of death is due to an "undiagnosed heart condition"; unofficially, all that cocaine didn't help that unhealthy heart keep pumping.
Alice in Chains - lead vocalist, Layne Staley and bassist, Mike Starr (Rooster) - Not one, but two deaths by drug overdose. So many songs to choose. Jana had to choose. Erin just couldn't. They are all too good. Their songs, although labeled "grunge", are timeless rock music.
Stone Temple Pilots (and Velvet Revolver) - lead vocals and songwriter, Scott Weiland (Sex Type Thing) - From Erin: Out of all the artists listed, this is the one that has taken my money again and again. I've seen him live more times that I can count with STP, VR, and solo. I own his book. His ex-wife's too. I own many albums. STP "Core" still ranks as one of my all-time favorite albums ever. Scott's addiction was often in the media and in his lyrics. It was no surprise that he was found dead on a tour bus after a recent relapse. Terribly sad, but no surprise.
Violence:
Run DMC - dj, cut creator, mixer Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell(It's Tricky) - From Erin: In the world of hip hop and untimely deaths, Biggie Smalls and Tupac are the most mentioned. Run DMC was the first rap album (cassette, although my brother did own the vinyl record) that I owned. The fact that a southern suburban white girl knew every word to many of their songs is testament to the musical influence they had. When he was murdered, I was sad. Still am.
Pantera/Damageplan - lead guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott - No song attached; we had one in last month's post, but we still thought we'd share that time that Erin visited his grave outside Dallas, Texas. Shot dead by a Pantera "fan" at a concert with his new group Damageplan while his brother watched from the drum kit.
Mental illness, drugs, and violence: INXS - lead singer and lyricist, Michael Hutchence (Never Tear Us Apart) - He was dreamy to look at and to listen to, but he was battling some heavy demons. They caught up with Michael in 1997. His death was ruled by an Australian coroner as a "suicide while depressed under the influence of drugs and alcohol". His loss is still strongly felt in Australia. INXS Greatest Hits still regularly spends time in the top 10 of Australian sales charts.
Nirvana- lead singer and songwriter, Kurt Cobain (In Bloom) - A death that will be examined until music stops playing. A sufferer from reportedly various diagnoses of mental illness (severe ADHD, depression, and bipolar disorder), Kurt Cobain self-medicated by abusing hardcore drugs. Ultimately, this combination took his life which was ruled a suicide.
Complications from AIDS:
RATT - guitarist Robbin Crosby (Round and Round) - Predictably, a hair band musician is on a list of ours. Robbin's story is just heartbreaking about the perils of living the glamourized rock 'n' roll lifestyle. He was friends with his bandmates. Friends with other band members on the scene. (Nikki Sixx has frequently talked about their friendship.) Groupies don't have a bad word to say about him. Until the drugs took over. He was a heroin addict. He had a lot of unprotected sex. He was HIV positive and ultimately died from a heroin overdose while battling pneumonia as a complication of AIDS. (He's the super big blonde guy playing guitar.)
N.W.A. and solo rapper - Eric "Eazy E" Wright (Boyz in the Hood) - We have our East Coast representation from Jam Master Jay, and now West Coast legend, Eazy E. He was diagnosed and publicly announced in 1995. One month later he died from complications of AIDS.
Of course.........
Queen - singer, songwriter, genius, Freddie Mercury (Somebody to Love) - One of the greatest vocalists to ever perform rock 'n' roll. There are not enough words to describe this guy. The music he left behind does all the talking needed.
Cancer sucks:
Beastie Boys - vocals, songwriter, keyboard, and bass, Adam "MCA" Yauch (You Gotta Fight for Your Right to Party) - After his diagnosis, he announced his cancer was "very treatable". That cancer, she's a bitch. Sadly, she's been known to take down some of the best, like this hip hop legend and humanitarian.
Cause of death unknown (so far):
Prince - musician of a thousand instruments, singer, songwriter, producer, dancer, snazzy dresser, His Purple Highness, and more - He wasn't one that supported sharing his videos on youtube, but take a look at this display of talent right here playing a purple acoustic guitar.
And the list could go on for days...so, tell us who we missed. We know we left many on the edit floor. What is your favorite song by a (now) dead person?
I don't watch them all. You know. Those reality shows that are singing competitions. I've missed the X Factors and America's (Australia's) Got Talent. I've watched most American Idol seasons, a few seasons of The Voice (America & Australia), and the two Rock Star shows. So, no, this is not a complete list. There is no Susan Boyle, Singing Nun, or any of the One Direction guys. They all caused quite a stir, but I didn't see them. This list is completely my preferences and my favorites based on my viewing.
I stuck to a rule. They had to be memorable enough performances to me that I didn't have to go internet searching for help. I pulled from my mental rolodex to compose my list. Then, I used youtube to find video clips. Join me for this musical journey, will you? (There are 15 in all. I seriously doubt you will join me for the entire post, but it would be fun to believe that you will.) In no particular order....
1.Marty Casey (Rock Star INXS) - Pink Floyd's "Wish You Were Here" - I liked Marty. A lot. And bought his Lovehammers music since this show's appearances. If you like this performance, check out Marty perform Radiohead's "Creep" and Britney's "Baby One More Time".
2.Adam Lambert (American Idol) - Tears for Fears/Gary Jule's "Mad World" - Adam was know for his vocal theatrics. In this performance, he was controlled, intense, and magnificent.
3.Carrie Underwood (American Idol) - Heart's "Alone" - If I'm not
mistaken, Carrie is the Idol contestant that has sold the most. This is
the performance that caused Simon Cowell to correctly make that prediction. I have not purchased one song released by Carrie Underwood, but that doesn't mean that I don't respect her talent.
4.Jena Irene (American Idol) - Paramore's Decode - Most of the time, when I watch these shows, I ask myself "would I buy this person's album?" After seeing this performance, I decided I'd buy hers. Sadly, I'm not sure she even made an album.
5.Mitchell & Steve (The Voice Australia) - Marc Cohn's "Walking in Memphis" - Two seasoned veterans who've probably played a lot of bars and pubs, been session musicians, and never quite made it. Bless 'em for still chasing their dreams.
6.Dilana (Rock Star Supernova) - Nirvana's "Lithium" - Damn. This chick rocked. This performance rocked. (side note: Butch Walker fans - you catch a glimpse of our favorite producer a couple of times in this)
7.Chris Daughtry (American Idol) - Fuel's "Hemorrhage" - The worst tragedy in the history of American Idol is that Taylor Hicks (who?) won his season. But, Daughtry's career isn't worried about his loss. I love this guy's voice.
8.Toby Rand (Rock Star Supernova) - Original! - Prior to this television venture, Toby's group, Juke Kartel, had a good fan base in Australia. This was/is one of their songs. Yep, this one is still in regular rotation on my ipod as well as Juke Kartel's "Save Me". When I moved here in 2008, I saw them perform in a small pub in Sydney. And, it was awesome!
9.Kelly Clarkson (American Idol) - Aretha Franklin's "Natural Woman" - Am I remembering this correctly? She worked in Wal-Mart, right? She is the epitome of what this kind of show is capable of doing for you. Burleson, Texas y'all.
10.Matthew Garwood (The Voice Australia) - Phantom of the Opera's "All I Ask of You" - He didn't even make it past the battle rounds, but this performance gave me chills. So good. Plus, it is what makes that whole coaches don't get to see the singer until they turn around part about The Voice so much fun. The judges reactions in this clip are priceless.
11.David Cook (American Idol) - Mariah Carey's "Always Be My Baby" - I actually have this song on my work playlist. It shows that a good pop song can be worked to be appealing to anyone (because I can't take Mariah Carey's version).
12.Jordis Unga (Rock Star INXS) - David Bowie's "The Man Who Sold the World" - This song has been covered by many...most famously (is that a word?) by Nirvana. You know what? I like this version the absolute best. Truth. It is also on my work playlist. Meaning, for the last five years, I've heard this song on repeat at least 3 times a day. I still love it.
13.Bo Bice (American Idol) - Badlands "In a Dream" - He was going up against the girl with the major pipes (Carrie Underwood). He took a risk to show he could sing. I'm not sure if any other Idol contestant has ever sang acapella. I'm a sucker for a good ol' Southern boy singing a good ol' Southern rock song. What can I say?
14.Gabriel & Cecilia (The Voice Australia) - Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" - These shows, judges, coaches, mentors are always talking about making a song your own. This brother and sister duo did just that. This is BY FAR the most unique performance of a cover song I've seen on any show. They aren't necessarily my style of musicians, but I couldn't look past the musicianship and individuality. Warning: it's a bit strange, but it's 2 minutes. Give it a listen for the uniqueness of it. You may hate it, and that's okay too.
To close this little collection of mine..............
15. Clay Aiken (American Idol) - Simon and Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Water" - That's right...judge me all you want...but don't judge without listening because this performance is really good. I'm serious. It gave me goosebumps then, and I just watched it again. Goosebumps again. That last note. Wait for it. It's less than 3 minutes of your time to give.
What did I miss? If you watch or have watched any of these shows, share your most memorable performances with me.
Most bloggers are talking about New Year's Eve, looking back at 2015, posting "best of" posts, or even goals for the 2016. Not me. I'm taking a moment to mourn the end of one of my all-time favourite bands. Spotify created a playlist (since I failed to compile one, you should listen to theirs): #NowPlaying This Is: Mötley Crüe by Spotify https://open.spotify.com/user/spotify/playlist/6PQ5tPIaqp98aIYAwS7Li4
Tonight is the last night for Motley Crue. They end their 30+ years as a band on New Year's Eve in Los Angeles. The four original members signed a legal document stating that they would not be touring as MOTLEY CRUE ever again. This is it. (Nor can any one member solely own the name, grab some other musicians and tour under the ban name...like Axl Rose does with GNR.)
For me, for my era, they were the band that personified sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll with a mix of danger. Sure, there were others that did the same. Sure, there were others before them, others with more critical acclaim, others to follow. But, for me, Motley will forever hold a special place in my rocker girl heart.
My first Motley Crue concert was during the Girls Girls Girls tour (I can't remember if it was 1987 or 1988), and I've seen them more times than I can count. I've been on the front row, in smaller venues, and at festivals. I've danced, I've sang, I've rocked, and I've had my finger sucked by Nikki Sixx.
I think Mick Mars is one of the most under-rated guitar players of his time. Tommy Lee is a consummate showman. Vince Neil...well...Vince is Vince...still a party boy through and through. Nikki Sixx is a genius (in my humble opinion).
There have been:
Albums and Videos
Tours and Parties
Marriages and Divorces
Fist fights and Jail terms
Overdoses and Drunk-driving accidents
Groupies and Wives
Kids and Pets
Band break-ups and Reunion tours
Spandex and Leather
Hairspray and Eyeliner
Books and Documentaries
Side projects and Solo albums
Debauchery and Sobriety
Illness and Loss
Rotating drum kits and Guitars that shoot fire
Back-up singers and Strippers
Tattoos and Piercings
Pyrotechnics and Acrobatics
Reality shows and Talk of a movie
Arguments and Brotherly love
And...there has been rock 'n' fucking roll. As the lyrics to one of my favourite Crue songs (Primal Scream) says:
Crash & burn they did. In good ways and bad. And, I will forever love those reckless maniacs from the streets of Los Angeles. Their music will forever be a major player in the soundtrack of my life. Take a bow, guys. Thanks for the memories.
Do you like Halloween? Do you like rock music? Then, this is the playlist for you. Typically, I listen to Rob Zombie all day every Halloween. This year, I added a few others in a playlist so I can Rock This Halloween. You can rock with me too! (still heavy on Mr. Zombie songs)
This is not a playlist for those that want to Monster Mash or Time Warp...but don't let yourself think you can't dance to these songs. One of the reasons I love Rob Zombie so much is because I say he makes "rock music that I can dance to".
So, if you're looking for a little something heavier than Thriller this year, but you're not into Screamo or Black Metal either, then look no further. Play this, and play it loud!
What are some of your favorite rock tunes to listen to for Halloween?
I haven't written a music post in a while. I love music. And, I've needed some of these pick-me-up happy tunes in my life lately. So, here you have it. My Happy Playlist - a list of songs that no matter when they come on, I pretty much want to shake or shimmy or smile or sing-a-long (or all of the above). Yes, you can tell my age with this list.
Bad Medicine by Bon Jovi - It's rock music that I can dance to, and it's Bon Jovi. - I need to give no further explanation.
Poison by Bell Biv Devoe - "Never trust a big butt and a smile."
Livin' La Vida Loca by Ricky Martin - No matter how many times this song was played over and over and over again, I've never tired of it. It still brings out all kinds of dance moves.
Pour Some Sugar on Me by Def Leppard - "I'm hot sticky sweet from my head to my feet" - pretty much, if I was a stripper, this would be my go-to song.
Let It Whip by The Dazz Band - A little gem from the past that I almost forgot; that bridge that begins at 2:22 mark and ends with whoo-oo-oo is pure magic
If I Had You by Adam Lambert - No shame...I love me some Adam Lambert...and I will (without fail) sing-a-long "do do do do do do" to this song.
Freedom by Wham! - Not to be mistaken with George Michael's Freedom '90...as wonderful of a song as that is too, this is the bouncy, happy Freedom.
Private Eyes by Hall and Oates - It's the claps in this one that get me every time..."Private Eyes (clap) are watching you (clap clap)..."
Cool Rider by Michelle Pfeiffer - If you hang around these parts much, you probably know that I love Grease 2 more than most movies ever filmed. I could list the entire soundtrack...but, no ordinary song is going to do...this IS the quintessential one.
Hey Baby by No Doubt - I love Gwen and the boys with all my heart, and this one is just fun fun fun to sing and dance to.
Pride & Joy by Stevie Ray Vaughan - Genius guitarist from Texas that left us too soon singing and playing his version of a sweet love song.
Low by Flo Rida (and featuring someone else I'm sure) - Alright, I admit that I'm not necessarily down with the hip hop these days, but this one is da bomb diggity.
Ride The Wind by Poison - Look. I limited myself to three bands that rose to fame during the hair band era. That's pretty good for me. This one is an anthem for me.
Like It Like That by Guy Sebastian - A lot of you probably don't know this song from this Australian talent. If you like a good little pop song to shimmy to, then give this one a listen. Tell me if you do. I just love this song.
Hot Girls in Good Moods by Butch Walker - One of my all time faves singing a song with that title. I can't not like it.
I could keep this going, but that's enough for now. Maybe, I'll post a part two (and three).
