Sunday's Flashback Song - "Lost Without Your Love" by David Gates & Bread
Perhaps my most favorite male voice of all time was that of David Gates from the 70's group Bread. His tenor voice is so smooth, so sweet that it captivates you from the moment you first hear it. When you add to that some of the most beautiful love songs that were ever written, their catalog is truly a treasure. Bread's first album was in 1969 and titled simply bread and features one of my favorite Bread tunes "It Don't Matter To Me" (we'll feature that song another day). Their 2nd album in 1970 featured a song that came them their 1st #1 hit "Make It With You". They would follow with several more albums and a total of 5 Top 10 Billboard hits. The last of their Top 10 hits was a beautiful song about being completely lost without the one you were meant to be with...called simply "Lost Without Your Love" . I found it online with a very moving picture presentation to go with it here:
"Lost Without Your Love" - YouTube
Sadly, 3 of the original members of Bread passed away in the last 5 years so another reunion is out of the queston (they did a 25th anniversary tour in 1996 which would be their last together). I myself am such a fan of David Gates and Bread that when I play out I include several of their songs including "If", "Diary" and of course "Lost Without Your Love". By all accounts David is still writing and producing in his personal ranch studio in California. If you're reading this David please give me a call I would absolutely love to do a song with you some day!
"We are the World" to be recorded tomorrow/Monday
No thats not a typo...Quincy Jones has announced plans to re-record an updated version of "We are the World" tomorrow/Monday right after the Grammy awards tonight. Written by Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson and sung by a slew of top names/voices back in 1985, "We Are The World" helped raise millions of dollars for hunger across the planet. Proceeds from this new event will go towards the relief efforts in Haite where they will be recovering from the recent earthquake for many years to come. I myself am curious to hear what hte new "We are the World" sounds like...the first was a pretty magical listening experience and will be difficult to top. And better than that egos are even bigger than they were 25 years ago so Quincy will have his hands full tomrrow as he brings many of the current stars together tomorrow to participate. Stay tuned we're sure to hear the new version in the next couple weeks (or even sooner)!
Some Charts Reset Tonight
Tonight we reset 3 of the Voting charts - Alltime favorite songs and artists and current favorite artists so we're counting a new for 2010. We'll be adding some new names/songs to these charts in the next few days to reflect whose been popular the last few years.
Have a great nite all - enjoy the Grammys, the Pro-Bowl or whatever your watching. We'll be back tomorrow with some new news and another featured song!
~Vincent
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Saturday's Pick - "Black and Blue" by Jim Boggia
Several years back I had the good fortune of meeting (and even opening for)an up and coming singer-songwriter named Jim Boggia from the Philadelphia area. By up and coming I mean he was way past my level already :) Jim is possibly the most expressive performer I've ever seen on stage...as his songs and stories seem to come to life with every note he plays and sings. I also remember being amazed at how many great songs Jim brought to the table..."Several Thousand", "BubbleGum 45s", and even a beauty called "Peter Pan" about the joys and pitfalls of never having to grow up. Perhaps my favorite is a song called "Black and Blue" - a great mid-tempo pop number that tells the story of a songwriter-songwriter relationship that was brought to life in song itself when things went bad. The lyrics and music speak to the listener on a strong emotional level from beginning to end. I invite you to listen to Jim's song "Black and Blue" and check out many of his other cool songs you can find online:
"Black and Blue" - YouTube
An American Idol tidbit...In addition to being a very successful solo performer, Jim has also played in backup bands for many folks over the years and one fairly recent stint was for American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis. If you search you can also hear Constantine covering Jim's tune "Several Thousand"
Grammy Weekend - more parties and fun
The Grammy's are tomorrow night with many of the events and festivities being held all weekend. One party honored Neil Young as Musicares person of the year for all his philanthropic efforts over the years. You can read about it here plus items on Taylor Swift and Tina Campbell from gospel duo Mary, Mary
Pre-Grammy Party News
That's all for Saturday folks - its snowly slightly in Philly and cccccold. Hope you are keeping warm in your part of the woods...we'll be back tomorrow with a Sunday Song Flashback!
~Vincent
Several years back I had the good fortune of meeting (and even opening for)an up and coming singer-songwriter named Jim Boggia from the Philadelphia area. By up and coming I mean he was way past my level already :) Jim is possibly the most expressive performer I've ever seen on stage...as his songs and stories seem to come to life with every note he plays and sings. I also remember being amazed at how many great songs Jim brought to the table..."Several Thousand", "BubbleGum 45s", and even a beauty called "Peter Pan" about the joys and pitfalls of never having to grow up. Perhaps my favorite is a song called "Black and Blue" - a great mid-tempo pop number that tells the story of a songwriter-songwriter relationship that was brought to life in song itself when things went bad. The lyrics and music speak to the listener on a strong emotional level from beginning to end. I invite you to listen to Jim's song "Black and Blue" and check out many of his other cool songs you can find online:
"Black and Blue" - YouTube
An American Idol tidbit...In addition to being a very successful solo performer, Jim has also played in backup bands for many folks over the years and one fairly recent stint was for American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis. If you search you can also hear Constantine covering Jim's tune "Several Thousand"
Grammy Weekend - more parties and fun
The Grammy's are tomorrow night with many of the events and festivities being held all weekend. One party honored Neil Young as Musicares person of the year for all his philanthropic efforts over the years. You can read about it here plus items on Taylor Swift and Tina Campbell from gospel duo Mary, Mary
Pre-Grammy Party News
That's all for Saturday folks - its snowly slightly in Philly and cccccold. Hope you are keeping warm in your part of the woods...we'll be back tomorrow with a Sunday Song Flashback!
~Vincent
Friday, January 29, 2010
Friday's Fun - "You Belong With Me" by Taylor Swift
Well Taylor Swift has had quite a career so far with her latest CD "Fearless" spending 11 weeks at #1 and her total US Album sales alone over 9 Million (can you say ka'ching :)). She's even bigger on the internet having sold over 24 Million tracks. I can personally think of at least 5 Taylor Swift songs from the last few years that I really liked. They include "Our Song", "Love Story", "Teardrops on my Guitar", even "Fifteen" has grown on me quite a bit...but "You Belong with Me" is a gem that any pop writer would be proud to have written it. Tells the simple love triangle story with one person being the odd-girl out. Taylor's up for at least 8 Grammy Award's this weekend and I for one am hoping she wins a few (not all of them.. lets leave some for the other talented folks). To see and hear "You Belong to Me" check it out here:
"You Belong With Me" - YouTube
Grammy Weekend is Here
The 52nd Grammy Awards is here this Sunday Night - lots of great artists will be performing and taking home trophies. Michael Jackson will receive a posthumous Lifetime achievement award and his two eldest children Paris and Prince Michael will accept the award on Michael's behalf. I have to say, a musical world without Michael Jackson is pretty strange..I still don't think I realize he's really gone. He led a strange life but what an incredible entertainer - the most talented ever bar none in my opinion. To see a list of the Grammy nominee's for this Sundays telecast get it straight from the Grammy website at http://www.grammy.com/nominees
Friday is almost done folks - Hope you had a nice week and looking forward to a great weekend. We'll be back later tomorrow with another post and one of our favorite Indie love songs!
~Vincent
Well Taylor Swift has had quite a career so far with her latest CD "Fearless" spending 11 weeks at #1 and her total US Album sales alone over 9 Million (can you say ka'ching :)). She's even bigger on the internet having sold over 24 Million tracks. I can personally think of at least 5 Taylor Swift songs from the last few years that I really liked. They include "Our Song", "Love Story", "Teardrops on my Guitar", even "Fifteen" has grown on me quite a bit...but "You Belong with Me" is a gem that any pop writer would be proud to have written it. Tells the simple love triangle story with one person being the odd-girl out. Taylor's up for at least 8 Grammy Award's this weekend and I for one am hoping she wins a few (not all of them.. lets leave some for the other talented folks). To see and hear "You Belong to Me" check it out here:
"You Belong With Me" - YouTube
Grammy Weekend is Here
The 52nd Grammy Awards is here this Sunday Night - lots of great artists will be performing and taking home trophies. Michael Jackson will receive a posthumous Lifetime achievement award and his two eldest children Paris and Prince Michael will accept the award on Michael's behalf. I have to say, a musical world without Michael Jackson is pretty strange..I still don't think I realize he's really gone. He led a strange life but what an incredible entertainer - the most talented ever bar none in my opinion. To see a list of the Grammy nominee's for this Sundays telecast get it straight from the Grammy website at http://www.grammy.com/nominees
Friday is almost done folks - Hope you had a nice week and looking forward to a great weekend. We'll be back later tomorrow with another post and one of our favorite Indie love songs!
~Vincent
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Thursdays Tune - "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus
I will admit it I am a full fledged fan of Hannah Montana the TV show - You might think I would say its the music connection that draws me to it, and initially it was. But after watching a few episodes I realized the writing, casting and acting of the ensemble cast was one of the better sitcom combinations on any TV network. The story lines are interesting (for this kind of show), the jokes are funny, and there several funny characters on the show that always keep it moving. You almost forget that the show was supposed to be based on the music of Hannah Montana. When the HM show ends after this current season I for one will be sad to see it go.
Now for the main topic of the blog and that is how Miley Cyrus made a grown man cry. "The Climb" is not your typical love song - its about someone loving their dream enough to follow it no matter what, and to enjoy the ride because its that journey that will be remembered most not the destination. When I saw first saw the Hannah Montana movie last year and that song came on it was such a perfect spot; the writing/production and delivery of the song so emotional that yep ol VJ let out some tears. Now thats what music and art is all about - connecting with someone so strongly that you can't help but be overwhelmed by your feelings. If you haven't heard "The Climb" or heard it lately check it out here you won't be disappointed:
"The Climb" - YouTube
And if you haven't seen the movie go rent it and tell me if you doesn't make you think about your dreams.
Not counting her hits as Hannah Montana, Miley has had 4 Top 10 hits in the last year including "See You Again", "7 Things", "The Climb" and a very cool uptempo tune "Party in the USA" which went to #2 (will feature that one a little later).
I hope you had a great Thursdaaaayy - This weeks been crazy for me - will be back tomorrow with another tune and more news on the music scene - Its Grammy Weekend!!
~Vincent
I will admit it I am a full fledged fan of Hannah Montana the TV show - You might think I would say its the music connection that draws me to it, and initially it was. But after watching a few episodes I realized the writing, casting and acting of the ensemble cast was one of the better sitcom combinations on any TV network. The story lines are interesting (for this kind of show), the jokes are funny, and there several funny characters on the show that always keep it moving. You almost forget that the show was supposed to be based on the music of Hannah Montana. When the HM show ends after this current season I for one will be sad to see it go.
Now for the main topic of the blog and that is how Miley Cyrus made a grown man cry. "The Climb" is not your typical love song - its about someone loving their dream enough to follow it no matter what, and to enjoy the ride because its that journey that will be remembered most not the destination. When I saw first saw the Hannah Montana movie last year and that song came on it was such a perfect spot; the writing/production and delivery of the song so emotional that yep ol VJ let out some tears. Now thats what music and art is all about - connecting with someone so strongly that you can't help but be overwhelmed by your feelings. If you haven't heard "The Climb" or heard it lately check it out here you won't be disappointed:
"The Climb" - YouTube
And if you haven't seen the movie go rent it and tell me if you doesn't make you think about your dreams.
Not counting her hits as Hannah Montana, Miley has had 4 Top 10 hits in the last year including "See You Again", "7 Things", "The Climb" and a very cool uptempo tune "Party in the USA" which went to #2 (will feature that one a little later).
I hope you had a great Thursdaaaayy - This weeks been crazy for me - will be back tomorrow with another tune and more news on the music scene - Its Grammy Weekend!!
~Vincent
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Wednesdays Song - "Already Gone" by Kelly Clarkson
Kelly, Kelly, Kelly still love you! On her 4th album including her American Idol debut CD in 2003, Kelly shows she has no plans to leave the pop music scene anytime soon. This album featured "My Life Would Suck Without You" (#1 Billboard Hot 100), "I Do Not Hook Up" (#20 and another great pop/rocker like "My Life would Suck.." and now she hits us with "Already Gone" which made it to #13 on the Hot 100 chart. This is a haunting mid-tempo song that draws you in slowly one line at a time in the verse...then the soaring chorus of "Already Gone..." seals the deal and you undeniably in love with another Kelly tune. I was so glad to see her bounce back from the disappointing "My December" and look forward to seeing many more great tunes from her. 10 Million albums sold in the US and counting way to go Kelly and thanks to American Idol for finding this talented girl! Watch and listen to "Already Gone" here:
"Already Gone" - YouTube
Imagine for minute how many lives would have been different had Justin Guarini had won the First American Idol back in 2002. You just never know where fate is gonna take you!
Music Biz exec to replace Simon Cowell at American Idol?
Didn't I just post about this yesterday - man I'm psychic ha ha. Seems that music biz veteran Tommy Mottola (ie. the former Mr. Mariah Carey) is being courted by producers to replace Simon Cowell. I don't know if Tommy or any music biz exec has the charisma to pull this off but I guess we'll have to wait and find out. I wonder if its not working out Fox will pull an NBC move and yank the new judge and try to get Simon back :) The entertainment biz is a strange place. Here's a CNN Article on the possibility of Tommy Mottola replacing Simon: Tommy Mottola to replace Simon?
I watched both nites of Idol this week - there were a few singers that really caught my attention and some interesting back stories (and the whip was a nice touch too from the Barney girl :)). All in all its shaping up to be a good season and looking forward to the Hollywood round in a few weeks.
That's for Wednesday folks its been a crazy crazy day in my world. Have a great nite and will be back tomorrow with another tune for ya!
~Vincent
Kelly, Kelly, Kelly still love you! On her 4th album including her American Idol debut CD in 2003, Kelly shows she has no plans to leave the pop music scene anytime soon. This album featured "My Life Would Suck Without You" (#1 Billboard Hot 100), "I Do Not Hook Up" (#20 and another great pop/rocker like "My Life would Suck.." and now she hits us with "Already Gone" which made it to #13 on the Hot 100 chart. This is a haunting mid-tempo song that draws you in slowly one line at a time in the verse...then the soaring chorus of "Already Gone..." seals the deal and you undeniably in love with another Kelly tune. I was so glad to see her bounce back from the disappointing "My December" and look forward to seeing many more great tunes from her. 10 Million albums sold in the US and counting way to go Kelly and thanks to American Idol for finding this talented girl! Watch and listen to "Already Gone" here:
"Already Gone" - YouTube
Imagine for minute how many lives would have been different had Justin Guarini had won the First American Idol back in 2002. You just never know where fate is gonna take you!
Music Biz exec to replace Simon Cowell at American Idol?
Didn't I just post about this yesterday - man I'm psychic ha ha. Seems that music biz veteran Tommy Mottola (ie. the former Mr. Mariah Carey) is being courted by producers to replace Simon Cowell. I don't know if Tommy or any music biz exec has the charisma to pull this off but I guess we'll have to wait and find out. I wonder if its not working out Fox will pull an NBC move and yank the new judge and try to get Simon back :) The entertainment biz is a strange place. Here's a CNN Article on the possibility of Tommy Mottola replacing Simon: Tommy Mottola to replace Simon?
I watched both nites of Idol this week - there were a few singers that really caught my attention and some interesting back stories (and the whip was a nice touch too from the Barney girl :)). All in all its shaping up to be a good season and looking forward to the Hollywood round in a few weeks.
That's for Wednesday folks its been a crazy crazy day in my world. Have a great nite and will be back tomorrow with another tune for ya!
~Vincent
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Tuesdays Tune - "If You Only Knew" by Shinedown
I'm telling ya pop and pop-rock is making a comeback :) The band Shinedown from Jacksonville has had much success on the rock charts - every one of their 11 singles has cracked the Top 5 on the Mainstream radio charts - and now "If You Only Knew" went all the way to #42 on the Billboard Hot 100 - definitely the noise from their fans is getting louder you might want to join in. This is a great pop-rock song, beautiful message and the verse AND chorus melodys are a 1-2 knockout punch - Trust me listen to this and you'll be hooked:
"If You Only Knew" - YouTube
American Idol in LA tonight - taped :)
AI comes to us from the LA live auditions from last year and with any luck we'll have some interesting singers to hear and watch. Rumors are also swirling about who will replace Simon next year...Madonna? Jamie Foxx? I dunno I think we need another music biz exec who has the charisma and comebacks to match - there must be a music biz exec whose star is just waiting to shine. I'm sure we'll have to wait until this summer before any real announcement. I will definitely enjoy seeing Ellen on teh show this year and for Simon's replacement we'll just have to wait till summer.
Have a great nite all and we'll be back tomorrow with some notes on the Idol show tonight along with another pop'n'love tune!
~Vincent
I'm telling ya pop and pop-rock is making a comeback :) The band Shinedown from Jacksonville has had much success on the rock charts - every one of their 11 singles has cracked the Top 5 on the Mainstream radio charts - and now "If You Only Knew" went all the way to #42 on the Billboard Hot 100 - definitely the noise from their fans is getting louder you might want to join in. This is a great pop-rock song, beautiful message and the verse AND chorus melodys are a 1-2 knockout punch - Trust me listen to this and you'll be hooked:
"If You Only Knew" - YouTube
American Idol in LA tonight - taped :)
AI comes to us from the LA live auditions from last year and with any luck we'll have some interesting singers to hear and watch. Rumors are also swirling about who will replace Simon next year...Madonna? Jamie Foxx? I dunno I think we need another music biz exec who has the charisma and comebacks to match - there must be a music biz exec whose star is just waiting to shine. I'm sure we'll have to wait until this summer before any real announcement. I will definitely enjoy seeing Ellen on teh show this year and for Simon's replacement we'll just have to wait till summer.
Have a great nite all and we'll be back tomorrow with some notes on the Idol show tonight along with another pop'n'love tune!
~Vincent
Monday, January 25, 2010
Mondays Song - "Rain" by Creed
The band Creed was a significant part of the Rock and Top 40 radio airwaves from 1997 till 2002 before going their separate ways in 2004. With songs like "My Sacrifice", "With Arms Wide Open" and "One Last Breath" it was hard not to hear their pop-friendly tunes every day. After a 5 year break dabbling in solo and other projects Creed is back and have hit the pop music nail on the head yet again. Their new CD "Full Circle" released in 2009 features their latest single "Rain" which is another excellent mid-tempo pop-rocker that feels like it keeps moving underneath you while the rain falls from above. Creed may never match their earlier commerical success (26 million albums sold in US) but they have shown they still know how to a write a great song. Please take a listen here:
"Rain" - YouTube
Live Nation merges with Ticketmaster - One big Goliath
Live Nation and Ticketmaster just got the go-ahead from the Justice department for their planned merger so look for more changes on the live music front. Together the new Live Nation Entertainment controls some of the biggest artists on the planet including Madonna, The Eagles, Christina Aguilera and Jay Z and they also control many of the large venues in major cities. There was some language in the Justice Department findings that will help the smaller companies (a little...) but it remains to be seen how this will play out long term. For more info here's the full Rolling Stone article:
Live Nation - Ticketmaster Merger/
Well Monday came and went pretty quick (which is usually a good thing). Tomorrow we'll post our Borders Valentines Tour info along with another pop'n'love tune from the radio!
~Vincent
The band Creed was a significant part of the Rock and Top 40 radio airwaves from 1997 till 2002 before going their separate ways in 2004. With songs like "My Sacrifice", "With Arms Wide Open" and "One Last Breath" it was hard not to hear their pop-friendly tunes every day. After a 5 year break dabbling in solo and other projects Creed is back and have hit the pop music nail on the head yet again. Their new CD "Full Circle" released in 2009 features their latest single "Rain" which is another excellent mid-tempo pop-rocker that feels like it keeps moving underneath you while the rain falls from above. Creed may never match their earlier commerical success (26 million albums sold in US) but they have shown they still know how to a write a great song. Please take a listen here:
"Rain" - YouTube
Live Nation merges with Ticketmaster - One big Goliath
Live Nation and Ticketmaster just got the go-ahead from the Justice department for their planned merger so look for more changes on the live music front. Together the new Live Nation Entertainment controls some of the biggest artists on the planet including Madonna, The Eagles, Christina Aguilera and Jay Z and they also control many of the large venues in major cities. There was some language in the Justice Department findings that will help the smaller companies (a little...) but it remains to be seen how this will play out long term. For more info here's the full Rolling Stone article:
Live Nation - Ticketmaster Merger/
Well Monday came and went pretty quick (which is usually a good thing). Tomorrow we'll post our Borders Valentines Tour info along with another pop'n'love tune from the radio!
~Vincent
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Sunday's Love Song Flashback - "Clair" by Gilbert O'Sullivan
40 years ago an Irish singer-songwriter burst onto the US music scene with a voice that was unlike any other. Unmistakeable whenever you hear it, Gilbert's beautiful tenor delivers raw emotion at its very best. He hit the top of the Billboard chart in early 1972 with "Alone Again, Naturally" perhaps the saddest song ever to hit the airwaves. I personally was hooked on this song for many years first learning to play solo guitar using the instrumental passage from "Alone Again.." as a guide. Later that same year Gilbert hit #2 with "Clair" an uptempo ode to a girl he will never forget. This mid-tempo pop ditto will stick in your head long after you hear I promise. Gilbert is still actively releasing new music and performing live in his native Ireland (I wish it were in the states so I could go and see). Please listen to "Clair" and tell me what you think
"Clair" - YouTube
You can catch up with Gilbert's current activites on his own website at www.gilbertosullivan.com and if you make it to Ireland this year to see him pls say hi for me :)
I hope you all had a great weekend and I'm looking forward to making more updates to the website this week. Look for the full info on my Whirlwind Valentines Tour tomorrow and some fun with American Idol mid-week and of course a new pop'n'love song feature every day!
~Vincent
40 years ago an Irish singer-songwriter burst onto the US music scene with a voice that was unlike any other. Unmistakeable whenever you hear it, Gilbert's beautiful tenor delivers raw emotion at its very best. He hit the top of the Billboard chart in early 1972 with "Alone Again, Naturally" perhaps the saddest song ever to hit the airwaves. I personally was hooked on this song for many years first learning to play solo guitar using the instrumental passage from "Alone Again.." as a guide. Later that same year Gilbert hit #2 with "Clair" an uptempo ode to a girl he will never forget. This mid-tempo pop ditto will stick in your head long after you hear I promise. Gilbert is still actively releasing new music and performing live in his native Ireland (I wish it were in the states so I could go and see). Please listen to "Clair" and tell me what you think
"Clair" - YouTube
You can catch up with Gilbert's current activites on his own website at www.gilbertosullivan.com and if you make it to Ireland this year to see him pls say hi for me :)
I hope you all had a great weekend and I'm looking forward to making more updates to the website this week. Look for the full info on my Whirlwind Valentines Tour tomorrow and some fun with American Idol mid-week and of course a new pop'n'love song feature every day!
~Vincent
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Saturdays Indie Tune - "Danielle" by Leigh Goldstein
A few years back i had the good fortune to meet singer-songwriter Leigh Goldstein from the Philadelphia area. When I first heard his collection of songs I was pretty amazed. We meet so many indie songwriters/performers but we rarely meet one with so many songs that really touch us. Leigh's amazing gift has his smooth baritone voice reaching out to the listener with a story of love and loss - always making us feel the pain and joy along the way. I had the priviledge of hearing Leigh perform live many times and after hearing his CD I asked if I could record one of his songs entitled "A Little Bit". Perhaps my funniest story was when I played "A Little Bit" once in a crowded venue, two girls came up to me afterward and said that was teh best song they had ever heard. Which to me is the ultimate compliment for a songwriter and I quickly pointed them to Leigh and passed on the story so he could feel the looove :) For todays' indie release we're gonna feature another of Leigh's songs called Danielle and you can hear it on his MySpace page here. Its haunting etheral sound will connect with you immediately and you'll be quickly drawn into Leigh's special world:
"Danielle" by Leigh Goldstein at MySpace
95% of all Music Downloads Illegal?
A new report says that up to 95% of all music downloads are not paid downloads. While physicl CD sales continue to drop (16 % in 2009), digital sales increases are slowing down (just 12% last year after 25% in 2008). This seems to coincide with our post last Saturday about the possibility of streaming music becoming the new model to sell music (see our post from last Saturday The End of Itunes as we know it?? . Some how it will all have to work out and consumers will need to pay for music and arts in some fashion - the alternative would be that music and arts will slowly but surely die off which isn't a path any of us want to take. Here's the new article from Financial Times about the Digital Sales drop off Digital Sales Dropping Off
This last story reminds me of another funny Leigh Golstein moment...we were both playing at the local mall for Valentines Day or Fathers Day I can't remember...we were selling our CDs too and Leigh commented "I wish someone would just take my CD" - he was so happy at the idea that someone would like his music enough to steal it that he was okay with that...was a funny moment that I'll always remember.
That's all for Saturday - gots lots to do - will be back tomorrow/Sunday with another post and a flashback love song that you may have never heard before but wish you did :)
~Vincent
A few years back i had the good fortune to meet singer-songwriter Leigh Goldstein from the Philadelphia area. When I first heard his collection of songs I was pretty amazed. We meet so many indie songwriters/performers but we rarely meet one with so many songs that really touch us. Leigh's amazing gift has his smooth baritone voice reaching out to the listener with a story of love and loss - always making us feel the pain and joy along the way. I had the priviledge of hearing Leigh perform live many times and after hearing his CD I asked if I could record one of his songs entitled "A Little Bit". Perhaps my funniest story was when I played "A Little Bit" once in a crowded venue, two girls came up to me afterward and said that was teh best song they had ever heard. Which to me is the ultimate compliment for a songwriter and I quickly pointed them to Leigh and passed on the story so he could feel the looove :) For todays' indie release we're gonna feature another of Leigh's songs called Danielle and you can hear it on his MySpace page here. Its haunting etheral sound will connect with you immediately and you'll be quickly drawn into Leigh's special world:
"Danielle" by Leigh Goldstein at MySpace
95% of all Music Downloads Illegal?
A new report says that up to 95% of all music downloads are not paid downloads. While physicl CD sales continue to drop (16 % in 2009), digital sales increases are slowing down (just 12% last year after 25% in 2008). This seems to coincide with our post last Saturday about the possibility of streaming music becoming the new model to sell music (see our post from last Saturday The End of Itunes as we know it?? . Some how it will all have to work out and consumers will need to pay for music and arts in some fashion - the alternative would be that music and arts will slowly but surely die off which isn't a path any of us want to take. Here's the new article from Financial Times about the Digital Sales drop off Digital Sales Dropping Off
This last story reminds me of another funny Leigh Golstein moment...we were both playing at the local mall for Valentines Day or Fathers Day I can't remember...we were selling our CDs too and Leigh commented "I wish someone would just take my CD" - he was so happy at the idea that someone would like his music enough to steal it that he was okay with that...was a funny moment that I'll always remember.
That's all for Saturday - gots lots to do - will be back tomorrow/Sunday with another post and a flashback love song that you may have never heard before but wish you did :)
~Vincent
Friday, January 22, 2010
Fridays Featured Song - "Love Drunk" - Boys Like Girls
Here's a song I heard several months back and never caught the name of the band - Turns out it was Boys Like Girls with "Love Drunk" with a cool uptempo pop tune. This was the first single from their latest CD of the same name that was released in fall 2009. "Love Drunk" the song went to #22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and like so many other recent songs it gives me faith that pop music is on its way back (you know songs you can hear just one time and remember exactly how it goes). Take a looksee and listen to Love Drunk on the video featuring Ashley Tisdale (she's just in the video not on the song :)).
Love Drunk - YouTube
Boys Like Girls has another single climbing the charts right now called "Two is Better Than One" - a slower, softer mix with a heavenly chorus that really gets your attention. We'll definitely be featuring that song soon before we hit Valentines.
Manilow on Conan - Last night darn I missed it!!
Turns out Barry Manilow was the musical guest on the next to last Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien. Somehow I missed the memo and didn't realize so I missed it (and a search of YouTube has yet to appear which is surprising). Sounds like Barry has a new CD coming out this month called "The Greatest Love Songs of All Time" - I guess after he did the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80's he didnt' want to tackle the grunge 90's song catalog so he went for a wider selection. Look for a review of this new Barry album here sometime in February.
That's all for Friday nite folks - Hope you had a good week and will be back to you tomorrow with an indie pop song pick of the day (on Saturdays we feature the wanna be famous instead of the already famous :))
~Vincent
Here's a song I heard several months back and never caught the name of the band - Turns out it was Boys Like Girls with "Love Drunk" with a cool uptempo pop tune. This was the first single from their latest CD of the same name that was released in fall 2009. "Love Drunk" the song went to #22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and like so many other recent songs it gives me faith that pop music is on its way back (you know songs you can hear just one time and remember exactly how it goes). Take a looksee and listen to Love Drunk on the video featuring Ashley Tisdale (she's just in the video not on the song :)).
Love Drunk - YouTube
Boys Like Girls has another single climbing the charts right now called "Two is Better Than One" - a slower, softer mix with a heavenly chorus that really gets your attention. We'll definitely be featuring that song soon before we hit Valentines.
Manilow on Conan - Last night darn I missed it!!
Turns out Barry Manilow was the musical guest on the next to last Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien. Somehow I missed the memo and didn't realize so I missed it (and a search of YouTube has yet to appear which is surprising). Sounds like Barry has a new CD coming out this month called "The Greatest Love Songs of All Time" - I guess after he did the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80's he didnt' want to tackle the grunge 90's song catalog so he went for a wider selection. Look for a review of this new Barry album here sometime in February.
That's all for Friday nite folks - Hope you had a good week and will be back to you tomorrow with an indie pop song pick of the day (on Saturdays we feature the wanna be famous instead of the already famous :))
~Vincent
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Thursday's Tune - "Just Haven't Met You Yet" by Michael Buble
Michael Buble's big break came from singing at a corporate party when an aide to former Canadian Prime Minister heard him and passed his CD along and Michael ended up singing at a wedding where legendary producer David Foster was in attendance. It took some convincing and a lot more work on Michael's part but things worked out. He soon had a very strong career doing mostly covers of old standards and the occassional original song that came through. "Home" from his second album put him on the Billboard Pop chart for the first time and "Everything" from his 3rd album did it again landing a little higher on the chart (#46). Fast forward to fall 2009 and the release of Michael's 4th CD and the song "Just Haven't Met you Yet" is a wonderful pop gem. Uptempo, slightly reminiscint of Sara Barrelis "Love Song" (but definitely its own song)..it has such a cool groove and vocal hook you can't help but want to hear it again and again. Check it out here and see if you don't agree:
"Just Haven't Met You Yet" - YouTube
American Idol - Orlando fared much better
Based on the reviews from last nights show, Orlando fared much better than the snooze fest in Chicago the night before. Definitely looking forward to hearing the sunshine state contestants when Hollywood week starts. Speaking of Michael Buble and American Idol, he appeared on an AI episode back in 2007 and I'm no drinker but the man definitely came off as having a few too many. Being a live TV show I was pretty shocked to see it and my opinion of Michael wasn't too high at that point. Unfortunately the lives on forever on the internet and will hopefully serve as a reminder to performers what not to do when going on live TV. Here's a link to a story and clip from 2007:
Michael Buble on American Idol results show in 2007
That's all for Thuuursday folks...have a great nite and will be back to you Friday with another cool pop'n'love song.
~Vincent
Michael Buble's big break came from singing at a corporate party when an aide to former Canadian Prime Minister heard him and passed his CD along and Michael ended up singing at a wedding where legendary producer David Foster was in attendance. It took some convincing and a lot more work on Michael's part but things worked out. He soon had a very strong career doing mostly covers of old standards and the occassional original song that came through. "Home" from his second album put him on the Billboard Pop chart for the first time and "Everything" from his 3rd album did it again landing a little higher on the chart (#46). Fast forward to fall 2009 and the release of Michael's 4th CD and the song "Just Haven't Met you Yet" is a wonderful pop gem. Uptempo, slightly reminiscint of Sara Barrelis "Love Song" (but definitely its own song)..it has such a cool groove and vocal hook you can't help but want to hear it again and again. Check it out here and see if you don't agree:
"Just Haven't Met You Yet" - YouTube
American Idol - Orlando fared much better
Based on the reviews from last nights show, Orlando fared much better than the snooze fest in Chicago the night before. Definitely looking forward to hearing the sunshine state contestants when Hollywood week starts. Speaking of Michael Buble and American Idol, he appeared on an AI episode back in 2007 and I'm no drinker but the man definitely came off as having a few too many. Being a live TV show I was pretty shocked to see it and my opinion of Michael wasn't too high at that point. Unfortunately the lives on forever on the internet and will hopefully serve as a reminder to performers what not to do when going on live TV. Here's a link to a story and clip from 2007:
Michael Buble on American Idol results show in 2007
That's all for Thuuursday folks...have a great nite and will be back to you Friday with another cool pop'n'love song.
~Vincent
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Wednesday's Tune - "Halfway Gone" by Lifehouse
Lifehouse burst on the scene with the tune "Hanging by a Moment" back in 2001 which I thought was pretty good and it went all the way to #2 on the Billboard Top 40 chart. Since then they have had several singles on the charts including "You and Me" (#5) and "Whatever It Takes" (#23). But their new song "Halfway Gone" really grabbed my attention from the first haunting oooohhhh that kicks off the song. The verse builds perfectly and the chorus delivers like nobodies business. If you like a strong pop song take a listen to "Halfway Gone" and you won't be disappointed (#79 on Billboard chart and climbing!!!)
"Halfway Gone" - YouTube
American Idol - Missed Wed nite will check out the recaps
I caught Tuesday nites show from Chicago the windy city and overall I was less than impressed..nothing really great and nothing really interesting. Hopefully the show tonight from Orlando was much better. I still have "Pants on the Ground" from last week and the unforgettable Skibolski both from the Boston auditions (I think :)). On top of that some of the singers last week were really really good. I'll check out the recaps from Orlando and include some thoughts on my Thursday post tomorrow.
Almost didn't make my Wednesday post in time its 11:22 PM EST and counting...16 days straight for our Daily Blog don't wanna start missing it now. Will be back tomorrow with another cool song and some more music fun!
~Vincent
Lifehouse burst on the scene with the tune "Hanging by a Moment" back in 2001 which I thought was pretty good and it went all the way to #2 on the Billboard Top 40 chart. Since then they have had several singles on the charts including "You and Me" (#5) and "Whatever It Takes" (#23). But their new song "Halfway Gone" really grabbed my attention from the first haunting oooohhhh that kicks off the song. The verse builds perfectly and the chorus delivers like nobodies business. If you like a strong pop song take a listen to "Halfway Gone" and you won't be disappointed (#79 on Billboard chart and climbing!!!)
"Halfway Gone" - YouTube
American Idol - Missed Wed nite will check out the recaps
I caught Tuesday nites show from Chicago the windy city and overall I was less than impressed..nothing really great and nothing really interesting. Hopefully the show tonight from Orlando was much better. I still have "Pants on the Ground" from last week and the unforgettable Skibolski both from the Boston auditions (I think :)). On top of that some of the singers last week were really really good. I'll check out the recaps from Orlando and include some thoughts on my Thursday post tomorrow.
Almost didn't make my Wednesday post in time its 11:22 PM EST and counting...16 days straight for our Daily Blog don't wanna start missing it now. Will be back tomorrow with another cool song and some more music fun!
~Vincent
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Tuesdays Song - "Falling for You" by Colbie Caillat
Maybe its the uptempo beat or just the simple yet refreshing chorus hook that just draws me in..I'm not sure what it is but I really like Colbie Caillat's "Falling For You" better than her previous two singles even though "Bubbly" was a top 5 hit and "Realize" cracked the Top 20. Still "Falling for You" hit #12 which isn't too shabby and I think in the end has more staying power. If you don't know Colbie's story its pretty cool...her dad Ken Caillat co-produced both the Rumours and Tusk by the legendary Fleetwood Mac (definitely had a musical upbringing). As an unsigned singer Colbie's MySpace page became incredibly popular which let to her major label ties, 2 CD releases and lots more we hope. To hear this cool tune check out the YouTube video at "Falling for You" - YouTube
Music Stars onboard for Haiti Telethon
Taylor Swift, Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera and others have signed on for the Hope for Haiti now telethon this Friday January 22nd. For some more info on this important cause visit the People magazine article at Hope for Haiti Now Concert. I know the past year has been tough for many of us but if there is anything you can give to help the effort I'm sure the people living the tragedy every day will appreciate it.
That's all for today folks...be back tomorrow with more music news and another featured song...hmmm I wonder what it will be (really i do since I don't usually decide until right before I post :))
~Vincent
Maybe its the uptempo beat or just the simple yet refreshing chorus hook that just draws me in..I'm not sure what it is but I really like Colbie Caillat's "Falling For You" better than her previous two singles even though "Bubbly" was a top 5 hit and "Realize" cracked the Top 20. Still "Falling for You" hit #12 which isn't too shabby and I think in the end has more staying power. If you don't know Colbie's story its pretty cool...her dad Ken Caillat co-produced both the Rumours and Tusk by the legendary Fleetwood Mac (definitely had a musical upbringing). As an unsigned singer Colbie's MySpace page became incredibly popular which let to her major label ties, 2 CD releases and lots more we hope. To hear this cool tune check out the YouTube video at "Falling for You" - YouTube
Music Stars onboard for Haiti Telethon
Taylor Swift, Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera and others have signed on for the Hope for Haiti now telethon this Friday January 22nd. For some more info on this important cause visit the People magazine article at Hope for Haiti Now Concert. I know the past year has been tough for many of us but if there is anything you can give to help the effort I'm sure the people living the tragedy every day will appreciate it.
That's all for today folks...be back tomorrow with more music news and another featured song...hmmm I wonder what it will be (really i do since I don't usually decide until right before I post :))
~Vincent
Monday, January 18, 2010
Tribute to Martin Luther King Jr - "Pride (In the Name of Love)" by U2
There are many songs that give tribute to perhaps one of the greatest promoters of peace the world has ever known. Most of these songs never crossed over into the pop realm rising up the charts, with one notable exception "Pride (In the Name of Love)" by rock legends U2. A powerful anthemic song from the early 80's, Bono and crew hit the nail on the head with this song that still reverberates today in so many ways. For more info on this song visit the SongFacts entry on it at Pride (in the Name of Love) - SongFacts where you can also stream the music straight to your ears. For Spinner.com's article on 15 MLK tribute songs start reading here: 15 MLK Tribute Songs at Spinner.com/.
It seems the message of peace brought forth by Dr. King and many others will never go out of style due to the constant war, strife and ethnic & racial conflicts both abroad and in the US. My hope is that some day there will be a more peaceful tomorrow where we can all say "remember when this message was so important - when we really needed it". Some day maybe we won't - when that happens the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. will still live on but our world will certainly be a better place.
~Vincent
There are many songs that give tribute to perhaps one of the greatest promoters of peace the world has ever known. Most of these songs never crossed over into the pop realm rising up the charts, with one notable exception "Pride (In the Name of Love)" by rock legends U2. A powerful anthemic song from the early 80's, Bono and crew hit the nail on the head with this song that still reverberates today in so many ways. For more info on this song visit the SongFacts entry on it at Pride (in the Name of Love) - SongFacts where you can also stream the music straight to your ears. For Spinner.com's article on 15 MLK tribute songs start reading here: 15 MLK Tribute Songs at Spinner.com/.
It seems the message of peace brought forth by Dr. King and many others will never go out of style due to the constant war, strife and ethnic & racial conflicts both abroad and in the US. My hope is that some day there will be a more peaceful tomorrow where we can all say "remember when this message was so important - when we really needed it". Some day maybe we won't - when that happens the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. will still live on but our world will certainly be a better place.
~Vincent
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Sundays Classic Love Song - "Bluer Than Blue" - by Michael Johnson
Thirty-two years ago Michael Johnson took this very wistful song entitled "Bluer Than Blue" to #12 on the Billboard Pop Chart and #1 on the AC Chart. The song talks about how great life is going to be now that his lover is gone - all the things he'll be able to do now....but truth be told he's feeling about as sad as he can be and "Bluer Than Blue" expresses it perfectly. If you haven't heard this song before I definitely recommend you check it out on this YouTube Link
"Bluer Than Blue" - YouTube
Launch of International Love Songs
Our International Love Songs section is launching this evening with one important catch. There are no love songs listed yet...instead we're asking our visitors from across the world to tell us their favorite love songs from their culture. We'll post up what we get in every weekend and adding new countries along the way. To check it out or submit a song from your country please visit International Love Songs
Sundays now toast and tomorrow is Martin Luther King day. On this day we'll reflect on what it means to all of us living on this planet. We'll also try to tie-in a special love song that fits the message.
~Vincent
Thirty-two years ago Michael Johnson took this very wistful song entitled "Bluer Than Blue" to #12 on the Billboard Pop Chart and #1 on the AC Chart. The song talks about how great life is going to be now that his lover is gone - all the things he'll be able to do now....but truth be told he's feeling about as sad as he can be and "Bluer Than Blue" expresses it perfectly. If you haven't heard this song before I definitely recommend you check it out on this YouTube Link
"Bluer Than Blue" - YouTube
Launch of International Love Songs
Our International Love Songs section is launching this evening with one important catch. There are no love songs listed yet...instead we're asking our visitors from across the world to tell us their favorite love songs from their culture. We'll post up what we get in every weekend and adding new countries along the way. To check it out or submit a song from your country please visit International Love Songs
Sundays now toast and tomorrow is Martin Luther King day. On this day we'll reflect on what it means to all of us living on this planet. We'll also try to tie-in a special love song that fits the message.
~Vincent
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Saturdays Song - "Does Anybody Know" - Jag Star
During the spring this year I had the privliedge of helping to judge entries for the Just Plain Folks music awards. Unfortunately I didn't get to vote in the Pop Song category but if I did "Does Anybody Know" by Jag Star would have been right up there. Fortunately other judges seemed to notice the incredibly strong hook and "Does Anybody Know" ended up winning the Pop Song category. Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, Jag Star has had their music featured on many TV shows including The Soup, The Hills and Laguna Beach and even on the David Letterman show. This tunes definitely a beauty you can check it out on their MySpace page, and scroll down to about song #6. Heck while your at it listen to all their songs posted you won't be disappointed.
Jag Star on MySpace
Download Sales Leveling Off - The End of ITunes? - Reuters
Very interesting article about how music downloads are leveling off and streaming music may be the business of the future. Here's a snippet of the article:
"The migration from downloads to streams is driven by several factors. First is the realization that the digital download market is beginning to level off.
While digital downloads account for the vast majority of digital music revenue, they aren't even close to making up for the lost revenue from falling CD sales. That's why labels and digital music services are turning more attention to streaming music access services that carry either a monthly fee or provide opportunities to "upsell" to other products..."
For the full article on whats going on with this go to Music Downloading Article on Reuters.com
That's all for Saturddddday...have a great nite and will be back tomorrow with a classic love song that you may never have heard...its a surprisssse :)
~Vincent
During the spring this year I had the privliedge of helping to judge entries for the Just Plain Folks music awards. Unfortunately I didn't get to vote in the Pop Song category but if I did "Does Anybody Know" by Jag Star would have been right up there. Fortunately other judges seemed to notice the incredibly strong hook and "Does Anybody Know" ended up winning the Pop Song category. Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, Jag Star has had their music featured on many TV shows including The Soup, The Hills and Laguna Beach and even on the David Letterman show. This tunes definitely a beauty you can check it out on their MySpace page, and scroll down to about song #6. Heck while your at it listen to all their songs posted you won't be disappointed.
Jag Star on MySpace
Download Sales Leveling Off - The End of ITunes? - Reuters
Very interesting article about how music downloads are leveling off and streaming music may be the business of the future. Here's a snippet of the article:
"The migration from downloads to streams is driven by several factors. First is the realization that the digital download market is beginning to level off.
While digital downloads account for the vast majority of digital music revenue, they aren't even close to making up for the lost revenue from falling CD sales. That's why labels and digital music services are turning more attention to streaming music access services that carry either a monthly fee or provide opportunities to "upsell" to other products..."
For the full article on whats going on with this go to Music Downloading Article on Reuters.com
That's all for Saturddddday...have a great nite and will be back tomorrow with a classic love song that you may never have heard...its a surprisssse :)
~Vincent
Friday, January 15, 2010
Fridays Featured Song - "Come On Get Higher"
Matt Nathanson spent the better part of 15 years doing the indie thing playing venues across America and steadily building up a fan base. Matt finally hit paydirt when the 2nd single "Come on Get Higher" from his 6th album "Some Mad Hope" hit the Billboard Hot 100 Chart and went all the way to #3 on the AC Chart. The album came out in 2007 but the single finally caught file in 2009 and helped land Matt on both the David Letterman show and Ellen DeGenerous show. This acoustic marvel has an infectious groove that you won't want to put down and it was perfect for Valentines week on Letterman last year. Take a listen to Matt's live performance from the show here:
"Come On Get Higher" - YouTube
Late Night Battles - when will it endddd??
Okay so Conan says he won't do the TOnight show at 12:05 (I guess we'd have to call it the Morning show and Johnny Carson would be turning over in his grave)....so now will Leno take back the Tonight show at 11:35 or will someone else new take over...will it ever be the same if Leno takes it back (and more importantly will Jay miss that extra 90 minutes of sleep if he does). Not sure where its all going (and there are definitely more important things going on in the world) so we'll just have to wait and see.
"Pants on the Ground" - Simon Sez so its a hit.
62 year old General Larry Platt entertained us all with his funny tune "Pants on the Ground" this week on American Idol. Simon needed to hear it just once when he commented "I Have a horrible feeling that song could be a hit" and turns out his prophecy was true. "Pants on the Ground" has spread like wild fire on the internet with several popular remixes. Here the original here "Pants on the Ground" - YouTube
Have a great Friday nite and be back to you tomorrow with a cool indie pop song!
~Vincent
Matt Nathanson spent the better part of 15 years doing the indie thing playing venues across America and steadily building up a fan base. Matt finally hit paydirt when the 2nd single "Come on Get Higher" from his 6th album "Some Mad Hope" hit the Billboard Hot 100 Chart and went all the way to #3 on the AC Chart. The album came out in 2007 but the single finally caught file in 2009 and helped land Matt on both the David Letterman show and Ellen DeGenerous show. This acoustic marvel has an infectious groove that you won't want to put down and it was perfect for Valentines week on Letterman last year. Take a listen to Matt's live performance from the show here:
"Come On Get Higher" - YouTube
Late Night Battles - when will it endddd??
Okay so Conan says he won't do the TOnight show at 12:05 (I guess we'd have to call it the Morning show and Johnny Carson would be turning over in his grave)....so now will Leno take back the Tonight show at 11:35 or will someone else new take over...will it ever be the same if Leno takes it back (and more importantly will Jay miss that extra 90 minutes of sleep if he does). Not sure where its all going (and there are definitely more important things going on in the world) so we'll just have to wait and see.
"Pants on the Ground" - Simon Sez so its a hit.
62 year old General Larry Platt entertained us all with his funny tune "Pants on the Ground" this week on American Idol. Simon needed to hear it just once when he commented "I Have a horrible feeling that song could be a hit" and turns out his prophecy was true. "Pants on the Ground" has spread like wild fire on the internet with several popular remixes. Here the original here "Pants on the Ground" - YouTube
Have a great Friday nite and be back to you tomorrow with a cool indie pop song!
~Vincent
Thursday, January 14, 2010
RIP Teddy - The Sound of Philadelphia
News today that Teddy Pendergrass lost his battle with cancer and passed away at the age of 59. Teddy was one of the original love song singers and helped defined the Sound of Philadelphia back in the early-mid 70's. At the pinnacle of his career, Teddy's luck took a down turn in 1982 when he was paralyzed from the waste down in an auto accident. He eventually returned to music recording and performed live again including sellout shows in Atlantic City. Teddy you will surely be missed but you will live on through your music. One of Teddy's signature tunes was "If You Don't Know Me by Now" from his days singing lead with Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes. Take a listen now to this beautiful tune and see Teddy at his prime in 1972:
"If You Don't Know Me By Now" - YouTube
Don't look now the week is almost over..I hope its been a good one for you and you've got some nice plans for the weekend. I'll be playing tomorrow/Friday at the Coffee Club in Media to prepare for my crazy Valentines tour on Sat Feb 13th. More info on that next week along with more updates to the website. Will be back tomorrow with another great pop tune!
~Vincent
News today that Teddy Pendergrass lost his battle with cancer and passed away at the age of 59. Teddy was one of the original love song singers and helped defined the Sound of Philadelphia back in the early-mid 70's. At the pinnacle of his career, Teddy's luck took a down turn in 1982 when he was paralyzed from the waste down in an auto accident. He eventually returned to music recording and performed live again including sellout shows in Atlantic City. Teddy you will surely be missed but you will live on through your music. One of Teddy's signature tunes was "If You Don't Know Me by Now" from his days singing lead with Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes. Take a listen now to this beautiful tune and see Teddy at his prime in 1972:
"If You Don't Know Me By Now" - YouTube
Don't look now the week is almost over..I hope its been a good one for you and you've got some nice plans for the weekend. I'll be playing tomorrow/Friday at the Coffee Club in Media to prepare for my crazy Valentines tour on Sat Feb 13th. More info on that next week along with more updates to the website. Will be back tomorrow with another great pop tune!
~Vincent
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Wednesdays Song - "Bad Romance" - Ga ga on a roll
Lady Gaga is continuing her dominance of the pop/dance market with her latest hit "Bad Romance" from her new CD "The Fame Monster". Her debut CD "The Fame" gave us 4 Top 10 hits including #1's "Just Dance" and "Poker Face". "Bad Romance" is about wanting it all ("not just friends") and is perhaps the best of the bunch with "Ra Ra-ah-ah-ah Roma Roma-ma GaGa Oh la-la.." sounding amazingly cool. I know most artists only get 15 minutes but I think Lady Gaga has signed on for at least an extended hour. If you haven't heard "Bad Romance" yet take a listen on this YouTube link:
"Bad Romance" - YouTube
My first American Idol Pick - Tyler Grady
The American Idol Boston and Atlanta audition broadcasts are history and my favorite from both nites is Tyler Grady from Nazareth, PA. Singing with both forearms in a cast (fell from a tree?), Tyler's voice has more texture and depth than most of the other contestants combined. Add to that his look and it was almost like the 2nd coming of Jim Morrison. Definitely see a lot of potential with this one and will be curious to see how far he goes...many great singers fall part during the Hollywood round. The funniest contestant going to Hollywood would be Atlanta's Skibolski (check that spelling)....he was over the top (strange) and actually had a great voice. He will definitely provide some entertainment in the next round.
Say A Prayer for Haiti
Unbelievable a 7.0 earthquake hit the small island nation of Haiti yesterday possibly killing hundreds of thousands of people and affecting 3 million residents. Say a prayer for them this week and if your able to donate to help visit the Red Cross website at http://redcross.org/
Hope your week is going well look out its almost the weekend. Will be back on Thursday with another cool pop tune (hopefully I'm not running out of great songs anytime soon ha :))
~Vincent
Lady Gaga is continuing her dominance of the pop/dance market with her latest hit "Bad Romance" from her new CD "The Fame Monster". Her debut CD "The Fame" gave us 4 Top 10 hits including #1's "Just Dance" and "Poker Face". "Bad Romance" is about wanting it all ("not just friends") and is perhaps the best of the bunch with "Ra Ra-ah-ah-ah Roma Roma-ma GaGa Oh la-la.." sounding amazingly cool. I know most artists only get 15 minutes but I think Lady Gaga has signed on for at least an extended hour. If you haven't heard "Bad Romance" yet take a listen on this YouTube link:
"Bad Romance" - YouTube
My first American Idol Pick - Tyler Grady
The American Idol Boston and Atlanta audition broadcasts are history and my favorite from both nites is Tyler Grady from Nazareth, PA. Singing with both forearms in a cast (fell from a tree?), Tyler's voice has more texture and depth than most of the other contestants combined. Add to that his look and it was almost like the 2nd coming of Jim Morrison. Definitely see a lot of potential with this one and will be curious to see how far he goes...many great singers fall part during the Hollywood round. The funniest contestant going to Hollywood would be Atlanta's Skibolski (check that spelling)....he was over the top (strange) and actually had a great voice. He will definitely provide some entertainment in the next round.
Say A Prayer for Haiti
Unbelievable a 7.0 earthquake hit the small island nation of Haiti yesterday possibly killing hundreds of thousands of people and affecting 3 million residents. Say a prayer for them this week and if your able to donate to help visit the Red Cross website at http://redcross.org/
Hope your week is going well look out its almost the weekend. Will be back on Thursday with another cool pop tune (hopefully I'm not running out of great songs anytime soon ha :))
~Vincent
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Tuesday's Song - "Uprising"
Okay is kind of a wierd song and even a weirder video....and thats before the giant evil stuff teddy bears crawl out of the ground and start wreaking havoc on the city. There is however something very cool about the song as the verses bring you into a trance and then the chorus hits you over the head with a big pop anthemic (is that a word) sound. The song "Uprising" is by alt-rockers Muse from across the pond in the UK. Out in the music world since 1994, this is their 5th studio album and "Uprising" is their first foray into the US Top 40 radio market (congrats!). See kids hang around long enough and you just might start to get the attention you deserve. Check out "Uprising" by Muse on this YouTube Link
"Uprising" - YouTube
Tonights the Night for IDOL
First set of auditions start tonight with auditions in Boston along with guest judge Victoria Beckham otherwise known as Posh Spice. Looking forward to some strange auditions and hopefully some bright spots as well. We'll be back tomorrow with our thoughts along with another song of the dayyyy!
~Vincent
Okay is kind of a wierd song and even a weirder video....and thats before the giant evil stuff teddy bears crawl out of the ground and start wreaking havoc on the city. There is however something very cool about the song as the verses bring you into a trance and then the chorus hits you over the head with a big pop anthemic (is that a word) sound. The song "Uprising" is by alt-rockers Muse from across the pond in the UK. Out in the music world since 1994, this is their 5th studio album and "Uprising" is their first foray into the US Top 40 radio market (congrats!). See kids hang around long enough and you just might start to get the attention you deserve. Check out "Uprising" by Muse on this YouTube Link
"Uprising" - YouTube
Tonights the Night for IDOL
First set of auditions start tonight with auditions in Boston along with guest judge Victoria Beckham otherwise known as Posh Spice. Looking forward to some strange auditions and hopefully some bright spots as well. We'll be back tomorrow with our thoughts along with another song of the dayyyy!
~Vincent
Monday, January 11, 2010
Monday's Song of the Day - "FireFlies"
I have no idea what this song is about but its one of the coolest pop songs and studio productions I've heard in a long time. The group Owl City is really Adam Young from Owatonna, Minnesota where its probably so cold (now) you get to spend a lot of quality time in the studio. Adam apparently did some indie releases before he caught the attention of major label Universal Republic and the rest as they say is history. "FireFlies" was a #1 hit in the US and at one point was the most downloaded song on ITunes. No surprise once again its a really neat tune. If you have't heard it yet check it out using the YouTube link below. And if you know what the heck the song is about please let me know :)
"FireFlies" - YouTube
Simon heading to X-Factor - Bye bye Idol (next Year)
Its official this will be Simon Cowell's last year on American Idol so he won't make it to the 10th season next year. Don't cry too much though we will still get to see Simon on his new show X-Factor which is coming to FOX in the fall of 2011 (which is next year wow). Whats cool about this show is the age limits are like from 14 to 100+ and groups can also audition. Looks like its time to spiff up the old vocal chords and find myself an audition location ha ha...seriously who knows we'll check it out.
Hope your weekend was fab and your week is gonna go great. That's all for Monday be back tomorrow with another ccccool (but not cold) song!
~Vincent
I have no idea what this song is about but its one of the coolest pop songs and studio productions I've heard in a long time. The group Owl City is really Adam Young from Owatonna, Minnesota where its probably so cold (now) you get to spend a lot of quality time in the studio. Adam apparently did some indie releases before he caught the attention of major label Universal Republic and the rest as they say is history. "FireFlies" was a #1 hit in the US and at one point was the most downloaded song on ITunes. No surprise once again its a really neat tune. If you have't heard it yet check it out using the YouTube link below. And if you know what the heck the song is about please let me know :)
"FireFlies" - YouTube
Simon heading to X-Factor - Bye bye Idol (next Year)
Its official this will be Simon Cowell's last year on American Idol so he won't make it to the 10th season next year. Don't cry too much though we will still get to see Simon on his new show X-Factor which is coming to FOX in the fall of 2011 (which is next year wow). Whats cool about this show is the age limits are like from 14 to 100+ and groups can also audition. Looks like its time to spiff up the old vocal chords and find myself an audition location ha ha...seriously who knows we'll check it out.
Hope your weekend was fab and your week is gonna go great. That's all for Monday be back tomorrow with another ccccool (but not cold) song!
~Vincent
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Sunday's Featured Song- "2nd Avenue"
On Sunday's we'll be taking a look at a great love song from years gone by. "2nd Avenue" by Tim Moore sings of a love lost in such a way you really connect with his emotions when he first wrote and sang it. Art Garfunkle also covered this song around the same time (1974) but Tim's version is by far my favorite. Tim was also a successful songwriter (wrote for Bay City Rollers and others) and session musician. Please take a listen to "2nd Avenue" on Viddler.com and see what you think at:
"2nd Avenue" by Tim Moore
Jay Leno headed back to 11:30 PM
Well despite the fact that Jay was in the 10 PM spot I never did get around to seeing him more although I swore I would. Well just one month left as Jay will head back to 11:35 starting the week of the Winter Olympics in February. Maybe I'll still have a chance then to perform on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno someday ha ha :)
Hope your weekend was cool (and not too cold)....this week looks to warm up a bit. Look for more updates to LoveSongs.com this week plus the full Borders store tour itinerary for Saturday February 13th. Will be back on Monday with another great love song!
~Vincent
On Sunday's we'll be taking a look at a great love song from years gone by. "2nd Avenue" by Tim Moore sings of a love lost in such a way you really connect with his emotions when he first wrote and sang it. Art Garfunkle also covered this song around the same time (1974) but Tim's version is by far my favorite. Tim was also a successful songwriter (wrote for Bay City Rollers and others) and session musician. Please take a listen to "2nd Avenue" on Viddler.com and see what you think at:
"2nd Avenue" by Tim Moore
Jay Leno headed back to 11:30 PM
Well despite the fact that Jay was in the 10 PM spot I never did get around to seeing him more although I swore I would. Well just one month left as Jay will head back to 11:35 starting the week of the Winter Olympics in February. Maybe I'll still have a chance then to perform on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno someday ha ha :)
Hope your weekend was cool (and not too cold)....this week looks to warm up a bit. Look for more updates to LoveSongs.com this week plus the full Borders store tour itinerary for Saturday February 13th. Will be back on Monday with another great love song!
~Vincent
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Song of the Day - "Are You There Yet"
Each day we're featuring a different love song, some by famous artists and others by the not so famous. It could be a brand new song, a classic or a tune from the not too distant past. We'll run the gamut from pop, country and into R&B with the only criterion that the song must have a great hook and move me (not a across the room but inside :)). As part of this, each Saturday we're gonna feaure a song by an unknown artist or songwriter that really deserves attention.
Today's featured song is called "Are You There Yet" written by Mark Oates, Donna Aylor, and Ande Rasmussen and sung by Dave Brooks. I was first introduced to this incredibly beautiful ballad by Ande back when MP3.com was in its heyday. When you listen to "Are You There Yet" you'll be transported to an amazing place...the song is a treat both lyrically and musically...any song that starts with "I have Chocolate strawberries..." and delivers a hook that strong deserves to be heard by the masses. It also goes without saying that the vocalist Dave Brooks delivers a performance that compares with any major label talent bar none. To see what I mean take a listen to "Are You There Yet" on the SongRamp link at:
"Are You There Yet" - SongRamp
You can hear more of Ande's songs at http://songramp.com/ande
Music Sales climbed in 2009 - Well Sort of
It looks like the # of CDs/Singles sold in 2009 increased 2% up to 1.5 Billion units. Thats the good news. However since a bigger share of the items sold are digital singles (and not albums) the revenue for the music industry is now down below $ 10 billion from its one time peak of $ 15 billion. For more info on this trend and to see what sold big in 2009 (Lady Gaga 15 million downloads sold) check out this Chicago Tribune article at
Best Selling Music of 2009, Decade
Hope your having a great weekend and keeeeeping warm. Stop back tomorrow for a great love song from days gone by that didn't get as much attention as it should have.
~Vincent
Each day we're featuring a different love song, some by famous artists and others by the not so famous. It could be a brand new song, a classic or a tune from the not too distant past. We'll run the gamut from pop, country and into R&B with the only criterion that the song must have a great hook and move me (not a across the room but inside :)). As part of this, each Saturday we're gonna feaure a song by an unknown artist or songwriter that really deserves attention.
Today's featured song is called "Are You There Yet" written by Mark Oates, Donna Aylor, and Ande Rasmussen and sung by Dave Brooks. I was first introduced to this incredibly beautiful ballad by Ande back when MP3.com was in its heyday. When you listen to "Are You There Yet" you'll be transported to an amazing place...the song is a treat both lyrically and musically...any song that starts with "I have Chocolate strawberries..." and delivers a hook that strong deserves to be heard by the masses. It also goes without saying that the vocalist Dave Brooks delivers a performance that compares with any major label talent bar none. To see what I mean take a listen to "Are You There Yet" on the SongRamp link at:
"Are You There Yet" - SongRamp
You can hear more of Ande's songs at http://songramp.com/ande
Music Sales climbed in 2009 - Well Sort of
It looks like the # of CDs/Singles sold in 2009 increased 2% up to 1.5 Billion units. Thats the good news. However since a bigger share of the items sold are digital singles (and not albums) the revenue for the music industry is now down below $ 10 billion from its one time peak of $ 15 billion. For more info on this trend and to see what sold big in 2009 (Lady Gaga 15 million downloads sold) check out this Chicago Tribune article at
Best Selling Music of 2009, Decade
Hope your having a great weekend and keeeeeping warm. Stop back tomorrow for a great love song from days gone by that didn't get as much attention as it should have.
~Vincent
Friday, January 8, 2010
Friday Nite - Song of the Day "1, 2, 3, 4 (I Love You)"
The Plain White T's are most known for their #1 hit "Hey There Delilah" but I'm an even bigger fan of the acoustic ditty called "1, 2, 3, 4" and subtitled "I Love You". This song draws you in at the very beginning and when the chorus kicks in you are absolutely sold. I know this tune came out last year its still getting lots of play on AC Radio after peaking at #34 on the Billboard pop chart. Take a listen and see if your head doesn't start boppin' back and forth -
"1,2,3,4" (I Love You) - YouTube
American Idol back next week - Paula's out and Ellen's in
American Idol roars back into TV land next week - Season 9 says goodbye to Paula (we will miss her antics and heartfelt compassion) and hello to Ellen (bring on the standup comments its gonna be fun lookout Simon :)). We'll be following this season closely and hoping for a brighter star or two this year. Kris Allen and Adam Lambert from Season 8 are fine vocalists but unless the song selection for the singles released gets better I don't think they are going to be in the spotlight very long. Both have yet to sell 1/2 million CDs copies of their debut, which considering we just past the holiday shopping period they are a long shot to reach a million copies. That will put them in the company of Taylor Hicks whose quirkiness quickly faded into the blues-rock scene. Well tune in this Tuesday on FOX and we'll see how the hopeful's matchup!
Have a great start to your weekand and we'll be back tomorrow with another cool tune!
p.s. and stay warm...i hear its 30 degrees in Florida and 50 below wind chill in Minnesota..I do believe global warming is very real but it does take a slight break sometimes :)
~Vincent
The Plain White T's are most known for their #1 hit "Hey There Delilah" but I'm an even bigger fan of the acoustic ditty called "1, 2, 3, 4" and subtitled "I Love You". This song draws you in at the very beginning and when the chorus kicks in you are absolutely sold. I know this tune came out last year its still getting lots of play on AC Radio after peaking at #34 on the Billboard pop chart. Take a listen and see if your head doesn't start boppin' back and forth -
"1,2,3,4" (I Love You) - YouTube
American Idol back next week - Paula's out and Ellen's in
American Idol roars back into TV land next week - Season 9 says goodbye to Paula (we will miss her antics and heartfelt compassion) and hello to Ellen (bring on the standup comments its gonna be fun lookout Simon :)). We'll be following this season closely and hoping for a brighter star or two this year. Kris Allen and Adam Lambert from Season 8 are fine vocalists but unless the song selection for the singles released gets better I don't think they are going to be in the spotlight very long. Both have yet to sell 1/2 million CDs copies of their debut, which considering we just past the holiday shopping period they are a long shot to reach a million copies. That will put them in the company of Taylor Hicks whose quirkiness quickly faded into the blues-rock scene. Well tune in this Tuesday on FOX and we'll see how the hopeful's matchup!
Have a great start to your weekand and we'll be back tomorrow with another cool tune!
p.s. and stay warm...i hear its 30 degrees in Florida and 50 below wind chill in Minnesota..I do believe global warming is very real but it does take a slight break sometimes :)
~Vincent
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Thursday's Tune - "According to You"
I'm starting to think POP Music is beginning to make a comeback...how amazing and awesome would that be!! One cool new pop-rockin' tune is a song called "According to You" by new artist Orianthi. She first jammed on stage with Carlos Santana at age 18 and recently was the guitarist on Michael Jacksons tour which unfortunately never left the practice arena. Definitely she has something going on check out the tune on Youtube below:
"According to You" - YouTube
LALA LA LA Music
Some of you may already be familiar with LALA (ie. LaLa.com) where you can listen to almost any song for free (at least once :)). If you want to listen to the same song again (and again and again) you pay just 10 cents once and then you can listen it from your Lala account anywhere. Recently ITunes bought Lala and will be using it so you can listen to ITunes samples online without using the ITunes player. Hopefully just maybe we'll also see some price lowering over time from ITunes for an MP3 file too. Will be interesting to see where how it develops....stay tuned! (no pun intended :))
Have a great nite and come on back Friday to check out another cool tune and more updates!
~Vincent
I'm starting to think POP Music is beginning to make a comeback...how amazing and awesome would that be!! One cool new pop-rockin' tune is a song called "According to You" by new artist Orianthi. She first jammed on stage with Carlos Santana at age 18 and recently was the guitarist on Michael Jacksons tour which unfortunately never left the practice arena. Definitely she has something going on check out the tune on Youtube below:
"According to You" - YouTube
LALA LA LA Music
Some of you may already be familiar with LALA (ie. LaLa.com) where you can listen to almost any song for free (at least once :)). If you want to listen to the same song again (and again and again) you pay just 10 cents once and then you can listen it from your Lala account anywhere. Recently ITunes bought Lala and will be using it so you can listen to ITunes samples online without using the ITunes player. Hopefully just maybe we'll also see some price lowering over time from ITunes for an MP3 file too. Will be interesting to see where how it develops....stay tuned! (no pun intended :))
Have a great nite and come on back Friday to check out another cool tune and more updates!
~Vincent
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Wednesday Jan 6th - Song of the Day - "Need You Now"
Today is Wednesday and I'm getting really hooked on the song "Need You Now" by new country group Lady Antebellum. I really thought Lady was a girl singer but turns out its a trio of vocalists from Nashville who debutted as guest vocalists on Jim Brickmans "Never Alone" in 2007. The song starts out a little slow but when you hear the chorus you will be mesmerized by the medley. Take a listen to it here and see if you don't agree:
"Need You Now" - YouTube
Each day I'll be featuring one of my favorite love songs..anything with a great melody, feel or rhythm or something that just makes me melt (hey I'm a guy and I can still melt ha ha).
In other news we've now got 7 Borders stores confirmed for our Whirlwind Valentines Tour on Sat February 13th in the Philadelphia area. This Friday we'll list all the confirmed locations and times for those local to the area.
That's all for tttttoday..be back tomorrow with another song and more fun!
~Vincent
Today is Wednesday and I'm getting really hooked on the song "Need You Now" by new country group Lady Antebellum. I really thought Lady was a girl singer but turns out its a trio of vocalists from Nashville who debutted as guest vocalists on Jim Brickmans "Never Alone" in 2007. The song starts out a little slow but when you hear the chorus you will be mesmerized by the medley. Take a listen to it here and see if you don't agree:
"Need You Now" - YouTube
Each day I'll be featuring one of my favorite love songs..anything with a great melody, feel or rhythm or something that just makes me melt (hey I'm a guy and I can still melt ha ha).
In other news we've now got 7 Borders stores confirmed for our Whirlwind Valentines Tour on Sat February 13th in the Philadelphia area. This Friday we'll list all the confirmed locations and times for those local to the area.
That's all for tttttoday..be back tomorrow with another song and more fun!
~Vincent
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Favorite Song of the Day - "Heaven Can Wait"
Starting today I'm gonna include my favorite new song of the day in our daily post. It might be a popular artist or someone you've never heard of. What it will always be is a great and sometimes incredible pop song...ballads, uptempo, pop, country, R&B anything with a great melody and hook. I don't know about you but I'm always excited to hear a great song..there are so many so so songs being played on the radio/TV and its nice to know some great ones still can be heard.
I was driving home today and heard "Heaven Can Wait" for the first time by We The Kings on the radio (yes good old Top 40 radio) WSTW 93.7 out of Wilmington, DE. Great uptempo pop song with nice message (and a love song too!). Take a listen below and see if you don't agree its pretty cool.
Heaven Can Wait - YouTube
Stop back tomorrow for another great song and some music news!
~Vincent
Starting today I'm gonna include my favorite new song of the day in our daily post. It might be a popular artist or someone you've never heard of. What it will always be is a great and sometimes incredible pop song...ballads, uptempo, pop, country, R&B anything with a great melody and hook. I don't know about you but I'm always excited to hear a great song..there are so many so so songs being played on the radio/TV and its nice to know some great ones still can be heard.
I was driving home today and heard "Heaven Can Wait" for the first time by We The Kings on the radio (yes good old Top 40 radio) WSTW 93.7 out of Wilmington, DE. Great uptempo pop song with nice message (and a love song too!). Take a listen below and see if you don't agree its pretty cool.
Heaven Can Wait - YouTube
Stop back tomorrow for another great song and some music news!
~Vincent
Monday, January 4, 2010
Whirlwind Valentines Tour - 10 Borders Stores in one Day!
I'm heading down the path of madness once again. On Saturday February 13th, I planning to perform at 10 different Borders Bookstores in a single day - all to help celebrate Valentines day in the City of Brotherly Love (we need a little love after that Eagles game yesterday :)).
This will be my 3rd crazy Valentines event....few years back I performed 100 shows in the 45 days from New Years to Valentines ("6 Weeks to Valentines" Tour) and a few years before that performed at 8 different Barnes and Noble Stores in a single day (the original "Whirlwind Valentines" tour).
Well I figured I had to break my old record of 8 shows/stores in a single day so we're going for 10 and we'll see if I have a voice left when its all over. Stop back later this week for more info on what I'll be playing and a full intinerary. Until then have a great day/night wherever you are and Happy New Years 2010 we finally made it!!
~Vincent
I'm heading down the path of madness once again. On Saturday February 13th, I planning to perform at 10 different Borders Bookstores in a single day - all to help celebrate Valentines day in the City of Brotherly Love (we need a little love after that Eagles game yesterday :)).
This will be my 3rd crazy Valentines event....few years back I performed 100 shows in the 45 days from New Years to Valentines ("6 Weeks to Valentines" Tour) and a few years before that performed at 8 different Barnes and Noble Stores in a single day (the original "Whirlwind Valentines" tour).
Well I figured I had to break my old record of 8 shows/stores in a single day so we're going for 10 and we'll see if I have a voice left when its all over. Stop back later this week for more info on what I'll be playing and a full intinerary. Until then have a great day/night wherever you are and Happy New Years 2010 we finally made it!!
~Vincent
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