Ooops, not THAT kind of blog *wink*

Now, I’ve read a myriad.. a true myriad (let’s see how many times I can say myriad in one place) of reviews, opinions, tweets, the like of what people thought of the Grammy’s and they all say the same thing essentially. You ready?

Ok.. hold onto your hats..

IT.

SUCKED.

Nicky Minaj yada ayada, Chris Brown, yada yada, Foster the People, WHAT? They’re one hit wonders.. The BEACH BOYS?? Seriously?? (ok, that was my personal view of the BBs I mean those dudes are just way too old and Brian Wilson looks like he is in a permanent fog. And honestly again, I was REALLY at the VERY least looking forward to maaaaybe an appearance by Uncle Jesse aka John Stamos somewheeeere playing bongos. If you young ones don’t know who I’m referring to, google it and do it soon before Google stores your search and sends you links to John Stamos fan sites everywhere.) The Grammys had no one else to add? No tributes to Don Cornelius, or Gil Scott Heron (minus the short blurb from Questlove and Common respectfully)? Ok people. Here is what you need to remember about the Grammys…

They, much like the honey badger, are just craaaazeeee.

See friends, romans, country people, lovers, lusters, and whoever decides to read this.. the Grammys are NOT repeat are NOT a real indication on talent for the most part. I say most, not at all, but most. There are a few standouts though. The same standouts that happen every year. Of course you know I’m about to name them right? I wouldn’t just type standouts and then not even explain what I mean. That’s just plain mean and unlike the subject of Taylor Swift’s song, I am NOT going to be mean.

There are always standouts like Adele (wuvvv her) that should be awarded I reckon for saving the industry from total destruction.. at least for a year. This happens every year. Michael Jackson, Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill, Bonnie Rait, Amy Winehouse, etc.. all people who were angels for the music industry and were rewarded for their merits. So if someone is nominated numerous times, chances are, they will receive something. And by numerous, I mean at least say 4 times. They will end up being the critical darlings of the night. Last year it was Lady Antebellum. This year, Adele. It happens. It’s well deserved for the most part. I have to say though, I didn’t expect her to sweep all THREE of the big ones – Album of the Year, Record of the Year (wait, aren’t they the same thing?), and Song of the Year. I mean, when they say they really LOOOVED Adele, they weren’t playing. Usually the Grammys throw in a wrench in one of those categories. But this time, the queen ruled. All hail.

The Grammys always love british people too as made evident by Adele. If you are british, they are ALLLL over you like white on rice. If you are nominated, you are pretty much guaranteed a Grammy. Ask Coldplay, Paul McCartney, etc. Being british I think is a key part of the winning Grammy equation. I love that folks can come over from the other side of the pond and completely clean up here with major awards (Oscars, Critics Choice, etc) but we as Americans can’t really make it over there in entertainment, for the most part, which goes to my theory that everyone overseas wants to be American anyway.. but again. That’s for another blog.

There are always those awards given to people where my reaction is “WHO DA BUTT IS THAT?” Last year it was Esperanza whatever her name is because I can’t pronounce it  nor will I try to trouble myself in doing so. This year, it was Bon Iver. Now luckily for me, I know who he is. However, and here is the funny.. he isn’t NEW. To be nominated for Best New Artist, I would THINK the word “New” means that no one has really heard of them before. But for Bonny Boy it seems as though after putting out a previous full length, and an EP, he is still considered “New.” I guess that means the Grammy higher ups had been living under a rock for a few years and think they discovered him. Same thing could be said for Shelby Lynne though. She won some years back as BNA, and she released a sleeeew of country albums before the “I Am” album.

If you watch the Grammys, be prepared for old people. The, no reason to be on the stage other than “to look at their receding hairlines and relive their youth” old people. The Grammys love the supposed grey haired geezers. And last night was NO exception. Bruce, Paul, Stevie, Tony, and ugh, Paul again. All proof that the older folks are going to continue to pretend they are 2o something, and the award show will always give in. It’s an easy ratings grabber and those who continue to live in the past musically can stay in the forefront, while we fans remember them and reminisce way back when, before the cracked voices, gruff huff and puff ranges and all. A win win for all.

Every year there is hate towards this award show. Every year. I don’t know what people really expect. The Grammys try to recognize different people, even more than once but it all boils down to the ones who WILL win beating the ones who SHOULD win. It never fails. So why complain about it? But I look at it as extreme comic relief. Because it always proves the point that more deserving bands, real indie bands, are overlooked for the slick (Bruno Mars), the polished, the acrobatic (in the case of Chris Brown), the outlandish (Nicky Micraycray), and the one hit wonders (Foster the People). It’s not meant for real music 90 percent of the time (with the exception of Adele. Come on.. show the woman some respect).. It’s the ridiculous, the over the top, the head scratchers, the questionable that get these puppies. But you and I.. the true music fanatics, know the real deal on bands. And it will always be our little secret. So relax, and enjoy the ride, and laugh at it.

P.S. – Just one thing. Remember Whitney Houston for the good, not the bad.. I will try to do the same. TRY. She influenced so many..

Don Cornelius, the creator behind Soul Train, is dead at 75.

Well goddamn it..

I, like many other people, LOVED and grew up with the train of soul every Saturday. For me, it came on at noon on various syndicated channels, depending on which season and which ‘fro Don had. It was the highlight of my Saturday mornings right after the Smurfs and Rubix the amazing cube cartoon (oh look it up, it really WAS a cartoon). I sat in my bedroom and watched Don and his microphone introduce everyone from LeVert, to New Edition, DeBarge, Whodini (i think it was Whodini), Stephanie Mills, you know, all the r&b greats of the 80s to the newer acts in the 90s (TLC, Pebbles, BoyzIIMen, etc). It was BET before BET was BET. For those of you living under a rock, BET stands for Black Entertainment Television. For me, Soul Train was my Black Entertainment Television for an hour. Don brought so many families together to watch all of these entertainers who under any other circumstances wouldn’t be seen on tv. It was remarkable. It was truly an original.

Not only did Soul Train bring to light r&b and funk artists into the mainstream of television and media coverage, it was also good to see Black commercials promoting products that were geared to us. It was yet another rare feat. As I type this, the melodic phrase of “faashion faaaaaair”  that included Black Sheen products is on repeat in my head. Again, all part of Don’s master plan to get Black artists up and out there. I totally respect his master mind. It was a force to be reckoned with.. As the years went on, and the style of r&b music changed, Don was still there, going with the flow, and the ‘fro a little bit smaller.. And who could forget the soul train line. I learned how to do the “robot” from watching folks dance in the soul train line. And a lot of moves my parents know nothing about to this day, sssssssshhhhhh..

So here’s to you Don. For your courage, your determination to get exposure, your love, your passion and your dedication. I hope you’re in a better place. Thanks for all the love, and for taking a chance.. Television was never the same. And you’re one of the reasons..

Love, Peace, and… SOUL.

Good times.

Happy new year music fanatics. Here for you all.. hot off the computer battery, is a new podcast. It’s a bit of a whopper so make sure you get all the errands down. Unplug the phone, turn off the cell and enjoy. As usual it’s random, like the thoughts in my head. And don’t complain if you get a tune or two stuck in your head. Wear it like a badge of honor..and then share with your friends so THEY can get the song stuck in their heads as well.

http://www.mediafire.com/?whd9ol173x81ciw

Here’s the list:

Click the pic for a bigger version.

1. Sheila Easton – Strut

2. Graffiti 6 - Stare Into The Sun

3. Public Enemy - Bring The Noise

4. SMOOVE & TURRELL - Money

5. White Rabbits -  Midnight And I

6. Billy Boy on Poison - Drive Me Insane

7. Bell Biv DeVoe WBBD - B.B.D. (I Thought It Was Me)? (DJ Mo Grind Time)

8. Oasis - Don’t Go Away

9.  Tears For Fears - Everybody Wants To Rule The World

10. Scala & Kolacny Brothers - Smells Like Teen Spirit

11.Teddybears feat. Cee Lo & B52′s - Cho Cha

12. Moka Only  - Moonburn

13. Cobra Starship - Middle Finger 3:32

14. Pink - Raise Your Glass

15.  Beth Ditto - I Wrote The Book – Original Mix

16.  Pantera -  Cowboys From Hell [Live]

17. Junior Boys - Parallel Lines

18. Fitz & the Tantrums - Don’t Gotta Work It Out

19. Antietam - Really the Blues

20. SebastiAn - Arabest

21. Lisa Stansfield - Just To Keep You Satisfied

22. Phil Collins - In the Air Tonight (Cosmo Black Remix)

23. OK Go - WTF?

24. Anthony Green - Can’t Be Satisfied (feat. Ida Maria)

PS.. I made a small boo boo with a song title.. actually it is the right song title in my rambles, just the wrong artist. Chaka Khan, my apologies, but Kanye’s sample of Through the Fire was one of the best samples of all time.. even if he did rename his track “Through the Wire..” Ok. Sleep time begins.. now..

1. Watch the Throne – Jay-Z/Kanye West

You know when I read that these two were going to record an album together I thought, “well, there is something I didn’t expect.” The two powers in rap, Jay-Z and Kanye West, together. In one studio. I can’t even imagine how great this will be – in rhyme delivery. In production. In everything.

Boy was I wrong.

This album is just an album of fluff. It’s an album of braggadocio and quite frankly I think it was put together just because.. they have nothing better else to do. They can do anything at this point and the fans, like myself, will generally eat it up. But in the end, all it did was just show me and others who aren’t so fortunate, how to feel bad for not having the cars, the money, the homes, the private jets, the fur coats, the last minute purchases, the haters who are jealous, yada yada yada.. Honestly guys, I would have expected better from you two. It seemed more like how can one outbrag on the other. We all know that in rap music, you MUST have some bravado. You must have high esteem in order to be taken seriously as an artist. However there’s a difference between trying to illustrate that point, and just bragging for the sake of bragging. I won’t even list the worst songs. The whole album was a stinker. The ONLY saving grace, was the production. Maybe if Kanye had just stuck with the production aspect and not taken on the lyrical delivery, maaaaaybe the album could have been saved from my list. Alas.. no.

2. Beyonce’ – 4

This might seem like a slam towards the royal couple of Hip-Hop. But this album was just weird. The songwriting was just horrible. She shouts. I remember when she used to sing. But she SHOUTS.. specifically on “I Care”, “Rather Die Young,” among others. My goodness lady. We get it. You can sing circles around folks but the shouting has to go. The production is good. The beats are good. But the singing is just way too over the top. There’s a line in “Best Thing I Ever Had” that says “It sucks to be you right now”.. really Beyonce? That’s a real lyric? Really? What happened to your songwriting? Is this the best you can do? I love you. I do. I really do. I’ve been a fan since Destiny’s Child. But at some point lady you have to take a break. Go back to basics. Now, that being said, “Love on Top”.. that’s one of two keeepers. Very upbeat. Very dance-y. I think everyone can rock this one.  The tune “End of Time” could easily be a Destiny’s Child outtake. Same drum beat. But still a keeper. But alas, two songs don’t save an album.

Now, that is not to say I’m not a fan of any of these artists. Because I am. And I probably always will be. However sometimes taking a loooooong break and returning to form is a good thing. Not one of them has anything to prove anymore. They can afford the rest. Maybe their next conquests will be better than these.

30. Niki and the Dove – The Drummer

While this is just an EP it packs quite a wallop truth be told. Swedes do it best it seems and the trio provides a loud pulsating sound that grabs onto you and puts you in a trance and throws in a little r&b for gits and shiggles. You don’t know which way to go all you know is you want them to lead the dance way.

Key Tracks – The Drummer, Last Night

29. Pack A.D. – Unpersons

This album really blew me away. With a combination of rock and blues, they are definitely the quinticential garage band’s garage band. You can easily hear The White Stripe’s influence, as well as Flat Duo Jets with the growls and and the hollers. What else do you do when the relationship goes down the drain? Sing the pain away and get your growl on. Seek your revenge. Call the person out. Make the rock loud. And they did all of the above. You break up with someone? Put this album on. I guarantee you will feel better.

Key Tracks – Haunt You, Rid of Me, Seasick

28. Blood Oranges – Coastal Grooves

I don’t know much about Dev Hynes other than he loves rhythmic melodies and is completely influenced by 80s dance and new wave. It’s got great guitar lines and his voice is strong. It’s a cd that can be played after winding down after clubbing. It can be played in your car, or even at a party. Dev does most of the guitar strumming and a wonderful player he is. The music is clean and fun. And sometimes after the day is done, that’s all we need, something fun.

Key Tracks – Champagne Coast, Instantly Blank (The Goodness), I’m Sorry We Lied

27. Luke Bryan – Tailgates and Tanlines

While I’m not a big fan of country, there is usually an artist in the country department that makes the list for me. Luke Bryan, in addition to being easy on the eyes, has concocted a perfect pop country album. There is nothing particularly earth shattering about this album, but what he does he does well, just providing melodic country music that sticks with you and gets the feet tapping.

Key Tracks – Country Girl (Shake it For me), I Don’t Want This Night to End, Harvest Time

26. Mint Julip – Save Your Season

This album is difficult to discuss. The music is incredibly haunting. And incredibly mismatched. One minute you want to dance on the table and the next you want to..well.. hug someone followed by a “I love you man.” It’s just a great sounding record. Just listen for yourself.

Key Tracks – Days Go By, Save Your Season, Letting Go

25. The Kooks – Junk of the Heart

This is anything but junk. It’s kind of different from their previous albums. It sounds a bit more mainstream, but that’s not a bad thing at all. They’re not reinventing the wheel, they just want to make a good album you can listen to again and again. So far, no complaints here.

Key Tracks – Mr. Nice Guy, Taking Pictures of You, Is It Me

24. Foster the People – Torches

Ok, Pumped Up Kicks aside, this is an EXCELLENT record. Absolutely. It’s upbeat. It’s quirky, and gets my toes tapping. I mean, what else do you need? And it’s got piano. They make piano sound cool. Heck yeah!

Key Tracks – I Would Do Anything for You, Don’t Stop, Miss You

23. Mister Heavenly – Out of Love

Melodic harmonies, hard rock, and yet kinda sounds like it could be played in the 50s. I even detect a wee bit of the rockabilly. I was thoroughly surprised. The band is made up of members of Modest Mouse, the Shins, Man Man, and Unicorns. I guess with that cosmic slop, I should have known it was going to be good.

Key Tracks – Harm You, Charlyne, Doom Wop

22. Penguin Prison – Penguin Prison

Just makes me wanna dance dance dance. For reals. The new wave pays a visit. Synths, done in the right way, can really make an album stellar. And this.. was done in the right way.

Key Tracks – Don’t Fuck with My Money, Something I’m Not, Pinocchio

21. The Kills – Blood Pressures

Listening to this band makes me OWN blood pressure go up. It’s very loud, dark, and dirty. Just plain dirty.. with a hint of blues. This duo never disappoints. I just wish it was longer. Just an excellent album. I leave it with my jaw to the floor.

Key Tracks – The whole damn thing.

20. Zola Jesus – Conatus

Zola makes the best choir in the world sound miniscule in comparison. Her voice is just overwhelmingly loud. It’s beautiful music. Not music to be heard everyday, but she is definitely definitely quite the treat to listen to. Her music is atmospheric, etheral, and romantic. My dream? To put her in the studio with Florence and the Machine. Can you IMAGINE what will happen?

Key Tracks – Vessel, In Your Nature, Swords

19. Rihanna – Talk That Talk

Aaaah yes. RiRi. She has returned. Again, with another set of r&b and dance hits. They hit harder with every album. On this one she definitely explores the club scene a little more than previous efforts as well as the sexual bravado… And her voice fits perfectly with the beats. She’s come a long way from her first album and I look forward to hearing where she takes her music next. “Drunk on Love” has been on repeat on my pod for days.

Key Tracks – Where Have You Been, We Found Love, Drunk on Love, Roc Me Out

18. The Chain Gang of 1974 – Wayward Fire

I’m kinda an 80s junkie, even though I remember the 90s more vividly from beginning to end. This album could easily have been played in heavy rotation in the 80s. It’s a great combination of new wave, rock, and guitars that made the 80s what it was. Plus, it’s a fantastic title for a band no? Chain Gang of 1974. I mean, who DOESN’T love this name??

Key Tracks – Devil is a Lady, Heartbreakin’ Scream, Matter of Time

17. Childish Gambino – Camp

Donald Glover, aka Childish Gambino, is a nerd. And he illustrates that in this album. He illustrates how he grew up, fitting in a world that didn’t necessarily accept him because he wasn’t the stereotypical Black person one sees on tv or the media or in music. He loves his parents, he realizes how lucky he is, and he’s funny. I can kinda relate to that;-) It’s funny, it’s refreshing, and I like it. I hope he sticks around for a long time.

Key Tracks – Bonfire, LES, You See Me

16. Designer Drugs – Hardcore/Softcore

SO. LOUD. I CAN. BARELY. HEAR. MYSELF. DO. ANYTHING. MUCH. LESS. TYPE!!

Key Tracks – Leather Gang, Crazy for You, Riot

15. St. Vincent – Strange Mercy

The Shredding Queen on this one… she is an excellent guitarist. It’s a break up record. Or the picking up the pieces after breaking up with someone. It’s quite quirky. It’s beautiful. It’s perfect. Thank you Annie. I could go on and on about this, but I won’t. It’s good. It’s very very good.

Key Tracks – Cruel, Cheerleader, Champagne Year

14. Antigone Rising – 23 Red

The ladies from Long Island, NY, have returned with a very upbeat and incredibly catchy collection of songs of rock and a twang of country. It’s a feel good album that was perfect for the summer whether relaxing at the beach, driving with friends, or doing your best air guitar and air drumming in your living room. The quartet possesses high energy, beautiful melodies, and heartfelt songwriting. It’s a treasure and a must have..

Key Tracks – No Remedy, Everywhere is Home, You Say You Want to Leave (Circles), Gracefully

13. Washed Out – Within and Without

The man is Earnest Green. The album? Beautifully textured and layered. It leaves you with a push and pull between summer lounging and dancing.

Key Tracks – Eyes Be Closed, Far Away, Within and Without, Call it Off

12. Camo and Crooked – Cross the Line

If you like drum and bass, and needle drops, this one is for you. The end:-) Thank me later.

Key Tracks – Funk You, Make the Call, Portal

11. Lisa Bianco – Momentum

The long awaited second cd was worth the wait. The crunchy guitars make you want to jump up and slap yourself, your mom, and the little dog that keeps yapping. She’s loud, bold, and unapologetic. From beginning to the end of this record, you are taken on an emotional ride of hope, love, frustration, and satisfaction. Big thumbs up from me.

Key Tracks – Breakin’, Erase You, Big City Lights, Low

10. Lady Gaga – Born this Way

The Ga doesn’t disappoint on her second full length masterpiece. She returns proving (as if there was any real doubt) that she has the chops, and the right production team behind her to carry her voice into the world. I kinda dig it. More power to her.

Key Tracks – Government Hooker, Marry the Night, Heavy Metal Lover

9. Wild Flag – Wild Flag

This is not a superteam. It’s a combo of great musicians from Helium, the Minders, and Sleater-Kinney, who happen to be friends. They’re in your face, they’re loud, they are awesome. Period. If you listen to Wild Flag, you are left twitching on the floor wanting more of the wails and crunchy sounds of guitarists Mary Timony and Carrie Brownstein. One word to describe it? Incredible.

Key Tracks – Romance, Glass Tambourine, Electric Band

8. The Black Keys – El Camino

The Ohio boys return again for a new album. It mixes garage rock, soul, and a bit more rock edged than Brothers. It’s fast paced and if anyone can make the loud, it’s these two. Dan’s guitar wailing just makes it even MORE worthwhile.

Key Tracks – the whole damn album

7. Swedish House Mafia – Until One

Whaaaat? I can’t hear you!! That is what I usually say when I listen to this album because the beats are so loud and addictive it’s hard to concentrate. The whole album is just wonderful from beginning to end. I turn up the volume and twitch again with glee. The synths make this album and the mix is just perfect. All hail the new Kings!

Key Tracks – the whole album, especially In the Air

6. M83 – Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming

It’s gorgeous, it’s lush it’s 80s revisited just on a grander dance scale. It’s a great gem to the ears.

Key Tracks – Intro, Midnight City, Claudia Lewis, Year One, One UFO

5. Mute Math – Odd Soul

Cheesus Crust I love this album. It’s loud, unapologetic, rocky, melodic.. the adjectives can go on and on. They really upped the ante with this album. And it shows. The production is sleek in some  areas and distorted in others. But yet it completely works. This could easily have been played in the 70s and they could have easily opened for Led Zep in LZ’s heyday The lead singer, Paul Meany, shouts like he found himself some religion and wants to share. It’s just a beautiful work of art to dance to. Get on the good foot, and get this album.

Key Tracks – Aliens, Odd Soul, Equals, Pyrtania

4. Betty Wright w. the Roots – Betty Wright: The Movie

Betty returns from a ten year hiatus with a wonderful r&b album with the Roots in tow. The production is completely old school for the most part, and there is nothing wrong with a little old school. Her voice hasn’t skipped a beat. While there are a few guest stars on the cd (Lil Wayne and Joss Stone), Wright is still in control, singing about happiness, heartbreak, and maturity. R&B singers of today should take a page from Betty’s book. They could learn a thing or two.

Key Tracks – Whisper in the Wind, Grapes on a Vine, So Long, So Wrong, In the Middle of the Game

3. Florence and the Machine – Ceremonials

Well, Florence and the gang returns. Her vocals are as bold as ever, accompanied by organs and drums. You get the feeling that you are listening to hymnals but you only WISH church hymns were as exciting as Florence makes them sound.  She’s empowering, elegant, and at times completely melancholy and dramatic. But all the while ALWAYS entertaining. And she’s only 24.

Key Tracks – Shake it Out, What the Water Gave Me, Breaking Down, Seven Devils

2. Lupe Fiasco – Lasers

For a man who didn’t want this album to be released due to record company interference, this was a stellar set. Lupe writes about triumph over tragedy, fighting for what is yours, problems within inner cities, and the government, while maintaining his own sanity and dealing with his place in life and in music. It is quite a feat to take on, and Lupe does it tremendously well. This was quite the stand out, in a year where rap music was in major yawnapalooza. Thank you Lupe, thank you.

Key Tracks – Words I Never Said, Till I Get There, The Show Goes On, Break the Chain, All Black Everything (a particular gem, where he creates a fantasy of what ifs..)

1. TIE. Friendly Fires – Pala; Adele – 21

Before you say it, yeah I have a tie for #1. I love these albums equally. Friendly Fires saved my summer with an upbeat, dancey, r&b influenced collection of songs that got the butt shaking and  the brush in my hand doubled as the best mic in the world to sing along to their music. It is the best pop dance album this year hands down. And Adele, well.. when you can convey heartbreak as powerful and emotional as Adele can, you are most definitely.. winning. Her voice is just stunning, absolutely stunning and tugs at the heart strings like nothing else I’ve heard this year. This was her year, as it should have been. Perfect mix of soul, emotion, and pop. FF and Adele delivered in two different ways, but equally just as effective, to me anyways.

Key Tracks – Friendly Fires’ Pala: Show Me Lights, Hurting, Pala, Live Those Days Tonight, Blue Cassette

Adele’s 21: Rollin’ in the Deep, Someone Like You, Rumour Has It, Set Fire to the Rain, Take it All, I’ll be Wating

Aaand a little round of applause for the ones who JUST missed my list but deserve a serious shout out:

Fucked Up – David Comes to Life

Feist – Metals

DJ Shadow – The Less  You Know, the Better

The Roots – Undun

Yuck. Yes there is a band called Yuck. And they’re not yuck. not in the least.

Kelly Clarkson – Stronger. Gotta love the pop. The sweet sweet pop. #TeamClarkson

Whew. That was a LOT of music to narrow down to 30 choices. My ears hurt. My brain hurts. But if next year is anything like this year, then I’m definitely looking forward to it. I’m going to have some wine and listen to these albums again.

Rock on everyone. Happy new year.

Sorry I’ve been a bit out of the loop with blogs as of late. I have had a lot of things to deal with in the past month. But I shall return shortly with a new set of reviews, including my end of the year list, and a couple of podcasts. So stay tooned for what’s to come. Until then, I will tide you all over with a lovely performance by a man I saw this past Saturday named Dallas Green, aka City and Colour, in Washington D.C. He came equipped with a live band, but this clip is just him, acoustically, with rich vocals, and with fellow fans singing along. It was a beautiful song, and a beautiful night.

Enjoy fellow music heads. Expand your minds, listen, and love.

That being said, there are always those few gems that get through to my way of thinking and allow me to change my viewpoint and go. “oh man. Ok. Yeah. That was pretty stellar.” It’s rare, but it happens. On occasion. And people rarely include rap music as a genre for duets but it’s true for that style as well.  So you know what is coming up next right? I mean I gave this intro for a reason so you know what I must do next right? YES. I am about to provide a list of my favorite duets. This is just MY favorite list. I’m sure there are songs you all have that on not on this list. And that’s what comments are for;-) And here we gooooooo.

Mariah Carey/Boyz II Men – One Sweet Day. Back in the 90s.. you know, the 90s.. when people could actually sing. Without auto tune. Without whining singing. When expressing how you feel was a GOOD thing.. there was this. Take note you lousy R&B and pop singers, this is true singing at it’s finest. By two standout artists. This song always gives me goose bumps. Always. A+

Dolly Parton/Kenny Rogers – Islands in the Stream. YES. I said it. I love this song. I’m not ashamed to say it. It’s a wonderful song. It gets my toes tapping. And everyone KNOWS the chorus. I bet many a karyoke performance has been sung to this. It’s just such a classic country song. Before country was completely pop like it is now. “This could be the year for the real thing.” Such a good line. When I was a kid, I thought they were married. Part of me, even years later, wishes they were.  And the flub in the song makes it THAT more kick ass.

Prince/Sheena Easton – You Got the Look. Prince on top of his game. Sheena looking to top him. It doesn’t get much better than that. So good. So pop. Soooo.. freakishly Prince. Rock on. Now for this clip, the song doesn’t come in until 6 minutes. But it’s still a good one..

Otis Redding/Carla Thomas – Tramp. If this sounds familiar it is because Salt N’ Pepa sampled it and used the title. But this original is ridiculously entertaining and funny at the same time. I just love it to pieces. And the horns really make the song no question about it. Kudos to them.

Aretha Franklin/Annie Lennox – Sisters are Doin’ it for Themselves. I mean, this is just.. it’s just sickulous. The Queen of Soul with Annie’s fantastic voice. This is just fierce. It was and still is an anthem for every woman. Be strong, independent, and bad ass.

..and the rest:

Faithless/Boy George – Why Go?

Michael Jackson/Paul McCartney – The Girl is Mine

Monica/Brandy – The Boy is Mine

Queen/David Bowie – Under Pressure

PJ Harvey/Thom Yorke – The Mess We’re In

Peaches and Herb – Reunited

Pink/Peaches – Oh My God

Jermaine Dupri/Jay-Z – Money Ain’t a Thang

Now while there are plenty more I can add, these are my all time favorites.

Oh and if you have any suggestions, feel free to comment.. on this page.. not so much my facebook page. Just this page. Thanks!!

Once again I have compiled quite the random mix. I approve. So I shall share with you all. I hope you download as much as possible. Listen. And enjoy. Peep this. Your ears will LOVE you. I guarantee it.

Copy this ——> http://www.mediafire.com/?4zuknuu2crxglcp

Download.

Enjoy.

Here’s the rundown:

1. Patrick Stump – Dance Miserable

2. Florrie – Give Me Your Love

3. Mark Ronson feat. Robbie Williams – The Only One I Know

4. Lana Del Rey – Blue Jeans (Penguin Prison Rmx)

5. Sirsy – Oh! Billy

6. Broadcast – City in Process

7. Beady Eye – Millionaire

8. Stephen Kellogg & the Sixers – Satisfied Man

9. Blood ORange – I’m Sorry We Lied

10. Foster the People – Warrant

11. Massive Attack – Safe From Harm

12. Lisa Bianco – Lovely

13. Thompson Twins – Lay Your Hands On Me

14. Mazzy Star – Five String Serenade

15. The Monkees – Sometime in the Morning

16. Feist – How Come You Never Go There

17. Camo and Krooked – Get Dirty

18. Lee Scratch Perry – Love is Queen Omega

19. Sammy Hagar – Little White Lies

20. Monarchy – You Don’t Want to Dance With Me

21. The Pixies – Cecilia Ann

22. Bombay Bicycle Club – How Can You Swallow So Much Sleep

23. Marlena Shaw – California Shaw

24. Paul Simon – Something So Right

…and the collage.. Click on it for a bigger version.

That’s a wrap!

It is I. I returned. With a new poddy with a whole lotta flavor, as Guy Fieri says. Sorry I’ve been away. I had a lot on my plate. But I do have a nice selection of songs to make up for it. From my ears, to yours, I wish you music for Life.. It’s a wallop this week. Some old stuff, some new stuff, all killer. I can’t believe I’ve done ten of these shows. Time really does fly.

And now, here is the rundown. You know what to do.

Copy —> http://www.mediafire.com/?7v1bj6mw469m7t4

Paste.

Download.

Enjoys.

And of course, here is the cosmic slop selection. Click on the pic for a larger view. And a clearer view..

1. Lenny Kravitz – Come On, Get It

2. Matchbox Twenty – Disease

3. Pat Benatar – Hell is for Children

4. Vanessa Williams – Comfort Zone

5. Green Day – Nice Guys Finish Last

6. Eurythmics – Here Comes the Rain Again

7. Editors – Camera (Sebastian Remix)

8. Leona Lewis – Happy

9. Luther Vandross – Never Too Much

10. Against Me! – Ache with Me

11. Eleanor Friedberger – Roosevelt Island

12. Robbie Williams – Bodies (Stella Polaris Allstars Remix)

13. Ralph Myerz/Jack Herren Band – Think Twice

14. Under the Influence of Giants – Against All Odds

15. Sneaky Sound System – Pictures

16. Lady Gaga – You and I (Mark Taylor Remix)

17. Ace Frehley – New York Groove

18. Saint Motel – Puzzle Pieces

19. Aaliyah – One in a Million

20. Fences – The Same Tattoos

21. Wilco – Dawned on Me

22. The Monkees – Goin’ Down

23. Rusko – Kumon Kumon

24. Erasure – What Will I Say When You’re Gone

25. Friendly Fires – Show Me Lights

That’s a wrap!