Archive for the ‘Music’ Category

Katy Perry Releases Cover For New Album Teenage Dream

Friday, July 23rd, 2010

katyperry_teenagedreamcover-300x300 Yesterday Katy Perry revealed the cover to her new album Teenage Dream during a live Ustream Event.  The album itself isn’t due to be released until August 24th, but the first single California Gurls has all ready been tearing up the charts.

The art features Perry lying naked in a cloud of cotton candy, and was painted by LA-based artist Will Cotton.  The reveal online was the first time Perry had seen the piece of art herself, and her reaction was  ”Oh my God, what will my mother think?”

Katy added during the event that “I have decided for this to be just the album cover — no print, no nothing, no ‘Katy Perry’.  Hopefully they know it’s me by the actual picture.”  She also informed us that the album insert will smell like cotton candy.

Katy also announced that her next single will be Teenage Dream and it is expected to hit the airwaves on July 26th.  The other remaining songs on the 12-track disc will be announced on Friday, but they include Firework and Peacock.

  • Share/Bookmark
Comments

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Music

Matt Morris CD Review

Sunday, July 18th, 2010

matt morris cd review when everything breaks openIf you have a really good memory you might recall Matt Morris from his performance with Justin Timberlake on the telethon for Haiti. At the time everyone needed to know who this singer was that was privileged enough to sing with JT. Now that Matt Morris’ album, When Everything Breaks Open, is out we will see who really remembers.

Matt Morris (much like Justin Timberlake) is a Mickey Mouse Club alum, who went on to become a songwriter behind the scenes. When Everything Breaks Open is his time to take the spotlight himself.

Matt Morris does have an amazing voice. He has a range unlike most singers. There is so many parts of his voice that he is using that it actually hurts his cd. It’s like Matt Morris doesn’t want to just show you one side of him, so he shows you everything piece by piece. The cd ends up sounding disjointed even if you do think he’s talented.

There is a poppy side of Matt’s music, which is his strongest musically. These songs are catchy while still showing off his talent. His pop almost has a jazz feel to it. Then there is the more serious side to his music. At times Matt’s vocals are reminiscent of great singers like Rufus Wainwright. He has a soulful and almost spiritual side to his music.

Matt Morris could develop into one of this generation’s great songwriters. He has the skill as a writer and as a singer, but right now there is just too much going. When he pinpoints who he wants to be it should be interesting.

Watch Matt Morris’ music video for “Live Forever.”

  • Share/Bookmark
1 Comment

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Music

One Republic Concert Review

Friday, July 16th, 2010

by music writer, guest blogger

one republicLast night in Toronto, a fairly small group of people got the chance to see One Republic live in concert. You may know One Republic from their huge smash hit song “Apologize” with Timbaland. Despite having that single and many more, the concert hall was not overflowing as it should have been.

The first thing you notice about One Republic isn’t that they are wildly talented (even though they are), it’s that Ryan Tedder is a little ball of energy you can’t take your eyes off of. He is charming, intriguing, looks like a lot of fun, and just happens to be really easy on the eyes. He is easy on the ears as well. Ryan Tedder could actually take the old cliché of singing the phone book to heart and make it a radio number one hit song.

During their performance, One Republic rolled easily through their singles, “All The Right Moves,” “Stop And Stare” and “Say” making music look easy. With Ryan Tedder’s experience behind the scenes as a songwriter (he wrote hits such as Beyonce’s “Halo”), it’s surprising that he is as comfortable in front of a crowd as he is. From apologizing for not playing a concert in Toronto sooner to sharing champagne on stage, the whole band looks like they have been doing this for years. Their new album Waking Up has possibly hit after possibly hit turing their concert into a sing along for those of us who knew the lyrics.

The highlight of the One Republic concert was seeing they are actually as solid live as they are on cd. One Republic are deserving of a large stage so they can play out their music in a bigger setting. Ryan Tedder’s voice is shockingly good at some points leaving this music writer with her jaw on the floor.

Liking pop music may not be cool, but with bands like One Republic playing music who cares about cool.

If case you aren’t a fan of One Republic’s music yet, here is their video for “All The Right Moves.”

  • Share/Bookmark
Comments

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Music

Jewel Goes Undercover To Karaoke Her Own Hits

Thursday, July 15th, 2010

376px-Jewel_(USO)The website FunnyorDie.com has become one of the premiere prank websites, and recently they sent Jewel to a Karaoke bar in Los Angeles disguised as a homely looking business woman to sing her own songs.

The crowd was luke warm at first, until Jewel begins to sing.  They quickly warm up to her as she sings Who Will Save Your Soul and Foolish Games.  People can be heard stating that she is the “American Susan Boyle”.   When the prank is said and done, and Jewel’s alter-ego “Karen” leaves the stage the crowd is in awe.  They don’t get to wonder who that bespectacled woman is for long however, as Jewel comes back sans disguise and lets everyone in on the prank.

Take a look at the video for yourself.

  • Share/Bookmark
1 Comment

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Music

Lady Gaga Performs New Song On Today Show

Friday, July 9th, 2010

Lady Gaga gave thousands of screaming fans in New York City a big surprise this morning – a brand new song!

On the Today Show, Lady Gaga premiered her first song from her new album, “You And I.” Lady Gaga’s Today Show performance of the new song attracted 18,000 fans to stand in the pouring rain to hear her sing.  The new song was a ballad played on the piano. That might not be what the final track ends up sounding like on the album though. Regardless her voice sounded great.

This is the first real hint we’ve had that there is a new Lady Gaga album in the works. It’s about time.

Watch the new Lady Gaga song from the Today Show here:

  • Share/Bookmark
2 Comments

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Music

Prince Claims The Internet Is “Completely Over”

Tuesday, July 6th, 2010

Prince has refused to sell his music online, and has even sued YouTube and Ebay in the past to prevent his material from being posted.

According to WENN Prince has said that “The internet’s completely over. I don’t see why I should give my new music to iTunes or anyone else. They won’t pay me an advance for it and then they get angry when they can’t get it.

“The internet’s like MTV. At one time MTV was hip and suddenly it became outdated. Anyway, all these computers and digital gadgets are no good. They just fill your head with numbers and that can’t be good for you.”

Perhaps Prince is starting to believe the lyrics of his song “The Future” on the Batman soundtrack where he states ‘I’ve seen the future and it will be.’  It’s very doubtful the internet is going anywhere anytime soon, and his picture and music will still be found there.  Granted if you are the one doing the posting, you may want to expect his lawyers to contact you to remove it.

  • Share/Bookmark
2 Comments

Tags: , ,
Posted in Music

Chris Brown Performs Tribute To Michael Jackson at the BET Awards

Monday, June 28th, 2010

Everybody is talking about the BET Awards from last night, and more specifically Chris Brown’s Tribute to Michael Jackson.  It’s been a tumultuous year and a half for the young R&B singer, who pleaded guilty just over a year ago to charges of beating his then girlfriend Rhianna.  Since then he’s been doing his best to stay out of the public eye, including quitting twitter, until last night.

Chris Brown appeared on stage dressed like Michael Jackson, including the sparkling jacket and lone glittering glove.  He performed a flawless moonwalk and grabbed his crotch, while singing parts of The Way You Make Me Feel, Smooth Criminal, Remember The Time, Billie Jean, and Man in the Mirror.  During the last bit of his performance he broke down in tears.

Whether this will be enough to endure himself to his fans and help them forgive him is yet to be seen, but regardless it was a touching performance.

  • Share/Bookmark
1 Comment

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Music

CD Review: Drake – Thank Me Later

Friday, June 25th, 2010

drake thank me later cover artby Music Writer

From the halls of Degrassi High, Drake made it all the way to the forefront of hip-hop. It goes to show it helps to be in the right place at the right time. He is the IT kid of hip-hop right now with the biggest album in Canada. Everyone is talking about Drake. For the amount we’ve all heard about Drake it’s amazing this is just his first cd. His success is a huge step for the Canadian rap scene. Honestly, I’m not sure what all of the hype is about.

Drake clearly has talent, but he is not as good as you would expect from everything you’ve heard. When he’s alone Drake isn’t very interesting. He isn’t emotive in his style leaving each song feeling flat. Drake’s single “Over” is by far the best example of his skills on the album. This album is lacking intensity that hip-hop needs.

His first album features appearances by big stars like Alicia Keys and Jay-Z. These songs are also the strongest because they offer some variation. Alicia Keys adds a needed female presence on the first track “Fireworks.” Jay-Z’s smooth delivery shows you the best of hip-hop and makes Drake’s monotone style all the more obvious. Lil’ Wayne gives off the intensity that is obviously missing. The guests shouldn’t be the best part of your first cd.

While this disc does come across as long and flat, remember it is only Drake’s first. With help from pretty much everyone in the hip-hop industry Drake is going to be around for a long time. He has lots of time to grow.

Check out Drake’s single “Over”

  • Share/Bookmark
1 Comment

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Music

Much Music Video Awards Brings Out The Stars

Monday, June 21st, 2010

miley-twitterThis year the MMVA had Miley Cyrus co-hosting, and stars like Justin Bieber, Katy Perry, Adam Lambert, and Hedley performing.  When all was said and done Justin Bieber and Hedley took home three awards each.

While it is always nice to take home an award, the main focus of the evening was the performances themselves.  An estimated 8000 fans crowded Queen and John in downtown Toronto to catch a glimpse of their favorite musicians on stage.  Miley Cyrus attracted a lot of attention for the skimpy outfit she was wearing during her performance of Party in the USA, and fans swooned when Justin Bieber sang Baby.

All in all it was a great evening, and the fans left satisfied.

And The Winners Are:

UR FAVE Video
Justin Bieber f. Ludacris – “Baby”
UR FAVE New Artist
Justin Bieber f. Ludacris – “Baby”
UR FAVE International Video
Adam Lambert – “Whataya Want From Me”
MuchMusic.com Most Watched Video
Young Artists for Haiti – “Wavin’ Flag”
Video Of The Year
Hedley – “Perfect”
International Video Of The Year – Artist
Miley Cyrus – “Party in The U.S.A.”
International Video Of The Year – Group
Jonas Brothers – “Paranoid”
Pop Video of the Year
Hedley – “Cha-Ching”
International Video Of The Year By A Canadian
Justin Bieber f. Ludacris – “Baby”
MuchLOUD Rock Video Of The Year
Billy Talent – “Devil on my Shoulder”
MuchVIBE Hip-Hop Video Of The Year
Trey Songz & Drake – “Successful“
Director Of The Year
Billy Talent – “Saint Veronika”
Post-Production Of The Year
Hedley – “Perfect”
Cinematography Of The Year
Trey Songz & Drake – “Successful“
MuchFACT Indie Video Of The Year
Belly f. Snoop Dogg– “Hot Girl”

UR FAVE Video: Justin Bieber f. Ludacris – “Baby”

UR FAVE New Artist: Justin Bieber f. Ludacris – “Baby”

UR FAVE International Video: Adam Lambert – “Whataya Want From Me”

MuchMusic.com Most Watched Video: Young Artists for Haiti – “Wavin’ Flag”

Video Of The Year : Hedley – “Perfect”

International Video Of The Year – Artist: Miley Cyrus – “Party in The U.S.A.”

International Video Of The Year – Group: Jonas Brothers – “Paranoid”

Pop Video of the Year: Hedley – “Cha-Ching”

International Video Of The Year By A Canadian: Justin Bieber f. Ludacris – “Baby”

MuchLOUD Rock Video Of The Year: Billy Talent – “Devil on my Shoulder”

MuchVIBE Hip-Hop Video Of The Year: Trey Songz & Drake – “Successful“

Director Of The Year: Billy Talent – “Saint Veronika”

Post-Production Of The Year: Hedley – “Perfect”

Cinematography Of The Year: Trey Songz & Drake – “Successful“

MuchFACT Indie Video Of The Year: Belly f. Snoop Dogg– “Hot Girl”

  • Share/Bookmark
3 Comments

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Music

Concert Review: Adam Lambert in Toronto

Sunday, June 20th, 2010

adam lambert toronto concert mmvaby Music Writer

Last night, only a day before his MMVA performance, American Idol star Adam Lambert showed Toronto his skills on the stage at the Wham Bam concert. Adam Lambert showed how he made such a big name for himself, so quickly.

It was a long day featuring a huge list of performances by music guests including Orianthi and Danny Fernandes. The crowd was excited and ready to party; From teen girls to lots and lots of mom’s who were screaming just as loud (if not louder) at the mere mention of Adam Lambert’s name.

When the lights went down and his picture appeared on the screen everyone except Adam was forgotten. To begin the drama, Adam Lambert’s single “For Your Entertainment” was played over the speakers creating a buzz of anticipation. Finally Adam Lambert hit the stage. It was clear from his top hat and fringe and feathered purple coat that this show was going to be filled with drama.

Adam Lambert’s set started off a little sleepy with “Voodoo.” Adam Lambert should have burst onstage with big moves, but he didn’t disappoint for long. Through his high energy tracks like “Fever,” “Sure Fire Winners,” “Music Again” and “Strut” Adam Lambert had us all in the palm of his hand. He has amazing chemistry with his backup dancers. The sexual tension he brings on stage is exactly what you would expect. He really is a performer in every sense of the word. That energy coming from him makes the show what it was.

He slowed things down for the middle of his set starting with an acoustic version of his single “Whatdya Want From Me.” While they are a little too show tune for me, in these slow songs like “Soaked” and “Aftermath” his huge voice really shines.

After an hour of Adam Lambert glam (which included 2 costume changes), he ended the show in perfection. “If I Had You” had all of the elements we got throughout the show in one perfect package.

American Idol may have given Adam Lambert his big break, but he has taken his career away from the Idol stigma. He has the glamor and drama of very few contemporary artists. You never know what he will do next. I can’t wait to see what he pulls out for the MMVA’s tonight.

[photo via Netmeg99 twitpic]

  • Share/Bookmark
5 Comments

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Music

CD Review: Orianthi – Believe

Friday, June 18th, 2010

orianthi cd review believeAt 25 years old, Orianthi is pretty amazing. She has recorded two albums on her own and played with legends like Michael Jackson, Price and Carlos Santana. She has also played with current stars Carrie Underwood and Adam Lambert. Her latest album Believe, is creating such a buzz that is has now been re-released for those who missed it the first time around.

On Believe, Orianthi (whose real name is Orianthi Panagaris) showed her full range of talent from singing to incredible guitar playing. At such a young age, she has an incredible talent to show off.

This is the kind of album parents want their daughters to be listening to. Orianthi is a strong, talented young woman who isn’t falling back on her good looks. She worked her butt off to become an amazing musician. The lyrics are positive and strong. It’s not dumbed down.

The songs on Believe range from the very poppy to songs with a more country twang. Her voice is made for the country songs. They suit the warmth in her voice. Her guitar playing is better suited to a more rock radio style. Orianthi needs to find the right balance. In her current music place, it’s nice to see she can actually play the guitar well, but the guitar solos Orianthi insists on putting into her songs don’t fit. The solos aren’t suited for the songs.

Believe is Orianthi’s real big break into the music scene. “According To You” is already a huge hit. “Shut Up And Kiss Me” will probably be equally big. Her upcoming tour with Adam Lambert is going to expose her to the exact crowd she needs to embrace. This album she is still wetting her feet in. Now she has to take what she’s learned into a real solo career.

  • Share/Bookmark
2 Comments

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Music, Uncategorized

Rocker Pat Benatar Releases Memoir Between A Heart And A Rock Place

Monday, June 14th, 2010

Just two weeks ago Real Style Network reported on Belinda Carlisle’s new book Lips Unsealed, and now another 80’s rocker, Pat Benatar, is releasing her memoirs Between A Heart and a Rock Place.  The book, which hits shelves tomorrow, tells the truth about her life, her struggles, and her many successes.

In case you don’t remember Pat Benatar was known for her hit music, such as Hit Me With Your Best Shot, Heartbreaker, and Love Is A Battlefield.  She was also the first female artist to ever have a video played on MTV, and is a four time Grammy winner.  Harper Collins, the books publisher, tells us on their website that in the book Pat “speaks candidly about the realities of breaking into the boys’ club of rock and roll at a time when people everywhere still believed a woman’s only place in popular music was as a girlfriend, a groupie, or a sex symbol.”

  • Share/Bookmark
3 Comments

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Music

R. Kelly Opens World Cup With The FIFA Anthem Sign Of A Victory

Friday, June 11th, 2010

With the World Cup well on its way, R. Kelly’s song Sign of a Victory has become the tournament’s official anthem.  He performed the song live in Johannesburg, South Africa this morning during the opening ceremonies in front of the 86 thousand fans in attendance and the millions watching from home.  This isn’t the first inspirational song R. Kelly has sung, in fact one of his most famous songs is “I Believe I Can Fly.”

During an interview with the Associated Post R. Kelly said “It’s definitely no doubt a humanity song, and I’m hoping that everybody feels the same way when they hear it.  (I’m) hoping they can be as touched by it as I was when I heard it in my head.”

Watch R. Kelly’s performance at the World Cup opening ceremonies this morning here.

  • Share/Bookmark
1 Comment

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Celebrity News, Music

LADY GAGA Alejandro Video

Tuesday, June 8th, 2010

Lady GagaThe Lady GAGA Alejandro video is out and it’s getting lots of attention, as most of Lady Gaga’s wild videos do. What’s amazing is that seemingly innocuous lyrics for both Telephone and Alejandro can get turned into something  this dark, sexual and kinky.

In this eight minute video that many a press are naming a tribute to Madonna, we see an army of good looking men made terribly ugly with “Moe” haircuts stomping around and then of course simulating sex with Lady Gaga. Lady Gaga appears as a nun, in a cone breasted corset, speaking with a French accent, as a ‘Mad Max’ queen and so on. Must say she does look like she slimmed down quite a bit.

 

  • Share/Bookmark
3 Comments

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Music

Belinda Carlisle Releases Biography – Lips Unsealed

Tuesday, June 1st, 2010

Belinda Carlisle, former member of hit 80’s band The Go-Go’s, has released a biography called Lips Unsealed. In the book, which is released today, she talks about her 30 year battle with weight and drug addiction. Fans of the Go-Go’s can also read wild stories of the bands days on tour with acts like the Police and the Madness.

Publisher’s Weekly calls the memoir ‘a chronicle of one party after another and a list of celebrity who’s who. Carlisle writes candidly, and her chronic fear of being exposed as a fake is heartfelt and winning.’

Belinda Carlisle recently sat down with ABC News to discuss the book. Take a look.

Related Posts with Thumbnails
  • Share/Bookmark
1 Comment

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Celebrity News, Music

« Older Entries