MIKE'S DAILY JUKEBOX

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2012-08-28T01:00:00.000-04:00

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Have You Changed The World? new Beyonce, Ryan Star, Yellowcard

2012-08-28T00:00:00.000-04:00

"I WAS HERE" BEYONCE'

Have you made a difference in the world? What have you done in your life that you can look back at one day and proclaim, "I Was Here"? Diane Warren penned this three minute opus as a declaration of "the hearts you touched" as proof that you helped make the world a better place. Beyonce' recorded the song for her latest CD and just released the video for World Humanitarian Day. Beyonce' performed the song in front of the United Nations! Can you imagine her thrill of being asked to sing in front of "the world" on its biggest stage? The video highlights some humanitarian workers doing incredible things but often it's the smallest things we do that leave a lasting impression on someone's live. We ALL make a difference.

"STAY AWHILE" RYAN STAR

One of the finalists on the reality show, Rock Star: Supernova, looking for the new lead singer for INXS, Ryan Starr has continued making records looking for his big break. He may have finally found it! Just signed to Island Records, his new single, "Stay Awhile" has gone viral on YouTube this past week. Ryan's previous label wasn't promoting him well, so he self-produced this sensual, inspirational video, caught the attention of Island Records, and after consulting with his friend, Jon Bon Jovi, made the jump. One of Ryan's early tracks, Last Train Home, is one of my all-time movie soundtrack songs.

"ALMOST SUMMER" YELLOWCARD

The Orlando pop punk band with the violin player are back! Songs like "Oceans Avenue" and "Only One" generated a lot of buzz a few years ago but a couple of disappointing follow-up cd's took Yellowcard off our radar. "Here I Am Alive", their new single feels like a Cobra Starship reject, a pop ditty that's fun but no substance. Just when I think they've lost that edge that made them special, "Almost Summer" rocks a little harder, brings back their signature violin sound, and "Southern Air", their new CD, looks like it could be a return to their glory days.

Woo Hoo! Led Zeppelin Goes Reggae: Blur, Mushmellow (Britney Cover), Led Zeppelin

2012-08-27T00:00:00.000-04:00

"SONG #2" BLUR

Clocking in at only 2:02, one of the 90's greatest indie rock anthems has two verses, two choruses, and two bridges. It's the second song, second single on their second album. Hmmmm, I'm getting a good idea how their title "Song #2" was chosen. Let's see how good you are at trivia, how high did this song make it to on the UK charts? Yes, you guessed right (#2!) Woo Hoo! The song has lived on in video games, movies (great Charlies Angel's scene with Drew Barrymore), and commercials. "Song #2" was actually conceived as a parody song of the grunge explosion and ironically began knocking those types of songs off the radio.

"D'YER MAKER" LED ZEPPELIN

Zeppelin fans didn't love this track when it first came out. Led Zeppelin does reggae? When Houses Of The Holy was released, fans were surprised to hear their change in style, bassist John Paul Jones was embarrassed by it, and Zep never played it live in concert. Yet, the song has become a classic rock favorite. The song was recorded at Mick Jagger's Stargroves home in England and John Bonham tried to mix a 50's doo wop beat with a little Jamaican soul. If you want to hear a travesty, google Sheryl Crow's cover version of the song complete with an accordion solo.

"TOXIC" MUSHMELLOW

The Beatles recorded "Back In The USSR" with the line, "The Ukraine girls really knock me out, they leave the west behind....." well, a real life Ukranian rock band show us how special those girls are in this video. Alex Mushmellow Zhuravel lived in Seattle during the grunge period and mixed that sound with his Russian rock band roots for a dynamic cover of the Britney Spears #1 hit. The video maintains the theme of enticing girls except this time it's on a Russian train instead of a plane. I was introduced to this song by a special mix CD given to me a couple of years ago, great song to play at high volume!

Mikesdailyjukebox.com is the new website address

2012-08-26T17:00:00.004-04:00

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Roll Up The Windows, Don't Let Them Hear: Queen, MC Hammer, Air Supply, Rehab with Hank Williams Jr.

2012-08-26T00:00:00.000-04:00

"TURN THIS MUTHA OUT" MC HAMMER

When I first moved to Florida, I went to a concert at the Thunderdome, as it was known at the time, now it's Tropicana Field, home of the Rays. SWV, Oaktown 357, Boyz II Men, and the headliner, MC Hammer. If you're into old school rap, you've got to love this 1990 jam. "Hammer, You ain't hitting in New York, So what you gonna do about that, Hammer??" ---- "I'm gonna turn this mutha out!!!" A total entertainer, the man with the best moves of the decade (well up there with Michael Jackson), and a rapper for the fans. It may not be cool anymore but I always crank this one up!

"SOMEBODY TO LOVE" QUEEN

When you pull up next to a guy's car, you can learn a lot from the music blasting from his stereo. Queen is one of those bands that probably every guy loves a bunch of their songs but doesn't go around telling anyone. "Somebody To Love" opens with a Freddie Mercury falsetto, an operatic choir, and a twinkling of piano keys. But you have to crank up one of the best rock songs of the 70's!

"BARTENDER SONG" REHAB

You've got to smile at how this band got their name. Three musicians with drug and alcohol issues met in rehab, decided to form a band, and guess what they chose! In 2008, they re-wrote an earlier song of theirs called "Sittin In A Bar", remixed it with Hank Williams Jr. and scored a top 40 hit. It's a little twangy and corny but it's so much fun!

"SWEET DREAMS" AIR SUPPLY

On Saturday Night Live, they loved to make fun of the effeminate guys in Air Supply. But give this song a listen and there is so much going on! Great musical textures, layering of vocals with keyboards, mixed with timeless lyrics, "Sweet Dreams" is 80's gold. Plus the vintage video set in their native Australia perfectly captured the time period. The band is still alive and well, although their audience is older. I even caught them selling CDs on Home Shopping Network or QVC one time.

Billy Corgan Takes A Shot At Soundgarden, Stick A Fork In Limp Bizkit: Smashing Pumpkins, Soundgarden, Limp Bizkit

2012-08-25T00:00:00.000-04:00

"DISARM" SMASHING PUMPKINS

The Smashing Pumpkins released a new CD, Oceania, last month that has received excellent reviews. Their new music adds to their legacy with an updated sound that is as relevant as any new bands in 2012. While they're back in the spotlight, Billy Corgan took a moment to take a shot at Chris Cornell's band this week. With Soundgarden ready to release their first new CD in what feels like forever, Billy said, " When Soundgarden came back and they just played their old songs, great. I was a fan of Soundgarden, but call it for what it is. They’re just out there to have one more round at the till; same with Pavement and these other bands." Here's looking back at two of the best videos of the 90's.

"SPOONMAN" SOUNDGARDEN

This summer, the latest Soundgarden song, "Live To Rise", was released on the Avengers soundtrack. Hmmm, it was ok, typical. I'm hoping Billy's wrong and Chris Cornell steps it up and conjures another grunge classic. Their album is scheduled for November 13th. Guitarist, Kim Thayil, said the music will reestablish that Soundgarden is "still heavy and a little weird". Two track titles leaked are: "A Thousand Days Before" and "Blood On The Valley Floor".

"REARRANGED" LIMP BIZKIT

Fred Durst announced this week that Limp Bizkit is over. Fred said, "Here's the deal: say in 2000, there were 35 million people who connected to this band. Twelve years later, lots of those people have moved on. We were a moment in time and it's over." Limp Bizkit signed with Lil Wayne's Cash Money records in May and plans to release 2 more CD's but Fred acknowledges their time in the spotlight has passed them by. Here's a favorite of mine back in the day, a retired TRL video classic. Fred's sporting his signature red Yankees cap, quoting the now ironic line, "Thank God it's over!"

Bob Marley's Legacy: Bob Marley, Stephen Marley, Ziggy Marley, Damian Marley, Rohan Marley

2012-08-24T00:00:00.000-04:00

Name any genre of music and you'll never find another artist who dominated their style more than Bob Marley embodies Reggae. Time Magazine named Exodus, the greatest album of the 20th Century. His greatest hits CD, Legend, has been one of the top selling albums each year since 1984. Bob Marley's influence on the culture of Jamaica cannot be understated.

A recent documentary, MARLEY, has received amazing reviews and I'm sure it will be nominated for a documentary Oscar in 2013. His influence and legend grows exponentially thanks to his talented children who share his love of reggae and carry on the Rastafari movement.

Like a giant tree with many branches, the Marley name continues to grow yearly. Here's a tribute to the Marley Family.

"NO WOMAN, NO CRY" BOB MARLEY

"TRUE TO MYSELF" ZIGGY (oldest son)

"IN LOVE WITH YOU" STEPHEN MARLEY with ERYKAH BADU

"AFFAIRS OF THE HEART" DAMIAN MARLEY

MIAMI HURRICANES LINEBACKER, ROHAN MARLEY!!!! Rammstein's Du Hast with big hits by Rohan, FYI #94 is Dwayne Johnson, The Rock.

"COULD YOU BE LOVED" ALL 5 MARLEY BOYS!

New Daughtry Song For Famine Relief: AFI, Deepfield

2012-08-23T00:00:00.000-04:00

"RESCUE ME" DAUGHTRY

On his 2012 American Tour, Chris Daughtry has been playing an uplifiting new song, "Rescue Me", track #10 on "Break The Spell". The song has been remixed with an intro from Chris asking if you want to be a superhero, here's your chance. It's been released as a charity single for African famine relief. You can contribute to the worthy cause: Here's the link: "The International Rescue Committee, Save the Children and Mercy Corps are partnering with DC Entertainment as part of We Can be Heroes. Together, we aim to help millions of people suffering the effects of drought and famine in Africa."

"DON'T LET GO" DEEPFIELD

As you can tell from my blog, I love a great cover song. Here's a newer hard rock band tackling an emotional R&B 90's jam from En Vogue. Dawn Robinson's soulful vocals are replaced by the grungy vocals of Deepfield's Baxter Teal. This cover song was never released as a single but radio played it a few times. Deepfield hasn't hit it big yet but has received a lot of exposure as the opening act for bands like Puddle of Mudd, Tantric, and Shinedown. Don't get fooled by the video, it's not Deepfield, they didn't feel the song deserved a video :( So some fans rocked out a home version and it's really good!

"THE LEAVING SONG PART ii" AFI

In 2011, lead singer, Davey Haduk announced online that AFI had split up. Shortly later, the online post was deleted and rumors were the band was still together. It's been almost a year and the band still hasn't performed together so the mystery of AFI's future remains. Back in the mid 2000's, A Fire Inside was dominating rock radio with hits like Miss Murder, Love Like Winter, and The Girl's Not Grey. Their biggest hit, "The Leaving Song Part II", was prominently featured in the Madden 2004 NFL video game. In a brilliant marketing move, bands have been adding songs to video game soundtracks for years and introduced themselves to hardcore fans. I can say first-hand that it definitely introduced me to bands like Seether, Yellowcard, and AFI.

Waiting For The New Justin Timberlake CD?: Monica, Will Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith

2012-08-22T00:00:00.000-04:00

"SENORITA" JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE

Why isn't Justin Timberlake releasing a new CD? It's been rumored that he's working on a follow up to his 2006 FutureSex/LoveSounds multi-platinum CD. Yet, in an interview with Playboy Magazine, Justin said he loves writing music but he's jaded by how "making music becomes a total life-sucking commitment". There is no definite update about a new CD, but I'm sure many like me would love to see some new JT this upcoming year! Here's Senorita from his debut disc, complete with a Latin flavored Pharell beat, cowbell in the chorus, and a bevy of hot female dancers in the video.

"1000 KISSES" WILL SMITH and JADA PINKETT SMITH

Despite the divorce rumors, Jada Pinkett Smith says of her husband, Will, they're "still heavily in love" and "these silly rumors get started every year or two". For fifteen years, Will and Jada have been a Hollywood couple you want to root for. Hear them talk about their kids, Jaden and Willow, and you can see that they're strict but loving. Will even got Jada to SING on a 2003 record called "1000 Kisses". The playful, sexy video is adorable with the happy couple bringing back some silly 80's dance moves. Jada has always looked stunningly beautiful, but especially so in this hidden treasure song!

"BELIEVING IN ME" MONICA

Back in the mid 90's, a thirteen year old Monica was taking the R&B world by storm. "Don't Take It Personal" and "The Boy Is Mine" with Brandy topped the charts. Every new CD brought more personal issues into Monica's life and by 2003 she took a break from the music industry. She stormed back in 2010 with a BET reality TV show documenting her comeback and a new CD, Still Standing. The album featured many songs of empowerment and taking back your life, here's the haunting break-up song "Believing In Me":

LYRICS:
Didn't know that I was selling my soul
To someone who didn't care at all
Couldn't see that you were bad for me
Gave so much that it was making me weak
Now I can't believe the way that it feels to finally be free[Chorus:]
I've moved on
And I'm strong
I'm going back to the place
Where I know I belong
And I'm glad that your gone
Cause your not what I need
I'm believing in me

The Next Adele? : Emeli Sande', Three Days Grace, Pistol Annies,Green Day

2012-08-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

"MY KIND OF LOVE" EMELI SANDE'

The "next Beyonce"? The "next Adele"? Emeli Sande released her debut CD in England and it shot straight to #1. Internationally, she is one of the biggest selling artists of 2012. She writes and composes all of her music and doesn't use her image or sexuality to sell it, just her incredible vocal skills. Here in the States she's still a relative unknown. Check out her slow jam, "My Kind Of Love" and you feel the emotional impact of Adele's Someone Like You especially with the cancer theme of the video. "Next To Me" reminds me of Adele's Rolling In The Deep. She'll be performing on Jay Leno Wednesday night. Mark my words, Emeli Sande' will be nominated for a lot of Grammy Awards in 2013!

"OH LOVE" GREEN DAY

"TAKIN' PILLS" PISTOL ANNIES

Traditional country music twang is alive and well with Miranda Lambert leading the way. Coming off their smash debut single, "Hell On Heels", the trio is back with another sly come-on, "Takin' Pills". Give the song more than one listen and you're hooked! Besides Miranda, Ashley Monroe ("I Don't Want To") and Angeleena Presley make up the all-girl country band. You've got to respect that they wrote every song on the CD, play guitar, and challenge country music with their mix of classic country with a splash of sexy attitude.

"CHALK OUTLINE" THREE DAYS GRACE

"Transit Of Venus" will be released on October 2nd, marking the 4th CD for the Canadian modern rock band, Three Days Grace. Basing the album off of "Chalk Outline", we can expect another album of aggressive hard rock riffs, radio friendly hooks, and hopefully a tour to support the CD. The band promises they took some chances and got experimental this time around. "Transit Of Venus" refers to a once in a lifetime experience when Venus and the moon align in a certain way.

Teen Suicide Hits Home: Judas Priest, Staind, Kix, Good Charlotte

2012-08-20T00:00:00.000-04:00

"YOU'VE GOT ANOTHER THING COMING" JUDAS PRIEST

I've recently heard of two local teenagers who chose to end their lives. Suicide is #3 on the cause of deaths for those 15 to 24 yrs old. It's estimated that there are 25 failed attempts for every 1 death. It's hard to even imagine how someone could be SO depressed to make this eternal decision. Even after their death, questions remain. These are young people with years of life ahead, so much potential, amazing opportunities yet unknown to them! Heavy Metal has often been slammed in the press for their lyrics. Yet, Judas Priest's 80's metal anthem describes living life to the max, "you think I'll sit around and let life pass me by, you're thinking like a fool". The energy and passion in Rob Halford's performance gets your heart beating fast, your fist pumping, and you're ready to take on the world! Life takes turns we don't always see coming but things always eventually get better. "Out there is a fortune waiting to be had, if you think I'll let you go, you're mad! You've got another thing coming!"

"WASTE" STAIND

Those who commit suicide have written in their final letters that they wanted to end all of the pain. Yet, by making a selfish decision to end their precious life, this reeks havoc on all of those in your life who live on with the tragic memory of what you did. One young man in Peoria, Illinois, hung himself and died while listening to a continous loop of another Staind song, "Outside". For more on the story check on this link. Aaron Lewis didn't hold back any punches or emotion when he wrote "Waste" as a sort of retaliation for that young man's decision.

"HOLD ON" GOOD CHARLOTTE

Christmas 2003, Good Charlotte was the flavor of the month pop punk band. Capitalizing on their success, they reached out to help their fans and truly make a difference with the fifth single on the Young & Hopeless CD. "Hold On" was written in response to letters from their fans who had contemplated suicide. The song is great but the video with clips of parents, best friends, and brothers/sisters describing their experiences will wake up anyone with thoughts of death. Good Charlotte has become a "whatever happened to" band. Now, the twin brothers, Joel and Benji Madden, are probably most known for their dating exploits with Hillary Duff, Sophie Monk, Holly Madison, Paris Hilton, and one of them is now married to Nicole Richie.

"DON'T CLOSE YOUR EYES" KIX

As the 80's glam metal era was ending, Kix was gaining their popularity. "Cold Blood", "Blow My Fuse", and "Don't Close Your Eyes" were staples on MTV's Headbanger's Ball. The power ballad I chose is an anti-suicide hard rock classic. Haters want to slam metal's lyrics, but you've got to love a hook line that comforts: "Don't close your eyes, don't sing your last lullaby, hold on, hold on tight, I'll make everything alright". As I start another year teaching, I hope my students take advantage of their opportunities ahead, enjoy their youthful energy, and make the absolute most out of life.

2012 Election, Rock The Vote: Rage Against The Machine, One Less Reason, Royal Bliss

2012-08-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

"BULLS ON PARADE" RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE

With the 2012 election around the corner, actors and musicians will be taking sides supporting the candidate of their choice. Tom Morello, formerly of Rage Against The Machine, has always been not only one of the greatest guitarists of all-time but one of music's leading political activists. Tom supported the Occupy Wall Street movement, actively campaigned for political candidates, sued the U.S. government over the treatment of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, and has kept up the fight for increased immigration rights. On the classic RATM track, "Bulls On Parade", Tom asks how extravagant sums of money can be spent on the military when their own people suffer and starve. It's a biting statement when you learn the U.S. spends almost more on their military (42% of worldwide expenditures) than ALL other countries combined. Yet,our country is facing record unemployment, rising gas prices, and an ever-growing debt. "They rally around the family with a pocket full of shells".

"A DAY TO BE ALONE" ONE LESS REASON

Prepare yourself, your jaw will drop in awe and your heart will sink after hearing this uber-emotional song by the Tennessee indie band, One Less Reason. They're currently unsigned, how is that possible? Dealing with a bad breakup or a relationship with an individual who drains your energy, perfect song for you. Here's some of the lyrics:
"Tell me about those nights you stayed awake,
Tell me about those days you hated me,
Tell me how you'd rather die alone
Than being stuck here with me
And maybe you've fallen down
And maybe you just took the long way home
But baby you could never love you like me
And one day this will fade away
In the mirror you'll see a smiling face
And standing next to you will always be me, yeah me"

"CRAZY" ROYAL BLISS

"Yeah, I'm crazy for you baby, can't you see? I'm wondering if you're crazy just like me?" Not sure if you're going to win many points with your girlfriend asking if she's crazy, but I love the slow build and how Royal Bliss create a love song with an edge. This comes from the 2012 CD, "Waiting Out The Storm". It's a GOOD CD but I highly recommend their previous GREAT CD, "Life In-Between". Royal Bliss is based out of the Northwest U.S. and they've been called the "unluckiest band in the world" for all of the personal tragedies they've dealt with. I'm a big fan and still keeping an eye open for their major breakthrough.

Alicia Keys Discography: Favorite Song On Each CD

2012-08-18T00:00:00.000-04:00

2001 "A WOMAN'S WORTH" from Songs In A Minor

Five Grammy wins for Alicia's debut album! Comparisons to Aretha Franklin, Lauryn Hill, and Stevie Wonder after only one CD. Alicia didn't jump on the hip hop rap bandwagon, she faithfully stuck to her classically trained roots and released an album that crossed multiple genres. Jazzy tones, 70's funk, neo-soul styling, piano ballads, old school New York hip hop beats, yet kept it all contemporary and urban. She even threw in a Prince cover. It felt vintage and new at the same time. The two singles are legendary, the gospel-tinged advice to the guys, "A Woman's Worth" and "Falling" with Alicia showing off her vocal capabilities. Alicia said she wrote Falling to describe the roller coaster nature of a relationship when she said, "Sometimes, you're completely head-over-heels in love with someone, and sometimes you can't stand that person. You fall in and out". The remix of the CD including a Top 10 Hip Hop jam with Eve called "Gangsta Lovin" which only added to her mystique.

2003 "IF I WERE YOUR WOMAN / WALK ON BY" from The Diary Of Alicia Keys

No sophomore slump for Alicia. Her 2nd CD debuted at #1, sold eight million copies worldwide, and three more Grammy awards including Best R&B album. "If I Ain't Got You", "You Don't Know My Name" (written with a young Kanye West), and "Karma" all exploded on the pop charts. My two favorite songs are a sexy two minute interlude called "Feeling You, Feeling Me" (previous blog) and her mashup of "If I Were Your Woman/Walk On By". Paying homage to Gladys Knight and Dionne Warwick, Alicia updated the beats and increased the urgency of the lyrics.

DAILY MUSIC TRIVIA: I was asked this question on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, what 80's TV show did a six year old Alicia Keys guest star on? Yesterday:

2007 "LIKE YOU'LL NEVER SEE ME AGAIN" from As I Am

Alicia's third album lived up to lofty expectations becoming the the Number One selling CD of 2008. You couldn't turn on the radio and not hear her optimistic love song, "No One". She teamed up with John Mayer for "Lesson Learned" and "Teenage Love Affair" became two more R&B hits. Like some critics, I found Alicia's third album a little poppy and overall not as strong as her first two releases. But there was still some amazing songs on it like "Tell You Something" (Nana's Theme) which featured Alicia crooning at the piano. My favorite song, "Like You'll Never See Me Again" was enhanced by an award winning video with Common. The visuals are as amazing as the record's message.

2009 "DISTANCE AND TIME" from The Element Of Freedom

Perhaps a backlash or an audience looking for Alicia to challenge her potential more, The Element Of Freedom, became her first release to NOT hit #1. Many of the songs were sensitive ballads, the words "moody" and "delicate" describe the feel of the album as a whole. One bright spot was the production by Swiss Beatz, who fell in love with Alicia during the recording session. Their affair ignited a media frenzy, yet, they have since married and welcomed a beautiful boy into the world. Her version of Jay-Z's tribute to NYC, "Empire State of Mind Part 2" and "Wait Until You See My Smile" are stand out tracks. The pinnacle of the disc, "Distance And Time", perfectly describes those lonely moments when the one you love is away from you and you're counting the moments until they return, the tone harkens back to her dynamic debut CD.

Deliver Me: Opera mixes with modern music: U2, Pavarotti, Sarah Brightman, Elton John, Martina McBride, Jim Brickman

2012-08-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

"DELIVER ME" SARAH BRIGHTMAN

One of the most accomplished and powerful voices in music history, Sarah Brightman can hit THREE octaves and has recorded in almost a dozen different languages. She's the voice of "Phantom Of The Opera", "Evita", "Cats", and is the go-to soprano for many of Andrew Lloyd Webber's epic productions. I'm not a big fan of classical music or Broadway but I caught a duet of Sarah with of all people, KISS' Paul Stanley, and wanted to learn more. I was reminded of her breathtaking earthquake charity single, Deliver Me, complete with a angelic choir and backing by Enya.

"MISS SARAJAVO" U2 with PAVAROTTI

When people tell me they hate country music or they hate rap,......I often tell them, it may not be your favorite genre but I take as a challenge to find some crossover song that they'd love. For me, operatic music can be painful to my ears. My iPod of 20,000 songs has about 15 opera type songs on it, but there is something so magical about the collaboration with Bono and Pavarotti on "Miss Sarajavo". A song about the war-torn starving people who struggled to survive while the Serbian/Bosnian political conflict raged on for years. During a Miss Bosnia beauty pageant, one contestant held up a sign saying "Don't Let Them Kill Us". The imagery is striking and captured in this video.

"VALENTINE" JIM BRICKMAN Ft. MARTINA McBRIDE

Flipping channels on your TV, you might have stumbled across the PBS Telethons to raise money to keep their network on the air. Jim Brickman was featured on a PBS special, Jim is a subtle master at the piano and has created some of most beautiful romantic love songs of all-time. He's collaborated with artists as diverse as Olivia Newton John, Christian artist Michael W. Smith, Lady Antebellum, even Wayne Brady had a big hit with Brickman. His music has been described as "new age", greeting card music, but there is no denying the power of his first and biggest hit with Martina McBride.

"YOUR SONG" (Charity Single) ELTON JOHN with ALESSANDRO SAFINA

In case you missed my very first blog, here's Elton John singing one of my all-time favorite songs, remixed with a children's choir and opera superstar, Alessandro Safina. Click the above link to see an incredible piece of music history.

80's Rock Songs That Deserved Better: Journey, Faster Pussycat, LA Guns, Twisted Sister

2012-08-16T00:00:00.000-04:00

"STONE IN LOVE" JOURNEY

"Those crazy nights I do remember in my youth, those were the best times". When you think of Journey, the Escape album and their three massive hits, Don't Stop Believin', Open Arms, and Who's Crying Now, are probably the first songs that come to your mind. Escape (actually titled E5C4P3) sold close to 10 million copies, heck, they even made an Atari video game based on the album. The fourth single was "Still They Ride", a song that didn't fare as well. For me, I would have released "Stone In Love", one of my favorite tracks on the album. Never released as a single although mainstream rock radio stations would often play it, Neil Schon's guitar solo and Steve Perry really shined here.

"YOU'RE SO VAIN" FASTER PUSSYCAT

One of the more creative but fitting cover songs of the 80's, Carly Simon's #1 classic from the 1972 gets roughed up by Faster Pussycat. You can just feel the grime of the Sunset Strip and the sleaze of the Whiskey A Go Go with this glammed up cover. Faster Pussycat are best known for their power ballad "House Of Pain" and their sexual romp, "Bathroom Wall". "You're So Vain" was released on a tribute to Elektra Records compilation disc called Rubaiyat (The Cure covers the Doors on it too) and the band followed up by re-releasing the song on an EP. "You're So Vain" never became a hit, another lost opportunity for an underrated 80's glam band. Marilyn Manson and Johnny Depp took a stab at the Carly Simon tune, you may also want to check it out on my site.

"CRYSTAL EYES" L.A. GUNS

Oh what could have been! Axl Rose, Izzy Stradlin, Duff McKagan, and Slash got their start with L.A. Guns and Hollywood Rose, when disagreements over the band's direction and in-fighting among the guys took over, a breakup was inevitable. Most of the guys formed Guns N Roses, perhaps the greatest glam band of all-time, while Tracii Guns reformed L.A. Guns, a group that always seemed like a little brother on the scene. "Never Enough" and "The Ballad of Jayne" hit big before Tracii changed up the band's lineup again. In 1991, Seattle grunge bands were taking over and 80's hair bands lost their appeal. During this time, a new version of the L.A. Guns released Hollywood Vampire, a great album released at the wrong time. Crystal Eyes was chosen as the second single, it crashed and burned, yet remains one of the best unknown power ballads of all-time.

"THE PRICE" TWISTED SISTER

Back when I first started my website, I added my choice as the greatest 80's rock song to never make the charts. Dee Snider and the boys lost the makeup, discarded any gimmicks, and showed the world that they had substance. Check out my earlier post.

The Original Princess of R&B: Aaliyah, Mary Jane Girls, Joe Budden

2012-08-15T00:00:00.000-04:00

"MISS YOU" AALIYAH

The first week of my first full year teaching high school, one of my students was crying at the start of class. I asked her what was wrong? She told me that her favorite singer, Aaliyah, had just died in a plane crash. Twelve years ago, in the Bahamas after filming her "Rock The Boat" video, we witnessed another tragic case of a loss of an iconic artist on the rise. Like Selena, so much unfulfilled potential, both saw major success in their short career and were on the verge of reaching their full potential. Aaliyah was nicknamed the "princess of R&B" starting with her R Kelly produced debut CD, Age Ain't Nothing But A Number, at the age of 14! It was one of the best R&B albums of the 90's. She only lived 22 years but sold close to 30 million records worldwide. Here's a beautiful tribute video including so many of her peers, friends, and family.

"IN MY HOUSE" MARY JANE GIRLS

Coming off the hits, Super Freak and Give It To Me Baby, Rick James was such a big star on Motown in the early 80's that he had almost free reign to do whatever he wanted. Produce a song sung by Eddie Murphy? Sure thing, Mr James! Rick wanted to produce a solo album for one of his female backup singers. As luck would have it, the solo record became a group project for Rick's proteges, the Mary Jane Girls. They scored big with "All Night Long" and "Candy Man" on their first record, then came their second release and the sexy Top 10 smash, "In My House". The PMRC (the group that wanted warning labels on records) added this song to their "Filthy Fifteen" as records to ban from radio. Despite their efforts, the song became a worldwide best-seller.

"SURVIVOR" JOE BUDDEN

Rap music's "beef" battles are notorious for two artists going head-to-head lyrically dissing each other. Sometimes the stakes get high such as Tupac's "Hit Em Up", which some say played a role in his murder. Joe Budden is a Jersey rapper who's been in countless beef battles with major rap stars including Jay-Z, The Game, Busta Rhymes, G-Unit, and the Wu Tang Clan. "Beef" battles are fairly unique to rap, you never heard about Donnie from New Kids on The Block gunning down one of the Backstreet Boys. "Survivor" is actually a song of hope and determination with radio friendly lyrics, wish Joe would have released more like this.

2012 Olympic Theme Song: Dizzee Rascal, Love And Theft, Chris Rene

2012-08-14T00:00:00.000-04:00

"SCREAM" DIZZEE RASCAL Ft. PEPPER

First he had the theme to the 2010 World Cup with his smash hit, "Shout", featured on a previous blog. Now, Dizzee is back with the theme of the 2012 London Olympic Games. For those unfamiliar with Dizzee, he's a British rapper, the son of parents from Ghana and Nigeria. He has a fast rapping style called Garage MC'ing and experimental beats including metal guitars, ringtones, and video game sounds have been used on his songs. Dizzee performed his song, "Bonkers" at the opening ceremony of the 2012 games in front of One Billion viewers!

"ANGEL EYES" LOVE & THEFT

When it comes down to tough choices, finding the best of both worlds is often the ultimate option. When it comes to the perfect woman, Usher described her as "a lady in the street and a freak in the bed". One of hottest new country music bands, Love & Theft, describe her in a similar but more subtle way: "Saturday night she’s rockin’ out by the bonfire, Flirting from that tail gate and crankin’ up the dial, Come Sunday mornin’ she’ll be singing with the choir,Drivin’ me crazy with that kiss me smile-------
There’s a little bit of devil in those angel eyes
She’s a little bit of heaven with a wild side."

"TROUBLE" CHRIS RENE

Simon Cowell's X-Factor is about to start their second season in the U.S. New judges, Britney Spears and Demi Lovato, have been described as divas with their biting criticism of the new singers trying out for the show. Chris Rene stole the heart of many on the first season with his autobiographical hit, Lil Homie. The song was dedicated to his little boy and described Chris getting clean from drugs and wanting to make his little boy proud. He's back with a new single, Trouble, that has a perfect Jason Mraz-like Top 40 hook and will have you smiling and singing along.

Breaking Benjamin Discography: Favorite Song On Each CD

2012-08-13T00:00:00.000-04:00

2002 "SKIN" from SATURATE

Benjamin Burnley and his band, Breaking Benjamin, have released only four CDs in ten years but each collection has generated platinum selling sales and received critically acclaimed reviews. Their debut, Saturate, featured Rock Radio favorites, Polyamorous and Skin. They tackled two covers, Depeche Mode's Enjoy The Silence and Queen's Who Wants To Live Forever. I'm going with Skin, ironically Benjamin hates his own song and has said on stage that he won't sing along with the audience! Talk about a diva move there! They wanted Medicate as the single, the label won and picked Skin.

2004 "SOONER OR LATER" from WE ARE NOT ALONE

The band's success piqued the curiousity of Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins. Billy helped with their 2nd CD and the Corgan-produced "Rain" was a popular radio hit. Lead single, So Cold, was added to the Hellboy Soundtrack and Blow Me Away was the theme song to the epic video game, Halo 2. The song that gets the most plays on my iTunes is "Sooner Or Later", love that intense line, "Your scream is burning through my veins"

2006 "DIARY OF JANE" from PHOBIA

Benjamin Burnley has a fear of flying, hence they poked fun at by naming their third CD, Phobia. With heavy promotion and a killer lead single, The Diary Of Jane, record sales were out of control, as the CD went straight to #1. Their sound was becoming more aggressive, Until The End (on a previous blog) features a Burnley death scream in the mix. Capitalizing on their increased popularity, Breaking Benjamin released a concert DVD to follow up the CD. The Diary Of Jane is the band's biggest selling single and their only #1 hit. The video has an ironic twist at the end, if you missed it, please check it out!

DAILY MUSIC TRIVIA: Which band have Breaking Benjamin co-headlined two separate major tours? Yesterday:

2009 "WITHOUT YOU" from DEAR AGONY

Breaking Benjamin continued to grow and continued with their flirtation with a nu-metal sound hinted on Phobia especially on tracks like Crawl. On a previous blog, I shared "I Will Not Bow" which exploded on Rock Radio and video channels. The title track and Give Me A Sign showed they could sing a ballad that still rocked hard. "Without You" is probably my favorite song by the band for adding up all of the elements that I love from Breaking Benjamin into one song. Great love song lyrics with dramatic nu-metal breakdowns, killer screams, yet a melodic soft overall tone. Sadly the band is on hiatus, Benjamin's been fitting an illness and fired the other group members, so who knows if future CD's are coming, it's been 3 years already.

High Heels, Sneakers, and Stilettos, Best songs about Shoes: Elvis Presley, Run DMC, The Eagles, Kelly Picker

2012-08-12T00:00:00.000-04:00

"MY ADIDAS" RUN D.M.C.

Old school rap at its finest. You better be singing along here! Run DMC made Adidas the go-to sneakers of the mid 80's until Michael Jordan's Spike Lee commercials. Come on, who doesn't love this rap "they're black and white, white with black stripe, the ones I like to wear when I rock the mic." My first concert that I paid money to see was a young LL Cool J, The Beastie Boys, and the headliners, Run D.M.C. Of course during My Adidas, people in the crowd were waving their shoes over their head. Even though I'm partial to retro Nike and Jordan brand shoes, this song always described my sneaker obsession. Run sings about having 50 pairs of Adidas, I'm not far off.

DAILY MUSIC TRIVIA: Run DMC recorded a CD with multiple guest stars called Crown Royal. What song did they sing with Kid Rock? Yesterday: Todd Rundgren

"BLUE SUEDE SHOES" ELVIS PRESLEY

"Well, it's one for the money, Two for the show, Three to get ready, Now go, go, go!" The epitome of cool, Elvis in '68, black leather outfit, ultimate swagger, his signature hip shakes, and he's even playing guitar on "Blue Suede Shoes". Elvis was in comeback mode on these live shows and he re-established his role as The King with electric performances that worked the crowds into a frenzy. These TV special performances preceded MTV's Unplugged and opened up bands performing intimate shows with their fans. One question though for the ladies, would you really be impressed by a guy who not only wears blue suede shoes but he's so obsessively worried about getting them scuffed up?

"RED HIGH HEELS" KELLY PICKLER

Oh Kelly, she is 100% a love her or hate her kind of artist. Yes, I can see how her voice can be annoying. Her innocent, dumb blonde routine on American Idol either made you laugh and love her or you couldn't wait to see her kicked off the show. I didn't think her talent was incredible but her chemistry with Simon Cowell and her sex kitten style had me totally rooting for Kelly. Her first big hit, Red High Heels, is a great kiss-off breakup song. Love the line, "I put up a barbed wire fence around my heart, Baby, just to keep you out. Well, you thought I'd wait around forever But, baby, get real I just kicked you to the curb in my red high heels."

"THOSE SHOES" THE EAGLES

Stripper anthem: "You get whatever you choose, oh no, you can't do that, once you started wearing those shoes." From their 1980 CD, The Long Run, Don Henley and Glenn Frey trades lines about the singles scene. Guys being like sharks trying to pick up and prey on the sexy women in the high heels "with the little ankle straps". And women wielding their power over men, standing up for themselves, and not taking any more crap. It's easily the sexiest song in The Eagles catalog especially with Don Felder using the talkbox that Joe Walsh used superbly on Rocky Mountain Way.

70's Soft Rock: AM Radio Favorites by England Dan And John Ford Coley

2012-08-11T00:00:00.000-04:00

DAILY MUSIC TRIVIA QUESTION: What 70's rock icon wrote "Love Is The Answer" for the band? Yesterday: Don't Stop Believin' by Journey

AM Radio in the 1970's was the decade of singer/songwriters. The era of Soft rock, contemporary hits, that didn't rock as hard yet managed to get those lyrics forever stuck in our heads. Yes, they're corny by today's standards but a well-written song lives eternal.

Bands like the Eagles, Bread, America, and singers like Elton John, James Taylor, and Carole King became chart toppers. One band often overlooked was the highly successful duo of England Dan & John Ford Coley. FIVE memorable top 10 singles that have that timeless quality of love song sentiment with a big chorus and an unforgettable melody. Give today's songs a try, you'll take a trip down memory lane and remember a time when simple love songs ruled the airwaves.

"I'D REALLY LOVE TO SEE YOU TONIGHT"

"IT'S SAD TO BELONG TO SOMEONE ELSE WHEN THE RIGHT ONE COMES ALONG"

"LOVE IS THE ANSWER"

Dan Seals, the younger brother of Jim Seals (from Seals & Croft) went on to have a number of big country hits after the duo disbanded. "Bop" and "Meet Me In Montana" with Marie Osmond were his biggest country hits. Dan's cousin, Brady, was a lead singer for Little Texas. Sadly, Dan Seals passed away from mantle cell lymphoma in 2009 but what a legacy of music.

"NIGHTS ARE FOREVER WITHOUT YOU"

"WE'LL NEVER HAVE TO SAY GOODBYE AGAIN"

Fifty Shades Of Grey, Animal House Meets Twisted Sister: Enigma, Alabama 3, Rebelution

2012-08-10T00:00:00.002-04:00

"PRINCIPLES OF LUST" (Full) ENIGMA

Summer 2012, women have had their share of stimulation with the book release of "Fifty Shades Of Grey" and Magic Mike on film. Fifty Shades has been a phenomena igniting massive book sales. The story of a literature student named Anastacia interviewing a successful business entrepreneur with erotic interests that capture her fascination. The couple embarks on a tantalizing, daring affair, that challenges their desires and hidden secrets. In one scene, Mr Grey gives Anastacia an iPad with this sensual 90's song by Enigma.

"WE'RE NOT GOING TAKE IT" TWISTED SISTER

School starts back in a week, oh no! To get you in the mood, here's Niedermeyer (from Animal House) as the scariest new teacher you'd ever want to see: "Hello students, school has begun, the summer is over. I am in command. Awwww... What was that? For that little outburst, each and every one of you will spend three hours of detention TODAY immediately after school in the basement. What do you think you're doing? Twisted Sister? What kind of a man desecrated a defenseless textbook? I've got a good mind to slap your fat face. You are destroying your life with that garbage. Alright Mr Sister, I want you to tell me, no, better yet, Stand Up and tell the class, what do you want to do with your life?"

"WOKE UP THIS MORNING" ALABAMA 3

Want to feel like a badass, crank up The Sopranos theme song and let the music take over. Like the theme to HBO's True Blood, Alabama 3 create a deep Louisiana blues jam that oozes with Tony Soprano attitude. "Woke up this mornin' got yourself a gun. Mama always said you'd be the chosen one. She said, 'you're one in million, you to to burn to shine', you were born under a bad sign with a blue moon in your eyes." Alabama 3 goes by A3 if you're looking for more music by the British band. I've read their live shows are incredible with the way they mix rock, country, blues, and gospel plus a little humor mixed in.

Daily Music Trivia: What song is played during the last two minutes of The Sopranos finale? Yesterday: The Smashing Pumpkins appeared on Homerpalooza.

"HEART LIKE A LION" REBELUTION

Following in the footsteps of Sublime, many surfer reggae bands picked up their slack since Brad's death. Bands like Pepper, 311, Slightly Stoopid, Rebelution, and Iration blend their California and Hawaiian roots into a mix of rock, ska, and reggae. Rebelution has released four CD's in the last six years. "Heart Like A Lion" has always inspired me, the song comes from their 2007 CD, Courage To Grow. Rebelution's reggae vibe is perfect chillout music to kick back, unwind, relieve some stress, and put some positive energy back into your life. Last Saturday before school starts back, so I'm heading to the Gulf beach this weekend and you know I've got my iTunes beach playlist with some Marley, Pepper, RHCP, Rebelution, ska, and reggae, ready to play!

Controversy and Carrie Underwood, Danica Patrick joins Miranda Lambert, The Wallflowers, Smashing Pumpkins

2012-08-09T00:00:00.001-04:00

"BLOWN AWAY" CARRIE UNDERWOOD

Who would have guessed that America's country music princess, Carrie Underwood, would be skirting controversy with her latest video. On her new CD, she released "Two Black Limousines" that discussed two women dealing with a guy cheating on both of them. Here on "Blown Away" she created a darker version of the Wizard Of Oz. "There's not enough rain in Oklahoma to wash away the sins of that house". Carrie said the acting in this video was so intense, she left with actual bruises after filming.

"FASTEST GIRL IN TOWN" MIRANDA LAMBERT

Back in December, I posted a lyric video of this song and called it my pick as the best song on Miranda's new CD. Check out the lyrics at my prior post. Here's the premiere of Mrs. Blake Shelton's new video! I don't spoil the fun but you just know when Miranda and NASCAR's Danica Patrick stroll into the bar, trouble is brewing! Listen for the lightning quick guitar solo at the end of the song. The video reminds me of Nicolas Cage and Angelina Jolie in "Gone In 60 Seconds".

"REBOOT THE MISSION" THE WALLFLOWERS with MICK JONES (of The Clash)

I absolutely love everything about this video! First, it's the return of Jakob Dylan and The Wallflowers. Like his father, Jakob's voice is one of a kind. They add in Mick Jones of The Clash to create a hybrid mix of music that sounds like Big Audio Dynamite with a little reggae vibe. To add to the retro 90's sound, the video features some of the best moonwalking, breakdancing, and popping and locking since Ice-T in "Breakin'".

DAILY MUSIC TRIVIA: The Smashing Pumpkins performed at what concert on an episode of The Simpsons? Yesterday: young Lindsay Lohan dressed up as garbage on Late Night With David Letterman

"VIOLET RAYS" SMASHING PUMPKINS

While we're bringing back classic 90's rock heroes like the Wallflowers, Billy Corgan and The Smashing Pumpkins are back with an impressive NEW CD called Oceania. The nine minute title track is epic with swirling guitars, a beautiful atmosphere, and one of those songs destined to be a concert favorite. "Violet Rays" rocks hard highlighted by new drummer, Mike Byrne, a perfect compliment to Billy's lyrics. The new CD doesn't have that big radio ready single but taken as a 13 track compilation, it's one of the best new releases of 2012.

Lindsey Lohan starring in the new Lady Gaga video,new Amy Winehouse, Rilo Kiley, Human League cover,

2012-08-08T00:00:00.000-04:00

"OUR DAY WILL COME" AMY WINEHOUSE
It was two years ago, July 23rd, when we learned that Amy Winehouse had died with a blood alcohol level five times the legal limit. Newsweek described Amy as "the perfect storm of sex kitten, raw talent, and poor impulse control." Regardless of the Chelsea Handler jokes, Amy's musical talent was unquestioned. The first female Brit to win Best Song, Best New Artist, and Record Of The Year at the Grammy Awards. With her beehive hair and tight dress style, reminscent of Ronnie Spector of the Ronettes, a voice like Sarah Vaughn, and an attitude like the Sex Pistols, Amy was one of a kind. Here's her cover of a 60's classic by Ruby & The Romantics released on her Lioness: Hidden Treasures CD after her death.

"RUMORS" LINDSEY LOHAN

In a match made in heaven, Lady Gaga and Lindsey Lohan had a "sleepover" in NYC. Now, Lindsey is starring in Gaga's upcoming new video. Read more at Fuse. Paris Hilton recorded an album, Kim Kardashian released a single, even one of the Real Housewives of New Jersey, Melissa Gorga, has a club hit. But before all of these came Lindsey Lohan. The original Disney princess has lived one crazy life in her first 26 years. After Freaky Friday and Mean Girls, Lindsey put out her debut CD, Speak, in 2003. Critics pretty much agreed, Lindsey CAN sing just not amazingly well. But hey, if it works for Britney, why not give it a try! Lindsey's videos for "Rumors" and "First" became huge hits on MTV's Total Request Live spurred on by surprise drop in studio visits from Lindsey. "Rumors" was believable, a song about the paparazzi following her every move and how the same media that makes you a star can haunt you afterwards.

"PORTIONS FOR FOXES" RILO KILEY

Jenny Lewis, leader of Rilo Kiley, has such stage presence and a clever and provocative song writing style. Check out these opening lyrics: There's blood in my mouth 'cause i've been biting my tongue all week. I keep on talking trash, but i never say anything. And the talking leads to touching,And the touching leads to sex, And then there is no mystery left." The title "Portions For Foxes" is actually a Bible quote about becoming leftovers for the animals, it's a great metaphor for damaged relationships and Jenny sings about hanging around too long with a guy who's bad for you. One of the best indie rock songs on the early 2000's.

DAILY MUSIC TRIVIA: Lindsay's first TV appearance was on David Letterman dressed in costume for Halloween, what was her costume? Yesterday: In Jan 2001, Jennifer Lopez was the first artist to have the #1 Album and #1 Movie at the same time.

"DON'T YOU WANT ME" CHIA PET

Hidden Treasure Alert: Here's a virtual unknown cover of the Human League #1 dance hit. Totally stripped of any club beat, Chia Pet changed the melody and ups the emotional ante on their version of "Don't You Want Me". The song appears on a compilation CD called "Freedom Of Choice" which was a fundraising effort for the cause. Jane Pratt, the editor of both Sassy and Jane magazines, was a member of the band. Here's a homemade video of the 90's cover.

Hottest New Videos: Nicki Minaj, Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, and YouTube Video Game

2012-08-07T00:00:00.000-04:00

"POUND THE ALARM" NICKI MINAJ

Who's had a better year than Nicki Minaj? In less than 48 hours, "Pound The Alarm" had 2,000,000 hits on YouTube. Nicki voiced a character in the #1 movie in the U.S., Ice Age: Continental Drift, appeared on the Super Bowl Halftime Show, and guested on many big hits including songs by Britney, Lil Wayne, Will.i.Am, and David Guetta. An unprecedented run for Nicki's debut CD, Pink Friday (and the reloaded version), eight songs making the Billboard Top 100, an all-time record for any solo female artist. Nicki's even starring on TV in commercials for Pepsi, Adidas, and Mattel for her own Barbie doll. The new single features amazing Caribbean colors inspired by her Trinidad homeland. What a party! Love the confetti, the thumping bass, "burn the floor", easily one of my favorite Minaj songs.

"GET IT STARTED" PITBULL Ft. SHAKIRA

Talk about a hot collaboration, Colombia's finest export, Shakira, teams up again with Pitbull, the pride of Miami and Cuba for a brand new club ready dance track. They previously worked together on Rabiosa, this song is even better. Captivating video with some international intrigue, a woman on the run, beautiful people in amazing tropical locations, and fireworks, what's not to like! Shakira is back with the blonde hairstyle and looks amazing in a gold dress while overlooking the city. Pitbull's raps might be wearing thin but he managed to sneak in a great rhyme about the "thrilla in Manilla and knocking em out like Pacquiao."

"GOIN' IN" JENNIFER LOPEZ ft. FLO RIDA
One of the most stylish videos of the year. Jennifer sporting rhinestone covered lips, two beautiful white wolves, old school breakdancers, lasers, MC Hammer pants, a closeup on Jennifer's most famous ASSet, pink fire hydrants shooting out paint, all in the first minute of the video! If you imagined what a Jennifer Lopez and Flo Rida collaboration would sound like then you'll be in no surprise hearing the new song. It's pop, dance fluff but everyone loves a little junk food now and then. I really enjoyed the Lil Jon addition on the hook. Fun summer song that will appease J Lo's fans and give the haters something new to jump all over.

DAILY MUSIC TRIVIA: What historic "first" was Jennifer the first to accomplish in Jan. 2001? Yesterday: Christian Science

From YouTube "BAND SLAM",
"IRIS" by KIMMIE SMILES

Become your own music talent scout. YouTube has an addicting new game called "Music Slam" where you're given two homemade video submissions and you choose the one that is the best. If you guess the most popular, you get another set to compare. See if you can beat my record of 610 points! One submission I enjoyed was "Iris" by Kimmie Smiles, although once the song ends at 3:01, stop the video! Unless you want to hear her ramble on about her friends, violet eyes, and potato chips.

Metallica Discography (80's): Favorite Song For Each 80's CD

2012-08-06T00:00:00.000-04:00

1983 "WHIPLASH" from KILL 'EM ALL

Back in 1981, four guys from San Fransisco shared their love of 70's hard rock and thrash metal and formed Metallica. Lars Ulrich was the leader and posted an ad in a newspaper that caught James Hetfield's attention. Along with guitarist Dave Mustaine and bassist Cliff Burton, they released a demo called No Life 'Til Leather. Soon afterwards Mustaine was kicked out and formed Megadeth and Kirk Hammett became the new lead guitarist. Six of those demo songs made their way to Metallica's debut, Kill 'Em All. "Hit The Lights" and "The Four Horsemen" were the first two tracks, a one-two punch of thrash metal. My favorite track is "Whiplash", a speed metal classic that is the perfect song to introduce to people to the early Metallica sound.

1984 "FADE TO BLACK" from RIDE THE LIGHTNING

Kerrang! Magazine lauded their second album for its "maturity and musical intelligence". Unlike some hard rock bands, Metallica's sound was intricate, complex, and despite the raw sound were very technically superior records. A mistake was made during pressing and if you can ever find a green copy of the album (pictured here) buy it! It's worth a LOT of money to collectors. "For Whom The Bell Tolls" is metal perfection but my favorite is "Fade To Black" their first power ballad. Unlike the other 80's love song ballads, this song discussed contemplating suicide and thinking about our mortality, lyrics par for the course from a band that didn't want to sell-out (yet?).

1986 "MASTER OF PUPPETS" from MASTER OF PUPPETS

After the release of this album, bassist Cliff Burton tragically died when their tour bus flipped over in Sweden. His last album with Metallica has been listed by most music journalists as one of the best metal albums of all-time and clearly the most influential thrash metal album ever. Metallica did not release any videos despite MTV and label pressure. One writer said, "they didn't bother with hooks or melody", it wasn't an album to promote singles. "Master Of Puppets"opens with Battery, my favorite song and it's on another blog. The title track is the most played song ever on their concert setlist. That chant of "Master! Master!" is unforgettable. The lyrics are about Kirk's cocaine addiction problems, but it's also one of his greatest moments as Total Guitar magazine credits the solo in Master Of Puppets as #1 all-time.

DAILY MUSIC TRIVIA: James Hetfield's lyrics were often inspired by his family's strict religious background. What religion were James' parents?

1987 "HELPLESS" from $5.98 EP- GARAGE DAYS REVISTED

Cliff Burton's death opened a vital spot in the band's lineup. Jason Newsted from Flotsam and Jetsum was inducted into the band. The band describe the hazing and how Jason was always "the new guy" even though he was with the band for sixteen years! The band released a five song EP of covers by 70's British metal bands like The Misfits (Last Caress), Killing Joke (The Wait), and my favorite, Helpless, a Diamond Head cover. Like the CD's title, the sound is garage rock mixed with some speed metal. Helpless is a song about getting on stage and giving it everything you've got.

1988 "ONE" from ...AND JUSTICE FOR ALL

Metallica was now a critic's darling, arena headliner, and ready for major success. "And Justice For All" was their biggest selling CD of the 80's complete with a cover of the Statue of Liberty all tied up. The album wasn't commercial with overt political themes and lengthy tracks. There were only nine songs and seven of these were over six minutes long. The title track and "To Live Is To Die" were almost ten minutes EACH! The crown jewel of the album is "One". Opening with the sound of helicopters, gunfire, and a buildup to Kirk Hammett's greatest guitar solo. You all know the solo - a machine gun blast of metal history. The song creeped into the Top 40 and Metallica made their first MTV video. Of course the video was metal, showcasing a B&W 50's movie, called Johnny Got His Gun, about a severely injured soldier who had no sense of sight, sound, or touch. Guitar World calls the guitar solo, #1 All-Time.