That's Fire

SXSW 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 02:26:00 +0000

Austin, Texas, the self-proclaimed “Live Sound Capital of the World” host one of the biggest festivals titled South by Southwest (SXSW). SXSW incorporates technology, film and music is a span of three weeks. Though the technology and film sections of the festival bring in thousands from across the world, it’s the music portion that steals the show.

In a land of Indie, up incoming artist, this year, a few big names stole the show. Shady 2.0 showcase included new G-Unit artists Paris and Kidd Kidd, plus Action Bronson, Black Hippy's Schoolboy Q, Don Trip and Big K.R.I.T. and Shady Records signees, Slaughterhouse. Yelewolf, another, on the rise superstar signed to Em’s label had to cancel his appearance due to injury. Oh, and I forgot to mention that hip-hop moguls 50 cent and Eminem were there.

50 cent performed his Get Rich or Die Tryin’ album in its entirety. According to MTV.com:

Throughout the week there had been whispers of an Eminem guest appearance during Fif's set, and Marshall Mathers confirmed those rumors on the second song of the night. Fifty rolled right into "Patiently Waiting," spitting his first verse and within seconds Em burst onto the stage, delivering the hook and his verse, casually decked out in jeans a baseball cap and his signature hoodie (MTV.com, 2012)

Eminem and 50 weren’t the only big surprise during this year’s SXSW festival. Lil’ Wayne also had a big show up his sleeves. He surrounded himself with those of his YMCMB camp. During the show, Lil’ Wayne announced the signing of Mystikal. Mystikal, once signed to No Limit under the leadership of Master P is trying to revive his career after a prison sentence.

The signing of Mystikal is odd to be. His style doesn’t fit the YMCMB camp. However, it’s another way for the business minded Lil’ Wayne and Birdman to step out of the box and add a different flavor to their already well established record label.

References:

Nadeska, Alexis. (2012).Lil Wayne Brings His YMCMB Family To SXSW. MTV. Retrieved March 17, 2012, http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1681216/lil-wayne-sxsw.jhtml

Nadeska, Alexis. (2012). 50 Cent and Eminem Join Forces At SXSW. MTV. Retrieved March 18, 2012, http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1681280/50-cent-eminem-sxsw-2012.jhtml

Image from sxsw.com

AIDS: Not Only In The Movies

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 04:32:00 +0000

I recently watched a film about a gay con artist living in the era when HIV/AIDS was first discovered. The film’s title “I Love You Phillip Morris” indicated by title to most viewers a film about the founders of a cigarette mogul. The film was not about that at all, impressive marketing strategy.

Jim Carey’s character was in and out of prison and quite the promiscuous fellow, especially for his era. Towards the end of the film, we find out that his character had AIDS but his lover did not. At first it spoke to me about the fact that the HIV virus is not so easily transmitted and is essentially a predominantly weak virus. Other viewers would question why Carey’s characters’ lover never caught the virus considering all of the intercourse they were presumed to have had (including some very graphic scenes). I didn’t question it, but others most likely did.

Also, Carey’s character is a con artist, and he actually fakes his own death in the state of Texas in order to get out of prison once again. (I hope I am not ruining the plot line for anyone, but see the film. It’s well done). One of the lines that resonated the most with me was one about how the state of Texas didn’t once actually test Carey’s character for HIV, Assuming his promiscuous gay lifestyle and the fact that he was in prison put him at high risk in the eyes of the majority of medical practitioners first studying HIV/AIDS in the era when the virus was fairly new and still extremely mysterious to the medical field. I found the irony in the brutality behind this statement. I also questioned why his lover actually had to hear through the grapevine that he had acquired the virus and was in a critical state. Wouldn’t you think that the lover that he was known to have co-resided with would have been among the first to be notified? Scary indeed. This piece of the plot line both confused and angered me. This referenced the fact that medical practitioners and original CDC reports associated such a stigma with homosexual men in the U.S. that they didn’t even bother to notify his lover. Of course this may have been something that they simply omitted from the film or changed at the last second for dramatic affect, my sociological ‘antennas’ on the lookout for the discourse (or lack thereof) of medical practitioners regarding HIV/AIDS were fully functioning.

Even though the movie was fictional in every sense of the word, it carried some heavy socio-political messages about HIV/AIDS, both masked and obvious.

I Got 99 Problems, But A Baby's Not 1!

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 04:12:00 +0000

“If you're havin' girl problems I feel bad for you son

I got 99 problems but a BABY ain't one”

9 months after Jay Z and Beyonce announce their pregnancy, they give birth to their first child, Blue Ivy Carter, a healthy 7lb. baby girl. Rumor has it that the power couple rented out a wing at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York for an allege $1.3 million which included special renovations including a bulletproof door. The hospital denies such accusations. Jay and B describe the experience as heavenly. Twitter went wild as their friends, family and fans praise and welcome baby Blue into the world.

However, not everyone was excited for the baby’s birth. Anger parents who where also giving birth claimed that the hospital had them on lockdown. 'They just used the hospital like it was their own and nobody else mattered,' blasted new dad Neil Coulon, who said his efforts to see his premature, newborn twins in the neonatal ICU were disrupted at least four times by the arrival of Beyonce and her crew.

Pictures of Blue Ivy Carter have not hit the surface. But when they do, a bidding war will come. Prices are estimated to stretch well past $1 million. To spend that much on a baby picture sounds crazy, but it’s nothing in comparison to the $10 Million People and Hello! were said to have paid for rights to Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s twin Knox Leon and Vivienne Marcheline. The previous baby record before that was $6 million, which was the price Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony sold their baby pictures for.

After the birth of his daughter, Jay Z did what he does best; he hit the studio and recorded a track. The track titled “Glory” can be found here:

http://soundcloud.com/warhol2011/glory-jay-z-feat-blue-ivy-carter

The proud father expresses his feelings in a very catchy rap. At the end of the song, you hear snippets of Blue. It’s a beautiful sound indeed.

Welcome to the world, Blue Ivy Carter! We await your greatness.

Resources: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2084878/Beyonce-baby-Blue-Ivy-Carter-taken-home-1-3m-hospital-stay.html#ixzz1j8s51uHD

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/business/bear_market_for_blue_ivy_carter_Bi4HN4iR5ipDGXOBUB9MJM

Music On The Brain

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 04:28:00 +0000

Music is part of our everyday life. We listen to it while driving, working out, doing homework or simply just to past time. We listen to music when we are sad and depressed. We listen to music when we are happy and full of energy.

Did you ever wonder why? There’s more to it than just liking a particular song. Music has an affect on our brain.

Growing up, I always heard that listening to Mozart while studying will help you perform well on a test. However, there are some studies that prove against it. It’s also stated that certain music has a negative affect while trying to retain numbers or list. Lifehacker states,

“When you listen to music you know, it stimulates the hippocampus, which handles long-term storage in the brain. Doing so can also bring out relevant memories you made while listening to a particular song. So, even though the Mozart-effect has essentially been disproven, the idea that forming a new memory with music, and then using the same music again later to recall the memory still appears to be a sound idea. If you're having trouble remembering something, you might have better luck if you play the same music you were listening to when you first made the thought.”

Did you know music can boost your immune system? You can put away the Vitamin C. Well, I wouldn’t go that far, but music does relieve stress, which in return will make you feel better. Dr Ronny Enk suggests, we think the pleasant state that can be induced by music leads to special physiological changes which eventually lead to stress reduction or direct immune enhancement (lifehacker.com, 2011). So if you’re starting to feel ill, insist on listening to music to make you very well.

One of the most common uses for music is during exercise. If you don’t listen to music while working out, I suggest you grab your iPod before heading to the gym. Upbeat music is known to increase exercising strength by keeping you focus.

No matter what genre of music you listen to, if it makes you happy, then it’s working for you. Who’s to tell you what you need to listen to. Support the industry and lets keep music alive!

Resources:

http://lifehacker.com/5865032/how-music-affects-the-brain-and-how-you-can-use-it-to-your-advantage?popular=true

What Good Is A Voice If It Can't Be Heard?

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 23:56:00 +0000

In a world where following trends make you “cool.” In a world where we all try to fit in, very few stand out. She may look normal from the outside, but she is much different within. Her powerful, uplifting and breathtaking vocals have made her a leader in today’s pop culture.

Adele, 23 years old has risen to great success, gaining tons of radio time and selling out shows across the world.

In the prime of her career, her amazing voice has been a gift and a curse. Adele cancelled the remaining gigs on her tour. Austin, Orlando, Miami and Nashville are a few among the canceled shows.

Adele is having throat surgery. Rumors quickly spread. It was once thought that the British singer had throat cancer. Adele insured her fans that the rumor was completely false. To set the record straight, her reps have released a statement, saying: “We would like to reiterate that Adele is to undergo surgery for a hemorrhaged vocal chord. All reports regarding any other condition are 100% false.” (Perezhilton.com, 2011)

She will recover quickly, but it’s very unfortunate that the remaining 2011 tour dates have been canceled.

Adele reaches out to her fans on her website with a sincere apology:

“im still not well enough. i woke up feeling a bit better but not by a lot, but decided to head towards cardiff anyway in the hope id be able to sing tonight. half way there i realised it was unrealistic and so have come back home to rest. i apologise profusely, i know many of you would have travelled to cardiff today for the show. im so so sorry! i need to wait until the infection has cleared up, theres no use battling through it because itll only make me weaker. im still breathless and my chest is disgusting. believe me im doing everything i can to get better asap i promise. its a bug and i have to wait til its gone. im not doing half hearted performances for anyone. if i try do a show like this itll be rubbish and i wont be coming back this year and i dont want leave you like that. if i postpone ill come back very soon when im well and do it how i normally do it! please forgive me, i hate cancelling things as you know. this has nothing to do with my throat before. im sure lots of you feel like this as well, its going round. see you very soon adele xx”

2012 better watch out. Adele will be back, and better than ever. When her tickets go on sale, I’ll definitely be one of the first ones in line. Adele, get well soon!

Say Cheese!

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 02:38:00 +0000

Stars deal with paparazzi on a daily basis. For many stars, paparazzi have taken embarrassing pictures and/or videos of them, which in turn cause media controversy. What happens when you’re a victim of your own paparazzi act?

Lets ask…

Another wave of leaked X-rated photos hit the Internet. The newest victim: Scarlett Johansson. The celebrity sex symbol has pictures surfacing on many gossip websites. The actress is seen posing nude in multiple pictures. One, covered in a towel reviling her backside and the other fully nude laying on a bed. It’s not clear to whom the pictures were addressed to, if to anyone at all.

Like many celebrities in recent history, Johansson has been targeted by a group of hackers. The hackers are claimed to have hacked into her cell phone account leaking nude pictures and videos.

Scarlett Johansson has teamed up with the FBI to do an investigation on the case and catch these tech savvy criminals. FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller tells E! News that the agency is on the case.

"The FBI is investigating a person or group responsible for a series of cyber intrusions of high profile figures," Eimiller says. "This would include many devices—could mean a computer, desktop, laptop, iPad, cell phone…intrusions into personal online accounts too."

Johansson is not the first victim and will probably not be the last. It’s estimated that the hackers have broken into over 50 other woman celebrity accounts including Ali Larter, Vanessa Hudgens, Miley Cyrus and Jessica Alba.

Ok, so I couldn’t find her to ask, but it’s simple, if you do not want nude pictures or videos of yourself leaking on to the web then don’t take them. It happens way too often. Now, if you do, well, then that’s a different story.

To find out more on the story go to: http://www.eonline.com/news/scarlett_johansson_fighting_mad_over/263666#ixzz1YMT5YyqW

Today's Announcements Are brought To You By The Following Podcasts...

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 02:55:00 +0000

ELU Episode 21 – Tough Cookies and Heart Attacks:

Mike Tyson has been in the eye of media since he stepped into the ring. As many would know, not all of the publicity has been good. With the exception of the positive publicity of his phenomenal boxing skills, Mike Tyson surrounds himself with controversy. In the recent history, the tribal tattoo on his face has become an argument of copyright infringement. In the movie Hangover 2, one of the characters gets an identical tattoo on his face. The man who designed Mike’s tattoo, Victor Whitmill filed a suit against Warner Brothers for copyright infringement. It’s obvious that is WB is in the wrong, but what kind of price tag do you put on a tattoo design? If the case goes to court, I believe it will be a tough call for the judge. However, like the podcast states, I think WB will just settle with Whitmill outside of the court. This will allow Warner Brothers to continue distributing of the film.

ELU Episode 22 – Violent Games, (anti) Slapps and other painless fun:

The podcast opens up with the Tyson tattoo Case. It has been settled. The film itself has grossed over $500M worldwide. Whitmill’s attorneys will not disclose the amount of the settlement. We all know what that means. It must have been a significant amount of money. My assumption is that Mr. Whitmill might not have to work for the rest of his life

ELU Episode 023 – Monkeying Around with Copyright Law

Gordan follows up with the verdict against Disney by the creators of Who Wants To Be a Millionaire game franchise Celador International. The court originally granted the company $270 million, then the judge increased that to $319 million. Disney is fighting the case, stating that the amount is extreme! Disney filed an appeal to reverse the verdict using five arguments. The first being, the case is astonishing because of the size. Secondly, the judge wrongfully excluded documents that would have been in favor for Walt Disney Company proving that the negotiations between the two companies were more it favor to Celado than the plaintiff led them to believe. Third, the jury judge mistakenly allowed a testimony on inflated damage assessment. Fourth, the jury judge should have taken more responsibility in interpreting the contract as a matter of law. Lastly, the wrong entity filed the appeal. The appeal goes against the court in Sept. I look forward to knowing the outcome of that case. I’ll keep you updated.

For these podcast and more, please visit iTunesU

The podcast were brought to you by Gordan Firemark at Entertainment Law Update.

Machine Gun Kelly: It's Bad Boy, Baby!

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 01:12:00 +0000

Machine Gun Kelly just signed with his EST 19XX gang to Bad Boy/Interscope Records. He flew to New York to met with the one and only P. Diddy. Diddy has been following MGK’s success for a long time coming. He promotes him through Twitter and other social media sites.

MGK is the new face of hip-hop. He raps about life issues and his struggles growing up. He’s a gifted performer and interacts with the crowd. In Cleveland, Ohio, MGK is known as a hometown hero. He’s putting the city on the map. Machine Gun Kelly is the most unique sounding hip-hop artist in the game. His Midwest accent, fast flow and twist of words has led him to musical success. Not only is MGK an extremely talented vocalist and instrumentalist, but he is also an amazing songwriter. His physical appearance sets him apart. Machine Gun Kelly has swagger out the roof. He’s what you call a multimedia artist. From head to toe, MGK is covered with the latest clothing trends. He’s a talented performer and puts on amazing live shows. He was the first rapper to ever win at the Apollo. He has two mix tapes and performs the Cleveland Cavilers theme song.

Machine Gun Kelly isn’t just an artist; he is a movement! He speaks to the troubled youth. His fans related to him on a personal level. MGK has coined the phrases “Lace Up” and “Lets Rage”. You can find these phrases tattooed on his body as well as his fans. Lace up isn’t just a saying; it’s a movement! Lace up your kicks and lets get to work. It’s the hustle. It’s the grind. It’s the struggle. It’s success. LACE UP!

For more on Machine Gun Kelly check the sites below:

MGK announces label deal:

http://www.worldstarhiphop.com/videos/video.php?v=wshhYff1CNsxUpVZA7nW

Website: http://www.mgklaceup.com/

“Get Laced” music video: http://www.mgklaceup.com/index.php?option=com_contushdvideoshare&view=player&id=47&catid=17&id=47

Freestyle: http://www.mgklaceup.com/index.php?option=com_contushdvideoshare&view=player&id=47&catid=17&id=47

Lead You On: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeGGUhKfb-I&playnext=1&list=PL102EAACCCDDF5696

Live Performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUIrsUgkVBs&feature=related

The 27 Club

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 03:50:00 +0000

Amy Winehouse, 27, was found dead on Saturday July 23, 2011.

The talented young star broke the music scene in 2003 with her debut album, Frank. In 2006, Amy introduced her second album, Back to Black. Back to Black was a huge success. The album led to six Grammy Award nominations, winning five. Five Grammys tied her for most won by any female artist.

Amy publicly struggled with drugs and alcohol. Her biggest hit “Rehab” expressed her troubles. Though her autopsy has yet to come in, many speculate that she lost her fight against addiction.

Amy joins an infamous list of extremely talented artist who tragically died at age 27. Club 27 is a name for influential rock musicians who all died at age 27. She follows big names such as Kurt Cobain, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison and Jimi Hendrix. Is the club a tragic coincidence? Many would say yes. However, Kurt Cobain’s mother states otherwise. According to the Washington post, Wendy O’Connor, Cobain’s mother, famously said, “Now he’s gone and joined that stupid club” in 1994. “I told him not to join that stupid club.” There are rumors saying Kurt talked about how he wanted to join the 27 club.

In April, I turned 26. It’s disturbing knowing I am just a year behind them at their time of death. I would hate to see my family and friends go through it. Never would I express to family or friends about ending my life at an early age. It’s selfish.

Now, I do realize that other than Cobain’s death (allegedly), the deaths weren’t planned. It’s just unfortunate to see great talent go to waste. They became icons at 27; just think of what they could have been if they had a “lifetime” of achievements.

References:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/celebritology/post/amy-winehouse-jimi-hendrix-kurt-cobain-and-the-27-club/2011/07/23/gIQAiLAhVI_blog.html

In Planking We Trust

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 19:43:00 +0000

To plank or not to plank, that is the question.

Planking has become a worldwide sensation. The fad dates back to 1997 and is claims to have been invented by Gary Clarkson and Christian Langdon in England. It wasn’t until 2011 when planking reached it’s worldwide status. The word “planking” was coined in Australia. Planking is defined as the art of lying facedown in unusual public spaces and capturing it on camera.

Like all rising sensations, not everyone is welcoming the craze. Many define it as “dumb”, “childish” and according to rapper Xzibit, “racist”. The rapper tweets, “Planking is the dumbest sh*t ever. Planking was a way to transport slaves on ships during the slave trade, it’s not funny. Educate yourselves." Despite the words of Xzibit, many artist love the trend. Artist such as Justin Bieber, Chris Brown, Katy Perry and Flava Flav all have pictures online of them planking.

Photos below are of Chris Brown, Flava Flav and Justin Bieber planking:

Regardless of if you agree or disagree with the fad, we can all agree that it can be dangerous if done too extremely. The most recent fatal accident occurred on May 15^th 2011. An Australia man fall several stories while attempting a plank. Be sure to plank responsibly.

Planking has made its way to social media. On Facebook, planking has over 500,000 likes. The number continues to grow. My news feed is covered in those posting pictures of their attempt to plank.

Like all trends, no one knows how long the planking will be around. However, we do know plankers continue to increase in numbers. It doesn’t just stop at mid-aged adults. Babies, kids, pets and even the elder have joined in on the craze.

Do you plank? Feel free to post your pictures in the comments below.

To see plankers in action, few this news report:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRHnTFesv7c

Music & Mothers

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Sun, 08 May 2011 15:51:00 +0000

There are 2 things in this world that I love unconditionally- my mother and music. Being Mother’s Day and all, today is a chance to celebrate both. Atlantic City brings Mother’s Day Music Festival to its beautiful Boardwalk Hall. The concert packs the house, for those in attendance come to watch and listen to some R&B legends. The line up consists of Charlie Wilson, Keith Sweat and The Whispers. The headliner was originally Teena Marie. However, it’s unfortunate that she suddenly passed away on December 26^th, 2010. Teena was only 54 years young. Despite the horrible news, the show must go on.

As the years past, the concert gains popularity. Last year alone, Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall had to turn away hundreds of fans due to a sold out show. The concert is a great place to take your loving mother on a girl’s night out or a wonderful chance for a gentleman to take his beautiful wife and mother of his children to show appreciation for all they do.

Shout out to all the mothers out there. Everyday should be Mother's Day. I know I couldn’t have done it without mine. In 1985, Sheila Hansen gave birth to a hell raising heavenly son. 1 woman 2 roles: Both, mother and father. She raised 2 boys, 1 girl and no chumps! She taught us respect, integrity, hard work, and to never give up. A kind hearted, loving attitude and passionate behavior make up the first woman I ever loved, my first teacher and my first coach. She never puts herself before her kids or anyone for that matter. For that, I am truly blessed and honored. As the years speed by, what she has done for us, she now does for 5 grand children. None, which are, mine, but 5 active beautiful babies nonetheless. Her wisdom will spread through many generations to come.

I thank you mom for all you have done. God blessed me!

I LOVE YOU!

For more on Atlantic City's Mother's Day Music Festival click here: http://www.atlanticcitynj.com/mediaonline/news_releases_detail.aspx?NewsID=413

I Bring To You: Jay Brooks!

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 03:46:00 +0000

In an industry where sound means everything, Jay Brooks manages to negotiate his self to the top. As an inspiring audio engineer, Jay specializes in a/v sales and event coordination. His main objective is to sell and negotiate prices for rooms and equipment rental.

I sat down with Jay to discuss his negotiation experience and what he has learned while working in the industry.

On a daily basis, Jay says he deals with negative emotions.

“Clients are always trying to get a better deal. Many believe that the prices are too much. I use my experience to defuse the issue. Leverage and power is my tricky tactic. No one in the city offers the deals we have. It allows me negotiate more loosely.”

Jay is always looking for a deal to benefit, both, him and the client. He uses objective criteria everyday.

“I always separate the people from the problem. Separating the people from the problem affects the outcome tremendously. It allows us to come to conclusion much faster, without all the tension. We're able to discuss, identify and understand all interest we have. From there, we negotiate and find common ground, in which we both benefit from.”

As I continue my journey through the entertainment industry, Jay advises that I handle each situation differently and be open-minded.

My interview with Jay brought countless things to my attention. First thing first: Keep business, business. Leave all emotions at the door. Emotions interfere with the logic behind all reasons. An objective criterion is must. It may take awhile to see the other sides’ reason. However, after doing so, you will be able to negotiate and find common ground, in which you both benefit from.

I would like to thank Jay Brooks for taking time out of his busy schedule and proceeding with this interview.

A Music Lovers Crisis

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 00:06:00 +0000

Have you ever had a song stuck in your head, one that you desperately had to hear? What would happen if you couldn’t find the song or CD you were looking for. No need to panic. Pandora is here to the rescue.

Or are they.

Pandora, what many would call the “death of the radio” showed some signs of imperfection.

For those who don’t know, Pandora is a personalized internet radio service that helps you find new music based on your old and current favorites. You can create customized web playlists that attend to your listening needs. It lets you choose an artist and it picks similar artist to complete those playlist.

“OAKLAND, CA—The headquarters of personalized online music provider Pandora remained in a state of chaos Thursday as frantic workers struggled to find a song that 32-year-old Boston subscriber Dave Lipton would enjoy.

Pandora, which allows users to create virtual radio stations according to their individual tastes, confirmed its employees had spent most of the day rummaging desperately through the miles of shelves in the company's massive 700,000-CD storage facility in search of a track to appease the increasingly fickle Lipton.”

Lipton skipped and disliked almost every song he heard. Over 2,900 employees tried to please the listener. As an attempt to satisfy Lipton, Pandora brought in special weapons.

“By noon Thursday, Pandora had decided to bring in a panel of genre-bending musicians to act as consultants on the Lipton case, among them Beck, newcomer songstress Janelle Monáe, and retired avant-rock musician Don Van Vliet, better known as Captain Beefheart.”

Even then, Dave was hard to make happy. Pandora reinsures users that although the radio station has dealt with difficult users in the past, most subscribers are content to listen uncomplainingly to whatever the song-selection team chooses.

As an avid listener of Pandora, I can say, they do an outstanding job of selecting songs catered to users preference. I have many playlist, ranging from all genres.

Read the full article here:

http://www.theonion.com/articles/desperate-pandora-employees-scrambling-to-find-son,17905/

Join Pandora:

http://www.pandora.com/

Who's Idea Is It Really? The Truth Behind The Music

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 05:50:00 +0000

Music. Many would consider it my life. It’s been apart of me since an early age. An age so early where I was too young to buy it, an age where I had to close my ears when profanity was present. Music sculpted me into the person that I am. Music kept me sane. It kept me living.

I am a collector of music. I have devoted my whole life, buying and trading music. I respect and look up to many artists from all genres. I am a fan. I am loyal. I support local and national artist.

I respect artists who are true. I respect those who speak the truth. I respect artists who paint pictures and spread knowledge. Those are reasons why I continue to support musicians the way I do.

But wait…

What if the artist is fake? What happens when I that you thought was real turned out to be a complete lie? What if all that you believed in was a hoax?

After reading a interview with Lupe Fiasco, I now realize that the music industry is far more out of control than I imagined.

Lupe discusses his new album, Lasers; set to be released on March 8^th. Lupe states that the album isn’t him. “I hate this album”. According to Lupe, Atlantic forced him to perform songs that he had nothing to do it. He was against the idea, but in order for Atlantic to release the cd, Lupe had to cooperate.

I am a huge fan of Lupe Fiasco, but it’s almost like he sold out. Although he did it for the fans, he still gave in. He signed his name on a project that he didn’t believe in. “Another day, another dollar”, Lupe says.

I respect Lupe knowing he went public with the issue. Record companies are taking too much control over projects. Sure, they invest a lot of money, but the money they originally invested went to Lupes ideas and raps, not someone elses.

This article boggles me. I hate knowing these companies have that much power.

Is all the music I’ve bought in the past a lie? I will truly never know.

Complete interview here:
http://www.complex.com/music/2011/02/interview-lupe-fiasco-hates-lasers?page=2

SXSW: Doing More

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 01:24:00 +0000

In the heart of the “Live sound capitol” South by Southwest brings in 9 days full of interactivity, films and of course music. This 9-day event stretches all across Downtown Austin. Year after year, SXSW brings in thousands of visitors to the Austin area. Visitors pour in from all areas of the U.S. ready to hit the streets for good times and great music. This year, SXSW celebrates its 25^th year anniversary. Once I thought the creators and sponsors of the festival couldn’t out do themselves, they prove me wrong.

While visiting their website, I noticed, they now give out non-profit scholarship. SXSW Interactive selected the five most innovative ideas and awarded. One of this year’s winners is Erika Righter for Concert for Kids. As a recipient, you receive a free SXSW Interactive badge (a $750 value) to give to their designated non-profit in order to attend the SXSW Interactive Festival. This allows the non-profit attendees to interact and meet innovators in media and technology. Applying for the scholarship, candidates and their supporters must write a 300-word essay explaining what the designated organization does and the challenges it faces. The essay should also focus on how the organization will use technology and media to further its goals beyond fundraising.

This is excellent news for my company as well as all other not for profit organizations out there. Feed Your Ears. Feed Your Ears is a non-profitable organization based out of Austin, Texas. Their mission: to inspire the world to raise awareness and fight hunger by integrating music and education, will be applying for the scholarship next year. The scholarship would allow Feed Your Ears to make more connections, both locally and nationally. We’d use the opportunities to learn new methods of technology, while integrating the new technology to help market and promote Feed Your Ears. Although, social media is a great to reach out to your target market, solely it’s not enough. Feed Your Ears will take the knowledge we learn and expand on it.

Look for Feed Your Ears at SXSW in 2012. Feed You Ears! Support the movement or start your own. Music is powerful. Let it speak to those who are less fortunate. Lets change the world, one ear at a time!

To read more, please visit http://sxsw.com/node/5634

Music is Medicine, Music is Sanity

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 01:22:00 +0000

Robert Gupta discusses the well-known story of Nathaniel Ayers. Nathaniel Ayers, a Julliard trained musician suffering from paranoia schizophrenia. His story became a book, which then came the move Soloist. While performing with Ayers, Gupta recognizes how music is medicine and while listening to the passionate message, so did I. It doesn’t matter what mood I am in, music always reflects it. The very cd in my car can tell you exactly how I am feeling. Music is uplifting. I now know I need music, but I also know that music needs me.

Finding my way into the music industry has been difficult. There has been many times where I just want to give up. At those times, I often think I am capable of settling for a regular 9-5 job. I’m willing to give up on what I’ve worked extremely hard to get in to. However, when I try, I always bounce back to music. No matter the struggle, I fight. I fight to one day make it in to the entertainment business.

After reviewing the video, I know that I cannot just walk away. I need music. I need music, not only in my day-to-day life, but I need music in my career. That’s the only way I will ever be content. I also know that music needs me.

In what many would call the “dying” age of music, music needs me to buy, sell and promote music. It needs me to bring life and change to the industry. It needs me to use it to make a difference in others.

Robert Gupta’s speech was extremely passionate and inspirational to both, the crowd and me. It inspired me to never give up. Although Nathaniel let paranoia schizophrenia limit his capabilities, he still relies on music to keep in sane. Like Nathaniel, music is my medicine. I often overdose from it. I can’t get enough!

Robert Gupta: Music is medicine, music is sanity | Video on TED.com

Free Dumb of Expression

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 03:21:00 +0000

America, the land of the free or some would say. Our founding fathers had a grand plan, a plan to create a wonderful place where all can be free. Free to believe in anything, free to speak their minds, free to voice their opinions. Although our National Anthem assures us that we live in “The land of the free”, Americans cannot honestly believe that. Censorship has ruined the way people are able to express themselves.

These expressions can be done in numerous ways such as, speaking, art and music. As the years pass, we are less able to express ourselves freely. We must take others into consideration. We have to be careful with what we say in fear that we will offend someone.

Kanye West, rapper, singer and producer released his 5^th solo album, My Dark Beautiful Twisted Fantasy on November 22, 2010. Like most things affiliated with Kanye, controversy struck when a picture of the album cover went public only a month before the preferred release date. The cover, painted by George Condo, a well-known artist in New York, consisted of Mr. West having sex with a phoenix and drinking. The painting became a hot topic and was quickly banned within the United States.

No matter if it’s music, drawings or paintings, these expressions reflect someone’s artistic side. Why deny them that privilege? You shouldn’t! There are several ways problems like Kanye’s can be solved. If this keeps up, everything that our founding fathers worked hard for will no longer exist. There’s no point of making a big deal or complaining to the government about every little situation that someone gets offended by. America will no longer be known as the “land of the free”, but as America the “land of watch what you say, you might offend me”.

Dre: Too Little Too Late

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 01:58:00 +0000

One of the most anticipated albums of all time is finally about to breach the surface. Fans have waited 6 years for Detox, Dre’s third and final solo album to be released. The original release date was set for 2004. Dre, Aftermath Entertainment and Interscope records released the first single off the album, Kush featuring Snoop Dog and Akon. Kush, like all songs affiliated with Dr. Dre has a hard-hitting low-end bass that will knock pictures off the wall. Although, the song is everything I would expect from Dre, the song is disappointing. The hook, preformed by Akon, is long enough to be it’s own verse. The style of Dre just isn’t popular right now. It was in style 10 years ago when Dre’s classic album, The Chronic 2001 was released. Hip-hop today consists of snappy clover one-liners. Kush simply isn’t that.

Kush wasn’t marketed very well. I know many huge Dre fans that had no idea the song was released. According to XXL the song was leaked, which led Dre to release it as the first single to the album.

Will Detox be legendary like the first 2 cds Dre put out? Fans are expecting greatness. Did the Dr. wait too long? I guess we will have to wait until February to find out. Take a listen.

LIVING ROUGH

noreply@blogger.com (Chris Hansen) — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 04:59:00 +0000

What causes a person to become homeless? There’s the expected drug abuse, alcohol abuse, mental disorders, but those cannot be the only factors, can they? Everyone has his or her own unique story. I have volunteered a few times in soup kitchens and other homeless shelters, yet never took the time to ask those whom I was serving why they where there. I decided to ask a man that I served a meal to on how he got to where he was today. Instead of hearing “I drank too much”, “I got into bad habits” or “I had a gambling problem”, I heard a heart-wrenching story of how this man lost everything during Hurricane Katrina. His home, his possessions, and even his family were all taken away from him during this horrible experience. I listened to him talk as tears rolled down his face. Everything he said was extremely vivid. He spoke about it as if it all just happened yesterday. Since the tragic incident, he wasn’t able to get back on his feet since then. It’s difficult to see the same people you were face to face with, handing their only meal for God knows how long, walking, begging, and sleeping on the streets. You recognize them as you past them. I encourage you to volunteer your time at a shelter or any community service to help those around you. There’s more than meets the eye in many of the situations that you will encounter.