If music be the food of love, play on

DTONE, NICE TONE

2011-12-02T08:49:00.001-08:00

Hello all, what's for dinner? (or breakfast/lunch) whichever part of the world you are reading from. Here it is, so I am laying on the table, today, as the world premieres this special music, I jump on the bandwagon also and present to you DTone Martins.

I really like his tone, and the passion with which he sings. As a singer/songwriter myself, I think I'll be right to say we kinda fall from the same tree of sound and musical influence, with the acoustic/afro/soul vibes going on. The popular combo of the Yoruba language with soul music is as always, very sweet and DTone does good justice. He pronounces his words well and clearly which is one of the things I look out for in good music. I can tell that he has been well developed over time and that he is a disciplined artist, musically.

It's funny I've not really heard about him until recently. One tends to think Asa is the one and only soulful music artist that is out of Nigeria, it's quite circumstantial that no matter the case, there is a natural tendency to make a reference to her due to her popularity. You would be right to say DTone has an Asa type sound ( although according to this informal interview he has been on the scene since 2001). With acts like DTone, Bez, Asa coming out, it gladdens the heart to know that soulful artists are getting the much needed recognition they deserve in Nigeria and abroad. DTone no doubt is truly talented, all I needed to confirm this is to watch the informal videos of him playing his guitar and singing on Youtube, it proves that outside of studio recording processing and all, he's got it.

The D in his stagename must be .....ooooh ok, its from his middle name: Dolapo :) . Full name Tony Dolapo Martins, DTone speaks on what makes him different from other musicians, he says “My talent, passion and intellect enthrone me as a worthy and prospective ambassador of Nigerian arts and culture. My work tenets are also hinged on values rooted in professionalism, excellence, integrity and hard work.” Hard work and excellence is definitely evident in the music that he is putting out.

Officially today, he releases two sweet singles ( they both have a 'love' theme)' Ife Gbagbara' and 'Sukun Ife' - my favorite parts in both is the arrangement, vocal delivery and the use of the Yoruba language. 'Ife Gbagbara' means 'love takes a lot of willpower' ( that's my lay interpretation) and the second one 'Sukun Ife' means 'cry of love', in this song, he is crying for a love that is really pulling at his heart, a love that has captivated him. I know you can just hear his heart through the music even if you don't understand what he is saying.

Enjoy..

'IFE GBAGBARA'

'SUKUN IFE'

More on DTones here => DTone Reverbnation Page

ZAHARA ON REPEAT

2011-11-29T17:07:00.000-08:00

OK, so I come across a lot of singers, African female singers and only a few got that thing I call 'The sssss factor' the sound you make when the song practically 'enters' you :). Here's one, 'Loliwe by Zahara' ...Zahara is a South African natural beauty..I discovered her like most of the good music I come across, from a wall post on FB, and since then, Google Google Google Youtube Youtube Youtube..........

I don't understand the language ('Loliwe' lyrics), but I can decipher the images and message from her lyrics and delivery.I just knew it had to be about service to mankind, helping your fellowman.. It's weird?. The video did better justice to the song, and I was right, its basically talking about spreading goodwill and love and it was simple and very well done, no bells and whistles, just appropriate. Her voice suits her, deep, soulful, afrocentric, delicious vocals...:)

Bulelwa "Spinach" Mkutukana (born on November 9, 1987) is a South African Singer-songwriter and poet. She started to sing in her school’s choir at the age of six and at age nine, she was told to join the senior choir because of her strong voice.

Zahara released her Debut Album Loliwe in 2011 which proved to be a big success as it went Platinum in 13 days and went double platinum after just 17 days selling over 100 000 copies in South Africa. ~ Source-Wikipedia

Need I say more?

Zahara is beautiful, so is her music. She doesn't need the 'star projection'. She exudes it. She is a natural, with or without the lights. Just my type!

If Music be the food of love, you know what to do!

~Tosinger~

Music of love, enjoy 'Loliwe'

Hey Lovely People

2011-11-29T16:28:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!
I'm back!!
I'll be posting songs here that I'm currently listening to or that I personally feel deserve a 2 thumbs up
Good music ONLY!
Yep, just very short to the point reviews, straight from the heart, 'check this out talk' and nothing more.
Miss you all. Glad I'm back.
If music be the food of love, you know what to do....:)
~Tosinger

GRAND FINALE: KENNY KORE

2010-08-22T20:38:00.000-07:00

Well Well Well....It's been an interesting journey. I hope I have been able to serve you a well balanced variety of music servings and you have been very well informed through my blog.
I will round it all up with something you have never heard before. Kenny Kore is a young Nigerian (West African) upcoming star. He is representing Africa musically on the map, and very well too. He may not have been nominated for or won any Grammys yet, like my previous mentions on this blog, but he is surely on his way there. His songs are inspirational & gospel in content, and his flavor and uniqueness is similar in the world genre standard of the likes of Angelique Kidjo, Youssou Ndour, Baaba Maal and Asa.

He used to be a member of the five man award winning group called 'Infinity'. He has set off successfully on a solo career with the release of his debut album in 2009 titled 'Eledumare'. I gladly introduce you to 'Eledumare' , the soul and spirit stirring 5* serving of the day. Some of the lyrics are in pidgin English to give you some interpretation.

Listen to Eledumare

'Eledumare' simply means 'Supreme God of the Universe' in Yoruba ( one of Nigeria's many ethnic dialects) , its a danceable rhythm laden with Afro instrumentation, the vocals are delivered with so much energy and depth, it is invigorating, original and enjoyable. I must add that the quality of music coming from this part of the world in recent times is undeniably commendable. Kenny Kore has a message to deliver through his music and his quality musicianship gives it the attention it deserves.

Thank you for your time and attention to my blog. It's the end but not the end of music.

All things shall perish from under the sky but music alone shall live, never shall die.Popular quote.

Whatever you do, please don't stop listening and don't stop grooving.

Remember, carefully chosen songs with uplifting lyrics and soothing melodies can turn a bad day into an exhilarating one.

Choose wisely.

On a final note:
Music IS the food of love...and by now you know what to do! Play on.
Cheers and God bless!
~Tosinger~

INDIA ARIE, MY SISTER.

2010-08-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

Hello all.....
I hope you took some time out to get some musical therapy during the week. As Tamera Manzanares states in her article here " Aging well, A musical spell" and I quote:

"Music’s ability to reach us on a deep, emotional level has long fascinated scientists and spurred special therapies that use music to help people experiencing or recovering from challenges including autism, Alzheimer’s disease, grief, chronic pain, stroke and depression"

I hope my blog's variety of musical servings and my persuasive thoughts on them have in some way added value into your life. On that note, it is with great pleasure that I present a darling music artiste, who I call my sister. Friends and family always point out the similarities between us, in our sound, style and charisma. It's a compliment for me. I love her music so much. Her name is India Arie.
Her bio on her site starts off like this "India Arie is known and cherished by fans and fellow musicians as a poet, a songwriter, a daughter, a producer, a musician, a sister, a singer, an advocate, a friend and a philanthropist –– but she is possibly best known for the love in her music that has inspired and motivated people worldwide" There is no better way to describe her.
35 year old neosoul singer India Arie started out here in Atlanta, singing in jazz cafes, in fact the story goes that she applied and started a program at SCAD-Savannah College of Art and Design where she picked up the guitar and found her creativity thereon.
She came to the limelight in 2001 with the release of 'Video' the single and later the album 'Acoustic Soul' which debuted at at number ten on the U.S. Billboard 2000.
Albums that followed include Voyage to India (2002), Testimony: Vol. 1, Life & Relationship (2006), Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics (2009)..All of which are in my collection. Not a surprise!
She has collaborated with a lot of major artistes and added to her credits, a long list of Grammy nominations and 3 wins: Best R&B Album 2003 for 'Good Man', best urban/alternative performance for 'Little Things' and same for 'Pearls' featuring Dobet Ghanore in 2010.
Back to our talk on therapy, I serve you India Arie's song titled same, sung in collaboration with the reggae singer from the Morgan family legend; Gramps Morgan.

Listen to 'Therapy'

Cause I need your therapy / You've given me everything / So much I ever could need ... I need your therapy / Oh oh oh oh oh oh (I-I-I-I need your therapy) ...

Soulful voice, earthy vibes and a magical guitar.So tell me why would a song on therapy from someone like India score less that a 5*! No way, especially that it's coming from my one and only soul sister!

If Music be the food of love, you know what to do!
~Tosinger~

ANGELIQUE KIDJO AFRICANA SPECIAL

2010-08-15T20:01:00.000-07:00

This is a song from my childhood "Wombo Lombo". It was a pleasant surprise to see it on 'Nick Jr' recently. Oh wow! how the world has become globalized? All thanks to new media.
Angelique Kidjo is one of a kind. She is an awesome performer-singer, songwriter, dancer and activist (a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2002). She is from the African country of Benin. She is now one of the most renowned 'World' music artistes who is on high demand internationally. Her energy is incomparable, her moves are impeccable. Her voice is piercing and beautiful.
After schooling in Paris and marrying her French producer husband, Jean Hebrail, she started out doing back up vocals locally and leading vocals in an Euro-African jazz group "Pili Pili". Angelique hit a musical jackpot when she was discoverd by Island Records in 1991 and then later by Columbia Records. Six albums later, she produced hits including "Agolo" (another of my favorites), "We We", "Adouma", "Wombo Lombo", "Afirika", "Batonga", and her version of "Malaika".
I don't know the meaning of some of these songs, but they always convey a message in their own special way. Music knows no barriers irrespective of language, color or creed. She sings in French, Yoruba (my native language by the way), Fon and English and of course her local Benin language-Zilin. She has some characteristic signature clicking in her sound that gives her songs unique edge.

Listen to "Wombo Lombo"

The 5* song on the plate "Wombo Lombo" brings back good memories. It was fun dancing in front a TV as a little girl admiring this energetic bundle of talent. Her videos were always captivating and colorful. The general idea of the song lyrics indicate the spirit of dance. The English part of it goes:

"Have you ever seen this man moving ?
Do you think anyone else can do it ?
Really this dance has got something,
Something, no way you can`t beat it."

She has collaborated with artistes like Ziggy Marley, Josh Groban, Alicia Keys, Joss Stone and numerous others. The one with Joss Stone, "Gimme Shelter" is another favorite of mine from her 2007 album "Djin Djin"

On June 10, 2010, she was part of the Official Kick-Off Celebration Concert of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa along with John Legend, Hugh Masekela, Shakira, Alicia Keys, Juanes and Black Eyes Peas.
She is currently touring and I can't wait to get my ticket for the November 13, 2010 concert in Atlanta, Georgia at The Rialto. She is leading the way for other upcoming international 'world' artistes, one of which will also share the same stage at The Rialto on December 10, 2010, Kenny Kore from Nigeria. Watch out for more information on this at The Rialto Theater site. Music is universal, no doubt about it. Angelique Kidjo serves one of the best ethnic musical soul food ever that anyone can eat!

If Music be the food of Love, you know what to do!
~Tosinger~

HANNAH CYRUS, MILEY MONTANA & HANNAH STEWART.Oh Blimey!

2010-08-15T15:39:00.000-07:00

Teen idol, 18 year old Miley Ray Cyrus started out as Hannah Montana on the Disney Channel show of the same name where she plays a double life as an ordinary girl Miley Stewart who is a popular pop singer (Hannah Montana) who is also branded in real life with the same alias per music, acting and a franchise line. Now I hope I have confused you all :)

There you go, Miley Cyrus is Miley Stewart is Hannah Montana and she is having a blast all the way to the bank.

It helps that she is the daughter of the country music star, Billy Ray Cyrus who is best known for his single 'Achy breaky heart'.

Breaking out of the sweet American girl persona portrayed on the Disney show, Miley released her first single in 2008, "Breakout" and got a role in an animated movie called "Bolt". She was later nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song for her performance of Bolt's theme song, I thought I lost you with John Travolta.

In 2009, Miley's grown image became established with the release of The Time of Our Lives and the best-selling single, Party in the U.S.A. She also acted as herself in Hannah Montana: The Movie . "Can't be tamed" is a 2010 release causing ripples in the young pop music industry and this is what I serve today. It got to Number 8 on the Billboards 100!!! Now, isn't that something?

Listen to "Can't Be Tamed"

I couldn't believe this is the same Miley from Disney Channel, how the young grow fast. Sweet 16 definitely becomes provocative in this one.I really don't have any special thoughts on this song. Miley has her audience surely. The song doesn't move me in any way, manner or form. It is just interesting to see the evolution of this talent over the years. 3*** All the best Miley!

If Music be the food of love, you know what to do.
~Tosinger~

LADY GAGA IN THE NEWS

2010-08-08T16:34:00.000-07:00

I don't understand Lady Gaga or do I? I find her fascinating. She is a very eccentric human being. Real name : Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, Lady Gaga is the first celebrity to have more than 10 million fans on Facebook more than US President Barack Obama as reported by Famecount.

Her general outlook, personal style and dressing is considered outrageous. They say she derives her star quality from Rock stars like 'Queen' and 'David Bowie' and her vocals have been compared to 'Gwen Stefani' and Madonna', I would agree she -kind of- reminds me of both ladies.

Akon, the hip-hop star recognized her vocal abilities, and signed her to his own label, Kon Live Distribution. I never heard of her until I heard the song-'Poker Face' from her debut album 'The Fame' which was released in 2008 and topped the BillBoard 200 charts. It reminded me of the hook in this Bonny M song, there are definitely some disco influences drawn from here. I guess there have always been 'crazy dressing rock stars' way before her, because even 'Bonny M's costumes look like there was a lot of crazy, out this world thoughts that went into their designs. Not to digress, here's Lady Gaga's song served:

Enjoy 'Poker Face'

It's a danceable, upbeat workout song, that's what I will call it. It's ok, it gets my 3***. Lady Gaga is always in the news for one thing on the other like crowd surfing semi-naked, cocaine use and showstopping costumes. Things that make mouths drop and question her sanity.Well, it seems to be working for her, maybe when she does admit sanity, all creativity will seize to flow from her musically.

Loose some calories with this one this week.

If music be the food of love, you know what to do!

~Tosinger~

IS MAROON THE COLOR OF LOVE?

2010-08-08T04:37:00.000-07:00

♫♫♫=lll|̲̅̅●̲̅̅|̲̅̅=̲̅̅|̲̅̅●̲̅̅|lll..i=♫♫♫

Hello Friends,

Scorching weekend, with some showers of rain here and there, blessings of nature ! So I stumble across one of my favorites from Maroon 5 'This Love'. Maroon 5- a five man band (one replaced later) are friends from high school from Los Angeles, California. Formerly a 4-member group called 'Kara's Flowers', a garage/grunge band ( a form of amateurish rock music) formed in 1994. They gained so much publicity from touring a lot. I must say that paid off for them in the long run because they received the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 2005.

The lead vocalist of the group, Adam Levine, has a unique voice. A voice I will refer to as a 'fruity flavored gum' :). The other members of the group are Drummer-Matt Flynn, Base Guitarist- Micky Madden, Keyboardist-Jesse Carmichael and Guitarist-James Valentine.
Despite previous failures, 'This Love' was a hit single from their debut album 'Songs About Jane' in 2002. A 2002 song that is still as fresh like it was released yesterday. That's an element of a good song.

Listen to a clip of 'This Love' Full song & video => video

Since debuting in 2002, the band has sold over 10 million albums in the United States and nearly 15 million worldwide. Source-Wikipedia.
The explicit scenes of the video aside, the song in itself is a 5*****. Controversial? Yes!, their videos I agree tend to get too 'raunchy'.
They are going on strong with a 2010 album release- 'Hands all over'-and a new single called 'Misery' which is now available on iTunes.

If Music be the food of love, you know what to do!
~Tosinger~

A SONG FOR A SOULMATE

2010-08-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

Got to love Natasha Bedingfield. Blond, beautiful and blessed with a unique soul piercing voice. She is British Pop Singer/Songwriter who emerged in 2004 with her album 'Unwritten'. It received a 2007 Grammy nomination for the best female pop vocal performance ( the single-'Unwritten'). Previously she sang in a band with her siblings and later on, in a well known Christian music church group called HillSongs.

In 2007, she released a second album 'NB' which has one of my favorites (and happens to be one of the two hit songs on the album). This is what I serve you today, a song titled 'Soulmate'. 'Soulmate' at the time of its release reached number seven on the UK Singles Chart and in the top 20 in most countries.
Critics say that the 'NB' album was "inorganic and awkwardly assembled", I disagree. I say it is a well produced piece and reflects the natural abilities of Ms Bedingfield, her voice I will classify as a neo-soul organic pop sound garnished with a noticeable flavor of RnB.

She later collaborated with Sean Kingston in 2008 on -'Love Like This'-which also became a hit.

Read more about => Natasha Bedingfield.

The lyrics of this song express a reflection, on finding a true love connection, the need for companionship and begs to answer the question: is there really a soulmate for everyone?

Listen and watch: 'Soulmate'

My verdict? This is a 5 star soul searching song all the way.
If music be the food of love..you know what to do!
~Tosinger~

BEYONCE KNOWLES

2010-08-01T04:08:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Presenting Beyonce! She is listed as the most successful female artiste of the 2000's by the Billboards. She started out with her R & B girl group of 3 called 'Destiny's Child', managed by her record label manager father, Matthew Knowles. The teenage girls were Houston, Texas natives who became stars with their best selling album 'The writings on the wall'. Due to management conflict and legal tussles, they finally split in 2004 after an attempted reunion.Beyonce, who was the lead singer, embarked on a very successful solo career of her lifetime afterwards.

Beyonce started off with her debut solo album in 2003 'Dangerously in Love' which earned her 5 time Grammy awards. This was later followed with 'B-Day' in 2006 and 'Am Sasha Fierce' in 2008 which has the song I'll be highlighting today 'Single ladies-Put a ring on it'. Why would this album and this single in particular get 6 Grammys and earn the title of the most awards won by a female artiste in a Grammy night?

The song is a product of her alter ego, Sasha, a persona that Beyonce decided to project which expresses female empowerment and assertion.
It is rumored that it is inspired by her secret marriage to music rap star Jay-Z, a marriage which later became public in April, 2008.
"Single Ladies" is ranked as the number two Best Song of the Decade in Rolling Stone magazine's Reader's Poll.
The lyrics basically talk about single ladies getting a deserving treatment from men. 'Put a ring on it' meaning men should propose marriage rather than wasting a lady's time leading her on.

The dance to the song in the music video I find so hilarious, it became a YouTube craze nevertheless. Obviously a lot of ladies related to this song and it contributed to it being a hit.
Not to say that her other songs are not 5 *, I particularly like 'Irreplaceable' and 'Halo' but here is my review of 'Single Ladies' : It's a feel good, 3***, snacky snack song, it's like therapeutic chocolate candy indulgence.

Here goes:

Single ladies (Put a ring on it)

Beyonce, this 3 and a half vocal range superstar, is seen as an epitome of perfect beauty in the minds of all. She puts on a performance persona, she is like a firecracker onstage and offstage is soft spoken and as gentle as a dove. Beyonce also thrives in her acting career (she appeared in movies like 'Obsessed' and 'DreamGirls') and owns a fashion line 'House of Dereon' in conjunction with her mother, Tina Knowles who is a fashion designer. Smart business moves.

She continues to be a musical phenomenon and her fans await her new work over the years.

If the music be the food of love, you know what to do!
~Tosinger~

ASA, SOME ETHNIC FLAVOR

2010-07-24T18:47:00.000-07:00

Hallo hallo!

I am quiet partial with today's menu/song choice. Partial because of its origin and its flavor. I serve you 5 star hot and fresh Asa straight from my birth land, Nigeria. Asa, Lagos born as Bukola Elemide, is a new generation world artiste making waves via Paris, France. Asa means 'hawk' in my mother tongue, the Yoruba language of the people of Nigeria in Western Africa. I heared it from the grapevine that she got that name when she was a tomboy growing up because she always ran swiftly (like a hawk in flight) when she was sent on errands. :-)

Hardworking and committed to her music, she learnt the guitar in six months. She came to the limelight after being signed by a French record label company. Her songs 'Jailer' and 'Eye Adaaba' caught the airwaves like wildfire both in Nigeria and abroad. 'Fire on the mountain' is also an all time favorite.

This is one of those albums where I do not have a favorite song. So I serve most of it here to you as a mini-buffet, her other songs are 'Place to be', 'Iba', and 'So Beautiful'. There are many more but I'll just leave it as that. Her songs are so natural and soulfully delivered, spiced with an acoustic base. The lyrics, mood and sound have an afrocentric backdrop, the ethnic flavor is derived from the use of her native language and intonations. Even if you don't understand it, you can still enjoy it. The European market have embraced her, as they usually do for the world genre of music. Hopefully, your coming across this blog of mine has introduced you to some good music you will not have known or heard of, otherwise .

'Place to be' by Asa

Chorus:
I believe that I can be
Only the best in whatever I do
Guaranteed to take the lead
Only the best in whatever I do
Guaranteed, yes indeed
To be the best in whatever I do

If music be the food of love, you know what to do!

~Tosinger~

I'M FEELING GOOD

2010-07-23T18:56:00.001-07:00

Hi Y'all (with a southern drawl),

Anytime for some music this week? It's been raining. I love the sight and sound of rain, the 'splitter splatter' against my window, the fresh feel of the air after it's been cleansed. All these, makes me feel good. Good enough to spur me to listen to some feel good songs. Hmm, what's for 'musical supper'? How about a song titled 'Feeling Good'?. So I go on 'youtube' and search the phrase 'feeling good' and topping the list pops one of my favorite legendary singers, Ms Nina.

-Nina Simone-

Lovely! not too far down......... -Michael Buble- the Grammy Award winning cute Canadian singer whose voice I totally adore is right next to her.

Hmm, this menu is really tantalizing! It's incomparable. Which should I serve first?
It's like comparing good ol' apple pie to New York cheesecake for dessert.

It's interesting to see the trans-generational versions and remixes of songs , some are good and some are bad. This is good. Many people may not know the original source and music stars down the line do covers and make it more popular. 'Feeling Good' is not an exception. It has been covered by a lot of artistes from Sammy Davis Jr to the Pussycat Dolls.

It's a 1964 musical oldie written by Anthony Newley , Nina Simone (born Eunice Kathleen Waymon, February 21, 1933–April 21, 2003) Singer/Songwriter, Pianist and activist sang her soulful version a year later in her album 'I put a spell on you', hear Nina Simone's version of 'Feeling Good' . Micheal Buble later puts a jazzy twist to it. This is a live performance. You can also check out the official video here. It was released as a single off his album 'It's Time' in 2005 and became the official song of the 2010 NBA draft.
Both versions sound natural and true, unadulterated and smooth. They each have their uniqueness and they both have the same effect on the listener, makes them feel good. Five ***** soul refreshing stars!

"It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life for me and I'm feeling good."

If Music be the food of love, you know what to do!

~Tosinger~

KE$HA SINGS WHAT?

2010-07-17T23:07:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

I don't mean to start your week with 'junky junk' but I am sure you are wondering by now, servings so far have all been 5 star healthy and one 'snacky snack' in the mix. You may have that questioning look, so what on earth do I consider junk?. Ok here goes. It's junk if it's not worth all the hype, if it does not add value to the soul, if the lyrics are meaningless even if the rhythm is groovy, if the music is upbeat and well done but the image of the singer is 'bleh'.

Take it or leave it. Ke$ha fits that category. Note the 'Kesha' with the S=$ dollar sign, an ironic implication of her humble income beginnings Wiki sources state. Kesha is a pop singer/songwriter and rapper who uses a lot of auto-tuning and vocoding in her sound, too much to determine the extent of her natural talent I must say.

After featuring in Flo Rida's single 'Right Round' which created a buzz for her , 'Tik Tok' (from the debut studio album 'Animal'), her single released in 2009 shot her to stardom.

You wanna watch?

Danceable and upbeat, I'll give that to her. But what is the message in a song that talks about going to party one night and coming home half-drunk? Well, for some reason, it still topped the charts, against mixed reviews from the music audience.

Kesha says of the song in an interview with Esquire(2009-09-09)

"I just really wanted to embody the lifestyle that I live, we're all young and broke and it doesn't matter. We can find clothes on the side of the street and go out and look fantastic, and kill it. If we don't have a car that doesn't stop us, because we'll take the bus. If we can't afford drinks, we'll bring a bottle in our purse. It's just about not letting anything bring you down"

I ask again, and the value adding message here is? I hope not to sound like a rigid parent but Kesha, like so many other artistes, a list too long to mention, portray a controversial rebellious image which seems to be working for her musical success, but how much does this influence the society's youth? This is a valid question.

Don't throw stones yet, it may just happen to be someone's favorite song. But remember, this is a blog of musical opinion. Some girls like bad boys, some people like bad food and my description of bad music just fits right in there for them. Just like food and what it does to your body, so is music and what it does to your soul. There goes the 1* 'Junky junk'.

If music be the food of love, you know what to do!

~Tosinger~

CORINNE OH CORINNE

2010-07-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

Corinne Bailey Rae..Talk of someone who exudes soul, deep emotion, inspiration, despair and a soothing comfort in her music, talk of Corinne. The first British female singer/songwriter to hit the top 20 billboards. Her self titled album was released in 2006. A number one with the hit singles 'Put Your Records On' and 'Like A Star'. In 2007, she had three Grammy nominations to her credit, 'Song of the year', 'Best new artist' and 'Record of the year'. The 2008 tragedy of the loss of her husband (Jazz musician Jason Rae) and issues in her personal life undoubtedly made her music even stronger.

Corinne collaborated with other artistes like John Legend and John Mayer, similar neo-soul branded styles of music. You can read more about Corinne at her very extensive website.

If you are looking for a relaxing atmosphere after a hard day's work or a stressful situation, Corinne's 'Put Your Records On' is my suggestion for you. Corinne's sound is jazzy and sultry, the type that caresses your soul and spirit. The lyrics are carefully chosen, basically telling you everything is going to be ok:

"Maybe sometimes, we've got it wrong, but it's alright
The more things seem to change, the more they stay the same
Oh, don't you hesitate.

Girl, put your records on, tell me your favourite song
You go ahead, let your hair down
Sapphire and faded jeans, I hope you get your dreams,
Just go ahead, let your hair down.

You're gonna find yourself somewhere, somehow."

Very encouraging.

Listen

Corinne found the courage and strength in mourning to release 'The Sea', her latest album, January, 2010. If you are looking for something uplifting and inspiring, Corinne is the healthy way to go. 5 stars all the way.

If music be the food of Love, you know what to do!

~Tosinger~

A COOL SONG FOR THIS HOT WEATHER

2010-07-10T13:40:00.001-07:00

Hello Friends,

It’s been really hot here in Atlanta this week. I need me some cold refreshing drink with a serving of a cool song from one of my favorite artistes. That will do the trick- :-)

You probably heard this song in a commercial on TV. Yes, it’s that good. A song doesn’t make it to the adverts if it’s not.

I serve you healthy and refreshing musical goodness from 33 year old Jason Mraz. Singer/Songwriter from Virginia who released his debut album in 2002. He hit the airwaves big-time and commercially in 2008. His single “I’m yours” topped the charts on the Billboards. It remains one of his best. It was nominated for ‘Song of the Year’ 2009 at the 51^st Grammy awards.

Jason’s musical influences are widely drawn from reggae, pop, jazz, folk, rock and more. He blends with all, culturally and appeals to all, globally. I personally love the simple chords and the addictive ‘sing-alongness’ of the hook of “I’m Yours”. It is mature yet youthful, danceable yet easy listening, reggae-ish yet pop-ish feel. It’s just plain, plain cool.

The lyrics are believable, encouraging and soul soothing. The music is lined with acoustic ingenuity; he has a unique way of playing with his syllables when he sings. His voice is unique, the type you will recognize with earplugs plugged in. What makes a good song? The music, the lyrics and I will say the personality of the singer too. Jason comes across as sweet and down to earth, and that comes through in his songs.

This song is a 5-Star, healthy and fresh all the way. I call it an everlasting summer song, you call it 'COOL'!!?. You are entitled to my opinion, anyday :-) .

Take a listen here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkHTsc9PU2A

So what do you think? You have a great week ahead and...

If Music be the food of Love, you know what to do!

~Tosinger~

WHO IS JUSTIN BEIBER?

2010-07-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

Hola everyone!
I hope your week is going good?
Did you get some spare time to listen to some good music?
Yes? No? Maybe so?
Hmm. I wonder.
So what's on the menu today?
I am in between on this one, I am going to have to coin a new rating, let's call it 'snacky snack' and it will be
*** 3 stars!
I teach music to a mixed class of kindergartners to 5th graders at a summer camp.
So, this day, I power up my laptop so we could go on YouTube to listen to the different styles of music we just talked about.
And all the girls are screaming 'Justin Bieber, Justin Beiber', Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease! Ms T.
They look in horror at me when I ask "Who is Justin Beiber?"
I see why. Justin Beiber, a 16 year old Canadian R&B/Pop singer who sings a lot about girls and love, (strategic audience right there) is hot cake among tweens and teens!
If you trust Wiki, read more here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justin_Bieber

Talk about the power of New Media, YouTube played a big role in shooting him to the stars. He is signed under Raymond Braun Media Group (RBMG), a label partly owned by Usher. He has collaborated with other popular R&B, Pop and Hip Hop artistes. With his voice going through puberty transformation, he is still on a high demand for features, shows and concerts.
His 2009 single 'One time' topped the charts in many countries. It seems to remain a favorite even now. The lyrics are basically talking about the usual boy meets girl, butterflies flying and all that 'gooey' stuff. The catchy hook says: "Me plus you, I'ma tell you one time...Girl, I love you..."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHVhwcOg6y8

This menu? It's just OK. The lyrics are right for the audience it targets, the music, well produced I must say. I will probably attempt to be a little sentimental and give it a 3 star 'snacky snack' stamp. Is that because my teenage days are way way gone? Maybe so :0).

If Music be the food of Love, you know what to do!
~Tosinger~

A WORLD CUP AND A WAVIN' FLAG

2010-07-03T04:51:00.000-07:00

Okay. So, I will be using these ratings. It's either 5 stars or one. I will not bother with the 'in-betweens'

Five bright stars

***** Hot and fresh

One miserable star

*Junky junk

Now that I've got my rating yardstick out of the way, let's go to the musical dish of the day. In the spirit of the ongoing world cup, I choose to serve you the theme song of the FIFA World Cup 2010 hosted by South Africa called 'A waving Flag' by K'naan.

Shakira's song "Waka Waka" was composed for the 2010 World Cup as well, but come on, there is nothing original about this song. This is a song I remember vividly from my childhood. I remember chanting it as a Girls' Scout. High energy musicianship and Shakira's simulated African (looks more Indian to me) dance did not add a wow factor. Personally, I don't think it was performed with much 'heart'. It lacked the peculiar natural African essence.

Welcome, Canadian-based hip-hop artist K'Naan who carefully crafted a theme song that reflects the celebration of soccer with a universal appeal. The lyrics are well thought out and very relevant to all cultures. It is inspiring, positive and meaningful. When you listen to this song, you will be taken to a different place. You will be enraptured by the excitement and anticipation of the convergence of nations proudly waving their flags. Click on the link below and take a listen.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVyb5c_jcDw

It is no surprise that the remix of the "Wavin' Flag" became part of Coca-Cola's global integrated marketing campaign "inspired by the joyous dance celebrations familiar to Africa."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTJSt4wP2ME&feature=related

I will give this song a 'hot and fresh' 5 star rating. It certainly deserves it.

If Music be the food of love, you know what to do!

~Tosinger~

I SERVE YOU MUSIC

2010-06-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends and Music lovers,

I am excited to embark on this journey of serving you different recipes of music. Oh how I love music, I 'eat' music, I breathe music, I live music. Thanks to my New Media class, this imagination of mine turns into reality, to contribute my own musical opinion, which I am entitled to, to the ever growing blog-world.

You may be wondering why I use food related terminologies and references to this phenomenon that is a passion of mine. William Shakespeare said it all " If Music be the food of love, play on.." and that is exactly what I intend to do. I will be your waitress, suggesting specials for the day, what's healthy and what's junk, and why you just can't live without feeding your soul with good music.

I do understand, everybody's taste is different, so I will be very aware of this and try as much as possible to balance the deal here.

Music has always been an integral constituent of human life, a universal language at that, that binds us all together. Many, including yours truly, believe that music is a language in itself, capable of influencing emotions and creating expressions, while others think it’s just something that sounds good. With all our varying theories, there remains no earthly explanation for humans’ obsession with music; the bewitchment we all enjoy is simply divine.

There is music of nature (which I will refer to as 'organic music' -definition - Organic music; Music that deals with natural, percussion, acoustic based instruments) or even music that nature itself sings.."Observe the trees, undulating in perfect synchrony...At the conducting of the wind, to natural acoustics"....

I will touch on the different genres of music, Rock, Soul, Country, Pop, RnB and the list goes on.We will take each morsel of synchrony and eat it slowly..

Till then..be still; relax and feel the rhythm.

If Music be the food of love, you know what to do!

~Tosinger~