Once Upon a Dreamer

Music: The International Language

2012-02-17T20:31:00.000-08:00

"Music can change the world because it can change people." - Bono

American Idol Season 11: From Hollywood to Vegas

2012-02-16T23:11:00.090-08:00

This week on American Idol, the remaining hopefuls were put through the test of putting on not one, but two, group performances. Traditionally, the group rounds prove to be a challenge for many contestants, as it is not an easy task to successfully blend multiple different voices together while highlighting your own vocal strengths in a matter of two minutes. While several performers fell (some quite literally), many saw their stock in the competition rise. These were two of my favourite group performances from Hollywood and Vegas (on the Viva Elvis stage).

Groovesauce (consisting of Reed Grimm, Creighton Fraker, Aaron Marcellus, Nick Boddington, and Jen Hirsh) singing Sam and Dave's "Hold On, I'm Coming". With their high energy, strong vocal solos, and great background harmonization, it was like this group wandered off of The Sing-Off set and onto the Idol stage! Groovesauce (minus Reed) teamed up again in Vegas as 'The Lady and the Spectacles' for "Sealed With a Kiss".

There were so many solid and diverse performances during Vegas Week. The most memorable one for me was this funkified rendition of Buddy Holly's "It Doesn't Matter Anymore" by Jessica Sanchez, Deandre Brackensick, and Candice Glover. These three young powerhouses were finally able to show off their vocal prowess with big notes, high notes, and several incredible runs. I appreciated their fearlessness and fine usage of hairography.

What is Happenstance?

2012-02-15T17:55:00.022-08:00

Someone on Tumblr asked me what the meaning of happenstance is, and I thought my response would be appropriate to share here...

Happenstance is a theory that challenges the belief that our lives follow a strictly linear path. The reality is that the diversions (i.e., unplanned events, chance encounters, etc) that we face along the way will steer us through the choices we make along this journey called life. Inevitably, occurrences that we do not foresee having an impact on us, such as taking an elective course in university that causes you to switch your major or traveling to a new country and falling in love with the culture, will cause us to shift our perspectives and uncover new interests. Ultimately, the key to discovering your passion in life is to follow your curiosities by getting involved, trying new things, and embracing the unexpected. It’s these traits of being flexible, having a keen interest, and maintaining a positive attitude that will help you reach fulfillment in life!

All You Need Is Love

2012-02-14T09:00:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentines Day, darlings! On this special occasion, I present you all with this pretty and delightful Doily Hearts design by Bri Emery and Jen Gotch (via Kate Spade's e-valentine campaign).

Remember: Valentines Day is not only reserved for those who are in or are pursuing romantic relationships. February the 14th is for all those who choose to share their heart and show compassion towards others. It is a day to remind the people we care about that we cherish their company, respect them as individuals, and wish them the greatest happiness in life. Love is a universal sensation which we can all embrace and engage in.

All You Need is Love, Love is All You Need.

Music Monday: Sweet Hearts

2012-02-13T14:55:00.049-08:00

Priscilla Ahn (whose song "Dream" is one of the purest, loveliest, and most mesmerizing songs I have ever been lucky enough to hear) has joined up with fellow singer-songwriter, Charlie Wadhams for a side project called Sweet Heart. Just in time for Valentines Day, Sweet Heart has released an EP with cleverly titled tracks such as "Dear Sweetheart" (which you can listen to above) and "I'm An Actor, Baby". This EP would be the perfect gift for those who enjoy acoustic, folk, and songs of love.

Download the Sweet Hearts EP for free at ohsweethearts.com

2012 Grammy Awards: The Moments

2012-02-12T23:50:00.226-08:00

Adele performing the Record and Song of the Year, "Rolling in the Deep" at the 2012 Grammy Awards.

As host LL Cool J said at the opening of the 54th Annual Grammy Awards, the night was about something truly universal and healing - music. Devastated by the passing of Whitney Houston (to whom this year's ceremony is dedicated to), the music community paid their respects to the late, great vocalist by letting the beat go on. The music-makers celebrated this past year by recognizing the achievements of their fellow artists and by creating some of the finest and most memorable Grammy moments in the show's history. These were some of my favourite moments...

Alicia Keys and Bonnie Raitt's cool cover of "Sunday Kind Of Love" by Etta James, in honour of the late Matriarch of R&B and Soul.
The Regal Reba McEntire introducing Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson's "Don't You Wanna Stay", one of my favourite Country duets of 2012.
The Beach Boys set by Maroon 5 and Foster the Kids, with a special appearance by the band itself! "Good Vibrations" was especially groovy and showed that the Beach Boys, who are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, are timeless entertainers.
Stevie Wonder. Need I say more?
Folk duo The Civil Wars singing a snippet of the entrancing "Barton Hollow," their Grammy award winning song from their Grammy Award winning album.
Tony Bennett, who received his first Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album accolade of his career for Duets II (which contains his sensational, award-winning collaboration with the late Amy Winehouse, "Body and Soul"), sang his duet with Carrie Underwood, "It Had To Be You".
Jennifer Hudson's emotionally-charged rendition of "I Will Always Love You" was a stunning tribute to Whitney Houston (and surely brought tears to the eyes of all those who adored her).
QUEEN ADELE. The vocal powerhouse deliver a rousing rendition of "Rolling in the Deep" (the fact that she can go through vocal surgery and sound that stellar is amazing!) which was followed by a standing ovation from the audience. She also dominated the night with a clean sweep of Grammy Awards, earning a grand total of six trophies in the categories of Best Short Form Music Video (for "Rolling in the Deep"), Best Pop Vocal Album (for 21), Best Pop Solo Performance (for "Someone Like You"), Song of the Year and Record of the Year (for "Rolling in the Deep"), and the prestigious Album of the Year for 21! With her six awards, she matched Beyonce's record of most wins by a female artist in one night. Truly, there is no one more worthy of all the acclaim than the talented and sensational Adele.
Sir Paul McCartney (along with Bruce Springsteen and Dave Grohl in the band) closing the show with Golden Slumbers / Carry That Weight / The End. That Beatles medley is perhaps one of the most beautiful pieces of music ever created, and it was such a pure joy to hear it performed on the Grammy stage. This powerful moment was a reminder of how good songs can be cherished for many years to come.

"In the end, the love you make is equal to the love you take."

The Greatest Whitney Of All

2012-02-11T19:10:00.007-08:00

Whitney Houston (1963-2012)
Image from delingcity

"We all die. The goal isn't to live forever, the goal is to create something that will." - Whitney Houston
My goodness. It seems like just yesterday when I was writing about Etta James's passing. I can't believe that we're saying goodbye to yet another music legend - the remarkable Whitney Houston.

Whitney Houston is regarded by many as one of the greatest singers of our time. Since the 1980s, she has released multiple hits, from her first #1 record in 1985, "Saving All My Love for You" to her latest single, "I Look to You". Even more, Whitney is esteemed as an artist who has touched millions of lives. Her songs resonate with people and inspire them to fall in love with music, to become music makers, and to follow their dreams, no matter what. In the wake of her death, I've heard many stories from her fans about how Whitney has had an tremendous influence on them. "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" brings back fond high school memories. "I Will Always Love You" moves many to tears and encourages many aspiring singers to pursue careers in music. "When You Believe", her duet with Mariah Carey, was an unforgettable moment for fans of the two superstars.

Along with "I Have Nothing", which I consider to be one of the most powerful and passionate vocal performances of all time, I'd like to remember Whitney by "The Greatest Love Of All". This song contains an important lesson I wish everyone could hear: "Love yourself for who you are". There was something very human about Whitney. Like any person, she faced her share of challenges in life, but she worked hard to overcome the obstacles in her path. Whitney is an example of resilience and strength, and a symbol of empowerment to women who want to achieve greatness in their lives.

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we bid farewell to the iconic Whitney Houston.
May you find the peace you deserve.

We will always love you, Whitney.

Love Is...

2012-02-10T15:00:00.022-08:00

Please view and share my video submission for PixelMags' Valentine's Day Giveaway! The video is about love in all of its different forms, with the universal message being that 'all you need is love'.

The music you hear in the video is "Valentine" by Kina Grannis.

Carrie Underwood and Steven Tyler on CMT Crossroads

2012-02-09T23:11:00.041-08:00

She's a little bit country, he's a little bit rock and roll. Together, they make crazy good music!

Carrie Underwood and Steven Tyler are the latest musicians to team up for CMT Crossroads, a program that pairs country artists with stars from a different genre. Some of my favourite duos that resulted from Crossroads include Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson; and John Mayer with Keith Urban and Brad Paisley. I thought pairing Carrie up with Steven again (they performed "Undo It / Walk This Way" during last year's ACM Awards) was a really cool idea because they seem to have so much fun on stage together. Their setlist consisted of "Sweet Emotion / Love in an Elevator", "Before He Cheats", "Cryin'", "Born to Be Wild", and my favourite, an emotionally-charged mash-up of Carrie's "Just a Dream" and Aerosmith's "Dream On". I really hope that a duet between Carrie and Steven is in the works because I can't get enough of this dynamic duo!

Rising Stars: Jen Hirsh

2012-02-08T23:11:00.045-08:00

I finally found a favourite on American Idol! Meet Jen Hirsh from Agoura, California. Idol fans may remember her as the girl who auditioned with a jazzy rendition of "Ding Dong! The Witch is Dead" (complete with scatting!) during Season 9. Jen is back to compete in Season 11, and she has proven herself to be a serious contender! Her Hollywood Week performance of Patty Griffin's Up To The Mountain blew me away. She has such a clear, soulful voice and a wonderful sense of melody - signs of someone with true artistry in their bones! I'll definitely be keeping an eye out on Jen.

See Jen perform "The Better Half", a song from her pre-Idol album, Myself in Two, in the video above.

Fun fact: Jen is a member of the Beantown Swing Orchestra. See her serenade Idol Season 3 alum, John Stevens, in this music video for "The Trolley Song"!

Rising Stars: Juliet Simms and Tony Lucca

2012-02-07T23:11:00.076-08:00

I feel like a traitor for what I'm about to say (since I'm one of American Idol's greatest supporters), but I have to admit it: I am in love with The Voice.

This sure wasn't the case last year, when I struggled to keep up with its inaugural season due to lack of interest in any of the contestants. However, this year, on the first night of Season 2, I found myself intrigued by two voices - Juliet Simms and Tony Lucca.

Any lady who can belt out "Oh! Darling" by the Beatles is a winner in my books. That list includes Sara Bareilles, Florence + the Machine, Katelyn Epperly and Haley Reinhart from Idol, and now, Juliet Simms from The Voice. As soon as she started singing "Oh darling, please believe me..." with that gravelly rasp of hers, I was sold. For years, I have been waiting for a rocker girl to win one of these singing competitions, and I think Juliet has some serious potential.

Former Disney Mouseketeer Tony Lucca (yes, he does know Christina Aguilera - they were in the Mickey Mouse Club together!) auditioned with Ray LaMontagne's "Trouble" and successfully got all four judges to turn their chairs around. His cool acoustic-soul-folk vibe is very enthralling, and I know for a fact that I would listen to his music because I am already familiar with some of his original songs!

Rising Stars: Katharine McPhee and Megan Hilty

2012-02-06T16:36:00.001-08:00

I am introducing a new segment on Once Upon a Dreamer called 'Rising Stars', where I will highlight the emerging talents who just so happen to capture my attention and interest.

Two of my favourite things in life are musicals and Marilyn Monroe. What could be a more winning combination than a musical about Marilyn Monroe? On NBC's new drama-musical, SMASH, two writers, Julia and Tom (Debra Messing and Christian Borle), a producer, Eileen (Anjelica Huston) and a director, Derek (Jack Davenport) are determined to launch the next Broadway hit by showcasing the life of one of Hollywood's most legendary actresses.

At the forefront of the project are the two ladies vying for the lead, the ingenue, Karen Cartwright (Katharine McPhee) and the theatre-trained Ivy Lynn (Megan Hilty). As evident from their SMASH-ing performances in "Let Me Be Your Star", both women are worthy candidates for the role of a lifetime. Ivy has perfected the blonde bombshell look with the flirtatious mannerisms of Ms. Monroe, and Karen embodies the innocence and naivety of Norma Jean. For me, I wish the question wasn't "Who is the best Marilyn?" but "How can we combine the two to make the perfect Marilyn?"

After being bombarded with promos for this show for many months, I am happy that SMASH lives up to all of the hype, with great props to its amazing cast! I've always appreciated Katharine McPhee's remarkable talent. Her performance of "Over the Rainbow" on American Idol was one of the best vocals I've ever heard on the show, and her song, "Terrified" is terrific. I didn't know Megan Hilty before SMASH, but I've heard wonderful reviews about her performances in Broadway's 9 to 5: Musical and Wicked, and I am now in love with her incredible voice and presence. I strongly believe that Katharine and Megan will be two of 2012's biggest breakout stars!

Puppy Bowl VIII

2012-02-05T16:23:00.002-08:00

Superbowl Sunday may be the sporting event of the year, but its friendly and furry parody, Puppy Bowl VIII, provides the most aww-inducing spectacle of the year for animal lovers across the globe!

Animal Planet's annual Puppy Bowl features a cast of all-star critters. On the sidelines are the Chicken Cheerleaders and the Piggie Pep Squad to rev up positive energy for the players. To elevate the fan experience, a crew of Hamster Pilot work hard to give a Bird's Eye View of the action below from the Icebreaker's Blimp, while Meep the Bird tweets his commentary of the game to his Twitter followers. At the halfway mark, fabulous felines provide entertainment in the form of the Kitty Halftime Show.

The stars of the stadium, the Pedigree Pups, make up the starting line-ups, and each of the canines have their own cute and clever names and claims to fame. The hyperactive hounds score touchdowns with the balls and chew toys on the field - that is, if they don't get distracted by the refreshing bowls of water first!

This season's MVP Pooch Performer was rewarded to Fumble, the Chihuahua/Terrier Mix whose great enthusiasm on the field enabled him to make outstanding goals throughout the game. What is Fumble's fun fact? He has every Bow Wow song on his iPawd!

Two of my other favourite players are siblings Aberdeen and Abileen, the Australian Shepherd Mixes whose tail wagging determination led them to great triumphs!

All of the puppies on the Starting Line-up are shelter rescues. Learn more about animal adoption by checking out these Animal Planet resources.

The Sight Of The Stars Makes Me Dream

2012-02-04T19:54:00.001-08:00

“For my part, I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream.”
- Vincent Van Gogh

Better Than I Know Myself

2012-02-03T17:00:00.000-08:00

Think you know Adam Lambert? As the glamourous singer reveals in his music video for "Better Than I Know Myself", there is more to him than meets the eye! Directed by Ray Kay, the video finds the two sides of Adam, Light!Adam and Dark!Adam, in conflict with one another. Eventually, the serene and devious parts of Adam merge together, proving that it is possible to find harmony when you embrace all the different parts of your personality.

The Search For A Superstar

2012-02-02T22:10:00.065-08:00

During the final auditions episode of Season 11, American Idol aired this fantastic montage of Carrie Underwood's remarkable journey from small town dreams to large-scale superstardom. As they reflected back on Carrie's biggest moments, I began to wonder... After launching Carrie and Kelly Clarkson's careers, will Idol ever strike gold a third time? Since Carrie, no winner has ever become as big as she is. While many of the most recent Idol champions (Jordin Sparks, David Cook, Scotty McCreery) have been able to reach moderate levels of success, it has been a struggle to find someone who embodies that star quality that both Carrie and Kelly possess. It boggles my mind how Idol has failed to crown a female winner in the past few years, despite the fact that WOMEN are dominating the pop charts right now.

For the fourth consecutive year, my challenge to American Idol is this: Find a girl who will shine as bright as Carrie and Kelly do.

February

2012-02-01T22:10:00.019-08:00

HAPPY FEBRUARY!

I didn't anticipate the hecticness that was January (nor the irritating flu virus that didn't hesitate to make life even more difficult to cope with during these last couple weeks), but I am relieved to be getting a fresh start with this new month.

Here's to a newfound sense of peace and productivity in Febrrruary!

Scream

2012-01-31T22:10:00.044-08:00

When I heard that Glee was doing a Michael Jackson tribute episode, the first thought that immediately sprung to my mind was "Kevin McHale is the King of MJ covers - they better give him something good to do!"

My wish was granted in the form of this remake of Michael and Janet Jackson's music video for "Scream". Frustrated by constantly being beat down by their rivals, Artie (McHale) and Mike (Harry Shum Jr.) let out their angst and frustration in this futuristic dream sequence. While rocking out to this epic track, the guys are able to show off their dance moves and look cool while doing so (who knew that Harry could pull off the eyeliner so well?). "Scream" is one of the most daring, dynamic, and AWESOME performances that Glee has ever done.

Sh*t SFU Says

2012-01-30T22:10:00.033-08:00

Some students from my university created a parody of the popular "Sh*t Girls Say" meme called "Sh*t SFU Says" to bring attention to the hilarious sayings and actions that the Simon Fraser University community is guilty of committing.

Every situation that is highlighted in this video is both familiar and accurate. I for one am guilty of complaining about the never-ending stairs and waiting at the second bus stop for a 143 bus that will never come.

Screen Actors Guild 2012 Red Carpet Favourites

2012-01-29T22:16:00.000-08:00

Tonight, the Screen Actors Guild recognized their peers for a few of the most stunning screen performances of the past year. These were four of the style winners from the red carpet...

Emma Stone (The Help) in black Alexander McQueen, Viola Davis (The Help) in white and gold Marchesa, Emily Blunt (The Four Year Engagement) in emerald Oscar de la Renta and Jayma Mays (Glee) in sequin and lace Reem Acra.

A Moment Like This... It Was Just A Dream

2012-01-28T21:00:00.121-08:00

While confined to my sickbed due to a persistent case of the winter flu, I marathoned all of Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood's music videos on VEVO. These two American Idol Queens are the most successful winners (in terms of financial earnings, popularity, and longevity) to emerge from the competition since the show started in 2002. What is their secret to maintaining that "IT" factor after all of those years? On top of possessing incredible voices, Ms. Clarkson and Ms. Underwood are able to connect with people through their music, which covers all facets of human emotion and experience. Kelly is known for her empowering anthems (Miss Independent, Since U Been Gone, Never Again, Mr. Know It All), but she can also show you the pain of being hurt by someone you care about (Because Of You, Behind These Hazel Eyes). Carrie tells heartbreaking and heartwarming stories (So Small, Just a Dream, Temporary Home, Mama's Song) through the medium of song, but she also shares her sassy side through mistakes made, acts of revenge, and warnings against getting involved with Mr. Wrong (Last Name, Before He Cheats, Cowboy Casanova).

The answer to the question of staying on top in today's rapidly-changing world of entertainment? Be relevant and be real. Luckily, both ladies have done a spectacular job of accomplishing these goals!

New Name: Once Upon A Dreamer

2012-01-27T13:21:00.002-08:00

This blog has been renamed to Once Upon A Dreamer.

I have always been really meticulous when it comes to choosing names. The usernames and page names that you choose reflect who you are and what you stand for. I take this very seriously because want to make sure that I represent my image and personality accurately online.

People know me on most sites (Tumblr, Pinterest, etc) as darlingdivine, which is a testament to my love for Old Hollywood charm and style. However, that name has already been taken on Blogger. While I like my name, Elizabeth Rosalyn, I think it's best suited for an online portfolio, which I plan to set up sometime soon.

So here we have Once Upon a Dreamer, which I derived from the Disney classic, Sleeping Beauty. The name evokes a sense of sentimentality and optimism that fits perfectly well with my tagline: a girl whose hopes and dreams could adorn the sky...

And the name just so happened to be available on Blogger, so I knew that it was meant to be. :)

All of my past names should now redirect to here. Please adjust your bookmarks and affiliate links accordingly. Also, expect a layout redesign to follow shortly.

Thank you for your patience with my frequent indecisive regarding this blog!

What Pinterests You?

2012-01-26T22:49:00.001-08:00

I have a new online obsession.

Pinterest is a virtual pinboard where you can organize and share everything that you find beautiful or that inspires you. You can sort content into theme-based collections and 'pin' images from anywhere on the 'net.

In some ways, Pinterest is similar to Tumblr, but thus far, I find this site less chaotic and more visually appealing.

Follow me on Pinterest (darlingdivine) and check out my pinboards!

Good Girl Trespassing

2012-01-25T18:00:00.048-08:00

Two of American Idol's greatest superstars are launching their big comebacks this Spring!

Carrie Underwood will be releasing "Good Girl", the first single off of her fourth studio album, on February 23rd. The Country Queen has revealed the song will be a "fun" and "upbeat" track, which will surely rally her fans' excitement for this new era.

Adam Lambert recently shared the cover art for his sophomore album, Trespassing, via Twitter. Lambert's record, due on March 20th, has received positive comments from reviewers, who praised his daring and eclectic musical stylings.

And The Oscars 2012 Nominees Are...

2012-01-24T21:00:00.030-08:00

The list of nominees for the 84th annual Academy Awards were announced this week!

Two of my favourite films of the year - Martin Scorsese's Hugo and Michel Hazanavicius's The Artist - are leading the Race to the Oscars with 10 and 11 nominations each.

The Best Picture category is a crowded cluster of films, including War Horse, The Artist, Moneyball, The Descendants, The Tree of Life, Midnight in Paris, The Help, Hugo, and Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close. Having already seen 5 out of the 9 nominees, I believe that I am in pretty good shape this awards season!

My one gripe is that The Adventures of Tintin failed to receive a nomination in the Best Animated Feature category, seeing as the movie just won Best Animated Film at the Golden Globes. That being said, the only animated feature nominee that I've seen is Kung Fu Panda 2.

Here's to hoping that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, Midnight in Paris, The Muppets and Jane Eyre win some statuettes in the groups they are nominated in!