Rhymes and Riffs

A Rhyme: "Delusional" - Simon Curtis

2011-06-25T17:24:00.009-04:00

From Simon Curtis' debut album released on his own independent label in March of last year, "Delusional" showcases electronic elements prevalent on 8Bit Heart. The first verse gives the impression that the song may focus on naysayers who write Curtis off as someone who won't make it in the music business:

Here's to all the people who've been trying to keep me down
Got their fingers in my collar trying to turn me all around
I find it so funny to hear how much they hate
Try to push me to the ground then say they love me to my face
Say what you mean and don't try to deceive me
I so want to believe it, yes I want to, yes I do
Say what you want and don't try to prolong it
If you want to so-long it, then I want you to, yes I do

This can be thought into the second verse where Curtis proclaims "Now I know you're gonna try to say I stole this verse from Tim'..." (though his voice is more reminiscent of Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys, his musical styling is more in line with Justin Timberlake's) but the rest of the verse suggests he's really referring to a lover who left him for someone else. Whether this lover is a man or a woman is up for debate, as there is speculation if the singer is gay. All that aside "Delusional" is a song that easily fits into the current atmosphere of music, which is why 8Bit Heart was downloaded 150,000 times since its release.

Source: Billboard.com, simon-curtis.com

Picture credit: simon-curtis.com

A Rhyme: "Moves Like Jagger" - Maroon 5 feat Christina Aguilera

2011-06-21T19:56:00.005-04:00

The new single from Maroon 5 and Christina Aguilera, "Moves Like Jagger" debuted today much to eager Xtina fans' delight. The song is infectiously catchy and relies heavily on it's funky disco-esque beat that is characteristic of some of Maroon 5's songs. Adam Levine's voice is smooth along side the notable guitar. (Which might echo Party In The USA from two summers ago). Aguilera supplies guest vocals on the bridge and announces her arrival on the track with her signature vocal stylings and gives the song a fresh feminine take. Though The Voice judges often bud heads on the show, they show great chemistry here. It's a tune that is sure to be something of a summer smash.

Listen:

A Rhyme: "Strawberry Wine" - Deana Carter

2011-05-29T20:26:00.009-04:00

The debut single "Strawberry Wine", from country crooner Deana Carter, was released in 1996 from her debut album Did I Shave My Legs For This?. Before being recorded the year earlier, songwriter Matraca Berg shopped it around to labels but was shut down by companies who insisted the song was too long and controversial. Carter recorded the song and it became the most successful song of her career.

Listening to the song and viewing the lyrics, you get a sense of just how special the hometown is for the speaker (which is not necessarily Carter, since Berg wrote the song based on her experience growing up in Luck, Wisconsin). It's where she lost her innocence and first fell in love. Carter sings the song in a way that makes her fondness believable even though the fields become overgrown so many years later. The song has remained one of the most popular country tunes and was later covered in 2006 by country duo The Wreckers.

Picture credit: amazon.com

A Riff: How Hip-Hop Wasn't My Thing

2011-03-12T20:19:00.015-05:00

When I was younger, I never used to listen to Hip-Hop/Rap. You could say that I never grew up, but while most of my peers had moved on past the era of 2000s bubblegum pop, I stayed with it and continued listening to the genre and found myself listening to, and liking my local hits and top-40 radio stations. During this time period I even found myself moving into country music and liking it as well. I didn't think this was a bad thing until my peers started talking about artists I knew nothing about. Lil' Fizz--who is that? Hip-Hop and R&B were out of my realm. The only time I was exposed to R&B was in the car when my mom had it on those stations (that was when R&B was good. I still prefer '90s R&B over today's any day.)

Lil' Fizz, member of the boy band B2K, that split in 2004

When I would ask "Who is that?" I would get a flurry of "You don't know who____is?!" It made me feel embarrassed. Then when the conversation came to "Who is your favorite singer?" or "What kind of music do you listen to?" my answers would be criticized. Don't let me bring up the fact that i listened to country music, because as many people know, apparently country music is a forsaken genre. It just doesn't have the mass appeal that other genres do. But I did bring it up and that pretty much stopped the conversation. Unless there was a "Why do you like it? I can't relate to it." It's not about relating to it, I don't related to agriculture being my way of living either, nor do I relate to drug dealing and lusting after women. And since that had such a terrible reaction, I dare not tell them who my favorite singer is. (See my twitter and you will quickly find out who it is.)

A certain...Fatale

Recently, however I have liked Hip-Hop and R&B mostly due to me just being exposed to it more. Undoubtedly the best artist out right now is Eminem. simply because he is so refreshingly honest and raw at the same time, plus, there are not antics. Em just is. And now I like the Hip-Hop genre and R&B too. There is room for Pop and Hip-Hop both in my repertoire.

Image Credit: Randee St. Nicholas, bestylistik.com

A Rhyme: "Turning Tables" - Adele

2011-03-11T19:07:00.007-05:00

I love songs that just make you feel vulnerable. "Turning Tables" by Adele is one of those songs. On her second studio effort, 21, Adele took inspiration from her past relationship which is how she wrote songs like this one. Because this song is so well written, I won't say much except that her voice does all the explaining necessary, evoking emotion that can only be felt if you have experienced the lyrics. I just love the way she sings the lyrics and the arrangement adds to that as well.

A Rhyme: "Since I've Been Loving You" - Led Zeppelin

2011-02-14T17:24:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day is here and what better way to celebrate than with a love song!

From the album, III, released in October of 1970, "Since I've Been Loving You" is a blues-rock song about a man in love. Thought it may seem so on the surface, this song isn't just any typical love song. Basically a guy is so in love with his woman, but since they have fallen for each other she's driven him crazy. Listening to the track you can definitely feel the sanity leaving Robert Plant's body. He's worried that his lover hasn't been treating him well--at least that's what everybody is trying to tell him.

This is a popular song of the band's and has been covered by British singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae albeit in a modified slower, more relaxed version. The classic can be found below.

Image credit: Atlantic Records

A Rhyme: "There Is No Arizona" - Jamie O'Neal

2011-02-08T17:56:00.004-05:00

Released in 2000 with the singer's debut album Shiver, Jamie O' Neal's "There Is No Arizona" remains one of her most popular tracks to date. I first heard this song probably a year after it was released when my grandpa started listening to country radio in the car. After that, I would watch GAC and see the video. Ever since then, I have loved the song. I came across it again recently and bought it from iTunes and upon listening to it again, I've truly understood what it is about.

The gist of the story is that a guy promises to take his girlfriend to Arizona where they'll live out the rest of their lives together and all their dreams will come true. As it turns out, he goes there without her leaving her waiting for him until one day, it dawns on her that he isn't coming back. The reason why this song is so poignant is because of the way the writers decided to relay the fact that a guy had promised his girl these dreams and now they were never going to be realized. They simply say that the hopes will never be true because Arizona doesn't exist. O'Neal does a great job of conveying the emotion evicted in the song. I feel it every time.

Image Credit: Mercury Nashville

Music Video: F**kin' Perfect - P!nk

2011-01-31T18:56:00.006-05:00

The latest single from P!nk's first greatest hits compilation, Greatest Hits...So Far!!!, is one of those songs that is meant to let listeners know that they are just right the way they are. It's a cliche topic that has been written about numerous times but with P!nk, an artist known for sticking up for the underdogs (see her last smash "Raise Your Glass" ), you get the feeling that she is being genuine. In fact P!nk says in a message on her website how important the meaning of this video and song is:

"Making this video was a very emotional experience for me, as was writing this song. I have a life inside of me, and I want her or him to know that I will accept him or her with open and loving and welcoming arms."

The video displays a chilling image of a cutting; even I, who isn't usually move by such a thing since I see it shown in the media and on television so often, was put a little off center by the image. The message of the video is clear by the end of the clip: you are perfect to those who love you.

Check out the video below. What's your reaction to the chilling scenes?

Credit: pinkspage.com

A Rhyme: "Voodoo" - Alexz Johnson

2010-07-20T12:55:00.004-04:00

Many know Alexz Johnson from the hit TV shows Instant Star and So Weird but Johnson's true passion is singing and that she does well on her debut disc. The title track, "Voodoo", is essentially about Johnson wondering what mystical or emotional power has her falling for her guy. If you're listening to the song thinking it'll sound like a tune from Jude Harrison (Johnson's Instant Star character) then you may be disappointed. Many site the song and the LP as a huge departure from the singer's TV show songs and I have to agree.

I came upon "Voodoo" when I was on the Internet one day and thought, "I wonder what ever happened to that album Alexz Johnson was supposed to be recording." I went to her official site, clicked on "Voodoo" and immediately loved the song. After streaming the album on alexzjohnson.com I downloaded the album from iTunes and have been playing the LP practically non-stop. Check out the title track below.

Picture Credit: Wikipedia

A Rhyme: "Red" - Daniel Merriweather

2010-05-09T11:36:00.004-04:00

Released on Colombia records, "Red" is actually Daniel Merriweather's second single from his sophomore album, Love & War. The song debuted on the UK Singles Chart at number 5, Merriweather's second top 10 single. The singer says "Red is a song "about the blindness of war and the absence of compassion displayed by western administrations."

Currently featured as a Vh1 "You Oughta Know" artist, his song has been playing quite often on Jump Start in the morning. It was there that I first heard the song and liked it ever since. I'd describe Daniel Merriweather as a male version of British songstress Adele. If you like her song, "Chasing Pavements" you'll probably like this song too. Check it out below!

Source: Wikipedia

A Riff: Disney Soundtrack Songs

2010-05-09T10:41:00.004-04:00

What child born in the late 20th century hasn't heard these classic Disney soundtrack songs? These are the songs many children have grown up with, ones that any one person can start singing and another could finish. From "A Whole New World" to "Hakkuna Matata", Disney songs take you back into the past and make you feel like a kid again.

Take a trip down memory lane with the playlist below:

A Rhyme: "Eveyone's At It" - Lily Allen

2010-04-27T16:29:00.013-04:00

A departure from her previous work on her 2006 debut album, Alright, Still, Lily Allen's latest effort features electro-pop songs that are similar to the trend in pop music this year. The song "Eveyone's At It" details people's use of prescription drugs ranging from "grown politicians to young adolescents". A striking line in the song to me is this one: "So your daughter's depressed well get her straight on the Prozac/But little do you know she already takes crack"

Many people around the globe abuse drugs. And prescription drugs are more easily obtained than many realize. King of Rock 'n' Roll Elvis Presley faked symptoms of various illnesses in order to obtain prescription drugs to help him during his concerts in the 1970s. He even bought a book that listed prescription drugs and their symptoms. Collage students take pills like Adderall, a drug used to treat ADD/ADHD to help them pull all-nighters. It is truly disheartening to think that young adults and teens would resort to such things. Would you take prescription medication if it helped your studies? Listen to the song on below and tell me what you think.

Source: lilyallenmusic.com, CBS.com

Music Video: Dan Black featuring Kid Cudi - "Symphonies"

2010-04-22T17:05:00.004-04:00

This video actually contains the remix of British singer Dan Black's song "Symphonies" from his debut album ((UN)). The clip features various "movies" of the singer and rapper Kid Cudi which range from French films to Sci-Fi flicks to Westerns. It's different to most music videos out there right now, which makes it very appealing to me. I love the song too, which echos Rihanna's 2007 hit "Umbrella" (a song that Dan Black made a mashup of with legendary rapper Biggie's "Hypnotize")

The video is below. Comment and tell me what you think!

Dan Black - Subterranean - MTV Shows

Source: Wikipedia, MTV.com

Music Video: "Icky Thump" - The White Stripes

2010-04-13T17:50:00.010-04:00

The first single released from the album of the same name, "Icky Thump" is a socially conscious song about immigration. It criticises the current American immigration policy, which also makes it the first politically charged song the band has put out since "The Big Three Killed My Baby" from their self-titled debut album. Probably the most important lyrics in the song can be found towards the end of the song. I think these lyrics portray the true meaning of the song and quite possibly exactly how lead singer (and co-writer of the song) Jack White feels about immigration policy in America.

"White Americans
What? Nothin' better to do?
Why don't you kick yourself out
You're an immigrant too.

Who's using who?
What should we do?
Well you can't be a pimp
And a prostitute too."

Watch the video for "Icky Thump" below.

The White Stripes - Rock The Deuce - MTV Shows

A Rhyme: "Make You Feel My Love" - Adele

2010-03-31T18:18:00.005-04:00

On her debut album, 19, Adele covers the 1997 Bob Dylan song, "Make You Feel My Love". It was released as the fifth single from the album on November 3, 2008. After Adele performed the song on Comic-Relief it re-entered the UK iTunes top 100 songs at number 42 . This is a popular cover song, as Billy Joel covered the track for his greatest hits album in 1997 and country singers Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood recorded a version for the Hope Floats soundtrack in 1998.

I like this song because, like most of the songs on Adele's album, it focuses on her voice. The songs on her album are stripped down with little instrumentation. Adele brilliantly sings on the record (probably because most of the songs on her album are about a breakup or falling for the wrong guy) but then again, anyone can out sing Bob Dylan.

Source: Wikipedia
Picture Credit: Wikipedia

Music Video: "Someday" - Nickelback

2010-03-20T11:33:00.005-04:00

The Canadian post-grunge band Nickelback followed up their 2001 album, Silver Side Up with 2003's The Long Road. The album's lead single was "Someday" which reached number 7 on Billboard's Hot 100 chart. It details the break up of a couple and a man's wanting to repair the relationship instead of just throwing in the towel.

I first saw the music video on Vh1's Top 20 Video Countdown in 2003. It's pretty literal in terms of the concept and how it explains the video. But the true plot slowly unravels starting at the end of the first chorus. It's a good video and while it may come off a little cliché (like the song's lyrics) everything works well together. The most important thing is the ending and it's anything but a music video cliché. It leaves you wondering about what happened. Check it out below or listen to the song at the right. (It's track 2!)

Nickelback - New Music - More Music Videos

Picture Credit: Wikipedia
Source: Wikipedia, MTV.com

A Rhyme: "Do You Realize??" - The Flaming Lips

2010-03-18T07:21:00.005-04:00

"Do You Realize??" is the first single from The Flaming Lips' 2002 album Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots. Coyne revealed during an interview that while recording the album Steven Drozd was trying to rid himself of a heroin addiction. During breaks from recording the album, he would have a hard time with his withdrawals. Coyne, listening to Drozd cry and thinking about his own late father, he wrote "Do You Realize??", a song often considered one of the bands' most popular songs.

The song has been used in many commercials including a 2002 Hewlett-Packard commercial and a 2007 Land Rover commercial. It has also been used in commercials for Vh1--which is where I first heard the song. What I like about "Do You Realize??" is the bass and the bells. The use of those elements evokes a majestic feeling, a light feeling. This is the kind of song that just makes you happy and gives you hope. Check out the song below!

Picture credit: Wikipedia

A Rhyme: "Hanging On Too Long" – Duffy

2010-03-08T16:52:00.008-05:00

Duffy's debut album, Rockferry was released on March 3, 2008. The album won a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Album at the 51 Grammy Awards in February. Rockferry was ranked number 30 on Rolling Stone magazine's Best Albums of 2008. "Hanging On Too Long" is the 6th track on the record and was written by Duffy, Jimmy Hogarth, and Eg White.

I have to admit, when I first heard Duffy and her debut single "Mercy", I didn't see what all the hype was about. But when my favorite singer Britney Spears mentioned that she likes her in an interview, I decided I'd giver her album a listen. To my delight, I thoroughly enjoyed the album. On of the tracks that immediately became my favorite was "Hanging On Too Long". I've always wanted to hear a song that went the way that song goes--the melody, the rhythm, everything. That song is one of my favorites ever. Listen to the song below!

Picture source: Wikipedia

"Rude Boy" (Music Video) - Rihanna

2010-02-28T10:48:00.011-05:00

I first saw this video on Vh1's Top 20 Video Countdown. I'm not the biggest Rihanna fan but when I saw this video, directed by Melina, I couldn't help but watch. The flamboyant colors immediately capture you along with the extremely catchy hook. Whenever Rihanna says "want, want, want" or "boom, boom, boom" The words pop out in that pattern behind her. The video is clearly influnced by pop art.

The song itself has old school Rihanna written all over it, taking influence from her Bajan roots in Barbados. And the flashy colors assist the songs island flare; Rihanna even looks like her pre- Good Girl Gone Bad self when she dons a long brown wig for some of the video, but she still keeps it like her current self with the golden spiked leotard. And don't be fooled by the song's bright presence; this is the third single from RiRi's Rated R album and it's a little naughty. Lyrics like "I like the way you touch me there/I like the way you pull my hair/Baby, if I don't feel it/I ain’t faking, no no" are matched by Rihanna's suggestive moves on a lion and her coy winking after the verse.

I really enjoyed this video! Watch it below, and tell me your thoughts in the comments. :)

Rihanna - Sucker Free - MTV Shows

Credit: Ultimate-Rihanna, MTV.com

Extra: Britney Spears - "You Oughta Know" (Live)

2010-02-20T11:25:00.018-05:00

During the second American leg of her tour, The Circus: Starring Britney Spears, Britney performed a cover of the Alanis Morisette song "You Oughta Know" in Greensboro, North Carolina. Since this song was not originally in the set, it surprised the crowed--in a good way! Britney stood at a blinged-out microphone stand and rocked out the song. What was most surprising about the performance was that Spears was actually singing live! That's right, Britney Spears was singing with her own voice with no lipsynching!

And while Britney didn't sound perfect, she sounded good. What pleased fans the most was that she took the time to sing with her own voice and not mime. She sang the song a few more times during the American leg of the tour, but then put the song to rest. This was the only song she snag completely live during her tour, pleasing her fans all over.

Check out the video below.

Source: YouTube, BritneySpearsBlackout.com

A Riff: Kelly Clarkson & P!nk

2010-02-17T15:59:00.007-05:00

P!nk and Kelly Clarkson are two of my favorite artists.

I first really got into P!nk when I heard her song "Just Like A Pill" (posted about here). To this day that is one of my favorite songs of her's. Other songs of P!nk's that are my favorites are "Eventually", "One Foot Wrong", "I Don't Believe You" & "Mean". She'll definitely be posted on more on the blog.

Kelly Clarkson has been posted about on this blog more often than other artists. While I didn't see her on American Idol , I own her first album and have bought all of her records since. My favorite songs of Kelly's include, "Don't Let Me Stop You", "Maybe", "Impossible", and "Don't Waist Your Time". Kelly is due to release a new album later this year.

A Rhyme: "Put a Diamond In It" - Semi Precious Weapons

2010-02-08T15:41:00.009-05:00

Semi Precious Weapons is a glam rock group from New York City that was formed in 2004. Most recently, they've been spotted on Lady Gaga's The Monster Ball tour as an opening act. "Put a Diamond in It" is from the Semi Precious Weapons EP.

Front man Justin Tranter is an openly gay man but carries himself androgynously. When I saw the band at Lady Gaga's concert in December, he looked like a woman. I thought he was a transgendered woman at first but then I realized that he was a gay man in drag. When the band performed, one of the songs I immediately liked was "Put a Diamond in It". It's just one of those songs that get you on your feet and make you want to "rock out". Check out the band performing the song below.

Source: Wikipedia

Picture Credit: Interscope

A Rhyme: "Electric Feel"- MGMT

2010-02-03T15:37:00.008-05:00

This is the second single from MGMT's debut album, Oracular Sepctacular . The song was released in June of 2008 and was NME's #5 Best Single of 2008. French electronic duo Justice remixed the track and won a Grammy award for Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical in 2009. The song was featured in season 2 of the CW's Gossip Girl.

I first heard this song in the video game, Midnight Club Los Angeles and I've liked it ever sense. This is just one of those songs that put you in a great mood and makes you feel like dancing no matter where you are. I've only heard a clip of the album version, but the one featured in the video game, the Justice remix, is my favorite. Justice remixed Britney Spears' 2003 single "Me Against the Music" featuring Madonna and it's one of the best remixes of that song I've heard so there's no surprise why I like their version of "Electric Feel".

Picture credit: Amazon
Source: Wikipedia

Music Video: "Every Other Weekend" - Reba McEntire & Kenny Chesney

2010-01-25T18:36:00.007-05:00

The third and final single from Reba McEntire's 2007 album Reba: Duets features country heartthrob Kenny Chesney. The two alternate verses taking the roles of a divorced couple who share custody of their two children and drop them off "every other weekend". The song details how the parents secretly desire to be together again--but they won't tell the other how they feel, fearing they won't feel same way.

"Evey Other Weekend"'s video features Joanna García and Steve Howey from McEntire's sitcom Reba which ran from 2001 to 2007. Reba appears in the video but her duet partner, Kenny, doesn't.

As a viewer of the sitcom, I was stunned to see that when the video came on TV's Van and Cheyenne was a divorced couple. How could Reba's cutest couple be divorced with all they've been through since the shows premiere?

The video for "Every Other Weekend" can be seen below.

Reba McEntire - New Music - More Music Videos

Source: MTV.com, wikipedia

A Rhyme: "Irvinie" - Kelly Clarkson

2010-01-18T13:08:00.006-05:00

The song "Irvine" seems to be about a person who is struggling with depression and has attempted to commit suicide--a near death experience which causes them to see an angel. In the song they ask for help, saying they have been lonely all their lives. They beg for the angel to stay with them until the "darkness leaves" and to just take them from their misery. The song clearly conveys the painfulness of the disease.

Depression is a serious condition that affects millions of people. I think Kelly Clarkson, who co-wrote the song with Aben Eubanks, does a brilliant job of showing another side of depressions and suicide that I have never heard communicated in a song. Listen to the words carefully as you play the song below.

Picture credit: Wikipedia

Spotlight: Billboard.com Artists of the Decade

2009-12-15T16:26:00.004-05:00

The end of the decade is near and so Billboard.com has compiled a list of the 100 Artists of the Decade. For your viewing pleasure I have once again used One True Media to compile a montage of the top 20 artists of the decade. They are (in order of their rank): Eminem, Usher, Nelly, Beyonce, Alicia Keys, 50 Cent, Nickleback, Britney Spears, Destiny's Child, Jay-Z, Mariah Carey, The Black Eyed Peas, P!nk, Kelly Clarkson, Kanye West, Linkin Park, Ludacris, Rihanna, Creed, and Christina Aguilera.

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Music: The Black Eyed Peas "I Gotta Feeling"

Spotlight: Featured Rhymes

2009-12-10T18:27:00.002-05:00

Here's is a video featuring some of the Rhymes that I've posted on the site. Enjoy!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

A Rhyme: "I Turn To You" - Christina Aguilera

2009-12-01T15:42:00.007-05:00

"I Turn To You" is a song written by legendary song writer Diane Warren who is responsible for hits by many artists. The song, which was originally recorded by R&B group All-4-One for the soundtrack to the 1996 film Space Jam, was covered by Aguilera when she was recording her debut, self-titled album. Released as the album's third single in the spring of 2000, the song peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 4 weeks.

The song's theme is thanking a parental figure, but it can also be a song about friendship. A true friend is one that will be a "shield from the storm...to keep me safe and warm". lyrics for Christina's song can be found here. Below is a list of ten rules for keeping friendships strong.

Tell your secrets.

Be honest.

Apologize when you hurt each other's feelings.

Keep promises.

Be there when they need you.

Be able to accept them for who they are--flaws and all!

Tell them how you feel.

Be able to accept and understand their opinions and viewpoints.

If you have a long distance friend, work hard to maintain that relationship.

Never take your friend for granted; be sure to compliment them.

A Rhyme: "Lover's Spit" - Broken Social Scene

2009-11-25T10:18:00.006-05:00

"Lover's Spit" is featured on the band's 2002 album You Forgot It in People. It, along with "Anthems for a Seventeen Year-Old Girl" are both fan-favorites. The album features complex and experimental musical techniques and a wide range of different instruments. In 2003, the year the album was reissued, it won the Juno Award for Alternative Album of the Year. Sylus Magazine put it in 7th place on their Top 50 Albums: 2000-2005 list.

I first heard this song by listening to Jim Carrey's (woo hoo!) iTunes celebrity playlist. The man has excellent taste in music by the way. Anyway, this was a song that I immediately liked. I haven't quite been able to figure out exactly what the song is about, but I'm sure it's pretty deep. Mind you, the lyrics are suggestive but the song is a great one nevertheless, without the gimmicky lyrics. Many think the song is about meaningless love. That seems about right. See the lyrics here.

Picture credit: wikipedia

A Rhyme: "Life Goes On" - LeAnn Rimes

2009-11-25T08:47:00.008-05:00

The release of "Life Goes On" in 2002 marks a departure in Rimes' career from country to pop and from girl to woman. While LeAnn enjoyed cross-over success in 2000 with songs featured in the film Coyote Ugly, (most notably "Can't Fight The Moonlight"), this was the first time she truly changed her sound. The album Twisted Angel is a mix of pop and R&B. The video for "Life Goes On" was shot in New Orleans and was perhaps most notable for LeAnn's more exposed clothing and suggestive movements. The song is about letting go of the past.

I enjoy anytime an artist decides to change their sound. It makes for something more interesting, especially when the change is something so unexpected. LeAnn lost some fans when she released this record, but I know she gained some as well. This is one of my favorite records of her's and "Life Goes On" is on of my favorite songs from the album.

Picture Source: eil.com

A Riff: Social Networking Gone Too Far

2009-11-22T11:19:00.006-05:00

At a Clayton County school in Georgia, two teachers got into a fight at their jobs over a Facebook love letter from a fellow male teacher. Both teacher's claimed to be romantically involved with the same man. At one point, teachers Ebony Cobb and Chaka Smith fought inside a classroom, in front of students, shouting expletives in front of the children. The entire story can be read here.

So the question is, when does social networking cross the line? I think it goes over board when people post way too much of their personal business online. Also, when information like who you are dating and what is going on with that person comes into play and it starts to interfere with your professional life, then you have done something wrong. Two years ago, facebook removed photos of mothers breastfeeding their babies and banned others for "obscene content", angering thousands. But it must be understood that posting such photos is graphic and shouldn't' be allowed.

Personally, I am a private person. I don't put my business out in the street for others to know. I know what lines shouldn't be crossed. Do you?

Sources: Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Sydney Morning Herald

A Rhyme: "Confessions" - Usher

2009-11-11T15:45:00.015-05:00

"Confessions" or "Confessions Part II" is the fourth single released by R&B crooner Usher on his 2004 album of the same name. It is a continuation of the interlude, "Confessions Part I" which tells of a mans infidelity. Part II goes on to convey a man confessing his infidelity to his beau about getting his mistress pregnant. Of course, the song stirred rumors that Usher himself had impregnated a woman while cheating on a girlfriend, but Usher maintained that it had never happened to him. Instead, one of the co-writers of the song, producer Jermaine Dupri admitted that the ideas behind the songs on the album are his. Still, rumors persisted that Usher had cheated on a girlfriend and knocked up a lover.

The issue of pregnancy, specifically unplanned ones, still looms. Especially among teens. The teen pregnancy rate has been increasing in recent years. Perhaps the most shocking aspect of this trend is that some teens actually want to get pregnant--as young as age 13! Some defend teens, saying they feel a need to be loved or they feel a void that needs to be filled. But teen pregnancy is inexcusable and is the fault of both, irresponsible partners. It is a serious undertaking to raise a child and it should, not be taken lightly.

Picture Source: wikipedia, blogs.blackvoices.com

A Riff: Blogging for Fun

2009-11-04T20:23:00.017-05:00

Why do I blog? Well, simply put, I do it because I enjoy it! Blogging allows me to express things about about myself about the topics I enjoy. I love music; I always have. Music is something every and anyone can relate to. So blogging about music is really fun because it allows me to talk about why I enjoy and I can explain what I like about it so much.

On this blog, I can have fun expressing my certain likes and even dislikes about a particular song or artist. Previously, I have often wanted a medium through which I could discuss such topics but I was unsure about how I could do that. Now that I have found blogging, I have a forum in which I can have fun discussing my favorite topic.

To celebrate the fun I've had on the blog, I've included a musical slide show showcasing the different Rhymes I've featured so far. Have fun!

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Picture cred: condemnedtorocknroll.files.wordpress.com, .avistarentals.com, ultimateturntables.com

Spotlight: Artists and Self Expresion

2009-10-28T15:47:00.009-04:00

Self Expression is the expression of one's individuality usually through creative activities. Many artists use self expression in their work. Whether it's in their songs or in their music videos or concerts, many performers use their career as a means of expressing themselves. My favorite singer, Britney Spears, (Yay!) said in her 2008 documentary Britney: For The Record that art is her therapy. Many singers who also dance on stage during concerts get to express themselves and their music through their choreography .

But what happens when artists' self expression goes too far? Britney Spears has been criticized for going too far during her concerts and live performances, like at the 2001 MTV Video Music Awards when she debuted her single "I'm A Slave 4 U" and performed with a snake. She received much criticism for her so-called raunchy and suggestive performance. Many think Britney goes to far in her performances and songs because of what she expresses. My personal opinion? Artists have the right to express themselves how ever they feel as long as it isn't causing anyone harm. When an artist is expressing themselves and someone is harmed, then self expression has gone too far.

Picture credit: britney.com, killthelights.org

Spotlight: Country Music & Suicide

2009-10-19T16:01:00.008-04:00

According to an article published back in 2007, a study shows a link between listening to country music and committing suicide. The article asserts, "Country music is hypothesized to nurture a suicidal mood through its concerns with problems common in the suicidal population, such as marital discord, alcohol abuse, and alienation from work." I don't know about you, but while country music of today still talks about these issues, that sounds like the country music of the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. The report goes on to say that "the greater the airtime devoted to country music, the greater the white suicide rate." So basically if you listen to country music while on a road trip from Georgia to Florida, you'll probably want to commit suicide by the time you get down there? Or will it take a while to sink in, and by the time you get back home to Georgia, you'll want to commit suicide?

What I don't understand are the terms under which the study was conducted under. What kind of country music did the people in the metropolitan areas listen to? And for exactly hoe long? By which artists? Were they male or female? Does it matter if the particular song or songs were up tempo songs or ballads? I first started truly listening to country music when I was in the 4th grade. I listened to LeAnn Rimes, (I used to have her song "How Do I Live" on repeat while my sister on my way to gymnastics! I've always listened to her.) Rascal Flatts, Terri Clark, Toby Keith, Kenny Chesney and other artists. While the thought of my immortality does cross my mind sometimes (who doesn't think about their dying day--presumably when they're old and gray? ) but I never thought about seriously ending my life prematurely. I still listen to country music, but not as much as I did back then. I do indulge in the sounds of LeAnn Rimes, Rascal Flatts, and Carrie Underwood more than other artists, and while their songs may deal with serious topics, they don't push me to think about ending my own life. Maybe it's because I listen to other genres of music as too. Who knows?

You can read the rest of the article here, although the entire report is unavailable because it seems to be out of date.

Source: The Monkey Cage

A Rhyme: "Breathe Me" - Sia

2009-10-13T15:51:00.009-04:00

"Breathe Me" is a song by Australian alternative singer, Sia (pronounced See-uh). It is featured on her 2004 album "Colour The Small One". The song became popular in America when it was featured on the series finale of the HBO drama Six Feet Under. The song has been used in commercials including the Coca-Cola commercial aired during the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. Since the song became so popular, the album was re-released in 2006. The song seems to be about someone who is in desperate need of a friend and companion, as you can tell by reading the lyrics and listening to the track here.

When I first heard this song, I thought the Sia’s voice was very unusual to say the least. I admit I didn’t like the song very much at first. But upon a second and third listen I liked the song more and more. The best part is when Sia sings “…and breathe me” for the last time and the music slows down--almost stopping, and then swells again becoming even grander than it was before. Sia is a true talent and hearing this song has led me to further listen to her work. You’ll be hearing more from her in the future on this blog.

Credit: Rhapsody

A Rhyme: "I Look So Good (Without You)" - Jessie James

2009-10-03T18:05:00.007-04:00

"I Look So Good (Without You)" was written by Jessie James, Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins, and Savan Kotecha. The song was released on August 4, 2009 to iTunes and released to radio on August 25th. Rudy Klapper from Sputnikmusic said of the song: "James is at her best when she’s imitating Aguilera’s brazen sass on the rhyming verses of “the song,” perhaps the only tolerable real ballad on the album".

I heard this song today at the hair dresser and I really thought it was a really sweet, wonderful song. I've never heard a song about a woman whose broken up with her beau put into lyrics like that. I love the way Jessie sounds in this song. It is much more tolerable to hear her sing in this song and she sings it very well. Some compare her vocal stylings to the likes of Christina Aguilera, LeAnn Rimes, or Carrie Underwood. Of the three, I think she sounds the most like Carrie with a mix of Rihanna. I really like this song; it's a sweet typical pop ballad.

Picture credit: Wikipedia

Source: Sputnikmusic

A Rhyme: "Closer" - Kings of Leon

2009-09-19T11:50:00.008-04:00

"Closer" is the opening track on Kings of Leon's 2008 album Only By the Night. The song features electronic and synth elements and guitar that sounds like psychedelic rock. The song isn't typical of the bands usual sound. According to the bands website, lead singer Caleb Followill says the song is about a lovesick vampire.

Personally, I see the song as something a little more realistic. I see it as being about a lovesick man who was stranded in a relationship by the woman he loved. Now he is wondering if she still cares. Even still, he continues to chase her but the chase is taking a toll. I really like this song because it's so laid back and moody. But even with the lazy rock-synth beat, there is a stong element in the song.

Picture credit: Wikipedia

Spotlight: Kier's Playlist

2009-09-13T11:15:00.016-04:00

Here's a playlist full of the music that I like. Many songs that I like are NOT on here so there may be another one in the future. Enjoy!

A Rhyme: "Good Life" - Kanye West f/ T-Pain

2009-09-09T16:41:00.009-04:00

"Good Life" is basically about the life Kanye has always wanted, and the life he now has. The song won a Grammy in 2008 and features John Legend and Ne-Yo on background vocals. T-Pain is featured on the track that samples keys from Michael Jackson's "P.Y.T . (Pretty Young Thing)". Kanye wrote the song along with others including legendary composer Quincy Jones.

This song is great because who doesn't wan't to live a life like that? In the song, Kanye talks about wishing he was living the "Good Life" as a kid and now he has made that a reality. A notable line in the song is " 50 told me go 'head switch the style up/And if they hate then let 'em hate/And watch the money pile up". People are always going to hate on you when ever you try to do something different. But when you end being successful, you're the one who gets the last laugh.

Picture credit: Wikipedia

Credit: Rhapsody

A Rhyme: "Limp" - Fiona Apple

2009-09-05T21:35:00.005-04:00

"Limp" was the second single from Fiona Apple's 1999 album When the pawn hits the conflicts he thinks like a king... The album title actually has more that 400 characters and once held the world record for the longest album title. "Limp" was a less successful single than the first single from the album, "Fast As You Can". Fiona's then boyfriend directed all the videos for the singles from her sophmore album.

I don't think I've ever quite heard a song like this before. It was one of those songs that when I first listened to it i thought. "Hmm I don't know if I'll like this." But then it picked up and I really liked it. Fiona seems kind of angry on this but it's like she has a right to be. She's basically saying that this person provokes her and then blames her for her reaction, which seems to be an angry one. Sounds like something I can relate to.

Picture credit: Wikipedia

A Rhyme: "Shadow" - Britney Spears

2009-09-02T16:34:00.012-04:00

Britney Spears' song "Shadow" is from her 2003 album In The Zone. One reviewer compared the song to an 80's power ballad in terms of the musical arrangement. The song is about a girl who is in love with a man that doesn't return the feeling to her. Contrary to popular belief , Britney does write (many) of her own songs. Whether or not they make it onto the albums is another thing. "Shadow" is one of the songs she wrote (with several others, including Charlie Midnight) that did make it onto the album.

The reason why I like this song is because it doesn't sound like any song Britney has ever done before. I always enjoy when an artist does something different with their music, and that's basically what In The Zone is. It's a transition from Britney's pure-pop sound of the past into the more futuristic, dance sound that she currently has. "Shadow" is my favorite song off of this album. It's written in a poetic metaphore that sweetly compares a man's deprivation of love to a silhouette. Very artistic.

Picture credit: Wikipedia

A Rhyme: "Cry"- Kelly Clarkson

2009-08-31T17:55:00.007-04:00

In March 2009, Kelly Clarkson returned to her pop-rock sound with All I Ever Wanted. The first ballad that appears on the album is "Cry". The song is according to Kelly, "very much influenced by country -- it's a waltz." She calls it the most personal song on the album and says it's about betrayal. Kelly co-wrote the song with two other writers and OneRepublic's Ryan Tedder provides backup vocals.

The thing about this song is that Kelly has claimed that she has never been in love. So how can some one write about such betrayal in a relationship if she's never felt so passionately about a person? The question is answered clearly in a single listening of this song. Not only in the lyrics or even in the sappy music, but in Kelly's vocals. When she hits those notes you can feel the pain in her voice. Along with her cover of Keri Noble's "If No One Will Listen" this is probably her best ballad.

Picture credit: Wikipedia
Source: Popeater.com

A Rhyme: "Stay"- Sugarland

2009-08-31T17:00:00.007-04:00

Sugarland's (fourth) single, "Stay", from their 2007 album Enjoy the Ride is a ballad. It's about a mistress who wants the man who is cheating with her to stay with her instead of going back to his wife. The song was inspired by Reba McEntire's song "Whoever's in New England". That song is about a Southern woman who fears her husband is having an affair while he's in New England on business; she vows to still be there for her husband when he gets back despite her thoughts.

"Stay" had a unique premise for a country song, or any song for that manner. A song about cheating would usually follow the woman being cheated on rather than the woman with. The song is very simple in arrangement, with only Jennifer Nettles on vocals and (Sugarland's other member, Kristian Bush usually provides harmonies) an organ and acoustic guitar creating the music. The main focus here are the vocals and most importantly the lyrics.

Image credit: GACtv.com

A Rhyme: "Just Like a Pill"- Pink

2009-08-29T09:44:00.020-04:00

The single "Just Like a Pill" by Pink was released in June 2002 off Pink's sophomore album Missundaztood. The album itself marked a departure from Pink's sound on her previous record, which had more of an R&B sound. Missundaztood still had R&B elements but the music was more rock tinged, like "Just Like a Pill". The song is about getting out of a painful relationship told in a metaphor about drug abuse. It was written by Pink and Dallas Austin.

This is my favortie Pink song...EVER! This song made me buy the album back when I was in 5th grade. Pink sings the song like she means it; and she does--in an interview, she said that the song shows "part of who I am" refering to her problems with drugs. The song is very clever and there are many songs out there that deal with hurtful relationships, but this is the only song that I've heard that relates it to such a dark subject. It's very true--staying in a bad relationship will make you ill, instead of making you better, just like a pill.

Picture credit: Wikipedia
Source: musicOMH

A Riff About Me (and the Blog)

2009-08-28T16:47:00.010-04:00

Welcome to Rhymes and Riffs! This a a brand-new blog where I, Kier, will make a post about a song (new or old) that has meaning to me. I'll be giving you some info on the song and tell you my thoughts and feelings on them. The songs I plan on exploring will span different types of genres.

Now, allow me to introduce myself. I am a girl of 16 (going on 17) who loves music of all kinds and thoroughly enjoys exploring my creativity. Through this blog, I hope that you, the readers, get a sense of who I am and what I am about through the music I like and my opinions about the music and lyrics of the songs. Enjoy the blog! And be sure to leave comments about the songs I post and tell me what songs you think I should post (be sure they have lyrical meaning!)