Vic Mensa is a 22-year-old American Hip Hop recording artist from Chicago, IIIinois. He was a former member of the group formed in the year 2009 called Kids These Days, who released his INNANETAPE mix tape in 2013. In the first month the tape was downloaded over 35.00 times after it’s released. Vic is also the founder of SAVEMONEY, a hip-hop collective with Chance the Rapper. “Down On My Luck” is his first debut single and was released last June 2014 that achieved success internationally.
Vic is the latest signee of Roc Nation, and was under the mentorship of the famous Hip Hop Icon, Kanye West. They have worked on two very good singles together. The first one which is an ephemeral single called “Wolves” also featuring Sia gained popularity and debuted it in SNL’s 40th birthday, but he got arguably the biggest break of his career with their second single, where Kanye produced and rapped on his latest track “U Mad” back in March. This is also the first single on his upcoming album called Traffic.
On 08th of June, Vic Mensa and Kanye West released the Music Video for “U Mad”. The video was directed by the great Grant Singer. In the video the two Hip Hop artists were aggressive and showing off their rap game with a bunch of red evocative lights dancing, sparks, off and on. Also in the video Mensa was strapped into a straightjacket, and some riot police showed up and at the end to shut things down in a violent fashion – it’s was dark but strikingly beautiful.
Mr. West was rocking in a Donda sweatshirt and Vic going shirtless and wearing a see-through shirt.
Keith Urban was born in New Zealand but was raised in Australia. Before he became a country singer, he was part of the band “The Ranch”. He is the voice of the number 1 billboard hit on February 2001“But for the grace of God”.
He became CMA Male Vocalist of the Year in 2004, Entertainer of the Year in 2005, Horizon Award in 2001 at the Country Music Association awards and became the first artist to win Male Vocal Artist of the Year in 2004 and 2005.
He is married to Moulin Rouge actress Nicole Kidman and blessed with two children. The couple made their wedding on June 2006 special not only for them but also to others. They asked their 230 wedding guests not to buy any presents but instead ask them to donate the money to a Humanitarian Organization.
This singer song-writer is definitely multi-talented because aside from singing he can also play different musical instruments. Aside from what we all know that he plays guitar, he also plays drums, keyboard, ganjo, sitar and piano.
American Idol judge Keith Urban released his new single which is to pay tribute to “John Cougar, John Deere, John 3:16”. This is the first single heard from his upcoming still untitled album following his 2013 album “Fuse”.
This song “John Cougar” is a combination of modern pop and country. In fact, his upcoming album showcases genre-jumping songs which will surely hit. The country superstar did not just use guitar for most of the songs. Songs are actually backed by dj scratches, active base line and drum loops.
“John Cougar” made its unofficial debut last February at the 2015 Country Radio Seminar where Keith Urban played a seated version during the private luncheon. The song is written by Shane McAnally, Ross Copperman and Josh Osborne. How they come up with the title? Well, Urban insisted the title which was from the chorus “I learned everything I ever needed to know from John Cougar, John Deere and John 3:16”.
Fans, wait no more as our beloved and well missed Lizzie McGuire glides a comeback to the mainstream media with her newest album Breathe In. Breathe Out.
The said album was supposed to be released late 2014 but was pushed back to mid-June of this year. We know she’s no newbie when it comes to record industry as she had the released her debut album Metamorphosis that even notched triple platinum back in 2003. This is the fifth studio album from the former teen star.
Duff, now twenty seven has returned to the music scene after she decided to place her career at park in 2012 to give way on family life after giving birth to his now three year old son Lucca fathered by hockey player Mike Comrie.
Hillary claimed that this upbeat album spells no hatin’ despite the fact that she’s been through a hard point in her life after deciding to file an annulment early this year.
“The album is a range of stuff — I would say definitely in the beginning when I started writing, it was pretty heavy, coming out of my past year of — life. It’s changed since then, which is good because I think that the overall theme too — me, personally, I’m not this super heavy girl. You know? I’m one for the sunshine, so it’s shifted a lot and it feels a lot better to me.” – says she during MTV interview back in April.
Singles like ‘Chasing the Sun’ that debuted #79 on billboard top 100 and ‘All about You’ have been heard on the airwaves long before the release of the album.
Aside from singing, she also came back to acting where she was known first. Hillary stars TV series ‘Younger’ that was first aired last March.
With her attempt to retrieve her place to the limelight, we are just crossing our fingers things will turn out just as dandy for this former Disney star.
More than music, this band’s connection with each other is more in depth since it has something to do with bloodline. Composed of three siblings sharing one stage, the band joined forces and ushered road shows, concerts and music awards making them one of the distinct groups who has ever graced the industry.
The band is composed by Kimberly of lead vocals, guitar and piano, Reid of bass guitar and Neil on drums. What sets the band apart from its other contemporaries is the distinct sound they have that borders between country, pop and rock. At first, it was only Kimberly who was a part of the band while his two younger brothers Reid and Neil served as their roadies.
Afterwards, the two boys started doing opening acts to Kimberly’s band. The quadruple platinum trio was then formed in 2005 when they were able to secure a spot and be included on New Faces of Country Music. This gave them the exposure they need as they later on met Bob Doyle that helped them do studio recordings.
Their demo tapes attracted the attention of Scott Borchetta and Jimmy Harnen of Republic Nashville. After signing up in 2009, the band released their first single ‘Hip To My Heart.’
Their debut album was released in 2010 and became one of the biggest hits of the said year hitting the record of selling over 50,000 copies. All hail to their single ‘If I Die Young,’ that paved way to the success to their first attempt to do mainstream. The said song topped the country chart for weeks.
The band even bagged awards from The Academy of Country Music, The Country Music Association, CMT Music Awards and American Country Awards. Nominations include The American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards and Grammy Awards for Vocal Group of the Year.
June 8 – Here comes the big announcement finally. Apple and Beats brainchild that will challenge music streaming giants like Spotify, Tidal and Pandora. It is remembered that Apple has bought Beats for $3 billion last year and since then, the project about penetrating the streaming trade has been on the works. Declared to be available on June 30th, this pay per subscription app is much anticipated due to the fact that the project is being brought together by the union of two stand alone brands known for setting foot creative, out of the box innovation.
Apple Music, as what the streaming site is called has created buzz, speculations and rumors for several weeks before the formal notification has been unveiled by Apple execs in WWDC 2015 at San Francisco. Called to be an all in one platform, Apple Music is a streaming site plus radio station combined into one.
The radio station named Beats will be heard live primarily in New York, Los Angeles and London and is going to be emceed by ex BBC Radio 1 presenter Zane Lowe and other DJs like Julie Adenuga, Ebro Darden together with some music entertainment sign ups like Drake and Trent Reznor.
Another unique feature of this new work from Apple is the ability of users to connect with the artists through other social sites like of Facebook and Twitter to get instant access on videos and behind the scene footages of their favorite musicians – whoa! Oh dear, Apple must’ve stepped up the game.
Will this be something stellar? Let us see.
Like of other streaming pioneers, Apple Music would ask music fans to shell out in order to get the taste of unlimited listening. It is said that the subscription will be $9.99 a month but of with three months free trial for first time users.
Will Apple Music be the ultimate game changer? We’ve yet to tell.
Tim Bergling or as we all know as Avicii, the famous Swedish producer and DJ, is back on track again after a few overdue new single releases owing to the fact of unfortunate health issues the DJ suffered just before 2014 ends. His new single, “Waiting for Love,” could have been created specifically to shine a ray of hope to whoever listens.
“Waiting for Love” was also co-produced by the 19 year-Old Dutch DJ Martin Garrix, who was together with Avicii at the premiere of the track last March at Ultra Music Festival 2015. The single was officially released for digital download last 22nd of May and the accompanying videos following at the same month. There was confusion on the vocals, however. At first it was believed John Legend was the one who lent the vocals; but after a few more speculations, it was confirmed Simon Aldred, the founding member of a British indie rock band Cherry Ghost, was responsible for the voice in the electronic song.
The track opens up to an upbeat melody heavy lined with a beguiling play of piano, and then the refreshing vocals of Simon Aldred was introduced not a few seconds later. There’s a clear rapture riding throughout the melody; one that effectively communicates a hopeful track, as one can perceive all throughout the lyrics.
“We are one of a kind irreplaceable/ How did I get so blind and so cynical/ If there’s love in this life we’re unstoppable/ No we can’t be defeated.”
It was further enhanced by the animated video dedicated for the song. The team hired animators to tell a story between a man and his best friend dog. Drawn against a backdrop of changing hues, the dog set out on an adventure looking for his master, who was sent out in a war as a service to his country. Braving dangerous terrains, unfamiliar paths, and almost giving up, they finally got reunited at the end – it can definitely bring a smile into your face.
Another video was released for the song as well, where you can have 360 degree perspective by toggling the screen.
The track was his third single from his album Stories that will be released this fall, and one to watch out for if you got enraptured by the song. And it’s no surprise if you will. It’s a beautiful track – destined to propel the festive feeling of summer at greater heights or just provide warmth and vigor to a quiet humming of the song by the fireplace during the cold seasons. It’s your pick.
The singer slash songwriter was told to have reminded the public of the Canadian artist Justin Bieber mainly due to their baby face and to the manner of how they were discovered. But now the artist is cutting off any strings tying him to the notion of being a Justin Bieber comparison as he dig a name of its own that will be known as just “Conor Maynard” and not the “Conor Maynard: The British Counterpart of Bieber.”
He first laid the foundations of his career with his debut single “Can’t Say No,” and then cemented it with the success of his album, Contrast. Now his on the third track of his yet-to-be named sophomore album. And if this single was anything to go by, then he’d need no money to “take over the country” to quote the song.
“No two songs on the album sound the same. I didn’t want to stick to one style. I love the way Rihanna makes albums – club bangers beside reggae songs, next to soft, sweet ballads and maybe a track with acoustic guitar. I’m someone who dances to Drake in a club, then plays John Mayer in the car. I want to express all of my tastes in my own music,” Conor said as he talks about his upcoming album.
And indeed it is true. “Royalty,” the third track, is on the opposite side of the field compared to “Talking About,” the second single. Working yet again with Labrinth after their previous team up in the hit “R U Crazy,” Conor is set to make another smash. The artist went jazz in the single, a style he had thought he’d never attempt, and then faultlessly weaves it with the trumpets and that glossy “tap tap” of the piano. The final product is amazing; a touch of retro backed by his R&B roots to present a modern pop that is different from the rest.
The music video is another charmer, polished in boots and a suit, Conor Maynard embarks in a late-night performance surrounded by beautiful women and rich men. It’s slick, it’s beautiful, and it would be hard not to snap your fingers in tune with Maynard as he sings. “If I had the money, let me tell you how it’d be, / I’d take over the country, everyone would bow to me.”
After you hear this song, you’d declare it essential for your playlist (note: not just summer playlist), because there’s nothing more satisfying than hearing it on a loop; or better yet, groovin’ to its rhythm on a fun, fun night. *Wink Wink*
A track out of his album True Colors, “I Want You to Know” was able to claim the top of iTunes dance category just an hour after it has been released last 23rd of February.
The party-anthem is a recollection of “Break Free,” an Ariana Grande-and-Zedd collaboration released before “I Want You To Know.” It was quieter, however, and lacks the instant punch “Break Free” packs starting from the start. But the track revives itself after fifty-five seconds of building up the tension for the perfect time of letting loose, so to speak.
The track was also interspersed with Zedd’s signature styles. Every transition was hinted with that high note “tap tap” beat and a crescendo of drums building up for the final chorus and then finally crashing down, while there are intervals present in the track to which there are no lyrics but just instruments fitting an EDM song. It was catchy, upbeat, and sure will be on your playlist for awhile. But to be frank, it doesn’t quite measure to the amazing “Clarity” where it was one of the finest forms of music Zedd was able to produce.
Onto the vocals, “I Want You to Know” features Selena Gomez. While she may not have the pipe to stand toe-to-toe with artists with powerhouse vocals, she made it up with her charm. But to be fair, Selena Gomez is still an amazing singer; playing off with her strengths and making the most of her weakness without forcing herself to accommodate the demands. She sang the track brimming with energy and enough drama to “finally hit her mark,” as what Jason Lipshutz of Billboard said.
The lyrics of the song and the added rumors of Zedd and Selena dating during that time added to the hype. Selena telling about their chemistry (which is likely to be Zedd) is the lyrics put into a nutshell.
“I want you to know that it’s our time/ You and me bleed the same light/ I want you to know that I’m all yours/ You and me we’re the same force/ I want you to know that it’s our time/ You and me bleed the same light/ I want you to know that I’m all yours/ You and me run the same course”.
The lyrics were written by Zedd and Selena and with the assistance from One Republic frontman Ryan Tedder and New Jersey producer, artist, and DJ KDrew.
The music video was released March 10 on Vevo and was inspired from 70s disco setting. It was complete with strobe lights, sequined dresses, and Selena in a deep V cut dress and another in a backless fancy one. The music video looks like a simple affair with Selena dancing on the dance floor with mirage of Zedd appearing and disappearing in the scene, reflecting about Selena’s thought revolving around him throughout the track. The kaleidoscopic effect adds a psychedelic touch for a more tasteful music video.
While it was already released more than three months ago, it isn’t done rolling. Just recently released in United Kingdom, the track is bound to be heard on many occasions especially now that summer is on us.
With that all said, the track is a successful team up between Zedd and Selena. Not only the chemistry is in the lyrics, but on the two as well, as Selena played with the vocals lacing smoothly with the rhythm. It received also an over-all chart success, hitting number one in Billboard Hot Dance/ Electronic Song while making an appearance too in different international charts.
“I really subscribe to this mindset of just having fun. That’s what it’s always about. It’s the train that I’m forever on. The way I feel is if I’m enjoying it, it’s really worth doing.” – Uncle Kracker,
Matthew Shafer by birth, Uncle Kracker became known to the listening public during the year of 2001 because of his double platinum hit song ‘Follow Me.’ Originally seen DJ-ing for good comrade Kid Rock, he then went solo after the release of his debut album Double Wide.
The history of Uncle Kracker and Kid Rock’s good friendship rooted back in 1987. Brothers from different mothers, the two essentially considered one another as family as they helped each other during the course of each other’s career. Uncle Kracker contributed to Kid Rock’s 1996 album Early Mornin’ Stoned Pimp, even featured as vocalist on some of his tracks. He even co-created lyrics for the latter’s multi-platinum album Devil without a Cause.
It was Kid Rock’s time to return the favor when he produced Uncle Kracker’s debut album together with Mike Bradford. The said album was a mixture of rap, country and modern rock genre. The first single from the album ‘Follow Me’ climbed number one on Australia’s ARIA hit chart and topped number five on the US Billboard Hot 100.
The reach of this breezy feel good vibe went worldwide as it managed to enter even the UK, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Sweden, Austria and Switzerland charts. The following year, sophomore album came in the name of ‘No Stanger To Shame’ with his rendition of the song ‘Drift Away’ that again successfully trailed the charts.
Recently, Uncle Kracker hopped in to a road expedition called Under The Sun Tour together with other bands like of Sugar Ray, Smash Mouth and Blues Traveler.
You’re not even halfway through in this song and you already know what it is that you want. And I bet we all want the same thing – pun totally intended – for this single to be on our summer playlist.
Four-piece pop band Rixton hailing from Manchester, England just recently released their single “We All Want the Same Thing” a few days ago in UK from their debut album Let The Road, which first rolled out in Canada and United States last 3rd of March 2015. It has been receiving positive reviews since its debut and follow-up releases ensued in Australia, Netherlands and Germany last May 1st, France and Belgium last May 4th, June 5th on Ireland, and June 8th on United Kingdom.
Composed of Jake Roche as the lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Charley Bagnall in lead guitar and backing vocals, Danny Wilkin in bass, keyboards and backing vocals as well and Lewi Morgan in percussion, the guys deliver their new single just in time for summer. The fast snaps of percussion makes up for an upbeat tempo perfect some summer good time. Jake’s effortless falsetto is one of the defining characteristic of the single that blends well with the track and successfully added a bonus of summery feeling without the dominating the whole thing.
The music video features an eighties disco setting to which the boys showed some signature dance moves during that time. Frankly, the whole thing is filled with goofy clips it is very enjoyable to watch.
“We All Want The Same Thing” just screams fun, fun, FUN! They manage to pull-off a simplistic track with distinct quality that can instantly hook the listeners. This pop melody won’t fail to make you smile and entice you to sing along even though you know your falsetto’s a little bit hard on the ears.
When people are already hitting the waves and the aroma of BBQ is already tickling your sense of smell, what we usually do is look for the perfect track to go with beach side parties and some pool side chilling. To get that all fixed up, here’s Marlon Roudette with his single “When the Beats Drop Out” to deliver us a song that will get our blood pumping.
Released at the 18th of July 2014 in Germany, it is Roudette’s lead single from his second studio album, Electric Soul, which hit it big across Europe. Following its success, it further spreads its wings also releasing the single in United States and Canada at the 4th of December 2014, in Ireland at the 27th of February this year, and the latest on the 1st of March in United Kingdom.
A little bit old compared to the sprouting new single competing for the Ultimate Summer Jam title, “When the Beats Drop Out” is expectedly no near being crossed out on the list of contenders.
The British slash Vincentian artist certainly knows what he’s doing when he recorded the song. An alluring summer anthem, this one’s gotta make it to your playlist.
What you will love about this song is its chill, relaxing and summer and sunshine melody while still retaining its hip and jazzy tempo enticing you to ditch the sofa and show the moves on the dancefloor. What further added to the allure of the song is Roudette’s gliding, expressive vocals that don’t fail to subtly pluck those delicate chords of your heart. Couple it up with the single’s light yet deep and reflective lyrics, the song packs a punch you’d have a hard time shaking off.
“Baseline, I will always make time/ I just wanna know that feelings in your heart for me/ Baseline, after all the great times/ I just wanna know that feelings in your heart…” Listening to the song is a different kind of high where it isn’t about erraticism of letting loose, but of slow movements and shallow breath instead. What would be truly disappointing about this song is if you haven’t had the chance to hear it.
Governors Ball is an annual festival in the United States and held in New York City. It started in 2011 and produced by and independent festival promotion company called the Founders Entertainment.
This festival brings a diverse mix of artist from super popular and upcoming artists with different music genres and styles Including country, pop, indie, hip hop, rock and more.
And for this year it’s a wrap for the Governors Ball Music Festival. Last June 7 is the last day for the GovBall. The Festival ran for 3 days in Randall’s Island in New York City. There was plenty of mud, marijuana, and music. Weathering with a light rain and sound issues, veterans and newcomers from the world of dance, rock, pop, and hip hop was turned into sets that made everyone feel lucky to be there.
Governors Ball has 60-plus acts performing, and featured acts are Drake, Lana Del Rey, Rae Sremmurd, Florence and the Machine, Charlie XCX, Flume, Clean Bandit, My Morning Jacket, Marina and the Diamonds, Florence + The Machine, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying, Holy Child, Black Keys, Ryan Adams, The Decemberists, Bjork, and Chromeo.
The memorable and best performances this year was made by Rae Sremmurd, Chrome’s disco tinged set, Girl Power set of Charlie XCX and Florence and the Machine on the first day. Marina and the Diamonds, Kieza, and Clean Bandit made satisfying performances for the second day. The Black Keys and Lana Del Rey made the crowd go gaga on the last day.
Jordan Wolowitz the founder of Governors Ball said that this year has the biggest ticket sales, and also says “Each year it gets better. We’re a young company with a young team behind us, we are very proud of all the work the whole staff did at the festival, and very proud to have delivered our home town of New York its first successful contemporary festival.”
Charlie Puth is a pop singer and a song writer from New Jersey who is just starting in the music industry. Just like the famous Justin Bieber, He belongs on the long list of young music artist who started on YouTube by posting original songs, and covers on his Channel, Charlie Vlogs that become big hits. He started his YouTube Channel on September 2009, and now he currently has over 4 million views and half a million subscribers.
The 23-years-old Charlie started his path to stardom when he was invited to Ellen DeGeneres and Emily Luther show to perform his cover of Adele’s “Someone like You.” Ever since his guesting on these shows Charlie gained fame and started soaring in the music industry.
Today, Charlie is gaining more recognition because he was featured on the No.1 song on Billboard’s top hits. Together with Taylor Gang rapper, Wiz Khalifa he sings “See You Again” on the soundtrack of Fast and Furious 7 which is a tribute to the actor, Paul Walker. The single with Charlie’s soaring falsetto became a huge hit and success not just in the United Stated but also internationally that dethroned Bruno Mars and Mark Ransom’s “Uptown Funk” that had been No. 1 for 14 consecutive weeks, and was heading a record for being No. 1 longer than any song of the decade.
Charlie’s famous debut single “Marvin Gaye” with The Retro Princess, Meghan Trainor was released last February and made the number one spot this week in The Shazam Drum’s Chart.
Before fame Charlie attended Berklee College of Music with full scholarship. He also gained popularity with his covers by top artists like Lady Antebellum, Sia, Demi Lovato, and Bruno Mars. He co-wrote “Slow Motion” for Trey Songz, and now he was signed to Atlantic Records, and rest assured that everybody will be hearing much more from Charlie.
We already love Ed Sheeran for his personality and amazing music, and what he did on Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight Show last June 4, well, let’s just say Ed singing “And I get high with my baby/ I just left the mall, I’m gettin’ fly with my baby, yeaaahhh” is one of the pleasing things you’ll witness coming from the lad. Yes, if you haven’t caught on yet, he covered Fetty Wap’s “Trap Queen” assisted by The Roots. And it’s amazing.
“Trap Queen” is a major anthem not just for summer, but also for all those hip hop slash rap lover out there. It surged the charts after its re-released last December 2014 and ruled it over since then. It’s probably no surprise. When the public heard this song, it’s hard not to get hook. You will love the infectious melody from Wap’s gritty vocals to trap music elements weaved into traditional rapping style. It’s new while still keeping grounded to the conventional – and we love those things.
What people also love is hearing their favorite song being covered by another favorite artist. We all know about Ed Sheeran’s fascination to rap music. He adores them and the feeling is certainly mutual. The red-haired British favorite sang “Trap Queen” and it’s nothing short of amazing. (I’ll keep on repeating that adjective to prove the point.) The song still possesses the old charm – catchy beat, infectious melody, grand hooks and the likes. But Ed Sheeran added his signature style. Toning down the chirpy tone for a more docile track, it increases the depth of the song.
This single was first released in the early months last year but did not get much recognition then. Fetty Wap’s appearances and collaborations with the music industry’s more recognized name’s such as Kanye and Fall Out Boy helped the popularity of the song.
Now the hip hop star is doing well by himself and gaining more and more popularity. And with an extra boost from Ed Sheeran, Wap is introduced more into the public. It’s a win-win from both sides. We got to love Ed more and got to know Wap better. What could possibly top this is * cross fingers * a collaboration between the two. Now that would be amazing! (Note my adjective.)
The Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter Chris Brown announced “One Hell of a Nite” tour and he is bringing his talents yet once again on the road with Fetty Wap, Kid Ind, Omarion and Teyana Taylor.
Produced by Live Nation and Haymon Events, the “One Hell of a Nite Tour” will start kicking on August 12 at Sprint Center in Kansas City, Mo. The tour will trek through 25 cities in the U.S. including shows in Chicago, Boston, Miami, Dallas, Detroit, Atlanta and San Diego, before wrapping up in Concord, California on September 19.
Brown’s last tour was with Tyga and Trey Songz on the “Between the Sheets Tour” earlier this year.
Here is the Full list of the “One Hell of a Nite” tour dates:
Aug. 12 – Kansas City, MO – Sprint Center Aug. 13 – St. Louis, MO – Scottrade Center Aug. 14 – Chicago, IL – First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre Aug. 15 – Indianapolis, IN – Klipsch Music Center Aug. 16 – Detroit, MI – DTE Energy Music Theatre Aug. 18 – Cleveland, OH – Blossom Music Center Aug. 19 – Darien Lake, NY – Darien Lake Performing Arts Center (on sale June 13) Aug. 21 – Camden, NJ – Susquehanna Bank Center (on sale June 19) Aug. 22 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live Aug. 23 – Bridgeport, CT – Webster Bank Arena* (on sale June 19) Aug. 26 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center (on sale June 13) Aug. 28 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Saratoga Performing Arts Center (on sale June 13) Aug. 29 – Boston, MA – Xfinity Center Aug. 30 – Wantagh, NY – Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre (on sale June 13) Sept. 1 – Birmingham, AL – Oak Mountain Amphitheatre Sept. 3 – Miami, FL – American Airlines Arena Sept. 4 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre Sept. 5 – Atlanta, GA – Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood Sept. 9 – Austin, TX – Austin360 Amphitheater Sept. 10 – Dallas, TX – Gexa Energy Pavilion Sept. 12 – Albuquerque, NM – Isleta Amphitheater Sept. 15 – Phoenix, AZ – US Airways Center Sept. 17 – San Diego, CA – Sleep Train Amphitheatre Sept. 18 – Anaheim, CA – Honda Center Sept. 19 – Concord, CA – Concord Pavilion* (on sale June 19)
Switchfoot a band of surfers. According to Jon Foreman one of the vocalists of this Grammy award winning band. They first became mainstream when four of their songs were chosen to be soundtracks in the film “A walk to remember” featuring Mandy Moore who also did a cover of this song which top hit charts dated 2003.
The name Switchfoot according to Jon Foreman was derived from these facts about them, that their love for surfing actually gave their band name some sense and that is because they have been surfing for almost their entire life, so for them switching your foot to switch your feet (in surfing) also means to take a new stance facing the opposite direction, and that everything should always be about change and movement, and that approaches to music and especially in life should be different, and eventually that is what happened to this young group of surfers from San Diego, California who turned into renowned vocal artists all- over the world.
The band’s members are Jon Foreman the lead vocalist who also plays the guitar, Jerome Fontamillas also on guitar, keyboards, and at the same time a back-up vocalist, next is Tim Foreman on bass guitar and also doing back-up vocals, Drew Shirley who plays the guitar and also a back-up vocalist and last but definitely not the least Chad Butler who is on drums and percussion. After early successes in the Christian rock scene, Switchfoot first gained mainstream recognition with the inclusion of four of their songs in the 2002 movie A Walk to Remember.
After going mainstream their group suddenly gained fame and in recognition which headed them towards their major debut album also the same year, 2003 entitled “The Beautiful Letdown” which featured the hit singles “Dare you to move” and “Meant to live” and it sold millions of copies. And now their most recent album which is fading west gives their fans a glimpse to their song writings they created and produced a part documentary/ surf film/ travelogue in here they showed a bit of their more vulnerable more human side than being just the mere Switchfoot band that fans follow and grown up hearing on the radios and seen on the net they shared in this documentary how for such a long time of being in the band still their hearts are longing to still move home to their roots where their love for music sprouted.
Dixon’s roots can be traced from American Idol season 10 together with her sister Schyler yet both of them were cut off did not even reached top 24. Until season 11 came with the new power and uplifted confidence the Dixon’s returned again head high, the initial audition was done by her sister but later ended up requested to audition too by the judges Colton Dixon performed an original of David Cook entitled “permanent” and that golden ticket went on to change their lives.
Schyler’s painful cut off on the Las Vegas stage shook Colton’s perseverance to continue the journey, but still he was greatly encouraged by the family to just tick his faith into it and it did pay off when he sang Coldplay’s hit song “fix you” as his final solo on the final judgement until he ended up being on the top 25. Colton Dixon’s dream to perform on American Idol’s stage came to a reality.
Colton’s performance on the Idol stage was always an ace and for this reason many were shocked together with the judge famous rock and roll singer Steven Tyler on the April of 19, 2012 when he Dixon was eliminated, he lasted until Top 7 of that season. Colton Dixon’s sudden cutoff experience from American Idol created more fans and patrons, various producers gave acknowledge his talents and gave him opportunities to be known in Hollywood’s Music Industry.
GMA Dove Awards also gave him recognition when he won the “Best Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year in 2013 for his album “A Messenger” and so as K-love who nominated him as Male artist of the year that 2014.
His career skyrocketed but his feet remained grounded and until today Dixon is known as a contemporary solo artist who sang faith-based songs writing and now started writing and collaborating with Trevor McNevan, Matthew West, TobyMac, Ben Glover, Matt Bronleewe and also met with renowned artists such as David Garcia with TobyMac, Mandisa, Newsboys and Red Decibel for Switchfoot, Kelly Clarkson and Jeremy Camp.
Who would have known that Michael Colton Dixon from Murfreesboro, Tennessee would one day be known across the globe? Now Colton Dixon is with his latest album Anchor. He spilled on his official website his motivation for this new album he says that he would like to motivate his generation to always keep their torches lit.
He said after all the winnings and fame it became easy to be distracted and just drift on where he needed to be and that’s how he came up with the title “Anchor”. Dixon is now touring with this rock banner album scheduled June 6, 2015 on The Arena at Gwinnett Center at Duluth, GA up to Dec 13 on Nashville, Tennessee.
While we love Rita Ora and the collaborations that she did with Charlie XCX and Iggy Azalea, it isn’t still the same when it’s the British artist herself is pounding on the center stage. And when she announced the release of her brand new single after a year of no-shows and delays, brows are raised and eyes are rolled thinking it would be another one of those announcements that remains as just – well announcement. But apparently, this time it’s for real!
“It was really important for me to come back with the right song,” Rita said.
And heck did she do just that. Transforming from a girl hopeful in love in a pink jacket with shiny bling to hot supermodel in black and white latex whose rose-colored shades was abandoned, we can’t help but compare “Poison” to “I Will Never Let You Down.”
The lead single of her sophomore studio album “Poison” was released just recently last 18th of May and its accompanying music video on the 3rd day of June. The song is about a toxic relationship for a man she’s obsessed with. We’re not entirely sure if her feelings was reciprocated, but if the title and the lyrics – “I pick my poison and it’s you/ Nothing could kill me like you do” – are anything to go by, then you bet it’s a no.
From the light verses “Watch the sunlight, coming through/ Open the window, let it shine on you” of her last hit “I Will Never Let You Down” to something heavier – and definitely unhealthy – lyrics of “Poison”, “I could have beer for breakfast/ My sanity for lunch,” the recording artist certainly took a 180 degree turn. But who cares anyway? The vocals are much deeper, more mature, and still as amazing. The tune displays loud, dark mid-tempo that can blend in well with Sia’s other single.
After hearing this song, Rita could be possibly forgiven for the long wait.
After more than three years of waiting for another of Florence + The Machine album, we’re finally granted reprieve when they officially released their third studio album How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful. The album first rolled out in Germany last 29th of May followed by the release United Kingdom on the first day of June 2015.
“It was a really vulnerable time for me when we first started making the record and because of that it’s the most personal record I’ve ever made,” Florence Welch once said in an interview.
It is no wonder then on how the album turned out. It is the most expressive album yet that Florence + The Machine has ever made. The English artist explored her feelings much in depth in HBHBHB through her signature stunning vocals and theater-worthy production. There’s a right tension surrounding the album; one that further enhance the fragility of the records.
HBHBHB is also a range of melodies from Welch snarling “What Kind of a Man” burning a jagged place as one of the essential track in the album to the steady hum of “St. Jude” made more arresting by the allusions used.
Another notable track in the album is “Ship to Wreck,” a contrast of raucous guitar chords and Welch’s arcing and fragile vocals down to her soothing choral accentuated with a steady backbeat.
It’s another water metaphor too of hers that made it into the album despite the dictum of her producer Marcus Dravs that forbids her from writing any more water-related songs. (Just shows how much amazing this song is.)
The album is a series of climaxes and denouements reflecting Florence Welch growing personality – both spiritually and emotionally – triggered by the events making her spiral out of control and then rising back up. The well-defined imagery provides a clear picture of that thanks to her writing eloquence. Adhere it with daring musical arrangement and Welch unfailingly grand vocals, Florence + The Machine deserves to be this generation’s superstars.
How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful receives favorable critical reception with a weighted average of 76/100 in Metacritic based on 23 reviews.
Our one of the favorite bands is back on track again with the release of their new single “Roads.”
The British four-piece pop rock band, Lawson, is the one responsible of our old favorites “Die for You” and “Standing in The Dark,” who went on hiatus for two years in the blaze of glory of their successful album Chapman Square released on the 12th of October 2012.
Now they are back on the road again roughing up the path to fame-dom with their brand new track “Roads.”
It seems that Lawson had not only returned with a brand new single, but also has taken a new path as well. The four-piece band deviate from the path they are known as – pop rock singers – into a new genre storming the music industry today and that is indie-pop. They took a fresh turn in this single swapping the signature guitar riffs for a more acoustic sound, while still maintaining a bit of their old tune.
One can assume that the boys could have been aiming for some summer jam anthem with “Roads.” The track is complete with acoustic guitar embracing today’s favorite, and then cementing the summer feels with heavy lined drum beats. They even added some dose of hand-clapping and some chanting for good measure.
Andy’s vocals is still indeed impressive together with the other member’s performance that is no doubt will get you in your feet and sing-along, too – it’s a good song to add in your playlist for some road tripping. However, they could have given us more of some of their old tunes like the one in “Standing in the Dark” where their performance is just so raw you’ve got goose bumps.
You can now also view the music video of the song in their Vevo in YouTube. The digital format is now also available in iTunes so you can download it now, or grab a copy of the CD.
He is the voice behind Seven Days, Insomnia and Don’t Love You No More. Who can ever forget the captivating voice of an English singer that arrested the hearts of his listening public in trance of beguilement?
He may not have maintained the popularity he gained when he was first launched as an R&B sensation back in the year early but definitely, his collection of songs will remain one of those well-loved R&B tracks of all time.
Short Bio:
Ashley Craig David was born on May 5th 1981 in Southampton, England. His first work was with the R&B group named Damage and Artful Dodger. HE did collaboration on the single ‘What Ya Gonna Do.’ The song was embraced by the listening public and eventually became a hit.
2000 was Craig’s year because it became the platform as the launch of his career as a solo artist. Nineteen-year old at that time, Craig’s ‘Fill Me In’’ became a huge hit in the UK owning the top spot in no time. He was also the youngest solo performer to top the chart at the said time. His first album Born To Do It sailed way internationally as it managed to sell around eight million copies and earning platinum status in about twenty countries.
After his first album’s success, Craig then released his second in the year of 2002. The Slicker Than Your Average album carried the equally successful single ‘What’s Your Flava’ in the UK as well as the duet he did with Sting for the song ‘Rise and Fall.’ Though still able to maintain the hype his first album has made within the boundaries of his homeland, his second album barely did it to the US Billboard charts.
There goes 2005 and another album called ‘The Story Goes.’ This was released world-wide and was able to prove himself as chart worthy as it topped the hit lists once again.
After several world tours and stints, Craig tried different horizon as he hosted South African Idol. He also did hosting on exclusive parties some DJ sets in Miami.
Who would not know the much-admired singer- songwriter having that signature smile? From her hit debut album way back 1995 entitled Pieces of You, received Grammy Award nominations and sold millions of albums all throughout the globe.
Her songs also reached on the billboard’s Hot 100 songs such as “You Were Meant for Me” and “Foolish Games” she is none other than Jewel Kilcher known in the American Music realm as “The Jewel”.
It is a known saying that “Fine Jewels are such a rare find”, Jewel Kilcher has lived upon her name. She was born and raised in Payson, Utah, but later transferred in Homer, Alaska, at a young age, she knew how hard it is to live by in the Alaskan bounds.
Her family is featured on the Discovery Channel show “Alaska: The Last Frontier” which contained their family’s bond and struggles on their daily journey in that Icy boarders. Jewel’s fame was a lot of hard work, tough love as they say, she and her father Attila Kuno “Atz” Kilcher would play and sing in taverns and bars and that is how they earned a living, it may seem negative for others but it was also such a display of wonderful talents this family was gifted of.
Jewel then grew up working while singing, working as a barista and later gained some recognition as a singer. Jewel is known for her golden voice, a voice so rich that it almost as if has gone way over her actual age it matured over time making her a flexible artist.
It made her sing songs so prolifically in whatever genre may it be in pop, or country, or the classics which made her famous and the most unusual is that she could even sing operatic songs which is due to her music background from at the Interlochen Arts Academy in Interlochen, Michigan, where she majored in operatic voice and there she also learned to play guitar and influenced her baby steps in song writing.
Today Jewel is known to be a singer, composer, actress, TV host and now casts as one of the judges in the 4rth season of “The Sing Off” in NBC. She is truly one of the notable jewels in the industry of Music who doesn’t have to change her identity nor her teeth just to be in the zone one to be treasured for such a display of talent and hard work which now all paid off.
Home Free is the 3rd season grand champion in the most prestigious A Capella singing competition on NBC entitled “The Sing Off”. This group battled it out over many “aca-mazing” vocal groups had many show stopping performances encapsulated every single night on stage yet they emerged on top for their vocal quality and consistency.
Not all groups came in with a complete package unlike like this group Home Free, of five unique voice boxes, having full ranged tenor, extremely rich surround bass, endowed beat boxer, voice harmonies with ever amazing gifts in song arrangements and all together blended in one music masterpiece.
Home Free’s home is in Mankato, Minnesota their roots can be traced through the two brothers Chris and Adam Rupp but their group had a turn of upside down’s many already pursued careers in singing apart from Home free still they managed to re-master and import many other talents to join such as their bass vocalist Tim Faust, who later joined them full time another is their full ranged tenor Austin Brown whom the group has discovered later in the year of 2012, where Austin was working on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship as a featured singer in their production shows and Home Free as a guest performing group And there they ended up friends.
Austin got a spot in the group when their lead tenor already married and settled down and could no longer flow with them on their tours. Home Free’s remarkable talent was recognized by the judges of the sing off, but most especially Jewel, whom they’ve had the chance to sing with during the grand finals.
Home Free is now on tour for their “Crazy Life” album from Billings, Mt to Anaheim, Ca and is rushing to go over all America. They are such a talented singing group not only because of their unique vocal prose, but their natural charisma, especially their lead tenor Austin and the deep sexy singing voice of their Bass vocalist Tim who became so appealing to women which made them very ideal to produce.
But besides all of that, their maturity in the business due to their singing experiences and how they have made country singing a soulful experience to their listeners as if each song is a story to be told through those beautiful melodious lines all these lead them to their long awaited fame and success.
Tinie Tempah, the maker of the hit song “Pass Out” that got us grooving over the lyrics “Yeah, yeah, we bring the stars out/ We bring the women and the cars and the cards out/ Let’s have a toast, a celebration, get a glass out/ And we can do this until we pass out” has finally made a comeback since his last album Disc-overy in the year 2013. Featuring the soaring vocals of the new pop sensation Jess Glynne, the duo teamed up for some new summer anthem: “Not Letting Go.”
This brand-new single from Tinie Tempah is your new summer jam contender; but more than that, “Not Letting Go” is also your new summery love song. “So it’s an ode to a girl I met and our experiences in this amazing city we call home – London!’ as what Tinie Tempah said.
Packed with catchy tunes to get you bopping and flavored with heavy bass beats, Tinie Tempah confessed to the song about his amazing experience with this girl in his favorite city, London.
“Both (Jess Glynne) being Londoners, I wanted to make a song that captured that London summertime feeling which is always the best time of the year for me and the time where I’ve had my most romantic experience.”
And we couldn’t say he failed in that! Jess Glynne provided the stunning hooks curving smoothly over Tinie Tempah’s gliding rap verses.
The music video was recently released last 29th of May 2015 featuring the best of London summery, colorful vibe in the form of its street, local shops, parks, and basketball courts – the simple things it has to offer, yet one of the best there is. The single on the hand will be released on the 21st of June, but could be pre-ordered now. The track could also be seen in Jess Glynne’s album “I Cry When I Laugh,” which will be released on the 14th of August 2015.
Fifth Harmony has donned on the business suits and took over the reins in Wall Street in their music video of their brand new single “Worth It.”
American girl group Fifth Harmony brought out the sass back in their new single “Worth It” also featuring American Rapper Kid Ink. The single was the third track from the girl’s debut studio album Reflection.
The strong beats of snare drums and the added sound effect of whooshing serves as the backbone of the single. There’s a hard edge more prominent in this single than Fifth Harmony’s previous single “Sledgehammer,” bringing back our favorite sass and attitude signature of the famous girl band.
The melody of “Worth It” seems to be running on the same veins as Jason Derulo’s “Talk Dirty” with the start of the song delivering some funky melody brought about by the saxophone. The tune was also evident during the chorus, which is parallel again to Derulo’s “Talk Dirty”. However, this is where the similarities end.
The video may be sexy and the vocals breathy and strong, but apart from the heat sizzling from this song is Fifth Harmony adding another dose of self-love and female empowerment dominant in their album Reflection.
They are the embodiment of female-in-charge in this song who knows what her cost and would settle for nothing less so you better” Give it to me I’m worth it.” This was further established by the many repetitions of the chorus and on these lines: “Cuz I don’t wanna waste my time/ Uh huh you see me in the spotlight / Ooh I love your style/ Show me what you got/ Come and make it worth my while.”
The single first debuted at Billboard Hot 100 at 82nd and then disappearing and reentering again in 93rd place. It took a huge leap at 20th place after the release of the music video.
