Guess who Nicki Minaj wants to collaborate with?

It is none other than the British boy Band Heart Throbs, One Direction. The female rapper gushed over the X Factor foursome backstage at the BET Awards and said that she’s actually a big fan.

The hit British boy band is now consist of a four members after Zayn Malik left the group in March, and according to the news he is already busy working on new music.

And the other guys in the group are Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Liam Payne and Louis Tomlinson. They have caught the eye of rap sensation Nicki, who is keen to team up with them for some catchy songs in the future.

“I do want to work with One Direction. I mean, of course, who wouldn’t? They’re cute!” said Nicki in one of her recent interviews.

One Direction would most likely accept the offer as they are previously talking about Nicki’s work and music, as well as her famous “pert derriere” when they admitted they would not be able to beat her in a “twerk off” last year.

The ‘Super Bass’ rapper and singer is currently riding a success after winning at the BET Awards on Sunday night for the Best Female Hip-Hop Artist. She won the fan-voted viewer’s choice award, brought her mom onstage when she collected her sixth consecutive best female hip-hop artist award.

“Momma, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you’ve done for me. I love you so much,” said Minaj, who performed her with her rapper-boyfriend Meek Mill later in the show.

The 34 year old beauty is setting her visions high for the future and her career. She would love to perform at British festival Glastonbury, following in the footsteps of previous performances of Jay Z and Kanye West.

http://laurenceourac.com/guess-who-nicki-minaj-wants-to-collaborate-with/

Back from hiatus, Bieber in “Where are you now’’

Justin Bieber’s recent media exposure isn’t all well received with nods. We’ve seen him here and there with the media and paparazzi following his every move. After all, he is a superstar of his own. We have practically seen him grow up before our very eyes.

From the time he was discovered from YouTube till the time he made young girls from all over the world swoon over him, this Canadian heartthrob’s life has been followed ever since.

Materialized with the help of Skrilswlex and Diplo, Bieber’s latest video is a breath of fresh air from all the drama and controversies the pop star had been with recently. Seems like the 21 year old singer exposed a little of his vulnerable inner self with the lyrics of his newest release.

I gave you attention when nobody else was payin’ / I gave you the shirt off my back what you sayin’ / To keep you warm / I showed you the game everybody else was playin’, that’s for sure / And I was on my knees when nobody else was prayin’, oh lord /

The video itself is full of metaphors. The psychedelic visual motion was made with the help of a chunk of “beliebers” battalion. Shot in Seventh Letter Gallery in Los Angeles, selected fans were asked to draw and doodle over Justin’s still photos.

These were combined together to create an animation that’s shown in the music video. There were many messages that can be seen only if you have a fast eye. Of course, even after years, Bieber’s name is still linked with his ex’s name Selena Gomez.

One of the drawings has her name on it with the words written ‘Where Are You Now?” Of course, this was etched by one of the fans that participated in a sketch fest intended for the video but could this mean anything else? Released June 29 and currently on Billboard’s top 15 as of writing, do we expect another smashing hit from this young superstar? Let’s sit back and watch out.

http://laurenceourac.com/back-from-hiatus-bieber-in-where-are-you-now/

Tomorrowland 2015 and the promise of eargasm

Music festivals are here to stay for as long as it can. Being patronized and watched out by hundreds of thousands of music lovers whenever schedules are released, music festivals are avenues to lose oneself in strings of artists and acts and just be in that moment where music, friendship and liberty can be achieved all at the same time.

With the recently conducted Coachella 2015 and the on-going Glastonbury Music Festival, fans and fest goers are on the move in search for the next big thing in the outdoor music extravaganza.

With all the megalomania that’s being circulated in social media and the humongous names in the music industry participating, it is no wonder why all have been updated on where to go next. The list of festivals has now being scratched off and the latest apple of the eye is the upcoming Tomorrowland 2015.

Set to be held in the humble city of Chattahoochee in California, United States of America, Tommorowland 2015 is a yearly event which features act after act of music ingenuity and sheer talent of the biggest names in the industry. The three-day festival would start in September 25 and ends in September 27.

 Project director and brain Jamie Reilly is focusing this year’s peg which is dubbed as The Key to Happiness. According to Reilly, more stages or tiers are set to have better performances this year and so as to reach genres never played out last year.

It can be easily remembered that last year’s attendance amounted to 160,000 and the Tomorrowland 2015 team is committed in bringing pure entertainment for those who are planning to go. Diversity in music taste and a whole set of new names are expected to be seen on this year’s Fest.

On to the lineup, Tomorrowland initially released the following to jolt your music alter-ego and are set to perform on Phase I — Adam Beyer, Adventure Club, Afrojack, DJ Armin Van Buuren, Big Gigantic, famous mainstream artist David Guetta, Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike, Excision, Ferry Corsten, Flux Pavilion, Get Real, Hardwell, Martin Garrix, Paul Van Dyk, Showtek, Steve Angello and worldwide renowned DJ Tiesto.

Phase II acts and performances would be coming from Bassnectar, Benny Benassi, Bingo Players, Borgore, Bro Safari, The Chainsmokers, DVBBS, Gramatik, Guy Gerber, Kaskade, Laidback Luke, The Magician, Maya Jane Coles, Porter Robinson, Rudimental, Seven Lions and Thomas Jack.

Due to the fact that Tomorrowland 2015 is two months away, organizers are still on the move in finalizing additional artists to perform. Ticket-selling have been prolific and is admission is now being controlled to avoid overpopulation during the festival.

http://laurenceourac.com/tomorrowland-2015-and-the-promise-of-eargasm/

“Cool for the Summer” by Demi Lovato is Different

American singer slash songwriter slash actress who we first see in Barney and Friends has really grown into a curious adult. If I didn’t know she’s a former Disney child star, I would not suspect it. But that’s mostly the case with Disney stars, eh?

We have already established that she’s now a beautiful grown up woman crooning ballad or showing off her impressive vocals. But with this recent turn of events, Demi Lovato’s new track “Cool for the Summer” certainly has a shock value.

“Got my mind on your body
And your body on my mind
Got a taste for the cherry
I just need to take a bite”

The analogous term Demi Lovato used will not make you doubt its meaning. It could have been the same even if she said it straight forward – except that it would lose its artistic side and probably banned from some countries.

Still, the lines are enough to catch the attention of people listening across the globe, earning her controversies and issues; one that includes ripping off some artists’ music, namely Jessie J’s “Domino” and Katy Perry’s “I Kiss A Girl.”

Once you listen to the song, the start of the chorus, “Take me down into paradise,” would jump on you as reminiscent of Jessie J’s “Domino” specifically in the part where she sings “Rock my world into the sunlight …” but after that, it is a different game.

To be fair, with countless of music, it is hard to sound really unique. And Demi Lovato isn’t the only one having a problem in here. On the issue about Katy Perry’s “I Kiss A Girl,” it just happens that they both like cherries and apparently, many people have a problem with that.

But looking past those, the track is a strong stand by the pop star. The production lived up to its title, employing forceful synthesizers even at the quiet corners of the song.

The guitar riffs flourishes throughout and there’s a hint of EDM at the start. Although we didn’t hear her impressive vocals, it helps add a refreshing value on the song, forcing us to guess on what’s next.

“Cool for the Summer” is certainly different. You just have to choose which kind.

http://laurenceourac.com/cool-for-the-summer-by-demi-lovato-is-different/

Billboard hot 100 music festival on the works

Get ready music lovers and partygoers as Billboard announces the first ever Billboard Hot 100 Music Festival that is planned to take place on the weekends of August 22 and 23 at Jones Beach, New York.

With the tag line 30+ Artists, 3 main stages, 2 full days, expect an ultimate celebration of music, never ending singing and all out fun brought about by the world’s most applauded singers and performers. This must be an all-out treat for both musician and die-hard fans as both spheres will come together and collide to a total celebration of art and expression though rhythm and melodies.

 It is said that July 9th is the magic date because it is when Billboard will officially announce the complete list of artists who will participate in this Fest’s first year. This is produced with the partnership of LiveNation.

With this first-of-its-kind festival on the beach just outside New York City, Billboard is officially expanding its live event footprint,” said Billboard president John Amato. “The iconic Jones Beach will be fully transformed into a true festival experience with multiple stages and a festival village.””

Billboard has been one of the world’s most prominent if not the leading hit chart all throughout history. 

It started in 1950’s and since then became the eminent monitoring body that detects and scan`s leading singles and albums in the four corners of mainstream musiclandia.

It’s been the aim of the majority of musicians to have their names enters the billboard’s list because doing this means having a defined reach audience wise. This popular hit indicator has an influence that is no doubt distinguished as it made the popular even more known and promising stars set foot to the gates of stardom. Countdown and charts are being released on a weekly and monthly basis.

http://laurenceourac.com/billboard-hot-100-music-festival-on-the-works/

A$AP Rocky and Wiz Khalifa announce UK Tour

Live Nation is thrilled to announce that the two of hip-hop’s pride talents, Wiz Khalifa and A$AP Rocky are joining forces for an arena tour in the UK in October. It’s going to be a big deal because they are visiting five venues in the United Kingdom for this special tour.

The respective chiefs of A$AP Mob and Taylor Gang’s tour will start in Nottingham on Tuesday 13th October and will see the pair play Liverpool, Birmingham and London before ending up in Manchester on the Monday 19th.

With two number one albums on the Billboard charts and praises from the media and fans, A$AP Rocky has cemented a place as one of the most critically-acclaimed rappers in the game of the music industry especially in Hip Hop. A$AP Rocky second studio album is called “At. Long. Last. A$AP” it was released last month. And along with the success of his music, he was also recently named one of GQ Magazine’s 20 Most Stylish Men in the world.

Meanwhile Wiz Khalifa is currently surprising his fans across the US with the band, Fall Out Boy and Hoodie Allen on the Boyz of Zummer tour which is one of the most diverse names in the music industry. Khalifa also recently released the number 1 smash hit “See You Again” that is featured in the movie, Fast and the Furious 7 soundtrack. The song has been successful, globally and it also sets the record for most streams in a single week in 26 countries, including the UK and holds the record for the most-streamed track in a single day on Spotify in the United States.

Seeing two phenomenal artists on the one and same concert is very rare, so do not miss out this once in a lifetime opportunity to catch them live and rocking together.

Check out the venues below:

Tuesday 13th October – Nottingham Capital FM Arena
Wednesday 14th October – Liverpool Echo Arena
Friday 16th October – Birmingham Genting Arena
Saturday 17th October – The O2, London
Monday 19th October – Manchester Arena

http://laurenceourac.com/aap-rocky-and-wiz-khalifa-announce-uk-tour/

2NE1 – The new evolution in the 21st century

The 2NE1 all girls band got their name not because all of them are 21 years old, but because they want to pronounce a new vibe of music in the 21st century and even a new evolution in the K-popping industry and globally before their bands name is “Female Big Bang” and 21, but their signing company stopped using the name 21 because another group was using it as well more so to remove confusion to the listeners and fans.

2NE1 group is comprised of four talented beautiful South Korean girls who have a passion for singing, dancing and the Musical arts, these young ladies started as promotional singers for CYON’s cellular phone “Lollipop” in collaboration with the group Big Bang, yet this song became a thermostat for them because it marked and topped on the hit charts knowing that it is not an official single or tract release yet its popularity became so viral later on 2NE1 because of the high demand by the listeners and viewers they officially launched their group on May 6, 2009 with their hit digital single “Fire” later on it progressed and progressed as the demands from the media to hear more of their music they promoted their hit singles “I don’t care” and “Pretty boy” topping up their previous introductory song.

This group is considered as one of the renowned musical artists in the world because they give variations and adjustments in order to really make it 21st century singing their target listeners are not only the Koreans but to many parts of the world such because although most of the lyrics are in Korean still they infuse it with the universal language or the English language pone who could stand and pierce in the ears and hearts of the listeners worldwide, and with that consideration their goal to be a new evolution in the music industry has now been achieved and also 2NE1 group is also considered as very flexible artists because they all sing, and do their choreographs, they adjust from pop to, R&B to reggae and infusing raps going to hip-hop and now infusing electronic music. Which became one of their strongest shift proving their abilities more and more with their successful promotional single entitled “Go away”.

2NE1 entered the music industry with a soft, girly approach to their lyrics and shows and now has transformed promoting strong, feminine women. These group of four young women has influenced the world with their voices and undeniable artistic side and most importantly their unique, gorgeous looks and appeal further strengthened their gifts in singing.

http://laurenceourac.com/2ne1-the-new-evolution-in-the-21st-century/

The Most-Awaited Song of Beach House Released: Sparks

Waiting for the music of Beach House is synonymous and different at the same time to waiting for the next installment of our favorite book.

The waiting is hard and mostly the worst part is after you read the novel or hear the music, because you have a hangover over it and the next one would be a year away – except in the Beach House case, it would two or more years if we’re going to base them on records. But this year, we are in luck, as the duo finally bestows upon us clamoring mortals their music after three years of waiting.

Beach House is worldly known as pop duo consisting of French-born Victoria Legrand and Baltimore native Alex Scally; and like many other artists, they have grown into a different genre – indie rock.

Yet, despite of the shift in music inclination, the characteristic that we have come to love from them is still as distinct. And the lead single of Depression Cherry, their upcoming album to be released on August 28, proves their music is still as soulful as before; one which is well-oriented on how to “spark” our emotion, so to speak.

“Sparks” opens to Legrand frictionless, almost reverent vocals and then layered by a distorted guitar. 

It ripped through Legrand’s hymnal voice and takes center stage before it mellowed down into an ethereal sound, invoking rich emotions, which have been the signature of the duo.

The beginning melody of the song continues to play in the background. Adding deeper character to the music, it fades in and fades out while the distorted guitar riffs continue to be the backbone of the song.

In comparison to their previous singles, this one is different and the same. It has a polished identity of their beginnings, preserving the kind of heightened feelings their song invokes; while instilling a growth in their music through comprehensive sonic layers.

http://laurenceourac.com/the-most-awaited-song-of-beach-house-released-sparks/

Keep Your Summer Playlist Updated With These New Songs

Summer is a well-loved season. The holiday outings, joy rides, occasional barbecue gatherings, poolside chilling, and even the simple weekend jams – they are always a part of our summer experience. To complete the summer feels and make the experience more unforgettable, whether you’re with old time friends or new acquaintances, there’s no better way than to accompany it with new music you’d either love or have a good laugh about.

Here is the rounded up list spanning across different genres to satisfy your taste:

“Sparks” by Beach House

Here’s the first one to get you really excited. Beach House, our favorite band who first found their footing as the pop duo and then shifted to indie rock, finally released their song, “Sparks.” The track is the lead single of their upcoming album, Depression Cherry, which will be finally released after three years of wearing their previous album Bloom.

In this track, the duo proves that they have not lost their hold yet, and it will keep on getting firm. “Sparks” is slightly different from their previous singles, as the tension is more pronounced with chaotic loop of Victoria Legrand’s vocals in the beginning and continued until the end of the song as feedback. It was balanced, however, with the ethereal vocals sparking emotions in its wake.

“Dats All Me (D.A.M.)” by Fetty Wap

What we have come to know as the prince of trap music, Fetty Wap, comes back with his winning formula after a slew of collaborations. We can hear Fetty Wap singing to us yet again another ode for his lady a “so d*** fine” one at that. Though we can hear similar notes from his “Trap Queen,” it is still hard to not like it. With catchy beat and melodious soulful tenor, “Dats All Me (D.A.M)” is still captivating.

Cool For the Summer by Demi Lovato

When Demi dropped this track last June 30, an online war burst across the internet. Apparently, “Cool for the Summer” sounds like a ripped off from Katy Perry’s “I Kissed A Girl.” However, this one is one of the strongest songs of the artist with bold analogous lines that will not make you doubt its meaning.

“Good For You” by Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez has grown into maturity both in her music and her personality. Her track “Good For You” is a testament to that. Her confidence is oozing in this track as you can hear her intentions loud and clear on the lines while writhing on hardwood floors, or couch – whichever she looks best in.

Endearing, Refreshing, and a whole lot better – that basically sums up the track.

“Jump Off the Roof” by Vince Staples ft. Snoh Aalegra

The thing that will blow you off in this song is the staggering intensity you’ll feel while listening to Vince’s completely chaotic life. A failure in love, high on weed and coke, simply lonely and scared – “Jump off the Roof” is jaded, full of character and raw truths, which made it captivating.

http://laurenceourac.com/keep-your-summer-playlist-updated-with-these-new-songs/

Ed Sheeran Music Collaborations You May Not Be Aware of

Ed Sheeran is a pretty much diverse lad. We may know him as the guy who sings love songs and ballads that could have been specifically designed to tug at the sensitive chords of our heart. But more than that, the red-haired artist also dabbles on different genre. Mostly he goes a little bit of folk and a little bit of hip hop, but sometimes he goes full on rapping, too. So it would be no surprise if there are other projects he has a hand on that we are not aware of.

For sure we know all about his frequent collaborations with One Direction, writing their songs and playing with them. We are also aware of his colab with Taylor Swift on “Everything Has Changed.” So to give you something fresh, here are the music collaborations our favorite British singer/songwriter did. Some of them he was featured at some he only imbue his writing skills. (You may want them to add in your playlist!)

“Love Shine Down” by Olly Murs

Not familiar? Probably because he only takes a part on the writing process of the track. There are actually many of them who helped pen the song Olly Murs included. “Love Shine Down” is a part of the track listing of the English songwriter slash singer Olly Murs in his self-titled debut album called Olly Murs.

“Watchtower” by Devlin ft. Ed Sheeran

Watchtower was released on the 16th of August 2012 by British rapper Devlin in which it was later used in the 2013 comedy film 2 Guns. It was charted success placing at 7th as the highest on the UK Singles Chart. It became Devlin’s first top ten hit and Ed Sheeran’s fifth.

“Young Guns” by Lewi White ft. Devlin, Yasmin, Griminal and Devlin

The track was the debut single of Lewi White in which it features vocals from various artists including Ed Sheeran. We can see a shift in Sheeran’s image here as he goes full-on rapping on an intense music video. He looked fierce – as fierce as the adorable favorite red head can be.

“All About It” by Hoodie Allen ft. Ed Sheeran

Do you remember the music video in this song? They are wearing a superhero costume with fake abs. They look so awkward walking in it. The track was included in the debut album of the hip hop recording artist called People Keep Talkin released last year. Ed Sheeran also had a hand in the writing process.

“Be My Forever” Christina Perri ft. Ed Sheeran

This is another track you would love as much as you love the collaboration between Taylor Swift and Ed on “Everything Has Changed.”(Or even more.) It was included in Christina Perri’s Head or Heart album.

“Hotel Ceiling” by Rixton

Hotel Ceiling, ring a bell? It probably would, as it was just recently released at the start of the year. It was the third single from English pop band Rixton on their album Let the Road. The track on itself received positive reviews, but the music video is a different matter. With Ed Sheeran has a hand in the writing process; you wouldn’t expect it to be that creepy. Depressing is justifiable, but not creepy. Watch it so you could know what I mean.

http://laurenceourac.com/ed-sheeran-music-collaborations-you-may-not-be-aware-of/

Bidding goodbye to the heiress

Bobbi Kristina Brown is an American reality television and media personality, singer, and heiress. 

She is the daughter of singers Bobby Brown and Whitney Houston.

Brown’s childhood has been characterized by the media as difficult due to her parents’ drug problems, the presence of paparazzi, and domestic violence issues. She was brought into the spotlight at age two in 1994, when her mother accepted an American Music Award while holding her onstage, and Brown’s childhood remained public due to her parents’ fame. When Brown’s parents divorced, her mother was awarded custody, though her father still had visitation rights.

When her mother died on February 11, 2012, Brown was named as the beneficiary of Houston’s entire estate including clothing, jewelry, cars, personal effects, and furniture in accordance to her mother’s will.

Throughout her teenage and adult years, Bobbi has been the focus of tabloid and gossip column speculation, including stories about her purported drug use, her weight loss, and her relationships with family members.

Recently it has been reported that Bobbi Kristina Brown‘s condition has worsened and she is barely clinging to life.

“She barely has any signs of life, hardly any vitals,” according to a source. “Security has been beefed up and even local law enforcement have been called because the families have been told that death is now imminent and they want to make sure that photographers don’t get pictures of her body being removed.”

It was on January 31, 2015 when Bobbi Brown was found face down and unresponsive in a bathtub in her Atlanta area. Last week June, all her medications were taken off and she was then removed from the hospital. Bobbi Brown was moved to hospice care.

It was also reported that Bobbi was flown to Chicago on a medical plane with the help of Tyler Perry to see specialists. This idea was suggested by Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry to further check her condition.

According to Atlanta doctors, there was really no hope in saving Bobbi. And that was the time when she was taken off all the meds and any artificial means of support.

Her father, Bobby Brown said that he truly has done all he could to help her daughter. It seemed that he was waiting for some confirmation or signs before letting her go. The trip was what convinced him take all her meds off and letting her go the natural way.

Yesterday, on July 26, after months of being in a medically induced coma, Bobbi Kristina Brown, is now reportedly dead. Though family was somehow prepared for this day to come, it is still so heartbreaking for her family to see her go. They still had hope that the girl would recover from her coma. But then again, as what the family has been thinking when they decided to take off all the meds and artificial life support, their beloved Bobbi is gone now.

http://laurenceourac.com/bidding-goodbye-to-the-heiress/

Sam Smith + Disclosure Future Collab: Why We Should Watch Out For It

You can say that 2015 in music business is a pool of excitement, thrills and a lot more inducing feels that lead us from screaming damaging our vocals chords out of delight to pulling our hairs off due to frustrations. From starting brilliant artists to veterans in music, there’s a lot to look forward to. One of them, of course, is the collaborations of our favorite artists.

Have you seen the headline? Yep, it’s about Apple Music and the big launch, but scrolling down a little bit below is another source of pleasure. Apparently, the millions of fans wish of most-awaited collaboration between Disclosure and the Grammy Award winner Sam Smith is along the way! (Cue the screaming.)

Don’t hold back, you’re excused to fan-girl all you want, because when two renowned artists team up, we can expect it to be massive. Avid fans or not, most listeners know about their first and last joint force in music, which is “Latch.” It is the lead single of the American duo Disclosure album Settle. Composed of brothers Howard and Guy Lawrence, they further improved their career with this track after their first significant success with the release of their single “Tenderly/ Flow” last January 2012.

Although received with mix opinions, “Latch” also serves as Sam Smith’s stepping stone in paving a path of his own. The breakthrough of his music career starts after he was featured in this track. Lines of success followed after this including various nominations and winning awards.

Although the success of “Latch” is why we can’t help but hope for collaboration between this two, another can be considered. They were just both starting artist then (with Disclosure debuting ahead of Sam Smith), it’s only natural to look forward to their team-up now that their names are big on the industry. Will it be what we’re expecting of them, or we’re hoping for too much? No matter, we’ll hear later this year.

http://laurenceourac.com/sam-smith-disclosure-future-collab-why-we-should-watch-out-for-it/

Note-worthy moments of BET Awards

BET Awards was first inaugurated last June 2001 supporting different talents at different fields such as sports, music, and acting. Truly, it is an amazing night highlighting the success of African-Americans on the path they have chosen. It is a wonderful night of togetherness celebrating the people and their influence in the music industry. And last June 28 at the 15th annual BET Awards another milestone is achieved marking the lives of the participants of the events.

But more than announcing the winners, going on stage and claiming the trophy, are the in between moments stealing the limelight of the night. From heartwarming speech to show stopping performances, last Sunday night at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California is a barrage of scenes that will make you go “Aww” – either because of the inspiring messages or imaginary pain.

Kendrick Lamar

Hailing from Los Angeles is the prince of hip-hop Kendrick Lamar who knows how to start up the energy at the beginning of the ceremony with a fiery seriousness with his song “Alright.” But his achievement that night does not stop there.

“This is for Compton, this is for Watts,” the rapper said as he received the award of best male hip-hop artist.

Nicki Minaj

Female rapper Nicki Minaj knows how to affect her audiences. Winning sixth time in a row as the best female rap artist, her acceptance speech is nothing less note-worthy.

She brought her mother on stage, the first time the world’s ever going to see her, and delivered her thanks to her mom. It’s an “aww” moment.

Janet Jackson

One of the highlights of the night no one could argue about – it is a sweet moment for Janet Jackson.

“To my beautiful mother, to my beautiful father, and to my entire family, your love is unbreakable.” The pop star said to the audiences particularly to her mother and father who are watching her from stage.

Janet Jackson was awarded with the title of Ultimate Icon: Music Dance Visual Award and was paid tribute by Ciara, Jason Derulo, and Tinashe by mimicking her signature dance moves.

Diddy

Life outside music is rough for Diddy and some can conclude that it may have been rough, too on stage. Singing past medley hits and celebrating the 20th anniversary of Bad Boy Records, we see the no-worries Diddy – until he fell on a hole onstage.

It’s another “aww” moment only not on the same context; however, they say that the show must go on and Diddy won’t let a misstep (literally) from delivering an exciting performance.

Rihanna

Of course here’s Rihanna keeping the eyes on her again – only this time, not because of her outfit or her performance.

Carrying a duct tape during the night, Rihanna holds the attention making sure that everyone is listening on the big reveal. “B**** Better Have Money” first minute music video debuted that night and the full length is available this in less than a week.

http://laurenceourac.com/note-worthy-moments-of-bet-awards/

Turn it up with Kelly Clarkson’s heartbeat song

We first heard her belting high notes and showing exceptional singing prowess while competing on American Idol’s fist season. Her success even after the show marked the talent search’s capability of discovering talents and tuning them into a bankable stars.

Kelly’s breakthrough success that’s palpable on hit charts when her first single Á Moment Like This’ topped numbers of lists in and out of United States. While we can consider AI as the platform that opened doors of opportunity to this talented singer, let us not remove extraordinary talent and hard work from the equation – things are definitely reasons why Clarkson, after more than a decade after winning, is still being heard and continuously visible to the our very eyes.

We’ve seen Kelly transform from the belting diva to a songstress that embraces racy and upbeat songs. Most of her recent singles convey the message of inner strength and standing taller onto one’s own feet. The broken hearted population were able to step one more day with her songs Since You’ve Been Gone and Stronger on the background.

And today, Kelly has released another single entitled Heartbeat Song. Following the tradition of uplifting songs, gloomy days will be better as the words were accompanied by dancy rhythm that will surely raise one’s mood into positivity and good vibes.

Meaning wise, the song is more of your Friday night kind of music. Or your weekend staycation that calls for snuggle fest. The one that summons intimacy and personal time with your apple of the eye.

This is about getting that certain rush and excitement one can only get by being with someone that uncovers the excitement that’s not coming into show for a certain period of time.

It can also be about releasing uptightness and getting into an adventure of once in a lifetime. 

Whatever interpretation the listener may fathom while listening to this song, one good fact is true – this track will surely take a spot on the playlist of someone who needs a dose of goodness through music and rhythm.

http://laurenceourac.com/turn-it-up-with-kelly-clarksons-heartbeat-song/

Watch out as The Weeknd takes you to music frenzy

You might have thought of a feisty, chill, all-male group when you’ve heard about The Weeknd on your daily dose of music video scanning.

But further realization and information have busted your hopes of seeing guys parading on stage when you’ve come to know that The Weeknd is comprised of a solo artist.

A well-thought of branding, you say, and you just can’t stay away from the impressive musicality of The Weeknd as he string along collaborations with mainstream giants.

The Weeknd is actually Abel Tesfaye in real life, a Canada spawn R&B singer slash songwriter and record producer who’s slowly but surely cementing his fame to the general music market.

And The Weeknd had been envisioned as different from one-hit wonders and through his ceaseless thriving to becoming well-known, a favorable reception would be a gargantuan possibility that’s just difficult to miss.

Using social media as his entering platform to be famous, The Weeknd uploaded several mixtapes on video community YouTube the latter part of 2010.

By sparking interest to avid music followers, The Weeknd took advantage of this strategy in sharing his talent by not exerting much on packaging, music dissemination and costly branding.

By 2011, he had been a smash artist over the internet with mixtapes being played by the 17-25 age brackets which include House of Balloons, Thursday and Echoes of Silence. All of the aforementioned mixtapes had been largely patronized.

The Weeknd then ventured into a more serious path in music by releasing an intelligent album compilation called Trilogy which lets out the genius in him.

Under Republic Records’ wings at that time, the album boasted remastered and edited versions of almost all of the released mixtapes and three new tracks that his growing fan base can enjoy.

The 25-year old Canadian prodigy then hoisted up another album in 2013 called Kiss Land with debut track of the same name and the song Live For as a follow-up song to keep it sellable at music bars.

Just this year, The Weeknd had been awarded by the Juno Awards as Artist of the Year and his song Often was given two majors which are Soul Recording of the Year and Video of the Year.

With almost three or four years afloat the music industry, The Weeknd also received accolades from Grammy’s as a nominee for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration in 2014 for the song Remember You.

http://laurenceourac.com/watch-out-as-the-weeknd-takes-you-to-music-frenzy/

String of epic duets at the US Billboard 100

Duets have always been an exciting part of easy-listening music. The satisfaction that we normally experience when we get to listen to a solo act becomes doubled when we hear songs sung by two individuals.

Music had generally received this type of singing as a melodic treat to avid followers, and as we progress through time, the approach on duets had improved from the usual love ballad take to socially-relevant pieces with a hint of digitalized musical backdrop.

Collaborations from two awesome artists would only mean heavenly ranks from the most-coveted chart listing bodies, nodding approvals for each of the singers’ flexibility and high expectations to connive again.

The US Billboard Hot 100 had been a credible resource for the most famous duets that topped their lists from Day 1 and they recognize the efforts being put-in on a duet. They have a lot of songs who climbed the top spot and some of them are mentioned in a quick list below.

Officially released in 1981, diva Diana Ross and balladeer Lionel Richie’s Endless Love had been considered as the best duet of all time by the Billboard Hot 100. With their staying power of an amazing 27 weeks as part of the charts, Endless Love had been an indelible love song which had been revived by various artists like Luther Vandross and Mariah Carey.

The soft and romantic vibe that this song had exuded made it the number 1 song for nine consecutive weeks. Seventeen years after, The Boy Is Mine had been popularized by two equally relevant femme fatales Brandy and Monica.

Back then, both of the singers are entering their adulthood and the song is just fitting for girls who are clamoring for a guy’s love. The fight-like lyrics and ego-smashing voices of the two belles had made this single one of the few songs who has stayed a lengthy 13 weeks atop the charts.

Jennifer Lopez and Ja Rule’s 2001 smash I’m Real is also something memorable as this validated that R&B can also be pleasant to the ears without the urban vibe given-off by a group.

The catchy sing-song and the eloquent lyrics of this track had made it impossible for it not to be trumping out other songs during that time. A year after comes Dilemma, another R&B duet made popular by its true-to-life lyrics and the bumpy tune that rap contributed to the song. Nelly and just-left-Destiny’s-Child singer Kelly Rowland have successfully made this song a 10-week runner on US Billboard Hot 100.

Starting out as well like Rowland in Dilemma, Beyonce had made sure that her track with Sean Paul will be shooting up to the charts as they released Baby Boy in 2003.

Relevant artists Alicia Keys and Usher can also be remembered by their duet for My Boo, released in 2004, which then stayed for six weeks on Billboard’s number 1 pedestal.

Nelly Furtado and Timbaland also got a duet to boot for Promiscuous which had been lodged for eight weeks on the chart as the toplister in 2006.

Some of the other duets celebrated by US Billboard Hot 100 includes I’m Your Angel (R.Kelly and Celine Dion), I Just Can’t Stop Loving You (Michael Jackson and Siedah Garrett), The Next Time I Fall (Peter Cetera and Amy Grant), Up Where We Belong (Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes), No Air (Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown), Baby Come To Me (Patti Austin and James Ingram) and You’re The One That I Want (Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta).

http://laurenceourac.com/string-of-epic-duets-at-the-us-billboard-100/

Apple music making huge splashes

The digital era has been going on for years taking over the lives of anyone who happen to have at least one digital device. One prominent justification of the current culture is through music.

From the earliest (big) portable music players to smartphones and to really, really, small devices, no more are the days where music is hard to come by – or rather, too big to carry even if you say it’s portable.

Of all the ways to listen to music, streaming them online is perhaps one of top “go-to” picks. No wonder different companies are aspiring to monopolize the listeners and record labels. It’s a booming business.

Further cementing the trend into a lasting shift in society, the tech giant – Apple if not its rival – has come aboard on the sailing ship of the new era with a new platform called Apple Music.

Basically aiming to entice listeners to change their status from a free subscriber to rather paying one, Apple has taken many paths in order to accomplish just that.

One unoriginal but still notable strategy is through exclusive partnership with renowned artists in the industry. Successful artist and entrepreneur Pharrell Williams has signed an exclusive deal with the Apple company, in which it entails his singles to be available on Apple Music only. His new single, Freedom, was already used in the new ad of the company. (Hmm, could this be the start of a new album?)

Although a huge wow-factor, the sparkle of this partnership will most likely lose its vibrant in the times to come. But who cares? Apple wants it big and they will certainly make it big with every available strategy out there, including signing up prolific names in music in radio presentation such as Dr Dre, Drake, and Elton John. Beats 1 is a radio service accompanying the app.

Another splash to add in the launch of Apple Music is the availability of the Taylor Swift’s 1989 album. 

Even though it’s not an exclusive deal, the fact that it is only available in this date to Apple earns it lots of brownie points.

The new music app, after the free trial, will cost $9.99 a month or some can opt for $14.99 a month, which is a family plan including a maximum of six members. A three-in-one pack with no adverts – music service, social network, radio station – Apple has ensured you’ll look nowhere else.

http://laurenceourac.com/apple-music-making-huge-splashes/

Sam Hunt, country music’s rising charmer

Could it be that the bushy sound of country music again uncovered another stellar in the person of debonair Sam Hunt? He may just be starting but this guy right here has already captured the hearing of gaining population of audiences especially those of with inclination with country music.

Long before we heard his husky voice back in 2014, Hunt has been writing songs for other country music giants like Keith Urban in Cop Car, Kenney Chesney in Come Over and Billy Currington in We Are Tonight.

You simply cannot miss the presence of this man be it on screen or during live performances. Aside from the looks that is truly to behold, he is also a scene stealer – blame his height as he stands 6’4. Really, can someone possibly have it all?

Before writing lyrics and singing melodies, Hunt can be seen playing in football fields. He had a promising career as a quarterback in schools Middle State Tennessee State University and University of Alabama in Birmingham back then. Born in December 1984 in Cedartown Georgia, Hunt tried getting into football but due to injuries that caused him to have limited participation, the desire was gradually converted to music.

It was January 2014 when he signed up for MCA Nashville. Months later, he released X2C which debuted number 36 on billboard 200. It even managed to penetrate Billboard’s Top Country Album Chart hitting number 5. The said album sold 8,000 copies on its first week of release.

His debut album was released in November of 2014 entitled Montevallo following the name of his old flame’s hometown. The said album reached number 1 on Top Country Albums. It even reached number three spot in Billboard 2000. This album has been gaining success as it marked 70, 000 units sold from its opening. His reach was concluded as the tickets for his tour Lipstick Graffiti got wiped within minutes after the announcement of ticket availabilities has been made.

http://laurenceourac.com/sam-hunt-country-musics-rising-charmer/

Your music 10 years ago (Where are they now?)

I bet most of you have already experienced having their playlist on shuffle and then suddenly one particular song came on play and you feel nostalgic all of a sudden. It’s with this particular event why this article came about. There’s just something beautiful and tragic on looking back, and there’s nothing better than to visit it with music.

Here are the top picks (in no particular order) of the popular songs that will tell you, “Yes, it’s been a decade. And yep, we’re growing old.”

1. Don’t Cha – Pussycat Dolls anyone? This single was the lead track of the group’s debut album PCD released in September 2005. It received a worldwide commercial success, hitting the Billboard’s Hot 100 at 2nd place and has been on repeat in parties and afternoon jams during that time. To be blunt, the group isn’t one of the finest of the crop, yet they manage to hook the audience with this song – and that’s something to be congratulated about. However, the group did not hold, as they leave one by one until the original group completely disbanded.

2. My Humps – Yep, this track is 10 years old. You’re probably guilty of dancing to the tune of this song. Despite the repetitive, shallow, and sexual innuendos of this song, it garnered “Black Eyed Peas” awards and place on the international charts, thanks to its commercial success. Now the song was buried deep on everyone’s playlist – or worse deleted – except for the few accidental plays here and there.

3. You and Me – A good song that starts-up the year 2005. Released in January 28, the song was embraced by the Lifehouse fans. It was described as “a tender acoustic love ballad;” a perfect theme song for anyone inlove. It’s one of those songs you can’t delete and probably have no plan in doing so. Lifehouse is currently on hiatus pursuing solo careers. Their comeback? Still hoping for it.

4. Photograph – Obviously it’s not Ed Sheeran’s; it’s Nickelback’s. Despite numerous criticisms hurled in the band’s direction, the Canada-based band is as successful as the definition would allow it would be. And their single “Photograph” is one of the evidences of that success. It peaked at several international charts further fortifying the group’s place in the industry.

5. Gold Digger – The reason why Nickelback’s “Photograph” failed to peak at Hot 100 is Kanye West’s single “Gold Digger.” The single previous to the song failed and some are a bit worried on how the next track would fair. Turns out it fairs more than fine and breaks records along the way.

6. Bad Day – you’re no stranger to Daniel Powter’s Bad Day. Though a mixture of positive and negative reviews, the single made its mark among listeners. It was the most played in Europe’s radio and became one of the prominent songs used in TV ads and shows.

7. Dance, Dance – From being the butt of emo jokes to a rock band with legacy, Fall Out Boy has come a long way. Of the bands born late on 90’s to early 2000, FOB held on fast and their fans did as well. Probably because of their singles we came to love. Dance, Dance was released late 2005 and has won the band numerous nominations and awards.

http://laurenceourac.com/your-music-10-years-ago-where-are-they-now/

Cinema actors slash musicians, a short list

We might have known some people who have been adept in showing the moves and a committed ear sore when it comes to singing. Some tried their luck in dancing while they already have a golden voice to enrich. We all have different talents to boot and we also have this weird urgency to try things alien to us.

While being great at one act of performing, we totally suck at the other, and we know we are not alone. But when God showered humankind with talents to perform, these people might have given a divine signal and have caught all the Heaven’s mighty blessings. We have known the people stated below as on-screen stars, big Hollywood bagshot names and people circling the world of cinema and yet, they have released music albums while at the peak of their acting careers. They are the Jack and Jill of all trades, and we can envy them for being so good at acting and singing they deserved to be called demigods.

Scarlett Johansson is one of the most beautiful faces to have ever walked the streets of Hollywood. With huge movies which she’s the leading actress, it is no wonder Scarlett’s name is known to almost any corner of the world. Little did everyone know that she released an album last 2008 which is entitled Anywhere I Lay Head after dropping hints two years back that she wanted to take a shot in being a singer.

Her appearance in Justin Timberlake’s What Goes around Comes Around music video is a clear sign that she’s really interested to do it; we’ve just been blinded by her angelic face and bodacious body. While music critics never have been harsh to the said album, they aren’t huge fans, too. Her streak in venturing music had branched out another European-released album with Pete Yorn called Break Up. Scarlett, we will never get tired of your music being internationally appreciated, your efforts will all be worth it.

Even before Kevin Bacon starred in Hallow Man, X-Men and Apollo 13, the actor had been active as well in underground music as the half of the band duo, The Bacon Brothers. Doing it with Brother Michael, Kevin Bacon had put focus on bluegrass rock genre and had been able to release six studio albums with 36 Cents as their seventh set to be available in 2016. Kevin and Michael had been performing on gigs for charity and while not as famous as they were on the cinema; the duo is keeping their passion alive by still creating music whenever given the chance.

If Ryan Gosling would sing for a girl, butterflies and kisses would surely be inevitable. After starring as Noah on the hit love story The Notebook, the whole female population never took their eyes off Gosling’s heavenly and twisted manly features. Girls might run to the nearest record bar and search for Dead Man’s Bones, Gosling’s only released album in 2009.

While the album’s twelve cuts might not be as romantic as how we pictured Gosling, the risky take of doing this album which stressed the ghastly and the dark should be well commended already. 

Currently, girls can ogle on Gosling’s frequency in the Hollywood industry and can patiently wait for the next album. Spoiler alert: no plans have been leaked yet about this follow-up album, so better keep moving.

Another character that we won’t forget is Zooey Deschanel’s Summer in the movie 500 Days of Summer. While we can remember that there are a lot singing and humming involved in the movie, we never imagined Zooey taking music seriously. Teaming up with other music enthusiasts they have formed She and Him, which take notes on vintage pop.

The band’s first album, Volume One had received favorable responses from the general music critics. Suitable enough, the band had continued to march on and commercialized three more studio albums and is currently on the move in taking the mainstream music industry.

Circulating pubs and complexes since the 1990s, Jack Black and Kyle Gass’ rock band Tenacious D is something worthy of your ears. Jack Black is one of the funniest guys in show business and his take as Po in Kung Fu Panda is just hilarious but brace yourselves as you witness Black’s total transformation when he’s imbibing the musician alter-ego. Tenacious D’s latest release is on 2012 entitled Rize of Fenix (spelled that way) is a Grammy nominated album and have been praised by some fans due to its highly-comedic relief through music.

Other stars who have taken a shot in the music industry while being the famous that they can be on the limelight are Russell Crowe, Eddie Murphy, Donald Glover, Robert Downey Jr., David Hasselhoff, Jennifer Love Hewitt and Bruce Willis. Take note that this artists are certified as to have released their own albums, which are sold and purchased by the general public.

http://laurenceourac.com/cinema-actors-slash-musicians-a-short-list/

Be pampered with the girl prodigies of TLC

We rarely see girl groups nowadays as the general music scene have been dominated by solo acts like that of Miley Cyrus, Conor Maynard, Ariana Grande and Jessie J. While we don’t complain as these soloists are keeping mainstream music alive and competitive, we somewhat yearn for a fantastic girl trio or group to sing songs that speak of woman empowerment, love and relationships.

We can all nod in satisfaction when we reminisce of Destiny’s Child, Spice Girls, The Platters and Pussycat Dolls. Aside from the magnificent musicality that we’ve heard from these belles, it is just a refreshing view to see combination of tones and tunes and moves by an all-girl group. Whoever who don’t know TLC is either bonkers or just plain dumb, and it is no surprise that there are hordes of fans who are missing this dynamic trio of superb talent and cool musical aura.

TLC had been known for their wide span of music genres and fantastic collaborations. Ranging from R&B, Hip Hop, funk and new jack swing, the trio had been widely recognized globally and sashayed their way to numerous music awards and charts. Comprised of Tionne Watkins, Lisa Lopes and Rozonda Thomas, TLC had been one of the most known musical groups due to their humongous hits that tackled social consciousness, beauty and glamour and women empowerment. Started at the year 1990, TLC had been jumping off of equally huge music labels with the likes of LaFace, Arista and Epic.

The group had been successful on their musical endeavors and topped US charts with a whopping 10 singles. TLC had released four studio albums— On the TLC Tip (1992), CrazySexyCool (1994), Fan Mail (1999) and 3D (2002), all of which ended with a multi-platinum classification. Because of their famously patronized hits like No Scrubs, Waterfalls, Unpretty and Creep, TLC had been ranked as the seventh most successful act of the 1990s by the relevant Billboard Awards. It is also no surprise that TLC had been dubbed as the best-selling American female group in the United States with 65 million records sold worldwide.

On their whole career run, TLC had received a lot of accolades left and right. Some of which are from MTV Video Awards for Video of the Year, Best Group Video and Viewer’s Choice for Waterfalls in 1995. They are also praised highly by the coveted Grammy’s and went home with five major awards which includes Best R&B Album for CrazySexyCool, Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal for their song Creep, Best R&B Album for FanMail, and the same awards as with Creep for No Scrubs with the addition of it being 2000’s Best R&B Song.

Just January this year, TLC, with remaining members Thomas and Watkins announced that a fifth album is in the works.

http://laurenceourac.com/be-pampered-with-the-girl-prodigies-of-tlc/