Let’s Be Birds by Jacob Whitesides, do we see another star growing right before us?

It will not be new if we see new faces trying just to win a spot in mainstream music. Every now and then we see real talents come and go.

There is a long line of hopefuls wanting to get even a smallest chance and own even a slightest place in the industry considered to be for the most talented, the high and the famous.

Let us meet Jacob Whitehouse, a young man who’s slowly gaining ground and getting attention by his music and good looks. Hearing his EP named A Piece of Me, we know this guy has talent, but does he possess a distinct identity that can make him unique from the others? He’s still on his way. His songs are of major compilation of ballads and slow music.

There is a vibe of Justin Bieber-ish on his sound, but his romantic sound draws a thin line between his style and Bieber’s early sound.

His EP was originally released February of this year and immediately managed to climb top five of Top Album Charts and number one on Singer/Songwriter Chart. Starting at a young age, we know that this seventeen year-old budding artist has a long way to come.

Some of his songs will even remind you of Ed Sheeran and John Mayer. Are these two some of his music influences? Probably. When asked who are the people he wants to have dinner with, these two great talents came on the list. Not a bad choice though. Who wouldn’t anyway?

His name keeps on popping out on every websites’ rising star list. We cannot deny that this young singer has potential makings of being a star. The way he looks is a total give away, not to mention his singing voice.

It will not be surprising if we just find him one of these days being mobbed by fan girls. But as to when his time will come? That is something that we have to wait for.

http://laurenceourac.com/lets-be-birds-by-jacob-whitesides-do-we-see-another-star-growing-right-before-us/

Leon Bridges brings back the oldies with Coming Home

An old soul trapped in a mid- twenties body – that’s who Leon Bridges is. In a contemporary world of sonic sounding, heart pumping and sometimes over the bordering sexiness type of music, there comes a classic sound that reminds us of the good old days where ballads accompanied by percussions and strings unite.

Let us go back to the golden days of the 1950’s where the sound is all about smooth sounding with the suede of soul. Leon Bridges help us track back in trance and reminisce the good old sounding days of the 50’s era.

Packaged with fashion sense derived from the said epoch, Bridges’ Coming Home album has received nothing but applaud and appreciation from the critics and hearing public alike. Donning the Sam Crooke vibe, the 26-year old singer was able to steal attentions and garner approval from the masses that were able to hear his music.

The 10-track old school album was released June of 2015 and produced by Justin Block and Justin Jenkins of White Denim. He signed with Columbia that paved way for him to catch further audience reach.

Aside from his captivating voice, the way Bridges’ wears his outfit is truly a scene stealer. Sticking to the era where his music resides, Bridges opt for wide collared, high wasted pants are the staple wardrobe of the 50’s. Many would think that this is just a part of marketing scheme but the singer stressed the fact that the style is truly his. How he wears is his representation of his own self.

During his early life, Bridges is more of a dancer than a singer. In college, he took advanced courses in ballet and jazz, then hip hop and street dance. It was only when he was 19 that someone recognized the potential in his voice.

Not long after though, he had to set park studying and decide to find a job to help his mother. At 21, he began holding the guitar and started writing songs. During one of his gigs, he met Jenkins and the rest is history.

They say classic is something that transcends through time. Will this balladeer surpass the challenges of today’s music and be able to penetrate and influence others through a different sound that’s not typical for the contemporary taste? Hoping it is so.

http://laurenceourac.com/leon-bridges-brings-back-the-oldies-with-coming-home/

Blaring and Wild, A Glimpse of Rock in Rio 2015

Despite the sweltering heat and the plethora of fans crowding the festive city of Rio de Janeiro, the Rock in Rio Festival 2015 had pulsed a very good reception from the general music industry, with and without attendance.

Kicking-off the celebration a week before the scheduled date of the festival, music mongers from all over the world had gathered up in full blast as they await their rooted artists and group acts to saturate the makeshift stage with all-good music megalomania.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary of this year’s franchise, Rock in Rio 2015 is equipped to be an amalgamation of what happened in the last three decades, and yet, they’re preparing for more. The pre-festival gala had been cramped with humongous acts on the likes of legendary rock icon Metallica, balladeer Rod Stewart and the hyped-up group Queen.

Some of the other acts that made the pre-festival a success are comprised of The Script, One Republic, and Barbara Tucker, Baby do Brasil, John Legend and Elton John.

The Rock in Rio 2015 had pretty much lived up to their annual promise of giving fans, nothing but the best and has decided to put up five different stages and a strong line-up to boot.

Last week’s performances have been a great preamble on what’s about to happen, and the Fest organizers never planned to disappoint.

One of the highlights of Rock in Rio was Rihanna’s ultimate showcase of talents from pop diva Rihanna and the much-awaited stage presence of Queen with American Idol hopeful Adam Lambert.

Queen has been associated with the Rock in Rio Festival for their opening act for the festival’s first edition with the song Love of My Life. Aside from Queen’s electrifying collab with another much-loved artist, the crowd also jeered for balladeer Rod Stewart and he never failed to make the audience validate that he’s still got the hots to perform.

It had been said that for the Rock in Rio tickets, the singer’s slot have dealt with the most number of tickets sold. Rod’s performance has been well supported by an equally famous music superstar, Elton John.

The production number that Stewart and John have produced truly vindicated them as two of the most iconic singers to have walked the Earth. Meanwhile, Seal and Os Paralamas so Sucesso have created a great follow-up on Rock in Rio’s Palco Mundo stage.

One of the show-stoppers in Rock in Rio’s full-blown lineup is Rihanna’s moment while she was dressed in a minimalist scale with just wide trousers and a matching jacket, all adorned with shimmering necklaces.

Her energy was seen as pulsating, with her vocal prowess serenading the whole frenetic fans of the Fest. Rihanna belted out her worldwide hit songs and these tracks made the crowd dancing and prancing all over the venue.

Katy Perry, glammed up on her usual colorful ensemble, also gave a chilling set of timeless classic all harnessed from her released LPs.

Other stars that have graced the Rock in Rio 2015 stage include Sergio Mendez, Sam Smith, Lulu Santos, A-ha, Al Jarreau, Amanda Chang, Faith No More and Slipknot.

Since it happened in Brazil, the organizers also have made the Fest as an opportunity to celebrate Rio de Janeiro’s 450th anniversary and a commemorative line-up of artists have crafted to give a memorable number.

Local stars such as Buchecha, Roberta Sa, Gabriel Pensador, Fernanda Abreu, Maria Rita and other artists have put the crowd in a very dramatic yet joyous mood through the acts put-up and played together.

As usual, all of the artists who were privileged to perform at this year’s installment have given out their best into channeling the genres expected such as pop, funk, hip hop, rock and even more localized stuff, such as samba and chorinho.

Indeed, Rock in Rio could have been better if extended longer, but a magnificent festival, as such, would be keeping its promise of a better version, for next year’s and the decades to come.

http://laurenceourac.com/blaring-and-wild-a-glimpse-of-rock-in-rio-2015/

Macki Music Festival concerts in Paris

The Macki Music Festival is under the sign of the glamor and illusion of September 25 to 27 for its second edition. Eclecticism is the key word of these three days. DJ sets and concerts in Paris (and Carrières-sur-Seine) await festival goers in a groovy atmosphere.

The collective Mamie’s and Cracki Records join forces on 25, 26 and 27 September for the second edition of the Macki Music Festival. This is the machine that launches the Moulin Rouge festivities: electro announced with Genius of Time, Bambounou, Eliott and 45 ACP Litrowski the decks for the opening.

The next day, it is a more afro beat that will have you grooving because Tony Allen will be present on the stage of Carrières-sur-Seine Park. Moodoïd swing his psychedelic rock, the British Floating Points will excite deep on his notes and Brussels Shungu will rock the crowd with his chill music.

The next day, Nightmare on Wax will make us dream live, Mad Rey will prevail with its jazzy sound and his piano at the end of the song. We will also leave enchanted by the sweet melodies of the Archipelago, mix wisely dosed between lyrical pop, folk and electro, futuristic tones. The Macki Music Festival 2015 looks promising with the eagerly awaited came Truck Bazaar, Romare, Threesomes and Chester Watson.

In 2015, the Macki Music Festival intends to develop its “village” around various activities: massage, food truck, store, thrift store. A seductive condensed and a mixture of styles that promise a rhythmic weekend.

The opening of the Macki Music Festival will be held Friday, September 25 from 11:30pm to the Machine du Moulin Rouge, 90 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris. 26 and 27 will pass to the park of the Town Hall, 78420 Carrières-sur-Seine. 1 day passes to € 27.80. Pass two days to 54 €.

http://laurenceourac.com/macki-music-festival-concerts-in-paris/

Discover the pre-appointment of the NRJ Music Awards 2015

Get out your calendars. The music stars give you an appointment on November 7 for the 2015 edition of the NRJ Music Awards. And that’s Nikos Aliagas who will take orders for the ceremony to be held at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes. As every year, the public will be voting to designate the best artists of the year.

First step: Pre-appointments. From September 14th until September 27th, six appointed will be subject to votes of users on NRJ.fr MyTF1.fr and sites, which will select four in each category. With one exception, the winner of the category of French song of the year (which later proved to be appointed) will be decided live during the ceremony.

Among the pre-appointed unsurprisingly found Christine and the Queens, Zazie, Indila, Shy’m or Zaz while among men, black face Calogero M, M Pokora, Master Gims and kendji. The Voice of the old participants will also present with Louane and Lilian Renaud, selected in the category revelations of the year and fréro delavega which is among the pre-named category of group / company / French duo of year against Brigitte, Cats On Trees and The legend of King Arthur in particular.

As for international artists, we will find Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, Madonna, Rihanna, Taylor Swift and Sia for women while in men the battle will be tight between Justin Bieber, Enrique Iglesias, Mika, Sam Smith and Ed Sheeran.

The complete list of pre-named the NRJ Music Awards 2015:

French female artist of the year:

Christine and the Queens
Pirate’s heart
Indila
Shy’m
ZAZ
Zazie

French male artist of the year:

Black M
Calogero
Kendji girac
M Pokora
Master Gims
Soprano

French revelation of the year:

Marina Kaye
Louane
Nekfeu
Lilian Renaud
The Avener
Vianney

Group / troop / French duo of the year:

Brigitte
Cats On Trees
Fréro Delavega
The legend of King Arthur
L.E.J.
Alain Souchon and Laurent Voulzy

International Female Artist of the Year:

Selena Gomez
Ariana Grande
Madonna
Rihanna
Sia
Taylor Swift

International Revelation of the Year:

Madilyn Bailey
Ellie Goulding
Wiz Khalifa
Kygo
Omi
The Weeknd

Male International Artist of the Year:

Justin Bieber
Jason Derulo
Enrique Iglesias
Mika
Ed Sheeran

Sam Smith

Group / Duo of the Year International:

Nicky Jam and Enrique Iglesias
Major Lazer
maroon 5
Muse
Rihanna / Kanye West / Paul McCartney
Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars

International Song of the Year:

Want To Want Me – Jason Derulo
See You Again – Wiz Khalifa feat. Charlie Puth
Lean On – Major Lazer feat. Mo & DJ Snake
Cheerleader – Omi
Uptown Funk – Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars
Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran

Video of the Year:

Christine – Christine and the Queens
Hey Mama – David Guetta ft Nicki Minaj, Bebe Rexha & Afrojack
Lean On – Major Lazer feat. Mo & DJ Snake
Sugar – Maroon 5
Bad Blood – Taylor Swift
Ü Where Are Now – Skrillex & Diplo feat. Justin Bieber

DJ of the Year:

Avicii
DJ Snake
David Guetta
Calvin Harris
Robin Schulz
Martin Solveig

http://laurenceourac.com/discover-the-pre-appointment-of-the-nrj-music-awards-2015/

Apple Music: Apple promises improvements while the free ends

Apple Music is the answer to the expectations of the firm Internet for streaming music consumption. The giant is not the first mover in the market and must therefore find its place, especially in the face Spotify.

And for that, Apple needs a quality service. But it is he seems not entirely at the rendezvous. Asked by the Guardian, Schusser Oliver, vice president of iTunes International, acknowledged that the margin improvement was significant.

Apple Music – convince the deadline of September 30

Apple “has some homework to do,” he said. “A lot of work is being done to make the best product. The focus is on the editorial and playlists, and obviously we have teams around the world working on this,” added the Apple leader.

The firm also promises new features and rectify “certain things”. The Guardian is indeed an echo of user complaints about the Apple Music interface, deemed unintuitive, and bugs in bookstores.

“The product is always our priority […] Of course, we strive every day to improve it” assures Oliver Schusser. The word of Apple executives is rare, especially when it comes to confess weaknesses.

But the timing is not insignificant. The Apple Music free period will end on 30 September. At that date, users will have to decide whether they wish to pay monthly 9.99 or 14.99 euros.

In early August, Apple boss in charge of online services, Eddy Cue, Apple announced Music totaled 11 million registered or testers. Still, according to him, two million had already subscribed to the family to 14.99 euros. Nothing, however the standard subscription and the actual subscription.

The priority for Apple in September is to convert a maximum of testers into clients. In August, a study with US users MusicWatch estimated 48% share of registered deserting the service. Apple provides, however, that this share is much lower, around 21%, but did not specify the exact nature of that figure.

http://laurenceourac.com/apple-music-apple-promises-improvements-while-the-free-ends/

A nebulae in the making, M.O. is the next big thing

With her young age, her insatiable craving to magnet people’s attention and the visibility that she’s been receiving by circling rounds of small and humongous musical festivals, M.O. is actually one star on the rise that’s just hard not to notice.

If you’re on that canopy which adores artists such as Robyn, the legendary Spice Girls, Lykke Li and Melanie C, then M.O. might just be the next artist you need to be prepared on.

Unlike this generation’s female acts, M.O. is a diamond cut above precious gems due to her precise direction to be famous and the strict leaning on her chosen genre.

She might be taking baby steps in becoming a top-recording artist, but her small moves are now being magnified, what more if she’d become mainstream?

Born as Karen Marie Orsted in Odense, Denmark, this edgy young artist is focusing her musical energies through specific genres such as electronic, indie pop, soul, alternative dance and R&B.

M.O. is also a good pianist, which she’s been very vocal about when she’s out to perform for the crowds. Known for her often braided hair, the too close for comfort outfit and chilling voice, she is one of the most-awaited artists to get on stage specifically on music festivals.

Her stage name, M.O., actually means “virgin” on her mother country’s language and Denmark never let M.O. felt neglected as she have been praised and awarded with various recognitions such as Danish Music Awards’ Record of the Year, Solo Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year and Breakthrough Artist of the Year. M.O. is currently signed Sony Music Entertainment after her stints with Chess Club and RCA Victor since her musical career starting in 2012.

M.O. has released her first album entitled “No Mythologies to Follow” just last year and that’s when her success come rolling. Easily harnessing a fan base of her own, she had been part of collaborations with Iggy Azalea’s power track “Beg for It” and went straight to the US Billboard Hot 100 at the 27th spot. The streak continued as M.O. put forth talent with Major Lazer and DJ Snake for their hit “Lean On” which also penetrated the charts within the Top 20 ranks. Unexpectedly, “Lean On” was able to gather an outstanding number of views in YouTube (350 million) and have been streamed in Spotify, a wireless music site, 250 million times.

“No Mythologies to Follow” never had been a disappointment as the album peaked at 2nd spot in M.O.’s mother country Denmark and received a fair mix of reviews from music experts from all around the globe. M.O.’s songs are said to be brimming with personal thoughts and songs like “Glass”, “Pilgrim”, “Waste of Time”, “Don’t Wanna Dance”, “Say You’ll Be There” and “Walk This Way” have been making rounds on UK charts and internet radio. M.O.’s musical style is said to be on the electro music wing, with a lot of chutzpah and energy. Inspirations from this rising artist are pegged at Black Flag, Nirvana, Spice Girls, Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Sonic Youth. M.O. is said to be included on UK Fusion’s prestigious line up alongside Ed Sheeran and Conor Maynard.

http://laurenceourac.com/a-nebulae-in-the-making-m-o-is-the-next-big-thing/

Jaden Smith’s Scarface released

The 16-year old rapper and son of Will Smith is not all about fancy and flamboyant promotion. He proved yet again that he is on his way of making his own person as his new single “Scarface’ arrived the internet with muted fuss and classy entrance.

Released via his website 490tx.com, the new song from Jaden conveys inexplicit lyrics and metaphors that is definitely a hit not only for rap lovers but with artists at heart as well. With the subdued video to accompany the lyrics, Jaden is making it clear that he has a clear track of exploring and being sure of his own identity as an artist.

The video was shot in Italy and was directed by 21-year old former Hannah Montana star Moises Arias. The nooks and corners of stone alley walk exude nothing but hushed put on which no doubt went well with the cryptic wordings of his current track.

The lines ‘All you jokers think I’m tripping better think again / He’s a cool guy, to his side / Got a, nice ride, far sighted / Car ignited, too excited / And I don’t sink in it (no)’ must’ve been for the common misconceptions donned to him for being the offspring of one of Hollywood’s most important faces. 

We’ve known him on twitter as someone who would occasionally utter phrases and words about what he thinks about the generalities of life. He’s been outright on telling about his insights about several matters. We even caught him tweeting phrases like ‘Everybody Get Off Your Phones And Go Do What You Actually Wanna Do.’

The song even had phrases ’I got this jewelry on purposely / Just so you know when you work with me / Things can come down in a flurry, see.’ Could it be that these lines oppose what critics usually have in mind about celebrity sons and daughters being spoiled brats? Whatever it may be, we cannot deny that there’s a population that follows the path this young artist is heading. Let us not forget that over 4 million twitter followers that are on the look out of his posts and current moves. He may come from a privileged start, but with this young man’s determination and hard work, who knows? He may be one of Hollywood’s important guys like of his father’s…

http://laurenceourac.com/jaden-smiths-scarface-released/

Imbruglia’s unstoppable comeback via Album Male

She is best remembered to have delivered us undying lyrics such as “I’m all out of faith, this is how I feel. I’m cold and I’m chained lying naked on the floor…” and “Flowers in the bin, close this hole I’m in. Everything was done, nothing gets undone…” With her angelic face, we all have been surprised by how magnetic her voice can be, too.

And after a longish below the radar stance that she’d done for the last couple of years since 2009, Natalie Imbruglia is back to dominate again with a more pumped-up, smarter and bolder album set to hit the stands to compensate whatever it is that Imbruglia had left hanging after her fourth take in album making.

Released under Sony Music, Natalie Imbruglia’s fifth studio album entitled Male is released in some parts of the music planet last July 31st and is said to conquer the mainstream music on the following weeks. The 13-track album, produced by Billy Mann encompasses a multitude of genres to show the singer’s versatility with the likes of pop, rock and indie rock.

Male is also a pure renditions album, which features notable artists and respective tracks covered by Imbruglia’s edgy voice and incomparable musicality. The album title is named as such, as all of the songs within this latest Imbruglia album are sung by male leads and artists and have been recorded on a different approach.

Fans and music critics alike have generally praised this brave venture and as soon as all of the tracks have been released, it’s quite sure that this would be an album to remember for 2015.

With a good track record of albums in her entire career, which includes Come to Life, Counting Down the Days, Left of the Middle and White Lilies Island, Male is being awaited by the huge fan base of the pop singer and will definitely shoot some sales as the weeks pass by.

Some of the tracks included on the album are songs like Instant Crush (popularized by Daft Funk / Julian Casablancas), The Summer (Josh Pyke), Cannonball (Damien Rice), I Will Follow You in the Dark (Death Cab for Cutie), Friday I’m In Love (The Cure), Naked As We Came (Iron & Wine), I Melt With You (Modern English), The Waiting (Cat Stevens) and The Waiting (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers). As of current writing, Instant Crush has been released last March of this year and a follow-up single is in the works to be publicized.

Male will amaze Europe and New Zealand on the scheduled release date in August 21 while Australia’s turn would be on September 11.

http://laurenceourac.com/imbruglias-unstoppable-comeback-via-album-male/

The unusually great acts at the Lollapalooza Music Fest

With its weird name, this musical festival had been a must-see event being awaited by thousands of music lovers every year since its reprise in the year 2003.

Coming from an American idiomatic phrase which means an extraordinary thing or person, or anything that’s beyond unusual in a good way, the Lollapalooza Music Festival is an avenue for genres like alternative rock, heavy metal, pop, hip hop, EDM and punk rock to come together and entertain the always receptive ears of music lovers from all across the United States and the world.

Being done annually, this music festival has been on tours as well to nearby South American countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Germany and Colombia and will be held this year at Grant Park in Chicago for the dates of July 31 – August 2. Humongous names and acts in the music planet are set to the Lollapalooza stage on fire for this year’s franchise and ultimately, all the fest goers who would present in the event are in for a delightful, eargasmic treat.

The Lollapalooza Music Festival is the brainchild of Perry Farrell in 1991 as he bade goodbye to his then famous band, Jane’s Addiction. Since then, the fest has run annually until 1997 and was reprised in 2003 with a bigger audience that scopes North and South America.

For this year, the fest would be back to its hometown in Chicago with the help of concert outfit Capital Sports Entertainment. This music extravaganza entertains their patrons on a two or three-day music Utopia by some of the biggest names in the industry.

In general, the Lollapalooza’s audience is reaching an astounding audience count of 160,000 depending on the venue it would be performing at.

For 2015’s version, Lollapalooza would have a three-day schedule from Friday, July 31st up until Sunday, August 2nd. For the first day of the fest, front liners would be Paul McCartney, The Weeknd, alt-J, Alabama Shakes, Kaskade, Dillon Francis, Gary Clark Jr., Flying Lotus, DJ Snake, Hot Chip, The War on Drugs, Father John Misty, Cold War Kids, Sylvan Esso, MS MR, Tove Lo, St. Paul and the Broken Bones, Glass Animals, First Aid Kit, DJ Mustard, James Bay and Broods. Metallica, Sam Smith, Kid Cudi, Alesso, Tame Impala, Brand New, Carnage, G-Eazy, Walk The Moon, Tyler, Banks, Chet Faker and Django Django would lead the Saturday schedule. The last day of the fest surely would be best as Florence + The Machine, Bassnectar, Of Monsters and Men, TV on the Radio, Nero, Kygo, Nicky Romero, FKA Twigs, Sheppard and Mako are listed to perform.

For the whole duration of this music fest, some other artists who have graced the stage are Lorde, Bjork, The Smashing Pumpkins, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pearl Jam, Kings of Leon, Lady Gaga, Primus, Depeche Mode, Rage Against the Machine and Alice in Chains.

An after show is also part of the annual celebration and this part of the fest is where new artists and upcoming musical prodigies are given the opportunity to have their own spotlight and have a chance to take part of the following year’s Lollapalooza Fest.

http://laurenceourac.com/the-unusually-great-acts-at-the-lollapalooza-music-fest/

Ellie Goulding goes superhuman in latest video Powerful

British singing sensation Ellie Goulding teamed up with Major Lazer and Tarrus Riley and came up with a new music video called Powerful.

Seems like Goulding gets engrossed with bits of acting nowadays. We last saw her with good pal Taylor Swift doing a small stint on the Bad Blood video together with the earlier equally famous model and actress girlfriends.

Does this video alongside stellar castings fired up the unforeseen actress that’s yet to come in the person of this British singer? Who knows? This is just a speculation, but definitely a welcomed thought.

This is a fresher take for Goulding as the video, co-starring Major Lazer, had her portray someone who owns telekinetic powers. The video it looked like a short super hero movie that translates one of the most desired powers majority of human beings want to have.

The music video shows tons of lifting and rising of dinner utensils. It’s like having a short watch of sci-fi flick and getting a tiny dose of mighty ability most of us wanted to have during the childhood years.

Wording wise, the lyrics of the song tells the force and magnet love can bring to a person falling for it. While the song didn’t really conveyed the love story hiding in its lyrical content and focused mainly on the aesthetics of the word powerful, the lines and phrases describe exactly how it feels like to be into someone real deal.

Those who have fallen in love in truest extent can relate to lines ‘When you hold me / when you touch me / it’s so powerful / there’s an energy / When you hold me.’ Powerful indeed as described with the lines ‘I couldn’t leave if I wanted to / Cause something keeps pulling me back to you.’

http://laurenceourac.com/ellie-goulding-goes-superhuman-in-latest-video-powerful/ 

Drake charges with another track against Meek Mill

After the controversial word war between rivals Meek Mill and Drake, the battle for self-worth isn’t finished as the latter released yet another testament through a track that he isn’t fond of using ‘ghostwriters’ for his music.

Drake, with all the pressure being put by Meek Mill’s defamation allegations, has proven to the music industry that the respect he have harnessed from Day 1 of his career is through his sheer talent and creativity. Following his first bickering single ‘Charged Up’ just released July 25th, Drake immediately crafted another future smash hit entitled ‘Back to Back’ which is a blatant attack to Meek Mill and all of his spawned detractors.

Twitter had been witness on as to how Meek Mill and Drake battled it out through posts and the beefy bout between these two rappers is yet taken another turn as Drake channeled his irate by releasing tracks meant to dilute Mill’s words. Some of the hidden messages on Drake’s Back to Back track is the lyrics “Is that a world tour or your girl’s tour? / I know that you gotta be a thug for her/ This is not what she meant when she told you to open up more.” and “You love her then you gotta get a world tour,” which is a subtle if not an obvious attack on Meek Mill and girlfriend Nicki Minaj’s sort of parasitic relationship.

It can be remembered that after Drake’s release of Charged Up with sublime lyrics such as “I stay silent ‘cause we at war and I’m very patient. God is watching, I just hope you’re prepared to face him. I’m charged up, I’m charged up.”, Meek Mill posted a trail of Twitter posts such as ‘Baby lotion soft…’ which pertains to Drake’s mushy use of religion for this supposedly ‘manly’ match and ‘I can tell he wrote that 1 tho…’ relaying the anti-thesis message that Drake uses other people to write his rap tracks.

http://laurenceourac.com/drake-charges-with-another-track-against-meek-mill/

iHeartRadio music festival, a fest youngster to watch out for

One of the many considerations that an avid music Fest fan takes note of is the tenure, fame and longevity of the said event. There had been a copious number of music festivals that have been going on for decades, such as Coachella and Glastonbury, which quite established their reputation in providing quality entertainment through the string of world-famous acts and artists.

If a music festival is just recently propagated, chances are, it will not be a smash as compared to those who have been around since time immemorial or it will be a breath of fresh air to those who have seen it all. Music festivals in its early years yield an ambivalent reception and it is through resiliency and the pure love of music that it would thrive well.

Recently, one music festival who has been reverberating in the general concert scene is the iHeartRadio Music Festival and based on how it’s faring so far, it looked like this would stay a very long time for music lovers to patronize.

Normally being done as a two-day music extravaganza, the iHeartRadio Music Festival has gone on since 2011 and is always held at the luxurious MGM Grand Garden Arena in Paradise Nevada.

This music Fest is funded and founded by iHeartRadio which is an internet radio platform which works the same way as Apple Music and Spotify. Almost all of the annual franchise being held is broadcasted on music televisions such as VH1 and The CWW due to the fact that relevant names in the music industry stepped on the Fest’s stage.

The iHeartRadio Music Festival is separated by two divisions which are the main festival and the village. While both are defined to channel pure musical entertainment, the main fest is the one with a more solid line-up. The village, on the other hand, showcases upcoming and on-the-rise artists and is considered free for all who can’t be in the main fest.

The 2015 franchise is set to be held at the same venue on September 18 and 19. Heavy names in the music industry have been leaked through social media, which includes the likes of Sam Smith, Kanye West, The Who and the iconic Janet Jackson. This year marks the fifth year of the fest and fans and music critics are imposing so huge expectations.

The addition of Sam Smith in the line-up is such a surprise knowing that the pop sensation had just triumphed a vocal surgery early this year. Jackson, with all her glorious aura, is also a swell add-up on the line as she managed to squeeze in her appearance at the iHeartRadio Music Festival despite the tight schedule of his comeback world tour. Kanye West will perform on the fest’s stage for the first time.

Some of the other names included in the prestigious line-up are as follows—Demi Lovato, David Guetta, Kenny Chesney, The Weeknd, Tove Lo, Lil Wayne, Nick Jonas, Blake Shelton, Diplo, Prince Royce, Duran Duran, Hozier, Fallout Boy, Disclosure, Jason Derulo and Trey Songz.

Some of the other ventures of iHeartRadio when it comes to wide music propagation are iHeartRadio Music Awards, iHeartRadio Summer Pool Party, iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina and the iHeartRadio Country Festival.

http://laurenceourac.com/iheartradio-music-festival-a-fest-youngster-to-watch-out-for/

Alessia Cara and her high-sparked start

Music is an always-changing canopy which puts the newest flavors to suit everyone’s palate. We have seen the rise and fall of musicians and bands, been the victims of just-released music trends and witnessed how music evolved and conformed to what the audience needed and wanted.

With all the artists staying afloat for the past couple of months, music lovers’ insatiable craving to feel a fresh produce is always existent. Even though it’s such a shame to say the thought, no one will ever feel contented to the type of music out on the loose, hence, the full-to-the-brim coming of new sound brought about by a new artist.

Getting recognized isn’t so much of difficulty anymore as compared before due to social media’s tight grasp into the whole global village. True enough, you might have heard of this new spawn on Twitter under the name of Alessia Cara.

One of the many things that Alessia Cara has that is deemed prodigal by many is her capacity to not just sing songs but craft it. We are all still on high with Lorde’s esoteric lyrics and prose and getting Alessia Cara to be squeezed in wouldn’t be much of a hassle. Her innocent wide eyes, playful locks and definitely-a-youngster look are something that many admired and are willing to patronize.

Putting focus on R&B, Alessia has the same vocal prowess reminiscent of Lauryn Hill and the late Amy Winehouse. With the same intellectual wave as Lorde’s craftsmanship in lyrics combined with the electric voice of Hill, the result on the persona of Alessia Cara is not to be missed.

Alessia Cara’s track which have been released May of this year garnered a whopping 2 million views in YouTube and this eighteen year-old singer songwriter is up for more. Her debut album entitled Know It All is her homage to idol rock icon Def Jam and it had been said that Cara’s magnificence in songwriting is sparked and stretched on this album.

Born of a Canadian descent, Alessia Cara has been praised by pop diva Taylor Swift after the former’s take on the track Bad Blood which have gone viral on social media.

When asked about her thoughts on her album, Alessia Cara said “I’m not trying to be anything, and I’m really just trying to just get a message across while doing what I love. I think my songs can be relatable and help but they can be catchy, too.”

Currently, Alessia Cara is a frequent lister on Billboard Hot 100 after her definitive track ‘Here’ which tops the list for US R&B at the 13th spot. This song is one of the many reasons why Alessia is where she is right now and is known to be a part of her latest album called Pink Four Walls.

This wondrous young artist is under the musical wings of EP Entertainment and much of her activities and latest song covers can be accessed through her website, www.alessiacara.com

http://laurenceourac.com/alessia-cara-and-her-high-sparked-start/

A quick lookback to Michelle Branch’s music ingenuity

With her guitar being strummed to produce melodic tunes that have been essential to her ultimate success, Michelle Branch is one of the known pillars of acoustic and pop with her long list of songs that have floated since the start of her musical career in 1998.

Much more like on the same wavelength as Norah Jones, Vanessa Carlton and Joss Stone, Michelle Branch’s music have put distinction to the lives of the early-Millenials generation.

While still on an indefinite hiatus as of the moment, her songs are still on the radar being played over and over again with a focus on love, life, teenage years and feelings of youth. Michelle Branch is also known to have been active in collaborations with known bands such as Santana and is a distinct artist on her own, beautiful way.

Born Michelle Jacquet DeSevren Branch in the glorious year of 1983, Branch is known to be one of the most famous female artists of the 2000s. With her solo career, it can be fully remembered how Michelle Branch has climbed up the music, food chain via albums like the Broken Bracelet, The Spirit Room and Hotel Paper.

After finding a following of her own, Michelle then ventured into forming a duo which focuses on country music with friend and fellow musician Jessica Harp to form infamous The Wreckers.

Lasting at about two years of unstoppable runs in producing country-pegged tracks, the duo felt it necessary to part ways and trek solo careers again, which never have been difficult for Branch as she stormed her way to fame again.

All throughout her career, Michelle Branch has jumped into three humongous music conglomerates on the look of Maverick, Reprise and Nashville Records.

Spirit Room has been made available to the public on August 2001 wherein Branch has been internationally known for her song “Everywhere”. A series of accolades have been received due to this track including MTV Video Music Awards’ Viewer’s Choice in 2002.

Later on, Michelle Branch had never ceased in putting new music on the plate with songs All You Wanted and heartbreak anthem Goodbye To You. The album soared with humongous sales and a huge fan base specifically on the teenage market who has felt a deep connection with Branch’s released singles.

It is also on this part of her career where she first collaborated with Santana and became the voice of the song Game of Love which earned her Grammy recognition for Best Pop collaboration with vocals. In 2003, Michelle Branch also battled to grab the Best New Artist award and fall short out of Norah Jones’ then-huge name.

Hotel Paper was released a year after and also cemented Branch’s name in being one of the celebrated artists of her time. Songs like Are You Happy Now and Breathe are spawned on this music endeavor and scored Branch to be added on Billboard Hot 100’s long league of spot holders.

Branch owed her musical inclination to well known artists such as Alanis Morisette, Jewel, Fleetwood Mac, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles and Cat Stevens. Rumors of getting a new album on the stands have been in the works, but no final words have been released. Currently, Michelle Branch is a mother of Owen Isabelle last 2005 and just a divorcee to bass player Teddy Landau last 2014.

http://laurenceourac.com/a-quick-lookback-to-michelle-branchs-music-ingenuity/

Melanie Martinez on another alluringly warped music: “Sippy Cup”

What’s the charm in Melanie Martinez’s music? Once you hear it, you have to know who she is. The former The Voice Season 3 contestant has shaped up to be one of the most unique singer pop music has come to know. She breathes out the music, each note seeming to be an enticing whisper of a darling child – husky and innocent – who has come to know the dark side of life far too early.

And there lies the power in her music; the power in which high notes and octaves-high singing cannot achieve. She delivers her music sweet contained in an innocent-looking sippy cup, yet blended well in a delicious amount of deadly syrup – and with this, Melanie Martinez knows how to conquer the industry and the listeners who have heard and yet to hear her music.

With each release of Melanie’s track from her Crybaby album, listeners are spent with too much anticipation. From the canorous turmoil we’ve seen and heard in the album’s lead single “Pity Party” to the bubbly disoriented concordant of “Soap,” the peculiar singer proves that her album should not be missed. And with the recent track released last July 31, Melanie has us captivated yet again, albeit, it is for another twisted musical tale – “Sippy Cup”.

Melanie Martinez has revealed in an interview with the SPIN Magazine that “Sippy Cup” is the “bridge between the Dollhouse EP and the Cry Baby album.” In this track, the singer delved deeper into the bleak family issue of the track “Dollhouse.” She unveils the horror at what “goes down in the kitchen.” And if we thought her previous singles to be grim enough, she puts the wretchedness on a whole new level in “Sippy Cup.”

Onto the sound of the track, it is notably quiet compared to its predecessor. Mostly it is Melanie’s whisper-like vocals that drove the song coupled with a few slow beat and this characteristic answer and blended well with the theme of the song making it a flawless package of murderous song.

The music video is an impressive cut directed by Melanie herself. She’s playing as an angel here only this time, it is not a dress-up moment. After her mother killed her cheating husband by his mistress, the “cry baby” is next on her list killing her through the syrup in a sippy cup.

Cry Baby is already out in the Market, grab a copy now!

http://laurenceourac.com/melanie-martinez-on-another-alluringly-warped-music-sippy-cup/

5SOS shakes off the boyband misnomer on “She’s Kinda Hot”

5 Seconds of Summer may be on the road with their Rock Out With Your Socks Out Tour still blazing on, yet it does not mean they don’t have the time to give their fans (those who aren’t able to make it on their concert) a song to keep them happy and feeling the love from the boys.

Last July 17, the boys can’t help but release the first single from their much-anticipated sophomore studio album entitled “She’s Kinda Hot.” It’s an ode to everyone pressured into fitting in and a music offering a sense of belonging to those unappreciated members of the society according on an interview with the boys on Billboard.

Onto the sound of the song, Michael Clifford, the guitarist of the band, admitted to Rolling Stone his surprise for the warm and enthusiastic reception of the song because, “it’s heavy as hell,” to quote his exact words.

While we can believe “She’s Kinda Hot” is a 5SOS song, there is nothing like the sound of this track on their self-titled debut album. Filled with weekend worthy jams on the poolside and upbeat tempo to boot, their last album is already a pop punk, but in this new track, the amps are further slid up.

As conveyed on Billboard, the band already planned on heating things up in the beginning by playing a heavier music to keep the live performance more alive for the audience. However, for those who are not a fan of heavy materials, the band made sure that you would still enjoy the song.

“She’s Kinda Hot” opens up to an easy pickings of an acoustic guitar layered by marimbas while singing about an infatuation with a girl then broken in by guitar solos until the boys are singing about being fine despite what the society dictates them to be.

“She’s Kinda Hot” is a noisy and quirky track from the boys going well with the theme of their song. “We are the new kings and queens of the new broken scene” – now that’s a mantra of a full-fledged rock band royalty.

http://laurenceourac.com/5sos-shakes-off-the-boyband-misnomer-on-shes-kinda-hot/

The Voice’ of Christina Grimmie from YouTube to world stage

Christina Grimmie a 15 year old girl who dared to post a cover of on Hannah Montana’s song entitled “Don’t Wanna Be Torn”, became a hit in 2009 making her an instant YouTube sensation. She also did covers for over several more Hollywood singers such as Miley Cyrus, Justin Bieber, Demi Lovato, etc. She was able to captivate 375 million YouTube viewers and over 2 million subscribed to her channel as of April 28, 2013, and because of that she was awarded and known for being the “4th most subscribed musician on YouTube.” This fame became her stepping stone to reach a bigger stage.

Christina Victoria Grimmie, was born and raised in Marlton, New Jersey, March 12, 1994. Grimmie has both Italian and Romanian parentage. Her love of Music based on her Dad’s observation when she was growing up was innate because at the age of 6 years old Grimmie can already sing. At the age of 10, although she is already doing some piano lessons, her Dad can tell that she can play it by ear even without a formal training on piano.

She already knew how to play it only by hearing the tune. Grimmie also identifies herself as a Christian in several interviews and videos that she posts on YouTube. Grimmie was first recognized as zeldaxlove64 in YouTube, one leap of faith brought her out of the YouTube screens, and that is when she entered one of America’s leading singing competition known as “The Voice” in 2014 season 6. There she stole the hearts of all four judges having all of them turned their seats to her captivating serene yet powerful voice.

Her audition piece was Miley Cyrus’ famous “Wrecking Ball” where she left the stage wrecked as she sang the song, giving it a fresh rendition which showed her prowess in singing and arranging songs. She chose Adam Levine to be her coach and finished ranked in 3rd place.

Although Christina did not win the competition, she did engage with many of her followers and subscribers on YouTube and extended to be famous now all over the globe. March 4, 2015 she dropped from Island Records, and currently working on a new album. Last July 2, 2015 she released her third single entitled “Shrug”.

http://laurenceourac.com/the-voice-of-christina-grimmie-from-youtube-to-world-stage/ 

Vance Joy joining Paper Towns soundtrack

Veering away from his acoustic rock sound, Aussie charmer Vance Joy will appear on one of the most anticipated romantic movie Paper Towns. His voice will grace the romantic movie with the song ‘Greatest Summer.’ The movie stars, super model turned actress Cara Delevigne and is written by none other than Fault in our Stars author John Green.

Joy’s Greatest Summer depicts the gist of this teen movie plot. The line ‘The kid you used to be. Well, I know that you’re still there. I hope you had a great summer. A great summer away.’ describes the phase lead role Quentin played by Nat Wolf when he had a chance to get close to Margo played by Delevigne. Repeated ‘Why’d I let you go’ seemed to describe Quentin’s emotions while in the venture of finding Margo when the latter mysteriously disappeared after doing a series of pranks to her cheating ex boyfriend.

Joy sang alongside other artists including the breakthrough band Saint Motel, Santigold, Vampire Weekend and Haim in giving added life to this another John Green masterpiece as they lent their voices for an amplified feel of love, adventure, losing and finding. The complete soundtrack itself is nothing but an ideal summer playlist worth singing with all throughout the bright sunny weather.

Born James Keogh, the Aussie singer’s screen name Vance Joy came from a character novel in ‘Bliss’ written by Peter Carey. His intention is to draw a line between his personal and professional life. Before getting fully into music, Vance Joy was a law student. He decided to give music full time and parked law school on the side. He signed up for Altlantic Music and not long after, he began doing international shows and did gigs alongside famous artists like Taylor Swift. His Debut album named ‘Dream Your Life Away’ was released in 2014 and even managed to enter billboard 200 charting number 17 as his highest peak so far.

http://laurenceourac.com/vance-joy-joining-paper-towns-soundtrack/

Kimbra and Beyond Her Goldmine Video

There’s more to her than being just the collaborative voice in the Grammy Award-winning song Somebody That I Used to Know with one-hit wonder Gotye. At a young age of 25, this singer, spawned by the calm bloodline of New Zealand, has been a relevant artist in the general music scene due to her successful infusion of genres ranging from indie pop and rock, alternative, dance, R&B, electro pop and jazz.

What sets her apart from other seemingly talented artists of this generation is the sheer sense of the absurd being emanated from her voice, bodily gestures and the sharp look on her eyes. Some music critics even have compared her to Bjork and Enya because of her intrinsic approach in belting out chilling renditions of tones and overall musicality. Born as Kimbra Lee Johnson, or infamously known as Kimbra, she is surely here to stay for as long as she wants because of her innate talent in making music all the more exciting to hear.

Kimbra have two albums on her belt, namely vows (released in 2011) and The Golden Echo (released and marketed in 2014). Vows can be remembered through the smash hits Settle Down and Cameo Role, both of which received fairly positive feedback from the targeted audience and specific music trend analysts. Kimbra started to pan out her fan base from her mother country New Zealand and stretched it through Australia.

Kimbra, together with Gotye, won Record of the Year for “Somebody That I Used to Know” in 2013, which pretty much fueled up Kimbra’s drive into dominating the world music stage and stepped out of her comfort zone. The Golden Echo had been Kimbra’s follow up on her Grammy’s success and she never knew what failure meant. Mostly collaborations from well-renowned music personalities like Daniel Johns, Taylor Graves, Matt Bellamy, Mark Foster and John Legend, this second endeavor into sealing her name as a relevant artist have paid off and put her into the pedestal of the artists you shouldn’t miss to listen to.

At present, Kimbra continued to craft good music for the benefit of her salivating fan base and even toured the United States with five incredible shows. Kimbra have been known to be an artist that you must collaborate with and so just recently, Bilal’s track Holding You Back is another display of how Kimbra does well with music connivances.

Not long before numerous takes into the world of duets, Kimbra went back into pleasing the crowd with her latest music video Goldmine, shot in the right place which is in a Berlin factory, all with Kimbra’s esoteric-pegged thoughts. This music video has been a hit in YouTube, earning megalomania of 11,000 views in just a day after release. As what the title says, the music video’s focal point is an abstract-like a short film, which stresses out gold set out in an almost black and white backdrop.

Kimbra had ensured that this music video will be brimming with metaphor and so when she worked with fellow Kiwis Chester Travis and Timothy Armstrong on the production; she specifically stated that ‘inner wealth’ should be clearly seen by viewers. With lyrics that says “Cause I got a goldmine, it’s all mine. Nobody can touch this gold of mine, I got a goldmine, it’s all mine…,” it will be no surprise that this can take part on your Last Song Syndrome list.

http://laurenceourac.com/kimbra-and-beyond-her-goldmine-video/

Two necks are better than one

No matter how hard and complicated that thing is, many individuals managed to have fun with it. Known today as double neck guitar, it is a cool yet complex instrument used by musicians nowadays and even from the past.

It’s a build-and-customized-it-yourself item in which you can choose what to have in each neck, whether you like it a fretless top and a bass on lower necks or vice versa. Some guitarist depends it on what piece they are going to play. The early double neck guitar, known as the Schrammel guitar of the 1850’s, has a fretted top neck with six strings and a fretless lower neck with nine strings and above.

Most rock bands owned one for a multi-functional play and rhythm. No need for an extra hand for an extra sound and beat. With this guitar, two hands can play two sounds and beat without consuming much time to change guitars. In this case, agility, flexibility, smooth motion and other factors were needed to play it perfectly or well. Some guitar players customize their guitars in a way they place the strings in different positions (for example is the bass guitar) for ease.

If thinking of playing a double neck guitar is cool, how much more to know that there is a four-neck guitar? Awesome, right? Three-neck and other more-than-one-neck guitars do exist in electric, acoustic and hybrid versions, while others have necks of guitar and a harp, an octave and even a violin. This complex guitar has gained recognition and is now widely used.

Dating from the Renaissance period, multi-neck guitars along with lutes were used for entertainment and occasions. This instrument existed long before it was used by the Guns and Roses and other bands for their finger-picking plucking moves and head-banging, adrenalized music.

http://laurenceourac.com/two-necks-are-better-than-one/

Seinabo Sey way to spotlight and her latest single “Pretend”

Seinabo Sey is your undiscovered gem paving her career from a Sweden and Gambian descent. As a singer and a songwriter, she was already exposed to art and music at an early age. She’s already a fan of music at an age of nine with Alicia Keys and Beyonce lead her lists of favorite musicians.

Yet, who could have been the real influence on her inclination towards music is her father. Maudo Sey is a well-known musician in The Gambia and Senegal in West Africa, and it is no doubt the genes and interest in music did not skip Seinabo Sey.

With her debut single, “Younger,” Seinabo Sey broke through the surface of music in her country. It received a warm reception with Kygo, a Norwegian musician, remixing the track called “Younger (Kygo Remix).” After it was released in the US, the track peaked a spot at the US Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs.

It cleared the path for Seinabo Sey to release a stream of singles until had her first EP dedicated to her mom, For Madeleine.

Despite being released two years ago, “Younger” only received wide recognition; consequently, acting as a platform to raise her popularity and career success. She is yet to debut a full-length album, but she already has another EP dedicated to her father, For Maudo.

It isn’t the end of her busy days, though. Seinabo Sey is gearing up for her debut album and she released “Pretend” to give the listeners a glimpse of what is to come.

“Pretend” is an uplifting track with the Swedish artist singing, “I turned out as great as they could; knock on wood/ Things are going just as they should; knock on wood,” in the tune of funk, electronic melody.

The music video of the track embodies the song featuring her friends grooving their way into a fun night and shaking out of the troubles the days had brought. A piece of well-crafted pop music, we are waiting for it on the 4th of September.

http://laurenceourac.com/seinabo-sey-way-to-spotlight-and-her-latest-single-pretend/