Ever since I was a child, I've always enjoyed music. It was not until my senior year in High School, that I wanted to be creative. I've always wanted to counter what was on the radio, or what was considered popular music. Unfortunately, many talented artist, don’t get to see the light of day, in regards to exposure. However, the internet has given a great path to artist like myself. It allows us to stay creative with our vision and reach potentially millions of people.
I’ve put out five albums since 2000. I treat my releases as a time capsule to my past. The lyrics and the arrangements showed what influenced me, musically, socially and politically at the time. My current EP Stand A Little Taller, has evolved into a mature, lyrically driven, multi-genre with a pop aesthetic feel. I never planned for the EP to sound this way. It just came out naturally. By being independent, I can do what I want.
It's the month of March in the year 2015 and pop icon Madonna has a released a new album titled "Rebel Heart". Let's talk about this album as well as the legacy Madonna will leave.
The first track on the album titled "Living For Love" is the first single off of the album as seen by performances on this year's Grammy's and BRIT Awards. If you have been paying attention to Madonna in recent years, or perhaps her entire career, you will notice that Madonna marvels in telling stories and addressing issues lyrically that may be avoided by others. The beauty of a song by her are the melodies that will in turn make the song appealing to the masses. Madonna's adaptation to the EDM (Electronic Dance Music) scene has been a good move. Some EDM purists may not like the inclusion, but Madonna's vocals and lyrics add grace to a track meant to bring people to a dance floor.
The second and third tracks on the album "Devil Pray" and "Ghosttown" share emotions that all of us can relate to in life. These tracks are more tied to the Pop genre rather than an upbeat dance track, but should not receive any lack of recognition. As Madonna has called herself an "Unapologetic Bitch" many a time, the fourth tract with a Reggae vibe with the familiar vocals by Madonna will probably turn into an anthem for feminism. Upon first listen of this song, you may find yourself dancing along.
"Illumanati" the fifth track begins with a list of other popular artists laced with electronic beats that vary in tempo keeping you listening. This applies for the next track "Bitch-I'm Madonna (feat. Nicki Minaj)". It's clear the choice to collaborate with famed DJ and Producer Diplo was the best thing for this album. However, it's not the first time these two have joined forces, with appearances at music festivals and the like.
Your challenge is to listen to the album in entirety, (try Spotify for Free). Each track belongs on the album, and remember Madonna is not known for her voice, but her message that addresses what others miss. Forget her age, and marvel in her ability to evolve right along with music. Perhaps in years to come we will see Madonna not only as an Pop Icon, but also a Evolutionary Artist. Remember Madonna is the most successful female artist of all time!
If you are a music enthusiast, you may have heard of this 10 part A Capella group from Indiana. If you the music novice you probably have not considering the genre of music is not as popular as it once was, and well as it should be now.
Straight No Chaser began at Indian University in 1996 breaking off from a bigger choir to 10 guys to basically sing for girls and food as they tell their story. Just like any group formed in college, they all graduated, went on to do other things, keep the legacy group at the IU, and well lived life. When the 10 year reunion rolled around, one of their founding members Randy Stine uploaded a video to YouTube for them to reminisce.
This upload went VIRAL, and the president of Atlantic Records sent a message to get the gang back together as they would be needed to sign a record deal. Speaking as a Chaser (fan of SNC), their appeal isn't just limited to their RAW TALENT, it's also attributed to their sense of humor.
This brings me to the records, albums, lists of songs, or whatever the kids use these days. They began as a group that does holiday songs, but is also known for their covers of pop songs that you know and love. Their "Straight No Chaser Twist" is just what is needed to a group that not only loves music, but loves to have fun as well. It's translated in their performances throughout their many tours that they have had up until now. This is where you are highly urged to check out "Christmas Cheers", "With A Twist", "Six Pack", "Six Pack Vol. 2", "Holiday Spirits", "Under The Influence", & "Under The Influence: Holiday Edition".