Ellie Goulding has been tearing up the music scene for years now, more noticeably with her collaborations to lend her vocals on tracks with Calvin Harris. As explained before on this blog, Ellie knows how to put a great live show, and well her past music has not disappointed.
Ellie is known for her sultry voice, upbeat music due to her mutual love and respect for electronic dance music, plus her well written songs. From the music to the vocals to round out each song, Ellie has found the perfect formula to keep and grow her fan base.
This brings us to her latest album release "Delirum" that of course entails the popular song from "The Fifty Shades of Grey" movie soundtrack "Love Me Like You Do" as well her smash hit with Calvin Harris "Outside". These inclusions add to the 'Deluxe' edition that has 22 tracks in total. Thus, not sure why you would not listen to every track on the album.
Let's begin with "Aftertaste", "Something In The Way You Move", & "Keep On Dancin'" all of which fall after the album intro "Delirum". Each song is upbeat with great lyrics, vocals, and great musicianship. You should recognize "On My Mind" from radio, TV spots, and plays out in society. This song has been gaining it's way up the Billboard charts for weeks now, and probably will stay there with more promotion. Should mention if you aren't dancin' to "Keep On Dancin'", then you have some sort of issue. Obviously this song is infused with EDM (Electronic Dance Music) influences.
"Around U" and "Codes" are upbeat great story teller songs, but "Holding On For Life" has elements of Gospel and Folk genres that add to the eclectic mix of the album. "Don't Need Nobody" encompasses many genres from EDM, Funk, R&B, & Rock. To conclude, highly suggest to take a listen or two to this album, support Ellie on tour, and marvel in a talented women in the music business!
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Album Review: "Unbreakable" by Janet Jackson
Just in case you haven't been paying attention this year, another music icon has released a new album and is currently touring to support this album as well as all of the former hits. That icon would be Janet Jackson. There may have been claims over the years that Janet followed in her brother's footsteps, but if you have any musical awareness whatsoever, then you would know that this woman has set herself apart in many ways.
This brings us to the review of her latest album "Unbreakable", which fittingly begins with the song "Unbreakable" where Janet sings lyrics about a great love and connection she has learned to embrace over the years to a great R&B/Funk vibe. The next song is a collaboration with hip/hop icon herself Missy Elliot "BURNITUP!" that immediately starts with a catchy vibe on its own as well as rhymes from Missy. This song will sure to get plays at clubs, parties, and road trips alike. What Missy Elliot has done for the music business will be kept for a separate post. The next song is "Dammn Baby", and well if you like great R&B musicality mixed with Janet's vocals you will be shaking your head along to this song; oh, don't discount the breakdown of the song for a change of pace.
Next song is "The Great Forever" that begins with funky electronic vibe with a lyrics and vocals from Ms. Jackson that provide great story telling. Just listen. The following songs "Shoulda Known Better", "After You Fall", "Broken Hearts Heal", "Night", "No Sleeep" featuring J.Cole, and "Dream Maker/Euphoria" provide a narrative to the album along with remaining songs on the album.
As you listen to this album from the first track to the last one, you will notice that the adoption of electronic music has been adopted by Janet and her producers. Electronic Dance Music is not considered a underground genre anymore, thus lending to the R&B, Funk, Rock, Classical undertones that has always been associated with Janet Jackson throughout her illustrious career. This album deserves to be bought, but if you are the streaming type, check it out on Spotify, then add the album to your collection. It's clear that Ms. Jackson took some time to live life, observe music, and put a labor of love into this album since it's been since 2008 for a new album.
This brings us to the review of her latest album "Unbreakable", which fittingly begins with the song "Unbreakable" where Janet sings lyrics about a great love and connection she has learned to embrace over the years to a great R&B/Funk vibe. The next song is a collaboration with hip/hop icon herself Missy Elliot "BURNITUP!" that immediately starts with a catchy vibe on its own as well as rhymes from Missy. This song will sure to get plays at clubs, parties, and road trips alike. What Missy Elliot has done for the music business will be kept for a separate post. The next song is "Dammn Baby", and well if you like great R&B musicality mixed with Janet's vocals you will be shaking your head along to this song; oh, don't discount the breakdown of the song for a change of pace.
Next song is "The Great Forever" that begins with funky electronic vibe with a lyrics and vocals from Ms. Jackson that provide great story telling. Just listen. The following songs "Shoulda Known Better", "After You Fall", "Broken Hearts Heal", "Night", "No Sleeep" featuring J.Cole, and "Dream Maker/Euphoria" provide a narrative to the album along with remaining songs on the album.
As you listen to this album from the first track to the last one, you will notice that the adoption of electronic music has been adopted by Janet and her producers. Electronic Dance Music is not considered a underground genre anymore, thus lending to the R&B, Funk, Rock, Classical undertones that has always been associated with Janet Jackson throughout her illustrious career. This album deserves to be bought, but if you are the streaming type, check it out on Spotify, then add the album to your collection. It's clear that Ms. Jackson took some time to live life, observe music, and put a labor of love into this album since it's been since 2008 for a new album.
Saturday, October 3, 2015
The Package Tour 2013-NKOTB, Boyz II Men, & 98 Degrees
Decided to delete an old blog started almost 8 years ago. Instead of deleting all posts, I will post many that were needed at different points of my life. Enjoy!
Originally posted June 17, 2013
Hello. How are you? Yep, it's been awhile. Life is busy. For those who keep track of my statements via social media, I had this plan of cruising with NKOTB and my fellow Blockheads. Yeah, that didn't go as plan. Thus, as The Package Tour approached I got the fever, and really the ONLY prescription was to go. I have had so many good times with my fellow Blockheads, and I wanted to keep my "traditions" going. One of these days, I will see Dave Matthews Band and others in concert. Despite having the fever, I really wasn't stressing out about buying tickets. Why? Well, it is normal for Blockheads to over buy tickets of any form. It was inevitable that as shows approached and friends, family or others backed out, tickets would become available. In case you are new, I haven't ever done a 5* (Meet & Greet) for a show. Mainly because the specific package sold out so quickly, and I had never seen the point. Well, there is a first time for everything. While trying to find tickets as plans changed daily, 5* from people became available. I decided that I should try what everybody who has experienced one or many find so great. Not to mention I had only planned on the Las Vegas & Phoenix shows. I appreciate every experience I get when it comes to NKOTB. You can say I continue to grow as a person. It isn't so much about the concert or event as it is hanging out with people who "GET IT". After talking to people selling 5*, it was established that I was finally going to do this. I found groups to join. Honestly, I could care less who I stand with, as long as I had the chance to hug every member and say a few words. I don't get star struck, so I leading up to the day, & majority of the day I was completely calm. Just taking in the experience, such as completing the group. It was nice that there wasn't any drama about spots, and people just filled the spots we needed last minute. I have heard horror story after horror story. Blockheads need to chill. I know we all have a favorite, but GEEZ. I must repeat what I have said in other blog entries about looking at New Kids on the Block as GUYS. Yes, they are human. The experience is what you make it. Upon lining up in the order of how NKOTB was standing, the 5* went as planned. Danny Wood is an absolute sweetheart. Mister asked us how were were doing, if we were enjoying ourselves, and a short conversation about Big Dan Wood. Thanks for hug Jordan (Buddy). Then came Donnie (Big Papa). Upon receiving my hug, I said "What's up Big Papa? I am saxy15 on Twitter." To which he replied, "Oh, I know who you are, and you are cool one." Then I went for a hug from Joe. I asked him if he remembered the banner I gave him from his "One Too Many at Midnight" run at The Palms Lounge. Special paused, then said, "Oh, I remember you," followed by another hug. Last, but certainly not least Jon (Dude) was next. He gave me a hug then said," Thanks for coming again." Hilarious considering it was my first time meeting him. Perhaps he's used to seeing people over and over. ;-) All in all, a great first experience.
The following week was my local show. Yes, the Phoenix (technically Glendale), but I digress. Upon talking to seller(s) of 5*, I was all set to have one for Sunday. Or so I thought. After a morning of hanging out with fellow Blockheads and brunch, I contacted the person I was buying it from to give her the money. I wanted her to know I was good for it. I proceeded to go to another Blockhead meet up at the Yard House to see and meet everybody I could. While chilling at the table, I received texts from the seller about not being comfortable with me giving her a check. I proceeded to ask her if she would reconsider if I gave her cash. Freaking ATM fees. The time to check in for 5* arrives. She is nowhere to be found. I began texting her, trying to call her. She kept responding with I can't get out of line, and other excuses. Umm, when I see you hours before and tell you the plan of exchange, just be straight up. I even got permission from VIP Nation to go down to the room to get everything from her, but I am PRETTY sure she ducked into the restroom. Just FUCKING say you are going to take it. I figured it out, and I can take it.
Needless to say, I had a plan B. I don't trust people just as much. I had a floor seat available. Which was my plan A at one point. I am too practical, and OCD about planning things. I HATE stressing out before fun. I ended up front row barricade again with this ticket. I didn't get to share Big Papa with a friend, but I knew I had the after party still. After checking in to the after party. I joined a group. Despite "special guests", I went straight for Big Papa. I have been drawn to that man since I was 3 years old. Standing next to Wanya from Boyz II Men as I was holding the rose he gave me wasn't bad either.
Originally posted June 17, 2013
Hello. How are you? Yep, it's been awhile. Life is busy. For those who keep track of my statements via social media, I had this plan of cruising with NKOTB and my fellow Blockheads. Yeah, that didn't go as plan. Thus, as The Package Tour approached I got the fever, and really the ONLY prescription was to go. I have had so many good times with my fellow Blockheads, and I wanted to keep my "traditions" going. One of these days, I will see Dave Matthews Band and others in concert. Despite having the fever, I really wasn't stressing out about buying tickets. Why? Well, it is normal for Blockheads to over buy tickets of any form. It was inevitable that as shows approached and friends, family or others backed out, tickets would become available. In case you are new, I haven't ever done a 5* (Meet & Greet) for a show. Mainly because the specific package sold out so quickly, and I had never seen the point. Well, there is a first time for everything. While trying to find tickets as plans changed daily, 5* from people became available. I decided that I should try what everybody who has experienced one or many find so great. Not to mention I had only planned on the Las Vegas & Phoenix shows. I appreciate every experience I get when it comes to NKOTB. You can say I continue to grow as a person. It isn't so much about the concert or event as it is hanging out with people who "GET IT". After talking to people selling 5*, it was established that I was finally going to do this. I found groups to join. Honestly, I could care less who I stand with, as long as I had the chance to hug every member and say a few words. I don't get star struck, so I leading up to the day, & majority of the day I was completely calm. Just taking in the experience, such as completing the group. It was nice that there wasn't any drama about spots, and people just filled the spots we needed last minute. I have heard horror story after horror story. Blockheads need to chill. I know we all have a favorite, but GEEZ. I must repeat what I have said in other blog entries about looking at New Kids on the Block as GUYS. Yes, they are human. The experience is what you make it. Upon lining up in the order of how NKOTB was standing, the 5* went as planned. Danny Wood is an absolute sweetheart. Mister asked us how were were doing, if we were enjoying ourselves, and a short conversation about Big Dan Wood. Thanks for hug Jordan (Buddy). Then came Donnie (Big Papa). Upon receiving my hug, I said "What's up Big Papa? I am saxy15 on Twitter." To which he replied, "Oh, I know who you are, and you are cool one." Then I went for a hug from Joe. I asked him if he remembered the banner I gave him from his "One Too Many at Midnight" run at The Palms Lounge. Special paused, then said, "Oh, I remember you," followed by another hug. Last, but certainly not least Jon (Dude) was next. He gave me a hug then said," Thanks for coming again." Hilarious considering it was my first time meeting him. Perhaps he's used to seeing people over and over. ;-) All in all, a great first experience.
I would have to say my favorite moment other than just partying with everybody would be when Big Papa handed me his mic during "This Is How We Do It" by Montell Jordan for me to sing; since I knew the lyrics. Having him look directly in my eyes as I was "singing" will forever be a memory. I then proceeded to hand the mic back, but he looked surprised. You are the host man, I didn't want to take over. ;-)
As much as I try to quit these guys, I just can't. The shenanigans with friends as well as the overall events just get better and better.
Thursday, August 27, 2015
L*A*W TALKS TO THE FANS
Greetings Earthlings
This is truly a state of emergency for you Planet 12 fans
As most of you know, I'm currently in the process of finishing up my "Psychotic Chameleon" album & I truly need the fans to start showing up & showing out more on the social media side. I'm not seeing enough presence & I know we can do better. Life does not revolve around me in no fashion, shape or form but this is an investment in your love for music especially mine
I only have a staff of 5 when it comes to handling Planet 12 business so it's truly gonna take the love and support of all of you on high volumes to achieve what I believe can be a major success for this next album because I'm planning a bigger promo campaign for this one than I did when I put out the 1st album so it's truly gonna take strong visibility of the fans showing up, re-tweeting, liking, talking, using the hashtags, downloading and especially purchasing. Even putting L*A*W or Planet 12 in your Twitter or IG bios help too. I just learned that some of you who claim to be Planet 12 fans haven't even purchased the 1st 2 albums. How that's gonna look if a music exec or just an inquiring potential fan coming to you and asking you what's your favorite song & YOU DON'T EVEN HAVE THE ALBUM. Not being pushy or hasty but We can't win unless the support is there. We accomplished a lot but we still have so much to prove even more now so again, constant support is needed....I go hard for y'all and I do expect that in return because when the smoke clears, you all are gonna be the proud ones to say "WE WERE HERE SINCE IT STARTED"....it's your stories that's gonna make the difference in serving notice to an industry that does NOT support indie music. Ask NKOTB & Johnny Gill who put out great albums that would have never gotten noticed if it wasn't for us supporting them since they are no longer on the major labels. Tyrese just recently went #1 on the top 200 Billboard charts with a real R&B on his independent label so again I say.....IT'S POSSIBLE IF WE WORK TOGETHER AND DO WHAT IT TAKES
If it's a movement, we have to act like it & treat as such. For us artists, there are 4 quarters in which we have up until the 2nd week of December to be effective before the industry shuts down so I'm trying to make 5 months count so again I humbly ask.....LET'S GO EVEN HARDER AND SEE WHAT WE CAN DO ESPECIALLY BEFORE I LEAVE FOR LONDON
If it's a movement, we have to act like it & treat as such. For us artists, there are 4 quarters in which we have up until the 2nd week of December to be effective before the industry shuts down so I'm trying to make 5 months count so again I humbly ask.....LET'S GO EVEN HARDER AND SEE WHAT WE CAN DO ESPECIALLY BEFORE I LEAVE FOR LONDON
THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH AND I LOVE YOU ALL
THERE IS NO ME WITHOUT YOU SO LET'S GO HARDER TO GET BETTER
L*A*W....THE MOST TALENTED KID IN THE MUSIC BIZ
#Planet12
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Concert Review: 'Heart & Soul Tour' featuring Earth, Wind, & Fire & Chicago
When you talk about longevity in the music business, you might think of Paul McCartney or the Rolling Stones, but in my case Earth, Wind, & Fire & Chicago define that word. They have been touring, and creating music for more than 45 years! Yes, that is close to 20 more years than I have been on this Earth.
Let's get in to the 'Heart & Sour Tour' shall we? So due to popular demand from the prior 4 tours from these two bands, another one was born. The amount of hit songs each band has produced over their 45 year career, was probably enough to get fans to buy a ticket to a date, but from previous experience of attending prior tours, it was to be enjoyed.
The concert began with a brief, but awesome trip down memory lane of their hits over the years. Then both bands came out swinging with a collaborative opening of songs from both bands. Upon that, Earth, Wind, & Fire began their set of favorite hits spanning their career. Despite the age of Philip Bailey, Maurice White, and Verdine White, the show they put on with other younger members is something to rival the newest of act out there today. Legitimate musicianship and vocals from great bands just adds to a great show. Chicago followed suit after a brief intermission to keep the show going.
The best part of the concert was the finale of both bands playing their most popular hits. Everybody FINALLY stood up to enjoy the music. Yes, I don't agree with the behavior of the crowd when the band is older and putting on a great show. Get up, dance, sing along, and enjoy a concert or don't ruin it for others. We ALL pay for tickets!
Enjoying these two bands with my mother was an added bonus knowing how much she adores both bands. If you ever have the chance to catch a show on this tour or any future tours, it's HIGHLY recommended!
Let's get in to the 'Heart & Sour Tour' shall we? So due to popular demand from the prior 4 tours from these two bands, another one was born. The amount of hit songs each band has produced over their 45 year career, was probably enough to get fans to buy a ticket to a date, but from previous experience of attending prior tours, it was to be enjoyed.
The concert began with a brief, but awesome trip down memory lane of their hits over the years. Then both bands came out swinging with a collaborative opening of songs from both bands. Upon that, Earth, Wind, & Fire began their set of favorite hits spanning their career. Despite the age of Philip Bailey, Maurice White, and Verdine White, the show they put on with other younger members is something to rival the newest of act out there today. Legitimate musicianship and vocals from great bands just adds to a great show. Chicago followed suit after a brief intermission to keep the show going.
The best part of the concert was the finale of both bands playing their most popular hits. Everybody FINALLY stood up to enjoy the music. Yes, I don't agree with the behavior of the crowd when the band is older and putting on a great show. Get up, dance, sing along, and enjoy a concert or don't ruin it for others. We ALL pay for tickets!
Enjoying these two bands with my mother was an added bonus knowing how much she adores both bands. If you ever have the chance to catch a show on this tour or any future tours, it's HIGHLY recommended!
Sunday, June 21, 2015
Album Review: " Hollywood: A Story of a Dozen Roses" by Jaime Foxx
When most people think of Jamie Foxx, they look at him as a great comedian, actor, & impressionist. However, the man is a classically trained pianist, and singer. Jamie Foxx has had a few hit songs and albums over the years. So it's time to call him a musician as well.
After hearing, seeing appearances on talk shows, I knew I had to review his latest album, "Hollywood: A Story of a Dozen Roses". Jamie's ability to collaboration with other popular artists is not forgotten on this album. The song "You Changed Me" features Chris Brown. The only gripe with this album right off the bat is the use of the N word lyrically. R&B music shouldn't be alienated as "Black Music" anymore, thus the use of this language set us back as a society.
"Like a Drum" features rapper Wale, and aside from the beat and music, the song is a amateur lyrically. "Another Dose" is much better with the vocals by Foxx as well lyrically, it also has a great R&B beat. This song makes you wonder why the collaborations thus far aren't really that good. Then comes the collaboration with Pharrell Williams "Tease" and you are instantly dancing along.
It's clear why the first single off of the album is "Baby's in Love" featuring Kid Ink. It has an infectious beat, killer vocals by Foxx, and Kid Ink adds a flare to the song you would expect. "Text Message", "Hollywood", "Vegas Confessions", "Socialite", all tell person stories along with great beats and music composed by Jaime. It's clear that this album is a way for Jamie to get many things off his chest about life, love, and being a celebrity.
"Dozen Roses" interludes add to the album, but that's about it. "In Love by Now" tells a heartbreaking tale of being single in the public eye as well raising a daughter. "Jumping Out the Window" displays Foxx's skills at the piano as well as a songwriter. "On the Dot" features Fabulous, and is also has an infectious beat to dance to. Take a listen to "Right Now", "Pretty Thing", & "Ain't My Fault" to round out the album as the you might hear homage to Michael Jackson, as well as other in the R&B music game.
Overall, it's a good album, but I expected it to better. Then again the competition in the music industry these days, and need to stay relevant.
Saturday, May 16, 2015
Concert Review: #TheMainEvent Nelly, TLC, & New Kids on the Block
For the past 7 years, New Kids on the Block has been touring, and along with that trying to figure out how to make their shows unique and entertaining. Who can forget the NKOTBSB tour? Most thought a Boyband Palooza was going to come out of that, yet it did not happen.
So when #TheMainEvent tour was announced with tour mates Nelly and TLC, many were just as excited to get tickets like #ThePackageTour with Boyz II Men and 98 Degrees brought in 2013. The questions of whether or not fans of each artist would get a long or if the idea was too weird to wrap a head around weren't asked this time around.
The theme of a huge Boxing match granted the tour started the day before the Mayweather vs. Pacquiao fight in Las Vegas was very clever. Or was that a coincidence? It was nice to see Nelly play all of his hits to bring the nostalgia of his entire career to life on stage with little theatrics. From the first album "Country Grammar" to the latest album, plus a couple other songs to keep the crowd hyped worked to Nelly & company's advantage.
Despite missing the late Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopez, TLC and dancers didn't disappoint by performing their hits well. From "What About Your Friends" to "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" to "No Scrubs" and the tribute to their lost member with "Waterfalls" there set was a blast from the past! Remember TLC is still considered the most successful Female group of all time to many.
The boxing theme was alive and well for the entrance of New Kids on the Block after a great music video by Danny Wood, and cheesy commercial from Donnie Wahlberg from the "Blue Bloods" set. Then "Block Party" (released along with the 2013 album "10") to set the tone for the fun to come during their set. Highly suggest night a fun by buying a ticket to this tour. Check it out for yourself!
So when #TheMainEvent tour was announced with tour mates Nelly and TLC, many were just as excited to get tickets like #ThePackageTour with Boyz II Men and 98 Degrees brought in 2013. The questions of whether or not fans of each artist would get a long or if the idea was too weird to wrap a head around weren't asked this time around.
The theme of a huge Boxing match granted the tour started the day before the Mayweather vs. Pacquiao fight in Las Vegas was very clever. Or was that a coincidence? It was nice to see Nelly play all of his hits to bring the nostalgia of his entire career to life on stage with little theatrics. From the first album "Country Grammar" to the latest album, plus a couple other songs to keep the crowd hyped worked to Nelly & company's advantage.
Despite missing the late Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopez, TLC and dancers didn't disappoint by performing their hits well. From "What About Your Friends" to "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" to "No Scrubs" and the tribute to their lost member with "Waterfalls" there set was a blast from the past! Remember TLC is still considered the most successful Female group of all time to many.
The boxing theme was alive and well for the entrance of New Kids on the Block after a great music video by Danny Wood, and cheesy commercial from Donnie Wahlberg from the "Blue Bloods" set. Then "Block Party" (released along with the 2013 album "10") to set the tone for the fun to come during their set. Highly suggest night a fun by buying a ticket to this tour. Check it out for yourself!
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