4 Songs I'm Embarrassed To Admit I Like! (IMED 1359.001 Post #13)

1. "Love is A Battlefield" by Pat Benatar - this 80s rock/pop anthem is so amazing! When it comes on, I can't help but pump my fist and act like a misunderstood, grungy teenager filled with angst.

2. "He Said, She Said" by Ashley Tisdale - Disney alumni, Ashley Tisdale wasn't really taken seriously as a vocalist or an artist (unfortunately), but this song is great when you're getting ready for a night out, or just riding in the car. Trust me - I've tried both.

3. "You Belong With Me" by Taylor Swift - this song is super relatable and catchy, and I always catch myself belting out the lyrics whenever it comes on. People have their issues with Taylor Swift, but one thing that girl knows how to do is write one hell of a song. I'd also like to take this time to say congrats to her on releasing the only album to go platinum (sell one million copies) this year!

4. "Breaking Free" by the High School Musical Cast - Honestly, the 'High School Musical' franchise in itself is probably my biggest guilty pleasure of all. I own the soundtracks to the first two films (I refused to buy the third), and consider this a huge part of my adolescence. But this song in particular is such an amazing way to end the first soundtrack.

I feel like we all have our musical guilty pleasures and this week, I've decided to share mine. I'd love to hear yours as well (if you're brave enough to share)!

Chrisette Michele Connoisseur! (IMED 1359.001 Post #12)

When I think of Chrisette Michele, a few things come to mind - Grammy-award winning singer (my favorite singer), New York native (my favorite singer), self-proclaimed “rich hipster,” and reality star. Oh, and did I mention she’s my favorite singer? She got her start in 2007 with the release of her debut album, “I Am,” and even snagged the Best Urban/Alternative Performance Grammy for her single “Be OK” featuring will.i.am (which is not too shabby for your first project). Shortly following her debut, Chrisette released her sophomore album, “Epiphany,” which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. Now, 7 years and 5 albums later, Chrisette is gearing up to release her sixth album, “The Lyricists’ Opus” (just a little over a year after her last project, “Better”). In honor of the release, this week I’ve decided to give one song recommendation per Chrisette album.

"Good Girl" - From the “I Am” album, this sassy anthem encourages women to love a man for the right reasons. Chrisette proudly proclaims that she’s a “good girl,” and doesn’t need a man to validate her. In my opinion, this song should have been a single (because it’s so darn catchy and clever), but this record was definitely the stand out track on this album. 

"Mr. Right" - From her number one sophomore album, “Epiphany,” this song talks about meeting your match in a man. It explores finding a man who is the perfect mix of nice and edgy. So much so, that he’s “got you weak...with one touch.” 

"I Don’t Know Why, But I Do" - A beautiful ballad about an indescribable love, this song is a simple declaration - yes, I love you. I don’t know why, but I do. The lyrical content of this song is what really drew me to it. At one point in the song, the jazz-influenced songbird sings “it’s hard for me to justified what love can’t be defined.”

"You Mean That Much To Me" - This beautifully executed song talks about going to the ends of the earth to prove how deep your love goes. What made this song the stand out track on her album, “Better” was the fact that she really showcases her vocal prowess, in addition to some great lyrical content. 

For more, visit Chrisette Michele’s new website richhipster.biz where you can not only get a glimpse into who she is as a person, but hear her new single, “Super Chris.” 

#ThrowbackThursday: Tamar Braxton's "Love and War" - don't call it a comeback! (IMED 1359.001 Post #11)

In honor of the fact that I’m writing yet another post on a Thursday, I’m going to do another #ThrowbackThursday review of one of my favorite albums of the past. This week, I’ve decided to review some of my favorite tracks from Tamar Braxton’s highly anticipated sophomore album “Love and War.” Tamar Braxton has made a pretty seamless transition from background singer to her superstar sister, Toni Braxton, to a career and success of her own. She makes it no secret that her being able to live out her dreams is attributed to the success of two hit reality shows (“Braxton Family Values,” “Tamar&Vince”). From there, she went on to release her sophomore album, which debuted at number two on the Hot 200. Her album’s greatness didn’t surprise me, however, because one thing Tamar can do is sing. 

“The One” - serving as the second single to the project, this song just evokes a great feeling. This record talks about how once you’ve found the one, nothing else matters. There’s no greater feeling than knowing the person you love not only feels the same way about you, but has your back. The song samples, which adds a bit of hip-hop flare. 

“All The Way Home” - serving as the third single to the project, this song explores feelings after an argument with your significant other. In this beautiful, heart-felt ballad, Tamar croons about having to leave to let off some steam. On her way back, she’s thinking about her man the whole way. This track stands out simply because Tamar’s vocal delivery is immaculate. 

“She Did That” - this record gives you a little break from the R&B ballads, and makes you tap your foot a bit. This swagger anthem is Tamar’s flashy record where she flaunts a bit. This song is definitely suitable for dancing. 

“Pieces” - another ballad, this song talks about wanting a person as a whole. You don’t want a little bit, you want them to commit whole-heartedly. This is another stand out track for me because Tamar showcases her vocal prowess. 

Like what you've heard? Check out Tamar's new single, "Let Me Know" now! 

Spotify and Pandora saved my life! (IMED 1359.001 Post #10)

This week, I had absolutely no time to sit and listen to a new album to review. I was helping my mother move all week, and (to put it simply) let it slip my mind. I did, however listen to a lot of Pandora and Spotify while packing to help pass the time - they saved my life this week! Pandora and Spotify are similar in many ways, but they're also very different. Pandora, for example, allows you to choose and artist, create a station for that particular artist, and it generates a playlist based on your musical interests.

Spotify, on the other hand allows you to choose a playlist based on your mood, and also gives you a list of all the albums, depending on which artist you choose. If you pay for Spotify monthly, you're even able to choose to play whatever song you want (if they have it available). Cool, huh? I hoped this helped a lot of you.

Here's a list of some other websites that allow you to stream music:

• iTunes Radio - exclusively for iPhone users. 
• Jango - website with ad-free listening. 
• Last.fm 
• Rhapsody
• Slacker 
• YouTube Disco

Have a great week! 

'JHUD' explores the girl behind the music! (IMED 1359.001 Post #9)

Jennifer Hudson, 'American Idol' alumni, Grammy and Academy Award-winning actress and recording artist, just released her third studio album, 'JHUD.' Jennifer says that she decided to record this album because she wants her fans to get to know the girl outside of the persona known as Jennifer Hudson. In a recent interview with radio show, the Breakfast Club, Jennifer talked about the tremendous amount of pressure she felt after winning an Academy Award for her first film, as well as a Grammy for her first album. This week, I've decided to do a review of some of my favorite tracks from her new album.

1. 'Dangerous' - The first track on the album, this one definitely sets the tone. In this song, Jennifer talks about how her love interest's edge makes her feel dangerous. She's doing things "for the thrill" because he makes her feel that alive when they're together. The reason I love this track is not only because Jennifer sounds amazing (per usual), but every girl wants a guy with a little edge to him.

2. 'It's Your World' (feat. R.Kelly) - This song talks about how Jennifer would go to the ends of the earth to make sure that her partner is happy. Because he's so great to her, she uses this song to declare that 'it's [his] world,' and therefore, she'll do what she can to make sure that he feels that way.

3. 'Walk It Out' (feat. Timbaland) - This sassy anthem, which served as the first single from the album, celebrates the 'chase.' The song talks about someone who is pursuing Jennifer, and would do anything to get her attention. Jennifer constantly states that she's interested, but that she's also a "good girl" and that they have to have to take it slow. The track was produced by and features Timbaland.

4. 'Just That Type Of Girl' - Of all the songs, I think this is the one that most directly mirrors the theme of the album. In this melodic, catchy record, J.Hud lets a guy know that if he wants to get with her, he has to give her the space to be who she is and accept it. It has an extremely sassy undertone that I love.

Overall, I would describe this album as universal across the board. It's appropriate listening for adults and kids alike, and it has an R&B sound with a fun Pop flare. The album is available on iTunes.

#ThrowbackThursday: Queen Bey's "Dangerously in Love" = Nostalgia! (IMED 1359.001 Post #8)

In honor of the fact that I'm writing this post on a Thursday, I've decided to review my favorite tracks from an old school album. This week, I've decided to give you a review of Beyoncé Knowles' debut, 'Dangerously in Love.' The album was released in 2003, debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200, a feat Beyoncé has managed to match with every album release thereafter. The album even went on to produce 5 #1 singles ('Crazy in Love,' 'Naughty Girl,' 'Baby Boy,' 'Me, Myself, & I,' and 'Dangerously in Love'). I can remember being ten years old and listening to this album for the first time - it was one of the first I'd ever purchased with my own money. That being said, I hope that most of you feel the nostalgia as I review some of my favorite tracks this week.

1. 'Crazy in Love' - The leading single from the project, Beyoncé talks about being so 'crazy in love' that you would do anything for your significant other - maybe even some things you wouldn't do normally. You're neglecting your friends, taking extra care of your appearance, and even ignoring the opinions of others. The song features Beyoncé’s husband, Jay-Z (rightfully so).

2. 'Me, Myself, & I' - This song talks about being your own best friend, and finding strength after a breakup. This record explores the struggle of being alone after someone you've trusted has betrayed or hurt you. Beyoncé sympathizes, and lets the ladies know they're not alone in this women's empowerment anthem.

3. 'Yes' - In this song, Beyoncé depicts her struggles with a partner that is moving too fast for her taste. It tells the story of a man who wants too much from her, too soon. The lyrics say: "I said 'yes' to your number, and 'yes' to you dating me, 'yes, we can be together' but you got to wait for me - the first time I said 'no' it's like I never said 'yes.'

4. ‘Signs’ – In this song, Beyoncé uses zodiac signs to describe her man’s attributes. She says that he’s “sexy like Scorpio,” “bossy [like a] Leo,” and eventually says that “he’s so unpredictable, that he reminds [her] of every sign.” I think this song, written by popular rapper Missy Elliot, is so innovative and ahead of its time. I, myself, am really into zodiac signs, so this is the perfect song for me.

eight count. (IMED 1359.001 Post #7)

Last summer, I had the pleasure of working with my close friend, Jai Anthony. We've known each other since 2008, and interestingly enough, we met through YouTube. After squeezing the writing and recording process into 4 days, we decided to release and 8-track EP that was not only a testament to our great chemistry as artists, but as friends. The number has been really significant throughout the extent of our friendship, so I'm glad we were able to produce this 'musical baby' rightfully deemed 'eight count.' This week (for old time's sake), I've decided to go through my favorite tracks on this labor of love.

1. '26' - This song uses the 26 letters of the alphabet to describe all the great things about your significant other. Although this EP is sonically dark, we decided that we needed something to lighten it up a bit. An interesting thing (that Jai and I didn't notice until finishing the recording process) is that 2+6=8.

2. 'Amnesia' - This song explores the feelings one may have after a tumultuous relationship ends. Because the situation wasn't as pleasant as it should've been, you wish you'd develop a case of amnesia to forget it altogether.

3. 'Taxi To Mars' - This song talks about feeling comfortable enough to go to the next level in your relationship (whatever that may be). Because you love this person so much, taking that next step - whether it's being vulnerable, or just spending quality time together - makes you feel like you're out of this world.

4. 'Time Machine' - This song also explores the feelings of one who realizes what they've lost. It talks about wanting to go back and correct your mistakes. This song talks about how you wish you had a time machine, so that you can fix everything. You know what they say: you don't miss the water 'til the well runs dry.


The EP is still available on DatPiff.com 

'Luke James' (the man and the album) is a masterpiece! (IMED 1359.001 Post #6)

Back in 2006, I remember being astounded by the R&B duo that was Luke & Q. Their debut single, "My Turn" was an authentic R&B song that exhibited excellent vocal ability. Not to mention, they were from my hometown New Orleans, Louisiana. Despite my obsession with them, their career never took off like it should have. Now, eight years later, Luke James has resurfaced as a solo artist and I must say - the wait was well worth it. In an interview with the Breakfast Club, James gave details on how his career as a songwriter took off shortly after the disbandment of Luke & Q. Because I was such a fan of his work, I decided to give his debut album a listen (or twenty). Once again, I'm here to review my favorite tracks for the album.


1. "Trouble" - This song talks about falling in love with someone for all the wrong reasons, and regretting it. You worry about a person's physical appearance, rather than making an emotional, or mental connection. If you've ever been through this, you know it's not a great combination and ultimately, your relationship turns sour.

2. "Glass House" - This song talks about both people in the relationship making mistakes, so there's no reason to be fighting one another. Don't 'throw rocks in a glass house,' and expect it not to break. In this song, he's pleading for his woman to go back to the way she used to be because neither of them are perfect.

3. "Exit Wounds" - This is a typical angry, after-the-breakup song only with a slight twist. This song compares a person leaving to getting shot. Only when the love of your life leaves, it may feel like the 'exit wound' will never close. It may feel like the hurt may never subside, and this is a direct audio depiction of that. It also happens to be my favorite on the entire album.

4. "I Want You" - Luke James' leading single, this song is as simple as expressing your interest in someone. This record, in my opinion, is fearless and sensual with a touch of aggression.

Luke James' album is available on iTunes right now.

Ariana Grande's album is "My Everything" (IMED 1359.001 Post #5)

Ariana Grande, singer-turned-Nickelodeon superstar-turned-bonafide pop star, released her highly anticipated sophomore album, "My Everything" (which went on to debut at number one on the Billboard 200). Grande's musical success hasn't come as a shock - at least to me - because of her because of her already large following, not to mention her beautiful 4-octave vocal range. This is the second album of Ariana's to go number one (an accomplishment most singers with more years in the business can't say they've achieved). Once again, I've decided to review my favorite tracks on the album.

1. 'Be My Baby' (feat. Cashmere Cat) - This sassy, feminine anthem is Ariana's proclamation to any guy that's interested in her. This is her way of saying that a guy has to touch her heart, mind, and soul before even getting a chance to touch her body. If you meet her needs/requirements, you can 'be her baby.'

2. 'Break Your Heart Right Back' (feat. Childish Gambino) - This bold, fearless record is a personal recollection from Ariana's romantic past - it talks about a guy who is unfaithful to his girlfriend with another man, something I've been through myself (and even written songs about)! The song features witty rapper Childish Gambino, who plays the role of Ariana's guy friend breaking the unfortunate news to her. He takes advantage of the clever Diana Ross "I'm Coming Out" sample by putting his own twist on his verse.

3. 'Just A Little Bit of Your Heart' - This song talks about not being someone's only, but loving them so much that you'd be willing to settle for 'just a little bit of their heart.' Written by Harry Styles (of One Direction), this is one of the few ballads on the album. It's beautifully, heart-wrenching to say the least.

4. 'Only 1' - This MJ-esque, old school style record is an exclamation of disbelief. It talks about how unbelievable it is that you could be with someone so perfect. Therefore, you're in disbelief that you're their 'only one.'

I Have 'Souled Out' (IMED 1359.001 Post #4)

Jhene Aiko, the somber songbird from Los Angeles, has me hooked on the heartbreak harmonies that make up her debut album, 'Souled Out.' With each body of work, this woman continues to amaze me. What I love most about her (aside from her smooth, cool voice) is that most of her material is written from an open-ended, ambiguous perspective. I'm assuming she does this so that the listener can come up with their own interpretation - this makes for great music because everyone is able to relate. I've been following Jhene's career for quite some time, and I thought it only right to review my favorite tracks from her debut.

1. 'W.A.Y.S' - an acronym for "why aren't you smiling," one of her late brother's last tweets. At the time of said tweet, Aiko's brother was going through treatment for cancer, which eventually caused his death. The song is an anthem of positivity and encouragement. It gets better.

2. 'Wading' - a homophone for "waiting." Jhene has expressed that she loves water, so her play on words her is appropriate (and pretty darn clever). This song explores being dragged (and left) into the deep end, and left "wading" for a person to love you enough to come back to save you from drowning.

3. 'Brave' - This song talks about feeling unworthy of love. When you finally let someone in, you're amazed about how "brave" they are to have fallen for you, after you've presumed you are undeserving.

4. 'Promises' - In the first half of the song, Jhene pleads her daughter to 'promise' her that she will always be okay. The second half of the song, Jhene, sends a 'promise' to her late brother, Miyagi, that she will always be alright and do her best.

5. 'Pretty Bird' - This song (from what I gather) is about refusing to dim your light, even if it means letting other's shine. Don't be ashamed to sing, fly, or express yourself because it makes others uncomfortable.

The Acapella Files (IMED 1359.001 Post #3)

I'm not sure if I've ever mentioned this, but I'm an artist myself (which probably explains why my blog is dedicated to my love for music). Anyway, this week, I've decided to write about my original music. Next year, I plan to release an entire acapella EP of my own, entitled "The Acapella Files," and I thought it would be nice to go into depth about each song, explaining their content. This entire EP is inspired by true events, and I wanted to tell that story through each song.

1. 'Heights' - This song - which is also the single - is about simply being afraid to fall. After you've been hurt, it can be difficult to trust, or even open yourself up to another person. By nature, I can be a very guarded person and that affects me most when I'm getting to know a new person, so this song is definitely written from my own personal experience. 

2. 'Wish U Would' - This song is about how trust issues can deteriorate a relationship. Most of the time, our insecurities tend to push a good person away. Once trust is diminished, it can be hard not to expect every other relationship to turn out the same. The entire song says I "wish you would" go out and cheat on me, I "wish you would" lie to me, daring the new guy to be exactly like the last one. 

3. 'Red Flags' - This song is pretty self explanatory - it talks about seeing the signs all along, but being too afraid to shed light on them. Everything turns out exactly how you expected because all the 'red flags' warned you from the start. 

4. 'Dark Shades' - The fourth (and final) song tells the story of a smooth operator who uses his flirtatious nature, charm, and wit to cover up something much deeper. This song is what inspired the entire acapella project. 

XOXO, 

Meghan 

Open Mic FRIGHT! (IMED 1359.001 Post #2)

    I sat there, frozen. I knew I'd heard the MC call my name, but for some reason, I couldn't bring myself to stand up and walk to the mic stand. "Is Meghan in the audience?" the MC said for the second time. I silently reassured myself that everything would be alright, stood up, and hoped no one could detect my false confidence as I walked up to the mic stand in anxiety and fear. I stood behind the mic for a couple of seconds before I finally said "Hi. I'm Meghan as they said before, and I'm going to do a little bit of Beyonce's 'Best Thing I Never Had,' but I'm gonna need you guy's help singing it, okay?" 

     The audience's loud, enthusiastic cheers startled me a bit because I didn't expect them to be so interactive. I was prepared for blank stares with occasional blinks. Their inviting smiles and attention calmed me as I said: "Repeat after me. Say: 'What goes around comes back around. HEY, my baby!' Your turn." They did their part with excitement, and in that moment I KNEW that my silent reassurance held truth. I couldn't help smiling as I performed what is widely considered a "break-up song" because the feelings of release and comfort I got just standing on that stage were AMAZING. 

     As my vocal chords released the last note of the song, the crowd cheered, and I walked away from the mic, TWO questions were resonating in my mind: "HOW DOES BEYONCE DO THAT?!" and "WHEN CAN I DO THAT AGAIN?" Suddenly, all the nerves I once harbored seemed frivolous. I silently chuckled at how silly it was to have all this built up anxiety.  In addition to that, I felt like I should have been looking for my heart because I definitely LEFT it on the stage.

Dear Music, it's me - Meghan (IMED 1359.001 Post #1)

I've decided to dedicate my blog to current events in pop culture/music, seeing as though it's one of my passions. I'm hoping that it will make writing a weekly blog post (something I'm not exactly acclimated to) a little more fun. I also have faith that it will make this semester a great one!


Sincerely,
Meghan (Rookie blogger)