Ten editions and still going strong! If it's one thing we'll never run out of, it's music. It's alive, beautiful and life changing if you look in the right places. First look back at 10 editions of '4 the Love of Music' if you haven't already. This month, we go back 10 years for one song and come back to 2014 for three songs.
'I Know We Ain't Got Much to Say Before I Let You Get Away'
The year is 2004. A great year for music. Back when the MTV V.M.A.'s was still relevant. Jet, Hoobastank, Yellowcard and Outkast performed. I don't even have to look it up. Performances were worth gold and so were the people performing. Hoobastank sang The Reason, Yellowcard sang Ocean Avenue, Outkast sang Hey Ya and Jet sang Are You Gonna Be My Girl? Ten years later and these four songs are still great, if it's possible, they're even better than before. All you have to hear is the first 4 seconds to know what song it is and think back to their V.M.A. performances. And if it's 'Are You Gonna Be My Girl?', you'll keep waiting for that moment when you can help Jet scream "Are you gonna be my girl" while playing air guitar. That's not the only relevant thing Jet has done. Their song 'Look What You've Done' made it to the soundtrack of 'A Lot Like Love', which has one of the best soundtracks EVER! The only thing better than these two songs, is the name of the album they're on, Get Born. It doesn't take long to realize that Jet is a cool band, without even trying to be. Their cool will rub off on you once you hear this song:
Jet -
Are You Gonna Be My Girl?
Album: Get Born
'Sink My Pains and Complains, Let the River Take Them'
They're not Mary-Kate and Ashley, but Lisa and Naomi are certainly making all twins look good as a unit. Ibeyi, a band I found through Vogue magazine, just released their EP, Oya. I first heard 'Mama Says', but there's one song on the EP that I just can't get enough of. 'River', a song dedicated to the River Goddess Oshun, will make you fall in love with the French-Cuban twins. They wrote it, they sing it and they star in the amazing video. The beat and the background vocals really bring this song to another level. And, in both Mama Says and River they end up singing in Yoruba, which makes them so unique and a pleasure to listen to.
Ibeyi -
River
Album: Oya EP
'You Try to Catch Me When I'm Finally Free'
The day has come my friends. Leighton Meester is finally releasing her album! I'm not talking about 'Somebody to Love' and 'Good Girls Go Bad' Leighton Meester. That is a great Leighton Meester, but I prefer hippie-floral-crown-wearing Leighton Meester any time of the day. I've heard all of the songs live on her #LMCITD tour, but now it's time to start stanning for the studio version. If you haven't noticed I'm a stan, and all Lei stans have already met this Leighton Meester, but the rest of the world will be blown away! She wrote most of the songs, they mean a lot to her and it's much more personal than anything she's ever done. It's not Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl and it's definitely not Rebecca from The Roommate. It's Leighton Marissa Meester.
Leighton Meester -
Heartstrings
Album: Heartstrings
'We Lay Here for Years or For Hours, Your Hand In My Hand'
Hozier, a must look out for artist, who's album is being released October 7 2014, is taking the internet by storm with his song Take Me To Church. It's honest, epic and the world needs more people like Hozier. Basically, every Hozier song I've heard is amazing. Vocally, musically and artistically. Without trying he makes sure you know it's his music you're listening to, by putting his own spin on it. It goes without saying, Hozier's music is here to stay and he could be the new voice music so desperately needs. Sure a lot can hold a tune. But, how many can sing just as well on stage as in the studio. When first hearing a Hozier song, I don't doubt you'll think, 'man, I must hear this man live'. Also, you can get a better version of this track for free, if you share it with your friends.
Hozier -
In a Week
Album: Hozier
If you look at this edition we have a lot to look out for this year. It goes without saying, there are more musicians you should be checking out. I'm doing my part in sharing one of the best things life has to offer, music. Share with me your favorite songs and bands.
In the last edition this blog celebrated the 1 year anniversary of 4 the Love of Music. One year has passed and many more to come. Here is the 9th edition! I'll stick to the theme of today and present you with a 4 the Love of Music Edition with some Independent "Indie" musicians, who made it to the list of my favorite songs.
"Waking Up with the Pouring Rain, Same Old Sun and the Sky Again"
Foy Vance, is surely an underappreciated singer and songwriter who toured with Ed Sheeran. I first heard his music on noisetrade, my favorite music website, and I've been hooked on his music ever since. He often releases free music on iTunes, like his video for "Joy of Nothing" and the single "Closed Hand, Full Friends", and on noisetrade, "Dark Horse". It's difficult to pick one favorite song from his collection 'cause he doesn't really make one type of music, but "Joy of Nothing" and "Indiscriminate Act of Kindness" have a special place in my heart. "Joy of Nothing" is not a song with many words, but the few words are fundamentally meaningful. It's simple, he's enjoying the things that will always be there like the rain, the sun and the sky, and I hope you will too!
Foy Vance - Joy of Nothing Album: Joy of Nothing
"It's Not About Win or Lose Because We All Lose When They Feed on the Souls of the Innocent"
Not a lot of Grammy nominated musicians are willing to put some of their music for free on the internet, but then again not a lot of musicians can stay grounded like Matisyahu. If you're wondering why his name sounds familiar it's because you probably know "King Without a Crown", which is his biggest hit. Ask me anything you want about Matisyahu, I know it all. In High School we had to pick a reggae artist to talk about and I picked this reggae rapper. If you ever have time, you should read his bio, he has had a pretty interesting life. Although "King Without a Crown" is epic and eccentric, my favorite song of his is and will always be "One Day". "One Day" was chosen to be the anthem of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. I'm not surprised, I mean, he's addressing the state of separating yourself from all the negativity around you. But, it's more than that. It's about being thankful and looking forward to that ONE DAY that the war will be over.
Matisyahu - One Day Album: Light
"I Went Out to Find My Soul and Left the Only Comfort that I'd Known"
The music industry isn't what it used to be, I mean, listening to and buying an entire album is so outdated. It just doesn't happen anymore. Now comes a band that made an entire album, this year, worth buying. The year hasn't ended yet, but they might have the best album that was released this year. I compare their album to Black Eyed Peas' Monkey Business, which is one of the most creative albums ever made. That's what makes this band so amazing - their creativity.
Neon Trees have been doing pretty well in the Indie scene with their previous work, "Habits" and "Picture Show". Now, comes an album "Pop Psychology" that's more personal, romantic and coming-of-age than they're used to. Vocally and lyrically it's their best album and it's definitely more for the die-hard-fans. It doesn't have a lot of room for radio hits, even though most of the songs are upbeat, they're not the radio-type upbeat. But, it's fantastic festival music. Lyrically, if you've heard the album a couple of times, you will understand that it hits a nerve to whoever made the music. But, then again, I'm assuming you already know about Tyler Glenn's, coming out article. That doesn't stop the album from being emotional, fierce and positive at the same time, in a way that we all have roller coaster emotions when we're going through a rough time.
If I had to name the songs you have to check out, you'd be here all day. And since you want to be here all day I'd say check out "I Love You (But I Hate Your Friends)", "Love in the 21st Century", "Living in Another World", "Text Me in the Morning", "Foolish Behaviour" and "Unavoidable". But, a song lyric from "First Things First" explains what the entire album is about: "I went out to find my soul and left the only comfort that I'd known".
Neon Trees -
First Things First
Album: Pop Psychology
"The More I Make the Less that I Borrow"
Somehow I always feel like a rockstar when I listen to Tyler Hilton - maybe it's the fact that he played Elvis in Walk the Line, or the fact that he was bad *ss in One Tree Hill or the fact that he has a raspy raw voice that seems to fit on every song he ever sings. Who knows? There's no way to explain it, either way ill take it! - see what I did there...! You can get this song (and many more) for FREE on noisetrade. Tyler selected a couple of songs like Prince of Nothing Charming, Loaded Gun and a cover of Missing You and released them in an album, The Studio and Live Selections. You should also check out his YouTube channel where he covers many songs like Lana Del Rey's Video Games and Bob Dylan's Boots of Spanish Leather.
Tyler Hilton -
Kicking My Heels
Album: Forget the Storm
It's no secret that I'm a huge Michael Fassbender fan, which also means that I'm fully aware of the bromance between him and James McAvoy. But, more importantly, are you aware of the moves Michael Fassbender, James McAvoy and Hugh Jackman have?
After this you must be wondering what goes on, on the set of X-Men. Or, you're wondering when the next edition of "4 the Love of Music" will be released. The answer is October. But, I will release a couple of articles soon. Also, catch up on the editions you missed. To stay posted sign up or follow this blog on twitter, facebook and google+.
Today, a year ago, I started "4 the Love of Music" on DiFashionista!
To celebrate this one year anniversary I'm giving you twice as much songs.
It's been a year of picking some of my favorite bands and singers from my most played playlists.
"You say that you love me but I ask you how much? So you spread your arms wide till behind you. Your thumbs touch"
Amy Kuney is the Stacey Bendet of the music biz! She's whimsical and it's really fun to listen to. If you like her you should thank Indie-music-fan Sophia Bush for telling us about her. They're friends and they've worked together along with Austin Nichols on the compilation album - Gasoline Rainbows - benefiting the Gulf Coast from the 2010 BP Oil Spill. The title track was written and sung by Miss Amy Kuney and it even ended up on So You Think You Can Dance Canada. Amy has also done a couple of covers like Joni Mitchell's "River" and The Script's "The Man Who Can't Be Moved", but what you need to hear is her album "Bird's Eye View". Thank You for Last Night & Rocket Surgery are my favorites because of their peculiar twists.
Let's bring her quirky character and fan-friendliness in this convo 'cause she's hilarious. When I told her on twitter in 2011 that Rocket Surgery was my favorite song from the album she replied: "my mom used to get brain surgery and rocket science mixed up all the time, so you can thank her for the title :)". Rocket Surgery is basically a song about a guy who's really smart and in love with her but makes love seem really difficult. So, she's telling him that he should hurry up or else he'll lose her. Also, at the end when the bridge starts you can hear someone singing opera in the back. What did I say...she makes whimsical music!
Amy Kuney - Rocket Surgery Album: Bird's Eye View
"Yeah, We're Locked Up in Ideas, We Like to Label Everything"
If this beat doesn't want you getting all nerdy on the dance floor (that is my room), you are not me. From the makers of the genius song "Pumped Up Kicks", I bring you another song that is one for the century. Foster the People is just one of those bands that gets you in a good mood any time of the day.
This is a rebellious song and you may only pay attention to the beat that totally takes over this song but the lyrics just do it for me. They're basically singing about rebelling against three things: not being yourself, not having to prove yourself and giving in to society's "mainstream" hype. "And I'm in the crossfire dodging bullets from all your expectancies" is the not having to prove yourself part. "But what I've got can't be bought" is the not giving in to society's "mainstream" hype. "If it don't conform to what you were born into then you run the other way" is the being yourself part. No wonder this song is one of the two songs that actually make me want to dance. They created a beat that makes you want to be yourself.
Foster the People - Call It What You Want
Album: Torches
"I Wish You Would Tell Me How You Really Feel"
If you were looking for a remake of West Side story, you're in the right place. Tyler Posey & Chloe Grace Moretz recreate one of the most famous love stories and it's directed by Drew Barrymore. Victoria Justice, Shailene Woodley, Donald Glover, Alia Shawkat and Miranda Crosgrove also star in it. Yes, it's a music video turned short film and the music will just really grab you. It's an MTV production and the music is by a band "Best Coast". In this short/extended video you'll hear "Our Deal" and "Boyfriend".
Best Coast -
Our Deal + Boyfriend Album: Crazy for You
"I Think of You Much More than I Should"
I have a lot of bands that I listen to a lot but The Lone Bellow, like The Lumineers Vampire Weekend, Of Monsters and Men and Mumford and Sons, have a special place in my heart. All of their music, slow or upbeat, is amazing, well written and well made. They're a little bit country and a little bit folk but you won't be able to resist the combination of celebratory music and the real stuff. I can't begin to name the songs that I listen too very often like Tree to Grow, You Never Need Nobody, Two Sides of Lonely, You Can Be All Kinds of Emotional, Looking for You, Teach Me To Know, You Don't Love Me Like You Used to, Bleeding Out, Button and so on. This is music to me, one band and songs for every mood I'm in, yet I can't pick my favorite song! Also remarkable is the amount of bridges in their songs. They switch upbeat to slow a lot in their music and that effect is truly admirable.
The Lone Bellow -
Looking for You
Album: The Lone Bellow
"I'm Born to Go Where They Tell Me It's Impossible"
One of my favorite bands JOHNNYSWIM is finally releasing their first album - Diamonds - and it's already available for pre-ordering. Since June 2013 when I bought and heard their EP, I've been asking them for an album and it's finally here - well April 29th! Amanda Sudano and Abner Ramirez harmonize perfectly and their onstage energy is really great. Amanda is the daughter of Donna Summer so I'm not surprised by her talent, but music like this just doesn't happen anymore, so I'm grateful! Can't name my favorite song especially since they're so good live, some I like live and some from the studio version. Listen to the EP and pick your fav out of Heart Beats, Don't Let It Get You Down, Make, Don't Keep Heaven Busy, Annie and Adelina.
Johhnyswim - Heart Beats Album: Heart Beats - EP
"Wisdom's a Gift but You Trade it for Youth"
Now it's time for a song coming from the Grammy winning album "Modern Vampires of the City" - Step. This was Vampire Weekend's second Grammy nomination but with or without the win the album would still be great! This song is slower than what we're used to from V.W. but it's awesome! My favorite part is the part where he sings "every time I see you in the world you always step to my girl". Apparently, that's Ezra Koenig's fav part too because he sampled it from Souls of Mischief's "Step To My Girl". Based on that phrase he wrote the entire song. Now, replace the word Girl with Music and you'll really get what he's talking about... It's about an obsession with your favorite music and bands.
Vampire Weekend - Step Album: Modern Vampires of the City
"She Says She's Taken but I Don't Believe That She's Made for Anybody But Me"
Actress Leighton Meester showed us a new side last summer when she took us to her recording studio in HTC Summer Sessions. This new side is not her voice because we already knew she could sing when she worked with Robin Thicke (Somebody to Love), Cobra Starship (Good Girls Go Bad) and of course music from her role in Country Strong. This new side is more about the change of genre of her new music. It's really personal and more a softer side of her previous work. She toured with Check in the Dark and covered a couple of songs. The Stand In is originally from Check in the Dark's eponymous debut album but they added the version with Leighton Meester to their second album "The Game". The original version was already good - Mike Frieman's voice is amazing - but it really needed a soft female voice to make it more romantic.
Well you know how that story goes...
Check in the Dark ft Leighton Meester - The Stand In Album: The Game
"Soon All the Joy that Pours from Everything Makes Fountains of Your Eyes"
Movies and Music go hand in hand for me, not just because of the soundtrack. This particular band, comes out of a scene from the movie 'Stuck in Love (2012)'. It's the scene where Rusty's (Nat Wolff) drug addicted and alcoholic girlfriend Kate (Liana Liberato) gives him a Christmas present, which is the album Fevers and Mirrors by Bright Eyes. I only checked out this album from Bright Eyes so far, but there are a lot more. I just fell in love with the way they made this album. It's not cheesy or romantic or about anything specifically, but it just seems like someone wrote about all the emotions and events of an everyday life, you know the things we can't control. This particular song is about finding something positive in the things that go horribly wrong. Conor Oberst really has a talent for writing. None of the songs are extremely long but the words are just amazing. It almost feels like he didn't write a song but rather a story. And it's like that with all of his music - he's very underappreciated as a singer as well as a writer especially because he's in so many bands. I mean I'm shocked that songs like The Movement of a Hand, Something Vague, When the Curious Girl Realizes She Is Under Glass and The Centre of the World aren't "out there".
Bright Eyes - The Movement of a Hand Album: Fevers and Mirrors
One year has passed, many more to come!
Look out for a new article soon,
Much Love,
DiFashionista
The Tennessee Whalers consists of Nick, Rand, Allan and Mark and you should look out for them this year because they will be releasing new music soon. I just can't get enough of their song 'Locks' and lucky for you I found it on noisetrade for free last year. You can listen and download for free there, and if you like it be sure to share or let them know on their Twitter. 'Locks' is the happiest break-up song I know and it sounds great in the car. I'm so excited for the new stuff they will be releasing!
'Just Treat Me Good and Baby I'll Give You the Rest of Me'
This song has a really great beat. Not surprised...it's a Solange song! The True EP came out November 2012, but I only started listening to it - a lot - in 2013. Solange is an artist that can never bore me. Her personal style and taste in music are so interesting. She's one of the reasons I started listening to Indie music in the first place and now that she started her own label we can enjoy more artists like her. I also really like how she shares her inspiration and her favorite bands.
Solange - Losing You Album: True EP
'Life with You Means Love and Laughter'
So, I recently heard Miley Cyrus' latest album "Bangerz", and even though it's not really my style I did enjoy 3 songs on it. That includes: Wrecking Ball, Adore You and Rooting for My Baby. The other songs lack anything that has anything to do with soul, great lyricism or heart - or as I like to call it the 'Old Miley'. I'm not one of those people who's going to pretend like Miley was never good, I mean songs like 'Bottom of the Ocean', 'Forgiveness and Love', 'Stay' and 'Obsessed' are songs that I will be listening to for the rest of my life. I guess we'll all have to appreciate the fact that there are 3 'old Mileys' on this new album.
Miley Cyrus - Rooting for My Baby Album: Bangerz
'I'll Search Through the Crowd if Your Face is All that I See'
4 the Love of Music will now be released 4 times a year, instead of every month. I simply don't have the time that I used to have and I want to focus more on different kind of articles this year. That's why I have decided to cut down on music to broaden my blogging subjects. That makes it January, April, July and October of every year. The next edition will be released on April 4th 2014. See you then!
Much Love,
DiFashionista
I do not know if it is the month November but this month is an indie turned pop edition of 4 the Love of Music. It's not really mainstream pop but pop as in underground bands/artists who have one or two radio hits. This month I will have music by Brett Dennen who just released his 5th album, also The Lumineers who brought out their Deluxe Edition, Imagine Dragons and Of Monsters and Men who have been rocking out all festivals all year!
'When I Do Not Feel Inspired...I Can Only Speak My Heart'
Last week Brett Dennen released his album 'Smoke and Mirrors' - October 22nd to be precise. When Brett is releasing new music rest assured...there's magic happening. Before the release of 'Smoke and Mirrors' Brett had Q&A's on his Facebook and I was lucky enough to be one of the fans who got 2 out of 3 questions answered. I asked him what I always ask musicians who have a different sound - but they never answer, so glad he did - which is "how did you find your sound?". He answered: 'It takes time. Picking and choosing what feels right. Sometimes it's more about what you don't play.' I've been a Brett Dennen fan since Heaven came out and I've really been looking forward to a new album because they're all so personal and honest. He's most of the time talking about 21st century problems, love or just the adventures that life has to offer. That's not too bad for a 34-year-old folk singer and songwriter with five studio albums. Brett calls this album 'back to basics' saying:
'I wanted to return to folk and acoustic music I loved when I began writing. I decided to tap into my memories and explore new emotional territory as honestly as I could'.
Why the name 'Smoke and Mirrors'?:
'I called the album Smoke and Mirrors, because one of the major themes of the album, lyrically, is that things aren't exactly as they appear to be. If you focus on how you think things should be, then you can't see them for what they really are,'
The first released song off 'Smoke and Mirrors' is Wild Child, it's more of a radio hit - which the first song almost always is. The highlight of the album for me is really 'Only Want You'. It's a love song about choosing the connection over the the tough times you can face when in a relationship. It's a mixture of things that make this song amazing...like the female vocals in the background, the lyrics and the reggae touch. I'm never worried about lyrics with Brett because he has just a simple and clever way of writing his music. If it's one thing this album isn't missing it's great lyrics.
You can listen & get 'Only Want You' for free on NOISETRADE!
'In the End it All Comes Down to Credibility. I Had None So I Will Die with the Secrets of the Sea'
Yay! My all time favorite song FINALLY has a music video. My favorite band just can't stop doing AMAZING things like releasing a deluxe edition of their album (which I have been waiting for since I heard the album!), getting a track on The Hunger Games' Catching Fire Soundtrack and now releasing their third music video from the self-titled album that came out in 2012. The album version of Submarines is not my favorite song - rather the Submarine live version from the HearYa Live Sessions - but this will do! It's animated and now it's mine and yours...enjoy!
The Lumineers - Submarines
Album: The Lumineers (Deluxe Edition)
'I Take it in but Don't Look Down'
If you used to watch the TV-serie Partners you probably already know this song because it was the theme song. But if you didn't this is a really great way to introduce yourself to the band Imagine Dragons. Imagine Dragons' "On Top of the World" is like The Lumineers' "Ho Hey" and Foster the People's "Pumped Up Kicks" - you first love the song and then you fall in love with the band. It's really catchy with the claps and the background vocals and it's a great song to get you or keep you in a great mood:
Imagine Dragons -
On Top of the World
Album: Night Visions
'And as the World Comes to an End, I'll Be Here to Hold Your Hand'
Of Monsters and Men was a must-check-out band at this year's Coachella and they did not let down. They formed O.M.a.M. back in 2010 and they released their first studio album 'My Head is an Animal' in 2011. They - for the most part - have the same fans as 'The Lumineers' and 'Mumford & Sons' and they even share a radio station on iTunes. My favorite song of theirs is "Love Love Love", and I'm basically in love with Nanna's soft yet sharp voice...I just can't get enough! I would advise to listen to all the songs on My Head is an Animal, because they have a whimsical side to their music that I can really appreciate. Like the song 'Dirty Paws' starts with 'Jumping up and down the floor, My head is an animal. And once there was an animal, It had a son that mowed the lawn. The son was an ok guy, They had a pet dragonfly. The dragonfly it ran away. But it came back with a story to say.' All I can say: I can't wait for that video! For now we are going to have to do it with their animated video-game-like music video's which they have released 2 of including 'King and Lionheart' and 'Little Talks'.
Of Monsters and Men -
King and Lionheart
Album: My Head is an Animal
See you in December for the 7th and final edition of 2013 of 4 the Love of Music.
Summer is over and out and school is in.
I start this Monday at school and I will start blogging again. The last edition of 4 the Love of Music was back in June. Now I'm back with the 5th edition and I have a lot of new bands and songs I can't wait to share with you. These four songs are all songs I have been enjoying all summer.
Enjoy!
'One Day You Screaming You Love Me Loud, the Next Day You're So Cold'
Just like Jay & Ye and Robin Thicke & Pharrell, JT and JAY Z are starting to make a happy combination. Starting with Suit & Tie and now Holy Grail...could this be the year of bromance music? If you're not planning to listen to this song at least do it for 1) JT's amazing vocals 2) JT's extra handsome look 3) JAY Z's artistic value. If you listen to the song and then watch the video, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about! The amazing visuals, vocals and beat almost make you forget that this song is about JAY Z's love/hate relationship with fame.
Jay Z ft Justin Timberlake -
Holy Grail Album: Magna Carta... Holy Grail
'Only Hate the Road When You're Missing Home'
I'm still in the process of checking all of Passenger's music but I don't have any complaints yet. The lead singer's voice is really good and the lyrics are amazing. It's easy on the ears and I really enjoyed this song:
Passenger -
Let Her Go Album: All the Little Lights
'And I Was Tired of Giving You More than You Gave to Me'
These siblings have made my summer. The Oh Hellos consists of Maggie and Tyler Heath. I actually found their album for free on noisetrade and I really fell in love with their album 'Through the Deep, Dark Valley'. They're inspired by some of my favorite bands in the industry like The Lumineers and Mumford & Sons. They are another example of why I love Indie Bands so much. Indie bands always look for that unique sound that will make you remember them. They make music for themselves and they won't let go of their creative side for anyone. In return I want to share their amazing music with you and if you like them please continue to support them by sharing their music with others. Their album is a bit diverse so I'm pretty sure you will find at least one song you'll like.
The Oh Hellos -
The Truth is a Cave Album: Through the Deep, Dark Valley
'I Look to the Skyline and Said: How Many Falls Until I Fly?'
This 22-year-old British singer-songwriter-pianist released his first studio album 'Long Way Down' last June. Tom Odell makes the kind of music everyone can relate to. His album is quite enjoyable especially the tracks like 'Another Love','Supposed To Be', 'I Know' and 'Can't Pretend'. More impressive is the way he writes his lyrics. It's almost like he's writing a story and then singing it. And the cherry on top: his piano-playing skills. He is one of the reasons why singer-songwriter is a separate genre. The kind of soul and feeling you put in to a song about a story that really happened to you makes it sound way more special than someone else just sing your song. Peter has it...the voice...the face...the talent. I can't wait to hear more.
Happy Summer!
I hope you are enjoying the sun and sand with music in the back. This edtion - the 4th edition - of '4 the Love of Music' is themed 'summer music'. So every year I have a summer theme song and it's most of the time a song I can't stop listening to. Summer hits aren't really about good heartfelt lyrics but more about eccentric beats that make you feel relaxed and ready to have fun!
My summer theme songs of the previous years include:
- Ni**as in Paris by Jay-z & Kanye
- My Love by Justin Timberlake & T.I.
- Wanna Love You by Robin Thicke & Pharrell
- Whine Up by Kat Deluna & Elephant Man
'You & I can Find what the World's been Looking for Forever...Friendship & Love Together'
One thing that makes Summer even better...L.O.V.E. One of sweetest and most romantic songs I can actually remember from when I was really young is a song by India.Arie. At that age it was something new for me and I was totally blown away by her soulful voice and new point of view of love. When I heard the song Bubly by Colbie Caillat I immediately thought of India.Arie's song. That's why I connect both songs to summer romance whenever I hear them. India.Arie makes love seem so easy and fun in 'Can I Walk with You':
India.Arie -
Can I Walk With You Album: Voyage to India
'Nobody Knows What the Future Holds and It's Bad Enough Just Getting Old'
Everyone knows Summer is also Festival Season! And in my opinion Festival music is the best kind of music. Sometimes they don't make sense, but that doesn't matter because everyone is just there to sing along and have fun. Indie bands don't normally have the tendency to bring out 'crappy songs' with 'crappy lyrics' so that's what makes festivals so amazing. Coachella ended earlier this year, but festivals like Glastonbury and Lollapalooza are summer festivals. They had amazing line ups and one of them is Vampire Weekend. I've been a longtime V.W. fan and their latest album Modern Vampires of the City came out earlier this year. It has a couple of great songs, two of them being 'Diane Young' and 'Ya Hey'. They performed 'Diane Young' at this year's Glastonbury and here it is:
Vampire Weekend -
Diane Young Album: Modern Vampires of the City
'You & I - bloodlines, We Come Together Every time'
I first discovered Jessie Ware when I was watching this years Coachella. She was on Solange Knowles' 'people to look forward to on Coachella' list so I had to check her out. By the time her album Devotion came out, the track 'Wildest Moments' was on iTunes' 'songs we really enjoy' list - also known as the free track of the week. The lyrics are pretty good but I didn't really get the video...until now. I quickly fell in love with Wildest Moments as Jessie describes a relationship involving two people who aren't meant to be together - singing 'two wrongs, no rights'. There's a certain irony in it as she continues 'we walk the line'. In the last verse she describes how she misses their 'wildest moments' and she's also wondering 'what if''. That explains her turning circles in the video, their relationship is back and forth. In this case, simplicity is key!
Jessie Ware -
Wildest Moments
Album: Devotion
'I Feel So Lucky, You Wanna Hug Me. What Rhymes with Hug Me?'
If two people on this planet should be working more together their names are: Robin Thicke and Pharrell. I mean whenever their forces unite, magic comes out. Their last hit 'Wanna Love You' was also one of my 'summer songs' a couple of years ago. They did it again - this time with T.I. - and I love it in an 'on repeat' way. It's really more of a either-really-love-it or really hate it kind of a song, which sounds like every summer hit. This is my 2013 summer theme song:
Robin Thicke ft Pharrell ft T.I. -
Blurred Lines
Album: Blurred Lines
It's always summer in my country, so it's sun everyday, but music is the only thing that really changes around this time because she weather is most certainly not. If it's even possible it can get hotter in august. It's great to spend these days surrounded by water!
When a new month starts, it's certainly time to get ready for another edition of '4 the Love of Music'. This time I failed to release it on time due to my busy school schedule. Sorry!. Like every edition, this one also has a theme and it's: 'a celebration of life'. I had another theme in mind for this edition but I came across a very inspiring person that made me change the theme. His name is Zach Sobiech and this edition is dedicated to him.
'Life Is A Short Trip, the Music's for The Sad Man'
I feel it's very appropriate to include Beyonce in this edition since she headlined Gucci's 'Chime for Change: Sound of Change' concert. This song is one of my favorite covers, the refrain is originally by Alphaville but Jay-z put his own spin on it for his album 'The Blueprint 3' and Mr. Hudson sang the refrain in that one. This is the part where Beyonce comes in... As Jay-z headlined Coachella in 2010, Beyonce also put her own spin on it and slowed down the intro of the beat and sang the refrain. It's really amazing to hear 3 artists sing one song totally different. What's even more amazing is the live effect. Everything sounds better when it's live and raw. No one better than two amazing performers to sing/rap this amazing song.
P.s. I loved Jay-z and Beyonce's chemistry on stage
Jay-z featuring Beyonce -
Young Forever (Live)
Coachella 2010
'Changes Come & We All Know That We Can't Stop Them, But I Hold The Memories & I Will Never Drop Them'
Brett Dennen is one of my favorite artists and musicians of all time. He's remarkably talented with honest writing and a beautiful voice. He mostly sings about 21st century problems, but this song is about life after death. The lyrics are amazing and he's singing about watching over someone who's still on this planet. California born folk musician and songwriter Brett Dennen knows a thing or two about bringing out a meaningful song that will make you melt if you listen to the lyrics. He's also one for the music not the money. Two of his songs were on the Grey's Anatomy soundtrack and much more series. His most famous songs are 'Ain't No Reason', 'Make You Crazy' and my personal favorite 'Heaven'. From his self-titled album, I bring you:
Brett Dennen -
When I Go
Album: Brett Dennen
'The Heart's I Have Touched, Will Be the Proof that I Leave'
Last year's World Humanitarian Day Beyonce started a campaign 'I Was Here' which was about doing something good, somewhere for someone else. A lot of singers, designers and actors including President and First Lady Barack and Michelle Obama, Lady Gaga, Ben Affleck, Gucci and Stella McCartney have helped Beyonce reach 1 billion supporters on August 19th. It truly was a moment of history I was glad I witnessed. For this campaign she released a video where she performs 'I Was Here' live at the UN's headquarters. If the song and the lyrics aren't amazing enough wait till you see the amazing visuals and her long sleeved glittered white dress. What truly adds a bit more heart and the message Beyonce was trying to sent out was the video of people helping other people. Here is a moment captured forever in my mind:
Beyonce -
I Was Here
Album: 4
Who is Zach Sobiech?
Zach is a teen who was diagnosed with bone cancer at the age of 14. He wrote and sang a song 'Clouds' which was a Youtube hit. The song can be seen as his goodbye letter, since writing letters weren't his style. The video has more than 7 million views and a couple of covers. Sadly Zach passed away on May 20th 2013 at the age of 18. Weeks before his death celebs such as Rainn Wilson, Rachel Bilson, Wes from The Lumineers, Phillip Phillips, Jason Mraz, Ashley Tisdale, Sara Bareilles, Bryan Cranson, Sarah Silverman and Jason Derulo lip sang a tribute video. This video has almost 3 million views. Zach set up a fund called 'The Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma Fund' and all proceeds benefit the fund. They've made over $350,000 already and you can purchase the iTunes #1 hit here. Zach is a true inspirations and I hope he has inspire many more make a step in the right direction!
Zach Sobiech -
Clouds
I am dedicating the 3rd edition of '4 the Love of Music' to Zach, who simply wanted the world to know that you don't have to find out you're dying to start living. I want to help him spread this message since he is no longer with us. He is a reminder that we should all live out our dreams.
For the second edition of DiFashionista's '4 the Love of Music' I am going to show you the awesomeness that is my 'new' favorite band. They are....The Lumineers.
From being able to perform at the Grammy's and at Coachella 2013 - and let's not forget selling over 1 million albums - The Lumineers have come a long way. A friend recommended their self-titled album and since then I can't seem to picture a moment of my life that they haven't been playing in my ear - or in my head. Repeat is a place they have come to earn and should make peace with!
Everyone has that band that you want to listen to all the time but when you search their track list you don't know which song to listen to first, well The Lumineers are like that for me. I'm not saying I can't pick my favorite song from them, I'm just saying it doesn't happen a lot that a band/artists has an album filled with amazing songs. It is literally the only album where I haven't come across a song I dislike. I can listen to the album without skipping anything - that's a work of art, if you ask me.
The thing that really makes The Lumineers stand out, is the same rule as in Fashion: Be cohesive yet versatile AT ALL TIMES! Listening to their album will show you their sound as a band, but it will surely won't make you say 'ow I heard this song already'.
Introduction:
The band members from left to right: Stelth, Neyla, Wesley, Jeremiah and Ben.
"And Love, We Need It Now. Let's Hope For Some 'Cause We're Bleeding Out"
The Lumineers first released 'Ho Hey' off their debut album and the video quickly came after that. Ho Hey is a very good introduction to the band's new sound - it's both mainstream and also underground. There are circling a lot of 'meanings' behind the song, some claim it's about the love of his life, others say it's about his move from NY to Denver and another claims that it's about drugs (I highly doubt that). It's not important, we all find our own meaning behind our favorite songs. When I first heard it I thought 'this must me excellent live' and the band said it's a definite crowd-pleaser. It was received pretty good because they ended up performing it at the Grammy's and it has over 63 million views on YouTube. I fell in love with this song and decided to check out the album:
Song: Ho Hey
"In the End it All Comes Down to Credibility. I had None, So I Will Die With the Secrets of the Sea"
Wesley (the lead singer) wrote most of the songs and this next song is an example of how important the relationship between lyrics and music is. The lyrics are amazing and comedic but what really sets this song apart is the music behind it. It's catchy and eccentric because they didn't over-do the music instruments. It's the right amount of keeping it mainstream and honest at the same time. Now it's yours to listen to:
Song: Submarines
"Suits Were Made For Men Not Boys"
The second song that I fell in love with is not on the album, but it is my favorite song from them. Like the rest of the album, this song strongly shows their talent of telling a story through music, which is really the kind of music I like and miss from the modern music industry. Some songs don't need a lot of explanation - this is one of them:
Song: Don't Wanna Go
"Some Love Was Made For The Lights. Some Kiss Your Cheeks And Goodnight"
The next song is not the kind that will be released anytime soon - it's not very mainstream. It's one for the true fans and every album has 1 - 3 songs that are for the acoustic/slow-it-down and sing-beautiful-words fans, like me. This song (almost) didn't make the album but the Denver-Colorado trio fought hard to get it on the album. As you will hear - it wasn't recorded in a real studio and that's one of the reasons why it almost didn't make the final album. I'm glad it did because it's one of my favorites - it has a very raw and live feel to it and it makes the album more soulful than it already is:
Song: Slow It Down
Here are 4 + 1 bonus songs worth listening to:
Song: Classy Girls
Song: Dead Sea
Song: Big Parade
Song: Charlie Boy
Song: Flapper Girl
As much as I can encourage you to check out The Lumineers, they are simply a band that you'll either really dislike or really like. Their sound is not that mainstream but eccentric plus the lead singer is the total package eye candy. What you see and hear is what you'll get...they're as good on the album as they are live: eccentric, raw and honest!
Much Love & Music,
