Which Voice Contestants Went on to Real Fame? Check it Out

 

To Date, Here Are 5 of The Biggest Stars to Come Out of The Voice

You know, I've been a fan of The Voice for years—probably over a decade now. And thanks to the magic of TikTok, I've fallen down more than a few rabbit holes watching short clips from The Voice UK, The Voice Kids, and even auditions from countries I didn't expect—like Germany, Indonesia, and South Africa. There's something about those blind auditions and spinning chairs that just pulls me in every time.

After digging into the history of The Voice, I found a few fun factoids I thought you might like, too. The show actually started way back in 2010 in the Netherlands, created by John de Mol (yep, the same guy who helped create Big Brother). 

Since then, it's exploded across the globe with over 60 international versions. You can now catch The Voice in countries like the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Mexico, South Africa, Italy, Indonesia, the Philippines, Sweden, Argentina, and many more.

Now, while The Voice has given the world thousands of notable singers, not all of them have gone on to become household names. Who are some of the biggest stars to come out of The Voice? Who made a significant impact after the show was over?

"After conducting some research (and encountering a few surprises), I've found the following. By the way, this is my personal research; feel free to dispute any of these, or add people you think belong on this list! Leave your opinion in the comments." 

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🌟 Top 5 Most Successful Contestants from The Voice – Worldwide

These are the ones who not only wowed us on the show but also went on to sell records, earn awards, and build actual careers. Let's break it down:

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1. Morgan Wallen

(The Voice USA, Season 6 – 2014, Team Usher initially, then Team Adam)

Okay, so this one shocked even me. Morgan Wallen was actually eliminated early in the playoffs, but he's become the biggest success story ever from The Voice.

Why he's #1:

• 🎧 Record Sales & Streams:

  • Over 35 million equivalent album sales (EAS) globally

  • Dangerous: The Double Album broke all kinds of country music streaming records

  • One Thing at a Time dominated the charts for weeks

• 💵 Estimated Earnings:

  • Net worth estimated between $25–30 million and rising fast

• 🏆 Awards:

  • ACM Album of the Year

  • Billboard Music Awards

  • CMT Music Awards

  • Holds records for most weeks on Billboard Country Charts

Bottom line: He didn't win the show, but he definitely won real-life stardom.

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2. Melanie Martinez

(The Voice USA, Season 3 – 2012, Top 6 Finalist)

Melanie had a style all her own from the start—quirky, artistic, emotional. And it turns out that unique identity is precisely what carried her beyond the show.

What she's accomplished:

• 🎧 Album Sales & Streams:

  • Cry Baby was certified Double Platinum in the U.S.

  • Albums like K-12 and Portals have cult followings

  • Billions of streams across platforms

• 💵 Estimated Earnings:

  • Net worth somewhere around $10–12 million

• 🏆 Impact:

  • While she's not mainstream radio famous, she's a huge streaming success, especially among younger listeners on TikTok and Spotify.

  • Strong merchandise sales and sold-out tours

Bottom line: She has built a loyal fan base and a full-blown brand on her own terms.

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3. Jordan Smith

(The Voice USA, Season 9 – 2015, Winner – Team Adam)

Jordan Smith's voice is the kind that makes you stop what you're doing and just listen. He made history with his chart performance during the show and continued to do so afterward.

Highlights:

• 🎧 Sales & Chart Success:

  • Became the highest-selling Voice contestant on iTunes during his season

  • Albums charted on Billboard's Christian and Adult Contemporary charts

• 💵 Estimated Earnings:

  • Estimated net worth around $2–3 million

• 🏆 Awards & Recognition:

  • Wrote "Ashes" for Celine Dion (Deadpool 2 soundtrack)

  • Billboard chart-topper in the Christian music space

Bottom line: Jordan found his lane in Christian and inspirational music, and is thriving.

Here's Jordan Smith's blind audition:

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4. Cassadee Pope

(The Voice USA, Season 3 – 2012, Winner – Team Blake)

Cassadee brought her pop-punk background from the band Hey Monday into country music, making it work. She was the first female winner of The Voice USA and used the win to launch a solid country career.

Career Snapshot:

• 🎧 Sales:

  • Frame by Frame hit No. 1 on Billboard's Country Albums chart

  • Single "Wasting All These Tears" sold 125,000 copies in its first week

  • Duet "Think of You" with Chris Young went Platinum

• 💵 Estimated Earnings:

  • Estimated around $4–5 million

• 🏆 Awards:

  • Grammy nomination

  • CMT Music Award

  • ACM Award nomination

Bottom line: A fan favorite who turned her win into long-term respect in the country scene.

Cassadee Pope performed this song on The Voice, and ever since, it's held a special place in my heart. When my dad passed, I wept listening to it. Those tears were part of my healing. The original is by Miranda Lambert, and it still brings me back to that time.

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5. Koryn Hawthorne

(The Voice USA, Season 8 – 2015, 4th Place – Team Pharrell)

She didn't win the show, but she's dominating the gospel and Christian charts today.

Why she made the list:

• 🎧 Chart Success:

  • Unstoppable topped Billboard's Top Gospel Albums

  • Single "Won't He Do It" stayed at No. 1 for 41 weeks (that's almost a whole year!)

• 💵 Estimated Earnings:

  • Net worth estimated at around $1–2 million

• 🏆 Awards & Nominations:

  • 2 Grammy nominations

  • Billboard and Stellar Gospel Awards

Bottom line: She's a star in her genre, with one of the most consistent post-show careers.

Here's Koryn's blind audition:

🎬 Final Thoughts

So there you have it! While not every Voice contestant goes on to global superstardom, a few have carved out seriously successful careers. And what's fascinating is that most of them didn't even win, which shows that sometimes, winning the show isn't the only path to success.

Whether it's country chart domination, like Morgan Wallen, quirky theatrical pop, like Melanie Martinez, or inspirational gospel, like Koryn Hawthorne, these artists have found their unique lane.

And if you're like me and still find yourself watching audition clips at 1 AM from The Voice UK or The Voice Kids Philippines, it's kind of nice to know that the show really can change lives—and sometimes, lead to something bigger than anyone expected.

Do you have a personal favorite from The Voice over the years?

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From American Idol to Icon: Five of The Most Successful Contestants

 

Who Acquired the Most Success After American Idol? (It's Not Just the Winners!)

Have you ever caught yourself wondering, Whatever happened to all those American Idol contestants? Same here. Some of them disappeared, while others became megastars. Since the show first aired in 2002, American Idol has had 22 seasons (as of 2024), and over the years, it has produced a mix of one-hit wonders, quiet careers, and a few absolute powerhouses.

So I got curious and decided to dig into it—not just who won, but who actually made it big after the show. And I'm talking real-world success: money, record sales, awards, tours, TV deals, the whole thing. Some names will be prominent (hello, Carrie), and a couple might surprise you. Spoiler alert: you don't have to win to win big.

Here's my rundown of the top 5 highest-earning American Idol contestants of all time.

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1. Carrie Underwood (Season 4 – Winner)

Carrie is basically the gold standard of American Idol success. She won Season 4 back in 2005, beating Bo Bice, and then she just took off. 

With over 70 million records sold worldwide, she has had hit after hit in country music, as well as numerous crossover successes. She's racked up 8 Grammy Awards, 16 ACM Awards, and more than I can count. 

She also has a fitness clothing line, a book, and that epic Sunday Night Football theme song she's been doing for years.

Estimated net worth: $140 million+

Not bad for someone who started out singing in church choirs, right?

Here's my favorite Carrie Underwood song, "See You Again." I dedicate this to my parents, whom I miss beyond this world, as I'm sure some of you understand only too well. Do you have a favorite Carrie Underwood song?

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2. Kelly Clarkson (Season 1 – Winner)

Kelly was the original Idol—literally. She won the very first season in 2002, beating Justin Guarini, and has stayed in the spotlight ever since. She has sold over 25 million albums, won three Grammy Awards, and now hosts The Kelly Clarkson Show, which has earned her multiple Daytime Emmy Awards. She has also been a coach on The Voice and has released several hit albums along the way.

Estimated net worth: $50–60 million

She's a powerhouse and honestly feels like a friend you've known for a long time. And she's still going strong.

Here's my favorite Kelly Clarkson performance of all time. She performed this on Idol, and watching it live, I remember the tears pouring down my face. She was expecting at the time. I know her life has taken another direction since then with her spouse. However, there's no denying the power of this performance. 

Do you have a favorite Kelly Clarkson song?

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3. Jennifer Hudson (Season 3 – 7th Place!)

Jennifer didn't even make the top five in her season—she came in seventh. That was the same year Fantasia won the award. But talk about making a comeback! 

Jennifer starred in Dreamgirls and won an Oscar, which is already a considerable achievement, but she didn't stop there. 

She has also won a Grammy, a Tony, and an Emmy, making her an EGOT winner (a distinction held by very few people on the planet). She's now hosting The Jennifer Hudson Show and continues to act, sing, and perform.

Estimated net worth: $30–40 million

Proof that you don't have to win the show to win in the end.

This is my favorite, off-the-cuff performance by Jennifer Hudson! 

She's often a Judge on The Voice UK, and the Judges are known to spontaneously perform. Ms. Hudson DELIVERS on this one!

Additionally, this song holds a special meaning for me personally. Back in the day, I was a figure skater, and this was one of the songs I skated to for my solo performance in the local ice show. It made my dad cry, in a good way.

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4. Adam Lambert (Season 8 – Runner-Up)

Adam was the runner-up in Season 8 (Kris Allen won that year), but he's one of the biggest breakout stars in Idol history. 

He launched a solo career right away and then became the lead singer for Queen (yes, that Queen), touring the world with them as "Queen + Adam Lambert." 

He has sold over 5 million albums and 45 million singles, and his stage presence is truly next level.

Estimated net worth: $35 million+

He brought glam rock back and gave Queen a whole new chapter.

Adam Lambert is my favorite.

This performance at the Queen's Jubilee Party in 2022 is fun!

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5. Chris Daughtry (Season 5 – 4th Place)

Chris came in fourth during Season 5 (Taylor Hicks won, and Katharine McPhee was runner-up), but that didn't slow him down at all. He launched his band Daughtry right after and released a debut album that became one of the fastest-selling rock albums in history, with over 7 million copies sold. His gritty voice and rock style stood out at the time, and they still do.

Estimated net worth: $10 million+

He's stayed true to his sound and continues to tour and release music.

I don't have a favorite Chris Daughtry song, but this one shows his incredible voice.

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So—Who's Your Favorite?

That's my roundup! Whether they won, placed, or got eliminated early, these five made the most of their time on Idol. I'm always amazed at how different their paths turned out to be.

Do you have a favorite American Idol contestant or winner from over the years? Did someone surprise you on this list? I'd love to know who you think should've made it—or maybe who you wish had.

I just want to add that, in no way, do I believe that money "defines" a person. I'm very curious to know who benefited the most from their time on Idol, whether they won or not.

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Seasonlife Turntable Record Player Review

 For Fran's birthday this year, our daughter got her a Seasonlife turntable record player. It is something Fran has wanted for a long time. We have a huge collection of vinyl records that have been in storage for years, and now, we are enjoying them again.

In an age where digital music dominates, there's something uniquely satisfying about listening to vinyl records. We are old enough to remember when vinyl records were all we had for music besides the radio. 

Let's look back at how we listened to music over the years. After vinyl records came the 8-track tape players, cassette players, CDs, and digital downloads. I believe vinyl records are making a comeback. Our 18-year-old grandson Bobby, has a turntable and has started his own collection of vinyl records.

Features of our Seasonlife Turntable:

3-Speed Operation, It can play at 33 1/3, and 45 RPM a wide range of vinyl records.

Built-in Speakers: The turntable has integrated stereo speakers, providing a decent listening sound quality.

Bluetooth Connectivity: Bluetooth capability lets you stream wirelessly from your smartphone or other devices. 

Auto-Stop Function: This feature stops the turntable when the record ends, protecting your vinyl, and ensuring the needle doesn't wear down.

Our Seasonlife turntable delivers a warm rich sound and is easy to set up. We are now enjoying those wonderful sounds of the 70's along with some new vinyls we have purchased.

This Seasonlife Record Player is a perfect choice, whether you're looking to start or expand your vinyl collection, without breaking the bank.

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Record Player High Fidelity Turntable for Vinyl Records Built-in 4 Stereo Speakers All-in-One Vinyl Player Belt Drive Turn table MM Cartridge ATN-3600L Stylus 33 45 Speed BT Wireless Classic Black

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The Classic Record Player Stand - Reviewed

 In this age of digital streaming, there is something undeniably charming about spinning vinyl records on a classic turntable. Our daughter bought Fran a classic turntable for her birthday this year. Since we didn't have a place for it we had to find a record player stand. 

Fran began a search for what she wanted to buy for our new turntable. Yes, now we have another piece of furniture in the house. She found this Amil Series stand from Mazefur with more of a contemporary style. It's perfect for the new turntable and fits nicely in our living room.

The stand was very easy to assemble with excellent easy-to-follow instructions. The top surface offers a stable platform for our turntable, with enough space to accommodate even a larger model. 

The stand has a sleek pull-out drawer at the top, a shelf right below the drawer, and plenty of storage space for our extensive collection of vinyl records to be stored safely.

Many turntables on the market today have built-in CD players, ours does not. The shelf below the drawer will be perfect for a CD player, as we also have an extensive collection of CDs. The shelf has wire management access on the back panel for easy installation of the wires.

There are many styles of record player stands to choose from. We like the style of the one we purchased, but you can find many stands that offer a retro look to bring you back in time.

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Below are just a couple of styles you will find on Amazon.

 

Joaxswe Record Player Stand with Vinyl Record Storage,Rustic Blue Record Player Table Holds up to 160 Albums,Large Wood Turntable Stand Cabinet Dispaly Shelf for Living Room,Bedroom,Office

Possile Record Player Stand with Vinyl Record Storage, Mid-Century Turntable Stand for Living Room Bedroom Office, Record Player Table, Vinyl Holder Holds up to 100 Albums, Rustic Brown

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A Valentine's Day Music Collection

If you are looking for romantic Valentine's Day music, look no further. Take inspiration from this review of a few Valentine's Day music ideas. It includes a couple of my favorite soundtracks that are available on compact disc and a a couple of others that sound fantastic. I have arranged my picks by release date. Enjoy.

FRENCH KISS SOUNDTRACK (1995)

French Kiss is a great movie that also has a beautiful soundtrack with light pop music. The movie a very popular romantic comedy starring Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline. It features a variety of artists that you will recognize, including Van Morrison, Ella Fitzgerald and Zucchero. Find your copy of the French Kiss soundtrack here on Amazon.

CHOCOLATE SOUNDTRACK (2000)    

I will admit, I am biased because I thoroughly enjoyed the movie Chocolat but, regardless of whether or not you have seen the movie, if you appreciate instrumental music, you will find this soundtrack beautiful. The movie starred Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp and the CD transports you to the setting of the movie, small town France. It is a perfect backdrop for your Valentine's Day dinner.  Released in 2001, it contains about 40 minutes of perfectly romantic music. Find your copy of the Chocolat soundtrack here on Amazon.

DISNEY'S FAIRY TALE WEDDINGS (2005)

Another instrumental collection, people who love Disney's love stories will enjoy this compilation. It includes songs from Beauty and the Beast, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Lady and the Tramp and numerous other Disney shows. Whether you listen to this on a CD or through Amazon's streaming service, would be great background music for Valentine's Day. Find Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings here on Amazon.

MARTINA MCBRIDE'S MY HEART (2005)

Martina McBride’s CD My Heart was released by Hallmark for Valentine’s Day in 2005. It features eight romantic songs that were picked by McBride herself. Some are her own songs; others, covers. This CD is shorter than some but it was quite successful upon its release. McBride sounds lovely in this compilation, which is good for Valentine’s Day and any other romantic occasion even a wedding. If you want to add it to your collection note that I found a better selection of this CD from sellers on eBay. Look for Martina McBride's My Heart here on eBay.

VALENTINE'S DAY SOUNDTRACK (2010)

Released slightly more recently in 2010, the soundtrack to the Valentine's Day movie is another great choice. The movie included a wide variety of popular actors including Julia Roberts, Jamie Foxx and Anne Hathaway. The CD includes recordings from a wide variety of artists who you will recognize including the likes of Taylor Swift, Willie Nelson, Jewel, Amy Winehouse, Nat King Cole and Maroon 5. Find your copy of the Valentine's Day soundtrack here on Amazon.

NOW THAT'S WHAT I CALL A LOVE SONG (2023)

Definitely the newest in this series, this set was released in February of 2023 from the people who have presented more than 110 CDs in the NOW Music series. This compilation is packed with new and old love songs by artists you know including but not limited to the likes of Ed Sheeran, Fugees, Sam Smith, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Elton John, Sting, Billy Joel, Norah Jones, Seal, Lana Del Ray, Kacey Musgraves, Nelly Furtado, Miley Cyrus, Dua Lipa, Ariana Grande, Kylie Minogue, Little Mix, Justin Bieber, John Mayer, Cold Play, Pretenders, Robbie Williams and Christina Aguilera. I think this one would make great listening for anyone but would be especially fun for a mixed generation gathering since it presents something for everyone. Find your copy of Now That's What I Call A Love Song here on Amazon. If you want a mix of music that includes today's artists, this is the compilation for you.

Do you have any favorite Valentine's Day music?

Happy Valentine's Day!

Brenda

Treasures By Brenda

QUICK LINKS:

Discover the movie CHOCOLAT.

Love chocolate and France? You will enjoy the movie Chocolat!

Discover the French Kiss movie and soundtrack.

Yes, I love French Kiss. Learn more here.

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3 Inspirational Songs to Sing When Your Spirit Needs A Boost

Today's review is about finding peace in a busy and often chaotic world.

When my soul needs a boost, I sing. At night, I'll play various lyric videos and blast out every word as loud as I choose.

I've long since stopped being self-conscious about it. My boys hear me singing all the time. I actually love that they hear their mother singing; I like to think I'm teaching them to be brave. It's also a way for them to see me making time to feed the soul.

For two years now, I've actively taken steps to balance in my mind, body, and spirit. 

For the body, I've lost over 60 pounds on Keto. 

For the mind, I've written nine books in a year, and for my spirit, I sing and listen to this spiritual channel on YouTube. 

No, I'm not superwoman. I turned 60 in 2020 and made a decision that, before that monumental milestone birthday, I was going to tick off some boxes on my 'get-er-done beyatch' list. 

So I stopped the talk, and walked the walk.

Today I'd like to pass along some of my personal choice lyric videos. Sing along, or just enjoy the words and message.

1. Don't Give Up on Me by Andy Grammer

This is a bounce-in-your-chair song. There's a section of lyric I use as inspiration to continue writing my riddle books. At 60, I'm just getting started, so yah, don't give on me. If you're viewing via mobile, the lyric video is here.

"Cause I'm not givin' up,

I'm not givin' up, givin up, no, not yet,

Even when I'm down to my last breath

Even when they say there's nothing' left,

So don't give up on me"

 

2. You Say by Lauren Daigle

This is one of the most famous Christian songs to reach number one on the Hot Christian Songs chart. It stayed there for 113 weeks, and that alone was a record. It also charted on the Billboard Top 100, Contemporary Chart, and the Mainstream and Adult Top 40 charts.

This song is my anthem for handing over my issues to a higher power. It reminds me what's possible when I let go and simply believe in a greater purpose. Mostly, it humbles me. I'm sure you've heard it. If not, be sure to listen; it's a gorgeous song. If you're reading this via mobile, the video is here.

"You say I am loved when I can't feel a thing,

you say I am strong when I think I am weak,

And you say I am held, when I am falling short,

and when I don't belong, oh you say I am Yours,

And I believe, oh I believe

What you say to me, oh I believe,

Taking all I have and now I'm laying it at your feet,

you have every failure God, You have every victory" 

3. The Most Beautiful Things, by Tenille Townes

When you need a song that reminds you of how small yet significant we all are, this is the go-to spiritual fix. This song is my universal remote for traveling away from earthly problems. If you're reading this via mobile, the video is here.

" So why do we close our eyes,

when we pray, cry, kiss, dream,

Maybe the most beautiful things in this life

are felt, and never seen"

Spiritual Medicine

We're all struggling in one way or another. I fight darkness with light. 

In 2013, the year my father died, I decided to find my way through darkness, fear, and especially over-thinking by learning more about what lives on when we physically don't. As mentioned above, it's this YouTube channel that guided me out, and I believe, through.

One particular video struck me with how dark energy (whatever you want to call it) tries to feed on us around the clock. We need tools in our toolbox to fight back. Repeating Psalm23 was one suggestion. You can select anything spiritual to repeat.

As soon as my thoughts tailspin into a whirlpool of 'what-ifs", I repeat Psalm23 in my mind. In fact, I've written it on a card and placed it near my computer. When darkness creeps in, I read the card. Sometimes I'll simply repeat the first few lines over and over until the dark path my thoughts were heading to disappears.

There's a saying that "95% of what we worry about never happens". With that in mind, I work to turn that 95% into positive thought.

Here's a video written and created by me in January 2020 to celebrate light and love. If you're viewing via mobile, here's the video link.

Blessings to you and your family for this coming Easter weekend.

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Mamma Mia Movie Review

I was a teenager in the '70s and of course, loved the music. In 1972 the Swedish group ABBA became popular. Their music topped the charts worldwide from 1974 to 1982. ABBA's music is so uplifting and is such feel-good music.

In 1999 a successful broadway musical hit the stage "Mamma Mia" the name of ABBA's 1975 top hit. The Broadway Musical became a hit that has since played in 40 countries and all 6 continents and has incorporated so many of ABBA's hit songs.

Mamma Mia came to theaters in Toronto in 2000. We live in Western New York so it was easy for us to get there in 2003. Watching this Broadway Musical live was just amazing. The music of ABBA was so fantastic and uplifting. Their music just gives me that all over good feeling.

Mamma Mia Movie Review

In 2008 the Broadway Musical was adapted into a movie. After seeing the Broadway Musical there was no way that I was going to miss this movie. 

Movie Plot:

The story is about Donna played by (Meryl Streep), and her daughter Sophie played by (Amanda Seyfried).

Donna and Sophie live on a small Greek Island. Donna owns a villa and tries to run it as a hotel, unsuccessfully. Sophie is about to be married and would love that her father is able to walk her down the aisle. The only problem is that Sophie has no idea who her father is.

Sophie sneaks a peek at Donna's old diary. She finds the names of three men that her mother was intimate with from her mother's younger days. Sophie is convinced that of these three men is her father. 

Sophie sends wedding invitations to all three men and signs her mother's name, in hopes that she will know her father once she gets to spend some time with him.

The three men arrive on the island, Sam Carmichael the architect played by (Pierce Brosnan), Harry Bright the British banker played by (Colin Firth), and Bill Anderson the Swedish sailor, traveler, and writer played by (Stellan Skarsgard).

Sophie explains to the three that she is the one who sent the invitations in hopes of finding out who her father is. I'll stop here just in case you haven't seen Mamma Mia. Trust me, this movie is full of laughs and the amazing music of ABBA.

Ten years later in 2018, a sequel was released. "Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again" Featuring most of the original cast and some surprise superstars. The sequel starts out in present-day but reflects back on Donna's life and how she ended up on the island and how she met her three lovers.

Both of these movies are worth the time. They are filled with laughter and ABBA's upbeat and feel-good music.

Just in case you don't remember, here is the original 1975 hit Mamma Mia by ABBA

I'm sure these two movies are streaming on Netflix or Amazon Prime. If not you can buy the DVD's

Mamma Mia! The Movie (Widescreen) by Universal Studios by Phyllida LloydMamma Mia! Here We Go Again [Blu-ray]

 C

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My Three Favorite Songs About America - Music for Your July 4th Weekend

Celebrating July 4th - My three favorite songs about America

As your Canadian neighbor, I've grown up on all things Canadian and American. It's always been the music that had me at hello - from both of our countries.

I was a young child in the 1960s, and a teenager in the 1970s and honestly feel for people who didn't get to live in those decades, lol: The clothes, the hair, the music, the tv shows! Before there was internet, bank cards, and cell phones - it was the best!

My Three Favorite Songs About America - Spanning Mulitple Decades

1. America The Beautiful

The first time I heard America The Beautiful was in the late 1960s featured in the movie Pollyanna. The song was sung by Haley Mills, and as an 8-year-old, I was utterly mesmerized. I actually had the album from the film and could be heard continually singing America The Beautiful. Pollyanna was originally a 1913 novel written by Eleanor H. Porter and was made into multiple movie versions. The 1960 Disney version of the movie was the one that got me hooked as a little girl.

Here's a Gorgeous Rendition of America The Beautiful by The United States Navy Band - Enjoy!

2. America by Neil Diamond

This song still gives me chills! Of course, the first time I heard it was in the 1980 remake of the film classic The Jazz Singer featuring Neil Diamond. If you've never seen this movie, treat yourself! The film stars Neil Diamond, Laurence Olivier, and Luci Arnaz. The video below features the final scene of the movie when Neil Diamond belts out the moving song about the American dream ... America.

3. American Heart by Faith Hill

The song is fantastic, but it's the combination of the video with the song that takes it to the next level. The song was written by Jim Beavers and Jonathan Singleton, and the video features Faith Hill along with 10-year-old T.J. Jones performing a Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers inspired dance number. The lyrics primarily focus on the resilience of the American heart. It's my favorite country song about America. If you need more songs about America, I've put together a playlist featuring additional country tunes here.

Happy 4th to my American neighbors xxoo

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Merry Christmas and Blessings for a Happy New Year!

Christmas morning has arrived and before all the hustle and bustle begins, I would love for you to take just a moment for you!

Close your eyes, and remember the first time you held your baby.  If you don't have children, the first time you felt that spark of love.

Hold that feeling in your heart for the day and really, really enjoy those around you!

May your Christmas be Blessed, by the Child Jesus in whose name we celebrate Family, Friends and the love we should have for all of our human family.

God Bless you all!

May music fill your heart and soul with the love and peace of the Season!


 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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Freegal Review: Free Music Downloads

The journey through cutting the cable cord continues! It has been a indeed a journey and  cutting the cord is easy. What is not as easy is finding affordable content that is easy to access and user friendly to replace cable content! I happened upon Freegal when researching the free digital content available from my local library.

What Is Freegal?

Freegal is a music library offered through your local library. Music can be downloaded for free with a weekly limit of downloads. The music library includes Sony's music catalog and a reported catalog of over 15 million songs. 

How User Friendly Is Freegal?

As you can see below, I am limited to five downloads per week. The number of downloads per user per week is determined by the package purchased by your library.

It is easy to access Freegal. Simply navigate to the Freegal website and log in with your library membership information. Or enter Freegal through your library digital menu with your library membership number.

The Freegal menu for desktop is self explanatory. The songs can be previewed prior to downloading. I did not find the search feature overly helpful for browsing. However, if you are searching for a particular artist versus general browsing the search engine is adequate.

The library can also be accessed with Apps from Google Play and Apple App Store.

As with any new service or app there is a small learning curve to use the service. Freegal is easy to use and the music can be downloaded easily with the click of the mouse. Check with your local library to see if Freegal is included with your library membership.

Cutting the cable has been an interesting experience. Freegal is the third service reviewed which offers free content. The search for additional user friendly and robust sources of free content continues!

Where To Find Free Content For Cord Cutters

Hoopla - Hoopla offers free books, movies and television shows through your local library.

Kanopy- Kanopy offers free movies with an emphasis on Indie films and documentaries.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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