Showing posts with label music. Show all posts
Showing posts with label music. Show all posts

Monday, February 22, 2016

Whale Music Book Review

Whale Music Book Review
Sex, drugs and rock and roll. After reading the innocent sounding title, Whale Music, you might be surprised to find that this book has all of those things and more.  In the end, however, it turns out to be an interesting story of betrayal, of breaking away and of redemption.

Penthouse magazine called Whale Music, "The best novel written about rock 'n' roll."

In his award-winning book, Whale Music, Paul Quarrington tells the story of a successful rock star turned recluse, of the path that took him there and of his current reality.

"Naked, rich and fabulously deranged, he subsists on a steady diet of whiskey, pharmaceuticals and jelly doughnuts and occasionally works on his masterpiece, Whale Music."

If the plot line sounds familiar at all, that could be because it is based on a real person. My book club read this book and wondered aloud during our discussion if it was based on someone in real life and, as it turns out and according to Quarrington's own words, it was.

Whale Music was loosely based on the life and times of Brian Wilson of Beach Boys fame. Quarrington said that the book came after he thought, "I bet I can construct a set of circumstances where scurrying under the blankies and hiding your head for a year is the most sane and the most rational response to what's going on." Wilson is rumoured to have said that it is the best book that he has read about the Beach Boys. You can hear the author discuss Whale Music on CBC by clicking here.

Being the winner of prestigious literary awards like the Stephen Leacock award and the Governor General's award does not necessarily make a book one that you would recommend though I will admit to eventually being taken in my Quarrington's main character, Des Howell. However, I also spent much of the booking waiting to see what was going to happen. In the end, I did want to know whether Howell survived or even emerged from his destructive lifestyle and what happened to his alien friend.

Would I recommend this book? Well, I am not sure. If you have a keen interest in the lives of the rich and famous, yes I would though remember that this book is fiction. Other caveats are the drugs and alcohol though if sad I did not find them very disturbing to read. Also, you will have to be able to overlook numerous references to sex though I no longer remember if any actually took place in the book. Certainly they were not described in great detail, which makes the sex in this book tame, if you can say that though certainly referenced a lot. If you want an easy-to-read though because of the subject matter not exactly fluffy book that is often times funny, yes and it was funny from the very first lines...

"There is a toe sticking out from underneath a green blanket on my living room sofa..."

You can read more about Whale Music on Amazon by clicking right here.

Happy Reading!
Brenda
Treasures By Brenda

Quick Links:

Read more about Paul Quarrington in this CTV article that appeared after he passed away in 2010.





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


Friday, February 19, 2016

Music by Don Francisco - Christian Singer, Songwriter & Musician

Do You Know this Man's Name?
Don Francisco
Music has been a driving force in my life for as long as I can remember.  Over the years, many singers and their songs have touched my heart and they have left an indelible mark.  But, there are a few who have touched my soul.  Their lyrics have spoken to the very deepest part of my being.

One such writer who has the ability to write a song with such simplicity, but with great depth, is Don Francisco.  I first heard him sing in the 70's, but his music and songs still play in my head.  I raised my children singing his "Lullaby" to them at bedtime.  There have been times when my faith was bolstered by recalling the lessons his lyrics teach.  Then there were other times when I was able to remember a bible story because I remembered his song.

While he may not have received tremendous accolades on this earth, his voice or style may not appeal to everyone, and his name may not be a household word, there is no question he will receive rewards in heaven.  His voice is pleasing to God and the only One who matters in the end knows his name.

If you have never heard of him, let me introduce you.  If you already know who he is, enjoy the memories by listening to his music below.   

I have included 7 different music videos in this article.  You may not have time to listen to all of them right now, so be sure to bookmark this article and return to listen to them one at a time, when you have time.

Oh, I should tell you, he writes all of his own music. 


Lullaby by Don Francisco 


This is the lullaby I referred to earlier in the introduction.

Even as an adult, I appreciate the reminder that Christ is right here with me while I sleep.  I love the line "With the peace that Jesus brings."   It is only with these assurances that I find rest myself.




The Best Known Song by Don Francisco ~ "He's Alive" 


This is the song that first draw my attention to Don Francisco.  He opened a concert for the Gaithers once when I was in attendance and this song received a standing ovation.  Honestly, I think he stole the show. 

It is a song that describes the events that followed the crucifixion of Christ.  It is told from the stand point of the disciple, Peter.   So many of us can identify with Peter.




Why I Admire Don Francisco


There are several reasons, aside from writing wonderful lyrics, that I admire Don Francisco. 

He has a very unassuming presence when he sings.  Usually it is only Don and his guitar sitting on a stool center stage.  No major production, no fancy costumes, no theatrical presentation, just a jean clad regular guy praising God. 

His wife, Wendy, often accompanies him.  Not just in person, but also on the guitar.  He doesn't look to the crowd for reassurance or praise for himself.  As a matter of fact, I don't know if he even looks at the crowd but he still somehow connects with them. 



 

One of my Favorites ~ "I Don't Care Where You've Been Sleeping" 


This song is now one of my favorites.  I remember my first thoughts about this song vividly, I thought it was shocking

My favorite bible verses can be found in Psalms 139.  Frankly, I love the whole chapter, but there is one verse that says "If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, Thou art there."  

Once I made the association between the scripture and the song, I readily embraced the lyrics. 

Oh, so many people need to hear this message:  "There's no sin you could imagine that is stronger than My love"





Teaching with Lyrics ~ Balaam


This song lays out the story of Balaam's encounter with an angel in a way that is easy to follow and memorize.  Believe me when I say, if you don't know the story of Balaam before you hear the song, you will never forget it after you hear this song.

You catch a real glimpse of Don Francisco's wit in this song.  The deliverance of the song and story is lighthearted, fun and humorous, but scripturally accurate.   What I love most about this bible story is that God used an animal to deliver His message.





The Storyteller ~ Adam Where Are You? 


In this song Don Francisco shows his remarkable ability to "string a phrase" and tell a story. 

This is one of those songs that tell the story so well that in my mind I can just envision the scenes unfolding and my heart breaks for God and Adam.

I also know He continues to call out to all of us.  






Too Small A Price by Don Francisco 


If you don't have the time to listen to any or all of the others songs featured here now, at least Listen to this one!

This song is written from the perspective of the thief on the cross next to Christ.  

There are several messages in this song.  I suspect which one speaks to you will depend on where you are in life.  Over the last 40 years of listening to this song, I can tell you from experience, perspective matters.  The message I heard when I was a teenager was different than the one I hear today due to the verse and lyrics that capture my focus. 


 

 

Albums by Don Francisco

Don Francisco has a number of albums that he has recorded. These are the albums that include the songs featured in this article. 




Reviewing Music by Don Francisco was Written by:
House of Sylvestermouse





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


Saturday, December 26, 2015

Bose Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones Review

The best way to listen to the new music gifts you receive or acquire – without interruption and interference by other noises – is with a pair of noise cancelling headphones

Bose Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones



Why we like the Bose Headphones


A few years ago, a gift to ourselves was the Bose Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones. There are other brands out there, but after doing our research we were sold on these made by Bose.


Many people are interested in using noise cancelling headphones to reduce unwanted and distracting noise when listening to music and other audio performances. We wanted that too, but for a slightly different reason. Since reaching 'grandparent age' we discovered that the unwanted noise around us was more than just a distraction to the music we were listening to. We actually were having trouble "hearing" the music. Older 'ears' just couldn't hear as well!


For whatever reason you might choose a noise cancelling headphone set, we think you would be very pleased with the innovative combination of the best noise reduction technology and the best headphone audio performance of the QuietComfort Acoustic Noise Cancelling headphones by Bose


Bose Headphones come in various sizes and styles

Bose Headphones Sets
Bose Headphone Sets


There is a headphone style to suit everyone!


We chose the Bose headphones that fully cover your ears as it eliminates almost all extraneous noise. But many styles are available to suit any activity. A smaller and lighter version is great for airline travel for working on a laptop computer or listening to music during flight. There are 'around-the-ear' headphones like ours, in-ear headphones and the on-ear style. 


Singing Along to the Music... While Listening to our Bose Headphones


My husband, Bob liked to lie down on the couch with his headphones on, while listening to his favorite music. Often he would 'sing along', and have his eyes closed. The Bose headphones shut out extraneous noises so well, he couldn't hear me call him. I'd have to touch him on the shoulder to get his attention.

I'm introducing hubby with this image of a Monkey DJ because he was a broadcaster during his working career, beginning with DJ work at radio stations.

The monkey image is from his long-time joke when asked what he wanted for our first expected child - a boy or a girl - and his answer was ~ 'a chimpanzee!' :-)



Our Bose Headphones work great with the Bose Portable CD Player

 

Bose portable CD player
Bose PM-1 Portable CD Player

When we ordered our Bose headphones, we also ordered the Bose Model PM-1 Portable Compact Disc Player. Bose headphones will plug into a number of audio devices, but since we did not have a portable CD player at the time, we decided to get this one from Bose, along with the headphones. It is a nice set and has given us many hours of listening pleasure.


Listening to our Music...

Our Favorite Sounds - Folk Music - From the '60s!

 

Your blog author wearing her Bose headphones



Among the many vintage LPs, music tapes and CDs we own, a large percentage are of folk artists from the era of our college days ~ yep, the late 50s to mid 60s!  The music CD here "The Golden Age of American Popular Music - The Folk Hits" has selections covering our most favorite era, the top folk songs from 1958 to 1966.  On this CD are many of our favorite artists of that time, along with the songs that were highly popular, reaching Billboard's Hot 100 list.  The list contains songs such as If I Had A Hammer by Peter, Paul & Mary, Tom Dooley by The Kingston Trio (our all-time favorite folk group), Michael (Row the Boat Ashore) by the Highwaymen, and OUR SONG (Greenfields by The Brothers Four). We know every word to every song!

The Doobie Brothers - Listen to the Music

 

 


My favorite music is 1960s Folk Music.  What's your favorite music? Listen to it with ease and high quality sound with a Bose headphone. 

The Sound Quality of the Bose Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones is.... Out of this World!


 










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


Sunday, December 6, 2015

Begin Again - A Movie Worth Watching

Have You Seen the Movie Begin Again?

It's all about FEELING. You'll Feel from the beginning to the end, And When it Ends, you'll Want More.

Begin Again, starring Keira Knightley and, Mark Ruffalo, and Adam Levine, transports you to a place where the ugliness of personal mistakes takes a back seat. At the same time, you become a participant in the artist's musical life. The music is the focus; the characters follow, and everything works. 
If along with realism, music and art, you intimately understand the hidden mystique of a city, you'll feel even more from this movie
The story centers around the once Grammy Award-winning success of Dan Mulligan. Still, currently, down-on-his-luck character Dan Mulligan, played by Ruffalo, meets a recently heartbroken yet fiercely independent singer-songwriter, Gretta James, played by Knightley. They decided to make an outdoor album with each song performed in different locations of New York City, making this the energy that fuels the music. The city's heart automatically beats with the music, and although the city isn't directly a dramatized focal point, its pulsating imperfections connect every aspect to the characters.

If you're drawn to movies that depict the intimate flaws of people but can still manage to ooze beauty via the complex backdrop of urban life and the souls within, this one wins.

Some Movie Facts:
  • Begin Again premiered in September 2013 at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
  • Keira Knightley learned to sing and play guitar for the movie
  • The song 'Lost Stars' was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song
  • Fans of The Voice will remember Adam Levine performing Lost Stars with Season 7 finale contestant Matt McAndrew
  • The soundtrack for the movie was released in June 2014, with most of the songs performed by Knightley and Levine.
Lost Stars, a magnificent song, is now part of my playlist. Here's the video of Adam Levine performing Lost Stars, from the scene in the movie:

Personally Speaking, Begin Again is among my top ten all-time favorite movies. Mark Ruffalo's character is powerful; he is also one of my famous actors... and I also appreciate what he stands for off-screen.

by Barbara Tremblay Cipak
Drageda.com




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


Saturday, May 23, 2015

Introducing Singer-Songwriter Stephen Cuthbert

Stephen Cuthbert
Stephen Cuthbert on YouTube

Stephen John Cuthbert, born in 1985, is a dedicated and talented singer-songwriter from North East England's pretty seaside resort of Redcar. Recently, I had the opportunity to ask Stephen about his passion for music, and I wasn't surprised to learn that music has been a part of his life since he was little.
As we all know, it takes a great deal of talent to be a songwriter, and Stephen has a creative knack for bringing together descriptive, heartfelt lyrics with catchy and appealing sounds. In fact, you would think, by the album Stephen put together last year, that he had been writing music all his life. However, he pointed out that although he's always maintained a deep connection to music, he didn't, in fact, get down to writing his own songs until 2013....and get down to writing he did! His self-titled album, Here and Standing, offers 11 original songs, featuring the first song he ever wrote called 'Money Tree.'
Stephen's Songwriting Inspiration
When asking Stephen where he gets his inspiration to write, he indicated he 'usually needs to be in a particular mood, but that most of his lyrics come to him as he's about to drop off to sleep at night'...which is why he keeps his iPhone handy to quickly jot his new ideas down!
I was curious to know what comes first - the music or the lyrics - and he said he does not have a set pattern when he writes; sometimes, a particular chord sequence will come to mind, and he'll adjust the lyrics to fit. But he also states the reverse happens; he can write a full song and then fit the music around it. Although he's in the early stages of his career, he's open to writing songs for other artists, so he knows how to attack a songwriting project from any angle.
Famed musical inspirations include Elvis Presley, Michael Buble, and Trace Adkins. Stephen points out that he's not isolated to one particular genre and writes for numerous genres, including country.
Anything is Possible
Stephen remembers seeing the famed X Factor success story James Arthur playing local pubs in his area before being discovered. He says, "It really hit home how if you stick to your dreams, eventually you will get to where you want to be." Perseverance should never be underestimated.



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


Sunday, December 28, 2014

Bruno Mars Spectacular 2012 Grammy Performance

Bruno Mars Doo-Wops and Hooligans on Amazon
Years before Bruno Mars became a mainstream talent, I remember my 'anti-mainstream son' calling me over to his computer to watch 'this really talented guy'...named Bruno Mars

My son, who's in a pop-punk band, must have an eye for talent because he also introduced me to Jason Mraz and The Fray before both were really well known.

Bruno Mars & the Hooligans 2012 Grammy Performance

If you search YouTube, you'll find a few videos of the 2012 Grammy performance. I had a video featured here, but unfortunately, they come and go on YouTube, so it's best to search for yourself.

After the Grammys, I searched to listen to other song performances: Britain's The X Factor, 'La Maroquinerie in Paris, The Jungle Tour, The Today Show, and many more! Their performance on The X Factor has a severely respectable 4.7 million views,  and it's great! However, I really enjoyed the Paris performance of Runaway (there's a bit of 'language' in the beginning). It's more of an intimate setting, making you feel like you're crashing a private party!

Here's the Paris Performance!


(Warning: Language in this Video)

Bruno Mars is the best all-around entertainer since Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson!

He's the total package; wicked fierce talent, charismatic sex appeal, and can he dance! He also has a deep demographic reach. He's a multi-generational talent, and although the younger generation may not appreciate the value of being able to attract all ages, it's rare. It's one of the first signs that a star has the gift of 'staying power.

A little about The Song Runaway by Bruno Mars and the Hooligans
You'll find the song Runaway on the studio album Doo-Wops & Hooligans. It was released on October 4, 2010. The doo-wop sound of the album was chosen to appeal to a broad range of listeners from both genders. The album charted all over the world! If you remember the song, 'Just the Way You Are,' it was the lead single and stood at number 1 for four weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. This album features numerous hit songs; Grenade, Just the Way You Are, Runaway Baby, and Marry You - every song on this album is a hit.




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


Sunday, September 21, 2014

Dirt, by Florida Georgia Line - The Best Song in Country Music!

Dirt by Florida Georgia Line on Amazon
I may be the biggest fan of this riveting country song by Florida Georgia Line called 'Dirt'. Well,  maybe not the biggest, because as I predicted, the song hit number 1 in both Canada and the US on the Hot Country Billboard Charts. No surprise; right now I'm calling it the best overall country song in the history of country music. Now how's that for being a big fan!

What makes this song unbeatable is the artistic amalgamation of every contributing aspect needed to achieve a winning country song; the video, music, lyrics, and most of all the story. However it's the video that will take you into the depth of it's meaning to show you the message.

I'm such a huge fan of the story and lyrics, that I also penned another personal review here about it, as well as featured it numerous times on the Country Music Fan Review Facebook Page: Can you tell I'm a fan yet?

I'm sure my neighbors hear me blast it on my TV when it's on CMT's Top 20!

The Story of 'Dirt' by Florida Georgia Line

The song begins with an elderly man and his  family about to say their goodbyes to their wife/mother/grandmother at her grave on their property, the same property they all built a beautiful life on. The video floats between their youth and the gut wrenching  goodbye.

The Impact of the Song on Those Who are Older

Both my husband and I have shed tears watching this video. The younger generation may not feel the impact of this song as much as we do, but at our stage in life, the song is very real. The first time I played it for my husband, I turned around to look at him, and he had a tear rolling down his face. Having recently lost my father, the lyric '..you know you came from it, and one day you'll return it...' hits hard.

Originally the band didn't want to include the above line in the song as they felt it was cliche, but in my opinion it's the line that ties together the entire story of 'Dirt'

Another head turning lyric is 'Makes you wanna a build a 10 percent down, white picket fence house on this Dirt' - The first time I heard the song I was walking into my bedroom; the TV was tuned to the country music channel, and while sitting at my desk I hear this lyric, turn my head and am completely drawn into the story from beginning to end.

The story of the life of this couple is symbolically delivered through the well written lyrics and music by Rodney Clawson and Chris Tompkins:
"It’s that elm shade, red rust clay you grew up on
That plowed-up ground that your dad damned his luck on
That post-game party field you circle up on
And when it rains you get stuck on
Drift a cloud back behind county roads that you run up
The mud on her jeans that she peeled off and hung up
Her blue-eyed summertime smile looks so good that it hurts
Makes you wanna build a ten percent down white picket fence house on this dirt"
Another reason I find myself drawn to the song is watching the young duo from Florida Georgia Line, Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard play their guitars in the video. They remind me of my second son, especially with the Tattoos on the arm, who's also in a band and plays guitar. Watching these young men sing a song that represents the story of an elderly man and his lifetime with his family moves me tremendously; I remember being 21 years old, and just starting out with my husband like it was yesterday, and in a blink our boys are grown young men.

Life colors itself very differently when you're older. Our greatest joy is hugging our boys, no matter how tall they get. And like this elderly man, reflecting upon what's been built, the love of each other and family, is what, in the end, matters most.

Take a Few Minutes and Don't Miss This Song! It's Worth Your Time - Give Special Attention to the  Lyrics and Video; Magnificent:





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


Saturday, August 23, 2014

Today I'm Gonna Try and Change the World

Do you believe you can change the world?

When you listen to the lyrics of Canadian Country Artist Johnny Reid's song 'Today I'm Gonna Try and Change the World,' you'll hear how the most minor actions by one person to another can make the most significant difference. It's in the giving that we receive.
(Lyrics) "I'm gonna say hello to my neighbor, Greet him with a smile, Shake the hand of a stranger, Sit and talk for a while, Tell someone I love them from the bottom of my heart"
Most of us understand that it's the little things we do in a day that make the most significant impact, 
Today I'm going to change the world

especially for those we love.

The lyrics to this country song speak about how today he's going to greet his neighbor with a smile, and thinking about it, sometimes our face is void of a smile without our even being aware of it. We're not intentionally being unkind; it's often because we're preoccupied or stressed.

If we look at smiling the way we look at taking a vitamin, brushing our teeth, or any other essential daily activity, we might change the world.
 

We need a viral social campaign called 'Giving out Smiles to Change the World' 

Can you imagine millions or even billions of people doing this! Picture this: no matter our struggles or stresses, we look up at one or more than one person every single day, then kindly acknowledge them with a big toothy grin or a compassionate smile that connects our eyes to theirs! The sheer collective energy this would generate from people worldwide could fuel a country similar to the concept presented in the popular kid's movie, 'Monsters Inc.'

Even the most cynical among us feel a sense of possibility with a simple smile or hug. The power of good outweighs the power of bad so much that I'll go out on a limb and say it's immeasurable. Yes, we've all been through terrible things in our lives, some more than others, but none of us get out alive without a lesson to learn, a contribution to make, or a hand to hold. No one is perfect; we're all students of the human condition.

Johnny Reid's uncomplicated lyrics get straight to the message...Today, he's going to try and change the world. You can find more about Johnny's terrific award-winning music on his website; this song is for download here.

Go forth and smile ... changing the world requires a paradigm shift of monumental proportions started by just one person. Thank you, Mr. Johnny Reid.









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


Monday, August 18, 2014

Is Your Give A Damn Busted! Country Songs When You're Mad!

2 Country Songs to Play When You're Mad

Do you have an emotional limit? ... A line that, once crossed, there's no returning from? Then hold on to your short hairs; you need a theme song to go with that kiss-my-bleep attitude!


Count on country music to come up with a song that tells it like it is. When we're not feeling tolerant of anyone or anything, the last thing we need to hear is a typically useful saying like 'turn lemons into lemonade,' when really we would prefer to turn lemons into simulated road kill!

My Give A Damn's Busted, by Jo Dee Messina





So don't deny your fed-up status; claim it! Go ahead and scream out these words to anyone who'll listen, and if they're not willing to listen, open a window and let the neighborhood know that your 'Give a Damn is Busted'... <---maybe that's not a good idea?

Considering the damaging effects of anger and frustration on the body, it's a good idea to play both songs when you've maxed out your patience!

Here's another 'shove-it' country tune you can amp up when you need to wipe away those tears. If all you wanna be is Done, then 'Done' by the Band Perry is one hundred percent about just that...you've had enough garbage, and you've decided to stop letting someone or something rent space in your head; you're done!

Done, by The Band Perry




So get whatever you're fed up with out of your system, and remember, it's ok to be mad for a while. But not for too long ... feel the pain, go through it, and get past it. Then celebrate your life changes with a huge glass of lemonade!

If you're a fan of a particular country artist or song, don't hesitate to share your reviews, opinions, or videos here on the Facebook Country Music Fan Review Page! It's a terrific way to support your favorite artists!

By Barbara Tremblay Cipak
Country Music Reviewer




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


Sunday, August 10, 2014

A Relaxing Country Song About the Beauty of Unwinding on a Sunday


A Relaxing Country Song About Unwinding on a Sunday
by Zazzle.com/originalquotes

That's What I Love About Sunday, by Craig Morgan

Relax and listen to Craig's video featured below while you read! 


Does your own life allow you to have a do-nothing day on Sundays? I hope so.

Your rest time may land on another day of the week. Again, I hope you get that weekly break you deserve. After all, what's it all for if we can't stop and enjoy the company of those we love.

There's something powerfully productive about doing nothing at all, and let's face it, many of us need to master the art of  'stopping'  ... especially with 24-7 access to the internet. So, what in the world are you doing here on this page! Go rest!! Oh yeah, I forgot; you're looking for a country song about Sundays - one you can play while you take that much-needed sunny day stroll.

(Lyrics) 'That's what I love about Sunday, cat-napping on the porch swing, you curled up next to me, the smell of jasmine wakes us up, take a walk down a back road.'

There's clear evidence that life is getting more challenging for our kids ... not as easy as it's supposed to be. Neil Howe, Contributor for Forbes Magazine, provides an exciting and detailed explanation in his article "Generations in Pursuit of the American Dream" of how every generation, up until now, has had it better than their parents. You may be wondering what this has to do with relaxing on a Sunday to a soothing country tune ... well, as per the principle of Ockham's razor, 'the simplest explanation is usually the better one,' and the simplest explanation is this:

With the constant worries of life, like work, family, and money, our ability to decompress becomes an integral part of 'getting through it all.' To successfully tackle our life challenges, we must find balance  ... more so today than any other time.

That's where the art of telling stories, primarily found in country music, can play a role: The lyrics help our mind paint a picture of what an emotion really means. The story helps us feel the song; those feelings govern thought, and our thoughts control our beliefs, and in turn, our beliefs then govern our actions. So go ahead and unwind! Not only will your mind thank you, but so will your body.

Storytelling in country music, whether it's new country or that old-time sound, has remained part of the genre for generations. Craig Morgan's song offers a more unique sound, but the story told in his relaxing tune could have easily been one from any previous decade.


You deserve a break. Here's a toast to you for taking it ... I hope you enjoy Craig Morgan's wonderful Sunday song. You can find more about Craig Morgan on his website.






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


Tuesday, July 29, 2014

When It Comes to Musical Styles, Where does your Passion Lie?

silver sports car
Music is the way to GO!

Choosing a Musical Style is something that everyone does in some way or other.  Each of us tends to like different styles of music for many different reasons.   That is the way it should be.

Wouldn't life be just so boring if everyone just liked Jazz, or Country, or Gospel?

Then there are our choices in instrumentation too!  I know that there are certain times when I can really get into a piece of music that has a terrific drum beat, and other times when something much softer like an orchestra playing Fur Elise, would just make me happy.

So what's your favorite style of music?  You can check out some of the best and newest country and western music with any one of  Brite-Ideas articles.  Her latest one is just so good and enjoyable.  A Country Song from Son to Father

Or if you haven't had a chance to hear some really good rock and roll,  you can always go to the 70's contributor "Fullofshoes" and check out some great early rock with her article about Please, Please Me!  My First Beatles Album, Please Please Me, $2.50

But that's just the tip of the musical chart, there is so much more to enjoy and listen to with ballads, and folk songs, one in particular that I really like, because he's from my own backyard, Gordon Lightfoot!


And when all is said and done, there are those special times of year, when we celebrate Holidays, my favorite being Christmas. So without too much ado, you can and should check out some oldies but goldies for the upcoming (it's less than 5 months away) Season.  Christmas Music That Stirs the Soul

Then there's all the Techno Pop and Rap that is flooding the airwaves these days.  If that floats your boat there is lots to choose from including Step Up 5, Step up 4 Revolution Movie, Soundtrack List


Either way there is lots to entertain you and open your ears to some new sounds, so enjoy.




  
 


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Sunday, July 13, 2014

Theme Parties are the Best!

vegas party theme
Party occasions come in all shapes and sizes but party theme ideas will always out number them. Themes can bring fun, whimsy and an opportunity to embrace a different time or place or can bring a fantasy world to life.

They can also be less dramatic but still there -- bringing cohesion to party organization, decorations and even the food (if you choose to go that far)!

During my years in the event industry, I was constantly asked if a theme was "necessary" for parties and events from birthdays and showers to reunions and weddings. The short answer is -- no, they are not necessary. The longer answer is -- a theme can actually help a host/hostess when planning a party.

What the heck do I mean by that? Let me explain...

Do I have to have a Theme for my Party/Event?

Certainly not. However, a theme can actually help with the planning and pulling off of a party. Parties are usually planned in advance and include some or all of the following elements:

  • Invitations
  • Set up and Decorations
  • Food or Meal
  • Cake or Desserts
  • Favors or Guest Gifts

The occasion of your event or party can give you some help or direction when planning but a theme can really bring it all together.

With a central theme, it narrows the vast choices out there for the above mentioned elements. It gives you a starting point and a finish line. And, it can help rein-in ideas and keep you focused on the big picture you are trying to create.

What is a Theme?

what is a party theme
Kids birthday parties are definitely theme occasions but adult parties and events can benefit from a theme as well. A theme can be whole hog or subtle, your choice. But, most parties have some sort of a theme.

Even when you simply choose a color scheme and coordinate the above elements with that scheme -- that's a theme too. It's a subtle theme, but a theme nonetheless.

Theme Ideas Abound

Luckily for us and everyone searching for party/event ideas, here are some articles that share a plethora of information that can help. Do you like Tea Parties?  Christine shared her ideas for a child's birthday with a tea party theme in her lens, "Planning an Alice in Wonderland Tea Party".

Got someone that loves guitars and music? PartyBuzz helped plan and execute that theme for her grandson's birthday.  "Teen Party Ideas: Guitars and Music Notes".

How about a Las Vegas theme? That one can be loads of fun, especially for adult events like birthdays, reunions, fundraisers and more!

Have you hosted a great theme party? I invite you to write about it. Use lots of photos too! As the Party Planning Contributor, I would love to help you promote your lens when it's finished.

What are you waiting for? Start writing!



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


Friday, February 7, 2014

A Little Romance with Elvis

A Little Romance with Elvis
Most of us have great memories associated with Elvis and his music. We can remember the first time we heard Elvis sing. We remember his movies, his good looks and his charming smirks. To this day, I am tickled when I view videos and I see him do that little half smile while he is singing.

Many of his songs are important to us and are associated with someone we knew, dated, fell in love with or even married. Elvis touched our hearts in his own special way and we all know where we were and what we were doing when his death was announced. 

Elvis changed music, he influenced lives and he left us wanting more.


The writers featured here today share their memories, those magic moments that included Elvis and his songs.
 


Can't Help Falling in Love


These are both most excellent reviews of the same song, but from a totally different perspective.  I can easily identify with each one.  I have absolutely no problem believing Elvis sang this song to both a woman and to God.  The expression of not being able to help "falling in love" would easily be true for either and I do agree with TheCureforYouthMinistry, Elvis did love gospel music and I do truly believe he loved God.  I don't doubt for one second that he did smile over the use of this song in church.

Elvis Can't Help Falling in Love
Cherylfay shares her own personal memories of falling in love and her association with this song in Can't Help Falling in Love.  She recalls in vivid detail exactly how she felt when her own blue eyed babe winked at her.

This is truly a fun article to read.  Who knows.  She just might make you start remembering too!

TheCureforYouthMinistry shares a completely different perspective in this article, The First Time I Heard Elvis in Church.  I have personally never heard anyone sing "Can't Help Falling in Love" in church, but I think it is totally applicable and appropriate with just the portion of the lyrics that say "take my whole life too".  I also love the idea of using popular music to make a spiritual point.  I would have thought that was awesome as a youth or young adult.  Even now, I can truthfully say  I will never again hear the song exactly the same way now that TheCureforYouthMinistry has caused me to listen to the song in a totally different way.   



Love Songs with Elvis

elvis greatest hits

Grammieo  delights us all with Can Anyone Say SwoonJust the title of the article says it all and made me smile.  

I can understand why Grammieo decided to review the full album instead of just one song.  It really is difficult to choose just one favorite.


Join Us and Share Your Elvis Memories

It is not too late for you to join us! We would love for you to share your memories and tell us all about your favorite Elvis song.

Would you believe there are over 100 romantic songs by Elvis?  Feel free to review more than one song if you so desire. 

 

Don't Put Off Until Tomorrow, What You Can Review Today!



Forever Hopeless Romantics on Facebook





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