Guest Blogger: Chelsea W.

AC/DC is one of my favorite hard rock bands. They are an Australian hard rock band who began the group in 1973. They are known for their songs about sex, drinking, and damnation. When people listen to AC/DC, they get a sense of anger and energy. The singer, Brian Johnson, has a screaming, wispy voice that makes it sound like he’s in rage. I honestly don’t think AC/DC sounds like any other rock band because of the singer’s voice, but they are commonly compared to groups like The Rolling Stones, Van Halen, or Led Zeppelin. They sings about the same topics but doesn’t sound the same. AC/DC is very different from rock bands like Boys Like Girls because Boys Like Girls uses high pitched notes, where as AC/DC is very monotone. “Back In Black” was released July 25, 1980 by the Australian rock band. This song is very memorable to me because it is my mother’s favorite song and it has also been on my volleyball warm-up CDs. So when I hear this song I think of playing volleyball, and the days that my mom would sing to this in the car. Critics from the Rolling Stone also think AC/DC is one of the best rock bands. They commented on how raw the music is while other bands are so clean and cut. AC/DC adds a texture to the vocals and uses bass and drums to make a unique hard rock feel to the group. I completely agree with the critics on their views of AC/DC. Although they’ve switch singers many times because of death or vocal weakness, the group is a strong unit and has made their mark in music history. For any age group, AC/DC is worth your time and money because of the raw music they play. They have sold 5 million copies of their last LP and continue to on success in the music industry. Obviously other people enjoy their music, and you will too.

Guest Blogger: Mohamed E.

Bad by michal jackson was a great album because it was a pop album. in
this album there were lots of feelings expressed because yes its michael jackson and had lots of emotion. The sound that i heard in this album was probable a mixture of a little rock because i heard some mixtures with rock. One song whould be bad and gotta have it those sogs both had a great rythem to it and were very influential. I strongly agree with the critics because it was turly a great album. This was definatly worth ma time because micheal jackson is a great icon.

Guest Blogger: Mohamed E.

Loso's way by Fabolous is a Hip Hop album. This album realy just defines growth as an artisit and person.fabolous had alot of fetures on this album so that was realy diffrent about it. Imm do it and Never let it go were two great songs in this album that talked about a life of a kid. I agree with critics because i think Loso's way was the album of the year.

Guest Blogger: Dana D.

There is never a dull or depressing moment when listening to one of Jack Johnson’s five studio albums. This former pro surfer gone singer/songwriter was born and raised in Hawaii which explains the style of his music. Johnson’s first studio album, “Brushfire Fairytales”, was released in 2001. Since then he has released four more albums and a number or EPs. A lot of Johnson’s songs are inspired by his wife, and high school sweetheart, Nicole Galvez. In one of his more recent songs, “Angel”, off his latest record he sings, “I've got an angel. She doesn't wear any wings. She wears a heart that can melt my own. She wears a smile that can make me wanna sing.” In Jack Johnson’s 2005 album, “In Between Dreams”, he tried to write a few deep songs about wasted life and morality. Unfortunately the effort failed. In the end the album was still seen as a “feel-good” album. Overall, the album was a hit and topped the charts. In 2005 he claimed the peak position at number one on the Australian ARIA Albums Chart along with making the European Top 100 Albums list. Also in 2005 he claimed the number two spot on Billboard 200 and Top Canadian Albums. In 2006 he snagged the number one spot on the Billboard 200 and came in at 64 for the Top Internet Albums. Not only did he top the charts but he was nominated for Best Original Song (“curious George”) at the Satellite Awards in 2006. For the album, Johnson started his own label called Brushfire Records and he went international. In February 2006, he won a Brit Award for Best International Newcomer, beating The Pussycat Dolls, John Legend, Arcade Fire and Daniel Powter. In May 2006, "In Between Dreams" surpassed one and a half million sales in the UK. Who would have ever thought that this pro surfer from Hawaii would become and international celebrity? So if you are ever having a gloomy day, just put on your headphones and listen to “Banana Pancakes”.

Guest Blogger: Jessica D.

One of my favorite artists absolutely has to be Britney Spears. Britney has to be one of the biggest pop stars out there if not number one. She’s been out there entertaining everyone for almost a decade not. She evokes every different kind of emotion. It makes children sing along and adults realize the real meaning behind the song. Yes, the real meaning of the lyrics behind her songs might not always be the cleanest. Two other artists that would compare to Britney is Madonna and Lady Gaga, and not just because they all have the platinum blonde hair. Britney Spears, Madonna and Lady Gaga all have more of an upbeat type of music that any club would love to play. One song that is particularly memorable of Britney’s is “I’m Not a Girl Not Yet a Woman,” because it showed the stage in her life where she wanted to be taken more seriously as a singer. Everyone has thought of Britney as the cute, innocent ‘mouseketeer,’ but when she finally wanted to be taken in that she’s growing up and the public needs to understand that, she had written this song. Although, critics have claimed that Britney is “crazy” and her scandalous new lyrics, I believe that she’s not a waste of money at all. From shaving her head to walking out on stage with an albino python on her shoulders to kissing Madonna on live television there is nothing that stops this girl from not being entertaining at all! Her music is friendly to all ages and if there’s a deeper meaning, most kids will not find out the true meaning of the song until they’re actually ready for it anyways. I would definitely think that Britney Spears is one of the best artists out there.

Guest Blogger: Sarah T.

As you all known Jordin Sparks won American Idol in 2007 since she won I really like her I even brought her CDS. Her CDs are under the genes pop and R&B. The emotion I am feeling from her two CDs are happy, sad and excellent. Sometime her music is you want to dance and sing long too. One of my favorite songs is Battlefield off her new CDs that came out his year. It is about how boy and girl who try to stay together but it is very difficult and they always get into fight and they always argue all the time. The next song is Tattoo I is about a guy and girl who like each other but they don’t know how to tell each other. This song mean when I get Tattoo I am with forever. I agree with the critics because it is dependence on her fans and how should be an artist for a very long time. I still believe that she will do a good job nobody where it takes her as an artist. I think it is worth our time because she has a strong voice and she can sing very high like some of the singing can’t sing that high. I think it is worth our money because she is super talent and go very far into the future. Her musical talents can her anywhere she can sing really well and still have a lot of fun on stages or hanging out behind the stage waiting for what is going to happen in her life.

Guest Blogger: Megan M.

Sublime was formed in 1988 as a garage punk band. Sublime’s first album was released in 1992 the title was 40. oz. to freedom. Since then they have released 12 other albums, all in the reggae or garage punk band genre. They started making their music in California, most of their lyrics consisted of telling a story which most surfers and skaters thought they could relate to while living on the west coast. The feel and sound of the music is very relaxed or chill but the lyrics are very rebellious and definitely make a statement. Sublime’s sound is not like many other well-known artists that you hear on the radio. There are not loud electric guitars, or computerized sound effects, the instruments are all very natural sounding, and sometimes odd instruments are used to make a unique sound. The song April 25th 1992 has very memorable lyrics because it is a true story about riots in California. What is great about the lyrics is that they sound like they are actually there at the riots.

Guest Blogger: Chelsea W.

One of my favorite artists is Lady Gaga, but her real name is Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta. Born March 28, 1986 in Yonkers, New York, Lady Gaga started playing music when she was four. She sings music from the pop genre but also can play piano. Her record labels include Def Jam, Interscope, Kon Live, Streamline, and Cherrytree. Many of her songs reveal a sense of happiness or excitement. In her song, “Poker Face”, it has a fast beat, which creates energy and makes the audience feel excited. There’s a very large difference between Lady Gaga’s music and John Mayer’s music. John Mayer sings slow, mellow music in the acoustic genre, while Lady Gaga’s songs are very high tempo. If you’ve ever heard “Your Body is a Wonderland” by John Mayer, it’s complete opposite to something Lady Gaga would write. Lady Gaga sounds very similar to artists like Madonna and Britney Spears. They use strange lyrics in fast beat songs to get the audience’s attention. Both Madonna and Britney spears have performed at the VMA’s, and they make their performances memorable, as well as Lady Gaga. She made the stage a murder scene, which is something I have never seen. “Poker Face” is memorable to me because I love to play poker. So when I hear the song, I always think of the times that I’ve played poker. Critics from Rolling Stone say she is also changing what it means to be a 21st century pop star, and she’s doing it through 24 hours a day of fierce work. I agree with this because her music, attitude, and performance are much different than that of her competition. She’s not afraid to be different than everyone else. Lady Gaga is definitely worth your time and money because there’s much more to her than pop music. She adds charisma to her work and dedicates herself to change how we view pop music.

Guest Blogger: Sarah T.

The music blog I am going to do is Taylor Swift she is an amazing artist and she is every young for her age to become famous. The gene of Taylor Swift is country/bluegrass. The album I feel from her CDs is happy and sad because I feel sorry that she writes about her boyfriends. One of her song is Love Story it is about Romeo and Juliet who love each other and they want to spend the rest of the life with each other. When Juliet asks her father to go see Romeo and her said “No”. They stuck out to see each other before their parents. Later Romeo and Juliet get married. The nest song is called fifteen it is about her freshmen year at high school. When Taylor Swift tells you when senior boys tell you “I love you” you always believe them. When the popular group thinks they cool and you want follow them. When you go first date and he has car and you feeling flying when you get first kiss. When you want married you decide to follow your dream. I agree with the review it depend on the fans I think she will do good for long as she can I hope she can get the top 1. So nobody what she do the best She can I like Taylor Swift. I think it is worth our time and money because she is 19 year old and she is strong Christian. She faces the same problems as we do in teenagers like boys. I think it is worth our time some people don’t like country but she is a good artist. Taylor Swift is very young and she won so many awards and she has sold out concerts that she is coming back to states that got sold out so fast.

Guest Blogger: Megan H.

The Red Hot Chile Peppers is a boy band who has stepped outside of the box to create multiple albums that continue to capture people’s attention all over the world. The Red Hot Chile Pepper’s most popular albums are by the way and californication. Their newest album however is called Stadium Arcadium which also has had great reviews. The new album is a double album including 28 songs on it.
The band has been together for 23 years and the double album may keep it going longer. The new album has some feel from the old albums but has a new twist on the lyrics and blows the fans away. The Chile Peppers have had many different styles and meaning behind their music. Californication was a song written about one of the band members almost deathly heroin over dose. Their first two albums Freaky Styley and Blood Sugar Sex Magik are more of a metal theme. Their middle albums have more soul and feeling put into them and have more of a story line to them. Some of their songs have a touch of pop in it too. The Peppers have their own unique style and continue to surprise fans with their creativity.
They have come back with new talent after almost losing a band member to heroin addiction. The vocals have not slipped up and continue to incorporate incredible guitar and drum solos like the good music from back in the 70's. Now day's the music industry lacks in true talent, The Red Hot Chile Peppers have more talent than most bands out there and they sound great live.
The Red Hot Chile Peppers have their own style and no other band has the same type of rhythm and influence on their fans than them. I hope that the Peppers continue to write and compose music that keeps us on the edge of our seats.

Guest Blogger: Megan H.

Jack Johnson’s newest album Sleep through the Static has a different tone then his 3 last albums. Sleep through the Static includes songs that are more dark and deep such as sleep through the static, hope, if I had eyes, and monsoon. His older music had a more up beat and care free tone, bubbly toes, on and on, banana pancakes, and better together. Johnson’s first albums seem to come from more of a boy’s life type of experiences however sleep though the static shows a more mature and wiser man’s life experiences.
Jack’s music touches people in a different way, everyone who loved his old albums continue to love him and his new reached level in music. His music is mellow and touching. His music is sometimes the whole truth, nothing censored. He continues with this method of thought and meaning in his music making it new and part of the alternative genera. He keeps smooth rhythms which enhance his nature and life language. His acoustic feel incorporated in his mellow voice creates a piece of art.
His music is more mature in the sleep through the static then his goof ball old albums like on and on and in between dreams. Jack is a father of two and only 32 years old. His lines are simple and to the point. His careful choosing of words is what creates a song enjoyable to listen to; his music includes guitar and piano solos which keep up with the theme of his goofy but brutally honest lyrics. Johnson’s music is something everyone can relate to and involve events that happen in normal people’s everyday lives. Many criticize his music as cheesy or boring but Johnson’s music has exploded in the last few years and his fans fell in love with the sleep through the static album and will continue to follow him in music.

Guests Blogger: Semir B.

From nothing to something huge in the music business, T-Pain has made himself a big star. Starting off with his first song “I’m in love with a stripper” T-Pain became very popular, but wasn’t that big yet. After his very first cd and one of the most popular songs that came out called, “buy you a drink.” T-Pain started to top the charts at number one all over. The singer, rapper, producer, writer, voice box abuser started to team up with many famous rappers and singers to make amazing songs, including Lil Wayne, Kanye West, Chris Brown, Mike Jones, Akon, Yung Joc and more. T-Pain is mostly known for his great voice using the auto-tune to affect it. Many rappers and singers look for this type of thing, which makes T-Pain one of their main targets to look. From its title to its more poignant numbers, T-Pain's Epiphany wears the tag line "more mature album.” Most of the songs in the “Epiphany” album should be lighting up both bedrooms and at clubs. A handful of songs on “Epiphany” show T-Pain’s got more in him than vocal effects and club life stories. The song “Church” is a fast paced cut with a speeding guitar line. It’s T-Pain on speed and it’s one of the more enjoyable songs on the album. The absolute show stoppers are the joint-tracks “I Got It” and “Suicide” which deal with the realities and cautions of HIV/AIDS. Even though HIV/AIDS is absolutely destroying communities, it remains a willingly ignored topic. Unfortunately it doesn’t take much to find some inconsistencies in T-Pain’s message of caution. T-Pain may have some bad things happen in his career, possibly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS but this will not stop his outstanding performances and amazing music he has produced for people all over the world.

Guest Blogger: Grant N.

The other artist of my choice is Jay Sean. He would be considered as R&B and kind of on the hip hop side as well. He is a British singer that originally went to medical school to become a dentist or a doctor and just dropped out of Medical school to pursue his musical career. He has a couple of very good and memorable songs and they are “Down” Featuring Lil Wayne, and also “Eyes on you”. They are very memorable for a good reason. They kind of have that romantic twist that makes you think about that certain special person. His songs are really good but he is also still developing as an artist. And he will only get better, I have never once thought negatively of his music. I was caught and pulled into his style of music right away. And I’m still hooked on it. I have heard a lot about Jay Sean, And I have looked for people that may disagree with what I have to say about him. Which is all good stuff, but I was looking for somebody that might not like him, but I have not had any luck at all. I just think that he is a very likable artist and its easy for everyone to adapt to his style. He not only does a good job with the way he writes his songs but he also does a good job fitting in with our generation. Because His style of music fits what everything else is like. What im saying is that his music sounds like the all the other music that people are doing now days. But he has a distinctive sound. Even though he sounds like other artists I can still tell him apart from the others. And that’s a really good thing. And I honestly don’t have a reason why his music is not worth our time or money. I believe that a lot of others would say the same thing. So yes I believe his music is well worth all our time and a little bit of money.

Guest Blogger: Ashton L

Lil Wayne is classified as the best rapper alive. The music that Lil Wayne produces is rap, hip-hop, and even sometimes R&B. When listening to his music a lot of the time it is not very positive. The mood or emotion that is evoked while listening to his music is hate, love, drugs, sex. A lot of the time in his music there are also many other good emotions. Some of his lyrics are about how he feels guilty for not being able to support the victims of hurricane Katrina and some things that he regrets. If I were to compare Lil Wayne’s music to other rappers I would say that his music is much more REAL than others. He actually writes his own lyrics and sings them himself, while some artists get their music written for them like Kanye West. One of Lil Wayne’s songs that is memorable for me was “3 Peat”, this song was memorable for me because it talked about helping some of the victims from hurricane Katrina and that changed my impression on him as a person because it showed how much he cared about his home state and about people in need. When reading some reviews that other critics wrote about I found that a lot of people wrote about how good the album was but I found someone who thought different and he made some good points on how Lil Wayne’s album wasn’t that good. For one he said that a lot of his songs are about nothing and just spit out words randomly and just simply had no meaning, and if I think about it I kind of agree. His songs just have catchy words and a nice beat which draws people into his songs. In my opinion about Lil Wayne I would have to say that he is a good rapper and his album is worth buying. I like his songs. They are catchy and most of them have really funny lyrics and he makes fun of many different artists and actually makes some good points about them.

Guest Blogger: Ashton L.

The Artist that I am doing my review on is the group Nickelback. This group sings rock music about different events that have happened in their lives. The review is on their album ‘All the Right Reasons’. There are many emotions that are evoked when listening to this album or even a single song. The emotions evoked would have to be anger. This group has many emotions in their songs a lot of them are inappropriate though. Most of their songs are about drugs sex and old girlfriends where as in many other popular songs today the songs are about love and happy things, although many songs have the same things as these do. One of the songs that really stuck with me is called “if everyone cared” This song stuck with me because it shows me that he might not like his life or the things happening to him and may be trying to get people to feel bad for him. “fudgenuts 101” writes, Nickelback's best album to date. They have the signature heavy as balls rock (especially the Dimebag Darrel tribute 'Side of a Bullet") the fun songs, ('Rockstar') the innuendo's, ("Animals") and the heartfelt ballads which are creative in their lyrics. He also says that Nickelbacks album ‘All the Right Reasons’ showcases their range in music and this is why they have so many loyal fans that follow all of their work. So in conclusion, I think that if you are interested in good rock music, that it would be a good investment to buy this album. The Nickelback album includes many songs that are about relationships and life events. If you like true life stories, music actually written and sung by the musicians, and something good to listen to than this is the right album for you.

Guest Blogger: Lindsey H.

Kutless, an awesome band, set stage to premiere it’s album “It is Well” in October of 2009. Their album “It is Well” came out in stores just recently on October 20, 2009. “It is Well” album is about where the band is now and what Kutless believes in. Most of the songs are hymns from the 1800s and Kutless took the hymns and made them into songs Kutless style. The music of Kutless is Christian Rock. I get good feelings and emotions from Kutless’s new album “It is Well” because it is about the same religion I believe in. One of the songs “What Faith can do?” talks about if you fall or have a broken heart, Faith can do anything and it’s so true. Also the song gets the listener to pay attention to the words because it gets them to believe that Gods’ power is real and exciting. Kutless music reminds me of Hawk Nelson and Skillet music. They are similar to me because all three have in common of using drums, keyboard, and guitars in there music and most songs are up beat. Kutless is different from many bands with their words in their songs. They sing songs that has to do with worshiping our Lord and Savor. In “I do not belong” by Kutless “I do not belong in a world of broken pieces. I was meant to be in the arms of Your redemption. I am moving on to the place of Your perfection. Cause I do not belong” is memorable to me because non of the Christians in this world do not belong in this world. I believe we belong in heaven with Jesus.  The album to me was great but according to a review at Christianity Today they said that the album should have had more original tunes. I disagree with them, the album is perfect.

Guest Blogger: Ryan P

Lil Wayne is the highest rank and the best rapper in the world today by far he has been killing the other rappers in sales and records sold for the last few years. Because his music is real, it’s about the hard ship he grew up in and how his family and friends growing up in the gang world have died and the things they had to do to survive. Wayne has taken the task of album-making seriously: This isn't a mixtape; it's a suite of songs, paced and sequenced for maxaqimum impact. He's collected sleek, powerful beats from top producers (Kanye West, Swizz Beatz), enlisted A-list guest stars (Jay-Z, T-Pain) and served up a range of textures and moods, from the elegiac Hurricane Katrina protest "Tie My Hands" to the bubblegum bumper "Lollipop," in which Weezy has a laugh at selling out by creating the most outrageously pumped-up sellout single in history. Thematically, Carter III is a victory lap. In the hilarious "Dr Carter," he boasts about resuscitating hip-hop: "As I put the light down his throat/I can only see flow/His blood's starting to flow/His lungs starting to grow." A good song with great lyrics is the song that’s how u let the beat build. Is about how he so good he doesn’t need a beat to rime the raps he makes. Then it leads up to a hot ad sick beat that makes everyone that listens to it say now he is the best rapper alive. The other good song is called Mr. Carter. It’s about his road to the rapping world how he became so big. A lot of people have respect for him and it also tells a little bit about his past life in gangs and drugs. So in my opinion Lil Wayne is the best rapper alive in the game to this day.

Guest Blogger: Top T.

Linkin Park is an American rock band that came from Agoura Hills, California, and the band was formed in 1996. It wasn’t long until the success of the band became public; they ended up selling up to 50 million albums and won two Grammys. Their album “Minutes to Midnight” was an album to which to be decided, but the fans words were as described “Damned if they do, damned if they don’t!” When it came to deliver the third album, it became one of the biggest rock hits of the new millennium. Their songs are mixed in with a lot of different emotions, not just staying on one type of tone or sound. In the album “Minutes to Midnight” it was surprising to some people how the album really didn’t have any rock music on it, but slower, emotional music. With a handful of upbeat songs like “Bleed it out” easily the best, most different sounding music they have ever made, with quiet atmospheric feelings, and with electronic textures that were cutting edge. Compared to other bands I would probably compare them with “The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus” just because of their take on things, and sound. Critics express their feelings as this band progresses as a band that won’t stop surprising us, and I agree with them. This band still has a lot to offer and has many fans that have their backs, so as they progress I wouldn’t be surprised if they made it into the top 10. So if you’re looking for a band that can rock, slow things down, and just hit you with the sound of their music, and this is the band for you, in other words you wouldn’t waste your money or time on this band because they are a band that wouldn’t disappoint.

Guest Blogger: Steven F.

Sean Kingston is Hip Hop/Rap, R&B, Reggae/Ska musical artist. The feel of his music has a disco/club feeling but can mix in some slow auto tone songs, so his music and lyrics can take some unexpected turns. Sean Kingston’s songs and lyrics are a type of music to play in clubs and parties that many people like. With his clean lyrics of the music he writes and good feel to his music beats compared to other artists like Gucci Mane and Young Jeezy and there violent gun, gang and drug related lyrics of their songs. Sean Kingston can also express his feelings in his musical lyrics. Like when he is he is telling a girl in one of his songs called “Face Drop”. He Says "Sayin' that I'd look better if I was thinner/Don't you know you should've loved me for my inner." This is memorable because Sean Kingston is overweight but he is telling the girl to look at his insides because that’s what counts. I agree with the critics and what they have said about Sean Kingston’s album “Tomorrow”.

Guest Blogger: Anneka F.

Owl City is the newest band to hit the scene, and it has been a smash hit. All of the songs are adored and people love the dreamy quality of the music, Owl City is a pop "band". Owl City, also known as Adam Young, stays within the range of gentle feelings, you'll find no extremes in this music, but can invoke any feeling (sadness, happiness, loss, longing). Longing and sadness stand out in these lines of "Vanilla Twilight":
"The silence isn't so bad,
Till I look at my hands and feel sad,
'Cause the spaces between my fingers
Are right where yours fit perfectly"
Happiness and lost are the big emotions in his new song "Strawberry Avalanche":
"When we woke up buried alive beneath the fruity landslide we both laughed hysterically
It could've been just another dream, but I swear I heard you scream
A strawberry avalanche crashed over me"
It is hard to compare Owl City to current music makers today as they are a brand new type of music that most Americans haven't heard even though Owl City originated from Owatonna MN. So far all the reviews from critics have been positive, his music is well-liked. His second album was released in September and that album caused people to love Owl City even more. The singer says he was inspired by the European DJ's and things he saw in real life. Just listen to his music and those parts are obvious. All-in-all I like his songs and music style. The only complaint I have is his songs are very similar, all with quiet smooth melodies and whimsical lyrics. I think that in coming years that will be his biggest problem, the lack of change. You should definitely give it a listen, his songs talk about real life in a round-about fashion. It is worth the money.

Guest Blogger: Hailee P.

Eminem is a well known rapper who provokes all different types of emotions. His lyrics are usually humorous and put you in a good mood, but other times the lyrics can be very angry and make you upset or put you in just an angry mood. His music is a lot different than many other artists because his songs are usually about totally random things. He then uses random words or punch lines that sound funny or rhyme with each other that lead the song to have different meanings to different people. Another way he is different from other artists is he usually tells stories that happened in his past and makes it in to a song, while most other artists just pick a random topic to sing about. For example, in Eminem’s song “My Mom” he describes how his mom was addicted to many drugs, including Valium, which had a great affect on him that led him to become who he is today and why he does the things he does. While another artist for example, Taylor Swift’s song “Love Story” is just about your typical love story you would see in Disney or something, rather than Eminem’s usual style of rapping about past events that have happened in his life. One lyric that is rather memorable to me is “You gonna ruin my career? You better get one,” in response to Nick Cannon’s blog explaining he would ruin Eminem’s career. I think it’s actually quite funny that Nick Cannon thinks he can win against Eminem. Eminem could literally slaughter Nick Cannon with his lyrics. I personally think Eminem’s album “Relapse” is very much worth your time and money. If you like fun beats, a sick flow, and lyrics that are either attacking someone (making the songs funny), or events in someone’s past, or even just random words that create some form of rhyme or alliteration, then I think buying this album would be very smart on your part.

Guest Blogger: Patrick S.

Tim McGraw is about the country music. His kind of music is the crowd pleaser type that had a catchy tune and isn't so crazy. Tim compared to a rapper like Eminem's word filled raps have way more words than Tim's music. Then again there are singers like Beyonce that can have meaningful music just like Tim. The most memorable music that Tim McGraw offers in reviews of his music are My best friend and My little girl. Both songs are special to him and his fans because it let’s fans know about his life and most importantly it’s him expressing himself in his own way. Critics say Tim McGraw’s music is the kind of broad strokes, almost like a crowd pleaser and I agree. Tim McGraw is and isn’t worth the time and money it’s just based on your personal opinion if you choose to listen to his music or not.

Guest Blogger: Chelsea R.

Taylor Swift has charmed us all since the age of 16, when she was #5 on the country billboard charts. Taylor’s huge song that has stunned us all was “Tim McGraw” in 2006. Swift became the youngest artist ever to win Songwriter/Artist of the Year. That year, her video for "Tim McGraw" won CMT's Breakthrough Video of the Year. One of my favorite songs by Taylor swift would have to be “Love story” because it reminds me of being younger and reading princess stories, but that’s how it goes in real life. My second favorite song is, “Fifteen” it’s about being young and in love, and when your fifteen and someone tells you they love you, you’re going to believe it. I think more us teenagers can relate to that, mostly girls, because every girl wants to be loved. For Swift’s album “Fearless” it was like she literally ripped out her diary pages and made songs about what she wrote and felt. Lovingispainful from youtube.com states that “Taylor Somewhat is similar to all the other pop females in the industry...” I would have to disagree with that because she is just honest and real, and lays out what she feels in her music and you can see tons of people relate to that. I think that anyone who wants a love song, sad song, or a song they can relate to... they should be listening to Taylor Swift; she clearly puts that out in her “Fearless” album.

Guest Blogger: Khuong N.

Drake has impacted the music industry and acting industry with success and beyond. He is one of the most talked about artist in the music industry for his great ability to sing with barely or any auto tune (a pitch corrector used in singing). He’s undisputed lyrical ability to rap is also major plus and it’s so great Lil Wayne (Who happens to be the top rapper) used his lyrics at the VMA. Lil Wayne recycles one of Drake’s verses and afterwards he shouts him out. Drakes flow is another great feature about him. He brings something very new to the industry. His flow is never out of place. His flow is based on many other artists which makes his own unique style. He has Lil Wayne’s wackiness, Kanye’s energy, and Jay Z rhyme scheme. Drake is by far topping the charts with his ability. Come on whose ever heard of a successful rapper/singer/actor. First he was really witnessed in the trey songs video “replacement girl” he has been rising the charts every since. Follow that was his mix tape “So Far Gone” Which could have passed off as a legit album. The mix tape features the 2009 top summer single “Best I Ever Had” along with other hits such as “Uptown” “successful” and “Unstoppable”. He is now currently working on his upcoming album “Thank Me Later” Which is highly anticipated. Drake had just recently hurt his leg while performing with Lil Wayne’s Worldwide tour Causing him to be a little bit behind on his album. He has said as soon as he heals he will begin searching for inspiration and begin working on his album asap. Drake has also been motivation to other artist. Bow Wow is beginning to adapt to his style. So let’s just say hes good no great and a motivational rapper/singer/actor.

Guest Blogger: Quoc

Pitbull is a Latino singer who is Cuban. The music that he writes is mostly a mix of Latin and English words. The music that Pitbull writes is mostly Hip Hop and Rap. When someone hears the lyrics of Pitbull, they often feel like getting up and dancing along. His music also makes people feel happy or excited whenever they listen to his music. When comparing Pitbull to other singers, his music is very similar. The music that Pitbull writes sounds very much like Lil Wayne, Flo Rida, and Kanye West. The beginning of the song Hotel Room Service is memorable to me. The reason for this is because the beginning is very catchy. The beat is what makes it catchy. According to Billboard.com, someone who listens to his music either likes his music or hates his music. I agree with this because I have listened to some of Pitbull’s music and some people around me have turned to me to say that his music is annoying and the lyrics are highly inappropriate. Billboard.com also says that his music is metaphors for organs and orifices. I agree with this statement too. From the Entertainment Weekly website, it said that Pitbull’s music is influenced by electronic and pop. I do not agree with this because most of his music sounds more Hip Hop/Rap then it does electronic. They also rated his album B-. I agree with this statement. His music is great, but they often repeat themselves, which gets kind of boring after a period of time. In my opinion, if you want to listen to something that is catchy and that repeats itself, you should definitely check out Pitbull’s music. Pitbull’s music is worth the money if you feel like dancing, listening to a mix of English and Latin lyrics.

Guest Blogger: Quoc N.

The man behind Owl City is Adam Young. Adam Young comes from Owatonna Minnesota. Most of the music Adam Young writes is electronic and pop. When someone listens to his songs, it would make them smile or feel happy. There isn’t a part in his songs that would make you feel sad or horrible. Compared to other musicians, Owl City’s music is refreshing. His music does not sound mostly like the other music you would find on the radio these days. Adam Young’s music is relatively new compared to the artists of today. “I’d like to make myself believe that planet earth turns slowly its hard to say that I’d rather stay awake when I’m asleep. ‘Cause everything is never as it seems. When I fall asleep. Leave my door open just a crack (please take me away from here) ‘Cause I feel like such an insomniac (please take me away from here) Why do I tire of counting sheep (Please take me away from here.) When I’m far too tired to fall asleep.” This part of the song is memorable to me because what the song is basically saying is he wishes the world would turn slowly so that he would remain asleep longer and not have to wake up. I like this part of the song because I would rather be asleep than awake for the most part of my life. According to Entertainment Weekly, Adam Young’s music is daydreaming ready. I agree on what Entertainment Weekly said because the songs that he writes make you think and at the same time go into a daydream kind of state of mind. Billboard.com states that Adam Young’s album Ocean Eyes hit the number two spot on the electronic albums. I agree with what Billboard classifies Owl City’s album as because most of the music he writes sounds electronic. Owl City is a good listen, and if you want to listen to some feel good music, Owl City is a good band for you.

Guest Blogger: Karshe A.

Knaan is hands down one of the most unique rappers I know. He is first of all Somali and you don’t find much of that now and days. Great thing about Knaan is he doesn’t stick to one genre he has done hip hop, unabashed pop, metal, and most importantly he is known for his poetry. Critics have said K'naan has "a sound that fuses Bob Marley, conscious American hip hop, and brilliant protest poetry.” His voice and style are a lot like Eminem’s but the message is way different. K’naan usually expresses the troubles back in his homeland Somalia and is trying to give the message to stop the violence and bloodshed. In his song people like me is a slow song with strong words about the people like him (Somali) and in the song he gets emotional talk about leaving a cousin of his in the war. As you look at the lyrics you will notice he has a good sense of rhyming and that there is a message in his songs. Most of the reviews talk about how good knaan is and how his songs mean something so I do agree with them because I feel the same and by his songs he really inspires me. In my opinion no one is greater than knaan he is hands down the best and his songs are not about getting high or drunk its bout struggles he went through just like Tupac did and that’s why knaan in my opinion is better than this generations rappers, singers, or poets.

Guest Blogger: Miranda W.

The Beatles album, "Abbey Road," was a great album. The type of music of this album is rock and roll. There is no specific feelings or emotions that are evoked in this album. In the song, "Here Comes the Sun," it shows mostly hope. This would probably me my favorite song out of this album. One of my favorite lyrics is "Here comes the sun, here comes the sun, and I say it's all right." I like this lyric because it shows hope and it makes me feel happy when I am feeling sad. Unlike most albums, The Beatles put together an album that showed all different types of emotions, rather than just focusing on one main emotion. Every single one of the critics said this album was great. One critic stated that "Abbey Road is simply a brilliant piece of musical parody, and one of the very best popular music albums ever released, if not the outright best." Not even one critic stated something bad about this album. I personally rate this album a five out of five stars and I would definatlly say this album is worth your time and money.

Guest Blogger: Semir B.

Chris Brown, a native from Tappahannock, Virginia is known as one of the greatest r&b singers out there. For his great voice, he has been in a lot of music videos in the past five years or so. Joining Jive Records at the age of thirteen, Chris Brown made himself really fortunate in becoming what he wanted to since he was younger. Chris Brown was only 16 years old when he hit the top of the charts with his pop-flavored R&B single "Run It." That song blew up and really let out Chris Brown’s popularity. His first cd, named “Chris Brown” it was released November of 2005. The album “Exclusive” sets to be one of his greatest albums and has sold many copies worldwide. When the song “With You” came out, many people recognized that Chris Brown was a really great singer. Later on in his career he doubled his popularity by joining other great artists to make music, such as, T-Pain, Lil Wayne, Kanye West, and even joining his girlfriend Rihanna. This began to fall apart between him and his girlfriend as his squeaky clean image took a hit in February of 2009 when he was arrested and charged with beating his girlfriend, singer Rihanna, in a car on the day of the annual Grammy Awards. He pleaded guilty to a charge of felony assault in June of 2009, as part of a plea deal that led to a sentence of five years of probation and counseling on domestic violence. After all of the courts and pleading, Chris Brown has gotten back to business from where he ended. Even though most of his 2009 was ruined due to the incident with his girlfriend, He started on a new album that is coming out on December 14, of 2009 called “Graffiti.”

Guest Blogger: Sam N.

Tupac Shakur pasted away in September of 1996 but his music did not go away. Before his death Tupac was known for his memorable lyrics in each of his songs. He was one of few artists who wrote songs about things that he has or will go through being an African American in America. Being an only son and only having his mother raise him it was tough. Having your father run out on you as a kid is not a good thing. His mom was a single mother living on welfare in the projects of Long Beach California where you hear gun shots left and right, where you could never be too safe. His mother working two jobs trying to support him and her was not easy. Tupac knew he had to do something so he moved out and got his “Hustle On” which is making money anyway possible. Tupac was different, he did not write with his mind, he wrote with his heart and did he have plenty of it. A song he wrote that almost any rap or R&B fan would recognize would be “Changes”. This song put Tupac on the charts as well as many others like “Dear Mama, Hit Em Up, and IAin’t Mad at Cha”. After his death he came out with six more chart noticeable albums. Most of the songs on the album were “Underground Music” which is music that an artist writes and does not want it to be noticed at the time. Which then producers then listened to and cleaned up, edit so a good quality song would be produced. Over the years there has been dispute weather Tupac is still alive or not. Some people say how can a dead person come out with over six albums of music and not be alive? While other people have looked deeply into his death and have found evidence that he is still alive at this very moment.

Guest Blogger: Joe T.

It started out in a Minnesota bedroom, and now Owl City, a one-man project by Adam Young, is invading the pop singles chart. "Fireflies" is filled with whimsy from its lyrics about ten million fireflies to the sweetly simple melodies. It's difficult to listen to "Fireflies" without a smile creeping across your face. "Fireflies," you feel yourself being taken off to a playful and fanciful musical world. His songs aren’t generally “serious”. These songs are the type you listen to when you are having a bad day, and want some happy, uplifting music. Many of the songs deal with ocean imagery and relationships; though this doesn’t get as cliché as it does with some other bands. Don’t think that Adam neglects his faith in his music. In the worshipful song “Meteor Shower” he cries out: I am not my own, For I have been made new, Please don’t let me go, I desperately need you. The song is a perfect example of the potential for diversity that Owl City has. Where else could someone find a song about going to the dentist, but in the song "Dental Care"? Lyrics like "Open up nice and wide,' he says peering in/And with a smirk he says 'don't have a fit,/this'll just pinch a bit,' as he tries not to grin," may seem simplistic and childish at first, but are delivered in a way that forces the listener to question if the lyrics are symbolic of something else. Two notable exceptions to the standard style on this album are "The Tip of the Iceberg" and "Vanilla Twilight." "Iceberg" is different, because it's a full-blown "club" song, with a heavier and faster beat, while "Vanilla Twilight," a song of lost love, is slower, reflective and sadder sounding compared to the rest of the album.

Guest Blogger: Dana D.

She may only be eighteen, but Taylor Swift writes songs with lyrics years beyond her maturity. This country star hit the music scene in 2006 with her self-titled debut album, “Taylor Swift”. Her first single, “Tear Drops on My Guitar”, became a hit across the country over night. After she conquered Nashville and stole the hearts of people everywhere, it was obvious she was here to stay. Most of Swift’s songs seem to be inspired by heart aches and breakups. There is one question on everyone’s mind. How can this young girl have been through so much in just eighteen short years?! Well we may never know the answer to that but it’s evident in Swift’s songs that she knows what she is talking about. She is loved by teen girls everywhere because it’s as if Taylor is speaking for every girl when she writes her songs. For example, every average high school student can relate to the lyrics in Swift’s song “Fifteen”.
“You sit in class next to a redhead girl named Abigail and soon enough you're best friends laughing at the other girls who think they're so cool. We'll be out of here as soon as we can and then you're on you're way.”
That is a line from “fifteen” and every student that has ever been put down by another student that though they were so much better and cooler than them can relate to it. Swift’s songs give people hope and let them know that it might be bad now but you will make it through and be stronger in the end. Just by listening to her songs you can feel like you have a friend. With her world records in album sales (she sold over 3 million physical copies of her 2nd studio album…and many more electronically!) and itunes sales Taylor Swift will be one of this generations most remembered artist. And I think we can all agree that, with her songs, Taylor is one of the best advice givers out there.

Guest Blogger: Lindsey H.

A well known artist, Colbie Caillat has broken through to top the charts of being number one with her new album. The southern California gal wrote the album Breakthrough of 2007 that got her to the top. Colbie Caillat sings songs in the genre of folk-country. Her hit single was “Bubbly”. According to other reviews her single “Bubbly” established her personality as a bubbly and ditzy southerner crushing for guys. I agree with the other reviewers that it establishes her bubbly and ditzy women. A few lyrics from her single are “I get the tinglees in a silly place”, she gets the tingles in her toes and nose she later on sings. I think she sounds like and sings like Taylor Swift. All of her songs sound a-like too me. Colbie Caillat doesn’t sound like the artist Skillet. Her music is more guitar and piano playing. Skillet’s music is more upbeat. Colbie Caillat is worth listening to I think. I enjoy her music a lot. It surprising to me that we haven’t heard about her in the news or on the radio for a new record label. I wish she would come out with more CD’s than just one. One of her songs “Realize” is memorable and my favorite. I like the chorus in the song. The words are “If you just realize what I just realized, then we'd be perfect for each other and will never find another Just realized what I just realized we'd never have to wonder if we missed out on each other now.” It’s talking about her and crushing of boys, if the boy would just realize what her and him had then the relationship would be perfect for each of them. Go out and listen to her talking about her relationships with boys in her songs. 

Guest Blogger: Salume J.

Run DMC is the earliest rap American group that brought hip-hop into the musical and cultural mainstream, introducing what became known as “new-school” rap. The members were Run D.M.C. and Jam Master Jay. Run DMC was managed by his brother Russell Simmons. The Music they composed give you a up lift of energy, the kind of music that makes you want to get up and dance. More than any other hip-hop group, Run-D.M.C. is responsible for the sound and style of the music. As the first hardcore rap outfit, the trio set the sound and style for the next decade of rap. With their spare beats and excursions into heavy metal samples, the trio was tougher then there competitors. Grandmaster Flash and Whodini .In the process, they opened the door for both the politicized rap of Public Enemy and Boogie Down Productions, as well as the gangsta fantasies of N.W.A. At the same time, Run-D.M.C. helped move rap from a singles-oriented genre to an album-oriented one -- they were the first hip-hop artist to construct full-fledged albums, not just collections with two singles and a bunch of filler. By the end of the '80s, Run-D.M.C. had been overtaken by the groups they had generated, but they continued to perform to a dedicated following well into the '90s.

Guest Blogger: Nacia H.

Kanye West is a well known hip hop and rap artist who has been around creating controversy for many years. Bumping heads with people like George Bush and Taylor Swift. He never seems to know when to shut his mouth. Saying stuff like George Bush doesn’t care about black people in 2004 at the American Music Awards, and interrupting Taylor Swift at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards during her speech. He always feels the need to interrupt other people and talk about how he feels and what he thinks about everything. I defiantly agree with the critics’ opinion when they say that West’s mouth gets him in trouble. On his last album, he played around with auto tune and produced an album full of heartbreak and sorrow. Most of the inspiration from his new album came from a couple events that happened in his life. His mother died and his fiancée left him. In one of his songs called “Heartless,” he says "The coldest story ever told/Somewhere far along this road he lost his soul....How could you be so heartless?" This was memorable because Kanye is the type of person who doesn’t let people know bad things about him. He always thinks so highly of himself. But his latest album, called 808s & Heartbreak is a basically a breakup album. He lets all his feelings out on this album. Most of the songs on this album give a depressing feel and it evokes plenty of self pity. Personally, I don’t really want to listen so some guy complain and whine about himself and all the bad things that are going on in his life, so I defiantly would not buy this album. Maybe if someone is going through a tuff time in life can relate to Kanye, they should buy this album. Overall I would probably give 808s & Heartbreak three stars.

Guest Blogger: Hector G.

Drake is a rapper and probably one of the best in the industry today. He came up big with his song called “Best I ever had” from the album So Far Gone. His music in the So Far Gone album has a lot of different feel to it. It has a cocky feel to it in most of his songs, talking about how he is one of the best rappers out there and how much money and woman he gets. His music has a very different sound to it compared to other well known rappers. All his lyrics are memorable, using metaphors and comparisons of different kinds. Many rappers do this, but not as much creativity as Drake. Two of the songs that are very memorable in the So Far Gone album are “Best I ever had.” It was probably the hottest song in this album. Another song that is memorable in this album is “I’m going in” featuring Lil Wayne. In this song both rappers have good verses that just get stuck to your head. Many critics say that Drake is the hottest young rapper in the game and I would have to agree. Drake has added a different and creative sound in his lyrics that just never gets boring. The creativity in his lyrics is amazing with a flow that isn’t boring at all, and makes you want to rap along with him. The So Far Gone album is a very good one. With many different songs that are very creative in the instrumentals, to the hooks and lyrics. This album is definitely worth the money. If you like music about money and being cocky then this album is for you. And it is just not only about money and being cocky, but there is music in this album with songs that you can dedicate to a special someone.
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Guest Blogger: Joe T.

Jack Johnson has personality and charm. Jack Johnson demonstrates his ability to jump from upbeat tempos to soft ballads. His guitar skills are wicked and his voice is so smooth and in sync with everything he does. Since my introduction to Jack Johnson, I instantly fell in love with his talent, and those I have shared this find with are just as impressed. His music can be relaxing and easily make you drift into day dreams. He plays calm and simple acoustic guitar music and possesses a simple, calming voice. He keeps everything light and and soothing. I find myself lost in his music and lyrics. Even on the worst of days I can put in any of his CD's and be whisked away to serenity. It is extremely uplifting and relaxing. The use of background sounds like rain and wind add to the calming effect of his music. Many of his songs bring back playful memories from the past and think up dreams for the future. He is by far one of the BEST! If you like acoustic music and you need a break from the stress of your everyday life you should definitely check him out. Jack pushes his listeners to follow their dreams and make them a reality. Johnson's admirable agenda of eco-love is well represented as are his anti-war feelings.

Guest Blogger: Kris N.

J. Holiday is considered one of the most relaxed R & B singer due being high and intoxicated so often. His relaxed and lazy looking way makes him look sloppy. But that doesn’t mean he sucks. J. Holiday still puts passion and thoughts into his songs. His relaxation ways probably help him out about what he wants in his songs. His last album that came out was “Back of my Lac”. The album has a sexy, sweet, passive loving kind of songs in there. Unlike other R&B singers, J. Holiday sings about sex and love and break ups and getting together. One of his songs “Bed” was a sensational song that has the women going head over heels for him. When he sang “I’m a put you to bed”, has done it for him. Women all over have fantasies about J. Holiday putting them to bed. According to Billboard Back to my Lack, Critics says “He might even sound like Chris Brown if he wasn't high and/or intoxicated so frequently”. That is not even right, everyone have their own unique voice and his doesn’t even sound like Chris Brown. Also, “You'd probably have to dump a bucket of ice on J. Holiday's head in order to see his eyelids open more than half way, at least going by the singer's photos and persistently slack delivery.” That is not right to say that about someone, what if his eyes are like that, and he had to blink because of the flash. Asian people have slanted eyes, but does that mean that they are drunk or high all the time? NO! Some people are just born that way. His songs bring out people’s loving side, and it helps people feel happy and relaxed. This album is worth out time and money because people that like to listen to slow and sexy passionate songs, this CD will do the trick.

Guest Blogger: Grant N.

Joanne Stefani Germanotta AKA Lady Gaga is my artist of choice; she has become very popular within the last couple years. She’s been recording since the year 2006 first being signed to Def Jam Records. Being born in New York, she also performed in New York on the lower east side. If you have ever heard the songs Poker face, Love Game, or Just dance. You have obviously heard Lady Gaga. Even though you may have not heard of her, you have heard her. And these songs are so catchy that you will know who she is eventually and the lyrics will be easily memorized, personally I love all 3 of these songs. I predict that she will only become more famous. Because people like her style and the way she has mixed up music. Also her personality is part of it as well. Because she is truly a one of a kind artist. From the way she talks to the way she walks, and the way she acts. Although there was one thing that confused me about her. That being, I was told that she is a feminist, and a man hater, but I didn’t really want to believe all the gossip and negative things that were being said about her and her career. And during an interview I was watching, she was actually asked if she was a feminist or a man hater and she said “no I just think its fun to mix things up and try to make what I do in music sexy”. She refers to her career as Art, and nothing more than art. She also has a religious side even though it never shows during her shows or when she’s talking to people. And what she said is that “God doesn’t make you good at everything, he makes you good at one thing, and imp great at art”. And I agree with this statement she has made 100% and I don’t think she’s just saying that. I could kind of see it in her eyes during the interview which I had watched. She also has her own design collective called Haus of Gaga. Where she hand makes everything, including glasses and disco sticks and other things. And my point being is that she is truly an Artist and probably one of the best, in recent times. So yes it Her Art is worth our time and money, because she puts love into her work and she enjoys what she does. She doesn’t do it for the money; she just loves what she does. And another reason why it’s worth my time and money is because her music just gives off a positive and energetic jive. And that’s why I love her and her music so much.

Guest Blogger: Top T.

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus are an emo band that started their career as a local band down in Middleburg, Florida. Their music is described as a punk, rock, and deep emotional feeling kind of music; like in their album “Don’t You Fake It” the song “Face Down” stares down domestic abuse with the swirling guitars and a chorus that proclaims "Do you feel like a man when you push her around? Do you feel better now as she falls to the ground?” The band jumps back and forth in their feel of music and in what kind of music they write. It can feel like once you hear their music, their just a bunch of just rocking, crazy maniacs, but once you start listening closely to their music; you can start to hear the different in their emotions. Also from the same album, their song “Your Guardian Angel” is a slow soft song that leads into a dramatic change in tone and volume, when the lead singer Ronnie Winter, sings to the top of the lungs to express his pain and emotion into a single verse that can lead the whole audience speechless. One part of the lyrics in this song always gets me and that is when Ronnie sings “I will never let you fall, I’ll stand up with you forever, I’ll be there for you through it all, Even if saving you sends me to heaven”, and whenever he sings that part of the song, my heart just rises and it stays there for a moment until his voice just slowly goes away and his voice disappears. To the thought of this band, I do think every single person in the world should listen to The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, because you might just discover something about yourself that you might have never known.

Guest Blogger: Anita P.

Neyo's music is a variety of R&B and HipHop; Soul type of music. The feel of his album is like a new Micheal Jackson, in which he compares to. He can dance and sing, very very talented just like Jackson but not as popular but he's definately getting there. His music is like Jackson's, does that little beat thing out of his mouth then music starts from that beat he made. A song that is memorable would have to be "Because Of You" because it's gentlemanly feel is a reminiscent of Micheal Jackson's "Thriller". I totally agree with the critics. Neyo is a rising star, like Michael Jackson #2 in the making. His album is worth spending money on. His songs are very likeable, and it's easy to tell he puts alot of time and dedication into all his work.

Guest Blogger: Patrick S.

Michael Jackson was the kind of pop. The feel of his album was excitement. Michael Jackson's song are probably one of the most well known when it comes to thriller, Michael Jackson's songs can be good vocal songs just like Mariah Carey and then he can dance really good just like Usher and Chris Brown. Two songs that are really well known are Thriller and You are not alone because Thriller's dance is what made it so popular, the song is one that makes you want to move so and that is most likely why it has its very own dance for the song. Another song that is really well known is the song that Michael Jackson sings very well which is You are not alone which is very popular because of the song's greatness but is very meaningfull to Michael because the song was released around the time that Michael was accused of child sexual abuse. Michael Jackson was said to be the undisputed kind of pop with more than 13 number one hits of his career and even with this critics argue that Michael's music isn't enough to have him be called the kind of pop. Michael Jackson is worth our time and money simply because even when it was argured for Michael to be the king of pop he still is in the end.

Guest Blogger: Ryan P.

Jay z is a real big hip hop artist and his music is about love and how people feel about other things and about what they have done during there life time. Unlike the game or dr.dre jay z dose rap just about drugs and killing and sex. jay z is big because he raps about real life outside of the gang world. He also raps about how he grow up and about how he got to where he is at now and how he got to be so big in the music world. Jay-Z has to contend with a dilemma that Tupac or Biggie never did — how to be hip-hop's first Hall of Fame workhorse, documenting life on top rather than on the rise. By all indications, he'll continue to make good but not great music in my opinion, replicating the form of his finest records minus the electric charge. Jay z and the song run this town has very good lyrics. Because it gets people to listen to him about how people live there life in the real world and people just want to run their own life. Another good song by jay z is D.O.A. and that is about the life he lived and about how he raps and where he came from kind of like his life story in his music. So in my opinion if jay z is worth the time or money, mine is yes he is. Because he writes great music about life, and people like to listen to people who sing about their life, and how they go to where there at today.

Guest Blogger: Anita P.

Beyonce usually sings hiphop and r&b. The feel of this album (I Am...Sasha Fierce) is romantic, vulnerable & soft. This album is more calmer then her other albums. It shows a different side to her. She is one of the best singers/dancers there is. She can compare to Mariah Carey in a way, but she is a bit younger. Mariah Carey has the benefit of knowing more things because she is a bit older, but Beyonce is learning fast. Two songs that are memorable of Beyonce's are "Irreplaceble" and "Single Ladies". I personally don't like "Single Ladies," but it has gotten so popular. She also did a performance with that song for the MTV music awards which was pretty entertaining. I agree with the crititcs on what they are saying about Beyonce. She did a good job in portraying two different sides of her music. The song "If I Were A Boy" deals with a softer side and the song "Single Ladies" deals with a more hyper dance side of her. She did a good job with showing everyone her skills, performing a slow song or fast she is always on top. This is an album only of two songs, but is worth buying because these are two songs that are very different but also very, very good. "

Guest Blogger: Ryan E.

The Game is the best rapper in the industry today. His debut album, The Documentary, was the first stepping stone onto the throne. After being shot 5 times and living in a coma for months, he decided to write raps about his past. Not too long later, he was recognized by 50 Cent and Dr. Dre and signed to Aftermath Records. In 2004, The Documentary was released. The most memorable song on the album was Dreams. It was based on The Game’s past and what had happened in the last 2 years. The song has really stuck with me, as I still listen to it frequently. The Game’s biggest idol is Tupac, and he tends to write and rap just like Pac did. He has a lot of shout out’s to Dre and Pac, showing his appreciation for what those 2 have brought to the music industry. Rollingstone and Billboard both reviewed this album at 3 out of 5 stars, which I would have to disagree with. Any true rap fan would enjoy the album, it’s full of good beats, lyrics, and guests appearances. 50 Cent is on a couple of the best songs, including Hate It or Love it & How We Do. Both songs were number one on MTV’s TRL back in 2004. If you want to hear a classic album with all of the right things in it, buy the Documentary and listen to it a few times. You too with hear the greatness that The Game brings to the rap industry today. After this album he split with 50 and Dre, but he continues to create legendary albums and he has a new album coming this December, called R.E.D. I know I will be buying it, the question you should ask yourself is: Will You?

Guest Blogger: Miranda W.

The album I read reviews on was “Fearless” by Taylor Swift. Her main type of music is country, however there has been several of her songs that have been made into pop songs. The feelings and emotions that are evoked in this album is mostly love and passion. Her singing really shows her emotions, because she writes about things that have occurred in her life and relates it to other people. One of my favorite lyrics from this album is in her song, You Belong with Me. “Can't you see that I'm the one who understand you? Been here all along so why can't you see? You belong with me.” The reason why this is one of my favorites is because it shows how she has helped this guy through all his problems and has always been there for him, and she secretly likes him. In the end, he realizes that she is the girl for him. Another one of my favorite lyric is from the song titled Fifteen. “Cause when you're fifteen and somebody tells you they love you, You’re gonna believe them. And when you're fifteen feeling like there's nothing to figure out Well, count to ten, take it in, this is life before you know who you're gonna be.” I like this lyric because it is telling younger people that even though they may think they are in love, true love comes in time. She is trying to tell them not to fall in love so easily, because it hurts to have a broken heart. I really enjoy her music because unlike other artist, she always ends her songs happily and tries to teach a lesson to people through her songs. I mostly agree with the other critics’ opinion on this album. Most of the critics really enjoyed this album and stated that she is a great and talented artist. Overall, I rate this album a four out of five stars. I would say that this album is defiantly worth your time and money.

Guest Blogger: Anneka F.

Kelly Clarkson is a pop/ hip-hop kind of girl. She is also the type to rely on herself and not ask for help, especially from men, examples of this can be found throughout her lyrics. Like in "Since U Been Gone" she sings "You had your chance, you blew it out of sight, out of mind" talking about how easy it is to forget the boy. Most of her songs invoke the emotions anger, sadness, or strength. The song "Never Again" involes all three, part of the lyrics go "Does it hurt to know I'll never be there bet it sucks to see my face everywhere it was you who chose to end it like you did". Those words have anger and sadness in them, the stength come in at the chorus when she sings "Never again will I kiss you, never again will I want to, never again will I love you, never!" In a few she talks about times she's been hurt and what that felt like. A lot of the critics say her songs are very repetitive and the melodies are very similar. In that area I agree, she very rarely changes up the emotions or the type of story told by her lyrics. Overall however I enjoy her music, it talks about feelings and reactions that most people don't show in public or to anyone. This music would be very good for someone that needs help on getting over something or feeling their real emotions. Kelly Clarkson is also a very inspiring figure. She didn't start out with money or in the music world. She fought her way to the top in American Idol and is one of the few winners of that show that became famous and well-known for their singing. Her story has a true fairy tale ending that anyone would love to have. Kelly songs will continue to help young people feel better about themselves no matter how repetitive the words, themes, or melody's are. I would really suggest checking out her music and seeing how it makes you feel.

Guest Blogger: Megan M.

Miley Cyrus began her music career as Hannah Montana, a Disney channel show aired on March 24, 2004. Miley’s music started out very pop and for a younger audience. Now that Miley is growing up she is not only know as Hannah Montana but also known as Miley Cyrus. Miley’s new music is still pop but with a more grownup sound. Miley is trying to branch out and not only attract the younger age group but an older audience as well. Her songs are about Boys, Love, just being a girl, and challenges she has had to overcome in her life that her fans can relate to also. A lot of Miley’s songs are fun and upbeat that make you want to dance, and on the other hand she also has songs that are easy to listen to and you can see a real person behind the celebrity. Miley’s favorite artists are Kelly Clarkson and Hillary Duff. You can see why if you listen to all of their music it has the same type of sound, and upbeat feel. Critics hold nothing back when it comes to Miley Cyrus. She is known so well as Hannah Montana and a young girl’s role model it is making it a lot harder to grow up. Every time she tries to break out of her shell such as; taking matured pictures, her clothing, and her performances on stage. In my opinion Miley Cyrus is worth out time and money. She is a great role model for all ages, and young girls can relate to her songs. Yes, some of her performances and outfits aren’t ideal but she seems to be learning from her mistakes and is developing into a great young artist.

Guest Blogger: Jessica D.

One of my favorite artists is Taylor Swift. She’s an amazing country singer that has many songs that many teenage girls can easily relate to. She evokes feelings pertaining to love songs to having boyfriend troubles. She talks about mixed feelings that a teenage girl would realistically have instead of the classic perfect couple falling in love. Compared to Shania Twain, Taylor Swift and she have many similarities and differences. Such as both Taylor Swift and Shania Twain write and sing their own music. They write about being in love but yet Shania Twain writes more about what it’s like to be in love whereas Taylor writes more about what it’s like to love from afar or how things can’t/don’t work out between the two. Two of Taylor’s songs that stand out to me are “Picture to Burn” and “You Belong with Me,” because they’re two complete opposites and she sings so boldly about two situations that happen to many teenage girls. To start off with, “Picture to Burn” is about how she has a boyfriend who has dumped her and went around telling lies to his friends about her. My next favorite song of hers is “You Belong with Me” because it shows her wanting a boy who has a crush on another girl yes she knows she’d be better for him. I like this song because you can understand where she’s coming from in this song because either you’ve had a situation like this or have had a friend who has been through this situation before. All of Taylor’s songs are catchy and make many want to sing along with her lyrics. Even if you don’t like Taylor, it’s hard to stop yourself from singing along to her catchy lyrics. Many critics believe that after Kanye West’s interruption during the MTV Video Music Awards about Beyonce Knowles, Taylor has now gotten more popular. Critics love Taylor and her popularity has showed it. I believe that Taylor is worth everyone’s time and money, because everyone can relate to her, not just teenage girls.

Guest Blogger: Josh B.

This Blueprint 3, by Jay-Z, is a mixture of rap and hip hop. The tone of voice and the majority of his words have changed greatly. You can tell that he is maturing as a person and as a rapper. In this album he collaborates with many other artists such as Luke Steele, Kanye West, Rihanna, Young Jeezy, Alicia Keys, Swizz Beatz, Drake, J. Cole, Kid Cudi, Pharrell, and Mr. Hudson. I agree with other critics that in this album there is more of the featured singers then there is of Jay-Z. I also agree that the content of his songs are more mature and about real life situations. They aren’t filled with a bunch of bogus swearing about hoes and drugs. All in all, I would definitely recommend this album to people of all ages. Its fast up tempo music with very good meaning to the lyrics.

Guest Blogger: Chelsea R.

My favorite artist would have to be Lil Wayne, who is considered to be the “Best rapper alive.” Lil Wayne has two main passions, making music and ____ _____. Wayne’s rhymes are varied; they depend on his moods, which can be from quick-tongued spittin about girls, cash and guns to gut wrenching expressions of personal pain. Wayne has over 500 tracks, and he is a studio rat, he thinks recording is an addiction. Whenever something pops into his head he writes it down and records it. Lil Wayne is considered to be the “rare” pop star that raised his music profile to the top in the last two years. One of my favorite songs by Lil Wayne is “I’m me” It’s letting everyone know that he is Lil Wayne, he’s on top and no one can even come close to him, or can’t stop him. My second favorite song by Lil Wayne is, “Something you forgot” because it shows to everyone that he has a soft side, emotions, and doesn’t just rap about guns, money, talk trash/dirty to girls, and rap about being a thug. A lot of people think Lil Wayne is a “Gangster/Thug” but for him being a gangster means that no one can tell him what to do, or how to do anything, he’s doing to do it the way he wants to, and live his life the way he wants to. He’s on top and a lot of people disagree with him being on “top” but he doesn’t care, he knows it, and you would be cocky to. Lil Wayne is worth your money, any song you listen to will either be Lil Wayne, or have Lil Wayne in it. Lil Wayne is going to legendary, he’s the future Michael Jackson of our teen generation, and will always be remembered as the “Best rapper alive.”

Guest Blogger: Nacia H.

Lil Wayne is a hip hop artist and a rap artist. He has been around for a long time so he is very well known. He used to be a member of a group called Hot Boyz. Now he is a very successfully solo artist that goes by Lil Wayne A.K.A. THE GREATEST RARRER ALIVE. Most of his songs are upbeat, with heavy bass, and a moving beat. The songs he makes gets people feeling excited. They make you listen to his voice because it is unlike anyone else in the music business right now. He has his own personal style. When you hear him on a song you will know it is him because he is very unique. They way he pronounces the words in his verses are different and it makes him fun to listen to. If you were to compare Lil Wayne to someone like Diddy or Snoop Dogg most of the things on your list would be the differences between them. They are all very different from each other. Their voices are different, styles are different, etc. I like most of his songs, so overall I would give his music five stars. In one of his songs called"3Peat," he says, "Get on my level/You can't get on my level/You will need a space shuttle/Or a ladder that's forever." This is him talking about how he is so much better than everybody else that is around right now and that what he is doing and what he is saying is so much farther ahead of everybody else. The verses that he writes are really like a complex poem with a meaning behind the words. He is from New Orleans, Louisiana so hurricane Katrina really had an effect on him. He has written several songs about this catastrophe and it is obvious that there are a lot of emotions behind each of these songs. His most recent legit album is titled Tha Carter III. I agree with the critics when they say this album proves that Lil Wayne is the best rapper alive. I think that this album is one of the best albums he has ever made. I would give it five stars and it is defiantly worth spending the money to buy or download it.

Guest Blogger:Hector G.

N.W.A is a rap group from the mid to late 80s to the early and mid 90s. They were probably one of the most famous and popular rap groups at their time. They didn’t get much air play due to the fact that their lyrics were very inappropriate, but they still managed to be heard. They shaped the gangster rap and west coast in the 80s and 90s. The feel in the album of “Straight Outta Compton” had a very strong feel too much of the things the rap group experienced in their lives. Some of the feel to the music is hate to the police and other members of different groups or gangs. Other feel to the music is violence. They music includes much violence towards people and law enforcement. N.W.A has a different sound to their music compared to other well known rappers. Today’s rappers still include much of the violent lyrics, but they aren’t as descriptive as N.W.A’s lyrics. Other well known rappers brag about how much money they make and how many women they can get. N.W.A’s sound is more about how a black male’s life was during the 80’s and 90’s. They included the gang life and police brutality. In this album there are two songs that are very memorable. The first is called “---- the police.” This song talks mainly about police brutality and violence towards police officers. It is memorable because of the fact that it talks about violence towards law enforcement. Not many rappers would have the courage to come out with a song that is against law enforcement. What N.W.A did with this song is break the limits of music. Another song that is memorable in this album is “Straight Outta Compton.” In this song N.W.A talks about how hardcore they are for being from Compton. Compton is a place known for its violence by gangs and drugs. Many critics say that this album is very good because it is different from other rap albums, and I would have to say that I agree. Many rappers of today like The Game and Snoop dogg are in the same genre of N.W.A. Many of these rappers have used N.W.A as an influence in their music. This is the reason why N.W.A is considered to have shaped the gangster rap and the west coast rap. In my opinion the album “Straight Outta Compton” is a very good album. I think this because it has a different sound to it. They talk about the real life of people in Compton and for black people. And this music doesn’t only apply to them, but also for people in different cities and ethnicity. This album is worth the money to buy and worth the time to listen to.

Guest Blogger: Joe H.

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers are from a small town in southern Florida. Tom petty uses this stuff in his songs such as, failings, compromises and existential emptiness that underlie the American dream as it staggers, violent and overfed. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers play mostly rock music with a little hint of pop. Two songs that I like by Tom Petty are “Free Fallin” and “Runnin’ Down a dream”. The song Free Fallin’ is a song about heart breaking. In the song he talks about the girl as being a “good girl” and how she loves everything even her boy friend. But her boyfriend is a “bad boy” and breaks her heart. In the song “Runnin’ down a dream” the song is about a person chasing their dream. In the song it talks about how it get worse as you chase your dream. I do agree with the critic on this topic. Tom petty does have his strong and weak points but overall he leads a great band. There are many bands such as the strokes used tom petty’s songs for influence. Tom Petty and the heartbreakers are a pretty is a really good band if you’re into classic rock. I think that spending $10 for a CD is well worth it or if you don’t like all the songs you can just by it from iTunes.

Guest Blogger: Ryan E.

Loso’s Way by Fabolous is a concept album based off of the movie Carlito’s Way. Though it does not entirely stick to the plot, it makes for a solid album throughout. The great thing about hip-hop is that artists have the choice of what they’re album will be about. It could be anything, including a movie. The album shows many emotions which include love, sadness, triumph, and anger. These emotions are exceptionally displayed in each of his songs. It’s My Time, which features R&B singer Jerimih, is about how it’s time the Fabolous rises above the rest of the genre and becomes the greatest to ever do it. Last Time, featuring Trey Songz, is about his struggles with his girlfriend and how their problems are getting in the way of their happiness and he promises nothing like what he did will ever happen again. There is no other rapper really like Fabolous, he has his own style and punch lines. The man that brought him in the game is Jay-Z, but he doesn’t really copy any flow from him. This album received a 2.5/5 stars from Billboard.com, which I would have to disagree with. I feel like the album deserves a 3.5 or 4 out of 5 star rating because the whole thing is worth listening to. There aren’t songs where I feel like skipping. I’m not going to say every person who listens to rap will like this album, but I will say it is good to ride to and a solid album to listen to whenever you feel like throwing a CD in. It’s not for people who don’t like confident rappers, or don’t respect people that brag about how much they have. Fabolous is all about showing off, and he has good reason to after all of the great albums he’s released.

--Ryan E.

Welcome!

We have reviewed the three types of listening common in movies and television. Now you are to expand your understanding of how stories are told through music by reviewing and commenting on 3 bands and/or singers using a blog as your medium.

Authoring blog entries will offer you another opportunity to present your ideas and writing for a larger audience than just the classroom teacher. Ideally, this will lead to more reflective, richer and deeper thinking while increasing your writing awareness and skills.

Here are the first posts from English in the 21st Century classes. Respond and comment to one band/singer post.