Guest Blogger: Monique 3

I would have to agree with Nate about wiz Khalifa. Most of his songs are rap but some of his songs are hip- hop. He's a very chill rapper and like Nate said his music makes you really think about things in your own life and the struggle you have been though. His songs and lyrics calm you down. Yes, khalifa has similar sounds to Kid Cudi but I think wiz kahlifa’s songs are more directed to smoking weed, partying, and girls. While Kid Cudis main focus is his struggles in life and how he has over come them. They are both amazing artist in their own way. I highly agree with Nate on one of his songs being "this plane" that song absolutely puts me in a very "chill" mood and his lyrics are very true. One of my other favorite songs from him would be "dreamin'" it talks about how he has everything he wants so he must be dreaming. He’s overcome a lot in life to end up where he is now. I highly recommend buying any of his albums, they are well Seth your time and not long after you listen to his song you will officially become taylored! (:

Guest Blogger: Monique 2

Kid Cudi is a well know R&B, hip-hop singer and rapper. Many people say that he has “feel- good “music. He evokes calmness within you when you hear is music. He raps about real life situation that everyone can relate to. Also he raps about the obvious things like partying and getting high. His most sold album Kid Cudi Man on the Moon: The End of Day is the album where he pours out him heart and his songs are very personal. I could say that Cudi has some similar sounds to Wiz Khalifa. They both have songs about their troubles in life but at the same time, Khalifa’s songs are very much about smoking weed 24/7 and non- emotional topics like that. They have different approaches on life yet have to same sound with different lyrics. My two favorite Kid Cudi songs would have to be “Pursuit of happiness” and “soundtrack to my life “off the Kid Cudi Man on the Moon: The End of Day album. My favorite lyrics from “Pursuit of happiness” would be the chorus. “I’m on a pursuit of happiness and I know, everything that shines won’t always be gold, I’ll be fine once I get it, I’ll be good.” I find them memorable because it shows that everyone at one point in their life wants to find inner happiness and you will go through many bumps and that just because one thing might look good but it’s not always the best. My next song is “Soundtrack to My Life” and my favorite lyrics would have to be “I’ve got some issues that nobody can see, and all theses emotions are pouring outta me, I bring them to the light for you, it’s only right, this is the soundtrack to my, soundtrack to my life.” There deep and very real lyrics. It shows his emotional side. That whole song is very personal and is a glimpse into his life and his true feelings. Critics of the Los Angeles Times stated that "he's made poetry out of being invisible" meaning he makes his job look flawless, which I agree with. He pours his heart and re lives painful memories and it seems like it doesn’t even phase him. Overall, if you’re looking for some good, deep music you can relate to Kid Cudi is the man you want to listen to. He's defiantly worth your time and money. You won't be disappointed.

Guest Blogger: Shermarke 2

Zac Brown Band is my new favorite country music band. The group represents Dahlonega, Georgia. Zac Brown is the lead singer. He also plays the guitar. Brown was born in Cumming, Georgia. As a teenager, he played solo gigs in local venues, doing country and pop cover songs. He is one of 12 children. The group recently released a new album called "You Get What You Give." Which has a few hits already? Hits like “As She’s Walking Away,” featured with Alan Jackson, and personal my favorite song “Colder Weather.” The song is for a girl who he had strong love for but because of traveling, he could not make a time to see him every day. “He said I wanna see you again But I'm stuck in colder weather Maybe tomorrow will be better Can I call you then She said you're a ramblin' man And you ain't ever gonna change You gotta gypsy soul to blame And you were born for leavin.” This line basically describes the tensions between Zac and his girlfriend. She was not happy about it. So one day he called to her to let her know he wasn’t going make it. So she broke up with right there and then. Zac took a little walk to try and clear his head. It was snowing at that time so how he got the idea of the song “Colder Weather.” A lot of people relate to this and they have positive feedbacks. Some people are calling it “lyrically profound” and Sorrowful. Most of those critics gave thumps on lyrics and the video as well. And I definitely agree with them. So if you haven’t heard of it yet you should listen to it.

Guest Blogger: Reeve 3

I agree with Bryan that Lil Wayne is the greatest rapper of all time. I like the point that he makes of Lil Wayne being religious because in multiple songs he mentions his beliefs briefly. Also it is easy to tell how he is feeling in his songs not only by the lyrics but also by the background beats that he puts in the song. Lil Wayne’s song “Tie my hands” talks all about Katrina and the damage it did to his neighborhood and also the friends that he lost. Wiz Khalifa is good comparison because even though they have similar styles in what they sing about but the way in which they present it is completely different. Another good song by Lil Wayne that I like is his new song “John” featuring Rick Ross. The beat to the song is so sick and the bass is so crazy. Another song that is good is “Every Girl” is has good lyrics and the beat to this one is also good. I agree with both King and the critics that once Lil Wayne gets out of jail he will kill it and that is exactly what he did. He got out of jail and got right back to making songs and going on tour. He immediately regained his spot on top once he left prison. Even while he was in jail the pre recorded songs that he did before he went to prison then released when he was in jail was genius. He made sure that even though he was locked up we didn’t forget he was the best. I definitely agree with Kinger that Lil Wayne is the best rapper in the game today.

Guest Blogger: Reeve 2

Lupe Fiasco first began to rise in the hip-hop in 2006. The style in which Lupe brings to the table is different in the sense that it has a hip-hop beat to it but the flow of the song is like a rap. Another artist that is kind of like Lupe is Chris Brown. It isn’t an exact comparison but it is the closest one I could think of. Chris Brown is beginning to be like Lupe with his hip-hop/rap songs but none are like how Lupe does it. There is really no one who compares to Lupe’s style. Most of Lupe’s songs have to deal with his thoughts and feelings about things. For example, his song “Words I never said” deals with his thoughts on the world today and how he feels about the crisis that are happening in the world. One of my favorite songs by Lupe is “The Show Goes On” it deals with just moving on from bad things and realizing that even though there are bad times the good times are coming right after the bad times. It is a good motivational song and it is also a good picker upper for when my day doesn’t go as well as I wanted it to. The critics claim that Lupe’s new album Laser was one of his best albums ever made and I strongly agree with that. His new album has some really good hits on it more than his others which had one or two good songs on them. In my opinion I believe that Lupe Fiasco is the best artist in his field. The way that he mixes hip-hop beats with the flow of rap is genius. Not only that but also the words that he speaks and the way he speaks his mind about his views on the world is awesome because he doesn’t care what other people think he speaks the truth.

Guest Blogger: Pierre 2

The first band we will evaluate is the british band Supertramp, whose music has passed through the genres of rock, progressive rock and art rock. The band's work is marked by the use of spiritual and philosophical lyrics and the distinctive voice of co-founder Roger Hodgson who appeared on the majority of the band's biggest hit singles. They are also well known for their prominent use of the Wurlitzer electric piano and saxophone.
We are mainly going to talk about «The Logical Song», the sixth song of their famous album Breakfast in America, released in 1979.
This song, which was written and sung by Roger Hodgson, is the band's biggest chart hit in both the United States and their native United Kingdom, and is among their most widely recognized radio hit. As the listener listen to this music, he gets the feeling that he is actually living in a society that has lost its innocence and idealism. Through the song, the listener realizes that as he grows into adulthood, his minds become conditioned and less receptive consciously and spiritually and that he loses all the innocence and joy he experiances as children.
By analysing the lyrics, we can notice that the author wants to make us mull over deep questions about Life and Love, and about wo we really are. Because what he believes in as an individual conflicts so dramatically with the expectations that society bombards him with over his life , he starts to question the very foundation of his logic, as he says « I know it sounds absurd, but please tell me who I am », which explains the name of the song. Moreover, we can truly agree with Allmusic’s review, which describes this song as « a timeless and touching tale about the human condition ».
To me, «The Logical Song» is nothing but a great lesson that the author has learned and wants to tell us. It teaches us to expect to be sometimes disapointed of life as we grew up, and not to think that everything is going to be all the time alright.

Guest Blogger: Patrick 3

I disagree with King’s first post, because Lil Wayne does nothing but produce metaphors. Anybody can produce a strong metaphor if you have a computer. It is impressive that he has been a signed rapper since the age of 12. He has made albums that were good, like the Carter I and the Carter II but ever since then he has changed his style up and decided that he wants to try to rap on rock beats. The song “Right Above it” is the only song in my opinion that has been any good by him in the past 3 years. Lil Wayne will always be a strong rapper with metaphors and stuff but he will never be as lyrically strong as some of the greats like: Eminem, Dr. Dre, and Snoop Dogg. Another thing about Lil Wayne is that his voice is very recognizable; pretty much anybody that listens to him knows a song is by him even if they have never heard it before. I think what happened to Lil Wayne is that he got too cocky and started thinking he was better than everyone and thought he could do anything. So he tried making rap songs to rock music. I say leave that to groups like Dead Celebrity Status, or Hollywood Undead. Overall, I think that Lil Wayne used to be a good rapper and he sort of fell off about 3 years ago.

Guest Blogger: Pat 2

Calvin Broadus, also known as Snoop Dogg, is one of the most memorable rap artists of all time. He is ranked right up there with Jay-Z, Dr. Dre, and Eminem. Snoop Dogg is one of the more “gangster” rappers, growing up in the ghetto of Long Beach, California. So the majorities of his songs are deep lyrically and get you thinking. He really likes the attention of all of his fans. Snoop Dogg compares to other artists such as; Eminem, Busta Rhymes, Xzibit, Dr. Dre, and Jay-Z. All of the best rappers have done songs with him. His most memorable song I would say is probably “Drop It Like its Hott”, “What’s my Name”, or one of his older songs that everyone knows, “Doggystyle”. These were very memorable because they all had good strong lyrics and a hard beat to them. He turned himself into an icon by putting “Doggystyle” out on the market, because he pretty much invented the term and people fell in love with it and though it was hilarious. Not only is he an inspiring artist but he is also an actor in many famous movies including “Soul Plane” and “Starsky and Hutch”. I have seen some critic’s say that he’s just an over rated rapper and that he should have quit when he turned 40, but I disagree with that. I think that Snoop Dogg is a very good rapper and he is a big part of the rap game. Don’t get me wrong, there are critics that love him too and think he is great, not only a great rapper but he’s also very funny. Everyone that knows him says he’s a very generous man and gets along with people very easily. Overall, I think that Snoop Dogg is a very talented artist and is one of the best of all time.

Guest Blogger: Zach 3

I agree with Bryan King’s blog about lil wayne in saying that he has grown to really like his music. I can relate to that because when I first started listening to Lil Wayne was back when fireman and lollipop were just being produced and since then I like a majority of his music. The only type of music I didn’t like of Lil wayne’s that Bryan forgot to mention was his rock music, I along with several others im sure didn’t really like it at all. I like how his music is mostly chill and very relaxed which fits my personality very well. I agree that Lil Wayne and Wiz Khalifa relate to one another because they rap about the same things. Like comparing Wiz Khalifa’s “Black and Yellow” to Lil Wayne’s later single “Green and Yellow” that was based off the Super Bowl this year. “Right Above It” is a really good, popular song by Lil Wayne that a lot of people enjoy because it’s inspiring to anyone that believes in god, talking about heaven in the song lyrics. I agree with saying that Lil Wayne “Is a good rapper” although; I wouldn’t say he is the best rapper out there. There are several other famous rappers out there like Eminem, Gucci Mane, and Young Jeezy.

Guest Blogger: Zach 2

Another artist I enjoy listening to is Gucci Mane. Although is real name Radric Davis, he is a hardcore rap artist mostly singing about anything that comes to mind or his jail life. I enjoy his music because almost every one of his songs has a good beat to it, and they sound good with subwoofers. In one of Gucci’s songs he talks about ladies and the next will be about drinking and being in jail. Gucci Mane is related to several other rap artists out there but some of the ones he is closest to are Yo Gotti and OJ Da Juiceman. He relates to these artists because all three of them sing about what comes to their minds and about what’s going on in their life. Although not so inspiring to the normal person’s life, they all have good beats to their songs along with the people in the background of their songs; yelling. One of my most favorite songs by Gucci Mane is “Wasted”. This song is my favorite because it has a good beat to it. Although the lyrics are a little inappropriate I still like the song. It’s talking about his lifestyle and what he does as a rap artist. Some lyrics include: “rock star lifestyle might don't make it, Living life high everyday click wasted, Sipping on purple stuff rolling up stanky, Wake up in the morning 10 clock dranking.” His new album The Appeal: Georgia’s Most Wanted was a big hit in the rap industry including Young Jeezy, and several other famous rappers. Critics say “The Appeal doesn't go too far left to make Gucci Mane's detractors change their minds, and it doesn't go too far right to make his fans love him anymore than they already do.” I agree with this saying because a lot of rap fans like Gucci Mane’s music style and his beats. To end on this discussion I would say listening to Gucci Mane is well worth your time and money if you like listening to rap and don’t mind swearing in music or talking about bad things.

Guest Blogger: Nate 3

I agree with Pat’s blog about Eminem because I too have always been a follower of his music and even though Eminem mostly talks about sex, drugs, and killing, he poured his emotions into his songs and that’s what makes people really like him. Almost all of his songs are about his life and events that had changed his life and the people that had influenced him on his way to becoming a successful rapper in today’s social economy. He has influenced a bunch of people from all over the world with his music and is still coming out with amazing songs. He talks about his struggle with drugs and how his dad left him at a young age and how his mother was a crack head. I agree with the statement that he is put up there at the top with some of the big artists back in the day like 2pac and biggie smalls. I agree with the fact that his songs are to influence kids to express themselves and to not bottle up all of your emotions and do drugs and other bad things to feel better. He has expressed himself in a positive way and that is why he is at the top.

Guest Blogger: Nate 2

Nate dogg was born Nathaniel Dawayne Hale. He started singing in the New Hope Trinity Baptist Church gospel choir every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday where his father was the pastor. He moved back to Cali after ninth grade where he met up with his cousin Calvin Broadus (Snoop Dogg) and Warren Griffin III (Warren G). Nate dogg’ style of music would lean more toward rap than hip-hop. After making his first professional appearance on Dr. Dre's multi-platinum album called The Chronic, Nate was signed by Death Row in 1993. Nate completed his first album G-Funk Classics Vol.1 in 1996 and the first single, "Never Leave Me Alone", reached #40 on the Billboard charts. Nate’s music basically tells a story about his life from his childhood to the his time in the marines and from his first album. Nate dogg would most likely compare to tupac in a way because both of them grew up in the same era and their music was similar because they both composed songs about their life as kids and as they grew up it got more and more into the game. These are some lyrics from one of his songs with Warren G. “They got my homey hemmed up and they all around, ain't none of them seeing if they going straight pound for pound,They wanna come up real quick before they start to clown, I best pull out my strap and lay them busters down.” These lyrics are from the song named “Regulate” by Nate dogg and Warren G. I don’t agree with the critics when they say that Nate dogg is just another wanna be rapper that came from the hood. He was raised in the streets and got kicked out of school when he was 16. I think his music is very motivational and moving.

Guest Blogger: Sufi 3

I would have to agree with this blogger I believe the New Boyz are a great duo. The New Boyz makes hype music, music that makes you wants to go up and dance. Although I do have to correct this blogger because the New Boyz is not responsible for making the hit track “The Cat Daddy”. The group that is responsible for “The Cat Daddy” is “The Rejectz”. When the New Boyz came out with their hit single “Your a Jerk” not only was it a dance song but it started a new movement for many teenagers. The New Boyz started wearing colorful clothing, plaid shirts and skinny jeans. At first there many that were not approving of their way of style and saying the jeans are for women and are too tight on men. The New Boyz had made it through and the movement had become nationwide. With the style of clothing growing so was there music “You’re a Jerk” was played all over the clubs and it was #24 on the charts of 2009. There official video was notarized #2 on the BET charts. Overall I believe the New Boyz won’t disappoint any teenager and there music can be heard by any age and I would tell anybody to buy there album.

Guest Blogger: Sufi 2

Chris Brown’s new album F.A.M.E.
Chris Brown is back with his fourth album titled F.A.M.E. which stands for Fans are my everything or Forgiving all my enemies. Chris Brown coming back from a bad incident that occurred back in 2009 with other superstar artist Rihanna. Chris Brown was issued that he beat Rihanna which made the artist lose many of his fans and get probation and restraining order from Rihanna. Chris brown came back up with a mixtape with other rap artist Tyga this summer that gave his presence back and a performance on 2010 BET Awards which made him to become emotional. Chris brown proved to his fans that he was back with his new album. Fame was said to be the most powerful album from the artist and also Chris saying that Fame was the most creative album he had made. Brown’s hit singles “Deuces, No Bullshit, Yeah (3x) and Look At Me Now” have proven that the album would be a hit. Brown’s new album is all sorts of genres put together mostly are a pop/rnb album. The emotions evoked on the album are from anywhere to a puppy love track with Justin Bieber to crunk dance music with Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne. Many of the critics have said that Fame had showed Brown’s mature than all of his albums and saying that no matter what had happened in the past that it is worth listening to. I personally agree with critics saying that Chris Brown’s new album shows his growth in the music industry and already having listened to all songs in his album saying that it is an album worth listening to no matter if you’re a Chris Brown fan or not. I would really compare his album to a new version of Michael Jackson’s old albums because he has the rnb sound with a pop music and all the music he is are music anybody can relate to.

Guest Blogger: Sufi 1

Rebecca Black’s Quick Road to Fame
As everybody knows Rebecca Black holds the record for having one of the worst songs ever. “Friday” her first hit single had a record of a million plus hits on YouTube. Many say the way the song was written was terrible. Many of the critics have made fun of her voice. Black has been holding the highest record of views and listens of a song for nine weeks. Black had a million plus dislikes on YouTube compared to 225,000 of likes (on the date of March 31st). Black had passed Justin Bieber’s single “Baby” on ITunes on April 1, 2011. Only at the age of 13 Rebecca Black has become a quick instant star on the Internet. It has been said that her parents had a lot to contribute to her success. Her parents had paid a producer to direct the song video and a writer to write the song. My type of music she sings is a new type of pop music. The emotions evoked of the song is real simple it is about a thirteen year old girl that talks about her Friday and how fun it can be. The first couple of lines are the start of the disaster for the song she sings “Seven a.m., waking up in the morning ,Gotta be fresh, gotta go downstairs” from then on the song is history. I somewhat agree with the critics the song is really on the lowest level of greatness but I do give Rebecca Black and the whole recording label for the effort and hard work they put in. Rebecca Black is a artist that is young and has future in comedy music which I believe she will do well in.

Guest Blogger: Michelle 3

We have something in common. I like to listen to country but if I would have to listen to one band it would have to be rascal flatts too. I have been listening to them ever since they started singing. Their songs just have so much meaning. And you’re right I think they do put a lot of time and effort into their songs. And I hope that they keep singing till the day that either they or I die. Probably them first but you get the hint. We also have something else in common. My favorite song is also “won’t let go” it just has so much meaning to it and it shows that he loves that girl or friend and that he will never leave and he wants to be there by her side till the end. The meaning in that song and why Gary sings that some is because of his girlfriend/wife he would like to be with her through the thick and thin, good or bad. He sang this some to show her that he loves her very much and that he would never do anything to hurt her,that he wants to be with her to the end.

Guest Blogger: Michelle 2

Carrie Underwood was born on March 10th 1983 in Checotah, Oklahoma, USA she grew up on a farm. She became a country singer in 2005 when she won American idol. Carrie has two older sisters Shanna & Stephanie. Carrie Underwood is one of my favorite singers because she sings about her life and other people’s lives that are around her like her family and also her friends. This one song that I like of hers would have to be “mama’s song.” The song is about how her mom is having a hard time letting her little girl go, she is afraid that her little girl is going to not be around anymore because she is getting married and she won’t ever come round anymore, but she is trying to tell her mom that she will be fine and not to worry about her. That the guy that she is marrying is good and he won’t do anything to hurt her. Carrie Underwood is my favorite singer because she has one of the best voices out there and she likes to write her own songs but also she gets a few songs from other people that they let her sing. Carrie is my inspiration because she doesn’t take anything from anyone and she is a very strong person when it comes to her and her family and friends. One of her songs that Randy Travis let her sing of his was “I told you so” she loves that song and she was happy that they let her sing it. “ I told you so” was one of her favorite songs growing up and Randy was one of her favorite singer growing up also. Carrie Underwood’s songs have so much meaning and they make sense. Her songs that she writes are about real life and not made up. That’s another thing that I like about her she don’t make things up when she sings she speaks the truth.

Guest Blogger: Kyle 3

Wiz Khalifa’s album Rolling Papers which had great success which sold 191,777 its first week. People were estimating he would sell around that first week. I think he lived up to the hype I actually went and bought the CD Rolling Papers the day it came out. This CD was number 2 on the sales list after the first week the album has been out. He actually released quite a few songs off the album before he actually had the release date set. I heard a few songs way before I knew the song list was out for Rolling Papers. Songs such as “On My Level”, “Black And Yellow”, “ The Race”,”Rooftops”, and “Star Of The Show”, were leaked before the album had come out. His songs had more of a hip hop and pop feel to it. It didn’t sound much like any mixtapes such as his latest Cabin Fever or the Classic Kush & Orange Juice. This album had some people questioning all the hype but he had more people loving this album then hating this album. I think Rolling Papers was good because it was different then all the stuff he usually puts out. The song “Rooftops” which Features Currency was pretty much talking about how far both of these rappers have come.

Guest Blogger: Kyle 2

Wale is now coming onto the Hip Hop scene with his latest released song called “The Break up Song” which is one of my favorite songs from Wale. He release a mixtape all based off the TV show “Seinfeld” which is called More About Nothing. The song that I like most off this mixtape is called “The Breeze” which feature Wiz Khalifa which I think is a really good collaboration with them both on this song. Wale just has a good flow to his music and I can listen to most of his song on repeat. Same With Wiz Khalifa. Wale signed with Rick Ross and Maybach music. He signed with Maybach about a month ago. Wale has had some good collaborations in my mind are with Wiz Khalifa, Rick Ross, Waka Flocka Flame , And even has a newer song with a up and coming artist Mac Miller. The first song that got people to notice Wale was “ Nike Boots”. He was signed to a local record label in Washington D.C. in 2006 and in that same year he was featured in the magazine called “Unsigned Hype” which shows off artist that are not being noticed but have made a good name for themselves. Some of my favorite lyrics from Wale come from the song called “ No Hands” Which features Roscoe Dash And Waka Flocka Flame. “Let me do my thing I got 16 for this Roscoe thing, but im almost done, Let me get back to it, a whole lotta loud and a little backwood ,A whole lotta money big tip I would, I put her on the train little engine could” that’s torwards the end of his verse to that song I think it was pretty good. I can see Wale releasing some pretty good songs from now.

Guest Blogger: Kendra 3

I agree with critics in the fact that Kesha is a good, hip, young artist and her music is what the younger population listen to or want to listen to. I think that she will continue to be “hip” with the kids and they will continue to listen to her and make her even more popular. I disagree with what she sings about because it sends the wrong message to the youth of the world. She sings about drugs, sex, alcohol, and stuff like this that eventually destroys your body. She is telling the youth to do these things because she sings about them, when she sings about what she does the younger kids will copy her because they look up to her and want to be like her (famous, pretty, popular). Kesha, yes, she has good music but she is careless and does what she wants without thinking about who will listen to it or who will try to be like her because they idolize her. If she started singing songs about other stuff that was appropriate she will probably not be as popular but it will send a good message to the younger kids.

Guest Blogger: Kenya 1

My favorite music artist is Ciara; she is an R&B Artist. when I am listing to her music I seem to connect to the lyrics, a lot of her songs reminds me of many situations that I have personally experience such as relationships, or just personality characteristic, Something I recently discover is Ciara and I both like the color gold and purple. Ciara music impacts my life a lot; I own four albums that she has produced and several singes. When Ciara is singing her songs a lot of times I feel like she is describing me as a person but really she is describing herself, Another artists whom music I enjoy to listing to is Donell Jones, who is a soul and R&B artist, a lot of his music I connect to emotionally, which is something Donell and Ciara have in common, both their music have a emotional contact to me that I seem to relate to. I feel that Donell Jones and Ciara should do a single together; It would impact a lot of fan who represent both artists like myself.
Most of the lyrics are the same for both songs, both artists sing about feelings of past relationships and always enjoy listing to both, I don’t think I could have it threw the day without music in general.
I wish one day, that I could meet any other artists I like, just to ask them what insipid them to write such relatable music, how did they feel writing the music, how did they get ideas? And who music inspires them? What keeps them writing, this are of the questions I would want to know about my favorite artists, I hope they keep writing good music because it keeps me in tune with my real feelings.

Guest Blogger: Katie L3

I would have to agree with your statement when you say Lady Gaga is confident. I believe that her confidence has brought her far throughout the music industry. Without her confidence, she may not have been able to pull off all the interesting trends she has made. Also, I agree with the uniqueness you mention about Lady Gaga. It is very true indeed that she stands out compared to other artists who have made it onto the Red Carpet. I’ve never seen any artist wear a meat dress before. Also, I did not know that she referred to her fans as “Little Monsters.” It shows her connectedness with fans and that she actually takes notice of them. Although her music may seem similar to others, she definitely puts her own twists in music videos, songs, and fashion which cannot even compare to other artists. Her song “Alejandro” is no doubt a song that has a catchy tune. Its message is also meaningful to those who take the time to listen and understand it. Also, “Bad Romance” is another song filled with meaning and emotion. The only critique I have about the two songs is that they are very repetitious, but I guess that is one reason why fans love them. It is something that is easy to sing and follow along with. I too feel that Lady Gaga does have a similar resemblance to Madonna, but they are not identical. I honestly do not spend my time or money on Lady Gaga, but she is well worth enough to be notice by others. Many fans, like you, find that rareness in Lady Gaga appealing and worth the time. My overall opinion of Lady Gaga still remains the same. I’m not a fan of hers, but I do think she is an artist that is acknowledgeable.

* Response to Jennie Laabs blog post

Guest Blogger: Katie L2

Nicki Minaj’s pop song, “Moment 4 Life,” is definitely something listeners have not heard before. The song explains Minaj’s feelings after her album releases. She clarifies how she appreciates what those have done for her. Also people going against her do not bother her. She expresses how even through the whole music business, she’ll always be herself, and that in this moment in her life, she feels the best; she feels alive. The beginning of the song gives people the thought of a music box. The music flows through you, and it gives you a calm feeling. Compared to other songs, “Moment 4 Life” is on a slower beat. Most songs, trying to lift the spirits of listeners, are upbeat; however, this song is able to raise a person’s mood even though its pace is slower. What really stand out in this song are the lyrics, “I wish that I could have this moment for life, for life, for life ‘cause in this moment I just feel so alive, alive, alive.” It shows her passion for music and what she does. This is a feeling of what most people can relate to when they do something they love. Minaj’s sets the scene of this song as something magical. Like the critics in Billboard say, “… delving into the romanticized plot of the video,” this song gives off the mood of something magical. It shows conveys the desire of having a passion for something. As an overall opinion, I feel that this song was worth the time and money. It has a mellow beat and features the rapper Drake. Lately, we don’t see many female rappers, but Minaj is definitely a talented one. Also the fact that Minaj is not from the United States, makes her all more interesting to listeners.

Guest Blogger: Jessie 3

I agree with Bryan’s post about Linkin Park. Like Bryan, I also listen to Linkin Park songs before a workout or game because their songs are so motivational. I also think that Minutes to Midnight was their best album because it had a good mix of songs. For example, the fourth track on the album, called “Bleed It Out,” is a fast mix of rapping (done by Mike Shinoda) with electric guitar in the background. Then towards the end of the song, Chester Bennington screams the last few verses. This track is very different from the next song on the album, “Shadow of the Day,” which has no rap and Chester Bennington singing softly. I think that this diversity that the band has caused it to have a very big and diverse fan base which I think is a really good thing for bands to have. And not only does Linkin Park write amazing music, but they also help out around the world. Linkin Park founded the Music For Relief charity, which provides relief to victims of natural disasters. Music For Relief is now helping out with victims of the Japan earthquake and Tsunami. I think that it’s really selfless of Linkin Park to do all of this volunteering and for that reason (and the fact that they write amazing songs), Linkin Park will always be my favorite band.

Guest Blogger: Jessie R2

My Chemical Romance is one of my favorite rock bands. Since the New Jersey band formed in 2001, they have dropped four amazing albums: I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love in 2002, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge in 2004, and The Black Parade in 2006. Their most recent album Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys just came out last year. The feel of this album is much different than their earlier albums. Their first three albums were kind of depressing and “emo” which actually caused a lot of controversy. This new album however gives a much different feeling. The songs on this album are triumphant, rebellious, and actually kind of uplifting. This new album is about all the things Gerald Way (the lead singer/songwriter) hates including how their band has gotten so famous. My Chemical Romance is similar to a lot of other rock bands including Smashing Pumpkins. But one band MCR has really modeled themselves after is Queen. One of my favorite songs on the new album is “Sing.” This song is memorable because it’s about how you should do what you want to do and not care about what people think of you. All the critics I’ve read so far have said that this new album is fun and the songs on it are really catchy. I definitely agree with them because I think all 12 tracks on this album are really good and I really enjoy listening to them. Another thing the critics say is MCR is staying modest and aren’t letting all the fame get to them, which I really think is good. Overall, if you really like catchy and rock music, MCR is definitely worth your time and money. They will always be one of my favorite bands because they’re so grounded and their music is really amazing.

Guest Blogger: Ellie 3

I thought your blog post of the Beatles was right on, and I agree with all that was said. I am a huge fan of the Beatles and I’ve always loved their music. I can agree that when you listen to their songs it puts in an uplifting mood, and I can always count on their songs to make me feel better if I’m not in a good mood. Another song that I believe was very influential along with “Hey Jude” was “All You Need is Love.” This song in my opinion shows one of many things that the Beatles stand for. The song is about how if you have some sort of love for other people, or if you have people that love you and care about you then you should be content with your life. Another artist that is similar to the Beatles and I think you should listen to is John Lennon. John Lennon was a part of the Beatles group but also wrote and sang many songs on his own. John Lennon’s type of music is very similar to the Beatles, obviously. But one difference that he had with the Beatles songs is that John Lennon doesn’t have very many upbeat songs, John Lennon was a peace activist so a lot of his songs were influenced by that.

Guest Blogger: Ellie 2

The Foo Fighters are one of my favorite bands. Foo Fighters type of music would be alternative or punk rock. This group has had seven albums. In the 90’s Dave Grohl was the drummer for the band Nirvana. If you have ever heard Nirvana’s music you can hear and feel that in a lot of Foo Fighters music. But don’t think their music style is exactly the same because as Foo Fighters grew as a group they set them themselves apart. The feel from the Foo Fighters is many different emotions. Foo Fighters use a technique in a lot of their songs where a verse is slow paced but then changes to loud choruses. Listening to these songs can sometimes make you feel like you’re getting anger out and can make you feel good because you can maybe relate to that certain song. Their music also has a lot of energy and I feel that it’s very natural. When comparing Foo Fighters to other artists I would compare them to Nirvana. Like I said Foo Fighters use a technique with soft verses and loud choruses, and Nirvana used this technique as well. One of Nirvana’s songs “Smells like Teen Spirit” had a lot of energy in it as well as many others; it was an anthem for all teenagers of that time. Nirvana and Foo Fighters sang about a lot of the same things going on in life. But I do feel that these two groups were very different from each other. “its times like these you learn to live again, it’s times like these you give and give again, it’s times like these you learn to love again” These lyrics are from the song “Times like These” This song I think is a memorable one because it’s a great song, and it has a good message that we can all relate to at some point in life. I think it’s memorable because it’s talking about starting over and having a new beginning. “The track kicks off in style. Perhaps their most aggressive moment since 'All My Life', crunching guitars drive 'The Pretender' to a dynamic chorus that demands bouncing around and to be shouted by crowds of thousands. The middle eight builds magnificently before letting you relax - before taking off all over again” A review of the album The Pretender. I agree with this review The Pretender was a great album and very different from their acoustic album and it was nice to hear something refreshing and different. Overall, Foo Fighters would definitely be worth the time and money. If you like alternative and punk rock then Foo Fighters is a group you would want to listen to.

Guest Blogger: Ellie 1

Lady Gaga in my opinion is a very talented artist. Lady Gaga’s type of music would be considered pop music. Lady Gaga’s albums and songs have a feel to them. The feel I get when listening to Lady Gaga’s music is they always want to make me dance. Her music makes me feel a sense of confidence. She puts out a message in her songs. For example the song “Born This Way” is a great example of how Lady Gaga puts a good message in her songs. “Born This Way” Is about having confidence in yourself, and no matter what you look like, or who you are it’s okay because you were born that way. Emotions that evoked through her albums and songs are good emotions, all of her songs are very up-beat so when you listen to them they make you feel good. When comparing Lady Gaga to other artists it is difficult because Lady Gaga is her own type of artist. But if I had to compare her work to other artists I would have to compare her to Madonna. Madonna was a pop icon in the 80’s. She was a very daring artist in the way she presented herself. Madonna’s music was feel good kind of music, up-beat. Madonna’s music had some type of message in them. In contrast though, Madonna made some slower songs that weren’t that up-beat but Lady Gaga’s type of music is normally always faster paced. “I'm beautiful in my way, cause God makes no mistakes, I'm on the right track baby, I was born this way” these are lyrics from the song “Born This Way” and I think this song and these lyrics are especially memorable because Lady Gaga is an advocate for gay rights and marriage and an advocate against bullying. This is memorable because she is sending an important message to her fans that no matter who you are that it’s okay to be yourself. “In my estimation, she's geniusly brilliant in all she does - with an innocence and coyishness that's fully deceiving” A critic’s review of her album “The Fame” I agree 100% with this review. Lady Gaga is a very talented person, and her image and her work sets her apart from many other artists. Overall I think that Lady Gaga is a very talented artist, someone who is always making headlines with her great music and unique image. I believe it’s worth the time and money to listen to her music and hopefully you find to like her music.

Guest Blogger: Dylan 3

I agree, Reeve, that Lil Wayne is one of the best rappers today. He is on a whole new level of rapping from all other rappers today. Only Eminem is at the same level as he is. He has very strong lyrics, and is not afraid to speak his mind about anything that he believes. His style and lyrics all flow very well together, and turn into a great song, no matter what he is rapping about. He is similar in style to Wiz Khalifa, in the sense that they rap about money, women, and drugs. Yes, it may be true that most rappers today rap about those things, but the way both Lil Wayne and Wiz Khalifa rap is very similar. Wiz Khalifa’s song “This Plane” is completely about getting high, which is similar to Lil Wayne’s song “Smoke that Kush.”

Guest Blogger: Dylan 2

Wiz Khalifa is one of the world’s newest rappers. His style is very different from many of the rappers of his era. Other big-name rappers of this period are Eminem and Lil Wayne. Eminem commonly raps about his past experiences, and Lil Wayne is known for rapping about money and women. Both rappers usually have very upbeat songs with fast beats and lyrics. Wiz Khalifa has a style almost the opposite of both Lil Wayne and Eminem. A lot of Wiz Khalifa’s songs are a slower beat and slower lyrics. They are usually dealing with drugs, one of his favorite topics to rap about. In fact, Wiz Khalifa was arrested in North Carolina and charged with possession of marijuana, where he was then sent to jail. One of his newer songs is “Roll Up,” is surprisingly about something other than marijuana: his “significant other.” As Mariel Concepcion wrote in her article “Wiz Khalifa, ‘Roll UP,’” “Khalifa confesses over synths and drums to his love interest, who finds herself cheating on her significant other with the MC” (Concepcion). Concepcion is right, in the fact he is talking about his significant other. Khalifa shows a softer, more gentle and friendly side to him in “Roll Up,” a song very different than most of his other songs. Overall, Wiz Khalifa’s song “Roll Up” is an upbeat, joyful song, and should definitely be listened to. Another of Wiz Khalifa’s more recent and probably most well-known songs is called “Black and Yellow.” Khalifa says that “Black and Yellow” is a tribute to the Pittsburgh Steelers, a professional football team. Jesse Serwer wrote in his article that the song “makes up for the song’s pedestrian theme (‘I put it down from the whip to my diamonds’) with a winning deliver and undeniable charisma” (Serwer). Serwer’s comment about the “undeniable charisma” of “Black and Yellow” is about the best way to describe the song, as it is very upbeat and creates emotions of excitement when you listen to it. As stated above, Wiz Khalifa is at the forefront of the rapping world, and his two songs “Roll Up” and “Black and Yellow” are a new, different style from the rapper’s typical songs. He is definitely someone you would want to listen to, and I rate him as a 9 out of 10.

Guest Blogger: Cait M3

Connor, I agree that The Beatles are the greatest band of their time period (a lot of critics even go so far as to say they are the best band of all time). I think of several reasons why they left such an imprint on pop-culture. One would be the variety of sounds and lyrics they used in their music. From the clanky sound of “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer” to the trippy, far east sound of “Norwegian Wood” they keep it interesting to listen to. Another reason would be as you said, they brought people together. They were essentially the “people’s band” and always stood for peace and equality. I would also agree that their music gives off happy vibes, whenever I listen to “She Loves You” or “Here Comes The Sun” I can’t help but smile and get in a more positive mood. If you liked The Beatles music, there is a song that John Lennon did with Elton John after the breakup of The Beatles called “Whatever Get’s You Through the Night” and it puts you in a good mood just like The Beatles do. I would definitely recommend this band to anyone who loves music, it’s one of those staple bands that everyone should have on their iPod or at least have knowledge of. I would also agree with you that their music is well worth the time and money.

Guest Blogger: Cait M2

Out of the many genre’s and music artists I’ve listened to over the years I would say with certainty that Muse is in my top 5 favorites. The alternative space-rock trio rose to fame in early 2001 and ever since they have sold out concerts, won awards, and made into many movie soundtracks. I remember the first song I heard from Muse was “Time Is Running Out”. The lyrics spoke of a love so great and so destructive that the singer couldn’t hold it back. When the lyrics were melded with the alternative-rock sound and the haunting baroque sound similar to Queen, I knew I stumbled across something big. After listening to their other albums, I really appreciated the different emotions and sounds they put into each song and they could create such a wide range of emotion with the same heavy-rock or space-rock sounds. Muse’s hit song “Apocalypse Please” from their album Absolution is a grandiose song that tries to send the listener a message of a comic book tragedy with dramatic piano and loud drums. Although most fans and critics gave the album good ratings, one critic thought it a bit too dramatic. “Absolution is a tad cheesy, a bit too grandiose in its ambitions, bursting at the seams with too many ideas, and thus exactly what any Muse fan craves.” I would agree that one of the main reasons why listeners like Muse is because it’s got so much going on in each song, but I wouldn’t say that makes it cheesy at all. In their fourth album Black Holes and Revelations, Muse lived up to their name by creating yet another hit single that differed from their other songs: “Knights of Cydonia.” This song is a strange combination of space and western with lyrics about a wanted fugitive in his ‘final shootout’ with the good guy. One reoccurring throughout all of this is the lead singer Matthew Bellamy. His emotional intensity and falsetto pieces are one of the things that make their music so good, but many critics say that he’s just a copy of Thom Yorke; lead singer of Radiohead. Although he cited Radiohead as one of his influences, his vocal range never goes down as far as Yorke’s in his music and of course each artist has their own personal signature. Overall I would say that Muse is a band that is worth the money and the time, the only album of theirs I wouldn’t buy is their most recent: The Resistance. They ventured a little out of what they usually do and created the 3 part “Exogenesis Symphony” and “Neutron Star Collision”, which I thought sounded pretentious and completely borrowed from other artists.

Guest Blogger: Bryan 3

Reeve, I agree with what you are saying and you picked a great artist to write about. I too wrote about Lil Wayne and what a great rapper he is. It's true, everyone wants Lil Wayne featured in some of their songs, he adds a sick verse and really can save a dull song and add excitement. He truly delivers a good song most of the time and his albums are always the best. I could sit at home all day and listen to his music, it never gets old. I know what Reeve is saying when he says that blasts Lil Wayne’s music in his car. The bass is always ridiculous and really makes you feel like you are in another world when you are listening to his music. Lil Wayne just puts so much passion and heart into all of his songs that you can feel that he really means what he is rapping about. I also like the connection Reeve made with the song he chose. I too used to play basketball way back in the day and now have a job and make money. Not as much as Bill Gates of coarse but moneys money. Overall, I know what Reeve is talking about and I can see where he is coming from when he writes about Lil Wayne.

Guest Blogger: Nansi 1

Nicki Minaj a famous female rapper from the group young money was found by Lil Wayne and his group YM (young money). He like her unique way of rapping and style. The sucka free mixed cd was what popped Minaj to the top of the game. People started noticing her unique ways and started putting her in their songs. As 2010 approach Nicki Minaj brought out a album called pink Friday after the famous holiday black Friday as I said before she’s a unique person and have a very confusing personality to some people but others understand her and get her music. Basically minaj’s music is talking about the struggles she had as a child and then other raps would be about her achievements and how she’s overcoming everything in her past. Her songs are very hard-core you just have to sit and listen to the words instead of the song. I think her type of music is meant for anyone who doesn’t let anything get in their way and is strong willing, a person that understands what it’s like to go through the pain, struggles and finally make it on top. Growing up Minaj thought that to be on top of the rap game you would have to speak about sex all the time in your rap to be on the billboards, but she later found out you don’t have to do all that everyone has their own way of reaching to people with their music and their fame. That’s what makes her pop and so likeable, she found her own way of connecting with everyone. even though some might call her a disaster or might say she has three personalities its what makes her Nicki Minaj and the most famous female rapper as of this moment and I don’t think she’s going anywhere anytime soon.

Guest Blogger: Andrew W3

Eminem, great choice of a music star! Dylan, great choice for a blog! You can never stop writing about this guy! You are exactly right along the lines of showing that Eminem has done some really massive deals in the music world being he is a white male in a strictly black environment. You are exactly correct on his lyrics and the story that is told in almost every song. He also has a movie about his life in which he wrote all the lyrics to every song in the movie. I like how raps and writes everything that he has grown up with or has happened to him in the past! Also he does rap about troubles with in other people and Dylan you did a nice job of telling that Eminem does do that. You are right on the self criticism part! He is not all about getting him the sappy attention and is not afraid to pick himself apart on things that may bother other people and it is true that people do criticize him. He has been a major target when he was in his prime! In all Dylan did a very nice job on this blog about Eminem! You hit all the points and went into detail too!

Guest Blogger: Alex N1

One artist that has recently become one of my favorite people to listen to is J. Cole. He is a rapper from Fayetteville, North Carolina. All of his music is hip/hop, but some songs have a softer feel to it, not quite like R&B, but different from the same “hard” rap songs that are most common today. Most of his songs will tell little stories about segments of his life, or things that he has seen another person go through. They are mostly stories about hard times that he has had to conquer. They give his music more of a real feel to it that really makes people think about how tough life can be for someone that isn’t living in the best neighborhood, or someone that has lost a loved one. It can also give comfort to someone listening to his songs that has gone through the same things that he is writing about; they can listen to his songs and hear about how he was able to fight through, and stay strong during tough times, so even when there isn’t anyone there physically to help them, his songs can aid them in whatever they’re going through. Something pretty unique about him is he makes quite a few references to God in his music as well, such as in his song, “Show Me Something” he says, “I’m asking if you can hold me down lord, be my umbrella-ella-ella in this down pour.” In these lyrics he is asking his lord to help him get through a hard time his is dealing with. One rapper that is pretty similar to J. Cole is the one and only Tupac. In J. Cole’s song, “Show Me Something” he says, “I sit and reminisce on them ni**as no longer here and how I used to hit the mall and y’all was always there,” he also says, “I’m a man, so I cannot let them tears fall” and then in Tupac’s song, “Life Goes On” he says, “it’s time to bury another brother, nobody cry.” They’re both talking about people they are close with losing their lives, but to try to stay strong and not shed any tears. A lot of people that have posted on blogs about him, such as the blog on Entertainment Weekly which is talking about his hot new song, “Who Dat” are saying that J. Cole is the future of rap and that he “kills” every verse he’s on, in other words, he puts together very good lyrical verses that exceed most verses from rappers that have been rapping for twice as long as him. I could not agree more, everything he raps about has some type of meaning, most rappers now-a-days will rap about all of the fancy cars, or houses they have, or have a reference to them smoking marijuana, they really are rapping about the same thing in every song and there isn’t a true meaning present in their lyrics, other than, “I have a really nice house, cars and smoke a lot.” Also the passion J. Cole expresses in his music is very clear, he is writing music because it is his love and he wants people to know the struggles he’s been through and the long, tough road he has traveled down to get to the destination he is at right now. I would definitely recommend J. Cole to anyone that is a hip/hop fan; even someone that doesn’t normally like rap should listen to a few songs, I really think his music has a spot for almost everyone.

Guest Blogger: Alex N2

The rap artist I have been listening to for probably the longest is T.I. I started listening to him when I was in 6th grade and as a senior in high school now I still listen to him quite often. He is a rapper from Atlanta, Georgia. One of my favorite albums he has put together was released towards the end of September 2008 known as Paper Trail. The album has many feels to it, some songs promote listeners to feel joy he is feeling, other songs show some of the pain he is feeling, it is a pretty well balanced album. T.I.’s songs can be pretty comparable with the rapper Jay-Z’s songs. A lot of their songs are about struggles they have gone through, both when they were dealing drugs on the streets and talking about their lives as mainstream artists. One memorable quote spoken by T.I. goes, “God will take you through hell, just to get you to heaven.” This quote is memorable because it was said after he had been issued a jail sentence for having unlicensed weapons back in 2008. He is saying that although he is entering a dark time of his life, it won’t last forever and it will only be good things once it’s all over with. Many people have been saying that his album Paper Trail deserves a higher rating than the “B+” rating given by Entertainment Weekly in their review about the album which was written by Margeaux Watson. I completely agree, Paper Trail is one of the best albums I have heard, there is not a single song that I skip when I listen to it, it definitely deserves a higher rating. For people that like hip-hop and rap, I would surely recommend T.I., but I probably wouldn’t suggest his music to those who aren’t a fan of this genre of music. He truly is a great artist and is very experienced at what he does. Over the quite of few years that I have been listening to him he has not changed much at all, he stays true to the way he writes and they way he speaks his voice. Since I started listening to him about 6 or 7 years ago, I have become a fan of many different rappers, only to shortly move away from listening to them as their music started to change with their age, but T.I. is the only artist that I still listen to after this many years of listening to rap, to me he is definitely considered one of the best to ever pick up the mic.

Guest Blogger: Alex N3

This is a response to Dylan’s blog about Eminem. As he stated in his blog about Eminem being an all-time great rapper, I would have to completely agree. He has sold millions of albums, and for a good reason too. His music is real, he raps about his life, even the darkest of times. He doesn’t leave anything behind, he will tell listeners things that other rappers would never confess. I think this gives listeners a special connection with him that they don’t feel with any other rappers, or even artists of any music for that matter. Eminem uses his music as a way to vent and let everyone know how he feels, not just to make music to kill some time. If I had to pick a rapper to compare him to I think I would probably choose Tupac. Tupac, just like Eminem, used music as a way to get stories and dark secrets out to the public, as a way to get things off their chest. Songs made by both of them can also be used to help someone going through a hard time. It always makes struggles easier to conquer when there is someone else that has gone through something similar, and both of these artists can provide that sense of comfort.

Guest Blogger: Abdul 2

Slaughterhouse is one of my favorite music groups. They are based on hip hop and they have one of the best rappers still in the game today. Joe Budden and Joel Ortiz are one of my favorite rappers in the group. They started to rise in 2005, and they became good friends so they decided to team together and become a group. There was a lot of ups and downs in their career but there very successful. The emotions they sing are pretty intense they usually talk about the hard times they had in the New York – New Jersey are and how they were raised and how things were then and now. Most people compare slaughterhouse to another group named dipset. They sing about mostly the same things and how it’s all about getting money and most people thing that that slaughter house and dip set are just one big group. The reason why they think that is because that there all friends. One lyric that is memorable is “You herbs we merged, we're an alliance we fight fire with flamethrowers, why would you try us? We an outfit, equivalent to Voltron's
That boy Crooked I is equivalent to four arms Joel Ortiz is the body
The cannibal slash killer, kill you then eat your body.” I like that line because it makes a lot of sense. Most critics say that the slaughter house group express their feelings through most of there songs. I agree with the critics opinions about this group because they are very talented. They choose their words appropriately. One thing I disagree about the opinions the critics say is that they tell the public to commit crimes and all those stereotypes. Well my opinion is that the slaughter house music group is worth our time and money because it’s very interesting. There concerts are not that expensive and the music is pretty decent.

Guest Blogger: Trevor 1

My opinion on linkin park is that they are one of the most successful bands out there. The band started out in Mike Shinoda’s small bedroom studio. That’s where he and Brad Delson recorded their first material in 1996. The two of them were in high school together where they met the band’s drummer Rob Bourdon. Shinoda hooked up with DJ Joseph Hahn while studying illustration at art Center College in Pasadena. In 2002, they released a remix album of their hybrid theory album called Reanimation, As well as releasing a remix version of their song,’Points Of Authority. In 2003 their new studio album was released, titled Meteora, which was ranked number 1 in the U.S. and U.K. and #2 in Australia. It had songs like bleed it out, numb, and many more. Personally my favorite song by linkin park is bleed it out. Most of linkin parks songs are not like sad emotions but they are up to beat and give off a happy like feeling, well atleast to me. One of linkin parks songs says, “Hand grenade pins in every line. Throw them up and let something shine” and it’s memorable because you can just imagine it because the beat is so memorable. Later in the year, they joined with nu-metal band Limp Bizkit and Metallica for the Summer Sanitarium Tour 2003. From this tour, Linkin Park released a new CD/DVD set called Live in Texas. This set contains tracks from their three previous records, and was filmed on location at their Summer Sanitarium performances in Dallas and Houston, Texas . On November 30th 2004 Linkin Park released and album mix with rapper Jay-Z and was rated number 1 in the U.S. Linkin Park is doin amazing especially with the rock competitors that it has like Papa Roach, Disturbed, P.O.D. and many others. All from being one of the most successful acts in 2000 Linkin Park has came a long way from starting in a bedroom studio with 1 friend and himself. Personally I think Linkin Park will always be on my favorites list just the way they make their songs and by the info I just posted you can see why. Personally I think some of the music made is a waste but linkin park became very popular and paid off. (Spin.com)

Guest Blogger: Nicole 2

This rock and roll band may not be that popular but they sure do have a lot of meaning in their songs. They have upbeat rock songs or they have the slow songs with deep meaning to them. They are unique and have different voices, which make them different from any other rock band. Their album “Don’t Fake It,” has a mixture of heavy metal music to soft sensual tracks. The song “Cat and Mouse,” is a great song for couples that have problems and all of the mind games that can happen in relationships. It is a soft and slower song that could give a person that sensual feeling. Another song called “Face Down,” is more upbeat and talks about domestic violence in a hard rock kind of way. There is a lot of guitar in the song and it shows how much talent the band has as a whole. They are the entire package except for the fact that they aren’t that popular of a band. The feeling that people get from this The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus is that they can relate to you and sing about life. Sometimes I feel like they have a religious side to them and they put that into their music. You don’t necessarily find that type of lyrics in those songs and people like how it can apply to literally everybody that listens to them. Even though you might not see the religious vibe that it brings, some people do and that’s what makes them likable. Overall, I think that The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus is a great band and deserves to be more popular because they can relate to everyone and speak about life in a good and negative way. People need music that they can relate to and this band does a great job of doing that for people.

Guest Blogger: Nicole 1

Katy Perry is very well known for her pop/ techno music sensations. Teenagers are most appealed to her music because her songs are fun and very catchy. Often people notice that her songs get stuck in their head and the point is so that people will keep listening to them and then eventually buy them. Also, after a while her songs may seem sickening and to the point where they get annoying. Critics say that when people listen to her songs that it often brings back relatable memories, which make them, buy her songs more especially when her songs can apply to something that has happened to them before. She has had many hits that have come about in the last few years. One of them is “I Kissed a Girl” released on her album “One of Those Boys” in 2008. There were many people talking about this number in both a positive and negative way. People that were positive about it thought it was catchy, that she was just being honest and trying to have fun while singing her new song. Other opinions about it that are negative consist of people who go out and expose themselves and try these things which aren’t necessarily appropriate. Another song by Katy Perry that just came out this year, 2011, called “E.T.” standing for extraterrestrial. It has become a very popular song directed towards teenagers about being in love. It is a fun and outgoing song that would be a great pick for playing at a party. However, parents have been complaining about how there is extreme sexual references in the song that they don’t want their children exposed too. Even though kids may not think about the song as being sexual there are still references that make people skeptical. Overall, I think that Katy Perry is worth money and that her songs are the life of the party.

Guest Blogger: Natasha 2

The next review that I’m doing is on Rihanna she sings hip hop and R&B. When you listen to Rihanna’s music I have a feel of upbeat and want to sing along, and some of her songs make you want to dance. Another artist that sings hip hop would be Mariah Carey some of her songs are similar to Rihanna’s, when I say similar I mean they make you have the same emotions and feel. I think that most of Mariah songs though are softer and not so upbeat. Another artist I would compare to Rihanna is Beyonce there music is probably more similar in emotions and how it makes you feel then Mariah. I think that a lot of Beyonce songs are upbeat just like Rihanna’s while at the same time some are more romantic like Rihanna music. “What’s my name” is one of Rihanna songs that are one of my favorites because it’s upbeat and happy and usually puts me in a good mood. “Love The Way You Lie” she sings this with Eminem, this song gets me pumped up and energized that’s the main reason why I love this song. I disagree with what the critics are saying about the song “Love The Way You Lie”, some critics are saying its more about Eminem then it is about Rihanna, or that she is the one setting Eminem on fire. I believe that the song is about both their lives and they are trying to show that the relationship in the song is not an ideal or healthy relationship. I also disagree with the critics that say Rihanna worships the devil. I don’t know why people would say that about someone when they don’t even probably personally know them that well, and the only way we would know for sure if she did worship the devil is if she came out and said she did. In my opinion I think buying her music would be a great idea she has a good variety of music.

Guest Blogger: Mariam 3

I agree with Natasha’s blog about Trey Song. He is absolutely the best R&B artist. Critics do say that Trey Song has become the face of Rap and Blues (R&B). Personally I find that very true. I agree with Natasha’s blog about Trey Song. Trey Song’s new album Passion, pain and pleasure has the right tracks to make you feel calm, collective and emotion to love. The track “Unfortunate” is what Natasha mentioned her most memorable songs that she can relate to. In details, this song is mainly about having someone who had doubted you and didn’t believe in you. When someone doubts you they try to get rid of you and find someone else. However, while they are with that someone else they find themselves having that other person treating them wrong so it turned out to be bad karma for them, unfortunately. I believe we can all relate to karma and doubts at some point in our life time. I believe that the tracks in Trey Song’s album Passion, Pain and Pleasure, are all in the feel of different emotions. Sometimes you will feel angry, sometimes you will feel calm, and pleasant. But mostly you will like you can connect. As Natasha stated, if you like a good looking man that sings R&B do yourself a favor and go buy his album Passion, Pain and Pleasure.

Guest Blogger: Mariam 2

Guess who? She’s from Queens, N.Y. She is the most polarizing figure in rap, hip-hop, and R&B music. She is a new artist signed on with Young Money. Some listeners see her as a guiding light for the current crop of female ring master; when her first album released in stores, it sold out rarely quickly. She comes in three persons, Barbie, Roman, and Nicki Minaj. Yup! That’s right Nicki Minaj is the newest rapper in the game. Her album that sold out incredibly fast was Pink Friday. This album includes features with Kanya West, Ludacris, Mariah Carey, Eminem and several others. My favorite track in this album would have to be “Monster”. In this track I can clearly see Nicki Minaj’s male counterparts. Where she is aggressively addressed her magnetic flair and unquestionable grind. The lyric, (“So let me get this straight, Wait, I’m the rookie? But my features and my shows 10 times ya pay? 50K for a verse, no album out”), has this passion to let everyone know that she is not a fake person and she’s coming out real and aggressive. So I don’t agree with spin’s critics, Marc Hogan, saying that the song “Monster” will be very disappointed doing it with West. But I do agree with Marc Hogan that albums are not hot when you have all rap music. This is why Nicki Minaj’s album Pink Friday will alarm you with different emotions because it includes different genre. Nicki Minaj clearly reminds me of another artist who also has 3 characters in one. He also had the fastest album sold in history back in 2000. He is known has Rabbit, Slim Shady or his stage name Eminem. Eminem duet with Nicki made millions blow up in cheer. Her style and his style both killed it with the track “Roman’s Revenge”. It couldn’t get any better than that. If you like to be promised that you’ll have a good time, I strongly advise you to go out and get Pink Friday.

Guest Blogger: Lindsey 3

Allison I totally agree with you, Jason Derulo is also one of my favorite R&B singers. I to enjoy listening to his music because it’s mostly upbeat and like you said it puts you in a smoothing mood. I thought it was interesting that you compared Jason Derulo to Trey Songz. At first I didn’t see a resemblance between their music but you pointed out that their songs have similar meanings. An artist that I think is similar to Jason Derulo is Iyaz. He is also an R&B singer and has a similar voice and style of music as Jason Derulo. Iyaz’s song “Replay” is similar to Jason Derulo’s song “In My Head”. Each song is about a man thinking about a girl that they like. Another artist that I think is similar to Jason Derulo is Sean Kingston. Sean Kingston is an R&B singer who has been in the music industry for a few years. Sean Kingston song “Beautiful Girls” is about a girl who left him and he still wants her back. In Jason Derulo’s song “Whatcha Say,” is about Jason realizing that he wants his girl back. These songs are similar to one another because it’s about a person realizing if they want to be with someone or not. Allison I disagree with you, thinking that it was a good idea for Jason Derulo to name his album after himself. Yes, it is creative but at the same time some people might see it as being cocky. He seems even cockier by having his cover album a picture of himself. All though, I’m not sure what I would want it to be instead. Overall, I do agree with you that Jason Derulo is a great artist and I to would spend my money on him!

Guest Blogger: Lindsey 1

Justin Bieber is seventeen years old and is a singer-songwriter, musician, and actor. Justin Bieber is known for being a pop, dance-pop, teen pop and R & B artist. He has four albums out named My World 2.0, My Worlds Acoustic, Never Say Never-The Remixes, and Never Say Never. In these albums Justin Bieber features Ludacris, Chris Brown, Sean Kingston, Jaden Smith, Usher, and Rascal Flatts. Justin Bieber’s music allows people to feel with a variety of emotions. With his more upbeat songs such as “One Time,” “Baby,” “Somebody to Love,” people feel bubbly, excited, joyful, and full of life. People feel this way in these songs because the music is mostly vocals allowing the listener to hear the words clearly. In Justin Bieber’s acoustic song “Pray” it creates an intimate and spiritual mood. It allows the listener to reflect on their life and making them want to make a change in the world. There are a lot of people who love Justin Bieber’s music; they might also like Aaron Carter or Jesse McCartney music as well. Aaron Carter and Jesse McCartney both became famous in their teen years. There genre of music is the exact same as Justin Bieber and they sing very similar songs. Aaron Carters song “I want Candy” is similar to Justin Bieber’s song “Baby.” Both songs are of them singing about a girl they like. Jesse McCartney song “Beautiful Soul” is similar to Justin Bieber’s song “One Less Lonely Girl.” Both songs are of them singing about a girl and how they will treat her good. One of my favorite songs by Justin Bieber is “Love Me.” This song is featured in the album My World 2.0. The reason why I like this song so much is that the lyrics are very catchy, and it’s easy to sing along with because the lyrics are repeated very often. My favorite lyrics in the song are:
“Love me, Love me
Say that you love me
Fool me, Fool me
Oh how you do me
Kiss me, Kiss me
Say that you miss me
Tell me what I wanna hear
Tell me u love me.”
Another song that I like by Justin Bieber featuring Jaden Smith is “Never Say Never.” The lyrics that I like in this song are:
“I gotta be the best, and yes
We're the flyest.
Like David and Goliath,
I conquered the giant.”
The reason why I like these lyrics are because it reminds me of when I was in Sunday school learning about David and Goliath. I enjoy listening to Justin Bieber’s music and I have heard nothing but good opinions from the critics. One critic referred to Justin Bieber’s album My World Acoustic as “It repackages the 16-year-old singer's most intimate songs from his two albums and offers new material in the form of "Pray," treacle but well-meaning ballad that taps into Bieber's spiritual beliefs.” Another critic referred to Justin Bieber’s album My World 2.0 as “In addition to having a more dominant R&B feel than his first release, the album is described as edgier and more mature. In addition to the R&B sound, the album also combines it with pop and hip-hop sounds.” Overall, I believe that Justin Bieber is a very talented singer-songwriter, musician, and actor. I think that Justin Bieber’s music is for female teenagers that enjoy hearing songs about love. Also Justin Bieber does appreciate the support from his fans that he documented a movie of his tours for them. This movie is named Never Say Never. I think that everybody should at least listen to one of his songs and from there on they can decide if he is the artist for them.

Guest Blogger: Lindsey 2

Dwayne Michael Carter, Junior better known as Lil Wayne is 28 years old. He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on September 27, 1982. At the age of nine years old Lil Wayne joined Cash Money Records and began his rapping career. Lil Wayne’s genre of music is considered hip hop and rap. Lil Wayne has nine albums out named Guerrilla Warfare, The Block Is Hot, Lights Out, 500 Degreez, Tha Carter, Tha Carter II, Tha Carter III, Rebirth, and I Am Not a Human Being. On his albums Lil Wayne featured Nicki Minaj, Drake, Lil Twist, T-Pain, Juelz Santana, Birdman, and Eminem. When I listen to Lil Wayne’s music it makes me want to go out and have a good time. I feel this way because his music is so fast that it makes me energetic and awake. I think that you could compare one of the best rapper Lil Wayne to one of the worst rapper Soulja Boy. Soulja boy’s genre of music is also hip hop and rap. I think that Lil Wayne is a much better rapper then Soulja Boy because his most successful album was on the chart for 173 weeks. Soulja Boy’s most successful album was on the chart for seven weeks. Also in Lil Wayne songs there are good metaphors and similes. Soulja Boy raps about one thing in each song and it gets very repetitive. A few examples of Lil Wayne’s metaphors and similes are; “One named mac, one named rina, make you do tha macarana,” “I keep that toaster, you can be my pop tart,” “She need a candle lit, and ima wax that,” “Cover your nose like a clown,” “Tell dem hataz cut it out like a coupon,” and “You might wanna fall back like August.” An example of Soulja Boys repetitive song is Booty Meat. Soulja boy repeats this line 16 times in the song “girl shake dat booty meat, dat booty meat, shake dat booty meat, dat booty meat.” This song gets very annoying and you wouldn’t want to listen to get more than once. One of my favorite songs by Lil Wayne is “Down” which featured Jay Sean. This song is very catchy; it pumps me up and puts me in a good mood. It pumps me up because it was on my warm-up CD for JM soccer this year. The part I like best about the song is when Lil Wayne is rapping:
“Even if the sky is falling down like she supposed to be,
She gets down low for me,
Down like her temperature, ’cause to me she zero degree,
She cold, overfreeze,
I got that girl from overseas,
Now she my miss America,
now can i be her soldier please,
I’m fighting for this girl,
On the battlefield of love,
Don’t it look like baby cupid sending arrows from above,
Don’t you ever leave the side of me,
Indefinitely, not probably,
and honestly im down like the economy,
Yeahhhhhh.”
I think that Lil Wayne’s music is very appealing to teenagers. Lil Wayne has a very distinct voice which makes it easy to recognize him on the radio. Also Lil Wayne is very musically talented since he raps and plays the guitar. I agree with the critic who mentioned that in his album Rebirth “The lyrics stay dutifully on topic, while the music has power chords, crashing drums and more riffs than melodies, along with some shaky jabs of lead guitar probably played by Lil Wayne himself.” Overall, I think it’s worth your money to purchase a Lil Wayne album because he has very creative similes and metaphors and features many artists. Lil Wayne has had a very successful career so far and it will continue to grow over the years.

Guest Blogger: Lauren 2

Whether ¬¬¬¬ Tom Petty is going solo under his own name or with the Heartbreakers, a bad album has never been made. With a musical career that is now over thirty five years old, I cannot get enough of Tom Petty’s music. With hits like, “Mary Jane’s Last Dance”, “The Joker” and “Learning to Fly” the band creates a versatile sound that is a mixture between classic rock and new wave, and never seems to have a song that sounds alike. One song that will forever be tied to Tom Petty is, “Free Fallin’” a wildly popular song still today that has been covered by musical artists such as Three Days Grace, John Mayer, and Lady Antebellum. “She's a good girl, loves her mama, loves Jesus and America too. She's a good girl, crazy 'bout Elvis, loves horses and her boyfriend too,” the opening verse to “Free Fallin’” which is soon followed by the famous chorus line, “And I’m free, I’m free fallin’,” create a calm, slow song that always makes me feel happy. Another song that Tom Petty put out under his solo career “American Girl” is an excellent example of Petty’s ability to tell a story through a song, which he does over and over in many of his songs, “Well, she was an American girl, raised on promises. She couldn't help thinkin' that there was a little more to life somewhere else.” I have found that most critics give massive amounts praise to Tom Petty with or without the Heartbreakers, which I personally could not agree with more. As one of my all time favorite musical artists, I would strongly recommend that anybody that enjoys rock music especially that of the seventies and eighties should check out Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers because of their versatility; you will never be bored with the music.

Guest Blogger: Lauren 1

Robert James “Bob” Ritchie, most commonly known by his stage name, Kid Rock, recently released his ninth studio album, “Born Free” which features musical guests such as Sheryl Crow, Martina McBride, Bob Seger, and T.I. This new album and the album previously released, “Rock N Roll Jesus” find the artist returning to his southern rock roots with hits like, “All Summer Long” which is a mash up of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama” and Warren Zevon’s, “Werewolves in London.” Kid Rock’s most recent album debuted at the number one spot on the Billboard Rock Albums Chart and the single, “Born Free” has had a huge success not only on charts but the radio as well with lyrics such as,” Free, like a river raging. Strong, if the wind I'm facing. Chasing dreams and racing fathered time. Deep, like the grandest canyon, wild, like an untamed stallion, if you can't see my heart you must be blind.” The song has a wide range of musical variety such as a slow beat that features a grand piano instead of a guitar which transitions into drums with an incredibly powerful final chorus. The album also features “Times Like These,” a touching, personal song for Rock, “I heard them say they're shutting Detroit down but I won't leave cause this is my hometown and it's times like these we can't replace it's times like these we must embrace.” Having grown up in Detroit, Michigan, Kid Rock always manages to voice his love for the city on all of his records. As billboard.com states, “’Born Free’ lets Kid Rock get back to what he does best: making classic music with a modern twist,” and with that ability to make modern rock, I am sure that Kid Rock will continue to make great music in the future.

Guest Blogger: Kendra 2

Gretchen Wilson is a great artist just because she tells women its okay to be wild and crazy. In her songs she talks about getting down and dirty and still being a sexy woman. One of her song is called Redneck Woman and it basically says she’s the girl next door who goes four wheeling and she doesn’t need expensive things to look sexy and she tells woman how to be a crazy country girl and still be sexy and feminine. Gretchen Wilson also has another song called Come to Bed and it talks about how when a man and a woman have a fight one the only things you can do to fix the problem is to just go to bed with your loved one. She mentions how when you say something you don’t really mean and how they both just want to stop fighting and the only way that with happen is if they both shut up and just love each other. Gretchen Wilson is a single mother who is a strong and beautiful woman that lots of women look up to. There are a lot of people out there who think country music is for backwoods hillbillies who are missing teeth and can’t spell, but Gretchen Wilson is one of the many who proves that statement wrong. She’s not afraid to get down and dirty and I think she help other woman feel more comfortable with themselves when they have to get dirty. Gretchen Wilson also talks about working hard but it’s ok to have play time too. In her song Work Hard Play Harder she talks about all these different jobs she has and when she’s not working she goes out and has a good time, even if she’s tired. I think she’s just one of those singers that people listen to when they’ve had a crappy day and need to smile a little bit.

Guest Blogger: Kendra 1

Ke$ha is a good artist because of her unique style. She is overall unique, with her wardrobe, music, her life. Ke$ha sings about stuff people do, including herself (I’m guessing), and makes it entertaining to all audiences. She speaks what’s on her mind and doesn’t care what people say, she is her own woman. For instance her song “tik tok”, she sings about drinking and getting guys. She is living it up and having fun while she is still young. Also, the song “your love is my drug” because she talks about how she cant’s live without someone’s (I’m not sure who) love. She is addicted to the love like its drugs. Another song she sings is “blah blah blah”, this song is about someone talking when she doesn’t want to talk, she would rather do other things and she is trying to let them know she doesn’t care what they are saying to her. As you can tell from these examples she does what she wants and doesn’t care what people say. I guess you could say she is conceited because she likes it to be all about her. I don’t really know how else to explain her other than she is a unique person, she does what she wants, and she can be a little conceited. These things put her at the top of the charts. People like her because she is so unique and she expresses it through her music and it catches everyone’s attention. Her style of music is upbeat and that’s another reason people like it. Even though she hasn’t been an artist too long she is still taking it to the top and she will go far with her music and continue to blow up the charts with her upbeat, unique, catchy, and of course interesting songs.

Guest Blogger: Katie 3

I would also agree with Chelsey that Carrie Underwood is an amazing singer and lots of people can relate to her songs. She grew up in a small town and tried out for American Idol, and won. Chelsey said that she is an inspiration to her, and she is to me also. I feel like I can relate to her because she went through challenges that all teenagers face. She hasn’t been a star her whole life, so she still tries to be as normal as possible. She sings about falling in love, boys, and growing up. These are things that most people can relate too which make her songs more enjoyable. I also love the song “So Small” because it talks about if you have a big challenge in your life you might be sad, but if you look at it from a different perspective, it’s really just a small piece of your life that won’t matter that much. Another one of my favorite songs from her is “Mama’s Song.” This song explains how her mom raised her, but there is a time in most girls’ lives where they get married and their mom has to learn to let go. This is one of my favorite songs because I know I will be going through the same thing some day and I can be thankful for my relationship with my mom. Carrie Underwood is also one of my favorite singers because she has slow and calming songs and also fun and upbeat songs. Having a variety of lyrics and beats makes you able to listen to her music no matter what mood you are in. Her music makes listening to the radio fun, and it is worth putting my time and money into. I would recommend her music to anyone because she is a great country singer.

Guest Blogger: Josh Pa3

I agree with Bryce they’re (Gorrilaz)definitely one of the most unique bands I have ever listen to, and yet they are one of the most recognizable bands just because of their uniqueness. As of them being a cartoon band, I think that’s just what they like because they do live shows on and off television, so I don’t think they would make music video’s just to hide their identity I think it’s more of a thing that they like. I agree with Bryce for experimental genre but electro rock? Their more techno rap or electro rap, not rock. No matter what the feel or mood of the song is, they make it a fast song usually, so that maybe it could be party music if you don’t pay attention to the lyrics. As Bryce said their new albums have not strayed from their original album, which I’m very impressed because a lot of artists want to try new things, but they like it, and are good at it so they keep it up. I think it’s amazing that they made a whole new album just on an ipad, which has not been done before, which just comers to show you how unique they are. Unlike Bryce, I was very unsurprised that the critics liked them, because of how great there songs are. I would recommend them to anyone as well as Bryce.

Guest Blogger: Jessa 3

Conner, I like your blog post. I agree that The Beatles were one of the most influential bands of their time. They had several great number one hit songs that make it difficult for anyone to not be a fan. One of the songs I really liked is “Strawberry Fields Forever” because it is a nonsense song that is just funny. It shows John Lennon’s nostalgia for his years in Liverpool. They had one of the largest fan bases ever in the history of music. The death of John Lennon was a tragedy, but I feel that it brings Beatles fans even closer together and it shows who the truly loyal fans are. The Beatles will be a legendary band until the end of time. They broke numerous records with their music and it came at a time where people needed something happy to rely on. The Beatles were the perfect band for that time and because of that they will live in history forever along with their music. Their style revolutionized the way we appreciate music. They have always been one of my favorite bands and I am confident that my opinion won’t change. This is why I agree with your post.

Guest Blogger: Jennie 3

I agree with Monique 100% on when she had said that she agreed with the critics because I am also a listener of Nicki Minaj and to say that her album has many different colors is a great description. Also saying that Nicki is very talented to me is an understatement because as we see her in this new rap game she has brought a lot more to the table in this short amount of time compared to many that have been in it for twice as long. My favorite song by Nicki Minaj would have to be “Moment for Life.” I have picked this song because I can relate to the emotion that NIcki is putting forth in the tone of her voice especially when she says, “I fly with the stars in the skies, I am no longer trying to survive, I believe that life is a prize, but to live doesn't mean you're alive.” At one point in my life I had finally come to the realization that even if you are living that doesn’t mean you are alive; we must all make the best of our lives and live them to the complete fullest. Lastly, just as Monique said Nicki Minaj’s album Pink Friday is well worth anyone’s money, and I recommend everyone who is into female rappers to go out and buy this amazing C.D.

Guest Blogger: Jacob 3

I agree with Pat that Eminem is one of the best rappers. I like the fact that he is a strong supporter of the first amendment and is not afraid to say what is on his mind. I also like the fact that he is not afraid to show his emotions about certain topics he feels strongly about. In my opinion Eminem’s best albums were the Slim Shady LP and the Marshall Mathers LP. All of his albums are pretty good too but I think those two albums are classics. I think that “Stan” is the best song he ever made. Eminem is also a crazy freestyler which also proves his skills that he is a good rapper. Eminem also uses a lot of sick wordplay and punch lines in his rhymes. I also agree with Pat that Eminem is up there with some of the great rappers of all time and that he was the best rappers of the generation. I also like all the songs you said and how he talks about growing up and struggles he had in Detroit. Another thing I like about Eminem is how he challenges what the government does like in the song “Mosh” where he takes shots at Bush for the wars he got as into.

Guest Blogger: Jacob 2

Atmosphere is an underground hip/hop group from Minneapolis. The group has included many different members but the main members are emcee Slug (Sean Daley) and producer Ant (Anthony Davis). Atmosphere has been one of the most successful independent hip/hop groups since there first album called Overcast! which was released in 1997. The group has been offered many major recorded deals but has chosen to stay on the independent label Ryhmsayers which is also based out of Minneapolis. Atmosphere built their name nationally by touring constantly to get there name out there and reach fans. Atmosphere in there early days once traveled from Minneapolis to Dallas to play for $250. Atmosphere’s songs are mostly based on day to day struggles such as girls, your job, and drugs/ alcohol. The early Atmosphere was often depressed about these things but there latest albums are a lot more optimistic. Atmosphere can be compared to artists like Brother Ali and Murs. Murs and Slug also made a series of albums together called Felt. Slug is really just a poet over Ants beats, for example the song “The Skinny” which sounds like a song about pimping is really a metaphor for his cigarette addiction. The song “Gods Bathroom Floor” paints a picture of what drug addiction is like. Slug also makes a lot of fictional story songs that relate to his life. In my opinion Slug is one of the best song writers to ever live in any generation of music. Overall I would agree with critics that say Atmosphere is one of the best underground hip/hop artists over the last ten years. I would say any Atmosphere albums are definitely worth the time and money. If you are sick of the same commercialized hip/hop that you hear on the radio then I would definitely pick up some Atmosphere albums.

Guest Blogger: Eric 2

R. Kelly is an R&B singer and has had many hit singles along with hit albums. His most famous song is “I Believe I Can Fly.” The song is about finding true love and the feelings that follow. This song is very inspirational to everyone in some way. This song shows how important true love is in someone’s life. He just released a new album called “Love Letter.” It is dedicated to the woman who stood beside him throughout his life. A lot of his music is about his life experiences and feelings of life. Kelly’s new album was influenced by old artists. His album has a lot of retro soul in it. Soul is perfect for this album because the albums for girls and girls love soul songs that make them feel love. Kelly is well known along with Usher. They did sing a few songs together back in the day but today they are very well known for their music that are made by themselves. One review I read from Nathan S about R Kelly’s new album “Love Letter” was all positive. He began saying it was his best album yet. I for one thing couldn’t agree more. His lyrics and music fit perfectly and make you want to keep listening. He then stated that in the song When a Woman Loves proved he had one of the best voices in the music business. R. Kelly is back and hopefully here to stay for awhile. If his new album is any indication of something to come I can’t wait to hear what’s next. If this album is a hit to the world he will for sure be at the top of the charts and very popular again. So for those people who don’t believe in him, id watch out.

Guest Blogger: Eric 3

I agree with katie about Brad Paisley. He is one of the best nashville country singers. He makes so many songs and albums and every single one of his albums are a huge hit to country music listeners. I listen to Brad Paisley and it is very true that all of his songs can somehow relate to your own life. His song “Tics” is one of his better country songs because it has that country sound to it. I would also say that his song “ Whisky lulliby” is another one of his greatest country songs because it told a very strong story that touched many people’s hearts. This song was very sad to listen to because of the story told through song. In my opinon Brad is easily one of the top 5 best country singers of all time. His music is played worldwide and heard by not only country music lovers but by all music lovers. The way he acts is exactly how a celebrity should act because not once has he done a bad thing that would bring his reputation down. We all will be seeing more and more of Brad for years to come and I just can’t wait to see whats next.

Guest Blogger: Garrett 3

Jessa Hohnstein, I would completely agree with you in saying that The Band Perry is a great band. My dad is a huge country fan, and when the band started recently, he was ecstatic! They are a very good happy-go-lucky modern twang group that really knows how to put music together to make it fun to listen to. I also agree that they would be a good comparison to other groups such as Lady Antebellum and Sugarland, because of how they have all made top billboard songs on popular country tunes. The Band Perry has such a unique style of country music though, in making it more of a modern rock band rather than a traditional country music band. They are really somewhat of a modern day country rock band. One last thing that I agree with is how their lyrics will strike something meaningful in your heart, even if you aren’t a country fan. I would recommend this band to anyone I believed to be a country-rock fan and/or a rock fan in general. This band has time and time again demonstrated that they are worthy of the thousands of dollars that people have used to pay for their music.

Guest Blogger: Chelsey 3

I agree with Katie’s post. She really explained into detail about what Brad Paisley is all about. He is a very popular country singer and has been on top numerous of times. A lot of people can relate to Brad’s music because he sings about everything in life. So I agree with Katie when she said “That is why Brad Paisley is so well liked. Keith Urban is also similar to Brad Paisley. He sings songs about dealing with family, relationships and broken hearts.” That just explains Brad because every one of his songs deals with those topics. I also agree with Katie when she said “Brad has some country in him, like his older song ‘Tics’ which is about going in the back woods and getting dirty, then coming back and checking the girl for ‘tics.’” This is a memorable song for listeners because it’s one of his more energetic and fun songs. Don’t doubt Brad. He might have emotional songs but he has a lot of country in him and that really shows in the song “Tics” and “Mud on the tires”. Katie has very strong opinions on everything and I agree with her whole post. Very great job on everything!

Guest Blogger: Caiti R3

I agree with Bory’s blog about Katy Perry. She is one of the newer pop artists, however she has already gained a lot of popularity and respect in the world of pop music. I think that what sets her apart from a lot of the new pop artists (Ke$ha, Lady Gaga, etc) is her unique voice and sense of style. Although some of her songs like “ET” or her first hit “I Kissed A Girl”, have more of an electronic sound that just makes you want to dance and sing along. She also has some slower and softer songs like “Thinking of You” or “Teenage Dream” that really showcase her natural voice and its distinctive sound. I think that one of the reasons she really sticks out on today’s pop charts, is because of her ability to create many different emotions with her lyrics and sound. For example, her song “California Girls” has sort of a quirky, fun feel to it. While another one of her hits “Firework” really gives you a feeling of hope and inspiration. It’s often difficult for artists to stick out these days, with all the talent that’s out there, nevertheless I think that when we look back, Katy Perry will be one of the few artists we remember.