American Idol: The. Save. & Online Voting

Hello blogger world!
This week, I will discuss the decision of the American Idol judges to save Casey this season and the importance/awesomeness of the online voting.

First of all, the top 11, once again, will be performing on tour this summer. Now, doesn't that alone make you wonder if it was set-up? Well, if that isn't enough, think about how there would be 5 girls and 5 guys if Casey did go home, so, obviously, the voting is rigged. BUT the fact is the voting is not technically rigged, but the producers do fix the lighting and increase sound to the audience's preference for the stars they think will bring in the most votes and money. Another point on how the save was obviously going to happen is how Ryan said "make sure you watch the whole show," so people would witness the ONLY save this season. Either way, I knew the judges would save Casey just because of their appreciation for his musical "talent," which I think is mostly raspy screaming most of the time. However, that tends to be a "style" nowadays, so whatever floats your boat....

Next and finally, I will mention my ideas on the online voting option this year. I think that's one of the best things Idol has done ever. It brings more votes in and attracts to the internet dorks who make up most of the population. It's also good for facebook since you only need a facebook account to vote, instead of an americanidol.com account. That seems strange, but works for both american idol and facebook, so it's obviously a good idea. Even though they don't need any more popularity, facebook and american idol have gained more attention with this online voting. I vote online now because it's honestly better than texting or calling. You don't get the "busy line" noise that come with calling or the fees that come with texting. You get to vote as much as you want and for free. Nice going, American Idol.

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

Glee

G'day blog world!
This week, I had an epiphany that I haven't discussed the popularity of the Fox TV show, Glee. Therefore, I will discuss it today. First off, Glee, despite what the majority of the adult population thinks, is an amazing TV show. There are a few adults that like Glee, but mostly, obviously, it's teens. "Teenagers" star in this high school glee club TV show (the "teen" actors are mostly in their 20s-30s), and they show the truth about your everyday public high school. Now, I don't have the experience they do, since I go to a Private high school, but I do have friends experiencing the same events the Glee kids share on TV. This is what really makes the show so popular, the connection to the audience.

Secondly, you have to admit, their voices aren't half bad. Rachel Berry has the voice of an angel, despite how annoying her character is, and it is just amplified with the incredible talent of all the other characters. I actually don't think Rachel should be considered the main star, but she does have the best voice. As a matter of fact, I think Will Schuester (the teacher) is the main character, as he keeps the Glee club going strong. Also, the "not-so-bright" blonde teenager, Brittany, was going to dance as a background dancer for Brittany Spears if she was not in Glee. That just adds to the fact that all the stars are amazing.

Finally, the fact that Glee has a different "theme" each week, given as an assignment by Will, creates high expectations of the TV viewers to guess the upcoming week's theme. So far, they've had great themes, showcasing the top hits in music today and in history. I personally think the one they've majorly missed out on and need to do is a "Rap" week. Personally, I hate Rap. The absolute only Rap singer I like is Eminem (some hip-hop is different), but watching these Glee kids go all "gangstah" would be hilarious and get huge ratings. That's just my opinion, but it has some promise.

In conclusion, Glee is an amazing TV show full of incredibly talented actors and actresses who connect strongly to the TV viewers. Each theme showcases the popular hits in music, making it even more popular (since the audience can sing along easily). Therefore, Glee is the next big thing on television when it comes to music, and I hope it continues to do well (since I'm such a huge fan :))

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

Elucidating Life

Hello fellow bloggers!
This week, I decided to publish my poem on music. I hope you enjoy it :) I wrote it for a poetry contest, with the prize of Starbucks coffee (awesome), and please let me know your thoughts :)

Elucidating Life
Pleasure when miserable
Amending lyrics and melodies
Elucidating life
Justification of time’s tick
Beat is from a heart
More than sanity, a reason to care
Dreams to the moon in a daze
Solitary when absent
Tender performance
Bliss
Lungs screaming
Sips of sunshine
In a sound
Pushing keys
Making chords
Meditation
Life’s rough
Listen to the music

Idol's Top 24

This week our Idol judges chose America's 10th "Top 24." I think, as it goes every year, this is the most talented group of singers. Of course, that goes without saying because "not up-to-par" singers leave us during Hollywood's crazy week. Now, next week there are 3 shows (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) so don't forget one because these singers need your votes!

My favorite singer is Lauren Alaina, from Georgia. She's been my favorite since her audition, followed by her even more amazing performance of I Don't Want to Miss A Thing. She's quite obviously Steven Tyler's favorite, as she has been since the beginning when he said "I think we found the one today" right after her audition. Without that being said, Steven is my favorite judge this season because he continues to make the show entertaining with the judges. Speaking of judges, have you heard randy say "pitchy?" yet? I must have missed it or something because I haven't heard it... o.m.g!

In conclusion, Idol's top 24 this season is better than ever! I can't wait to see my favorite, Lauren, perform this week, along with my favorite boy: James Durban. James was diagnosed with Aspergers, the same syndrome my little brother has, so he holds a personal connection with me, making him even more amazing. :) Stay tuned for my review on season 10's first live show.

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

P.S. This past President's day, OneRepublic came to Hawaii and, being the huge fan I am, I attended their concert. It was absolutely amazing! Ryan Tedder (lead singer) is the BEST singer I've heard live, and, despite his new cello breaking right before the concert, Brent Kutzle was amazing, too. In fact, the entire band, as a whole, looked so connected and was so amazingly talented that the night was one to remember. I can't wait till they come back, which they said will be A.S.A.P. :)

The Grammys

Hello Bloggers!

This week I'll discuss the CRAZINESS that comes with the most wonderful time of the year...the Grammys.

The Grammys create an insane show and give the artist receiving them a sense of gratitude more than they could get performing for any crowd. A Grammy means the artists' fans are so strong and loving that they vote THEM to be the best. It's more than an artists' dream, it gives them a reason to live.

The Grammys 2011, personally, were not as climatic as 2010 because P!nk's performance was missing. Her "Glitter in The Air" performance was a tear-jerker, and this year missed that special moment. However, one thing that made this year's Grammy show insane was how many Grammys Lady Antebellum won! 5 Grammys is... just a bit.. over the top. That was ridiculous. They do have talent and deserve maybe 3 Grammys for the categories they were nominated for, but 5 was a bit excessive. Lady Antebellum, Lady Gaga, Jeff Beck, David Frost, John Legend EACH won (at least) 3 Grammys, and that made a good show.

Here's a few facts on the Grammys that may have been raising a few questions:

1. The Grammys were originally called the Gramophone Awards (as the statuette suggests) and it's since been shortened to Grammy.

2. Record of the Year is not to be confused with Song of the Year or Album of the Year:
* Record of the Year is awarded for a single or for one track from an album. This award goes to the performing artist, the producer, recording engineer, and/or mixer for that song. In this sense, "record" means a recording of one song, not the composition or an album of songs. Often, the nominees and winners of this song represent the most successful songs of the year.
* Song of the Year is also awarded for a single or individual track, but the recipient of this award is the songwriter who actually created the song in the first place. Thus, "song" in this context means the song as written, not its recording.

3. Esperanza Spalding is the first jazz winner of the best new artist award as of 2011.

4. Rehearsals, soundcheck and camera blocking with the performers takes four days.

5. The Grammy’s were the first high-profile award show since 2001 to be broadcast in HD/5.1 and, as “Music Biggest Night,” has always set the benchmark by which all other shows are judged.

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

Who is the Next American Idol?

Good day everyone!
Back to the usual weekly updates, this post will review American Idol for this past week.
So... 3 questions.

1) How are the new judges working out?
I personally think the new judges are better than the old ones. Steven Tyler makes the show MUCH more interesting with his random riffs and J-Lo is the nicest, without being too nice. She obviously knows who is good and who should... go, which is just what the show needs to not go down from the loss of Simon Cowell. That brings me to my next point on Randy. Randy seems to be acting like the new Simon. He's got an attitude this season, and speaks the truth. Again, this is what the show needs to stay on top, but it was a big, nice surprise.

2) What do you think of the new contestants?
Again, the contestants this season are better than ever. Each year there's an amazing, huge increase in talent and that makes the show keep ratings increasing. The new age drop, to 15, was a mistake, to me. Every 15-year-old so far has been shown "mentally and emotionally not ready." I admit, a few of them have the voice of an angel and TRUE talent, but the fact that they're 15 on a national show such as American Idol is a bit insane. Any 15-year-old anywhere is not ready for that kind of stress and commitment, so I think the age should be moved up again next season.

3) Do you think the show's ratings will continue to go up with these changes?
Yes I do. As I've mentioned before, there are a few things already shown to get more viewers such as the qualifying age drop and new judges, but, since they are not bad changes (in fact, they make the show even more compelling and intense) this year will, once again, have higher ratings than the last. America, shown throughout history, loves change. We truly believe that if you always do what you always do, you'll only ever have what you already have. So, with that being said, America is bound to pay attention to these changes, even if they don't usually watch the show. This makes the ratings increase for this season, and, since the changes are positive, they will continue to rise even after the shock is over.

Be sure to stay tuned for next week's review and eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

Stick with the Classics

Hello fellow bloggers! HAPPY NEW YEAR!

To start off 2011, my blog post this week focuses on music from the past, remembering the music memories. What better to choose, from the long list of music genres, than classical?

Classical music, in my opinion, is the most educational of all music genres. Listening to the combination of instruments, fully available to hear, not only helps you with education of the sounds of each instrument, but timing and dynamics of each instrument. Classical music should be a part of everyone's lives, whether it's attending classical concerts or listening to Bach and Mozart on your iPod.

When was the last time you listened the classical music? To most people, it's a monthly activity, but classical, above all other genres, should be listened to for, at least, a coupple minutes once every coupple days. You'll find it changes the way you do daily activities, listen to other music (even pop and rock) and how you hear instruments in a concert. Classical music is #1 in your music library! :D

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

Christmas is in the air!

Hello everyone!

Today is the last sunday before Christmas, so I would like to start this blog post with "MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL, AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT!" Obviously, to suit the situation, I will write about the importance of Christmas music.

Caroling has been a Christmas tradition for centuries. It's an amazing feeling to share Christmas joy with others through song and music. I have been learning Christmas music on the piano, and that has brought the Christmas spirit to everyone's ears. Christmas music is used for celebration and the feeling of togetherness. It's the ultimate Christmas gift to give, and to share with others.

Here are a few facts on Christmas:
1) The Nordic people had the original yule-tide traditional celebration, done in winter, because it was the time when all the animals needed to be slaughtered (because it was cold and there was no food for the animals to eat), so there was more meat, and, therefore, more cause for celebration. It wasn't until the Christians came in that it was called "Christ-mas"
2) Christ's birthday was chosen from the Nordic people's day for the sun-god's birth. (Jesus= son of God). The Nordics wanted to be part of secular celebrations. The Christians were trying to put Christ into the winter-solstice holiday. Christ was probably born in the Spring time.
3) The Christmas tree was also a Nordic original tradition, beginning with an Evergreen tree because it would stay green all year, through the cold winter. The Christians took that idea and put apples on the tree to symbolize the garden of Eden, which began Christmas ornaments.
4) The first description of Santa Clause came from the poem "The Night before Christmas."
5) Rudolf the Red-nose reindeer was created by Macy's for advertising during the holidays.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!
Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

Music is Poetry

For English class, we have an assignment to write an essay on what music we feel is poetry. I am having EXTREME difficulty with this assignment, as I feel all music is poetry, and there is a reason for that.

When you think of poetry, what comes to mind? A couple of stanzas of words that don't make sense to you? Well, poetry is not limited to what you discuss in English class or read in books assigned for summer reading at school. Poetry is a form of art that humans use to express themselves. Poetry is grouping words that you love. Words that make you smile or make you feel relaxed because you've written down your feelings of anger, hatred, or despair. All of these emotions are expressed in poetry, and in music. Therefore, music is poetry.

Music and poetry share a bond that artists use to it's maximum potential. Writing a song requires artistic imagination and ability that few people have true posession of. However, any type of poetry is amazing to it's author. Poetry is created to act as a self-comforting exercise to let loose and share your thoughts. After all, keeping something bottled up isn't good for anyone, now is it?

Poetry is more than a group of words that don't make sense. Music is more than notes on a page. Both of these expressions of art are created to be enjoyed by whoever wishes them to be so. All music is love, expression... and life. All music is poetry.

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

International Music (Market) Place

"Hey soul sister. Ain't that Mr. Mister on the radio, stereo, the way you move ain't fair, you know.Hey soul sister, I don't want to miss a single thing you do tonight." The lyrics to "Hey Soul Sister" were sung by America, Kazakhstan, and Australia this week in my car. Having exchange students is an opportunity with benefits you couldn't receive in any other way. For example, the true spread of music in all cultures.

Korean music is played in Mexico, Spanish music is played in the UK, and English music is played in Japan. That is a fact. Music spread internationally is an incredible way to show the spread of information and cultures. Music is not only entertainment, not only joy, not only a life, but it is diplomacy: the source of communication for/of lives.

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

Sublime & The Dirty Heads (REVIEW)

November 19, 2010, Sublime with Rome and the Dirty Heads put together an unforgettable, incredible concert. These are the bands that form the improvement of rock music for America! Together, the concert was full of nothing but screaming and love for music. I personally will add that I've made photos from the concert my computer and phone wallpaper because of it's amazing impact.

Both bands were amazing live. Of course being in Hawaii helps a band's attitude automatically improve :D, but, despite that fact, the audience was screaming for love, making Sublime with Rome AND The Dirty Heads fall into the rock spirit. Everyone at Kaka'ako Beach Park Ampitheatre had an amazing night.

What did you do your sixteenth birthday? A 5-hour concert isn't so bad, is it? My friend's birthday was the cause of attending this concert, and boy is she lucky. It was outstanding in every way. The entire weekend following the concert included me listening to The Dirty Heads and Sublime with Rome albums...non-stop. Now, that's the life.

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving fellow music lovers and bloggers!

I hope you all have a GREAT Thanksgiving and eat lots of turkey :)

I'll have a post this week Sunday on the Sublime & The Dirty Heads concert (Review) so check it out then! :)
Have a good day!

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

Music in the Movies

It's about time I bring up the importance of music in movies, don't you agree? Sounds change the way a movie is viewed, and the way the audience is impacted by it. Whether it's sound effects or a theme song, music affects a movie's capabilities and success.

Sound effects bring meaning to an action. That is music's way of exercise. Sound effects bring impact to a movement, changing the way one will look at it. For example, if a loud "BANG!" sound is heard when someone shoots a gun, the audience will fly back in their seats. However, not all sound effects have to be loud and obnoxious. A slight squeak when someone is walking, coming from their shoes, gives the audience an idea of what shoes the star in the movie is wearing. If a head-shot was all visually given to an audience, the sound effects from shoes will give them a bigger picture of the scene.

Music also affects a movie's capabilities and success in a theme song. We all recognize Harry Potter's theme "tune" when we hear it, making it a trademark. Another example is for a TV series. Every TV show today has a theme song that is played at the beginning of an episode. This little song presents/ explains the show in a minute. Without a theme song, most TV shows would have little recognizable material. A theme song makes, or breaks, a video.

Now, when you add sound effects to a movie with a theme song, you get a genius invention ready for any audience to enjoy. When you go out to make your own movie, remember the importance of a little squeak from a shoe or a minute-long song in the beginning. Once you've included these aspects, your movie is on it's way to the big screen.

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

P.S. This Friday I am going to Sublime & The Dirty Heads concert for my best friend, Kelsey's, birthday...stay tuned for that review!!! :D

Crash Kings: Brothers Together with Music

When brothers play music together, they are bound to make unique magic made to be expressed. Alternative/Rock's history includes countless amazing bands, and, today, I am adding Crash Kings to the top. Antonio (Tony) Beliveau and Michael (Mike) Beliveau; Tony on keyboards and vocals, Mike on bass make up Crash Kings. The Beliveau brothers have a past of music. Their dad played piano, and grandma played organ, and Tony and Mike have played in five bands together prior to Crash Kings. These guys make magical music together. Then again, that’s what happens when you’ve been doing something together for a long time, with passion.

Jason Morris, the perfect drummer, makes Crash Kings come together. This is Jason’s third band experience with siblings, so he brings that brothers feeling to it. "Brothers have a much closer relationship and are much quicker to fight than strangers or friends who get into a room together to make music. At the same time things move faster because brothers tend to think similarly and ideas get out more quickly."- Jason

With writing songs, it's a strange how nature is involved in Crash Kings. Tony says, “I visualize a place where I feel complete peace – usually a place of natural beauty, immersed in nature. Songs like “Mountain Man” and “Come Away” came out of me being out in nature. Most of the songs start with a chorus. When I find a strong chorus, I start building the song, writing verses and eventually a ‘middle eight’ comes. Then Mike, Jason and I work out the arrangement. It’s really important for us to make every verse, every bridge, every part of every song as important as its chorus."

This three-man-band brings the level of "family" bands to a whole new level. Very aggressive and hard-hitting, yet meaningful and highly tuneful, Crash Kings have a loving, strong-supporting audience. Tony's vocals are absolutely amazing and soar above the average band's capabilities. Crash Kings are full of real passion, and you will know they've got talent when you hear their magic.

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

Sources Cited:
http://crashkingsmusic.com/home/blog

Sweet Serendipity

Well, first off, Happy Halloween, everybody! Now, back to business....

"Something's watching over me like sweet serendipity." Lee DeWyze has finally come out with SOMETHING to remind us of our love for him. It's been a while since we've heard from Mr. DeWyze and it's about time he's released some music from his new album to be released on November 16, 2010. Sweet Serendipity, his first single since his big song from winning American Idol. It is currently #56 on iTunes' top 200 which is nothing to sneeze at, but we can make it higher than that!

Sweet Serendipity, though more of a Kris Allen song, suits Lee. I would prefer him to do something harder, and raspier, to show the strength in his voice, but this isn't a bad start for the star. We all know he's had several albums released already, but American Idol has changed his voice tremendously, as it should, being a boot-camp for singers/musicians.

For now, our job, as music lovers, is to wait in anticipation for the release of Lee's album. Then, after the release, we must fulfill our duties and not only buy an album for ourselves, but spread the word and help get Lee back to the top. Crystal Bowersox is, no doubt, going to go far. However, Lee needs our help now more than ever. Listen to that single of his, and jump at the chance to buy his album. Agreed? Agreed. Happy Halloween, music world!

Eat, breathe, and live music...
musicbytori

I'm the Boss D.J. (Sublime)

Back to the classics. Change in music in inevitable as curiosity increases as a result of technology advancements. However, the classics will always win. Rock is the best genre for classics that are timeless; Sublime fits perfectly into that category.

Sublime was formed in 1988, and, though thats not SO long ago, it's far enough to be considered timeless as far as music hits can go. Sublime and the Dirty Heads will be performing in Hawaii on November 19th, and without a doubt, I am attending! Stay tuned to see my review for the concert, of course, but for now- enjoy my praises to the CLASSIC rock band, Sublime.

"What I Got", released in 1996, remains the band's only number 1 hit (on billboard alternative songs chart), but the public has got it wrong! Sublime has amazing talent, and despite the break up after their original lead vocalist, Bradley Nowell, died of a heroin overdose, they haven't failed sharing that talent!

Not only has Sublime produced numerous songs made to keep the classic feel of music alive, but they have kept their genuine feel since their first album. Sublime gives you the care-free feeling to let yourself remember the classics. Sublime's impact stays strong to this day. Not only that, but it holds the title of reviving an interest in ska (reggae-like genre) and bringing punk rock to mainstream. With over 17 million units sold worldwide, Sublime is one of the most successful ska-punk acts of all time.

"Life is too short so love the one you got cause you might get run over or you might get shot."-Sublime

Defy gravity, make a memory, and live life with music...
musicbytori

Guess Who's Back!

Guess who's back! Mr. David Archuleta is who. Absolutely every teenager has been counting down the days to his new album released on October 5, 2010 nearly 2 years after his debut album. "The Other Side of Down" is number 13 out of Billboard's top 100 albums, showing just how much anticipation has been involved with the release of the typical teenage girl's dream boy.

Of course he's had more recording time and more involvement in the writing of his songs this time around, so the expectations are higher. However, the true, genuine talent doesn't let you down! Along with the anticipation of the release, there were many on-edge questions about the feel David would have with this album. Would it be religious or full of those intimate teen sensations he expressed so well in the album bringing him fame? Well, now the questions have been answered, happily answered to the ladies. :) David is one of those FEW artists whose voices are limited with technology. His soul mix with pop music gives you goosebumps with a single note at the right time.

When asked how he would describe his new album in one word, his response was "meaningful." This album is a lot more personal to David especially since he was able to be more involved in the writing. David was inspired by day-to-day actions such as thoughts that came up while brushing his teeth in the mornings, or thoughts he's been having and dying to let out."

A truly talented individual is what David is; the ultimate teen "American Idol." Being 19, he's got his life ahead of him full of writing, performing, and experiencing music. This album is nothing short of the expected, and brings more anticipation for what's next on his fan-filled agenda.

"It's amazing to see how you can say so much with songs." -David Archuleta

Defy gravity, make a memory, and live life with music...
musicbytori

John Lennon: Still Alive

The Beatles are a world-wide sensation brought together by their similar love and passion: music. John Lennon, lead singer, is not far from that. In fact, he is not only one of the faces, but the leader of The Beatles. Yesterday, October 9, would be his 70th birthday. This generation needs a "pick-me-up" when it comes to music. Of course, as technology increases, music is bound to rely on the "tricks" and "talent-boosts" that computers and recording studios can do, but there is no replacement for true talent. Either you have it, or you don't.

John Lennon had it. Lennon knew not only how to sing to his audience, but how to listen to them. He was talented musically with his amazing gift. Lennon played a number of instruments including the flute. His first instrument as a child was the banjo. His mother taught him how to play, then bought him an acoustic guitar where he shines. From his earliest days with the Beatles, Lennon's singing voice was recognized as distinctive, versatile, and variable.

Music historians Schinder and Schwartz say that the Beatles' influence cannot be overstated: having "revolutionized the sound, style, and attitude of popular music and opened rock and roll's doors to a tidal wave of British rock acts", the group then "spent the rest of the 1960s expanding rock's stylistic frontiers."

For young people in 1972, it was thrilling to see Lennon's courage in standing up to Nixon. That willingness to take risks with his career, and his life, is one reason why people still admire him today. What remains today, and what will remain in our hearts, minds, and music history forever, is the effort that John Lennon put in to share himself through his songs. He held up a mirror to be seen by the public, showing his true self: inwardly and outwardly.
"His songs spoke to, for, and about, the human condition." - music historians Urish and Bielen.

Let's spend today and these next few days remembering John Lennon and admiring his legacy. Agreed? John Lennon would have been proud to see his music continue to brighten and change lives today.

Defy gravity, make a memory, and live life with music...
musicbytori

Daughtry Live: Hawaii 2010

Who's the true winner of American Idol? I'll give you a hint, it's not the girl with the title for season 4, though Carry Underwood did pretty well. The true winner was Chris Daughtry. His first performance in Hawaii was an AMAZING experience to attend. Playing at Ka'ako Amphitheater, Daughtry blasted their talents and sung their hearts out for a performance of a lifetime.

Daughtry is one of the few bands out there on tour that aren't drunk or high when performing. It was a nice break from the crazy atmosphere! Not to mention the fact that I had enough room to see my feet, it was an amazing, unforgettable experience to let go with Daughtry. The whole band was interactive with the audience, having us sing repeating lines and notes led by Chris.

This concert was also a treat with actually good opening bands! Kings of Spade and Electric Monkey happily and proudly opened their hearts to the audience. Kings of Spade lead singer's voice was incredible. Not to mention her amazing, incredibly tight pants! The fact that Kings of Spade perform almost every night every week is simply mind-boggling, but it sure paid off! Just opening for Daughtry is an insane experience!

Daughtry has an amazing talent, explaining why he made it so far after Idol. Chris was amazing live, and had the ocean of an audience "bouncing in unison", as he suggested. :D Daughtry Live was INCREDIBLE and I won't soon forget the feeling of letting go and opening myself into the feelings of music :)

Defy gravity, make a memory, and live life with music...
musicbytori

What Did You Say?

Hello out there! How many times do you find yourself blasting the music, dancing in front of the mirror, and singing along at the top of your voice? A lot? I think so. Well, how often are you singing the right words? Not very often. I even create my own lyrics to songs without knowing it! I know that's happened to you, so don't try to hide it. Even today, with google at hand to search lyrics for songs, there are plenty songs where you can create over 10 different combinations of words that sound the same as the artist if you sing them with the same intonation.

I still remember one experience I had 3 or so years ago when expressing myself through Jonas Brother music. Whenever the song S.O.S.' chorus came on, I would sing some crazy version of the lyrics. Whether it was "pride of a lion" instead of "bottom line", or "my plan" instead of "I bled," I had my own words and I stuck to them.

Of course, there's that awkward feeling when you're singing along with your best friend and he/she sings the wrong note loud and proud, but the same principles apply with wrong words. When you're driving down the freeway, using your steering wheel as your drum, who's going to care if you sing the wrong words? Umm, everyone except for you, but that's what makes music connect with everyone. Music is how you express yourself, so why does it matter if you have your own way of doing it?

Your assignment for tonight is to listen to a new song from a new artist. Play it once and get the gist of it, then play it again and sing whatever lyrics you hear. After all, when it comes to music, if YOU think it's right...it's right.

Defy gravity, make a memory, and live life with music...
musicbytori