Clockwise: Whitney Houston, Rozalla, MK featuring Alana, and Ultra Naté.
As my inspiration for the post this morning, I took a look at the dance charts for January of 1994, twenty years ago. I will kick off with the song that was #1 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play almost exactly 20 years ago, on January 27th, 1994. That song from off the soundtrack to 'The Bodyguard', and featured the sterling vocals of the late, great Whitney Houston. This is "Queen of the Night", written by some of the greatest names of music at the time. The songwriting credits were listed as Whitney Houston, Antonio "L.A." Reid, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, Daryl Simmons, and Michael Jackson! Wow! Here is Whitney Houston singing "Queen of the Night".
The second song I'd like to share with you is "I Love Music", a song that seems perfect for this blog, doesn't it? The song was written in 1975 by Kenny Gamble & Leon Huff, the men behind the Philadelphia Sound so prevalent in the 1970s. Nineteen years later, the song was recorded by Rozalla, a young woman born in Zambia, and later moved to London to be closer to the music scene. Her version of the song was included on the soundtrack to 'Carlito's Way', a film directed by Brian DePalma, and starring Al Pacino and Sean Penn. The song was a good one for the singer, showing off the richness and fullness of her tone. The public must have agreed with that, for the song was #1 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart for the week ending January 22nd. This is Rozalla singing "I Love Music".
For some, Ultra Naté was considered one of the most flamboyant and talented of the many 1990s House Divas, never one to come up short with a performance in the recording studio. Bold and brash, she was able to reach for new heights with her vocals, while never sacrificing the heart of the song. This could be because she was also a songwriter, and understood the songs so well. On the weekend ending January 8th, the song at the top of the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play was "Show Me", a fun and catchy song. I hope you enjoy Ultra Naté singing "Show Me" as much as I do!
The final song for this Friday morning is one by Marc Kinchen and featuring Alana Simon. While this might not sound familiar to you, if you were in the clubs in the 1990s, you would be more familiar with their recording names, MK (featuring Alana). MK was a big DJ and producer at the time, making hits for both himself and others for the clubs. The pair had a couple of hits together, including "Love Changes", the song on top of the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart the week of January 15th. Electric and powerful, it is no wonder the song had people rushing out to the dance floor. This is MK featuring Alana with "Love Changes".
Left to right: Blake Shelton, Christina Aguilera, Carson Daly, Cee Lo Green and Adam Levine.
Last week, it was revealed that Jacquie Lee, Will Champlin, and Tessanne Chin would be competing tonight for the win, and coaches Christina Aguilera and Adam Levine could not be happier. On a sad note, this will be the first season Blake Shelton will not have a finalist competing for the win. It also marks the first time someone received the 'Judge's Save' and made it to the finals. In fact, Will was saved twice, once by Christina when eliminated by Adam, and then re-saved by Adam when eliminated by Christina! In the remaining contestants, we have two female power singers, and one guy who can really be both powerful and a little quirky.
Left to right: Jacquie Lee, Will Champlin, and Tessanne Chin.
Tonight, each finalist will sing three songs, two solos, and one with their coach. One of the solos is the song that made the chairs turn in the blind audition, as well as a brand new song. In fact, if the leaks are right, Jacquie will be singing a song co-written by her coach, and sung by her for the soundtrack of 'The Hunger Games - Catching Fire'. The show begins with a montage, showing the Top 3 on their journey, from blind auditions to Finals. And they jump right in with songs, as coaches Blake Shelton, Cee-Lo Green, Adam Levine and Christina Aguilera sing "Pour Some Sugar On Me" with the help of the band Def Leppard, who had a #1 hit with the song 25 years ago.
Well, that certainly lit the fire for the night. After a commercial break, it is time for Tessanne Chin to sing the song "Try" by Pink, and all three chairs turned around, and all four judges fought to get her on their team. Before the performance, Adam remarks how he knew when he heard her she would be here in the finals, competing for the win. She is in great voice, showing both power and control. She moves with such ease and grace on the stage, showing real charisma. Adam is so proud, and tells her that he has learned so much from being her coach. Cee-Lo tells her he is a fan, and that everyone watching is as well. There is a question session, and it can't pass quickly enough. And it is time for another look back as Will Champlin sings "Not Over You" by Gavin DeGraw.
Will does seem to really thrive with this song, and he shows such great range with it. He was excellent in the audition, causing three chairs to turn. He has such a great quality in his vocals, which build so nicely as the song goes on. Adam talks about how inspiring it has been to work with Will, and how much respect he has for him. Through it all, his work ethic has kept him strong. Christina also appreciates how, like him, she can get in her own head too much, and he has managed to stay strong and good despite how tough it can be. After another break, it is time for Jacquie Lee to sing the song that introduced her to the audience, "Back To Black". The Amy Winehouse was a perfect fit for her, and made two chairs turn, including Coach Christina. She does a nice job with the song, but I must admit I am not a big fan of her voice, which as times has a harsh and shrill edge. And it does with this song, too. Christina is thrilled to be her coach, and loves to be able to support this 16-year-old. She makes Christina happy to be a part of her journey. After another break, it is time for the artists to duet with their Coach. First up, we have Tessanne and Adam to sing "Let It Be", the iconic song by The Beatles.
First up I have to say, Tessanne's dress is stunning. Looking at her actually distracted me from looking at Adam, which isn't and easy thing to do. It is an odd duet, for Tessanne's voices is so much fuller and richer than Adam's, but somehow, she makes it work. Again, she shows an ability to show a softness in her vocals, a vulnerability. When they break it down for a Reggae section, it is a great moment. After a break, we learn that Jacquie will be joined by Christina to sing "We Remain", co-written by Christina for the soundtrack of ''The Hunger Games - Catching Fire'. The song is not an easy sing, as it is as rangy as one would expect from a Christina song. Christina was quite kind, and took the very high end, allowing the full body of Jacquie's voice to take center stage. And they looked lovely in their red dresses. After a break, it is time for the final duet of the night, as Will teams up with Adam to sing Elton John's "Tiny Dancer".
Who knew the song would be great for Adam's voice? Adam keeps his vocals simple, and allows Will to take wing with his vocals. He looks so happy singing up there, smiling and moving to the beat he hears in the music. This is really much nicer than I thought it would be, for I find Will's voice to be very different than Adam's, but in both his duets tonight, Adam had made them work. After another break, and an odd moment with Blake and cakes, Carson brings the Top 3 back on stage, and they sing "I'll Be There", a huge hit for the Jackson 5 forty-two years ago. It is a sweet moment, but it really shows me that, no matter how the results play out, Tessanne has the voice that stands out to me. But the tenderness of the connection between Jacquie, Will, and Tessanne is unmistakable. There is another break, and it is time to begin the final song for each artist. The first up is Tessanne, who takes on another powerhouse when she sings "I Have Nothing" by Whitney Houston.
It is not easy to take on an icon like Houston, but if there is someone up to the task, it is Tessanne. Sorry, I wrote nothing while she was singing, for that took my breath way. There was brilliance and power, and such a richness, I am without words. Adam is also speechless, so blown away by her ability to take on every task, and take them to places unexpected. For him, she is the winner of 'The Voice'. I fear I have a tough time arguing with him on that one. Another break, and it is time to for Will Champlin to sing "(Everything I Do) I Do It For You" by Bryan Adams. Adam works closely with him in rehearsals, and I think it paid off. His emotional connection to the song is so strong and true, it is like he is bleeding the song. And as he is wont to do, Will takes the song down roads and alleys to make it truly his own. At the end of the song, he kisses his wife and his daughter, a truly wonderful moment. He is a wonderful performer, as he has proven time and time again. Adam is so proud of him, and thinks he can declare a victory, no matter the outcome, for making it to the end despite the crap he has been through on the show. Blake always enjoys his performances, and thought it was great he kept this one simple, with no extra glitter. And now it is time for the last competitive performance of the season, as Jacquie Lee sings "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" from 'Dreamgirls'. The song was originally sung by Jennifer Holliday in the Broadway production of 'Dreamgirls', which earned her the Tony Award. Later, Jennifer Hudson picked up the Academy Award for her performance in the film version. This is the live version from the 1982 Tony Awards, featuring the incredible Jennifer Holliday.
This is another huge song, one dripping with emotional hurt and and heart-wrenching pain. It is big and powerful, and comes from down deep. Most of the way through the song, I just feel this was a bad song choice. I don't feel the emotional connection to the lyric, and I am saddened by that. I know I might very well be in the minority here, but that was lacking. The song comes from the soul too much to be as karaoke as that. Christina is so proud, and feared that she is coming for her career. Blake is amazed at the journey she has made on the show, and how perfect the coach/artist pairing was for her.
For me, there is only one conclusion, and that is Tessanne Chin took this season of 'The Voice'. She has consistently shown me the range and strength of a world-class vocalist, week after week. Her connection to the material has been so right on, and I can't think of a bad turn she has made this season. She will get my votes. To vote for your favorite, you can call, purchase the song on iTunes, and go to 'The Voice' website. To call, each phone number has 10 votes. For Tessanne Chin, call 1-855-864-2301; for Will Champin call 1-855-864-2302; and for Jacquie Lee call 1-855-864-2303. To vote on iTunes, just purchase the song offered - but keep in mind, only one purchase per account will count as a vote. To vote online, just go to 'The Voice' Online, and I think you have 10 votes per email address. Voting closes at 11AM Eastern Standard Time Tuesday morning, and the results of that vote will be made public on Tuesday night, 9-11PM, on your local NBC station. The guest list for that show is looking big, with Lady Gaga and R. Kelly, Celine Dion and Ne-Yo, OneRepublic, and Paramore scheduled to appear.
Songster Aiden James has released a new music video, and boy it is a good one! Aiden is singing his cover of the Whitney Houston dance hit, "I Wanna Dance With Somebody". Of course, Levi does give it a sound and feel like the song was written for the songster himself. The song starts off with a lovely and soothing sound, a perfect cradle for Aiden's voice. The song is sort of Acoustic Electronic, the music supplying more of an aural landscape for Aiden's voice. This allows the honey-voiced singer to take us on that musical journey. I hope you enjoy Aiden James in his latest music video, "I Wanna Dance With Somebody".
You can purchase the single "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" from iTunes, BandCamp, and Amazon. To learn more about Aiden James, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook.
Tonight, the first lives shows will be hitting the airwaves, featuring the music of Sam Sparro, Muse, Whitney Houston, Ed Sheran, Florence & the Machine, and Nina Simone. This is the first chance for Americans to give voice to their thoughts on who they want to hear singing. This evening, Team Usher and Team Adam will each ask four people to sing, with the Top 2 of the team making it through via votes, and the coach picking one of the remaining two to move on to the next round. By Wednesday night, the show will go from 16 acts to 12, all looking to be named 'The Voice'. Each member of the team will take their turn at the microphone, looking to earn a place in the next level of the Live Playoffs. Will they be able to set themselves apart from the other singers, and get American to vote for them? And speaking of votes, once again, not only can you vote via phone and your computer, you can also cast a vote with the purchase of the singles on iTunes.
Left to right: Adam Levine, Usher, Blake Shelton and Shakira.
Tonight, along with the solo efforts, we will also be getting a group performance from each team, and we lead off with Team Usher taking on a favorite of mine. Josiah Hawley, Michelle Chamuel, VEDO, and Cáthia will be singing Sam Sparro's brilliant "Black And Gold". But before we hear them, we also see Usher taking his team to an unusual spot, a Kickboxing Gym. He wants to help them build up their endurance, wanting them to always give their best. But soon it is time for them to work as a team as they sing "Black And Gold".
The first solo performer of the night goes to Amber Carrington, the young Country singer with the bold voice. She will be singing Rihanna's "Stay", and she puts a twang in this Pop song. Adam loves her voice, and gives just a few tips during the rehearsal. While she hasn't been a favorite of mine thus far, she is doing a wonderful job on this song, giving her strongest vocals I have heard from her so far. There is a fullness in her voice that is so wonderful to hear, and still manages to get ethereal with her top end. Blake, Usher and Shakira all loved it, and gave her high praise. After the break, handsome Josiah Hawley will be performing. We discover he will be singing "Starlight" by Muse, for Usher feels that is the type of music he is destined to play. While rehearsing, Usher reminds him the song will be a exercise in breath-control. But it is now time to hear "Starlight".
He starts nicely, and I have to say, he has continually surprised me with his ability to up his game round after round. His voice is strong and supported, and even gives moments of haunted. No, he isn't Matthew Bellamy, but very few can be. He manages to both do the song justice, as well as make it his own, with a few different twists on it. Blake loved it, and thought the world just lost a male model. Of course, he will fill in for him there... Shakira loved it, and felt it was a strong, sincere performance. Adam is impressed by how far he has come since his audition. Usher is as proud as he could be. Next up, Adam will be sending Sarah Simmons to the stage, singing "Angel" by Sarah McLachlan. It seems like a softball, a song that is just up her alley. She struggled a bit in rehearsal, getting too emotional as she is dedicating it to friend who had passed away last year. On stage, she had a good performance, although there were some odd moments in there. There are times there is a rough edge to a note here and there, and at times just missing notes, sliding from on to flat, or sharp. I was really thinking she would nail this. Blake, Usher and Shakira all loved it, feeling the emotional weight she brought to the table. Adam just loved it, and has nothing but respect for her. After a break, it is time for Usher to send out his next artist. That is Cáthia, who will be tackling a Whitney Houston classic. Usher thinks she can handle "I Have Nothing" from 'The Bodyguard' soundtrack. In rehearsal, Usher is working on musicality with her, trying to get her to feel the heartbeat of the song, and go with it. Here is the late Ms. Houston singing "I Have Nothing".
Cáthia looks lovely as she comes out on stage, and begins with some solid vocals. In the chorus, she drifts off key a bit, taking some notes flat instead of resting on their sweet spot. She continued to try her best, giving it all her heart. Shakira is the first to talk to her, and while she loves Cáthia, she is unsure that was the right song for her, as Whitney's songs are hallowed ground. Blake loved it, thought she did well. Usher thought his charge did well, but did not achieve all his goals for her performance tonight. He still believes in her, and thinks she can still go all the way, even after this weak performance. After a break, we hear we will be getting a true treat, as Adam and Usher will be joining forces in a very special performance. In fact, they take on Stevie Wonder's Superstition". I am shocked, their voices actually work together. Of course, neither has a big or bold voice, and both show a great deal of style. Adam is happy to step back and play his guitar, and they deliver a sexy segment of the show. When we come back, it is time for Caroline Glaser to join coach Adam in the rehearsal hall. She will be singing "The A Team" by Ed Sheran. Adam chose it for it was a bit darker than she had sung thus far, and it might work for her. But first, this is Ed Sheran singing "The A Team".
She has that quirky, indie-girl sound. She was good, and solid as things go, but she did kinda garble the lyrics, and swallow some of the notes. Blake and Usher loved her performance, and think America will vote for her. Adam is very proud, and felt she has a different sound and style that he loves. After the break, it is VEDO who will be competing for votes after he sings "Against All Odds" by Phil Collins. In the rehearsal, he struggles with a few of the high notes, and Usher gives him tip for proper vocal support. I love that he is taking the time to do that. During the actual performance, VEDO sounds pretty darned good. He helps the song sound current, not trapped in the 1980s. It was not the best of the night, but it was good. Shakira is surprisingly standoffish, noncommittal with her thoughts. However, Adam loved him, and thought he did well. Usher was very pleased and proud of how well he did. After Christina Milian chats with Team Usher, we learn that the ladies of Team Adam will be singing "Shake It Out" by Florence and the Machine. Team Adam is, of course, Amber Carrington, Caroline Glaser, Judith Hill, and Sarah Simmons.
The ladies sound great, but I think it is Amber and Judith who stand out from the crowd. I am actually still surprised how much Sarah Simmons is disappearing vocally tonight. I didn't see that coming. After another commercial, the final contestant from Team Usher readies herself to perform. Michelle Chamuel shows up to rehearsal ready to talk on "True Colors" by Cyndi Lauper. He thinks it will be a great opportunity for her to become vulnerable with the audience. She starts if off simply, and her voice is just gorgeous. She is certainly making it her own, very different from any version I've heard before. This is easily my favorite performance of the night. Shakira loved it, and felt she was so authentic, so honest. Adam loved it, too, and thought it was her break-out moment. Blake also loved it, and told his acts to pay attention. Usher is thrilled, and thought she was incredible. After a break, it is time for the final performance of the night, as Adam sends out Judith Hill. In rehearsal we learn she will be singing "Feeling Good", written by English singer-songwriters Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the 1964 musical 'Roar of the Greasepaint - The Smell of the Crowd'. It was made famous by Nina Simone, and quickly became a standard.
She does a great job with the song, making it feel current and her vocals are tight and on the mark. This is giving Michelle a run for the money as best of the night. I can't find a fault in that vocal, not one. Blake and Usher loved it, and didn't find the words to show much. Adam is so thrilled with her, so proud she took her moment. If I am not mistaken, we will be learning the results from the performances tonight as well as Tuesday night, with an hour results show on Wednesday. To learn how you can place your vote, visit the official website. In brief, you can vote via a toll-free phone number, online at NBC.com, with the special NBC App, or Facebook. Unlike some shows, the Voice limits the amount of votes people can place per method. You can vote 10 times per phone, or 10 times via Facebook, or 10 times via NBC App between now and 10AM Tuesday morning. The phone number is (877)553-37XX, filling in the 'XX' with the artist number. Those numbers would be Amber 01, Josiah 02, Sarah 03, Cáthia 04, Caroline 05, VEDO 06, Michelle 07, and Judith O8. Now is the time to place your vote, and let your Voice be heard. Who did you love the best, who moved you?
It might have been drizzling on the way to Washington, DC, but once I was sitting in my seat at the Atlas Theater, the clouds were gone and life was good. No, it was great. You see, two years ago, when Tom Goss and Matt Alber scheduled a show in DC, I eagerly scooped up a ticket, and eagerly awaited the show. Until the snows came, and the highways were shut down, and I couldn't attend. Perhaps that it why a bit of rain did not daunt me on August 19th. The show started with a set by Tom Goss, which I will talk about in a later post. After an intermission, it was Matt Alber's turn to take the stage, you could feel the anticipation in the air. He played many songs from the new album, Constant Crows, including the beautiful "Velvet Goldmine".
In case that video wasn't proof enough, Alber was in great voice for the show. He was sweet and tender when needed, and soaring and grand when called on. Matt's vocals have such amazing quality and depth, I just wanted to curl up and listen, wrapped in his voice. You can hear all the qualities in the song "Tightrope", also off the Constant Crows album.
When I listen to that, I think "Tightrope" could be my favorite off the album. Until I hear the next song. They are all that good. However, I don't think the evening would have been compete without a couple of songs off his 2008 album, Hide and Seek. And more specifically, the great song and video from that album, "End Of The World". When I mentioned his voice could soar, it was on songs like this that makes it so very true. I have to tell you, listening live, I got goosebumps three times while he was singing this song alone. So please enjoy Matt as he sings "End of the World".
Finally, I thought I would include Matt's latest single, one he released to raise money for charity. The song was also a tribute to the late, great Whitney Houston, whose voice was such an inspiration to so many artists. And when he began his simple and restrained acoustic version of "I Wanna Dance With Somebody". As he started playing hints of the tune on his guitar, he offered a look into his life, making it that much more special when he sang his favorite Whitney song.
For more about Matt Alber, visit his official website. While you are there, you can join his mailing list, to be kept up to date on the latest from Alber, including live shows. If you can make it, go. Don't wonder about it, just get you ticket and be glad. You can also "like" him on Facebook. You can purchase Constant Crows on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. You can also purchase the single "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" on iTunes, Amazon and CD Baby. The money goes to the Larkin Street Youth Services. For more about Larkin Street, visit their official website.
I wanted to take the opportunity to wish handsome Aiden James a very happy birthday today, and what better way than to have him sing for me? Well, that works for me, anyway. I remember the first time I heard Aiden sing. I was at the World Cafe Live to see Eric Himan play, and this very cute man was opening up for him. It was Aiden, a Philadelphia-based singer/songwriter, and I immediately had to buy his first CD after the show. That led to the purchase of a second album, and now a third. Earlier this year, Aiden released Trouble With This, which featured the beautiful song, "Best Shot". Check out this amazing live performance of the show, captured for us all.
You can find Trouble With This on iTunes and Amazon, and on Bandcamp for the autographed physical CD. But that isn't the only new music Aiden has. He recorded a very special version of "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" that was released today, on the birthday shared by Aiden and Whitney Houston. Check out Aiden's cover version.
You can purchase "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" on iTunes, Bandcamp, and Amazon. For more about Aiden, visit his official website, or offer your birthday wishes to him on Twitter.
Singer/songwriter Matt Alber released a new single today, and the proceeds will benefit Larkin Street Youth Services. Following the passing of Whitney Houston, Alber released a video of the Grammy-winning singer performing an acoustic cover of one of Houston's early hits, "I Wanna Dance With Somebody". It also had the simple dedication: "W, I miss you already. M", along with the lyrics and credits for the songwriters, George Merrill & Shannon Rubicam.
Matt went into the studio to record the song, and now the single is now available on CD Baby. Again, the money will be going to Larkin Street Youth Services. The mission of the San Francisco-based charity is to create a continuum of services that inspires youth to move beyond the street. We will nurture potential, promote dignity, and support bold steps by all. Larkin Street’s Diamond Youth Shelter was recently rebuilt to create an inviting and modern home for our most vulnerable youth. Diamond offers youth a safe place to live and integrates them into to other Larkin Street services including case management, education and health services with access to daytime programs offered at the Drop-In Center on Sutter Street. For more about Larkin Street Youth Services, visit their official website.
Matt just completed an extended run in Provincetown, Massachusetts. On August 16th, he has a show in Durham, North Carolina. On Sunday, August 19, he has a show in Washington, DC, with fellow-singer/songwriter Tom Goss. For more information about that show, click here. To learn more about Matt Alber, visit his official website here. You can find his last release, Constant Crows, on iTunes, CD Baby and Amazon.
Tonight is the long-awaited Whitney Houston episode, an evening dedicated to the music of the late legendary singer. I feel confident that, perhaps for the first time in a bit, the producers will allow someone other than Blaine and a guest star to sing all songs. In fact, I am kinda excited to hear Mercedes, Santana, and Rachel get a chance. Might be nice to hear from Puck, too.
The episode begins with Kurt, Santana and Rachel meeting at Mercedes' locker, and start singing How Will I Know.
It is a lovely moment for all. Quite nicely done. Mr. Schue is chatting with Ms. Pillsbury, talking about how the death of Whitney Houston has effected the kids, and she remembers how the death of Princess Diana took a toll on her. It gives Mr. Schue an idea, and he goes into the class to announce the assignment. The kids must pick a Whitney song that will really speak for them. Kurt is, of course, quite excited, and after class talks to a distracted Blaine. He asks boyfirned Blaine to go with him to check out music, but Blaine can't join him at Between The Sheets, the music store. While Kurt is at the store alone, a boy starts a conversation with him, and eventually asks for his number. That gives Kurt pause. Back in the choir room, Brittany sings I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me).
She pulls Santana up to join her, and this is wonderful, frothy fun. Afterwards, Brittany announces that in her dreams, Quinn is dancing with them. Quinn looks hurt. After class, the dread-locked Christian boy Joe asks to go with Quinn to her physical therapy appointments. Quinn looks interested. Rachel catches Kurt getting a playful text, and assumes it is from Blaine. It is not, and there is some debate about the innocence of them. Back in the chorus room, Joe and Quinn step up for their song, and they do Saving All My Love for You.
We see the flirtation of the physical therapy appointments, and Joe pulling back. Quinn does as well, and seems hurt. Back in the school, Santana and Rachel team up to sing So Emotional.
The kids are loving it, and some have their phones out, videoing the girls. It is quite fun, and both sound great. And Kurt is giggling about an incoming text. Blaine notices, and looks hurt. In the bathroom, the girls joke about Quinn's relationship with Joe. She stops them all short, telling them Joe isn't interested in her and her chair. Joe is in the locker room, asking Sam about handling "those" feelings. "The one's in your pants," Sam clarifies. They talk about being a Christian, and how it won't allow sex. Sam mentions that tattoos are taboo, but that didn't stop Joe, did it. Joe has to learn to define himself, not just let others define him. Kurt walks into his room to an angry Blaine, who has been sitting there as the texts have poured in. He accuses Kurt of being unfaithful, with those texts. Kurt mentions the pain of being Blaine's boyfriend, once a star, now a supporting player. Blaine talks about changing his life to be with Kurt. Both are talking, but neither really listens. This ignites Blaine to sing It's Not Right But It's Okay.
Blaine storms out, and Kurt looks devastated. Rachel goes up to Santana to cement their new-found friendship. They realize there is just about a month and a half until graduation, and how much time they have wasted as enemies. Kurt and his Dad get a moment together, and talk about what is happening. Monumental changes are coming, and they both are avoiding what that entails - a separation. Kurt realizes what is happening, and relates it to his struggles with Blaine. In the chorus room, he sings I Have Nothing.
He sings it to Blaine, who sits there looking teary-eyed. In fact, all the kids seem to pull a bit closer to loved ones. Back in the locker room, Puck hands out little presents he has stolen from houses on his pool route. He wants to recall all the bro-ments he has shared with the boys. Ms Pillsbury is chatting with Kurt and Blaine, trying to help they through their problems. Both boys open up and finally start to listen and talk to one another, and Blaine talks of his feelings of being left behind by Kurt, and his being alone next year while Kurt is in New York with Rachel. They cry, and hug. Mr. Schue is greeting Ms. Pillsbury with champagne, talking about having their wedding at a campgrounds. She quickly realizes he is in a hurry to have the wedding before the kids leave for he also is feeling left behind by students he holds so dear. Back in physical therapy, Quinn feels Joe's erection while he helps her with her exercises. They talk, and both are unsure as to what it is, but both want to take their time and discover it together. Blaine greets Kurt at his locker, and wants to blow of the optional Glee practice to go make out. No one will be there, they all have other plans. Kurt wants to savor the few Glee practices they have together. They go, and find Mercedes and Artie are singing My Love Is Your Love.
One by one, they all come back in to join in the song. There is a real sweetness, and a purity to this cover. Mr. Schue is the last to arrive, and he is moved they all made time for Glee, for their very special time together. There should be a group hug, but instead, they pass around a picture of Whitney Houston. Not that different, really.
The movie trailer for Sparkle has hit the internet, four months before the movie is set to hit the theaters. To be sure, much of the buzz about the film will be that is is the last performance of the late Whitney Houston, but it is also the first big screen starring turn for American Idol Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks. This is a remake of the 1976 film starring Irene Cara, Lonette McKee and Phillip Michael Thomas. The story spins a tale of a trip who form a girlgroup in the late 1950s and early 1960s, much like Motown legends The Supremes. Of course, that is pretty much where the diverge, as the trio in this story are sisters. Watch this trailer.
Jordin is looking fantastic, and still sounds great. I am also impressed that Whitney looks good, yet also was willing to take on the matriarchal look for the film. Sparkle will feature new music from Houston, Sparks, and Cee Lo Green. For more about the movie, visit the official website.
Matt Alber has a simple dedication to Whitney Houston. Check out the video of him sitting down with his guitar and doing what he did as a child - sing a Whitney song. That song is I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me), off her second album, Whitney.
Matt mentioned that this was a song a young gay boy would sing at home, at the top of his lungs, teaching him a lot about singing. For more about Matt Alber, visit his official website here. You can also "like" him on Facebook here. You can also find his latest album, Constant Crows, on iTunes and Amazon.
It is so very hard to believe that Whitney Houston is gone. Sure, with the recent history we knew there would be a chance, but it seemed as though she was getting past it, pulling through it all. But that is not the case. And much like the case with Michael Jackson and Amy Winehouse, there is no real happy ending to this tale, only tears.
So let us go back to a time when there was much joy, and so much to look forward to. The daughter of Cissy Houston, the cousin of Dionne Warwick, the God-daughter of Aretha Franklin was singed by one of the greats of the music business, Clive Davis. He knew the pedigree was impeccable, and he wanted to nurture her talent. He groomed the young singer and released her first album , Whitney Houston.
Her eponymous album was released almost 27 years ago to the day, on February 14, 1985. The first single off the album, Hold Me, was a duet with Teddy Pendergrass. The song was released in 1984, a single off Pendergrass' album, Love Language. The track was also included on Houston's debut, so it could be considered the first single. The song made it onto the Top 50 on the Billboard Hot 100, and to #5 on the Billboard R&B chart.
The next single released, was the first carrying solely Houston's name. Thinking About You, started getting her noticed, although it didn't make an appearance on the Billboard Hot 100, it did make it to #10 on the Billboard R&B chart, and in the Top 25 on the Billboard Dance chart.
There were greater hopes for the next single, another R&B ballad that was sultry and strong, focusing on the brilliant voice Whitney brought to the studio. The song, written by La Forrest Cope, professionally known as La La, was produced by Kashif. You Give Good Love, was a great one, and it went to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, her first big hit. Sales made it a Gold Record, along with the widespread airplay of the young talent. The following clip is a young Whitney with a live performance on the Tonight Show.
As great as the success of that might have been, it could in no way prepare anyone for what was about to happen with Saving All My Love For You. The song was written by Gerry Goffin and Michael Masser, songwriting greats to be sure. Masser also produced the recording. Once released, the song made it to #1 on the Billboard R&B chart, on the Adult Contemporary chart, and, finally, on the Billboard Hot 100. The single was worldwide hit, was certified Gold in the US, and Platinum in the UK.
The fourth single off the album was How Will I Know. It was written by George Merrill, Shannon Rubicam, and Narada Michael Walden, who also produced it. It was the first up-tempo songs released, and on the heels of the last hit, expectations were high. However, I am not sure they were expecting the song to hit #1 on the Billboard R&B and Adult Contemporary charts. The song spent two weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100. It was another worldwide hit, topping the charts in Canada, the UK, and elsewhere. It also went to #3 on the Billboard Dance chart.
In March of 1986, the decision was made to release the next single, one that almost didn't get made. The song was written by Michael Masser and Linda Creed, who had also written Hold Me, the duet with Pendergrass. Originally recorded by George Benson for the 1977 film about Muhammad, Masser thought it would be perfect for Houston, Clive Davis didn't agree, wanting to stick to new material for his artist. After much discussion, the song was made for the album, produced by Masser. The Greatest Love Of All became the sixth single, and by May, the song was #1 for two straight weeks.
Songwriter Linda Creed wrote the song about her struggle with breast cancer, which she was bravely fighting. In April of 1986, Creed lost her battle, just before the song went to #1. The album was a powerhouse with the public, as it sold over 25 million copies worldwide, and was 13-times Platinum in the US. And it was a world phenomenon, as it went quadruple Platinum in Australia, Diamond (10x Platinum) in Canada, Gold in France, Platinum in Germany, and six times Platinum in the UK. This established Whitney as not only a new star, but a megastar. The effort was rewarded with 4 Grammy nominations in 1986, winning Houston's first Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female, on the song Saving All My Love For You.
Twenty-six years later, on the eve of the Grammy ceremony, Whitney Houston was found dead in her room in the in the Beverly Hilton Hotel, where she was staying to get ready for a party thrown by Clive Davis every year, just hours before she was to attend. My thoughts went out to her daughter, Bobbi Kristina Houston Brown, and the rest of her family. Rest in peace, Whitney. May you find what kept you searching for so intently here on earth.
In the wake of the announcement that Whitney Houston passed away last night, I thought I would change it up and offer some Gospel music from the woman herself. First I will bring you a Gospel medley with CeCe Winans and Shirley Ceasar from the 1996 Grammy Awards show.
Next, I offer you a memorable performance of Amazing Grace in South Africa.
Through the years, and the trials and tribulations of the respective lives, Priscilla "CeCe" Winans and Whitney Houston have been good friends, and have managed to make some exceptional music together. Take a listen to their performance of Bridge Over Troubled Water, written by Paul Simon and made famous by Simon & Garfunkel. It is rather magical.
Of Course, CeCe has been a cornerstone of the Gospel Music business for a long time, both alone, and when singing with her talented brother, Benjamin "BeBe" Winans. CeCe and BeBe sing Hold Up The Light with Whitney in 1989 on the Soul Train Awards.
The album was released in 1987, and had some of the biggest performers of the day contributing their talents to raise money for the Special Olympics. There were 15 cuts on the album, and few had an official video produced. However, I managed to find a video of each one, from 'official' to to live to fan-made, and will share them all with you tonight. I would imagine this post is going to be way too long, but I just couldn't really leave anyone out. So here are all 15 tracks from the album, in order.
The Pointer Sisters - Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
The Eurythmics - Winter Wonderland
Whitney Houston - Do You Hear What I Hear?
Bruce Springsteen - Merry Christmas Baby
The Pretenders Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
John Cougar Mellencamp I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus
Sting - Gabriel's Message
Run-DMC - Christmas In Hollis
U2 - Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)
Madonna - Santa Baby
Bob Seeger & the Silver Bullet Band The Little Drummer Boy
In March, Anthony Callea opened for Whitney Houston for the Australian leg of her world tour. Reports were flying left and right about the issues with Ms. Houston's performance, from fans who were highly disappointed to those who thought she did well. What never varied were the reviews for Anthony's performance, which were steadfastly excellent. I am not a bit surprised, for Anthony has never failed to impress me in the fan videos of his concerts, or the DVD I purchased. I happened across some videos of Anthony from the tour, singing a few new songs, possibly from a new album, due out later this year.
My All
I'll Be The One
Can You Feel It
Just a warning to Australian and US postal workers - when it is available, I will be buying the album, so please hurry that shipment along, OK? And Sony, how about sharing the love, and letting Anthony's music hit the US airwaves? And maybe, just maybe, perform a couple of shows in North America? And, if you really wanna be brave, have him do a show or two with another of the Sony clients, Theo Tams, and make this man damn near giddy. Sure, I understand Sony Australia is separate from Sony US and Sony Canada, but it really isn't, right? I know I won't be the only one who would appreciate it. For more on Anthony Callea, check out his official website here.
I love me some Anthony Callea, and have oft said he has the voice of an angel. He is adorable, hot, sexy, out and proud, and so freakin' talented. As I announced a bit ago, Anthony is opening for Whitney Houston on the Australian leg of her World Tour. It seems whenever pop stars go down under, they want Anthony by their side. Ask Celine, and now Whitney. I just wish one of them would being him back to the States so I could hear that delicious voice live. Like, for instance, this performance of Hurt So Bad from his self-titled debut. The song is sexy and smooth, and he sings it pitch-perfect.
Also from the debut, Per Sempre is a gorgeous song Anthony takes to a different place with the acoustic guitar accompaniment. And when he sings in Italian, it takes my breath away.
On his more recent release, A New Chapter, Anthony has a stronger song, like on the song Hearbeat. All about the love, Anthony combines a sexiness with a sweetness, keeping this song playing on my iPod.
The first CD is available on iTunes, although the second is not. Both can be purchased on Amazon, but are considered imports. I have ordered the live DVD and can't wait for it to arrive. I look at the DVD as my way of seeing him live, since I don't see myself flying to Australia any time soon. But if you like what you hear, buy it and you won't regret it for a moment. For more information about Anthony, you can check his website.
Anthony Callea, one of my favorite singers, is scheduled to support Whitney Houston on the Australian leg of her world tour. The dates are as follows:
Feb 22 : Brisbane (Entertainment Centre) Feb 24 : Sydney (Acer Arena) Feb 27 : Hunter Valley (Hope Estate Winery) Mar 01 : Melbourne (Rod Laver Arena) Mar 04 : Adelaide (Entertainment Centre) Mar 06 : Perth (Members Equity Stadium) Mar 07 : Perth (Members Equity Stadium)
Anthony earned his place on this tour singing brilliantly, like in this live performance of When You Believe from Prince of Egypt. Even live, that voice just makes me happy.
Wish I lived where it wouldn't be a 14 hour flight... For more information about the tour and Anthony, click here for his official website.
