Jeb Havens featuring Michael Powers • Enough (Reba McEntire Cover)

Okay, I'll say it. I am not only a fan of Jeb Havens' music, I also have a crush on him. I just can't help it - he's kinda gorgeous, and so damned talented. I follow him on all the social media (yes, I expect the court papers to arrive soon), and listen to his music often. Recently, Havens teamed up with Michael Powers, an American Idol Season 11 contestant, to make some cool music. I have opted to showcase their duet on "Enough", the song originally featuring a duet with Reba McEntire and Jennifer Nettles, two incredible singers in their own right. But I must say, the two out and proud singers certainly claim ownership of the song, and make it something I wanted to listen again and again. This is Jeb Havens and Michael Powers with "Enough".

While this song is not available for purchase, there is plenty of music that is. You can purchase Jeb's fantastic solo album, the eponymous 2010 release from iTunes and Amazon. You can also find his sexy collaboration with Rowsy Bosch on iTunes and Amazon. Michael has a great single available from iTunes and CD Baby. For more about Jeb Havens, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook. To learn about Michael Powers and his music, visit his official Youtube channel. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook.

Matt Gold • On The Way

There has been much written, said, tweeted and posted about the supposed 'Religious Freedom' law signed into law by Indiana Governor Mike Pence. Sure, I have my opinion of what has unfolded, but what is even more important is the thoughts of an Indiana resident, like Matt Gold. Regular readers of the blog will know the music of this out and proud man from previous posts - I must admit I am a fan. But in the wake of the coverage of this bill, Gold has written a heartfelt and touching response, one that I felt compelled to share with you all. "I felt I had to write a song about what was going on in the state I have lived in for the past 20 years," Gold said on his Soundcloud page. "This is my way of hopefully helping the cause with positive reinforcement, sending a message of love, not hate." This is Matt Gold's "On The Way".

I just found this song to be lovely, and touched me on a deeper level than any amount of yelling could. He doesn't allow the conversation to be highjacked by tales of pizza parlors or Presidential primary hopefuls. Instead, he speaks for himself, and in the process, for so many others who won't stand for bigotry and hate. For those interested, I am posting the lyrics here.

"On The Way"

Lyrics and Music by Matt Gold

Light the fire

then slowly walk away

turn around

did anything remain

I have never been afraid of hate

I just won't have it

You've controlled our conscience

with demands

gave away our freedom

with your hands

even God himself

just wouldn't stand

for your waste

Go easy love

we need the love

to carry us through the day

go easy love

we need the love

to save ourselves

on the way

A coward only plays

a cowards game

did you get

your payoff and your fame

We shouldn't have to follow

in your shame

we just won't have it

To learn more about Matt Gold, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter and 'like' him on Facebook. While "On The Way" is not available for purchase, you can find his most recent release, the EP 'Let It Out', from iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby.

Ryan Amador with Jo Lampert & Gyasi Ross • Spectrum

Ryan Amador first came to my attention with his startling video for his single, "Define Me". Ryan teamed up with another out artists, vocalist Jo Lampert, to deliver a strong statement with the touching song and a sobering music video. Amador once again joined forces with Lampert to bring another statement to life with the song, "Spectrum". The song is the second single off the EP '4S'. Ryan and Jo are joined by Gyasi Ross, an acoustic Hip-Hop artist who delivers a soulful rap. "Spectrum" discusses the range of sexuality found in the world today, which is also reflected in the couples featured in the video. "Spectrum" offers the topic a real but lighthearted treatment, offers some insight as well as a chance to dance while you listen. This is Ryan Amador with Jo Lampert and Gyasi Ross with the official music video for "Spectrum".

"Spectrum" can be purchased as a single from Bandcamp. The song can also be found on his last release. The EP '4S' can be purchased from iTunes, Amazon, CD Baby, and Bandcamp. To learn more about Ryan Amador, visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter. For more about Jo Lampert, 'like' her on Facebook, and 'follow' her on Twitter. For more about Gyasi Ross, visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter.

Tom Goss • Wait Music Video

It is no secret that not only do I love Tom Goss and the music he makes, so does my family. A song of his was played at my niece's wedding ceremony, and my sister can't wait for his next show. But as that won't be happening too soon, it is great to get a new music video from the talented singer/songwriter. 'Wait' is the title cut from Tom's latest album. I am crazy about the album, perhaps Goss' strongest to date. While the new music video features the song, with also and a subtitle that is just too fun. The YouTube post carries the phrase 'Music Business, Hollywood & Sleazy Manager Hijinks', and you know we are in for some fun! It seems our fictional Tom has a new manager wanting to make him a star, which sounds great. Until Tom learns of the few minor tweaks the man would like to make to the man. This is Tom Goss with the music video for "Wait".

This music video just warms my heart. The video was directed by Michael Key, and Aram Vartian served as Director of Photography. These two have done such great work with Tom, and "Wait" continues that trend. Executive Producer Christopher Patrino does a nice cameo as the cameraman. John C. Bailey does a great job as the manager, while Jim Donohue, Kate Saylor, Taisha Cameron, Felecia David, Circon Kay, and Joey Salinas add great life to the video.

'Wait' is wonderfully balanced album, so very strong and polished. You can purchase 'Wait' from iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. You can also buy the physical CD from Tom's online store. To learn more about Tom, visit his official website. While there, be sure to check out his touring schedule, and attend a show in your area. You will not regret it! You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, or 'like' him on Facebook.

Valentine 2015 • Levi Kreis • Love Revolution

As part of my Valentine's Day celebration, I am offering up love songs from some of my favorite artists. For me, Levi Kreis was the best thing to come out of 'The Apprentice'. I happened to be watching during season 4, and saw this independent artist featured on a task. I like him so much, I did some research, and soon had his album 'One of the Ones' in my collection. I've been hooked since. With every release, my collection became a little bit deeper. That includes his album released in 2013, 'Imagine Paradise'. It had a higher energy quotient than the previous albums, fusing R&B, Dance and Pop with a light touch. To help celebrate this holiday, I bring you "Love Revolution (Golishevsky Remix)" for your listening pleasure.

"Love Revolution" can be found on Levi's latest album. You can purchase 'Imagine Paradise' from iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. To learn more about Levi, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook.

Valentine 2015 • Sir Ari Gold • Love Will Take Over

As part of my Valentine's Day celebration, I am offering up love songs from some of my favorite artists. I have been a fan of Sir Ari Gold since the moment I saw the music video for "Wave of You" on LOGO, and he continues to keep me enthralled with fantastic albums and great music videos. Whether he is making energetic dance, sexy Pop, or touching ballads, Ari never fails to engage me. To help with the Valentine's celebration, I offer you his sexy song, "Love Will Take Over (JKriv Radio Mix)". Ari deftly combines Pop and Dance to keep me moving in my chair, wanting to dance with the sexy singer. This is the music video for "Love Will Take Over".

You can find "Love Will Take Over" on Ari's 2003 release, 'Space Under Sun'. You can purchase 'Space Under Sun' from iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. To learn more about Sir Ari Gold, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook.

Valentine 2015 • Garrin Benfield • Be Love

As part of my Valentine's Day celebration, I am offering up love songs from some of my favorite artists. I am a huge fan of Garrin Benfield's music, and have been since I purchased his 2004 album, 'Where Joy Kills Sorrow'. It was my introduction to him, and it still remains near and dear to my heart. There is something glorious about the last track on the album, "Be Love". As a singer, Garrin shows such great control, a perfect complement to his layered music. It reminds me why I fell in love with his music to start with. This is Garrin Benfield with "Be Love".

"Be Love" can be found on Garrin's fantastic album, 'Where Joy Kills Sorrow'. You can purchase the album from iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. To learn more about Garrin Benfield, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook.

Gregory Douglass • Holiday Cheer

I was surprised when I discovered I had never posted about 'Merry', Gregory Douglass' 5-song holiday EP release from 2009. The collection includes an original song, as well as favorites old and new. In fact, the first song is one written by George Michael, The Wham! hit "Last Christmas" from 30 years ago. Douglass slows it down a bit, and pares back the production to give it a more intimate feel. Then comes an original written by Gregory, "What A Long Year It Was". It is a pretty love song, one that truly warms the heart. "Walking in the Air" was written by Harold Blake 1982 for a British animated film of Raymond Briggs' 1978 children's book 'The Snowman'. Gergory gives the song a ethereal feel that I can't resist. He also imbues the traditional English carol "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" with an exotic, percussive flavor. The EP comes to an end with a stunning version of "O Holy Night", composed by Adolphe Adam in 1847. Doulgass' voice is pretty damn amazing here. Listen to the preview of 'Merry' by Gregory Douglass here.

Gregory Douglass' holiday EP 'Merry' can be purchased from iTunes, Amazon, CD Baby, and Gregory's Online Store. In 2010, Gregory released a new single for the holidays, "Imagination". He is accompanied by his friend, the magnificent cellist Monique Citro, adding a layer of lush to the production. Once again, this song is an original written by the talented Vermont native. I really love it. I hope you enjoy the music video for "Imagination" by Gregory Douglass featuring Monique Citro.

Gregory is putting the finishing touches on a new album coming out in 2015, but until that hits the stores, you can support him by purchasing his great holiday offerings. "Imagination" can be purchased from iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. To learn more about Gregory Douglass, visit him at his Official Website. You can also find him on Facebook and Twitter.

Sir JET • Shout Out to the Lonely

I first became acquainted with the music of Joel Evan Tye when I saw his music video to "I'll Keep Smiling" on LOGO. I loved the song, and thought the singer/songwriter was quite handsome. As enchanted as I might have been, I must admit I lost contact with him after I purchased the single - the only music I knew was available. That was back in 2009, I think, and only recently, I found him once again. Now going by the name Sir JET, his monogram, as it were, he has a new sound, and a new image, losing the earnest vibe for sure. He released "Shout Out to the Lonely", an explosive and energetic dance track with a strong message.

When Sir JET talks about his journey, it now includes listening to himself, and allowing his appearance, the clothes and the styling, to be an extension of himself, of what he is feeling. This lead to the gender-bending look of Sir JET, as he allows both his masculine and feminine sides to be on display, and not to be afraid of either. This new expressive freedom seems to have served him sell, for the 'Shout Out to the Lonely' EP is bold, honest, and authentic. You can see and feel that in the official music video for the "Shout Out to the Lonely".

I really enjoyed the four-track EP, and really loved the last song, "Like God". There is a wonderful honesty in the song, and I just can't get enough of it. In fact, I really enjoyed all the tracks, and recommend it highly. You can purchase the 'Shout Out to the Lonely' EP from iTunes, CD Baby and Amazon. To learn more about Sir JET, visi the official website. You can also 'follow' Sir JET on Twitter, and 'like' JET on Facebook.

Perpetual Detour • Little By Little

Clockwise: AJ LeBlanc, Meagan Lanchbery, Jennifer Stewart, and Ro Gionet.

I first discovered the music of Perpetual Detour when judging the RightOutTV Music and Video Awards, when they charmed me with their music video for "What If It Was You?", a great song with a video featuring stop-action and Legos! The Canadian band includes guitarist AJ LeBlanc, keyboardist and vocalist Meagan Lanchbery, percussionist Jennifer Stewart, and bassist Ro Gionet. So I was very excited when the ladies Tweeted me about their mew music video for their first single off the new album, 'Tired of the Scenery'.

The new album came out at the beginning of this month, with "Little By Little" as the first single. The song is a Bluesy Rocker, melding the vocals of Meagan with AJ, creating a new harmony. The song and music video addresses issues of addiction. It also features images of lesbians in both intimate and casual situations, something rarely seen in the main stream media. We get to see women as friends, partners and lovers, and all taking a proactive role in their lives. While the entire band can be seen in the video, it is AJ who takes center stage. I hope you enjoy "Little By Little" by erpetual Detour.

I think the song and video just rocked it out, and am pleased to have it on my iPod. "Little By Little" is the first single off the album 'Tired of the Scenery', which can be purchased from iTunes and CD Baby. To find out more about Perpetual Detour, check out the official website. You can also 'follow' them on Twitter and 'like' them on Facebook.

Matt Gold • Let It Out

I first discovered the music of Matt Gold in 2012, when I first discovered his album debut, 'Drown Before You Swim'. I enjoyed the album, a collection of 10 piano-driven Pop songs that focused on issues of love and life. With strong singles and music videos for songs like "Oh Joe", "Void" and "Ordinary", the album is strong and oh-so-easy to love. So when I heard he was going to release an EP now, I couldn't wait to hear it.

Just last week, Gold released 'Let It Out', a four-song collection that included the already released "Appreciated". The cover features a piano, a lovely upright, set ablaze, lighting up the night. The EP kicks off with "Everything", a moody and brooding song that showcases the strong vocals of Gold. There is a wonderful yearning to the song. That is followed by the sweet and delicious "Appreciated", which never fail to bring a smile to my lips. I hope you enjoy the official music video for "Appreciated", which has been featured on the blog previously.

There is a staid beauty to the beginning of "Permanent Reflection". It carries a classical structure, and a beautiful melody. Matt's vocals are so pure and honest, I find this song so touching. The final track on the EP is the title cut, "Let It Out". The song starts out with a laid back feel, with a softness not found in the others. There are times Gold's vocals sounds like whispers, imploring you to listen closely. Soon it builds to something stronger and sweeter. When the last notes are sung, I have to tell you, I really enjoyed this collection and think you will as well. there is a nice mix of emotions and sounds, keeping me attentive and listening. And as always, Gold has a beautiful voice that never strays from delivering a performance that is on target. You can purchase the EP 'Let It Out' from iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. To learn more about Matt Gold, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter and 'like' him on Facebook.

Elijah Black • Bad Dream

Maybe it is a result of my youth, listening to some truly great music from bands like Led Zeppelin, The Who, The Rolling Stones, and so many others. My youth was spent in the 1970s and 1980s, which had all kinds of music being played. But there was always a fondness in my heart for the rockers, and that is still true now. So I was quite pleased to find the music of Elijah Black, a bear of a man born in Ohio, but now living in New York City. He is an out and proud rocker who makes music that drives forward and growls, with a hard edge that cannot be missed.

Last year, Elijah released his latest album, 'Bad Dream'. The 10-song offering divers music that sounds part Soundgarden, with hints of Metallica and Black Label Society thrown in. A great example of that would be the first cut off the album, "Waiting". The song brings new urgency to waiting for your time to come around. This is "Waiting".

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The third track on the album is the title cut. The opening has a vibrant and bold feel, reminding me a bit of Heart at their finest. The song takes a look and a stand on a person you might not still want in your life. We've all been there, be it with an ex, or that friend you never quite felt right about. Elijah tells them just want you always wanted to, but never felt like you could. Here is Black telling them they are a "Bad Dream".

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I love the raw power and emotion behind "Itch", the seventh cut on the album. There is great layered feel, with the guitar leading the way. There is something wonderfully sensual the way the guitar and drums interact, with a give and take. I love the song, and the way the sound can envelop me. This is Elijah Black's "Itch".

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I am so glad I found the music of Elijah Black, for I love this and the 2008 release, 'Better Man'. Both are moody and a little raw, packing a real punch. You can purchase 'Bad Dream' from iTunes, CD Baby and Amazon. To learn more about Elijah Black, visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook and 'follow' him on Twitter.

Von Smith • On To Something

Some might remember Von Smith as the ambitious singer from season 8 of American Idol. With a big voice and an even bigger personality, Smith made it through to the Top 36 before being (unfairly) eliminated. He was brought back for the Wild Card competition, and much to the dismay of many fans, he was once again dismissed. The great news was that Von did not give up, working hard over the next few years for a chance to have his voice heard. That lead to the next opportunity, when he Opened for Lady GaGa on tour in Australia in 2012.

As I said, Von never gave up on the dream of being a professional singer. Recently, he set a new benchmark for himself, as he released an EP of studio recordings called 'On To Something'. I first learned about this EP from my friend, JD Doyle, curator of Queer Music Heritage. When I listen to the EP, I find Von to be part Freddie Mercury, part Robbie Williams, and part Sammy Davis Jr. But first and foremost, he is always Von Smith. 'On To Something' was released April 2, 2014, a six-song collection with all songs written, composed, and performed by Smith. He has come a long way since he was on Idol, and seems to have truly found his own voice, as well as his own music. The 'On To Something' EP was released on April 2, 2014, a six-song collection that never fails to intrigue, nor to entertain. The show begins with the eccentric and bombastic "Carnival of Life", which allows Von to show off that magnificent instrument, and the ease with which he uses it. This has the drama of Freddie and Queen, melding hyperactive operatic moments with Pop and Rock. From the opening moments of "Pilot Light", we know this is a very different number, part Maroon 5, which the flirty feel of Robbie Williams at his best. "Almost Free" has a slow and easy start, building from Peggy Lee Jazz to Cyndi Lauper pyrotechnics. There is something so simple, to straightforward, so honest about this song, I find it hard to resist. By the way, as you read the rest, you might want to hear a bit of a sample of what I am talking about, here in a YouTube clip I made for you. Of course, the music and album cover is all Von Smith!

There is a coy flirty whisper at the start of "Monster", but soon we get to the core, a full-throated look at love and the consequences of it. This is such a charming song, part 1960s girl group, with a nod to Lady Gaga. And there is such a humor present, I must smile. There is a kooky feel to the idiosyncratic "On to Something", when I suddenly wonder if Von isn't the lost love child of Jim Morrison and Patti LaBelle. He delivers off-centered and slightly off so well, perhaps disturbingly well... But there is real beauty in the song, a melodic and lyric win, for sure. The EP comes to an end with "The Prize", a song with a wistful longing I hadn't felt thus far. There is a wonderful strength to the vocals, and not just in Von's voice. There is a power behind the vocals, not just in his mind-boggling range. As it comes to a close, I can't help but think Smith truly found his niche, and delivered a bold and buoyant EP. It is a wonderful carnival ride, hosted by a ringmaster who knows how to big you up high, and drop you near, but not to, the earth again. You can purchase 'On To Something' from iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. To learn more about Von Smith, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Tumblr and Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook.

Matt Ryanz • It's Love to Me

Matt Ryanz is helping to show all the talent isn't found on either coast. Some of it can be located in the Midwest, as the singer/songwriter is based out of Chicago. Ryanz first shared his music in 2012, when the EP 'It's Never Enough' was released. A few years later, Matt has a new single and music video, and he is eager to once again share them with you. Matt creates an electronic aural experience, and then adds stirring visuals to complete the journey. "It's Love to Me" is a beautiful and romantic story, one that is told to great effect with the video. It was directed by Laine Kelly & Donny Smutz, and features Carlos Tejero as the adorable waiter. Of course, the center of the music video is the song, written and performed by the sexy Ryanz. This is the music video for "It's Love to Me".

I just love the relationship we see in the video, and the joy it brings. You can purchase the single "It's Love To Me" from iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. You can also purchase the music video from iTunes. For more about Matt Ryanz, visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter.

Matt Gold • Appreciated

When I saw Matt Gold had a new music video out, I was instantly excited and couldn't wait to watch it. And to hear it. You see, ever since I head his first album, 'Drown Before You Swim', I've been a fan of his voice. And soon as the video began to play, I was excited, for it has a new sound and feel. While his earlier work has a personal feel, their is a delicious lightness to "Appreciated", and I just love it. And the music video is every bit as tasty, as it has such joy and whimsy. Just hit play and you will understand why I love Matt Gold's "Appreciated" so much!

I must assume that you now must love it too! The combination of animation and stop-action video adds to the light feel, and makes the video very bit a banquet for the eyes as it is for the ears! I had to buy it, and put it in my April 2014 playlist! "Appreciated' can be purchased from iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. To learn more about Matt Gold, visit his official website. He can also be found on Twitter and Facebook.