Tom Goss & Max Emerson • I Don't Mind (Acapella Cover of the Usher feat Juicy J song)

Not only am I a fan of Tom Goss, but my sister and a couple of my nieces are as well. It is easy to understand, with his easy charm, striking good looks, and an inherent sweetness make him easy to love. And his talent, both as a performer and a songwriter make him someone I recommend heartily to others, with confidence they will see and hear what I do. I look forward to whatever music he is making, be it his amazing original songs or his creative treatment of cover songs.

The latest product from Tom is a cover song, working with model/blogger/actor/director/chipmunk enthusiast Max Emerson, who brings a strong helping of good looks and humor. Together they take on "I Don't Mind", a recent release from Usher, featuring rapper Juicy J. The original is a misogynistic ode to a stripper girlfriend that is, at times, rather cringe worthy. Tom and Max give it a bit of a makeover, offering an acapella version, laced with humor and self-awareness, making me smile and laugh as opposed to flinching and wincing. This is Tom Goss & Max Emerson with their take on "I Don't Mind" (Cover of the Usher feat Juicy J song).

Unfortunately, "I Don't Mind" is only available on YouTube, but if you enjoy Tom Goss, you might like his his latest album. You can purchase 'Wait' from iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. You can also buy the physical CD from Tom's online store. For more about Tom Goss, visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter. To learn more about Max Emerson, 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 • Tom Goss • What We've Found

As part of my celebration of Valentine's Day, I am offering up some songs from some of my favorite artists. It only seems right one of the first artists I present would be one of my favorites, and could be known as Mr. Love Song. Tom Goss certainly has a way to express his love in his music, often inspired by his husband, Mike. It seems once again Mike is his muse for the song and music video featuring "What We've Found", the latest off his album 'Waiting'. This song is so light, so bright, it seems like the perfect place to begin celebrating Valentine's Day. This is Tom Goss with the official music video for "What We've Found".

"What We've Found" can be found on Tom's latest release. You can purchase 'Wait' from iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. You can also buy the physical CD from Tom's online store. Tom mentioned his crowdfunding campaign, and if you'd like to learn more about it or become a backer, visit his Kickstarter page. If you'd like to learn more about Tom, visit his official website. You can also follow him on Twitter, or like him on Facebook. You can also subscribe to his YouTube channel.

Tom Goss & MDQ • All About The Bass

This summer, everyone was "All About the Bass" when Meghan Trainor went to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. And when I say everyone, I don't mean just my 2-year-old great niece McKenna. It would include others, like the handsome and talented Tom Goss. "When Meghan Trainor’s "All About That Bass" released a couple months ago." he explained, "it seemed obvious that I had to do a wild cover video. So I enlisted the help of my good friend MDQ and we got to work." Tom and MDQ went to work in the recording studio, and soon had their own version of the song. And it wasn't long before Tom enlisted a few more buddies, when he asked Aram Vartian and Michael Patrick Key to direct a music video. And I am pleased to share it with you now. Please enjoy MDQ and Tom Goss with "All About the Bass".

Tom and MDQ also called on friends Asha David, Circon Cay, Hide Okuno, Jared Lee, Joey Salnias, Michael Briggs, Phil Reese, and Taisha Cameron to help with the video. Together, they made a remarkable music video. To learn more about Tom Goss, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook. While you can't purchase "All About the Bass", you can find Tom's latest release, 'Wait', from iTunes and Amazon.

Tom Goss • Fancy (Iggy Azalea cover)

You can say a lot of things about Tom Goss, like how he is immensely talented, strikingly handsome and astonishingly versatile. But something you can never say is that Tom is boring. You see, he always seems to be pushing himself, and moving in directions even a rabid fan like myself would not see coming. From style to costume to substance, Tom will find a way to surprise me. And with his latest music video, he has done it again. Tom takes on "Fancy", the hit from Australian Rapper Iggy Azalea and English singer-songwriter Charli XCX. Tom doesn't have any help, aside from himself and some great equipment. His creativity and talent shine, especially when he releases his Wisconsin gangster with a joyous spirit. His performance was captured beautifully by Aram Vartian, who shot, directed and edited the video. The two wrok well together, for Aram has been on the creative team for most of Tom's videos. This is Tom Goss with "Fancy", the Iggy Izalea cover.

Tom has made this single available for FREE on his Facebook page. You better believe I got my copy, and it went directly into my August playlist. I can guarantee you I will be listening to it for the rest of the summer! To learn more about Tom, visit his official website. You can also follow him on Twitter, or like him on Facebook. You should check out his latest album, 'Wait', released this past May. You can preview and purchase it from iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. You can also buy the physical CD from Tom's online store.

Tom Goss • Wait

I have been 'waiting' for this day for some time, and it is finally here. The latest from Tom Goss is now available! That is 'Wait', a striking new 13-song collection that has been on my radar for a couple of months, when Tom allowed us a glimpse of his time in the studio via a webcam. That taste only made me more excited, and the time as come!

Between working on 'Wait', making his big screen debut in the film 'Out to Kill', and his recent European tour, it is amazing Tom has the energy left to release an album! Yet somehow, he not only has the energy, but the skills to make an amazing album! It kicks off with "It Only Takes Once", which brings the album off with an uptempo blast. There is something so sublimely Poptastic about this song, I found it instantly irresistible. Tom continues to positive party with "Take A Chance", and I can only tell you, I've been willing to take a chance on Tom and anything he is working on for several years now! I am not sure there is a better communicator for love, for Tom does it so well. Next up, we have the title track, and it starts off with a little Rockabilly sound, allowing Tom to take the mantle of the new Carl Perkins or Elvis! And when you listen to "Wait", he fits the bill like few could. And speaking of love, Tom once again reminds us that love doesn't mean only seeing the best in your partner. With "Worst of Me", he looks to love every side of someone, and finding the truth that is love.

With the opening chords of "I Think I", I got the feeling of some great old Punk song, like 'Parallel Lines' era Blondie. There is an energy that is infectious, and I just love that. While it might be bold and brash, it is still something I instantly put on repeat. Tom slows it down with "In Time", reminding us he is, at heart, a boy with a guitar. There is a lovely ethereal beauty to the song, capturing a sweetness that I love to hear and feel. There is a delicious treat in "Deeper Shade of Blue", a wonderful Pop confection sweet enough to eat fresh from the oven. "Breath and Sound" returns to a quieter and softer sound. There is an amazing beauty in the song, and it really touched my heart. And as I hear the layered vocals over the acoustic sound, I am quite taken by the song. Singer/songwriter Matt Alber offers some vocal support on this one. There is a sweet build to "This is Real", taking it from a mid-tempo song to an urgent plea. Next up, we have the simple beauty of "Illuminate the Dark", and we are lucky enough to have it as the first music video from 'Wait'. This is "Illuminate the Dark" by Tom Goss, directed by Michael Serrato.

There is a simple reflective beginning to "Falling", with a rising intensity in the music that is matched by the singer. With "What We've Found", Goss returns to more familiar territory, a simple love song that is not nearly as simple as Tom makes it sound. He captures love with such a freshness, and a realness that is so seductive. The last track on 'Wait' is "You and Me", which starts of with a surprising harshness, but soon rounds off the edges with a wonderful transition in the chorus. This song takes some surprising turns, showing how the strength of love, of being a couple, that can help build a home, a safe place for love to flourish.

'Wait' not only lived up to my expectation, but surpassed them. This is a great album, combining the best of Pop, Folk, and Rock into a great aural blend. The album is wonderfully balanced, Tom's strongest and most polished collection to date. Tom's work with Producer Tom Ofca of Innovation Studios continues to allow Goss to grow as an artist and performer, allowing his songwriting skills to shine. 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. You can also follow him on Twitter, or like him on Facebook.

Out To Kill • Poster & Trailer

The credits for the film 'Out To Kill' will feature several names I not only know, but also have been featured in this blog before. The movie stars Scott Sell as a private detective investigating the death of egotistical music maker Justin Jaymes. I was not familiar with Sell before this trailer, but hope to learn more now! 'Out To Kill' was written and directed by the talented Rob Williams, who also is listed among the producers of this Guest House Films venture. I love Williams' work, and 'The Men Next Door', 'Role/Play', 'Make the Yuletide Gay', '3-Day Weekend', 'Back Soon', and 'Long-Term Relationship' are all films he has made, and all of them have made it into my DVD collection. Justin Jaymes is played by Tom Goss, a musician who has been featured many times on this blog. Tom is also a personal favorite of mine, both for his great music, and his great personality. I can't wait to check out the movie, if this movie trailer is any indication. Check it out.

Before he was murdered, Justin Jaymes made a great music video that was already featured on this blog. "You Didn't Know How Hard" is a fantastic Hip-Hop song, giving us all a glimpse into the world of handsome gay rapper Jaymes. The video is almost as intoxicating as the song itself! This is the official music video for "You Didn't Know How Hard".

You can purchase his final single on iTunes, CD Baby and Amazon. The film is now hitting the festival circuit, so you might be able to catch it soon. The DVD is also scheduled for release in the Fall. To learn more about 'Out To Kill', visit the official Facebook page. You can also check out Guest House Films on their official website. You can also find them on Twitter and Facebook. You can learn all about the films I listed about, as well as a couple of collection of film shorts.Get to know them, for I am sure you will love them. To learn more about Tom, visit his official website. You can also follow him on Twitter, or like him on Facebook. Check out his touring schedule, for you won't want to miss him if he is playing in your area. Tom is currently on tour in Europe, but will be back in the States very soon!

Justin Jaymes • You Don't Know How Hard

Like a comet streaking across the night sky, out gay rapper Justin Jaymes stole some headlines with his devilish good looks, bold and brash rhymes, and some sizzling hot boys joining in his performances. Justin just released his brand new music video for the latest single, "You Don't Know How Hard". The groove captures the pain and anguish of living the life of a gorgeous Rap star, as only Jaymes can attest to. Don't let your eyes drift away, you won't want to miss a frame of this. This is the music video for "You Don't Know How Hard" by Justin Jaymes.

As you can tell by the end of the music video, Justin Jaymes was recently found brutally murdered, making this his last work. You can purchase his final single on iTunes, CD Baby and Amazon. Well, that is not entirely true. You see, Justin Jaymes is a character from an upcoming film from Guest House Films and producer Rob Williams, 'Out To Kill'. Power-Pop singer/songwriter Tom Goss plays the character, and from the looks of this video, he plays it a bit too well. To learn more about 'Out To Kill', you can visit the Facebook page, and get the latest information.

New Album Coming From Tom Goss

Singer/songwriter and blog favorite Tom Goss is getting ready to go back in the studio to record his next album, and is offering his fans an opportunity to pre-order the album, and get all kinds of perks! "I'm excited to announce that in one month I'll be holed away in the studio," he announced, "making the best record I've ever made." Part of this announcement comes with the news of eight different pre-order packages, offering the new album and more. It has been over a year and a half since his last release, the beautiful 'Lost Songs and Underdogs'. That album included the beautiful song Tom wrote for his wedding to Michael. Listen as he sings "I Do".

"One of the things I love about how music is currently delivered, is the ability to get something seriously cool and personal from the artist" Goss explained. Tom, always an artist who stays in touch with his fans, asked what they might like in addition to new music. "Last month, I asked you what you wanted, and now I'm giving it to you!" So the options range from autographed albums and pictures, guitar picks, to t-shirts, additional music, a personalized 30 second song perfect for your voice mail message to time in the studio, or three days on the road with Tom! I am not sure how long these options will be available, so make sure you check them out soon. But before we go there, I will remind you about Tom's most recent single, the delicious "Bears", with a video like few I've ever seen before, and only Tom can deliver.

I will admit I've been a fan of Tom's music since I first saw his open for Eric Him at the World Cafe in Philly in 2007, collecting and loving every album since. His music is wonderfully positive, so life affirming I can't help but love it. There is a joy to it, and it is a feeling Tom shares through his music every time you hear him. You can pre-order the new album at Tom's official online store. To learn more about Tom, visit his official website. Check out his touring schedule, for you won't want to miss him if he is playing in your area. You can also follow him on Twitter, or like him on Facebook.

Cover Songs Served Live

Clockwise: Matt Alber in Philadelphia, Pa; Tom Goss in Washington, DC; Matt & Tom in Philadelphia, PA; and Stewart Lewis in Wilmington, DE. Photos by me.

If all has gone well, I will be at the Tin Angel in Philadelphia, listening to the amazing Eric Himan and his musical support, the Soultré Sisters. So I thought it only fair you get some live music as well, from shows I been to in the area, and taken pictures and videos that I can share with you. While they has some amazing music of his own, I thought it might be fun to show clips of cover songs, something that always brings the audience in even closer. First up, I offer the very handsome and very talented Matt Alber, who I have been lucky enough to see a couple of times. At his show in Philadelphia, PA, with Tom Goss, Matt did a couple of covers, but I was particularly enamored with his take on the Katrina and the Waves hit, "Walking On Sunshine". It was a hit for Katrina 30 years ago, but Matt gives it a little "Alber" shine, and makes it feel new. So here is Matt Alber singing "Walking On Sunshine".

I have seen a couple of shows of Tom Goss recently. Sometimes, it just works out like that. For the clip tonight, I decided to go with a performance from a show he did with Eric Himan at The Dunes in Washington, DC. It was just after Tom had released his take on "Can't Hold Us", written and made famous by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, off their 2012 album 'The Heist'. Tom does an amazing job with the song, putting together the layers live with a deft hand. Turn up the volume and enjoy Tom Goss performing "Can't Hold Us".

I took this clip from a show in Wilmington, DE. Wilmington-based promoters Gable Music put together an evening of singer/songwriters, utilizing both local and not-so-local talent. Stewart let me know he would be in the area, and I couldn't wait to see him live again. He has a wonderful voice, and has a way to use subtle changes to really communicate with the listeners. While he did mostly original tunes, he had fun with a medley of hit songs, showing a light hand with editing on the fly with some old and new favorites everyone knows. Enjoy Stewart Lewis as he sings the "Hit Song Medley", and feel free to join in with him, for the live audience did!

Finally, I will return to the show in Philadelphia, with Matt Alber and Tom Goss sharing the bill. Both men are talented songwriters, and early in the show, Matt joined Tom on a performance of Tom's charming song, "Till The End". While the audience was familiar with the music of both men, I don't think anyone was ready for when they joined together for a duet. They took to the stage, and did a stunning acoustic version of "If I Ain't Got You" by Alicia Keys. Matt played the piano, and it was the first time I ever remember seeing Tom perform without playing an instrument! I hope you Matt & Tom singing "If I Ain't Got You".

Have a great night!

Joey Salenas & Tom Goss • Waiting For Your Call

I first met Joey Salinas while shooting the music video for "It's All Over", a single off Tom Goss' 2011 release, 'Turn It Around'. Joey had a feature role, and also worked on the choreography for the video. Apparently, that was not destined to be the last time the two worked together. One way I can be sure of that is the release earlier today of a brand new single "Waiting For Your Call", which featured both men singing a duet on this beautiful piano-driven track. There is a lovely dark quality to the track, as well as a lovely vibrancy that allows the song to take off and soar. The song and the vocals are just perfect, a fact that can't be missed.

"Waiting For Your Call" can be previewed and purchased on iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. To learn more about Joey Salinas, visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter. To learn more about Tom Goss, visit his official website, and you can 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook.

Tom Goss • Bears Music Video

Screen grabs from the "Bears" music video.

Singer/songwriter Tom Goss has released a new single and music video, and it could be my new song for the summer! "Bears" is sexy and sweet, and the music video, directed by the super-talented team of Aram Vartian and Michael Patrick Key, is a rollicking non-stop joy ride, a perfect compliment to the song produced by Rich Morel. I've seen Tom sing "Bears" live a couple of times, always bringing such great energy from the audience. This single makes the first time the song has been recorded, and it brings the energy in the live performances to a new high. Tom is looking every bit as hot, if not hotter, than ever! Once you watch the video, I bet you won't be able to resist buying the single for that great summer playlist! Get ready to find yourself some new boyfriends in "Bears"!

See, I wasn't wrong, was I? I know there were a couple of guys there who caught my eye! "Bears" is now available on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. To learn more about Tom, visit his official website. Check out his touring schedule, for you won't want to miss him if he is playing in your area. You can also follow him on Twitter, or like him on Facebook.