I'm working on a new spec script set in 1987. I had a great time putting together my script's playlist.
One of the biggest hit of 1987 was from this gentleman.
Buon Weekend!
Showing posts with label music. Show all posts
Showing posts with label music. Show all posts
Friday, February 24, 2012
Sunday, February 12, 2012
What the hell? Whitney Houston is dead?
I can't believe it. How is this possible?
I mean, I knew she had drug problems, but damn. Whitney was only 48. And now she's dead? Michael, Amy, now Whitney, all these super talented artists. Someone better tell me Prince is okay. I just watched Madonna on the Super Bowl, so I know she's alright.
I wore Whitney's debut album out.
I heard nothing but great things about her upcoming role in Sparkle. I was excited to see Whitney make her great comeback. I was just talking about the movie to one of the producers. Salim Akil, who directed Jumping The Broom, also directed Sparkle. It's a freaking shame.
Yes, Whitney was known more for pop music, but the woman had an incredible voice. A talent like hers is rare, so rare. I do think it's a gift.
She grew up singing gospel and soul music. Whitney was influenced by her mom, singer Cissy Houston, her cousin Dionne Warwick, and her godmother Aretha Franklin.
Whitney was one of the world's best-selling music artists. She broke many records and like Michael Jackson was one of the few black artists to "cross over" in the early days of MTV.
She was also a mom, model, and actress.
One of my favorite Whitney tracks is from her second album. Produced by John "Jellybean" Benitez, it was the JAM.
RIP Whitney Elizabeth Houston
I mean, I knew she had drug problems, but damn. Whitney was only 48. And now she's dead? Michael, Amy, now Whitney, all these super talented artists. Someone better tell me Prince is okay. I just watched Madonna on the Super Bowl, so I know she's alright.
I wore Whitney's debut album out.
I heard nothing but great things about her upcoming role in Sparkle. I was excited to see Whitney make her great comeback. I was just talking about the movie to one of the producers. Salim Akil, who directed Jumping The Broom, also directed Sparkle. It's a freaking shame.
Yes, Whitney was known more for pop music, but the woman had an incredible voice. A talent like hers is rare, so rare. I do think it's a gift.
She grew up singing gospel and soul music. Whitney was influenced by her mom, singer Cissy Houston, her cousin Dionne Warwick, and her godmother Aretha Franklin.
Whitney was one of the world's best-selling music artists. She broke many records and like Michael Jackson was one of the few black artists to "cross over" in the early days of MTV.
She was also a mom, model, and actress.
One of my favorite Whitney tracks is from her second album. Produced by John "Jellybean" Benitez, it was the JAM.
RIP Whitney Elizabeth Houston
Friday, February 03, 2012
Flashback Friday - The Soul Train Line, Elton John, and The Jackson 5
Don Cornelius started the show Soul Train in 1970. It ran for over 35 years.
This week Don committed suicide. According to news reports he was very ill and in a lot of pain. His son found the body.
As a kid I watched American Bandstand and Soul Train every Saturday morning.
I do remember seeing Elton's performance in 1975. One of my favorite songs.
Okay the shoes on the first guy dancing in the clip below, look like something Lady Gaga would wear today. Every time I hear this song I think of "Pulp Fiction."
The Commodores used to be funky back in the day. I miss this kind of music.
I might have seen this episode during the height of my "I'm going to marry Michael Jackson when I get older" mania.
Wishing everyone, peace, love, and soooooooooul this weekend. RIP DC.
This week Don committed suicide. According to news reports he was very ill and in a lot of pain. His son found the body.
As a kid I watched American Bandstand and Soul Train every Saturday morning.
I do remember seeing Elton's performance in 1975. One of my favorite songs.
Okay the shoes on the first guy dancing in the clip below, look like something Lady Gaga would wear today. Every time I hear this song I think of "Pulp Fiction."
The Commodores used to be funky back in the day. I miss this kind of music.
I might have seen this episode during the height of my "I'm going to marry Michael Jackson when I get older" mania.
Wishing everyone, peace, love, and soooooooooul this weekend. RIP DC.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Flashback Friday - LL Cool J - "Jingling Baby"
One night in St. Martin (still going through my pics), we were sitting on the veranda listening to my brother's iPod, drinking some Carib beers, and talking.
When it comes to hip-hop, I'm an old-school East Coast fan. I don't own a single Weezy song/CD and I know Rick Ross more for his rap on Kanye's "Monster" than for any of his own music. Hip-hop is a young persons game. Jay-z is definitely not the norm. Most MCs are done by their mid '30s.
My brother put "Jingling Baby" on. I haven't heard it in ages.
The video had me rolling. Look at the size of that cell phone and the ring on LL's finger! It reminds of the house parties I went to back in the late '80s/early '90s. Good times.
This song was recorded in 1989. My brother pointed out how LL was known for not cursing in his lyrics. I doubt he'd get a record deal today. What is your favorite LL Cool J (aka Ladies Love Cool James) song?
Buon weekend!
When it comes to hip-hop, I'm an old-school East Coast fan. I don't own a single Weezy song/CD and I know Rick Ross more for his rap on Kanye's "Monster" than for any of his own music. Hip-hop is a young persons game. Jay-z is definitely not the norm. Most MCs are done by their mid '30s.
My brother put "Jingling Baby" on. I haven't heard it in ages.
The video had me rolling. Look at the size of that cell phone and the ring on LL's finger! It reminds of the house parties I went to back in the late '80s/early '90s. Good times.
This song was recorded in 1989. My brother pointed out how LL was known for not cursing in his lyrics. I doubt he'd get a record deal today. What is your favorite LL Cool J (aka Ladies Love Cool James) song?
Buon weekend!
Friday, December 09, 2011
Flashback Friday - Donny Hathaway - "This Christmas"
I miss Donny Hathaway. What a voice.
There have been a zillion remakes of his song, but none can touch the original.
Have a great weekend.
There have been a zillion remakes of his song, but none can touch the original.
Have a great weekend.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Flashback Friday - Nat King Cole - Hark, The Herald Angels Sing
The day after Thanksgiving means one thing to me and one thing only. I can start playing Christmas music!
I miss albums. There's something special about taking out the vinyl, checking for scratches/dust, and then putting the needle on the record.
I strongly believe jazz and classical music sound better on vinyl... warmer, richer.
My parents had one of those stereos that was inside a piece of furniture. It was a huge deal to me when I was old enough and trusted to put the records on the turntable. For some reason, I can't remember why, my mom never touched the thing. My dad was the DJ of the house.
Along with the Francoise Hardy, and The Mighty Sparrow records, we had a several Christmas albums. The album we played the most was the classic by Nat King Cole. I have this CD as does my brother and sister.
I love this man's voice. Now it feels like the Christmas season has now officially started. Thank you Mr. Cole.
Buon weekend tutti.
I miss albums. There's something special about taking out the vinyl, checking for scratches/dust, and then putting the needle on the record.
I strongly believe jazz and classical music sound better on vinyl... warmer, richer.
My parents had one of those stereos that was inside a piece of furniture. It was a huge deal to me when I was old enough and trusted to put the records on the turntable. For some reason, I can't remember why, my mom never touched the thing. My dad was the DJ of the house.
Along with the Francoise Hardy, and The Mighty Sparrow records, we had a several Christmas albums. The album we played the most was the classic by Nat King Cole. I have this CD as does my brother and sister.
I love this man's voice. Now it feels like the Christmas season has now officially started. Thank you Mr. Cole.
Buon weekend tutti.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Flashback Friday - Heavy D & The Boyz "Somebody For Me"
R.I.P. Mr. D.
When I heard Heavy D died last week from pneumonia at 44, I couldn't believe it.
Dwight Arrington Meyers was born in Jamaica (Caribbean represent!) and raised in the NYC suburb of Mount Vernon. He was very popular in the late '80s and the '90s.
Not only was he a successful rapper, he played a big role behind the scenes as well. As President of Uptown Records he hired a young Sean "Puff" Combs as an intern and guided the early career of Mary J. Blige. He collaborated on too many hits to list. Like Janet Jackson's "Alright" and the theme song to "In Living Color." He was also an actor.
Here's one of my favorites from 1989. Man, most rap was so innocent back then. You had your fun/party rap and your more political/social conscious rap like P.E., instead of the sexist super materialistic crap that dominates hip-hop now.
This video cracks me up. Check out the high-top fade haircuts and Al B. Sure!
Have a great weekend.
When I heard Heavy D died last week from pneumonia at 44, I couldn't believe it.
Dwight Arrington Meyers was born in Jamaica (Caribbean represent!) and raised in the NYC suburb of Mount Vernon. He was very popular in the late '80s and the '90s.
Not only was he a successful rapper, he played a big role behind the scenes as well. As President of Uptown Records he hired a young Sean "Puff" Combs as an intern and guided the early career of Mary J. Blige. He collaborated on too many hits to list. Like Janet Jackson's "Alright" and the theme song to "In Living Color." He was also an actor.
Here's one of my favorites from 1989. Man, most rap was so innocent back then. You had your fun/party rap and your more political/social conscious rap like P.E., instead of the sexist super materialistic crap that dominates hip-hop now.
This video cracks me up. Check out the high-top fade haircuts and Al B. Sure!
Have a great weekend.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Flashback Friday - New Edition - "If It Isn't Love"
With all the controversy over "Bejesus" being accused, yet again, of ripping off other artists' videos/work, I watched the original that "inspired" her latest.
In Beyonce's defense, I doubt she comes up with these dance steps herself. It's clear she needs a new choreographer.
Here's some New Edition from 1988.
Have a great weekend!
In Beyonce's defense, I doubt she comes up with these dance steps herself. It's clear she needs a new choreographer.
Here's some New Edition from 1988.
Have a great weekend!
Friday, September 30, 2011
Flashback Friday - The Rascals - "A Beautiful Morning"
Grazie Dio it's Friday.
This week was rather... unpleasant. I had a stupid cold and heard frustrating news from LaLa land.
I woke up this morning and my cold was finally gone.
I cut through Doria Pamphili Park after an errand. I was so freaking glad to be back outside after spending all week stuck indoors.
The weather in Rome has been spectacular lately. Cool in the mornings and evenings, not too warm during the day.
I plan to enjoy as much time as possible outdoors before the rainy season hits.
The interview I did with Blackexpat.com is up. HERE it is.
I love this song. Buon weekend!!
This week was rather... unpleasant. I had a stupid cold and heard frustrating news from LaLa land.
I woke up this morning and my cold was finally gone.
I cut through Doria Pamphili Park after an errand. I was so freaking glad to be back outside after spending all week stuck indoors.
The weather in Rome has been spectacular lately. Cool in the mornings and evenings, not too warm during the day.
I plan to enjoy as much time as possible outdoors before the rainy season hits.
The interview I did with Blackexpat.com is up. HERE it is.
I love this song. Buon weekend!!
Friday, July 29, 2011
Saturday, July 23, 2011
RIP Amy Winehouse
I saw her once at the Soho Grand in NYC. She was so petite. A big voice and talent is gone at only 27. Sad.
I was watching CNN Int'l. They interrupted the program with breaking news. I thought it was going to be more news about Norway. When they announced Amy was dead, I couldn't believe it. I read she had been struggling lately. I was hoping she would make it.
I was watching CNN Int'l. They interrupted the program with breaking news. I thought it was going to be more news about Norway. When they announced Amy was dead, I couldn't believe it. I read she had been struggling lately. I was hoping she would make it.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Flashback Friday - Larry Hagman and Diana Ross - Yes, really
This has got to be one of the most random pairings of all times. I know it was done in the early '80s, but still.
Buon weekend!
Buon weekend!
Friday, July 08, 2011
Flashback Friday - TLC - "No Scrubs"
There were a bunch of videos in the early - mid 90's that had the same look as this video. Silver background, fish-eyed lens, etc.
It's a shame the members of TLC went through so much drama. Just as Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes was getting her life back on track, she died in a car accident during a family retreat in Honduras.
I thought of this song the other day when some random dude sitting in the passenger seat of a car tried to holla at me. His lines were weak. No scrubs! heh
Have a great weekend.
It's a shame the members of TLC went through so much drama. Just as Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes was getting her life back on track, she died in a car accident during a family retreat in Honduras.
I thought of this song the other day when some random dude sitting in the passenger seat of a car tried to holla at me. His lines were weak. No scrubs! heh
Have a great weekend.
Friday, July 01, 2011
Flashback Friday - New Kids On The Block - "Please Don't Go Girl"
Am I the last person in America to know NKOTB is teaming up with BSB for an album and a tour?
It seems we don't have any boy bands out there now. Are the Jonas Brothers still recording? This is a sad situation.
While no boy band in history will EVER top the Jackson 5 or the Osmond Brothers, I thought NKOTB, New Edition, BSB and N'Sync had some great pop hits.
I haven't seen this video in years. I forgot Rebecca Romijn was in it.
Happy 4th of July to those of you Stateside. Buon weekend.
It seems we don't have any boy bands out there now. Are the Jonas Brothers still recording? This is a sad situation.
While no boy band in history will EVER top the Jackson 5 or the Osmond Brothers, I thought NKOTB, New Edition, BSB and N'Sync had some great pop hits.
I haven't seen this video in years. I forgot Rebecca Romijn was in it.
Happy 4th of July to those of you Stateside. Buon weekend.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
R.I.P. Clarence Clemons - Born To Run
Compared to my classmates at H.B. Whitehorne Middle School and then Verona High School in Verona, NJ, I was not the biggest Springsteen fan. I don't know all the lyrics to all his songs.
I did spend many an afternoon trying to learn Clarence Clemons's tenor sax solo in this song.
Back in the day some crazy Jersey politicians wanted to make "Born To Run" the office state song. Hello, did they not listen to the lyrics?
Every time I hear this song, I get chills. It's so f-king Jersey!
Good-bye Mr. Clemons. Some of the youngins may only know you as that guy who played sax with Lady Gaga. But for us folks who grew up in Jersey in the '80s, you will always be The Big Man.
I did spend many an afternoon trying to learn Clarence Clemons's tenor sax solo in this song.
Back in the day some crazy Jersey politicians wanted to make "Born To Run" the office state song. Hello, did they not listen to the lyrics?
Every time I hear this song, I get chills. It's so f-king Jersey!
Good-bye Mr. Clemons. Some of the youngins may only know you as that guy who played sax with Lady Gaga. But for us folks who grew up in Jersey in the '80s, you will always be The Big Man.
Friday, June 03, 2011
Flashback Friday - A little High School Musical for Shelley, An American In Rome
I am very happy to report that the lovely Shelley is back!!
Many remember her blog reallyrome.com which then became Un Americana a Roma.
Three years ago Shelley returned to the United States of America.
I can't wait to read about her reentry to the Bel Paese. It's a big move from the country (in Washington State) back to a city of four million.
I first met Shelley in person back in March 2007. I cannot believe that was four years ago.
Shelley, along with a few other expat friends, really paved the way for my move. They were inspiring, but also realistic. By the time I arrived, I was prepared.
I've met expats who moved here with the idea of an Under The Tuscan Sun-type paradise. Then they get mad at Italy, because living here and being on vacation here are two very different things.
Shelley, this cheeserific song is for you!
Many remember her blog reallyrome.com which then became Un Americana a Roma.
Three years ago Shelley returned to the United States of America.
I can't wait to read about her reentry to the Bel Paese. It's a big move from the country (in Washington State) back to a city of four million.
I first met Shelley in person back in March 2007. I cannot believe that was four years ago.
Shelley, along with a few other expat friends, really paved the way for my move. They were inspiring, but also realistic. By the time I arrived, I was prepared.
I've met expats who moved here with the idea of an Under The Tuscan Sun-type paradise. Then they get mad at Italy, because living here and being on vacation here are two very different things.
Shelley, this cheeserific song is for you!
Friday, May 27, 2011
Flashback Friday - The Isley Brothers - Between The Sheets
I realize people born in the '80s may only know the melody thanks to Biggie Smalls. I do remember when this slow jam dropped in 1983. Anyone remember the "Quiet Storm" on WBLS in NYC?
Older folks used to say songs like this were "baby making music." ha
The Isley Brothers' first hit was "Shout" in 1959. They go way back.
Have a great weekend.
Older folks used to say songs like this were "baby making music." ha
The Isley Brothers' first hit was "Shout" in 1959. They go way back.
Have a great weekend.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Flashback Friday - Bil Withers - Lovely Day
It's a STUNNING sunny day in Rome.
I heard this song as I was running in the park this morning.
It's a timeless classic from '77. A little before my time, but it never fails to put me in a good mood.
Finally, my jet lag has eased up a bit. It's going to be a great weekend.
Song via YouTube is HERE
I heard this song as I was running in the park this morning.
It's a timeless classic from '77. A little before my time, but it never fails to put me in a good mood.
Finally, my jet lag has eased up a bit. It's going to be a great weekend.
Song via YouTube is HERE
Friday, April 29, 2011
Flashback Friday -I Say A Little Prayer For You - My Best Friend's Wedding
Continuing with the wedding theme... here's one of my favorite wedding movie scenes. Rupert Evert and Cameron Diaz were great in My Best Friend's Wedding.
This also happens to be one my favorite Aretha Franklin songs.
I did watch the Royal Wedding and I am surprised how much I teared up. I loved everything about it. The pomp and circumstance, Catherine's beautiful House of McQueen dress (Sarah Burton is crazy talented), the handsome princes in their uniforms, the gorgeous Westminster Abbey.
I lost it when Prince William said, "You look beautiful" to Catherine.
Have a great weekend.
This also happens to be one my favorite Aretha Franklin songs.
I did watch the Royal Wedding and I am surprised how much I teared up. I loved everything about it. The pomp and circumstance, Catherine's beautiful House of McQueen dress (Sarah Burton is crazy talented), the handsome princes in their uniforms, the gorgeous Westminster Abbey.
I lost it when Prince William said, "You look beautiful" to Catherine.
Have a great weekend.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Flashback Friday -Maroon 5 - This Love
Adam Levine is a native Angeleno and his dad owns the M. Fredric stores. This song was played to death when it came out.
Every time I hear it now, it reminds me of driving on The 10 to Santa Monica early on a Saturday or Sunday morning to meet friends for hiking in Temescal Canyon.
Buona pasqua/Happy Easter!
Every time I hear it now, it reminds me of driving on The 10 to Santa Monica early on a Saturday or Sunday morning to meet friends for hiking in Temescal Canyon.
Buona pasqua/Happy Easter!
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