The Voice – The Good Stuff

I love music. My taste is very diverse — continually being shaped by an unique combination of people, places and experiences. I never try to pawn myself off as someone who “knows music,” because I have too much respect for those who do. I did dance and took piano lessons growing up, but trust me, you do NOT want to hear me sing. But music is a topic that I never tire of and I love swapping recommendations. Please join in and share your own picks! View past posts HERE.
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1.Favorite New(ish) Album
Illinois – Brett Eldredge

I’ve been meaning to feature this album since it came out in September. Even though his voice is very recognizable, Eldredge wasn’t really someone who was on my radar that much. I liked a few songs from his debut album, but he didn’t stick with me, and I listen to enough music that that’s an important factor. With his new sophomore album, I feel like we get much more genuine personality and there is a really good balance of the types of songs that are on it. I am loving the stripped down version of the single “Drunk on Your Love” above (original HERE), and also enjoying “You Can’t Stop Me” ft. Thomas Rhett, “Wanna Be That Song“and “Fire“

2. Favorite New(ish) Collaboration
Back Home – Owl City ft. Jake Owen
Listen HERE

When I saw this in a playlist of new music on Spotify, I clicked out of pure curiosity. I never would have imagined putting these two voices together. I’ve never been much of an Owl City fan and I like Jake Owen, though sometimes he can be a little too much for me. Coincidentally, I’ve actually seen both Owl City and Jake Owen in concert.

I LOVE this song. It’s sweet and simple, and I enjoyed the contrast in their voices, especially in the harmonies. And really, I’m a sucker for any song that is an anthem for small towns, the country and anything that reminds me of home.

3. Favorite New (to me) Artist or Band
Chris Stapleton

I am all about finding new artists and there is a special place in my heart for outlaw country and red dirt music, but I get kind of annoyed when people insist that anything else labeled “country” is trash. OK, maybe we need new labels, but I do enjoy a lot of the new acts from the last few years. Anyway, when Chris Stapleton was nominated for CMA New Artist of the Year, people were beside themselves and carrying on as if the guy was an unsung legend, though surprisingly, I had never heard of him. I never got around to listening until his performance at the award show with Justin Timberlake blew up the internet. Holy crap, I regress. I totally understand the fuss now. That performance, shared above, as well as the performance of Timberlake’s “Drink You Away” immediately after, was amazing. I’m definitely a fan now. Off his new album I’m also really liking “Traveler“, “Fire Away“, “Nobody to Blame“, and “When the Stars Come Out.”

4. Jam I Have On Repeat
Lush Life – Zara Larsson

If you ever wonder what jamming out in your bedroom in front of the mirror with your hairbrush looks like, I’m pretty sure this music video is a great example. At first I thought the song was kind of flat, but over the past week on my walk to and from work I found myself pushing repeat. Don’t know how long that will last, but right now its my jam.

6. Favorite Spotify List
New Boots – Spotify

Always something new to listen too. It’s fun to think back to when so many of my favorite artists, country and not country, were just at the start of their careers.

7. #SoulMusic I’m obsessing Over
Speaking of Truth (Orchestrated) – Lelah

I heard this on a TV show a few weeks ago and instantly pulled up the Shazam app on my phone to figure out what it was. I guess you could say its a bit indie but I LOVE the artists voice blended with the instruments. This is a song that I would LOVE to see used in a dance routine.

9. Current Beat That Makes Me Want to Dance…in the Car…Jamming With the Windows Down
America’s Sweetheart – Elle King
Listen HERE

I have mixed feelings about this artists debut single, “Exes and Ohs,” but this song caught my attention right away. It’s an edgy anthem, and GREAT to jam out to in the car. I keep waiting for it to get old for me, but it hasn’t happened so far.

10. Taking Me Down Memory Lane
Eyes Open – Taylor Swift

I often identify songs that I think would make a great track on a soundtrack for books that I read, so I really enjoy seeing how the real soundtracks are interpreted when those books become movies. (For example, all opinions aside on the Twilight movies and books, I still LOVE each of the soundtracks.) I was really disappointed when I learned that the last installment of the The Hunger Games, Mockingjay Part 2 was not going to have its own. Overall, I think the first movie’s soundtrack was my favorite and although the other Taylor Swift track got all of the attention, this one above was one of my favorites.

11. Work, Work It Out
Bitch Better Have My Money – Rihanna

Grandma, you probably don’t want to listen to this one. I’ve always been a big Rihanna fan and I love turning this one up with I’m working out. I’ve also become with watching dance videos from this studio featured in the video above. I think because I did dance growing up, I might appreciate their talent even more. Seriously, not in a million years would I have ever been that good.

12. Making Me Want To Fall In Love
I’ll Be Your Man – Zac Brown Band
Listen HERE

Zac Brown Band has one of those sounds and music personalities that remind why I love music. They have carved out their own special spot in the music industry and you can rely on the fact that they will never disappoint you. This one above off of their new (awesome) album is adorable and makes me tear up almost every time. Of course I then found this video that shares the meaning behind the song and how it was recorded, and I did indeed, tear up.

13. Guilty Listen of The Week/ Favorite Cover
Torn – One Direction (Original by Natalie Imbruglia)

Go ahead and judge me. I don’t care, I’ve explained listening to One Direction before. Before I saw this video I didn’t know that this was actually one of the songs they covered when they were on X-Factor. It’s a pretty common song to cover, but it seemed far enough out of their wheelhouse that couldn’t help but check it out. It’s different, and I still think I like it better as a female solo, but I did enjoy their version.

14. Song I Originally Loved But Now Is Overplayed
Here – Alessia Cara
Listen HERE

I wouldn’t say I ever loved it, but it was catchy and different when it first came out. Now it’s just really gets on my nerves. Definitely over it.

15. Popular Song Making My Ears Bleed
My House – Flo Rida
Listen HERE

I can’t handle this song. Flo Rida just needs to stop. Yes, I jammed in my teeny-bopper years to “Low” and a few other songs, and still would if they came on the radio, but I’m pretty sure this one is killing brain cells and you can’t even dance to ti.

16. Country Pick
It Don’t Hurt Like It Used To – Billy Currington
Listen HERE

Considering this song has been on my favorites list for most of 2015, I’m not sure why it hasn’t been mentioned in one of my blog posts yet. Billy Currington is another artists that has been around a while now and in my opinion, still doesn’t get enough attention for his talent. His voice is rich, and his sound choice and sound is always strong.

AND

Dark – Ryan Beaver
Listen HERE

These song could fit under quite a few categories include my selections for #SoulMusic and song on repeat. For me it just has one of those smooth addicting sounds, and the lyrics stand out to me as something a bit different than what I’ve been hearing recently. I haven’t listened to anything else by this new artist yet but this particular song was perfect for his vocals.

BONUS: My Voice Picks, Week 7 – 11

We’re in the second week of live playoffs and honestly, it stresses me out. It’s so hard to choose! The contestants are just now starting to really settle into their own styles and becoming comfortable, so there are so many that still stand out. While song choice is still a big factor is what performances I like, I am finally starting to pick favorites based on wanting to hear more from them regardless of what they are singing.

Week 7 Knockouts
Dare You to Move – Evan McKeel
A Women’s Worth – Nadjah Nicole
Jesus Take The Wheel – Carrie Underwood
Turning Tables – Jeffery Austin
Cowboy Take Me Away – Emily Ann Roberts

Week 8 Live Playoffs
I Drive Your Truck – Barrett Baber
In The Garden – Emily Ann Roberts
Brand New Girlfriend – Zach Seabaugh
Something in the Water – Celeste Betton
Songbird – Madi Davis
Lips of an Angel – Morgan Frazier
Halo – Jordan Smith
Barton Hollow – Chance Pena
Say You Love Me – Jeffery Austin
Never Tear Us Apart – Blaine Mitchell

Week 9 – Top 12 Live
My Love – Zach Zeabaugh
Great is Thy Faithfulness – Jordan Smith
In Color – Shelby Brown
Let It Go – Jeffery Austin
Who Will Save Your Soul – Madi Davis
Blame It On Your Heart – Emily Ann Roberts

Week 10 – Top 11 Live
Why Not Me – Emily Ann Roberts
Love is Blindness – Madi Davis
Only Hope – Korin Bukowski
Delta Dawn – Barrett Baber

Week 11 – Top 10 Live
I’d Love to Lay You Down – Barrett Baber
Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Zach Seabaugh
Hallelujah – Jordan Smith
Go Rest High On That Mountain – Shelby Brown
She’s Got You – Emily Ann Roberts

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So, what have you been listening to this week?

Linking up with these blogs today!

Here, Here and HERE.

Cheers!

So There's That Series

What’s Up Wednesday: November 2015

November 25, 2015June 29, 2017 Amanda

Oh hey, what’s up? Is it SERIOUSLY the end of another month?!

This link up happens the last Wednesday of every month with the same list of questions and is hosted by The Larson Lingo, Mix & Match Family andPinterest Told Me To.

What I’m Eating This Month…

This month went by quick and though I kept up with cooking more and more original things, I didn’t really take pictures. It is the start of the holidays and I love to share with people so I when a made a few things ahead of time for Thanksgiving I also made a few things to share at work and give away to a few people including my great grandma’s nutty sour cream cinnamon rolls and Dad’s smoked salmon dip.

What I’m Reminiscing About…

Last year I surprised my whole family by coming home for Thanksgiving for the first time since I was in high school. It was great fun, but I’m not sure I could ever go that long without spilling the beans. I was super proud of myself.

My suprise trip home for Thanksgiving 2014.

What I’m Loving…

All of the social media Thanksgiving posts throughout the month.
Listen, I know lots of people think it can be superficial (or annoying) and that “we should be thankful everyday of the year,” but that attitude makes me so mad. Quit trying to find a way to be a gloomy hipster. So what if its really cheesy? I think the world needs a little bit more of that, especially lately, and I enjoy reading those tweets and statuses much more than your well-crafted, bandwagon political opinion.

NARS Lip Pencils.
http://www.sporcle.com/… long story, but my co-workers and I addicted.
The Bloggess’ Awkwarding Brings Us Together series.
The Timehop App. It’s a brilliant idea, and it never fails to make me smile every day.
My new flannel sheets.
The Prairie Californian’s “Thirty Days of Food” blog series
The Total Wine store.
This quote.

Joseph Gordon Levitt’s mad lip syncing skills

What I’ve Been Up To…
I started out the month at Lake Tahoe for my job’s Fall Board Meeting. It was a beautiful location and I managed to sneak away for a few minutes for some great picture taking…

My Spoo grandparents, who I haven’t been able to see in a few years, live a few hours north of Lake Tahoe. Because of the time difference my flight got in mid-morning, so they made the trip to spend the afternoon with me. Being back in Nevada and visiting with them brought back so many childhood memories of the summer I would spend there with my sister and our cousins. These two are such an important part of who I am and I just love them so much.

What I’m Dreading…
I’m pretty sure I’ve said winter for the last 3 months…

So, ummm holiday travel? That’s different, right?

What I’m Working On…
Finishing buying and making Christmas gifts… DUH. I am DETERMINED to be done when I leave to go home for my week off.

What I’m Excited About…
2016.
Really though, 2015 was incredibly unexpected, exciting, challenging and rewarding… and all in ways that I couldn’t have imagined when I rang in the New Year. But looking ahead as I start to fill in my calendar, set some goals and continue to explore my new home (which will probably always feel new to me), I am so incredibly excited for 2016.

What I’m Watching…
As I expected, shows are starting to lose my interest. I LOVED the first season of How to Get Away With Murder, but there is just way too much going on this season and some of the characters are really starting to annoy me. I just don’t see where the show can continue to go from here and not have those problems. I am about 3 episodes behind, and at some point I will probably binge watch and catch up to the Fall Finale because I “HAVE TO” know a few things in the plot, but after that, who knows. I also dropped Blood and Oil. I really liked the idea of it and the acting is pretty good but its too slow and considering I watch way too much TV, it was easy for me to forget about it.

I’m still kind of keeping up with the Voice but that’s primarily because I just turn the TV up really loud so I can go off and do other things around the house. I still regularly watch Gotham, Criminal Minds and Scandal, though sometimes its later on my computer. The two new shows that I am loving are Blindspot and Quantico.

What I’m Reading…
Except for re-reading Mockingjay before the movie came out (which I haven’t seen yet) I haven’t found the time or haven’t as interested in reading the last two months. It probably doesn’t help that I’ve been indecisive and picky, so I’ve legitimately started 5 different books in the last month and a half and haven’t finished one. I typically don’t have this problem and I’m sure with the cold weather that it will go away soon.

What I’m Listening To…
As always, check out my Friday Jam Session series for what I’m listening to every week (or so). Lately I’ve been enjoying albums from Adele, Eric Church, Sia and Ellie Goulding. There are always a number of new singles that I’m into, and I’ve joined the bandwagon and am STILL obsessing over Chris Stapleton’s (check out his whole album) and Justin Timberlake’s performances at the CMA’s

What I’m Wearing…

ALL THE WARM THINGS
…and November here is not nearly as bad as January and February.
(I also failed at taking pictures.)

I’ve had to refrain from buying every flannel I see because they don’t really fit into my work wardrobe, so I just got one new one that is seen in the picture above with my grandparents. My tall/skinny jean boots are also at their two-year mark and probably wouldn’t make it through another winter just on their own, so I recently got these Steve Madden boots from Off Broadway (I LOVE THAT STORE!) I’m so picky about shoes so I was happy when I finally a pair that worked for me.

What I’m Doing This Weekend…
Friendsgiving!!!

I am headed down to Raleigh, NC, which will be a little over a 4 hour drive, to spend Thanksgiving with my friends Jake and Nicole. These are two Oregon kids that I helped recruit to K-State and became good friends with along the way. They are now out in North Carolina and I am so excited to see some famiilar faces from home (Oregon AND Kansas!) Based on the chatter from the past few days I think we are going to have plenty to eat (and drink) over the next few days! It should be a fabulous time!

What I’m Looking Forward to Next Month…
One word.

HOME.

This Month’s Bonus Question: What’s your favorite Christmas tradition?

– I’m not sure how early it started, but my sister and I have always had this rule or understanding that we DO NOT under any circumstances go look at or go through our stockings until the other one is awake. When we were younger that meant one of us shaking the other awake at 6 am. Last year at ages 20 and 24, I got a mean text message from my sister at 9:28 am (as I could also hear her all the way up the stairs) that she was starting without me at 9:30 and that in the future, if I wasn’t out of bed by that time, she was taking my stuff.

– Pancakes for dinner on Christmas Eve.

– My family is usually pretty tired from our store being busy during the holidays, so Christmas Day is pretty laid back. Someone always gets a movie of some kind so we usually end up watching it and pulled out a board or card game.

– Uncle Jay’s unique gift wrapping. Trashbags are the most repeated, but past years have included newspapers.

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Well, that’s what’s up this Wednesday!
Cheers, and Happy Thanksgiving Friends!

Music - What I'm Listening To

Friday Jam Session Vol. 21

October 30, 2015October 30, 2015 Amanda

Yeah, so the past few weeks just weren’t happening on the music/blogging front. I usually work on these post throughout the week, but I kept getting to Thursday evenings with nothing started and no motivated to bust one out in one night. My sticky notes in my planner and notes in my phone were getting a bit ridiculous though so I’m back at it.

1.Favorite New (new-to-me) Artist/Band
Eric Paslay

Eric Paslay isn’t actually all that new to me, he’s one of those country song writing- turned artists that I’ve listened to since his very first single, “Never Really Wanted.” I sometimes wonder how its possible to continue to find what I think are fresh, unique sounds in country music, but I’ve loved everything that this guy has put out so far. His entire debut album is worth a listen with my favorites, “Keep On Fallin” “She Don’t Love You” and “Deep As It Is Wide” ( a remake of the original song he cut with Amy Grant and Sheryl Crow.) Right now I’m obsessed with his new single above, “High Class.”

2.Jam I Have on Repeat
Hello – Adele

I’m pretty sure most of the world hasn’t taken this off of repeat.

3.Favorite Collaboration, Cover, Remix or Mashup
I Know Places – Vance Joy ( original by Taylor Swift)

I swear I really do try to focus on not repeating too many artists each week, but obviously my love for Vance Joy knows no end. This was my initial favorite off of T-Swift’s 1989 and Joy’s stripped down version just sounds so beautifully sad and I don’t think its meant to be a sad song.

Whatever, I’m pretty sure Vance Joy is what angels sound like…

4.Favorite Spotify List
Heartland Drive – Spotify

Guys, this is a solid list. Country, rock, classic’s and new singles. Now I just need a road trip…

5.#SoulMusic I’m Obsessing Over
Tiger Striped Sky – Roo Panes

This soothing indie jam popped up on my Spotify a few months ago and has become a staple on my #soulmusic playlist.

6.”Oldie, But a Goodie” I Heard This Week
Srubs – TLC
Listen HERE

When this popped up on my Spotify, I about choked on my coffee from laughing… I had completely forgotten about this song. The 90’s man, they were one of a kind. Chick bands just aren’t the same anymore. Of course this led me down a rabbit hole on YouTube, so while we’re at it, why not also listen to “Waterfalls.” You are so very welcome…

7.Current Beat That Makes Me Want to Dance…in the Car…Jamming With the Windows Down
Getting Ready to Get Down – Josh Ritter
Listen HERE

I vaguely remember listening to Josh Ritter before, but when I first heard this song, I couldn’t quite remember who this contemporary folk singer was. Well, I think it’s safe to say that I am definitely a fan right now.

8.Taking Me Down Memory Lane
I’ll Be There For You – The Rembrandts

I’ve mentioned a few times that I have been watching Friends from start to finish on Netflix over the past few months. I finally finished a few weeks ago… so this is me, continuing to mourn a show that end over 10 years ago.

9.Work, Work it Out
Fire N Gold – Bea Miller
Listen HERE

I have no idea who this chick is, she looks like she’s 13 and I can’t decide whether she reminds me of early Paramore or if she’s more of a pop singer. I wouldn’t say that the song is all that brilliant but its a song beat to add to your running/workout playlist, and maybe a few jam sessions in the car.

10.Making Me Want to Fall in Love
Like I’m Gonna Lose You – Meghan Trainor ft. John Legend

Not a Meghan Trainor fan? That’s fine, she’s even a bit much for me sometimes. But this song has a timeless sound, and though I never would have thought to put her voice with John Legend, it’s magic.

But then again, I also think John Legend sounds like an angel. Maybe he and Vance Joy can start a band. Anyway, moving on…

11.Guilty Listen of the Week
Friend Zone – Danielle Bradbery

Friends, I really did make an effort to not like this song. I quickly skipped it the first few times I heard it and I’m sure I have a lot of friends rolling their eyes. But it’s just fun and so stinking catchy. I didn’t watch her season of The Voice, but you have to admit that the girl has got pipes.

12.Popular Song That Is Making My Ears Bleed
Me & The Rhythm – Selena Gomez
Listen HERE

Ugh. I swear I love her songs or I hate them. There’s no in between. This is obviously the latter. It’s just annoying.

13.Country Pick of the Week
Heartbeat – Carrie Underwood

If you know me, then you might be surprised by this one because I’m typically not much of a Carrie Underwood song. It’s not that she’s not talented, I’ve just never been a huge fan of most of her songs. But I’m a sucker for a solid, simple country long song, and I shamelessly love that Sam Hunt is on the harmonies. AND its great to blast in the car, so I’m sold.

BONUS: My Voice Picks, Week 3 – 6

The main problem with slacking on these posts is that now I’m behind on my weekly picks for The Voice and wish I had the space to add some commentary. But obviously that is not happening so here is just a catch-all list of my favorite performances.

Week 3 Auditions
“Stars” – Shelby Brown
“Photograph” – Sydney Rhame
“Drops of Jupiter” – Blaine Mitchell
“Downtown Train” – Dustin Christensen

Weeks 4 -5 Battles
“I’m That Kind of Girl” – Emily Ann Roberts vs. Morgan Frazier
“Wherever You Will Go” – Andi & Alex vs. Chance Pena
“Samson” – Chase Kerby vs. Korin Bukowski
“Walking in Memphis” – Barrett Baber vs. Dustin Christensen
“Baba O’Riley” – Keith Semple vs. Manny Cabo

Week 6 Knockouts
“All I Want” – Korin Bukowski
“On Broadway” – Darius Scott
“Hold Back The River” – Blaine Mitchell
“Feeling Good” – Braiden Sunshine
“A Case of You” – Madi Davis
“Colder Weather” – Barrett Baber
“Demons” – Chance Pena

See my picks for Week 1 Auditions HERE and Week 2 Auditions HERE

Cheers!

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Linking up with these blogs today!

Here, Here, Here and HERE.

Music - What I'm Listening To

Friday Jam Session Vol. 20

October 2, 2015October 2, 2015 Amanda

Friday Jam Session

1.Favorite New(ish) Album
Tangled Up – Thomas Rhett

For as much as I love music, I don’t regularly keep tabs on who has albums coming out, nor do I often count down the days until one’s release. I just figure once a single starts gaining traction and I like, then I usually check out the album. Thomas Rhett’s new sophomore album was an exception. Every new single made me more and more excited for the release, so much so, that I went ahead and featured “Crash and Burn” and “T-Shirt” already this past month. After listening to the whole album I could easily have featured every song on it in one or more of my categories.

I think the album is bold. My friends and I have an endless discussion on “bro country” and I can see why some would label it as such, but personally I almost want to call it genre-less. The album is both smooth and funky, and still has a bit of that stripped-down, very raw country sound that first got our attention with his debut. The video above for “Die A Happy Man” features Thomas and his wife, and is ADORABLE. I’m also really enjoying “Vacation,” “Playing With Fire” ft. Jordin Sparks and “Learned It From The Radio.”

2.Favorite New (new-to-me) Artist/Band
Rudimental

I am a bit picky when it comes to EDM music or similar types of musical productions that only feature other artists on vocals. (Side note: Is there a separate label for that because I don’t think this band is technically labeled as EDM?) But I vaguely remember hearing and liking their collaboration with John Newman on “Feel The Love” in 2012. Then I heard this new one above featuring Ed Sheeran and looked them back up, only to learn that this group was also behind Sheeran’s hit “Bloodstream,” which I’ve been in love with since I first heard it. I also enjoyed “I Will For Love feat. Will Heard”, “Waiting All Night ft. Ella Eyre” and “Rumour Mill feat. Anne-Marie & Will Heard”. Looking forward to hearing this group’s future work.

3.Jam I Have on Repeat
Backbeat – Dagny

I found a lot of new artists this past week, which is always a refreshing change. I sometimes wonder if people think I’m exaggerating when I say that I put songs on repeat… Friends, I recognize that its a bit strange, but I’m the kind of person who will re-read and watch my favorite books and movies over and over, so its not uncommon at all for me to have one song on loop, especially if I’m working on a project. There is so much going on in this song, its great in the car and has a great beat for my workout playlist. It almost makes me think of a less soulful, pop-infused Florence + The Machines.

4.Favorite Collaboration, Cover, Remix or Mashup
The Driver – Charles Kelley, ft. Dierks Bentley and Eric Paslay

With these three voices and lyrics, I’m not sure I need to explain why I fell in love with this one. I did panic though… why is Kelley singing with Lady Antebellum? I’ve read that he’s doing a solo album, but that it doesn’t mean the band is breaking up. Just the fact that people are talking about it makes me nervous, but for now I’ll just hope that its all talk and enjoy this unique collaboration.

5.Favorite Spotify List
“Weekend Buzz” by Spotify

6.#SoulMusic I’m Obsessing Over
Dynasty – MIIA

This song and artist fits perfectly into my “#SoulMusic” obsession. I could totally see this song featured at the end of a TV show… ahem, Shonda Rhimes? I’ll just hold onto my “I told you so” for now…

7.”Oldie, But a Goodie” I Heard This Week
Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac
Listen HERE

I’ve often thought about if I could go back to past decades and pick a few concerts that I would have loved to see live. If we’re talking about the 70s, I think Fleetwood Mac would probably be pretty high on that list.

8.Current Beat That Makes Me Want to Dance…in the Car…Jamming With the Windows Down
Alive – Sia
Listen HERE

Another week and yet another Sia feature. #notsorry. People, this song sounds awesome in my car.

9.Taking Me Down Memory Lane
Don’t Look – Kyle Park

This past week we have been talking about Periscope at work, and I figure that the best way to learn about new social media is to jump right in. I haven’t “scoped” myself yet, but I’ve started to follow accounts that I already follow on the Twitter. The very first live video that popped up for me was one by this artist. There is a special place in my heart for Texas country music, but sometimes they get lost in the mix of all of the different music that I listen to. I don’t want to commit but Kyle Park might be my favorite in this niche and was a large part of what made me fall in love with the live music scene. I think I’ve seen him twice, maybe three times… I can’t remember!

10.Work, Work it Out
On My Mind – Ellie Goulding

As usual, I’m a bit confused by the music video, but it’s a fun addition to my workout playlist.

11.Making Me Want to Fall in Love
Met A Girl – William Michael Morgan

When I first heard this I had to double check that it wasn’t an older one-hit-wonder that I had somehow never heard. But no, this guy is new and only 21,( umm what!?) He has a George Strait sound and Lord knows I’m a sucker for a smooth baritone singing a warm, country love song.

12.Guilty Listen of the Week
Hands of Love – Miley Cyrus
Listen HERE

Here’s the thing. Yes, she’s tends to cause a lot of ruckus and there are a lot of songs of hers that I flat out hate, but I do actually think she is pretty talented. And I actually really like this song.

13.Popular Song That Is Making My Ears Bleed
Hotline Bling – Drake
Listen HERE

I like some of Drake’s stuff, but this? NOPE. I almost didn’t even bother with linking it.

14.Country Pick of the Week
Hit the Road – Waterloo Revival

This song has popped on a few different Spotify playlists over the past few weeks. It’s subtle and doesn’t make a big splash at first, but it has continued to stick with me. It is the band’s first single and I am going to be checking out their album when it comes out. The live version above is a little raw, but I really like it. Listen to the original cut HERE.

BONUS: My Voice Picks, Week 2
There were definitely a few I could myself liking later after some different song choices and coaches, but these were my top 8 favorite performances from Week 5. I couldn’t settle on just 5 like I did last week, and I’m a sucker for a couple of the songs, oops. I’m always blown away by the fact that so many of the acts are only 15 and 16 years old, and sound much more mature.

Angel From Montgomery – Krista Hughes

Thank You – Alex and Andi

Here I Go Again – Manny Cabo

I Want You To Want Me – Morgan Frazier

Hard to Handle – Tyler Dickerson

It’s To Late – Madi Davis

Thinking Out Loud – Chris Crump

What’s Going On – Viktor Kiraly

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So, what have you been listening to this week?

Linking up with these blogs today!

Here, Here, Here, Here and HERE.

Cheers!

Music - What I'm Listening To

Friday Jam Session Vol. 19

September 25, 2015September 25, 2015 Amanda

1.Favorite New(ish) Album
1989 (Cover Album) – Ryan Adams

The internet about had a heart attack last week when T-Swift herself started promoting the release of Ryan Adams’ full cover album of 1989. I’ve listened to the guy a few times before and I like his sound, but with the craze this cover album started, I found myself just as anxious to hear it.

It’s weird and wonderful all at once, and I think regardless if you are a Taylor Swift fan or not, I’d say that is a testament to her writing. Most of the upbeat songs were slowed down and the slow ones sound more haunting. I was somewhat surprised that my favorites were the exact opposite from my favorites on the original album. His cover of “Style” above was probably my overall pick followed closely by “This Love.” I also really enjoyed “All You Had to Do Was Stay” “Bad Blood” and “Clean.”

2.Favorite New (new-to-me) Artist/Band
Hideaway – Daya
Listen HERE

If you had told me the first few time I heard this song that this girl is only 16, I wouldn’t have believed. Her voice definitely sounds more mature. This is her first single off of her upcoming debut album. I actually haven’t had a chance to really check out any of her other music, but I fear it might be that I just like this particular song. We’ll have to see.

3.Jam I Have on Repeat
T-Shirt – Thomas Rhett

I kept telling myself that I was going to wait to feature Thomas Rhett again until his full new album came out today. But I CAN’T stopping putting this song on repeat. It’s becoming unhealthy. That said, don’t be surprised when I feature the album next weekend…

4.Favorite Collaboration, Cover, Remix or Mashup
XO – John Mayer
Listen HERE

I love Queen Bey, but I definitely like John Mayer’s version better.

5.Favorite Spotify List
“All Out 90’s” by Spotify

My early childhood was pretty awesome.

6.#SoulMusic I’m Obsessing Over
Burning House – Cam
Listen HERE

This song has such a sad and haunting, but beautiful sound. It actually reminds me a bit of the Dixie Chicks.

7.”Oldie, But a Goodie” I Heard This Week
Holiday in the Sun – Weezer
Listen HERE

So this is where I admit that the straight-to-video Mary-Kate and Ashley movie “Holiday in the Sun” is one of my most watched movies… EVER. Yepp, I am from the Olsen twins generation and for some reason my friend Kari and I were obsessed with that movie. This song always reminds me of our friendship, and of course, how ridiculous that movie is.

8.Current Beat That Makes Me Want to Dance…in the Car…Jamming With the Windows Down
Tear in My Heart – Twenty One Pilots

I’m warning you, this band is weird, and what’s even stranger is how oddly addictive their music is. When they opened for a Imagine Dragons concert I went to a few years ago, that’s all took for me to become a fan. Sure they’re weird but they’re talented and have an energy that is contagious. I’m loving this song off of their new album, but my favorite will always be “Holding Onto You.”

9.Taking Me Down Memory Lane
Vogue – Madonna

This week is another trip down memory lane to my dance days. This was the competition performance song the first year I was a competitive team in 5th grade and after dozens of routines since then, this is the one that I still remember the most of.

10.Work, Work it Out
Move Along – All-American Rejects

Ahh the band of my high school days, I miss you guys. This song still gets played at least once every run I go on.

11.Making Me Want to Fall in Love
Fire and The Flood – Vance Joy

You know, if I’m just going to feature Vance Joy every single week anyway, maybe he should just get his own category?

Seriously though, this song… swoon.

12.Guilty Listen of the Week
Same Old Love – Selena Gomez
Listen HERE

Don’t know about the rest of the song, but I’m a sucker for a catchy and quirky chorus.

13.Song That I Originally Loved, But Is Now Overplayed
Jason Derulo

This week I’m talking about an artist, not a song. I really liked Jason Derulo when he first came out when I was in college. The song above was probably one of the most played songs on my iPod for a few months straight. I even saw him in concert when he came to K-State. But lately I just find myself annoyed by his music. Sure a lot of it is catchy, and he’s obviously talented, but it just seems all the same and too much. And don’t get me started on his #bromance with Florida Georgia Line…. Just no. I need a break from his music.

14.Popular Song That Is Making My Ears Bleed
Tulips – Christopher
Listen HERE

I have so many mean comments, but lets just talk about what’s really bothering me…Christopher?? Man, have a single stage name is supposed to be cool like Beyoncé, Lorde, Bono, Madonna or heck even Kanye. But Christopher? I just don’t get it.

15.Country Pick of the Week
Before You Drive Me Crazy – Wes Mack

Really loving this song from another new country kid on the block that look’s like the Weasley’s had yet another son that we didn’t know about. The music video is a bit overdramatic but its a solid debut song.

BONUS: My Voice Picks, Week 1

I missed The Voice last season because of my move to DC. By the time I was settled in I was just too behind to even attempt to catch up. I am glad to see that they have Gwen back instead Christina, she’s by far my favorite female coach they’ve had. I’m currently still trying to decide if I am going to stay committed. Let’s be honest, the main reason I watch is for the banter between Adam and Blake. And why do they show SO MANY of the no-turn performances? I felt like that was most of what Tuesday night’s show featured. With that said these are few that really stood out to me during the first week of blind auditions. Seems like a lot of country right now, which is my favorite genre, but I’m hoping and assuming that will eventually balance out. These were my top 5 favorite performances from Week 1. There were a few others who could see myself potentially liking more later on but this is my picks for this week.

Angel Eyes – Barrett Baber

Chandelier – Jordan Smith

Typical – Evan McKeel

Let Her Cry – James Dupré

We Don’t Have to Take Our Clothes Off – Ellie Lawrence

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So, what have you been listening to this week?

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Music - What I'm Listening To

Friday Jam Session: The Voice S7: Part 1

November 21, 2014December 12, 2014 Amanda

I’m a tad bit late to The Voice craze. I’ve always known what it was, mostly because my sister is an avid fan, but I didn’t have TV (or even Netflix for that matter) in college so my screen time was extremely limited. But I knew I could be a fan because I usually found myself binge watching YouTube video of highlights and performances. So this season I have joined the club. Up until the “Live Playoffs” I’ve been recording it on my DVR and watching it throughout the rest of the week. Two hours is a little too much time to dedicate to sitting and watching one show.

A few of my early favorites have been cut, but for the most part I can follow the coaches’ train of thought. Lots of great voices come through this show, but there seems to be a specific formula and checklist to be a good fit for this particular environment. Speaking of the coaches, Blake and Adam are both artists that I have been a longtime fan of, and their bromance is just plain hysterical. As for the other two, from what little I’ve seen of past coaches and now of Pharrell and Gwen, I think they’ve got a really strong group. Gwen is the pennant bearer for girl power for all who grew up in the time of No Doubt’s reign. And while Pharrell is an artist that I’ve only become familiar with in the last couple of years, this guy is a master at giving pep talks. Seriously, I kind of wish he could be my life coach.

This week was #TheVoiceTop12 Playoffs where all twelve artists performed live and America chose the Top 10 to move on to next week.
For this post I split the Top 10 down to my Top 5 artists, which was really difficult because I could see myself being a fan of quite a few of them. Now if I was just doing the Top 5 performances, my list might look a little different because that would be heavily influenced by what were already some of my favorite songs. But I chose my Top 5 artists based on their overall appeal, including voice, style and personality, and whether or not I think I would go out and buy their music. This list is not in any particular order.

Disclaimer: I am well aware that 3 out of the 5 are guys with long hair. Despite to my extreme dislike for guys with long hair, they all still made the cut. They should feel honored…

1. Matt McAndrew

So I kind of lied, because I know that Matt’s song choices have definitely influenced his spot on this list. “Yellow” and “Drops of Jupiter” are two of my all-time favorite songs, and I think he did them justice. With that said, I’m oddly fascinated by this guy. I like him now, and I think I could like him in 40 years – even with that ridiculous hair. Then the morning of the playoffs this week I was listening to Hozier’s “Take Me to Church,” (one of my favorite songs of 2014) and thought it would be a great fit for this guy…and what happened? BOOM. I’m a psychic. And while it probably wouldn’t have as much star power with America, I’m dying for him to sing some Mat Kearney…

2. Taylor John Williams

This guy was my early favorites, and no, not just because he’s a fellow Oregonian. Like Matt McAndrew, I’m oddly fascinated by Taylor and his voice. He might not be singing all my favorite songs like Matt is, but each time his performance end, I want to hear more. His blind audition of “Heartless” could have been his own song, “Stuck in the Middle With You” took me back in time and I thought his battle round duet of “Jolene” was endearing. And while I think that he has improved with each week (as they should) my favorite performance of his so far was in the Knockouts with “Mad World.” Guys, the 1:45 mark says it all. Give me this on repeat.

3. Danica Shirey

This girl has some soul pipes. I’d definitely say that this season is male dominated, but homegirl is holding her own. It seems like those who are successful on The Voice are the ones who are really able to sell the big note moments. Danica does that in every performance. Plus it helps that she comes across as extremely down to earth, and even a little shy from too much attention. She makes you want to know what her story is. I’d buy her music AND feel like I could grab a cup of coffee with her. “Creep” and “Help Me” were great performances, but “Saving All My Love for You” was my favorite.

4. Chris Jamison

I like Chris because at first glance he doesn’t seem as unique as Matt and Taylor do, but he quickly makes you forget the pretty boy stereotype you were putting him in and instead creates his own niche. When it comes to his voice think Adam Levine’s sexy falsetto meets Michael Buble’s warm and smooth croons. Just watch Pharrell’s face at 00:45 of his blind audition of “Gravity.” And there’s versatility. He nailed Nick Jonas’ new beat above and threw it back with Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay.” I wasn’t a big of fan of “Don’t”, but I definitely want to hear more from this kid.

5. Craig Wayne Boyd

I’ll admit I was weary of Craig at first. My taste in music ranges far and wide, but at the core is country music. And well, the definition of “country” has been thrown around like a rag doll lately. Bro country, nashville, outlaw, red dirt…it all has a place, but it is all making my head hurt. But kind of like his journey on the show, where Craig keeps fighting his way through, he won me over. His voice is most comparable to Travis Tritt’s and he’s got the southern vibe like Confederate Railroad, Shenandoah and maybe even Sawyer Brown that sometimes walks the line between country and rock. To me his turning point “statement moment” was his performance of Marshall Tucker Band’s cover above. He also took on “Some Kind of Wonderful” and the King’s “You Look So Good in Love”.

Favorite Team Performance So Far…

I haven’t really enjoyed that many of the team performances, but I did really like Team Gwen’s performance of “Riptide.”

The Artists I’d Like To Bring Back…

Despite my comments about country music above, I really do wish that James David Carter was still on the show. He had my overall favorite blind audition with “Nobody Knows”, I enjoyed his very laid back persona and his voice was just about as pure, stripped down country as they come. His performances of “Two of a Kind Workin’ on a Full House” and “You’ve Got a Friend” were good too.

I was really disappointed that Pharrell didn’t save Taylor Phelan when he had the chance. His blind audition of “Sweater Weather” was my next favorite, and considering I really don’t like that song originally, thats impressive. One of the coaches made the comment during his audition that he reminded them of Ryan Tedder (of OneRepublic) by the way he became apart of the music. I agree. He was someone who I wanted to hear more from. He also performed “Rather Be” and “Cool Kids.”

Other favorite performances

Ryan Sill – “Ordinary World“
Luke Wade – “Rich Girl”
Reagan James – “Try”
Taylor Breshears – “Landslide”
Damien – “How Do I Live”
Ricky Manning – “Lay Me Down”
Troy Ritchie – “Hey Ya!”
Jessie Pitts vs. Ryan Sill – “I Need Your Love”
Troy Ritchie vs. Menlik Zergabachew – “Maneater”
Elyjuh Rene vs. Maiya Sykes – “If I Ain’t Got You”
Griffin vs. Luke Wade – “Maybe I’m Amazed”
Jonathan Wyndham – “Say Something”
Anita Antoinette – “Turn Your Lights Down Low”
Menlik Zergabachew – “Santeria”

Tag: The Voice

Friday Jam Session Vol. 23

What’s Up Wednesday: November 2015

Friday Jam Session Vol. 21

Friday Jam Session Vol. 20

Friday Jam Session Vol. 19

Friday Jam Session: The Voice S7: Part 1