Buzzworthy Music Tuesdays: October 4th

Jessie J

    You may already have heard of this British R&B singer. Without a doubt, she's got the pipes to sing but all of her current US singles have been auto tuned to the point of ANNOYANCE. Her hits "Price Tag" and "Domino" are fun but they don't show us a real artist. I wasn't a fan until I saw her raw YouTube videos. She's literally singing acoustic in her flat with a web cam. Why does the music industry feel the need to Katy Perry everything? Jessie J sounds amazing on her own! Granted the below video was made in 2009 - but I do like how you can get to know her personality. It's quite endearing to see a struggling artist become a future star.

Buzzworthy Music Tuesdays: September 27

Janelle Monae

    This R&B singer doing things her own way. Known for her chic menswear inspired suits, this lady has hit the commercial airways with a bang. Her music is played on ads for Target, JcPenny, Gap, Kmart, and Coca-Cola. I was looking to forward to seeing her headline at the Afro-Punk festival in NYC in late August but it was cancelled due to Hurricane Irene. Her video brings a smile to my face because of her distinct individually and talent to rock it out. Being fearless in the music industry is something we need to see more often. Go on Janelle with ya bad self.

Buzzworthy Music Tuesdays: September 13th

Eddie Murphy

    So, it was finally confirmed last week that Eddie Murphy will be hosting the 2012 Oscars. I’d be really excited if this was 1985 but poor Eddie hasn’t had the most successful career in the 2000s. *Pluto Nash, Norbit... do I need to continue?* But I am a fan of Eddie's (see my Coming To America post) and do wish for the best. Must not forget he was nominated for his supporting actor performance in Dreamgirls. Maybe he can choose better projects to highlight his talent after this big profile gig. Here’s hoping Mr. Murphy can bring the goods and maybe do some old SNL skits. Fingers crossed that he opens the ceremony singing the below song (which happens to be my go-to karaoke song).

Buzzworthy Music Tuesdays: September 6th

Jay-Z

Oh No, I Din’t!

    I’m throwing it back Brooklyn style. For three straight days, I’ve seen Hova music videos pop up on my screen! It’s like the universe wants me to kick it a little ol’ school.

    Here’s a little doozy from the late 90s that we all love and remember. Of course, Mr. Shawn Carter has grown from this time period to become one of the most successful artists in the history of music. This mega-brand man doesn’t look to retiring anytime soon. I’m so grateful for that! If you haven’t yet heard his newest release with Kanye West, please do immediately. Watch the Throne is not to be missed.

Buzzworthy Music Tuesdays: August 30

Laura Marling

    This British folk singer has been on the scene for awhile now but slowly making her way to the charts. Her distinct voice is a relief from the Rebecca Black's of the world. Her melodious music is heavily guitar based which is why I love her. No auto-tune in sight! It's hard to believe that she's only 21 years-old because Laura's lyrics sound like a Sylvia Plath poem! I would love to see her with her frequent band mates Mumford and Sons live in concert.

Her new album "A Creature I Don't Know" is to be released on September 13.  

Buzzworthy Music Tuesdays: August 23

Amy Winehouse

    It’s officially been a month since Amy Winehouse past away. We still don’t know what she passed away off expect to say that the toxicology report was inclusive (which generally means there are too many substances in the system). I’ve been listening to her music non-stop while sadly thinking what a tragedy it is that we only have 2 full albums from this artist. I went to an Amy Winehouse Tribute and all the girls were dressed in their best eyeliners and beehives. She is gone, but not forgotten.



Here is her stunning voice on Valerie.

Buzzworthy Music Tuesdays: August 16

Semisonic "Closing Time" 

    After seeing Friends With Benefits, this song has been in my head ALL WEEK. It’s a 90's goodie that was overplayed. Now listening to this song, just simply reminds me of being younger but not in a good way. *Cringe 90's Fashion* 

    Too bad this band didn’t have any other hits. They definitely had the potential to break out and be like Third Eye Blind or Foo Fighters. Oh well, let us enjoy the one hit wonder given to us.

Buzzworthy Music Tuesdays: Aug 9th

The Head & The Heart

  

    I discovered this fantastic Seattle indie band from the MySpoonful website. I've been in love ever since I heard lead singer's Josiah Johnson deep yet scratchy voice. Their soft and soulful vocals provide a mesmerizing sound to the background of folk music.

     I was never a fan of folk music until I heard Glen Hansard poor his heart out in Once. I always thought it use to sound either depressing, boring, or like country music. How wrong I was! Folk music snuck into my bones and shook the very essence of what I understood music to be. *Wow, exaggerate much, Chris?* Music isn't Top 40. It took me years to comprehend this. To listen to a simple guitar and a sincere voice is literally music to my ears. To think I use to listen to Danity Kane (ONLY for 5 mins) and not be embarrassed! *Ugh, I can't believe I just said that!*

 

Buzzworthy Music Tuesdays: Aug 2nd

The Weeknd

    You may have heard the song on Entourage's final season commerical. This Toronto R&B singer is making a name for himself. His debut album dropped (House of Balloons) earlier this year to rave reviews. More impressive is that this 21-year-old singer released his album by himself without a record label. He's even sneaking up on remixes from that other Canadian, Drake. Take a listen below. With killer hooks and smooth beats, expect to see this guy in the future.

Buzzworthy Music Tuesdays: July 26th

Austra

    Nylon Mag is offering a Summer Playlist on iTunes that I highly recommend. IT'S FREE. Here's the link. Expires this Sunday. 

    On the playlist is Lose It by Austra. I've played this song REPEATLY. It's a catchy tune with easy lyrics. You might be saying "What is this? Electro pop/New Wave? Didn't I just see this girl running for the "L" train in Williamsburg?" Why yes is your answer to all! This song (by a Canadian band, eh) makes you want to bop your head, dance, and even do the forbidden fist pump. Take a second to open your ears to this insanely addictive song while watching their quirky video.