This was my second favourite after Barei's "Say Yay!". This was slated online, clearly they weren't expecting it to do so well. But this is a TUNE! Coming in at 10th with 181 points, Laura Tesoro did amazingly well for the opening act. I am an official fan now, and obviously she's a part of my Eurovision 2016 Special. No doubt she'll reappear on my blog some time in the future. Laura Tesoro asks What's The Pressure in this choreographed danced music video that is performed to perfection.
Laura Tesoro, actress, singer, dancer & presenter, and all just at 19 years old, is there anything she can't do? She is known for playing Charlotte in Flemish soap opera Familie. She also came second on The Voice van Vlaanderen (The Voice of Flanders) season three. Getting tenth in the Eurovision Song Contest isn't that bad, and she can definitely make a big impact globally if she keeps promoting worldwide. I am definitely a fan of hers! This song is very catchy, pretty much a mash up of Queen's "Another One Bites The Dust" and Fleur East's "Sax", it really works. The song was written by Sanne Putseys, Louis Favre and Birsen Uçar.
A total performance based music video, this is directed well. This is controlled and performed to perfection, Laura Tesoro is on form.
The choreography is performed on point by Laura Tesoro and her backing dancers, all in sync. However it's lacking in visualisation, engagement and technicality.
It fails to keep the audience interested. Regardless Laura Tesoro performs with amazing vibes, she clearly loves this song and recording the music video, and all the attention she is receiving.
Amazingly produced and performed. This is an all right music video that feels similar to Fleur East's "Sax" especially since the songs sound similar. Laura Tesoro is hot right now, and I'm sure she'll bring out another banger in the future that will have us all talking about her.
Malta has sent such a great entrant this year. Ira Losco was high on everyone's expectations, this song is a banger. She came 12th with only 153 points which is lower than what we expected, and now she's a part of my Eurovision 2016 Special. She returns to the contest after representing Malta in 2002, where she came second. This year clearly proved more difficult, but 12th is nothing to be snubbed at. And she just pushed more limelight her way, since she is already slightly an international star, this has definitely helped her career more so, especially being pregnant during the Grand Final. Ira Losco makes a perfect return to the contest as she Walks On Water in the beautiful island setting of Gozo.
Ira Losco, what to say about Ira Losco? She's gorgeously beautiful and is currently expecting a baby with her boyfriend Sean Gravina. She represented Malta in 2002 with song "7th Wonder", it pushed her into major fame and she has performed with a number of stars. She has earned a Midalja għall-Qadi tar-Repubblika (Medal of Service to the Republic) allowing her to use 'M.Q.R.' at the end of her name. She sent two songs to the Maltese national selection, and she won with "Chameleon", she wanted to improve Malta's chances at Eurovision, so suggested to sing a different song. "Walk On Water" was chosen at a later date. The song was written by Lisa Desmond, Tim Larsson, Tobias Lundgren, Molly Pettersson Hammar and Ira Losco.
The beautiful landscape is extremely visual, this is so gorgeous, I just want to be there and stand on the island of Gozo and see the beauty of it that I'm seeing in this music video. I'm going to have to visit one day!
Ira Losco performs perfectly, sultry, sexy she's a vision of beauty on beauty. Her different dresses are all weirdly gorgeous, they're unusually sexy and works perfectly with the song.
She's like an iconic star, and although she doesn't dance much, leaving it all to the dancer to explain the song through the art of contemporary dancing, it works well.
A vision of beauty on beauty, Gozo is a gorgeous place that I'd want to see one day. A perfect location for this emotional song. Ira Losco does a good job of it and performed it well at the Grand Final too.
An instant fan favourite, Hovi Star is next on my Eurovision 2016 Special. Already an established star in Israel, He finally achieved his dream, to grace the Eurovision stage and represent his country. He's vocally talented, stylishly fashionable, and is definitely the LGBT+ representative this year. The song is strong, but I always expect an amazing chorus and it's kind of lacking. This guy has conquered his dream, now it's time to be an international star, as he definitely has the voice for it. Hovi Star claims we're all Made of Stars in this LGBT+ anthem, whilst singing out to a number of drones in this music video.
Hovi Star, real name Hovav Sekulets, took part in Kokhav Nolad (meaning A Star Is Born), which is similar to 'Pop Idol' and it's spinoffs. He came seventh, then known as Hovi "Star" Sekulets, he launched a career and has rerecorded songs in Hebrew for well known films such as 'Frozen', 'Cinderella' and 'Inside Out'. He then competed in HaKokhav HaBa L'Eirovizion, based off the 'Raising Star' franchise, where the winner represents the country in the Eurovision Song Contest. This, Hovi Star won, which he is more than deserving. He came 14th in the Grand Final with 135 points. I'm sure this is not the last we've seen of Hovi Star. The song was written by Doron Medalie.
This music video shows off Tel Aviv in Israel, with the help of drones. It's a little weird that Hovi Star is singing to them, I presume they represent stars or people who are stars.
Hovi Star performs with so much emotion, he has clearly connected with this song and he performed just as well during the Grand Final as well as the Semi-Final.
There's not much to this video apart from Hovi Star serenading the drones that are both flying around him and following him. Nothing amazing but clear performance vibes. Hovi Star will be back, this is not the last we've seen of him!
With one rapper still on top of the UK Chart, Drake with "One Dance", which still doesn't have a music video yet; another rapper has entered the top 10. Desiigner is at number seven with this smash hit that has already conquered the US Billboard Chart. Panda is about Desiigner's affinity for the BMW X6, a confusing weird video with Kanye West appearing, what more can you want?
Desiigner, real name Sidney Selby III, is signed to Kanye West's label GOOD (Getting Out Our Dreams) Music after this song was released on Desiigner's YouTube and Soundcloud. Is this the start of Desiigner's amazing career as a rapper? Or will Panda just be a one-hit wonder, and he'll fade away like so many rappers before him? Panda was written by Sidney Selby III and Adnan Khan. The song has been sampled by Kanye West for two tracks on his album.
The video is directed by Paul Geusebroek. It contains many different scenes, some of which are difficult to follow. Not quite narrative-based and I surely hope this is not some sort of performance.
The selfie scene is an intricate scene as most people think Desiigner may be high. It captures his passion for this song in that scene more than anything, and kind of reminds me of Alexandra Stan's "Vanilla Chocolat" or Times Red's "Not Listening" because they both contain selfie scenes.
Kanye West appears as a friend throughout the music video, which is definitely expected since he was the one who signed him and sampled his track. However no sign of a real panda, and surely Desiigner is fully promoting the BMW X6 with both this song and it's music video.
A few shocking clips, like the panda painted on an ass that twerks, and Desiigner lying down on a bed whilst being touched up (he looks quite sexy here, not going to lie), him smoking, and the craziness of the rest of the video. It's hard to follow and difficult to understand. On the other hand, it's a typical music video for a rap song, identifiably relatable that way, for sure.
Coming 15th in the Eurovision Song Contest, Justs did pretty well for Latvia. This catchy song doesn't kick in until the chorus starts, but hearing it more than once definitely made me like it more, hence why it's a part of my Eurovision 2016 Special. Gaining 132 points, it's clear that Europe enjoyed his performance of the song. Justs sings his heart out to a girl who has him locked away, wish his heartbeat was beating for me and not her.
Justs, full name Justs Sirmais, hasn't had much of a musical career, winning Supernova (the Latvian national selection) was his first big step into the music industry. However he has had little glimpses, he has been in bands including TaxFree and Bunch of Gentleman, as well as providing vocals for hip-hop artist GACHO on about half the tracks on his album 'Smaids Līdz Ausīm'. This is his first solo single, and I'm sure it won't be his last. The song was written by Aminata Savadogo, who Latvia sent to Eurovision in 2015.
The performance-based music video is full emotion, that Justs packs in with his usual energetic vibes.
Much like his performance during both the Semi-Final and the Grand Final, Justs has the same jacket and the same vibes, this is clearly his freestyle moves and the way he interprets the song.
There's not much else to this, he's in love with the girl, who is cuddling him as well as locking him away in a room. His love interest watches him on TV monitors.
Overall the song is strong, with great vocals on a track that is definitely catchy, but what do we expect from Aminata? Justs performs well, but this is a typical performance from him, which gets old easily. His movement is chaotically stiff, but at least he is feeling the energy and emotion from the song.
My Eurovision 2016 Special continues with Azerbaijan, who has been sending amazing acts over and over again, especially after their win in 2011. This placed 17th in the Eurovision Song Contest with a respectable 117 points. Samra sings her heart out in this catchy song, full of emotion, she clearly means every word in this video for Miracle.
Samra, full name Samra Rahimli, first ventured into the music industry by appearing on O Ses Türkiye (The Voice of Turkey) where she got to the quarter finals in 2015. She next appeared on Səs Azərbaycan (The Voice of Azerbaijan).where she became a finalist. She was chosen by internal selection to represent the country in the Eurovision Song Contest 2016. Her vocals are stunning on this track, and I so hope she continues to release music because I definitely want to buy her future releases. The song was written by Amir Aly, Jakob "Jakke" Erixson, Henrik Wikström and Dom Amir.
The music video is a pure performance-based video, without much special effects apart from strobe lighting, which doesn't help to intrigue the audience all that much.
What does capture our attention is Samra's amazing acting, she has totally connected to the track. Although she didn't write it, the song has meaning to her.
The strobe lighting emphasises the chorus, it doesn't relate unless miracles come in beaming lights.
There's nothing else to this music video. Samra reminds me of me, if I could actually sing, I mean. Literally, I'd be singing into that microphone and I'd be giving the song all I've got, every hand movement and emotional face used at the artful moment in the lyrics. Samra does the exact same thing. She's singing this song to someone and boy does she mean business! I hope she gets to released more singles and hopefully an album, because this is one voice I want to hear more of.
Here comes Barei! This was an early favourite, and it is the song I spent most of my money on voting. Here Barei comes on to my Eurovision 2016 Special. I voted so much for this song, and it's good to know that it appeared on the UK public vote, so I helped. Unfortunately she followed Russia's entrant Sergey Lazarev who was the favourite to win, with his song "You Are the Only One". This totally faltered Barei in the voting, because Russia had a very visual performance, whereas Barei gave a great dance performance that was overshadowed by the previous contestant. She sadly only managed to get 77 points in the Grand Final, placing her 22nd. Catchy, upbeat and empowering, Spain sent Barei to Eurovision with this banger. Style on point, Barei tells you to Say Yay!
Barei, real name Bárbara González-Aller, is a star in the making. Her style is on point her vocals are electric, she's gorgeous, and if she doesn't become an international star in the next decade or so we will totally be missing out in the music world! She has released two albums and a number of singles. After winning the Spanish national selection Objetivo Eurovisión, she signed to Universal Music Spain, who re-released her album. Barei has star quality, she just needs the promotion to become an international star. Eurovision was a great platform for her, even if she did perform after the Russian entrant. The song was written by Barei, Rubén Villanueva and Víctor Púa Vivó. The song is all about not giving up, keep going, climb over those hills and follow your dreams. Definitely uplifting, it's a very encouraging song.
Directed by Gus Carballo, this video is such an amazing performance piece, showcasing to the world who Barei is and her style and her music. She replicated this perfectly in the Grand Final of Eurovision.
Clearly coming from a dance background, Barei shines throughout, using footwork which has recently became the in-thing to do in a club (the one dance move I can't pull off). Even the guys are getting on the dance floor and pulling these moves off!
The video also shows off the city streets of Spain, joining together different dancers who all come together with this song. I really want to visit Spain if people randomly just dance in the streets, that is my kind of place.
The middle is pulled off perfectly, when she falls down, she fell in the performance of the Eurovision Grand Final too. She gets back up and carries on, conquering those mountains and releasing her battle cry. Just like Orianthi sung in her song "Courage".
The ending is perfection. To have all the dancers perform in-sync with that technical footwork, where it's easy to go wrong, just proves how strong of a dancer Barei is as well as her backing dancers. She is a star, she just needs her fame now! But she's got me as a fan already, and I'm sure I'm not the only one!
If anyone's killing it recently, it's Anne-Marie, and this new summer hit is definitely one of my favourites from her. Staying cool and true to who she is, Anne-Marie is getting popular, fast. Her sound is unique, and she will be at Birmingham Pride 2016, and after this release, I won't be missing her on the stage! Anne-Marie describes the cheating alarm that rings through her head when she doesn't trust her boyfriend, beautifully replicated in this video.
Anne-Marie is hitting the charts with this song. She has already charted with "Do It Right" which gained traction months after it's release. She has collaborated with Rudimental and Wretch 32, both of which should've made the chart. Now her name is being thrown about, this is one girl who is confident in her music. Alarm will be her biggest hit to date, but definitely not the last!
The music video is directed by Malia James. It features three main characters: Anne-Marie, Romeo and Sirena (Romeo's conquest). It confuses me at the start though, because Romeo has a phone number on a piece of paper by Amelia, is that his ex? Who knows? But it's definitely not Sirena.
The video continues. Anne-Marie looks gorgeous, so stylish, she reminds me of Rita Ora in "Poison" purely because of how beautiful she looks in the video. She is stunning, especially compared to Sirena. What is Romeo thinking?
Typical love scenes happen that do make me jealous. I want that relationship, I had that relationship (for a week and a half, but I had it), and I miss being in that state of euphoria. It's a perfect portrayal, great acting skills from Anne-Marie and Romeo.
Romeo doesn't try hard to get Sirena. She doesn't look much of a conquest, and he seems pretty relaxed about it. The main scene seems like a drunken mishap; regardless of which, it is still significant, and would put alarm bells in Anne-Marie's head but it's something that can be looked past. There isn't enough emphasis on Romeo and Sirena together.
Anne-Marie performs amazingly, the narrative shows off her great acting skills, but what makes Anne-Marie more of a star is her performance of this song. It's such an emotional song and she pulls it off effortlessly, whilst looking stunning. Overall, brilliant performance with a great narrative. Anne-Marie is a star in the making! Watch out for her guys!
Bosnia & Herzegovina Entry: Dalal & Deen Featuring Ana Rucner & Jala - Ljubav Je
May 19, 2016
Critic Jonni
0 Comments
My Eurovision Special welcomes Deen back to the Eurovision Song Contest! He returns after an 11 year gap, only this time he is joined by amazing vocalist Dalal, brilliant cellist Ana Rucner and hip-hop artist Jala. This was one of my favourites this year, and I'm sad to see it just missed out. It came 11th in the first Semi-Final with 104 points. Dalal & Deen show emotion throughout in Ljubav Je, with the help of the amazing cellist Ana Rucner. Jala adds a new flavour to the mix that feels out of place in the video and the song.
Dalal & Deen team up for this song. Dalal, real name Dalal Midhat-Talakić, has had an all right solo career, her achievement was performing "Amazing Grace" at a concert for Pope Francis. She is one half of duo Erato, who have released two albums. As for Deen, real name Fuad Backović, he represented Bosnia & Herzegovina back in 2004 with "In The Disco", where he placed ninth overall. Deen looks totally different 11 years on, but his vocals have improved even more so, although this song didn't make the Grand Final, it'll be one I will remember. Featuring on the song is Ana Rucner who is one of Croatia's most successful performers. Jala, real name Jasmin Fazlić, has had a successful hip-hop career, releasing three albums both under Jala and Jala Brat, as well as two EPs. He is the founding member of BluntBylon and music studio Red Eye Vision. A song that infuses four different styles of music, and it almost completely works, but Jala doesn't quite fit as much as we all hoped he would. He's rap is better in the studio version than live on stage. The song was written by Almir Ajanović and Jasmin Fazlić Jala. It is sung in Bosnian and the title means Love Is.
The music video is performance based, fully traditional. It represents Bosnia & Herzegovina beautifully.
Dalal & Deen shine throughout, their vocals are on point, from their vantage point, they are watching Ana Rucner below, and later Jala, when he steps in.
Ana Rucner is mesmerising, she's technically amazing, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who's awe-stuck by her and her cello. Ana Rucner out does herself in this song, let alone this music video. It didn't quite transfer perfectly on stage, but that may have been Jala's fault.
He's lyrics are good, it just changes the tempo of the song. He doesn't look like he fits in the music video that well either, a total opposite to the cello, that probably always works well behind the scenes, but visually it's not something you would expect. He switches the song which makes it more interesting, without Jala it would have been just another ballad in this competition.
Overall an intricate traditional music video, that definitely is enlightening, opening the viewers into the world of Boznia & Herzegovina, who probably have a lot more to show us, which they no doubt will if they ever win the Eurovision Song Contest. A great performance piece to a strong song.
Agnete shocked us all in the second Semi-Final with this song. This is my next review for my Eurovision 2016 Special, and boy is this a catchy song, or two. The song changes beat and pace during the chorus, suggesting two different songs have been put together, awkwardly interesting, this should've have made the final, especially with Agnete's amazing voice. Being an icebreaker and destroying the mould of regular pop songs, Agnete is a powerhouse in this performance music video.
Agnete, full name Agnete Johnson, is famously known as the lead singer of The BlackSheeps, who won Melodi Grand Prix Junior 2008, where their song "Oro jaska, beana" shot to number one on the Norway chart. They then competed in Melodi Grand Prix 2011, where they came second. They went their separate ways later in the year. In 2014 she took part in Skal Vi Danse? (the Norwegian version of Strictly Come Dancing/Dancing With The Stars), in which she won. She then went on to compete in Melodi Grand Prix 2016, which she also won. Unfortunately she only got 63 points in the second Semi-Final, however following the soon-to-be winner, Ukraine's Jamala, was obviously not the easiest thing to do. However with a voice like Agnete's and a clear passion to make it in the music industry, I'm sure this won't be the last time we've heard from Agnete. This song was written by Agnete Johnson, Gabriel Alares and Ian Curnow.
Directed by Elle Marja Eira, the video is a simple performance piece. Agnete is dressed all in white, fading into the ground which is definitely a beautiful icy landscape.
There is a few intercutted scenes that include a dancer. not quite freestyling to the lyrics. Definitely contemporary dancing that intricately links well with the song.
The snowy theme captures the icy lyrics of Icebreaker. Agnete's strong vocals are followed by an equally strong performance that was definitely replicated during the second Semi-Final, but with Jamala singing "1944" just before Agnete, this one was bound to look unemotional.
Overall an average music video for this song, with not much going on. Regardless, it's effortless and beautiful, much like Agnete. This impacts the music industry as a whole. This song is definitely the first of many that will be slaying the charts in the future. Agnete may just be ahead of her time.
Sandhja was the entrant for Finland this year, and is next on my Eurovision 2016 Special. Finland's answer to Kiesza, I was expecting this to do well, but her vocals wasn't quite on point on the night and the song was was easily forgotten during the first Semi-Final. With a score of 51 points, placing her 15th, Sandhja didn't have much chance. However I liked the song, hence why it's on my blog. Sandhja gives a memorable performance in this music video for Sing It Away, featuring great backing dancers and a visual narrative.
Sandhja, full name Sandhja Kuivalainen, has already established a fan base in Finland, with two studio albums already released, she is making her own impact. Sandhja has Indian roots and she flew out to Guyana and Jamaica for inspiration on her second album, that was released last month. This competition has given her some international exposure, even if the song didn't make the Grand Final. Sandhja won the Finland national selection through Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2016.placing first in the jury vote and third in the public vote. The song was written by Sandhja, Milos Rosas, Heikki Korhonen, Petri Matara and Markus Savijoki.
Released under her vevo account, Sandhja's music video is mainly performance-based. Taking place in a children's playground park, where Sandhja shows her club dance moves whilst surrounded by a group of backing dancers, much like she was during the Semi-Final.
Sandhja has a classic performance vibe about her, definitely reminding me of Kiesza's "Hideaway". She looks great and the song is definitely catchy, the video and the song has girl power vibes throughout.
The short narrative scenes suggest that you should let your imagination go wild, and that dreams do come true. The child who is drawing a picture of a horse and a rider, is then seen in the future riding a horse.
The video is inspiring and teaches kids to go after what they want in life, and not let anyone get in their way. Just Sing It Away.
Overall a great performance piece, that should've been replicated well at Eurovision, but coming on first didn't help all that much and her nerves unfortunately got the better of her. The narrative side is short but inspiring. I can't wait to hear more from Sandhja.
Well I thought Joe and Jake hadn't released a video, but guess I was wrong. I always review the UK entrant to the Eurovision Song Contest for my Eurovision Special so that I am not just choosing my country over other countries. Honestly, this is a grower of a song, but on the night, the nerves clearly got the better of them, failing to capture the audience the way we all expected them to do. Performing in front of '200 million people' (according to Måns Zelmerlöw), clearly got the better of them. As for the music video... Joe and Jake perform You're Not Alone whilst a wall of lights change colour. Jake Shakeshaft is stiff and unrelaxed as Joe Woolford totally out performs the song. This duo look more alone than together.
These two formed a duo after competing in the fourth series of The Voice UK. Joe Woolford was on Team Rita Ora and got to week two of the live shows. As for Jake Shakeshaft, he was on Team will.i.am, where he was eliminated during the knockouts. They paired up and entered Eurovision: You Decide, where they won the UK national final, not that there was much of a choice. They were a clear favourite, but this song is a total grower, not for Eurovision unless you are going to promote it and give a brilliant visual performance, which didn't happen on the night. The song was written by Matt Schwartz, Justin J. Benson and S. Kanes.
The music video is a pure performance piece. They don't work that well as a duo, their on-stage presence is either too much from Joe Woolford or not enough in the case of Jake Shakeshaft. They don't mesh at all, and the ending looks completely awkward.
Joe Woolford is a natural performer, however he totally is trying too hard. He's loving every minute of the music video and everything that goes with being part of Eurovision.
Jake Shakeshaft just looks like he's embarrassed, he's not sure he wants to be here, let alone sing this song for Eurovision. He hides behind his guitar in the opening of the video, and even when he puts the guitar on his back, he's not as involved as he should be.
Overall this is a slight improvement on the Grand Final performance they did last Saturday, but this wouldn't have helped them get a better result. It's an all right effort, but considering what the rest of the world is sending for Eurovision, with great promotion, the UK needs to pull something out of the bag.
Chart Mondays: DJ Snake Featuring Bipolar Sunshine - Middle
May 16, 2016
Critic Jonni
0 Comments
With Drake's "One Dance" still at number one in the UK and still without an official music video, the top 10 is available for my Chart Mondays' review. This is currently at number 10 on the UK chart, and with Justin Timberlake's "Can't Stop The Feeling" set to top the charts next Friday, I thought I'd review this music video. What a mistake that was, because this is absolutely brilliant, and might have me writing for days! DJ Snake and Bipolar Sunshine give a brilliant music video for Middle, with actor Josh Hutcherson and actress Kiersey Clemons giving a superhero portrayal of love and hurt, how can you not love this video?
DJ Snake, real name William Grigahcine, has had hit single after hit single. He produced Lady Gaga's album 'Born This Way', which earned him a Grammy nomination. He is definitely the one to watch in music lately and I'm pretty sure we will be seeing a lot more of this global sensation. He also has a sneaky role in this music video. Bipolar Sunshine, real name Adio Marchant, is an upcoming English singer who's name is certainly being used quite often. However maintaining popularity isn't always an easy thing to do. His singles have charted in the UK, nothing of impact, just yet. Surely this song would've helped. The song was written by William Grigahcine, Aaron Kleinstub and Adio Marchant.
A Colin Tilley directed music video, it's no wonder it's so good. As mentioned above, the actor Josh Hutcherson plays the superhero and the actress Kiersey Clemons plays the love interest.
Our main character feels lost and alone, he doesn't quite fit in the world we live in. He stretches his imagination out into his reality, making himself a superhero, who still doesn't fit in.
He comes across a girl who is dressed as a superheroine, suggesting she has the same feelings as he does; not quite fitting in society. They join up and stretch their imagination together; flying through the streets, climbing walls, as well as bedroom entertainment.
The next morning, she's gone. He searches for her, but can't find her. At this point he passes DJ Snake on the street in a surreal scene. He gets to a sidewalk that tells him not to cross, and in a suicide attempt, or maybe just an attempt at flying that goes wrong, he crashes into a taxi. And guess who's in the back, it's Kiersey Clemons with her boyfriend, not dressed up as a superheroine.
Hurt and betrayed, Josh Hutcherson is all alone and in a lot of pain from the crash. Kiersey Clemons returns at the end, helping him to heal.
It's a great story about being lost in the world, but having someone who is lost with you, that's true love, but there's also a perfect betrayal that you don't really expect. Yet, as usual, the guy is ready to take the girl back. Boy has she got some explaining to do.
A brilliant narrative of a music video, that relates perfectly and effortlessly with the song. Two very well-known actors too, with this on rotation on the music channels, it's not surprising this song got in the top 10 of the UK chart.
A typical Eurovision song that definitely should've made the final, but it all went wrong. With only 33 points in the first Semi-Final, Lidia Isac's music video for Falling Stars is my next video to review for my Eurovision 2016 Special. This was a good song with a good performance. However on stage, with Lidia Isac, was an astronaut, which is a definite no-no when it comes to Eurovision. Lidia Isac gives a great performance of Falling Stars in this music video, going with a plain theme and a simple visual.
Lidia Isac has been competing in Moldova's national finals for the past four years, finally succeeding in 2016. Previously she entered either as a solo singer or as a duo in group Glam Girls. This amazing vocalist should definitely have made the final of Eurovision, if it weren't for that astronaut. End of the day, she has stunning vocals, and definitely deserved to win O Melodie Pentru Europa 2016, just a shame she didn't make the Grand Final. With strong vocals, and her desire to work in music, I'm sure this won't be the last we hear of Lidia Isac. Maybe she'll take another shot at representing Moldova, she certainly has the voice to do well in the competition. The song was written by Gabriel Alares, Sebastian Lestapier, Ellen Berg and Leonid Gutkin.
The music video has no substance to it, her strong vocals are complemented by a strong performance that she definitely displayed during the first Semi-Final, however there's no sign of an astronaut in this video.
Slightly more understanding, this video is a pure performance piece that includes falling star confetti, which definitely links in with the song.
No more visuals, Lidia Isac does the best she is given with, much like on the day of the first Semi-Final. There was nothing more she could do in this video or on the Eurovision stage. Hopefully, she'll make a much deserved comeback, because with a voice like that, who needs theatrics?
Have I just watched some Sia promotional video? This certainly isn't anything professionally official, and yet is is classed as the official music video for the Switzerland Entry into the Eurovision Song Contest, which came 18th in the second semi-final with only 28 points. Actually a really nice song, but the performance totally let itself down. Rykka performs side-on during this emotional song that is not portrayed visually at all, but is definitely better performed than her Eurovision performance, although visually it isn't.
Kicking off my Eurovision 2016 Special is Rykka, real name Christina Rieder. She comes from Canada, and originally released acoustic folk music under her real name, She soon developed a taste for pop music and Rykka was born. She is on a new path now and although she failed at Eurovision, it may not be the last time we see her, clearly she's a trier, and triers always come on top, eventually. The song is about standing for love at the end of the world. It was written by Christina Maria Rieder, Mike James, Jeff Dawson and Warne Livesey.
This music video is completely bland. Rykka stands out purely because there is nothing else in the video, just black space.
Rykka is put on a spotlight, but there's nothing to watch because she isn't even looking at the camera, and as for performance vibes, they are aimed the wrong way.
There is just nothing to this, nothing for me to comment on, and I am pretty sure Rykka is a much better performer than she is in this music video. She showcased that during the Semi-Finals, apart from her awkward knee-bending that made no sense whatsoever. However, great song that would've done well if not for the performance of the song.
New Release: CAZZETTE & AronChupa Featuring The High - She Wants Me Dead
May 13, 2016
Critic Jonni
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This is one massive collaborative effort, not only is CAZZETTE joining forces with AronChupa and The High, they also join forces with Hello There Games. This is not the first time an artist has worked with this gaming company, they follow in the footsteps of Avicii, who released 'Avicii | Gravity', however switching it up entirely making a whole dramatic music video which is more like a prologue to the game. CAZZETTE, with the help of AronChupa and The High gives this entertaining music video for She Wants Me Dead, featuring a survival rhythmic game of the same name.
CAZZETTE is a Swedish musical duo consisting of Alexander Björklund and Sebastian Furrer. Friends with Avicii, they have toured and performed with the DJ. Attempting to make an impact with their own music, already slightly known in their home country, their music is ready to hit the world. They just need much more promotion. AronChupa, real name Aron Ekberg, gained prominence in 2014 with his song "I'm An Albatraoz" which topped the Swedish chart as well as peaking at number 25 here in the UK. His follow-up singles didn't fare so well. He is one fifth of band Albatraoz, who are part of Byttorps IF, which is a fourth division professional football club. Music is a side project as they all focus on their football careers. As for the featured artist, The High, I can't find any information whatsoever, apart from The High being a UK vocalist. If anyone knows anything more than that about The High, please let me know below. The song overall is catchy, definitely something I would listen to over and over again. Quite reminiscent of a few songs, especially "Tom's Diner" by Suzanne Vega & DNA.
The video is a fully narrative animation piece that is in almost total black and white. The video has segments of the game shown in certain scenes, allowing the viewers to see actual game footage.
Lula is our main character, she is a cat who is not happy with the way her owner, Max, is treating her. Pushing her off the bed, spilling toothpaste on her face, not letting her eat the goldfish. So Lula hacks a plan to get her own back, she will kill Max. First she kills him when he wakes up, an axe to the head. Then she sends a missile to his apartment.
Lula is an eccentric. She has an extremely vivid imagination that we are clearly invited into. In theory the narrative has a weird ending, because Lula ends up killing Max twice from what we can see, even though she has many different plans.
I am not so keen on the black & white theme, however it goes with the game as the game wouldn't work in full colour. On the other hand it makes the music video and the game cheap and low budget, and although the low budget games are usually the best, this doesn't quite meet expectations.
As for the game itself, it's difficult to play, and gets more challenging in itself. A very unique idea, where the game changes to the beat of the music. Intricate and detailed, it totally works well. Very addicting and slightly aggravating, this will have you screaming with joy to get to a checkpoint, and throwing your phone when you have to start from the beginning again.
Overall a brilliant idea of a collaboration, the first music video prologue to a game I have come across that works amazingly as a promotion for the game, the song, the artists and the game developers. Great idea, great translation, dysfunctional narrative full of illusion with a double confusing ending.
Jennifer Lopez Featuring Jadakiss & Styles - Jenny From The Block
May 12, 2016
Critic Jonni
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Back to when J Lo was on top! Jenny From The Block is definitely her signature song. Another song and music video that hits back at the paparazzi and how they can change a star, especially since celebrities can't do normal things because photographers are following them everywhere. Many artists have done songs and videos in reference to this, so I'm not surprised that J Lo has done one too. Jennifer Lopez gives us an insight into her life, showing she has no privacy. No matter what she'll always be Jenny From The Block.
Jennifer Lopez was at the height of her career at this point, hitting track after hit track. She still hasn't released a Greatest Hits album, although she definitely needs one as there are many amazing singles in her collection. Although this song only got to number three, here in the UK, it's still recognised as one of her biggest singles, purely because no one else can cover the song unless they themselves are also called Jenny. The song samples many other songs which are "Heaven And Hell Is On Earth" by 20th Century Steel Band, "South Bronx" by Boogie Down Production as well as "Hi-Jack" by Jose Fernando Arbex Miro, this caused controversy because The Beatnuts also used "Hi-Jack" on their song "Watch Out Now" and they believe their sample of "Hi-Jack" was used. They received royalties for this song. This is why there is a lot of song writers, who are: Jennifer Lopez, Troy Oliver, Mr. Deyo, Samuel Barnes, Jean Claude Olivier, Jose Fernando Arbex Miro, Lawrence Parker, Scott Sterling, Michael Oliver, David Styles and Jason Phillips. The latter two are the rappers who are featured on the track, they are mostly known from the band The LOX.
The video was directed by Francis Lawrence. It has Ben Affleck as the love interest, who was Jennifer Lopez's fiancé at the time. They were known by media as Bennifer, and they broke off their engagement citing the media interest as the main reason.
This entire video shows that they didn't have any privacy in their relationship, no matter what they did, the media knew what they were doing. This has been the case with lots of stars and they hit out through music and the videos, just look at Britney Spears' "Piece of Me", "Everytime" and "I Wanna Go".
The performance side to the video, works perfectly, Jennifer Lopez definitely knows how to perform, which goes without saying, she would be amazing to see live.
Overall an impactful music video that covers something that will always be an issue. It accompanies the song well, but it doesn't stand out, we've seen J Lo with much better videos. A signature song, with a signature scene and a common theme, that we've seen a lot of already.
After reviewing Sofia Carson's "Love Is The Name", how can I not review Dove Cameron's cover single? Singing the amazing debut single from Christina Aguilara "Genie In A Bottle" will always be one of my childhood songs, now Dove Cameron has released it to a new generation. Playing her 'Descendants' character, Mal, daughter of Maleficent; Dove Cameron becomes a genie in a bottle, in this magically induced music video.
Dove Cameron is one of a few new Disney stars who will become part of the next batch of Disney superstars! On the tails of Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers; Dove Cameron has been trying to kickstart her music career whilst doing well on the Disney Channel. She is mostly known for playing Liv and Maddie in the show of the same name. She is also one half of The Girl and the Dreamcatcher. She is currently filming the fourth season to 'Liv and Maddie' and plans on being in 'Descendants 2', which I am so excited about. This song is a cover of the Christina Aguilera hit of the same name, written by David Frank, Steve Kipner and Pamela Sheyne.
Directed by Jay Martin, this music video coincides with 'Descendants: Wicked World' animated series. It includes the famous Aladdin lamp.
Mal gets swept up inside the lamp after she rubs it. Mal explores and is transformed into this beautiful Genie. The love interest is quite sinister, hiding in the shadows.
The dancing and choreography is on point through-out, Dove Cameron shines, she is a perfect performer and the spotlight is on her.
The ending doesn't reveal the love interest and leaves a few questions unanswered. But it works nonetheless.
An innocent music video for a not-so-innocent song, that children are too innocent to understand. It wasn't until I was older that I realised how sexualised this song was, and I had been singing Christina Aguilera's version since I was six years old. Great production piece overall, works well with the film and the series, and I cannot wait for 'Descendants 2', just hope it's not too long of a wait.
P!nk is back with a whole new track that I have fallen in love with. I used to be a massive P!nk fan, but after her most recent album, I went totally off her. Personally, I believe she went down the wrong path and released an album that wasn't her at all. However artists are meant to grow and learn from their mistakes, even if that album and it's corresponding singles did well globally. Now she's recorded a song for the new film 'Alice Through The Looking Glass' and I can't wait to see what path it takes her down, hopefully it's not a rabbit hole. P!nk inspires her inner Alice and the Mad Hatter in this music video for the feature film. Just Like Fire is a perfect representation of the film and the song.
P!nk, real name Alecia Moore, most recently became a part of a duo called You + Me with Dallas Green, who is known under the stage name City and Colour as well as one of the members of rock band Alexisonfire. Now she's back releasing her own music, has her style changed with her new songs once again? Will she make me a fan of her music again? Well, if her new music is anything like this then I might just reinvest in her albums! Just Like Fire was written by Alecia Moore, Max Martin, Karl Johan Schuster (Shellback) and Oscar Holter.
Directed by Dave Meyers, the music video takes place in P!nk's home, where's she's just hanging around whilst keeping an eye on her child, Willow Sage Hart. Her husband, Carey Hart, comes in to ask if she's going to hang around all day. To which P!nk clearly ignores that and continues to silk dance.
P!nk's daughter, Willow, takes an active role in this, she follows the blue butterfly through the mirror, and just like a great parent P!nk follows her through into the mystical world of Wonderland.
She walks into a chess like game where P!nk clones are the actual chess pieces, the game is confusing, but what part of Wonderland isn't confusing? P!nk looks amazing in this visual shot, perfect costume and amazing hair, as always. A slightly freaky scene that must've taken forever to make and edit.
Naturally the mad hatters tea party makes an appearance. She could pull off being his wife so easily. Then she falls but stops mid-air whilst Time keeps an eye on her. He goes and talks to Willow, which makes P!nk fight to be let down, a mother's instinct. Intricate images and clips are used next, from both the film and from P!nk being sent to a mad house.
A great ending, with a magical middle and a brilliant opening. P!nk shines throughout, showing off her performance skills and on-stage presence. An amazing song and music video for Alice Through The Looking Glass. We all had hoped for an Avril Lavigne follow-up to "Alice", but this does it justice! A perfect, faultless music video.
The new batch of Disney stars is upon us, with the helping hand of amazing Disney film Descendants which is already in talks of a sequel, two stars are to hit the music industry hard. Dove Cameron and Sofia Carson are the next Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez. Amazing actresses, singers and all round performers, they're the ones who will be topping the charts all over the world in the next decade or so. Watch out for them both. Sofia Carson is the first on the scene with this typical summer tune, singing on point, dancing on point, and looks on point, this gorgeous girl will go far!
Sofia Carson's big break was as Evie in Disney's 'Descendants', she plays The Evil Queen's daughter and has been confirmed for the sequel to be released next year. I fell in love with the film from the get-go, magical performances, amazing songs and great acting, even my parents loved the film, and that's saying something since they don't like musicals/ It was directed and choreographed by Kenny Ortega, who did 'Dirty Dancing', 'Hocus Pocus' and 'High School Musical'. Sofia Carson has many other roles lined up in the future, and I'm excited to see her turn up in many more films and tv shows. She's a star in the making, so it's not surprising that Hollywood Records and Republic Records signed her up on a joint worldwide record deal. This is her first single since signing, written by Steve Mac, Ina Wroldsen, Ewald Pfleger, Guenter Grasmuck, Peter Niklas Gruber, Herwig Tremschnig and Kurt Plisnier, the song interpolates Opus' "Live Is Live". Very catchy, this is the song that gets stuck in my head easily, definitely a hit, a great first single. An exclusive version was also released featuring J Balvin.
The video was directed by Brandon Bonfiglio, a pure performance piece that definitely makes Sofia Carson centre of attention, beautifully styled and looking gorgeous she is definitely the next Disney star.
A lot of accomplished choreography in this music video, that is performed effortlessly. Sofia Carson puts all her effort in this music video, as if she is back on Descendants.
The solo performance pieces are beautifully done although Sofia Carson looks slightly uncomfortable attempting to look sexy. Her red dress fades into the red background which definitely doesn't help matters.
Overall a polished performance based music video. Sofia Carson is definitely one to watch as she gains more and more popularity. A great song that is ever-so catchy with a glossy music video, entertaining and lovely filled with heart hands throughout. I can't wait to see what the future brings for her.
Recently released, this just puts J Lo back on the music radar. Jennifer Lopez is back! But is she here to stay, that is the main question. She's forever dipping in and out of music like dolphins porpoising in water. She releases hit after hit and then takes a break. She has taken up a residency at The Axis auditorium located in the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, where Britney Spears' residency 'Piece of Me' is, in Las Vegas. Titled 'All I Have', the first leg, consisting of ten dates, were completely sold out. This song is extremely catchy. Jennifer Lopez sports different looks and characters in this upbeat video for Ain't Your Mama. A women empowerment theme, dancing, acting and visually amazing, this video has it all.
Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
Jennifer Lopez is probably the only artist I know of who has had a music career spanning more than a decade and not released a greatest hits album. Amassing an amazing amount of global hits, this singer needs to release a greatest hits album filled with all her high charting singles. Instead she just comes back stronger and harder every time, with perfect songs that impacts the charts around the world. This song, however, has yet to chart in the UK, but with the video just being released, and the slow popularity on radio, it might be a brilliant climber. This song was written by Meghan Trainor, Lukasz Gottwald, Jacob Kasher Hindlin, Henry Walter, Theron Thomas and Gamal Lewis. Completely sassy the song is about men finding their girl incredibly sexy at the start of the relationship and then expecting them to do everything for them further down the line.
Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
The song caused controversy when released with many Kesha fans urging people to boycott its release. The problem comes from the song being written and produced by Dr. Luke. If you don't know about the Kesha vs. Dr. Luke court case then surely you've been hiding under a rock. The song was written and recorded in 2014 by Meghan Trainor and planned for her debut album 'Title', however it didn't make the cut. Two years down the line, Meghan Trainor gave it to Jennifer Lopez. Dr. Luke was not involved in J Lo's version, but has to be credited as he was part of the original. Regardless of this, it's an amazing song and was definitely made for Jennifer Lopez, her vocals work perfectly for this, I can't imagine Meghan Trainor singing this, but would like to hear how different it is.
Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
The music video was directed by Cameron Duddy, both performance and narrative, Jennifer Lopez stuns us as six different characters, all with their own style inspired by different eras. It reminds me slightly of "Papi", and is added to her collection of amazing music videos. There is frequent product placement throughout, just like Avril Lavigne's "What The Hell", it's quickly becoming normal within music videos. Vogue magazine, Beluga vodka and Lavazza coffee are some of the most obvious.
Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
Jennifer Lopez starts off as a news anchor, she's in a phone booth having a heated conversation. Next she's at the desk, ready to give a special announcement, whilst Hilary Clinton's 'Women's Rights Are Human Rights' speech is heard followed by Patricia Arquette's Academy Award speech and finally Gloria Steinem's 'Address to the Women of America' speech. She then tells the women at home to get out of their seats and shout out the window 'I Ain't Your Mama'.
Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
Various characters are then shown. She plays 1950's house wife, a secretary, a factory worker and a 1980's business woman. Lastly she is shown wearing her thigh-high boots by Rihanna for Manolo Blahnik, gifted to her by the Barbadian singer.
Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
The final scene is my favourite, Jennifer Lopez dances with a group of women pulling off complex choreography proving that she can sing, dance and act, Reminiscent of "Papi", only with a group of women instead of men.
Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
Jennifer Lopez is the epitome of a triple threat, a trifecta. However it comes at a consequence. She has established herself in singing, dancing and acting, but she isn't on top in any of those areas. But no one can deny that she is on form. J Lo is back, she's still "Jenny From the Block", but she's the triple threat you don't want to clash with. I expect to see 'Ain't Your Mama' climbing up the UK chart soon enough.
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