If there's one song on the radio that keeps capturing my attention, it's this one. It's full of so much positive energy, enough to make me love the song, that I'm glad to hear something so loving and positive being played often. Robbie Williams has always been someone I haven't been keen on, and then being a student in Stoke-on-Trent - his hometown - had me disliking him more as they blasted out his songs in clubs. I just can't dance to any of his songs, no thank you! Anyhow, this one is a grower of a song, and I'm not the only one turning to liking the song. As for the video, it's another one that throws shade to paparazzi. Robbie Williams walks on the beach and on the road surrounded by girls with cameras shooting his every look, mood, and move, in this video for "Love My Life".
Robbie Williams is one of the biggest UK male artists in the country. He has several number ones under his belt and is constantly popping up on TV. He was originally a part of boy band Take That, before pursuing a solo career. He has made his name with so many songs, that it's a surprise he never made it big in the US. He is totally a household name, and his success is unbelievable, but considering how catchy most of his hits are, it isn't all that surprising. This is his new song, it was previously sung on The X Factor a few weeks ago, but it didn't chart so well. However, with extended radio play and the catchiness of the song, it has been climbing. The song was written by Robert Williams, Fiona Davies, and Johnny McDaid.
There isn't a lot going on in the music video, and there certainly isn't much to it. People have suggested that the budget was blown on his previous music video, "Party Like A Russian", and so it's not a surprise that this one has a low budget.
It was filmed at Leysdown Beach on the Isle of Sheppey. It's quite dreary and wet which exactly explains the British weather.
There's various girls surrounding him as he walks along the beach and the road. The camera switches from one girl to another. At times the footage is blocked by another girl, filming. At other times, Robbie Williams isn't singing whatsoever, which suggests they haven't got good footage of that particular lyric.
As a whole, it feels like a total low-budget music video, one that college students would make. I have actually seen better college student music videos. This is slow and boring, and Robbie Williams doesn't look like he is loving his own life, especially at that moment. He's slightly rigid performing this song, maybe he's freezing on Leysdown Beach; it does look cold. Either way, he should still look like he's having a great time.
As for the girls, they imply what his life is like. Everyone has a camera nowadays. He can't go anywhere without being snapped. It's been his life since he was young, yet he is loving it nonetheless. It may have tainted him in the past, but, now as a much older man, he has learned from his mistakes and he loves where he is now. Such a positive song that I'm glad it's getting the recognition it deserves. I just wish there was a much better music video.
Why is it that every time this Friday comes around, usually the last Friday of the year, there is no new releases? How am I supposed to write a music video review on a new release, when no songs are released. It has taken me all day to find this one, and the song has been out as part of an EP for months, but the music video is new, so it counts in my world. This group first came to my attention due to Disney's Descendents Christmas Holiday EP, where they contributed a Christmas song. Since then I've been aware of their music. I think I kind or remember them on The X Factor (US) but I'm not so sure. They have released an EP and various singles. In this music video for "Compass", Forever In You Mind perform in a forest. Looking cute and sexy with their amazing vocals, they prove that they deserve to be in the music industry.
Forever In Your Mind are a three-piece boy band consisting of Emery Kelly, Ricky Garcia, and Liam Attridge. They were formed on The X Factor (US), back then Jon Klassen was a part of the group, but he left the band and was replaced by Liam Attridge. They made a name for themselves by mixing up songs in a medley; most famously they mixed up Disney Channel songs, which was later included on a Disney Channel album. They recently released their debut EP, and it looks like they are gaining quite a popular fan base. I cannot wait for what the future will bring for them. This song, "Compass", may seem quite simplistic, but the guys manage to fill it with passion and add perfect power and gorgeous harmonies. Forever In Your Mind will be part of a new Disney Channel TV series for 2017, titled "Forever Boys". Could they be the next Jonas Brothers?
The music video isn't anything massively entertaining. As much as we all wanted the guys to be in sailor outfits heading out to sea, much like the song suggests; the visual has chosen to be more performance-based, allowing Forever In Your Mind to show off their stage presence.
They obviously gel well as a group, and they certainly get on, but that could be due to Liam Attridge and Emery Kelly being cousins.
The group have fought to get to where they want to be, and it's probably been quite a fall not getting through to the live shows of The X Factor (US), but with the help of their fan base and Disney Channel, they will manage to prove their worth and the terrible mistake Simon Cowell made by letting this group go.
There's not a lot else to say about this. I would have preferred a more choreographed scene, just to pull them closer together in their shots, and definitely a narrative. Yet, they show their energy and their ability to show their emotion for this song, it clearly means something to them. The future is definitely bright for Forever In Your Mind, and I cannot wait to see what they release next. I also hope their Disney Channel show becomes a success.
This is my revisit this week, although I found it extremely difficult to choose one of George Michael's old songs, mainly because there has been so many. I chose this one because I actually think this song is amazing, even if it is a cover version. This was definitely an iconic duet at the time, and it works so well. It's such a shame that George Michael has passed away, but his many hits will live on. Watch George Michael and Mary J. Blige perform in a club surrounded by doppelgängers, which version of themselves is actually them? This "As" music video is brilliant.
George Michael, real name Georgios Panayiotou, unfortunately, passed away on 25 December 2016. I reviewed "December Song (I Dreamed Of Christmas)" as a tribute to him, but thought I might as well review another of his as I have the chance. He's recent releases have done all right, but haven't been as much as a success as his early career was. He didn't release quite as much or as often as he used to, which is why I never really got into his music, you could say he was before my time. The same goes for the person who he collaborates with on this track; Mary J. Blige has had a lengthy solid career and is another star who has proved herself within the music industry. Much like George Michael, her recent releases haven't faired so well, although she has released a lot of music recently, which is a contrast to George Michael. This song was originally a Stevie Wonder song and first appeared on his album "Songs In The Key Of Life". It only charted in the US. It was this collaboration that brought the song success worldwide. It was written by Stevie Wonder.
Directed by Big TV!, which consists of film directors Andy Delaney and Monty Whitebloom. The video is amazingly thought out and must've taken quite some time to edit and create.
It's a performance based music video with a running narrative throughout. The start sees George Michael walking into a club. When he finally gets there, we see many doppelgängers of himself. This is my kind of club, I'd so be chatting up myself throughout the night.
When Mary J. Blige comes in, there is also a lot of doubles of herself too. It's impossible to keep track of the original them as they all each take a part, even in the background.
It's a total clever music video, especially as the dancing kicks off and with them sitting down. It's one of those videos you're more than likely going to miss something, and so on second watch, you see something new. There's not enough going on, they could've made it a little more interesting and relatable to the song, yet, visually wise, this is amazing!
Well, anyone who has followed my Eurovision Special would have realised that this is from the wrong year. The thing is Måns Zelmerlöw hasn't released an official music video to "Heroes"; unfortunately, there is only a lyric video available. So that left me a little unsure of what to do. Then I remembered Jamala had released this video for her winning entry from Eurovision 2016, and I've been trying to find the time to review it. So today is as good of a day as any, but the today is the best day because it totally completes all my Eurovision blog posts. Watch Jamala perform "1944" amongst an intricate contemporary dance that raises goosebumps and gives chills. Absolutely amazing.
Jamala, full name Susana Jamaladinova, has released a lot of songs and albums. She has really embedded herself as a confident professional singer with amazing vocal ability. It's not much of a surprise that she did well in the contest, and she managed to win it even when the top was very competitive. She won the Ukrainian national final, after initially tying with second place. She represented Ukraine and won with 534 points. Due to a change of the points system, this marks the highest score of the Eurovision Song Contest, ever. There was controversy over the fact that she won because Australia won the jury vote, and Russia won the public vote; Ukraine came second in both and with a combined total, Jamala won overall. The song also gained a lot of controversy due to the potential political content of the song, however the Eurovision Broadcasting Union looked into this and claimed that the song didn't contain any political speech and therefore ruled that the song doesn't break any of the Eurovision rules. Jamala's song tells a story and it really packs a punch, definitely a worthy winner in my books. The song was written by Art Antonyan and Susana Jamaladinova. The song is in English and Crimean Tatar.
Directed by Anatoliy Sachivko, who was also the choreographer for this video; the music video interprets all the emotion Jamala expresses into the song, into an emotional contemporary dance that completely flows and presents the song in the most beautiful way.
Jamala proves that she can dance too, throwing in her ability to perform this song with full emotion. The video was set an abandoned military base: Pamir. Which is on top of Tomnatik mountain.
The weather plays an important part of this music video, I love the rain effect on the camera, as well as the tornadoes that affect the people dancing.
It's all shot under an undue expectation of emotion. There's dark depths to this video and the visual shows it off perfectly. The choreography is amazing and all the dancers manage to stand out and prove their worth.
There's not much else left for me to say. It's quite a battle, one they obviously can't beat and yet they show a strength in unity. It's completely intricate and easily displays the emotions found in the song.
This one was just being played randomly on my iTunes today, and I loved it so much I HAD to see if there was a music video I could review today... And sure enough, here it is. This country duo has been making waves with their music and are quickly becoming an identifiable act within the country music genre. Watch Maddie & Tae perform on two floating chairs as scenes of sweet strength and independence flow throughout this video for "Fly".
Maddie & Tae are an American country duo consisting of Madison Marlow and Taylor Dye. They have so far released one album, one EP, and four singles. Their debut song "Girl in a Country Song" totally launched them in the country music world. This song was their follow-up single, but since then their chart positions have deteriorated. However, things could all change when they come back with a second album. These voices deserve their place within country music and it's no surprise that there is a buzz in the air around these two. This song was written by Taylor Dye, Madison Marlow, and Tiffany Vartanyan.
Directed by Brian Lazzaro, this music video really allows the viewers to identify with Maddie & Tae. They announce who they are and prove that they have beautiful voices to match their gorgeous good looks.
The video is a full sign of female empowerment. The girls encourage their viewers to keep climbing in the song, and that is exactly what is happening to the girl on the ladder, she keeps climbing. The woman who becomes a teacher keeps fighting for the career she wants and the girl on the swing saves herself from falling.
It's all wrapped up in scenes of Maddie & Tae writing the song. This shows complete strength and a love of what they are doing. They are having fun and a good time. There is also a butterfly that is super cute in this video too. Overall, this is neatly packaged, it's strong and it is fearless. It inspires people to keep going.
It's so sad to have heard that George Michael has passed away, on Christmas Day too! Unfortunately, I have already reviewed Wham!'s "Last Christmas", where George Michael was one-half of the duo, in my Christmas Special 2012. So I googled to see if he had released another Christmas song to finish off my Christmas Special 2016, and this one came up. It's a great vocal from George Michael, and it's sad to hear that this legend of a voice has gone from this world. He was also a brilliant gay idol and LGBT activist. This is the second George Michael animation music video; "December Song (I Dreamed Of Christmas)" easily represents the festive date as well as love and lights from a child's perspective.
George Michael, real name Georgios Panayiotou, is one of the biggest male artists in the world. Not only has he had his singles and albums in his duo Wham! but he also did amazingly solo and quickly became a legend. So many people know his songs that it's difficult just to think of one favourite from him. This song was another Christmas song he released recently, then he later performed it on The X Factor. The song was planned for the Spice Girls, but personally, I believe, it sounds so much better from George Michael himself. It charted at number 14 in the UK, but shops sold out of the physical CD so it could've charted higher if they had stocked up more. "December Song (I Dreamed Of Christmas)" was written by George Michael and David Austin.
As previously mentioned, the music video is George Michael's second animated music video, after "Shoot The Dog". It depicts George Michael as a child, who walks through a TV.
It describes a child's representation of Christmas, all wrapped up in quite a sad and lonely way. Since there is only a mother in the whole video, maybe he is thinking of his dad? Who knows?
Inside the TV, we watch him have a snowball fight with a panda, and ride some light bulbs that have wheels on. All the while, his mouse or hamster follows him with every step; mainly in a comedic way.
Towards the end, the child falls from a great height, but luckily he wakes up in his bed; there are presents under the tree, and his mother gives him a cuddle. It's quite dreary, and sad, although the reason why isn't clear. However, it's still quite adorable.
Another new Christmas song and this one is another joyous festive track, that spreads the Christmas spirit throughout everyone, so this had to be included on my Christmas Special 2016. Kelly Clarkson has always been one of those singers who would release a song I like, but then radio overplays it and I don't like it anymore, or even if they don't overplay it, I end up overplaying it and then not liking the song anymore. This only happens to her songs, and I don't get why this happens to me with her songs, all the time. This one is the exact same, but I can't help liking it because it's a jolly Christmas song. In this music video for "Underneath The Tree", watch Kelly Clarkson perform on her Christmas TV Special, while behind the scenes are cut throughout.
Kelly Clarkson hit fame when she won the first series of American Idol. Since then she has really set herself as one of the biggest female recording artists in the world. Recently, she hasn't been charting that well globally, although she manages to come back time and again with a hit first single from each album that she releases. This song is from her Christmas album and managed to hit number 30 in the UK. Since 2013, the song has received great radio play every Christmas, and the song is a favourite around Christmas time. The song was written by Kelly Clarkson and Greg Kurstin.
The music video was directed by Hamish Hamilton and Weiss Eubanks. It consists of Kelly Clarkson performing on her Christmas TV special titled "Kelly Clarkson's Cautionary Christmas Music Tale", which was shown on NBC.
She gives a stunning performance in a beautiful white and red dress, that is totally festive. She proves why she won American Idol all those years ago, she proves that her place in the world is on a stage, singing to people. Her voice is magnificent and this song manages to portray her vocal abilities.
As for the segments between her amazing performance, they're fun and cheeky, showing Kelly Clarkson's lightheartedness behind the scenes. She's clearly an easy person to get along with, and she has a brilliant attitude. Imagine being real life friends with Kelly Clarkson... That'd be the life, and you'll always have a good time when she's around.
Overall, it's great to see Kelly Clarkson on a stage performing. It's where she belongs. It's festive, it's fun, it's just a shame there isn't a narrative to incorporate the beautiful and meaningful song lyrics.
Back to the Christmas music videos for my Christmas Special 2016. This is a classic Christmas song that brings the festive cheer to everyone. I actually heard this song in the car today and thought it would be a great song to include in my Christmas Special 2016, and although the music video is dated compared to the others in my Christmas Special, it's always good to look at some classic Christmas music videos and songs. Watch Paul McCartney and his friends simply have a "Wonderful Christmastime" in this cheerful festive music video.
Paul McCartney is legendary. He made a name for himself as being one quarter of The Beatles, who are known as one of the most influential bands in pop history. The band gained international success, and their name is legendary in itself. Away from the band, Paul McCartney has gone on to be successful all by himself. Personally, I thought he was dated, until he collaborated with Rihanna and Kanye West, proving that he can still be commercially successful. "FourFiveSeconds" really showed that Paul McCartney can come out with a massive collaboration and chart well, once again. This Christmas song is jolly and totally festive. It was written by Paul McCartney; and has been covered by many famous artists.
Directed by Russell Mulcahy, this music video easily translates this happy song into a simple but wonderful visual, that relates pretty well.
Literally, all the people in the music video are having a good time, a wonderful Christmas time. They all attend a party, in which Paul McCartney is performing with his band.
There are various intricate light and editing techniques used throughout which is shocking to see from a 1979 music video. The tricks are totally interesting to watch and shows the imagination behind the people who made the music video.
There's not a lot going on in this music video; however, it's joyous, it's festive, it's Christmassy... What more should we have expected? I like how they tried different things and made the music video current for its time.
I have searched high and low for a new release this week as I refuse to promote or even write about Honey G and her single "The Honey G Show". So, instead, I've found this, and I am so grateful as I actually loved hearing this, and the music video is pretty good too. Guess some luck came my way today. So this is another Sam Feldt single, with vocals uncredited by Jasmine Thompson. Watch a guy lose his best friend, Sam Feldt, to fame in this music video for "What About The Love".
Sam Feldt, real name Sammy Renders, is one of the biggest Dutch DJs around at the moment. He hit it off big with his single "Show Me Love" which had vocals from Kimberly Anne; it was a new version of Robin S' classic song "Show Me Love". It did well internationally, pushing him into the limelight; however, his follow-up singles, much like his previous singles, haven't charted quite so well. This song was originally a remix of Hugel's "Where We Belong" which features Jasmine Thompson. This is a new version of that remix, with some lyrics removed due to Jasmine Thompson's management, according to Sam Feldt himself.
This music video starts off with a guy talking, with Japanese and English words on the screen... It says "Everyone lives in this world. But I have my own. My name is Tom Ballon. And I lost my best friend to stardom."
We watch a series of images follow, which then turn into segmented visuals. We watch Sam Feldt and his friend, who we can presume is Tom Ballon, go about Sam Feldt's superstardom.
Tom Ballon, if that's who he is, is completely lonely following in Sam Feldt's shadow. At his concert, at his home, in loads of different countries and cultures. Tom Ballon, I'm going to call him Tom Ballon, even if it isn't him; isn't having the best time. He's on the outside looking in, not enjoying what is right in front of him.
This could be because of how Sam Feldt doesn't quite include him. The song is called "What About The Love" and Sam Feldt is too interested in seeing the world, playing music to his fans, and doing other things; neglecting Tom Ballon.
The ending has Tom Ballon standing in front of Sam Feldt and still being ignored. He kind of needs to liven up once in a while, I'd do anything to travel around the world with someone; he could be a lot worse off, not going to lie. The final scene has Japanese and English words saying: "Now and then eat an apple, or else you will go bald". That pretty much sounds like a threat, and I don't see how that correlates with the music video, but, okay, although I don't like apples.
Overall, this music video relates to the song completely. It's passionate, and I love how it also shows the energy of Sam Feldt concerts, all the while focusing on this Tom Ballon guy. It's entertaining and intricate. Very clever and comedic. It works completely. The song is one I'd totally listen to again!
Another great song from the Eurovision Song Contest 2015. This time it cuts right through my Christmas Special 2016, purely because I want to finish my Eurovision Song Contest Special before the end of the year. Russia has recently been doing well at Eurovision, and this is definitely a song that deserved to win, and one that gets better with every listen. Russia came second with 303 points, just 62 points away from the winner. In this music video for "A Million Voices", we see very beautiful different people as well as Polina Gagarina giving the song her all, which is to be expected.
Polina Gagarina is a prolific Russian singer, she has really made a name for herself and almost won Eurovision for them. A singer like this deserves international fame, and so she continues to try. She released a new album called "9", which was interesting, to say the least. Click here to see my review on the album for CelebMix. She is currently a coach on Golos (the Russian version of The Voice), and on her team was fellow Eurovision 2015 contestant Aminata, who sang "Love Injected", before she got knocked out during the Battles. C1R was the broadcaster who chose Polina Gagarina through internal selection. The song she sang was written by Gabriel Alares, Joakim Björnberg, Katrina Noorbergen, Leonid Gutkin, and Vladimir Matetsky.
This music video is extremely basic, it coincides with a few other Eurovision music videos that haven't got a lot going on.
The shooting of the video involved 25 people of different ages and ethnicities. This really shows during the video, and explains that we are all the same regardless, we're all human.
That is the story of the song itself and it's such a beautiful song that I was hoping that the music video would do the same, but there's just isn't enough substance to it.
Polina Gagarina's performance piece is amazing as per usual. She's gorgeous and definitely camera friendly. She shines singing this song in the music video, so it's no wonder she did amazingly on the Eurovision stage. It's just a shame there isn't a much more expansive music video to relate to the song.
This is just one of those moments that makes you think: "Did this really happen?" And now this is part of my Christmas Special 2016. It's one of those things that you wouldn't expect to happen. Mariah Carey's original version of "All I Want For Christmas Is You" is not only iconic, but it's still very current. It's the one that always charts highly every Christmas, and it's one a lot of people love. It's highly catchy and is one of those ones that people look forward to hearing on the radio. So why she thought it was a good idea to do a new version with Justin Bieber, we'll never know. Watch Justin Bieber shop in Macy's, buying everything and anything, whilst eyeing up Mariah Carey; then later giving out presents in this music video for "All I Want For Christmas Is You (SuperFestive!)".
Justin Bieber is one of the biggest male artists in the world right now; many people have become fans of his music after his recent album. His Purpose album is full of amazing songs that everybody is still talking about today; who knows what the next album will bring, but no doubt it will be amazing. However, when this song was released as part of a Christmas album, he was still coming into his own. His own Christmas song "Mistletoe" is still pretty good, but maybe he needs to release another Christmas album, with a single that will top the charts; it would certainly make a change to see a Christmas song at the top of the UK Singles Chart for Christmas. Teaming up with Mariah Carey, this version of this classic song was released as a promotional single in some countries. She is one of the biggest female artists in the world. She has definitely made a name for herself, made her money and is still current when she wants to be. This should've done well globally, but it's nothing compared to the original.
Directed by Sanaa Hamri, the music video shows the two superstar artists in Macy's. Justin Bieber is a customer, piling everything and anything into his shopping trolley, whilst Mariah Carey poses on a stand as if she is some sort of mannequin.
She winks at him and then the music video progresses as she comes alive. Shoppers wait outside Macy's to get gifts from these two stars.
They throw presents out to the crowd; at times, it looks like Justin Bieber is trying to throw them as far away as possible. There is definitely some power behind those throws.
He does look quite childish next to the highly professional and sexy Mariah Carey. His performance piece is pretty cute, which is a contrast to Mariah Carey's performance piece, who is being overly sexy. It doesn't really gel well, but nor does the song.
The narrative doesn't relate to the song, although I guess you could suppose they are singing to one another. As a whole, I'm not quite so keen on it. However, it is completely festive, and I suppose it's good that they tried to switch up the original. But, even Mariah Carey can't beat the original, and it's her own song. Nice try though.
Another Ariana Grande music video a part of my blog, but the first to be a part of a special; she now debuts on my Christmas Special 2016, I knew she had a Christmas music video, even though it does seem pretty unprofessional, as everyone keeps mentioning in the comments, but fun music videos can be unprofessional. Sometimes artists need a fun time, not a popstar big music video, and this is what this is. Fun. Fun. Fun. Watch Ariana Grande spend time in a house with her friends, celebrating Christmas while she sings her song "Santa Tell Me".
We all know who Ariana Grande is, she grew up on our TV screens on TV show "Victorious", and then later as a main star in the spinoff "Sam & Cat", all on Nickelodeon. Afterwards, she launched her music career and the rest is history. Now she's one of the biggest female singers in the world. With her brilliant voice and her amazing career, the future will forever be bright for this girl. This song was released in 2014 and did mediocre on the charts. It was written by Ariana Grande, Savan Kotecha, and Ilya.
Directed by Alfredo Flores and Jones Crow, the music video is pretty simple. Ariana Grande throws an exclusive Christmas party for her and her friends, at a house.
The opening scene sees her and her friends in a bed with animal hats on, goofing around. They mess around in pretty much every scene.
There's a slight dance sequence on the scenes, but the choreography is too simple as if they came up with it on the spot.
It's cute, it's simple, it's nice, there's not much else I can say. The best part is totally the ending, not because it's finished but because they show some outtakes, which are pretty funny.
Overall, it's cute, it's Christmassy, and it's fun. That's all we need. Ariana Grande deserves some fun in her life at least and this was it. I'm glad she had a good time on set because that really shows.
Another 2016 Christmas song, and another one where proceeds go to a charity. This one was released a couple of weeks ago and so is now part of my Christmas Special 2016. Cruz Beckham, according to his parents, famous footballer David Beckham and posh spice & fashionista Victoria Beckham, have always stated how Cruz Beckham is musically inclined, so it's no surprise he has launched his music career, even if it is a child-like voice with a cute music video. Watch Cruz Beckham spend time in London skateboarding and performing amongst glitter, snow and smoke in this "If Everyday Was Christmas" music video.
Cruz Beckham is the new boy on the scene. He comes from a famous background. His mother is Victoria Beckham, who was one-fifth of the Spice Girls - one of the biggest girl bands in the world - and then later became a fashion designer. As for his father, David Beckham is known mostly for his football career, he has gone on to be the face of many advertising campaigns and has gone down the fashion route with H&M. Their oldest son, Brooklyn Beckham, has recently gone on to model for brands; but now it's Cruz's turn to hit the fame lights. All proceeds go to Make A Wish Foundation.
Directed by Jesse Jenkins, the music video is definitely super cute. It shows Cruz Beckham rolling around London on his skateboard; as well as studio filming, where he performs his song whilst snow and glitter rain down on him; and don't forget the smoke.
There isn't an awful lot going on, but it is cute and does include family and snow, which is kind of Christmassy. Oh and London, which isn't Christmassy, but it is the place I want to move to and the place I want to live.
I like the failed attempt at a glitter angel; nice idea. There's nothing else I can comment on. It's a super cute music video, that includes family and snow, what more can I say? There's a few segments towards the charity, but not a whole lot.
Here's The X Factor's winner's single, and it's actually a Christmas song this time around. Adding some Christmas spirit might just get the winner's single to the top of the charts once again. Yet, that didn't quite happen, since it was quite the competitive week. Clean Bandit with Sean Paul and Anne-Marie is still at the top with "Rockabye". This song peaked at number three, and since it's a Christmas song, I had to include it in my Christmas Special 2016. Watch Matt Terry perform "When Christmas Comes Around" at the live final, with snapshots of the charity work that is done in support of the sales.
Matt Terry won The X Factor's thirteenth series, in a very close final with Saara Aalto. He later signed with RCA records instead of Syco, in quite a surprising move. Instead, Syco signed Honey G, and possibly has some other up-and-coming plans to sign up other acts. They plan to make Matt Terry the next Olly Murs, but the only comparison we can see is the fact that they're both male and that they are now on the same record label. Will this just be another winner who will disappear? Time will tell. This song was written by Ed Sheeran and Amy Wadge.
The music video is a pure performance piece, which we watched during the live final of The X Factor. The only difference is that they have put a black and white filter on; which, I suppose, is to give it more of a festive Christmas visual. Yet, it makes no difference and actually makes me want to watch a different video that's actually in colour. I just don't like black and white music videos, unless there is a specific reason for the filter.
The single's proceeds will go to charities: Together For Short Lives and Shooting Star CHASE. Throughout the music video, Matt Terry's performance piece is cut between snapshots of what these charities do, and how they help people.
It's a typical charity music video, it's a typical X Factor winner's music video, although using the winner's live performance of the song instead of a studio visual is something different, that we haven't seen for a while. It just feels like we've seen this sort of music video way too many times and it's the same old same old. We want something new.
Another collective that was released this year, it didn't serve as a New Release since it was released a few weeks earlier, but it still one of the contenders for the charts in the run-up to Christmas. And since it's a Christmas song, it's a part of my Christmas Special 2016. This one consists of 25 online influencers from all over the world; this is why you might recognise some of them; if not, all of them. With a cheerful festive song, this deserves a good chance at hitting the charts hard, but it needs a hell of a lot more people buying the single, so go and buy it now! The Hello Christmas collection of online influencers have fun recording "Christmas Without You" and singing together in this music video, whilst we watch some behind-the-scene footage and a comedic narrative.
Hello Christmas are a collection of 25 online influencers who are: Alexa Mae, Brittany Balyn, BriaAndChrissy (Bria Kam and Chrissy Chambers), Cassie Diamond, Carrington Durham, Emma Heesters, Hannah Trigwell, Jake Mitchell, Jayden Rodrigues, Joe Tasker, Julia Van Bergen, Macy Kate, Marina Joyce, Melanie Murphy, Monica Church, Polina Beregova, Riyadh K, Saffron Barker, Sapphire, Shelby Church, Taylor Jones, Toby Randall, VladTeeVee, and Yammy. These online stars have become a sensation by focusing on what they want to do. They're an inspiration to everyone, but you would think they'd easily be able to promote this track and get it to number one but it's just not that simple, clearly. The project comes from Hello Management and came to my attention thanks to Taylor Jones (since I am a fan of his music, it's so good!). So get behind the track and buy it, I sure have and it deserves to climb the charts. The song was written and produced by Jackie Boyz (Carlos Battey and Steven Battey) and The Producers House. The song is in support of Make-A-Wish UK.
The music video was directed by Nick Upshall and is completely festive and Christmassy, but it mostly portrays a performance piece of recording the song.
There is a comedic narration thanks to the filming of Joe Tasker, who arrives late and runs after the bus; then arrives at the studio late; and then, when he finally arrives inside the studio booth, the song is completely done with and there's nothing left for him to sing.
Inside the studio, it's all fun and excitement. All the singers are clearly having the best time of their lives. Some have personally identified with the song adding brilliant emotion; others not so much. Regardless, as a collective, they sing brilliantly. They really have come together on this one.
I love the Christmas decorations and the use of behind-the-scenes visuals to break up the studio booth recordings of the song. It's interesting and comedic. It's full of festive cheer and that's what we needed.
Overall, it's a great Christmas song with brilliant vocals, and the rap just knocks it out of the park! The music video could be more relatable to the song and could've had a bigger narrative, although time and budget may have been reasons as to why we got this type of music video. Nonetheless, it's festive and fun and they clearly all enjoyed themselves, which is what the Christmas spirit is all about. So get behind it and buy it on iTunes now, give it the shot it needs to be number one!
Surely this was obvious. Of course, I was going to review Bronnie's "Modern Day Christmas" music video for my Christmas Special 2016. She was a part of my Halloween Special 2016, and now she's a part of my Christmas Special 2016. She's one of my favourite new artists on the scene. This was her first single and it's totally original and authentic; definitely, a Christmas song more people need to hear. Watch Bronnie bring some festive Christmas spirit to us all with this "Modern Day Christmas" music video, where she dresses up as Santa and wishes for an alien.
Bronnie, full name Bronnie Hughes, is an aspiring singer/songwriter, who has gone on to support Josh Taylor and Over Atlantic. She is currently finishing off the Alstar Xmas Party Tour 2016. This is her debut single which she released last year for Christmas. She has followed this up with two more singles that she released this year "High School Sucks" and "Scared Much". This pop/rock Christmas song is passionate and intricate. It was written by Bronnie Hughes.
The music video is mainly a performance piece, with Bronnie adding comedic snapshots of her dressed up as Santa or her admiring the decorations on the tree.
The video is a personal one where she interacts with her viewers throughout. It's an upbeat modern Christmas song, that is easily one of my faves.
It's fun, it's interesting and full of enthusiasm. It shows how far Bronnie has come since she first released this song. She's been building momentum and 2017 is around the corner; no doubt she has big plans for next year and she's one to keep an eye on, for sure.
Time to start my Christmas Special 2016. It's quite the battle for the top spot this year, with lots of people wanting the number one to be a Christmas song, but it seems unlikely that that will happen; what with all the UK Christmas Number Ones rarely being Christmassy at all. Hit Christmas songs, usually, settle for the top 10 and year after year climb back onto the chart. This year will be just like any other year... Only with more Christmas songs competing for the top spot. Watch the Proclaimers' Christmas Collective bring the spirit of Christmas with their song "Dance Tonight (It's Christmas)". They've got strong vocals and a sweet narrative.
The Christmas Collective are a collection of six vocalists, consisting of Faye Snelling, Hannah Roberts, Gina Natasha Cummins, Rianne Collins, Ryan Hase, and Sam Cousins. They came together for this Christmas song which is completely cheerful with so many identifiable Christmas traditions and thoughts, filled with beautiful vocals that really brings the stunning quality of this song. Some come from a musical background, hence why you might recognise them. Some are new singers on the scene. Each adds a special flavour to this song, so much so that each artist could push for a solo career and easily become successful. This is what makes this new release one of the best for Christmas number one, this year because their vocals are on point. This song was written by Mark Harvey and Sam Cousins. Public suggestions helped create the lyrics. Put together by Proclaimers Church. All proceeds from the single will be donated to local charities Break and Love Norwich.
The music video has a whole lot of festive Christmas spirit behind it. Both narrative and performance based, is there any better way to represent a Christmas song than give it a cheerful loving music video?
The performance side of things are very festive. It's good to see each of the singers get a spotlight; granted that some are seen more than others, but they equally add something fresh to the track. Each artist is different in their own right, and they've crafted the song wondrously around their voices with brilliant harmonies. The visual brings emotion into the video; this song means a lot to these singers and it really shows.
The narrative is just as festive. Christmas brings people together, and that is shown throughout. The actors bring a realness to the video, some normalcy amongst traditions such as exchanging presents. It's loving and understanding. However, Sam Cousins clearly just danced and grooved out by himself to fill the video up; this comes off slightly weird, but it's all in good spirit.
Overall, as Christmas music videos go, this is one of the best from a collection of artists. Usually, these sort of music videos come off completely flat; but this one is honest and real, with great emotion behind. If you haven't bought the track yet, you really ought to. These guys need the support, and it deserves to top the charts, even if it doesn't seem likely.
It's a Thursday, which means it's Thursday Revisit once again. I chose Machine Gun Kelly since he is super hot in "Bad Things" with Camila Cabello, and I haven't actually heard any of his other songs, so this was a perfect opportunity. This one was released in 2011 and is the only other Machine Gun Kelly song to chart on the US Billboard Hot 100 Chart, next to "Bad Things". Watch Waka Flocka Flame knock out the father of Machine Gun Kelly's girlfriend, as they both announce that they each are a "Wild Boy".
Machine Gun Kelly, known as MGK during this time, is a US rapper and actor. His real name is Richard Colson Baker. He first came to my attention playing Ty in the film Nerve. Then he released "Bad Things" and that was it. I know I'll be seeing more of him. As for the featured artist, Waka Flocka Flame, real name Juaquin Malphurs, he has been popping up here and there. He's a rapper that people have heard of but has yet to have an internationally successful single that people identify his name with. He is also building up his rapping career, so I also expect we'll hear more from him soon. This single charted at number 98 on the US Billboard Hot 100 Chart. It was written by Richard Colson Baker, Juaquin Malphurs, and Joshua Luellen.
Directed by Spliff TV and Maybach Music Films, the music video is mainly a performance-based video with narrative scenes throughout. It also features cameo appearances by Johnny Dang, Katt Williams, and Layzie Bone.
The video starts off with a girl introducing her boyfriend to her parents at a dinner table. The boyfriend, in question, is MGK, which he tells the parents stands for Machine Gun Kelly. It's a great way to introduce himself to the viewers of the music video, with a comical segment as he has also brought along his friend, Waka Flocka Flame, to the intimate meeting.
Waka Flocka Flame smashes a bottle on the father's head, claiming he is a "Wild Boy". This is where the performance side jumps in, with both artists giving it their all whilst shirtless.
The music video is intricate and interesting. Both rappers give it; showing passion for the song, whilst adding comedic segments. It's relatable and engaging, yet the narrative is weird and not easily understandable. Why? Just why? It doesn't make sense, completely wild but with no reasoning.
There are two music videos for this song, this is the original one, whilst the other was released months after his performance on the Eurovision stage. This was another favourite of mine at the Eurovision Song Contest 2015, and was definitely worthy of winning; instead, Loïc Nottet came fourth with 217 points for Belgium. In this video for "Rhythm Inside", Loïc Nottet gets all wet and sexy whilst contrasting similar types of people.
Loïc Nottet first made a name for himself in Belgium by coming second in The Voice of Belgique third series. He was chosen through internal selection to represent the country at the Eurovision Song Contest 2015. Since coming fourth, he has gone on to release a second single titled "Million Eyes", as well as announcing some concerts. With a voice like his, Loïc Nottet deserves international fame, and he must never give up. I love this song and it's follow-up single, and I cannot wait for an actual album from him. This song was written by Loïc Nottet and Beverly Jo Scott.
Directed by Josh Brandão & Nicolai Kornum, this music video is a pure performance piece, with actors showing differences between similar people, all the while Loïc Nottet giving a very sexy performance as he gets wet and looks sultrily into the camera.
There isn't an awful lot going on in this music video. People are displayed wondrously, showing complete contrasts in people who look similar. It just goes to show that what you see isn't always what you get. It's quite comedic at times.
As usual, Loïc Nottet's performance piece is intense and exciting; although, it was so much better on stage at Eurovision 2015. The water makes him totally sexy, and even the red paint does things you wouldn't expect. I hope more sexy music videos are on their way.
This music video totally differs to the other one that was later released. The other music video is purely narrative and totally interesting if a little confusing. This one, however, is quite stripped back - although not as much as the single cover suggests - and could've done with more of a narrative.
Well, YouTube sure knows how to draw me in, by showing this amongst my recommended videos. This thumbnail is totally what drew me into watching this music video today, and I am now a fan of the song, it is right up my street - in more ways than one - and YouTube Recommendations has got it right once again! Lyon Hart's music video for "Falling For You" is a sensual sexy love/hate relationship between dancers Lonnie Poupard, Jr. and Kile Hotchkiss, who are spiralling out of control.
Lyon Hart, real name Mark Sanderlin, is a singer/songwriter who debuted his EP, "With Or Without Me", last year. He has written for some of the best and some of the well-known, as well as featured on tracks you probably know but haven't connected his name to. He is reaching out, taking opportunities as they come; which is totally admirable. Music is difficult to get into, yet this is just the start for 'Lyon (like neon) Hart (like Melissa Joan)' as it states on his Facebook Page. Now he has a big important music video, that could've been susceptible to a lot of abuse; instead, it has gained a lot of admiration from people all over the world. This is the beginning of Lyon Hart, and now he needs to ride this success. This song was written by Robert Grimaldi, Douglas Larsen, Benjamin Lindel, and Mark Sanderlin.
Directed by Matt VanDaniker, the music video shows the relationship between two gay men intercut between a beautiful contemporary dance that was choreographed by the dancers and actors themselves: Lonnie Poupard, Jr. and Kile Hotchkiss.
The editing team behind this has brilliantly transitioned a choreographed danced scene into a loving narrative. At times, it feels too quick and less explanatory. The thing about contemporary dance is that it is supposed to show emotional feeling and tell a story. This does exactly that, only they're giving us the emotional feeling and the storyline within the narrative; which leaves the audience quite transparent as they don't have anything to take in.
Regardless of this, the transitions are crafted brilliantly. The narrative is inviting, sexy, sultry, and totally sensual. It makes me miss having someone there to be sensual with; yet, taking me back to the times that I have been; I know my future husband is out there for me, time will be worth it. For the time being, I can watch Lonnie Poupard, Jr. and Kile Hotchkiss kiss, touch, and love each other.
Showing the ups and down of a relationship. This music video definitely supports the LGBT+ community, and it's amazing to see this up on YouTube and with positive comments. There was no performance piece from Lyon Hart himself, but this music video is amazing, regardless. I hope to see Lonnie Poupard, Jr. and Kile Hotchkiss choreograph more male-male dance sequences. This is beyond beautiful. Please choreograph my wedding dance with my future husband, whoever he may be.
He's the Critics' Choice Brit Award Winner 2017, and since Clean Bandit is still on top with the incredible "Rockabye" song that is always stuck in my head because of Anne-Marie's amazing vocals and Sean Paul's voice; it opens my Chart Mondays up, and this is really the only music video I can do from the UK Singles Chart. Standing up for himself and everyone else, this song has really captured all our hearts; its music video shows Rag'n'Bone Man as well as various other people as "Human", we're all the same.
Rag'n'Bone Man, real name Rory Graham, has been around for a couple of years, dropping EPs and a couple of singles; but when this hit came around, it totally blasted him into a star. All it takes is one song. Some talent is never found because they never get the right song. This song comes from his debut album, which will be released in February, and is also titled "Human". He has recently won the Brits Critics' Choice Award, against some stiff competition including Dua Lipa and Anne-Marie. I am - kind of - interested in his following releases. Will he be a one-hit wonder? With a voice like his, he shouldn't be. This song was written by Jamie Hartman and Rory Graham.
Directed by Charlie Robins, this music video is performance based, with personal portraits.
They have shown Rag'n'Bone Man simply as "Human", showing no difference between him and any of the other people in this music video.
With skilled editing work, everyone morphs into one. It shows a strong message, a message of unity and hurtfulness. Everyone shown could have something wrong with them, enough where they have got bullied, been abused physically and mentally. But they're just human, just like we're just human.
This music video may not be exciting or engaging, but it's showing that we're all human beings. Relating to the song perfectly, it comes across with a fighting spirit. And yet, where there's room to grow this into a wonderful narrative, it stays flat and leaves us guessing.
This is one of my favourite duet songs of 2016, talk about a collaboration and a half. This is beyond mesmerising; but, once again, Camila Cabello doesn't make a hit. This song and her other duet with Shawn Mendes, "I Know What You Did Last Summer", hasn't really done well on the UK chart. Regardless of that fact, it doesn't take away from how amazing this song is! It's totally underrated. Watch Machine Gun Kelly and Camila Cabello do "Bad Things" together and slightly to each other, in this music video, with a shocking heartfelt ending that leaves us all guessing.
Machine Gun Kelly, real name Richard Colson Baker, is a rapper and an actor. He first came to my attention in Nerve. Since then, he released this song and I'm hooked. He looks beautiful in this music video, and I'm eager to listen to more of his songs and watch more of the films he has starred in. The whole reason I bought the single was because of Camila Cabello, as I'm a massive fan of Fifth Harmony. She's the first of the five girls to go on and release music away from the group. As previously mentioned, she teamed up with Shawn Mendes on the amazing track "I Know What You Did Last Summer", and then she's done this one. But, she hasn't made it solo just yet, so I don't think Fifth Harmony are going to part ways anytime soon, even if Lauren Jauregui has done the same and released her own featured single. This song was written by Colson Baker, Camila Cabello, Madison Love, Tony Scalzo, Joe Khajadourian, and Alex Schwartz. It features an interpolation of Fastball's "Out Of My Head".
Directed by Hannah Lux Davis, no wonder it's so amazing, this music video is highly memorable and totally infectious.
The collaborative artists are childhood lovers, who have grown up together doing bad things. There are so many amazing scenes that it is impossible to comment on them all. But I totally love the car drifting scene, that really made me think they were going to crash and die there.
They find an abandoned warehouse where they throw a party, and Camila Cabello adorns a princess tiara. Machine Gun Kelly gets wrapped in tape, I'm sure a few of us wouldn't mind doing that to him.
He gets in a couple of fights, and they also steal a car, which leads to the police running after them. That then brings us right back to the start of the music video where they can be seen at the top of a building, but the ending leaves it on a total cliff-hanger, do they jump?
Both artists look incredibly sexy in this music video, just by being themselves and the perfect camera angles and shots.
What else can I say? Other than going into how gorgeously sexy Machine Gun Kelly looks, but then again, the same could be said of Camila Cabello. The song is pure fire, but the music video has stepped up the song so much more. This will forever remain an underrated track, and it so should've gained momentum. It'll be a lost treasure that I will be playing for years. The music video follows suit and is worthy of awards across the board. Side note: I love the comments saying that this was what Shawn Mendes was on about, this is what Camila Cabello got up to last summer; in reference to her previous collaboration "I Know What You Did Last Summer".
Heard this on the radio after Christmas shopping, so thought it would be the perfect excuse to review the video. This is such a sweet music video, yet could've easily been chaotic... Wait! It pretty is chaotic in a relatable way. I'm not so keen on the song, it's too nicey-nice for the lyrical context, and yet the music video does the exact same thing. Watch children take over Olly Murs' music video set in this visual of "Grow Up". Adorable but not engaging.
Olly Murs made his name by coming second in the sixth series of The X Factor. He has done the best from the contestants of that year, although that could be due to being signed to the Syco label and managing to hit out bangers in his early career. Now, he's totally been underperforming, releasing growing songs, much like this one. After hearing it over and over, it easily embeds into my head, which is his signature style of songs, and yet they're never easy hits, and never memorable enough. This is just another to add to the Olly Murs collection. This song was written by Olly Murs, Steve Robson, Camille Purcell, and Wayne Hector.
Directed by Jim Canty, children take over completely and make the video instead. See them reorganising the set, doing his make-up and being fashionistas.
Annoyingly they talk over the song, which doesn't make it that great to view. Not only that but it seems very messy.
This sort of video has been done plenty of times. We've seen people behind cameras and in director chairs often, enough that I can't even list them all because there's been too many. Yet, this is just another one; there's nothing unique or special about this one, apart from it being children, but they're not mischievous enough.
Olly Murs is known for being a cheeky chappy, and therefore, we expect the kids to be just as cheeky. Yet, this just falls flat.
The music video feels totally low budget. It should've been so much bigger, but it's not. The kids should be troublemakers but they're not. There's no doubt that Olly Murs will be a great father one day, but that is not what this song is about.
