Not much choice for today's backdated new release, so I decided to go with one of my favourites even though it wasn't technically released on this date; instead, it was released a few days earlier. I did write up an article about it for CelebMix, which was to be expected. Antonia has been on form lately, especially in Romania, and I'm excited to see what the future brings - hopefully, a new album as we certainly need a new one from her. Watch Antonia and Connect-R perform this collaboration with all the heart and emotion it deserves, while we watch a narrative couple take some time apart from each other, finally ending it in this music video for "Adio".
Antonia, full name Antonia Iacobescu, is one of the biggest female Romanian singers around. She went international in her early career but now she's gone back to her home-country-roots by singing in Romanian and it's been fairing well for her, gaining chart hits in that country and millions of YouTube views. She hasn't released an album since her debut in 2015 so we really need a new Antonia album, that's for sure. This song features Connect-R, real name Ştefan Mihalache, who is a Romanian hip-hop artist. He was originally a part of R.A.C.L.A. before he went after a solo career, becoming a recognised figure in Romanian music. This song was written by Alexandru Cotoi and Ştefan Mihalache.
This music video was directed by Khaled Mokhtar - someone who is certainly making his name known in the Romanian music video industry. This is both a narrative and a performance visual, although there's not much to the former and not much to the latter, either.
Let's start with the story side. We watch a man and a woman finish their argument and decide they need some alone time. This is clear from the get-go and their time apart makes them realise that they need this to become a permanent thing; hence the upsetting ending. It completely relates to the song, and the actors put in a lot of skill to display the character's feelings. However, there's not enough to show us and we don't quite know where the argument came from or what it was about.
As for the performance side, Connect-R is pretty emotionless, which is quite surprising considering he wrote the song. He's not much of an expressive performer, and I was expecting him to deliver. His style is on form though. As a whole, he is a complete opposite to Antonia. She knows how to bring it in a music video, and that's exactly what she does. She's connected with the song and now she wants all the viewers to connect too. Thing is, her style is off-point. I know wet hair is in, but it actually looks greasy making her less appealing; and, her coat may be a nice colour, but it doesn't allow her to release much of her typical energy.
Overall, I'm not sure what to make of this music video. The basis and the concept are brilliant and it should've been an easy top mark from me; however, both sides of this music video has its flaws. If only this was better.
Definitely one of the most underrated rappers in the world right now, NF has finally launched globally with the awesome track "Let You Down"; however, it seems unlikely that he'll keep getting chart hits even though he completely deserves them. His back catalogue, for example, is flat out amazing and I just can't get enough of him due to the way he floods a song with emotion. It's simply awesome and worthy of international success and awards across the board. NF is my new favourite rapper at the moment, and I could listen to his music all day long. The same goes for his music videos. Watch NF perform his songs within meaningful scenes that show people who are unhappy with their lives and the choices that they have made in his music video for "Wake Up".
NF, real name Nathan Feuerstein, is an American rapper who has charted a lot in the Christian hip-hop charts in his home country. He gained mainstream success with the song "Let You Down" launching on the world with emotion, flare, and style. He's definitely one to watch and I truly believe he is going to become one of the biggest rappers in the world as his music reaches out to more and more people. His music comes from the heart, and that is very clear in every single song that he sings; there's a raw emotional quality to his words that strikes something inside of us all. I'm very excited to see what the future brings him. "Wake Up" was written by Tommee Profitt and NF.
Directed by Jon Jon Augustavo, this music video is an in-depth take on the lyrics that grab the audience in from the very first minute. It's intriguing and interesting throughout.
There are two narratives going on that is slightly linked. We first watch a woman who lives in a mansion, and we soon realise that she's alone and that her husband and child left her. She never got to be a great parent and she's annoyed at herself for the way that things have gone and smashes up the house.
Later she exits out of a garage, where we watch a younger man who is her gardener, possibly. He thinks she's got everything going for her whilst he's got nothing going for himself; we later see him smashing up his own house as he isn't happy the way his life is going.
Throughout NF can be seen in certain scenes like a ghost or an apparition. He brings all his infectious emotional energy with every single word, once again proving he deserves to be known globally. The ending scene sees our two main characters as old-aged people who are still alone. It's a clever music video, one I could watch again and again.
I'm trying to add more male singers' music videos to this blog, purely because I feel that week-on-week I'm writing about female artists, and as much as I love writing about some of my favourite queens in the industry, I need a break from them every now and again. So, after randomly clicking through a few YouTube videos, I came across this one and I thought, why not? At 16 million YouTube views, I just had to review it. Watch Lauv's car break down in the middle of nowhere, he then gets out and sings his song with an amazing falsetto whilst dancing in front of the Paris, Texas sign in this music video for "Paris In The Rain".
Lauv, real name Ari Leff, went international with his single "I Like Me Better" which was a global hit, charting in many countries around the world, although they were moderate chart numbers. His other singles haven't quite reached up to the success of that previous track, although I certainly can't deny his amazing singing voice and off-the-radar vocals. This track, in my opinion, should've been a worldwide smash, it's catchy, it's meaningful, and Lauv definitely brings it. What more can we want? Regardless, this track will no doubt become a treasured track by many, including myself. I am so glad I've stumbled across this song, and I definitely can't get it out of my head. "Paris In The Rain" was written by Ari Leff, Michael Matosic, and Michael Ross Pollack.
Directed by Chase Smith, this music video is a pure performance visual which easily showcases Lauv as an artist in every way. If we were to go and see him live, we know exactly the sort of energy he would unleash to the crowd, just from this music video alone.
There's not a lot going on, the car breaks down so he dances in the street. A car does drive by and he tries to hitchike but he's just ignored. Then an umbrella pops out of nowhere as he continues to move. At one point, we see that he has stopped in front of the 'Welcome to Paris, Texas' sign.
Overall, the song is beyond amazing and Lauv really shows off his voice in every single way. Unfortunately, the music video barely relates to the song and doesn't keep the audience interested all the way through. I would've liked to have seen a love interest, at least. Regardless, Lauv is certainly a singer who deserves to stay popular, and I can't wait to see what the future brings him.
I really need to start to watch popular music videos, because I haven't seen this yet. This is literally the first time I have seen this music video, which is quite a surprise considering how popular the song is. I'm not sure what to make of this at all, I'm not really a fan of either artist and so that usually puts a slight judgement on to my review, same goes for the song itself which I'm not so keen on. This backdated review is a Chart Mondays, where Ed Sheeran with "Perfect" remains on the top of the UK chart, hence why I'm reviewing this song since it's in the Top 10 on this backdated date. Watch Julia Michaels sing this song in various places whilst an editing technique allows it to run smoothly, with Clean Bandit appearing throughout, in this music video for "I Miss You".
Clean Bandit are a three-piece instrumental group consisting of Grace Chatto, Jack Patterson, and Luke Patterson. They are the biggest British instrumental band in the country and they collaborate with other artists so that there are vocals on the songs. They've had a number of hits and every single release pushes their stamp further into the music industry. They are seriously unstoppable completely. Their second studio album is planned to be released in the early months of this year, so surely that means very very soon. This is a collaboration with well-known songwriter-turned-popular-singer Julia Michaels. Her song "Issues" became a smash hit around the whole world; since then, she hasn't lived up to that track until this one came along. She's definitely one to watch considering her amazing back-catalogue of songwriting hits. This track was written by Julia Michaels, Jack Patterson, and Grace Chatto.
Directed by Jack Patterson & Grace Chatto, this music video is flat-out iconic, purely because of the amazing editing techniques used. It always surprises me that their visuals are self-directed because they manage to nail it every single time.
We watch Julia Michaels walk along train tracks before switching to a desert scene that continues her path with layer upon layer between the two. It looks like they had complete fun filming this. My problem is that they're all dressed in red, making Julia Michaels look like she's a part of Clean Bandit as if she's the lead singer or lead vocalist or frontwoman of the group - this is not what we usually expect from a featured singer.
Overall, there's not a lot to comment on, I'm not so keen on Grace Chatto's outfit, it looks like it's been teared up. Otherwise, both artists nail the performance, giving it all they've got and allowing the viewers to be captured from the very first few seconds, but it doesn't really relate to the song and it doesn't allow any depth, only layers. I do admit, Julia Michaels looks amazing when she's on top of the piano.
This is what happens when a classic song gets revamped like RAYE & Mr Eazi has done with "Decline", as I end up reviewing the original music video too - and why not? Not going to lie, I love what RAYE has done with the song and the idea of declining the call; I now sing those lyrics when I hear this, rather than these actual lyrics. It's full of 00's R&B which was all the rage way back then; it seems to be coming back in, in a whole new spin and we sure aren't complaining. Watch Ja Rule and Ashanti prove that she's always there on time but not always there when he calls in this just-on-time music video for their hit single "Always On Time".
Ja Rule, real name Jeffrey Atkins, is an American rapper who hit it big in the early 00's with rapping on R&B tracks, such as this one. He was on top of his game, however he hasn't released a single in some time, and he's been pushing back his eighth studio album. It's great to see that he wants to make it perfect, especially since he has been away from music for so long; yet, everyone is wondering whether he can make a comeback - we'll have to wait and see. As for the featured star on this track, Ashanti, full name Ashanti Douglas, has been a prominent force in music for some time before jumping into the film industry and making her name known there. She's now focusing on music and is also planning on releasing a brand new album soon, her sixth studio LP. Again, it's another question as to whether she'll be able to make a comeback, her latest album just didn't hit the mark. This song was her first official single and one that was an international hit around the world. It was intended to feature Brandy instead of Ashanti. "Always On Time" was written by Marcus Vest, Jeffrey Atkins, and Irving Lorenzo.
Directed by Craig Fanning, the music video is a performance piece set within a narrative and shows off some incredible scenes that certainly would've put this music video on top during its release. I have to admit, I'm surprised I haven't seen this until today.
Both artists bring R&B glory to the performance piece, that's for sure. They easily take in the lyrics of the song and project it out to the audience whilst adding a bit of fun to it all, which only makes this music video even more engaging.
As for the narrative scenes, there is an awful lot going on. We watch Ja Rule being served breakfast by two women, who are on the clingy side. He calls some woman and she picks him up in a speedboat. Then we pan to what looks like a fireball in the sky, but it must be the sun, and we swap scenes.
This time Ja Rule is rapping in a Chevrolet Continental before he breaks down and a new woman comes to rescue him. Until finally he's performing at a concert and the women surround him wanting him, when all of a sudden a ladder appears and a hot air balloon is above him, with a woman inside ready to rescue him.
Overall, the music video is a great concept that really works. Ashanti is iconic to this song, it's just a shame she doesn't actually appear in the narration scenes, you would think she'd be the one rescuing Ja Rule, every single time. Otherwise, it's a great music video, one I can watch again and again, which works with the song.
I kept hearing this song, wishing I knew what it was so that I could review its music video for my blog. After weeks and weeks, I've finally remembered some of the lyrics so that I could google it, and here it is, finally. I'm surprised that it's a RAYE song; YAS! It's about time she gets the recognition she deserves, but my big question is whether she'll perform well in this music video, especially considering the ones I have seen of her. I am still rooting for her though, and I really cannot wait to click play. Now that I have, I certainly am disappointed. I was really hoping this would be better. Watch RAYE and Mr Eazi perform their song as she shows off various fashion styles and her true visual potential but not quite grasping it whilst Mr Eazi outshines her slightly in this music video for "Decline".
RAYE, real name Rachel Keen, is a singer-songwriter who has been focusing on music for a handful of years. With a killer voice like hers, it's no surprise that she's got some great hits behind her and has featured on some of the best tracks recently. She is definitely one to watch, especially since her vocals are off the chart; she just needs to do better in music videos, because I've seen her perform on TV and that's the sort of energy I want to see from her. The song is a collaboration with Mr Eazi, real name Oluwatosin Ajibade. He comes from Nigeria and has released two mixtapes thus far. He relocated to Kumasi, Ghana to continue his education. He is signed to Wizkid's record label Starboy Entertainment, and I'm sure it won't be long until we hear more from him. This song samples "Always On Time" by Ja Rule featuring Ashanti. "Decline" was written by Marcus Vest, Jeffrey Atkins, Irving Lorenzo, Rachel Keen, Fraser Thorneycroft-Smith, Janee Bennett, and Oluwatosin Oluwule Ajibade.
Directed by Sing J. Lee, this music video is a pure performance piece, something we were hoping not to get from RAYE or at least something that would show off who she is. There' nothing going for this music video, from the old square style to RAYE not giving any energy whatsoever.
At times she does give some potential to the clips; we see her dancing and grooving to the beat, but there's not enough and she never really lets loose. It's because of this that Mr Eazi outshines her during his parts as he brings movement that links to the lyrics he is singing; whereas RAYE has this attitude that comes across as slightly arrogant mixed with an air of not wanting to be there filming a music video. Maybe she isn't that passionate about the songs she's singing?
Overall, this music video deserved to be a lot better since the song is undeniably catchy and certainly takes us back to Ja Rule's "Always On Time" which features Ashanti. I just wish RAYE would bring it like we know that she can. I caught her on Top Of The Pops Christmas Special last year and she was buzzing with energy; that's the woman we want to see in her music videos.
We all know how obsessed I am with Platnum, and I had planned to catch up on my blog in time for this new music release, however I am so far behind right now that I'm just taking one day at a time and trying to focus every single day and attempt to catch up to today's date; and I will eventually, it's just going to take some time. I have been obsessed with this song ever since Platnum and Sweet Female Attitude debuted the track at Staffordshire University's LRV - which is the uni I used to go to; their gigs are always pure fire and beyond worth going if you ever get the chance. Watch Platnum & Sweet Female Attitude dance and perform their collaboration song whilst they light up in UV lighting intersected by a group of dancers and fire performers in this music video for "Looking For Love".
Platnum are a duo consisting of Aaron Evers and Michelle McKenna, they were originally a three-piece with Mina Poli and went on to achieve success at the start of their career by featuring on H2O's track "What's It Gonna Be" before having a solo hit for themselves titled "Love Shy (Thinking About You)". They have gone on to release awesome fired-up tracks that I am still obsessed with today. Now, as a two-piece, this is their first song since they've been a duo, keeping their Platnum edge and style whilst making it more current. For the song, they teamed-up with classic garage artist and friend, Sweet Female Attitude, which is now the stage name for Leanne Brown. She's best known for the 90's track "Flowers". She's also had an amazing career to date and continues to drop new music; she easily stays current and totally slays when it comes to her vocals, just listen to what she brings to this song! This was a collaboration made in heaven, something we've needed in our lives before we knew it. We can only hope they team up again in the future, as this track is pure fire.
The music video is basic, filled with unstoppable energy throughout. It's clear that both these acts love being in front of a camera doing their thing and singing their songs. The track is upbeat and undeniably catchy, and all three artists convey that in the performance visual.
There's a lot going on although the main section of the video is the performance piece which sees Platnum and Sweet Female Attitude embody the musical energy of the song and unleash it out to every single viewer. This is the same energy that they bring to the stage at every single event that they go to. I've seen Platnum twice and I hope I continue to see them again and again as the years come and go.
Other shots see three dancers nailing choreography that works perfectly with the song, as well as a fire performer. There are also some interesting UV shots that see the stars wearing UV paint and lighting up in the dark. It's a great basic music video that I could watch over and over again. I cannot wait to see what these artists release next. What a way to kick off their 2018.
What did I just watch? How is this song Stroke 69's biggest Romanian hit? It does not make sense, although after thinking about the song, it is kind of stuck in my head, so I guess it's not so bad; but I certainly won't be watching this music video a second time! I chose this for my Thursday Revisit, as I doubt I'll get another chance to review this. There's just no substance to the visual and although it may keep certain people entertain, it doesn't really relate that well to the song. Watch Stroke 69 perform their song to women who move sexily in this music video for their debut hit track "Beautiful Smile".
Stroke 69 is a Romanian duo consisting of Sly (Ilyes Zsolt) and DJ White (Nagy Szabolcs). They are still going today, releasing new music and proving that this is what they are meant to be doing. Their songs are easily catchy, with some of them being worthy of becoming international hits if the right promotion came along. It's interesting to see that they have charted in Romania and that they continue to thrive today, doing what they love to do. I am interested if they can expand their reach in the coming years as they continue to release more new music. This one was their debut single, and it's still their biggest hit to date. It was released on Roton Music.
We all have to admit, this music video is sexy and has a slight narration involved if you count the women who are being sexy and eventually end up smiling, as requested by Stroke 69. It's just missing an actual storyline.
Once again, Stroke 69 fails to impress in their performance visuals. None of them really bring it to the camera, and just like in "Black Rose" - which I previously reviewed this week, hence why this has become my Thursday Revisit - Sly and DJ White just makes us wish they'd bring some enthusiasm or emotion or energy to the visual. We just get nothing from them.
Overall, this music video focuses on the women in the clips rather than trying to give the viewers something meaningful to watch. I sure hope their most recent music videos are much better than this, although I probably won't explore them anytime soon.
I had no idea what to review today, and then Cleo came on to my iTunes, not this exact song though, and I decided that I might as well review one of hers. She's one of my favourite singers from Eurovision in the last few years and has certainly been considered as underrated; however, her career has certainly soared as she continues to bring exciting new music and incredible high-quality music videos. I really believe she is a star in the making; although, to go international she needs more exposure. Watch Cleo party on a rooftop with a bunch of voluptuous women as she performs the track in this music video for her song "N-O-C".
Cleo, real name Joanna Klepko. is best known for representing her home country of Poland at the Eurovision Song Contest 2014 alongside Donatan, with the song "My Słowianie", where they came 14th with 62 points. She previously took part in the first season of the Polish version of X Factor. This song is one of her most recent tracks, and she has since charted in Poland with her songs. As for her album, that did really well on the albums chart in Poland and shows she is an artist worth watching out for. This song was written by Cleo and DobroBIT.
Directed by Piotr Smoleński & Michał Konrad, this music video is of high quality and engaging from start to finish, which is something we've come to expect from Cleo. She brings a fierce quality to the video, although she also has quite an interesting high-quality relaxed fashion style.
There are various shots of a helicopter circling around the rooftop, which we can only presume some of the camera shots are from. There are a whole host of models and extras, partying, dancing sexily, taking clothes off, and splashing water, all before Cleo takes to riding in a car at the very end.
Starring throughout the visual is Ola Ciupa, Sandra Traczyk, Luxuria Astaroth, Julia Wróblewska, and Patryk Pniewski. Overall, even though this music video is of high quality, and Cleo brings it, there's just something missing; however, it does relate to the song since I translated the lyrics. I cannot wait to see what the future brings for Cleo.
Catch-up spree is in full force, and here's my Chart Mondays review from five weeks ago - yes, I am that far behind, although you wouldn't know since I have backdated the date. This song is totally the club-banger around at the moment, which isn't a surprise since it is by MK. I am reviewing the music video to this as on this backdated date, Ed Sheeran is still at the top with his song "Perfect". This music video fails to interest me whatsoever and was not at all something I was expecting. Watch a bunch of young people party, dance, and hang out with flashbacks of their youth in this music video to MK's "17".
MK, real name Marc Kinchen, is a DJ that has stayed current as the decades have passed. This is not something many DJs can state, although in recent years they have become ever so popular; which has allowed MK to return to the mainstream recently. He'll certainly be someone that will give us hit after hit, although he's not someone we're all going to be talking about as he is known for his initials, and that's going to take quite a few hits for people to get used to; although, if anyone can do that, it's MK! This song has hit it big in Scotland, Mexico, The UK, and Ireland. It was written by Carla Monroe, Dave Whelan, Marc Kinchen, and Mike Di Scala.
Directed by Dean Richardson, this music video really doesn't have a lot going for it. It's not engaging to the audience, and when you've seen it once you're not all that bothered if you see it again. It's bright and colourful and I love the fact that MK is representing black men and women within dance and house music.
We watch a party go on, before we watch the group interact in the street, all intercut with flashbacks and camera recordings. It's clever but it is so not interesting, it doesn't actively involve the viewers.
Overall, this music video falls flat, which is in major contrast to the song. Appreciation has to go out to the fact that it is quite relatable to the track and the lyrics; the content just isn't something that leaves us wanting more. Instead, within the first minute or so, we're wondering what else we could watch.
Once again, I have left my iTunes to choose which music video to review. I always have it on shuffle and I have such a diverse range of music available that I'll probably be using this method in years to come since it actually allows me to stumble across videos I've never seen before or ones I've forgotten all about - which is the case with this one. There are two music videos released for this song, one of the original song and another of the Richard Vision Remix; I was planning on doing the latter, since I much prefer the song, however, as for music videos, I much prefer the original, but only by the tiniest little bit. Watch Hilary Duff bring fire in the background of this visual while she sings to the camera in this performance-style music video for her song "Play With Fire".
Hilary Duff is someone I have been a fan of for years, both in her music and her acting roles. She's recently been focusing on acting where she stars in TV series Younger, and she has a new film coming up, titled The Haunting Of Sharon Tate. She has dipped into music and is planning on releasing her sixth studio album in the future, although news about new music has pretty much died, with the last mention of it in 2016, although rumours are certainly hyped up. We certainly are dying for new music, especially since her last album was released in 2015, and as much as we all loved it, there wasn't much promotion around it and the singles, and she didn't tour with it. We're hoping that a world tour happens when she next releases music - we so need to see her live. This song wasn't a commercial success at all. It only managed to chart on the Billboard US Dance Club Songs at number 31 and didn't chart anywhere else. The song was written by Hilary Duff, Kara DioGuardi, Rhett Lawrence, and will.i.am.
The music video was directed by Alex and Martin. It is a pure performance piece using video editing and mirrors to transform what could've been a great energetic visual into an unreal, uncaptivating, and quite off-putting music video.
Any energy that Hilary Duff could've pushed out to the audience falls flat with the editing techniques used. This is so not engaging at all. It was inspired by Orson Welles 1948 film noir The Lady From Shanghai.
The music video is known as Hilary Duff's sexy transition into a woman. I actually think people grasp at straws when it comes to Hilary Duff since she is a Disney star and we've all them take down this sexy route so they can strip away their too-nice front; however, this phase isn't easily found in Hilary Duff and she's gained a lot of respect from her peers for this exact reason. Regardless, this music video just doesn't work and although it was nominated for awards, it just falls flat.
I've been planning on watching this music video for some time, but I keep forgetting about it, until recently when it appeared in my YouTube Recommendations. Sunstroke Project were my favourite act in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017, where they sang "Hey, Mamma!"; they came third overall, having appealed greatly to the public at home. Personally, I think they deserve international success, but I'm not that surprised that this song didn't do well when it was dropped since it has a summery feel to it even though it was released at the end of last year. I'm hoping that 2018 brings new Sunstroke Project music that we all will fall in love with. Watch Sunstroke Project host a carnival in a street as a group of children discover what's going on through a gap in a wooden door, fighting over who gets to watch in this bright and colourful music video for "Sun Gets Down".
Sunstroke Project are a three-piece group consisting of Sergei Yalovitsky, Anton Ragoza, and Sergey Stepanov. They've represented Moldova at Eurovision, twice; the first time was in 2010 alongside Olia Tira with the song "Run Away" where they came 22nd in the Grand Final with 27 points. They attempted to return by competing in following national selection shows. Finally, they won, in 2017, with the song "Hey, Mamma!", which was well received by the public at home. They came third in the Grand Final with 374 points. This is the song that followed that Eurovision hit. I am hopeful that they continue to release music and we all hope a brand new album is on the horizon.
Directed by Slava Sirbu, this music video relates to the song with its summery vibe and engaging narrative. The video opens up with a bunch of children interacting with one another. This then pans out to the carnival festival that is going on. The street completely reminds me of Antonia's "Jameia", for some reason, I guess all street sets all look the same.
The one child finds out about the carnival by looking through a hole in a wooden door or gate or fence - I'm not sure what to call that. He quickly rides his bicycle to his friends and tells him about what he's just seen, and they all rush over to watch. Then, one of the children is pulled through the door to enjoy the festivities. The ending, sees someone beckon the other children to join.
As for the performance piece, Sunstroke Project are full of style, class, and fashion. They exude their magical energy and really light up the carnival with their moves and their music. They stand out amongst the festivities while others take centre stage such as the day of the dead woman and the dancers.
Overall, this music video is stunning in concept. It really relates to the jovial sun vibe that is being leached out of the track. The addicting storyline keeps the audience entertained throughout, although I'm quite confused as to why the children run away when the door opens and a hand beckons them in. Otherwise, this music video certainly excites me for future Sunstroke Project songs.
I used to be a massive fan of Justin Timberlake, but my love of his music certainly fell as time went on, and I'm glad it did since I do not like this song, or it's accompanying music video. He's made quite the comeback this year, but it falls short. He is one of the top male singers in the whole world, and yet his latest music hasn't quite slammed the charts as his past tracks have done. Watch Justin Timberlake present to the world the first dancing robot that copies his moves on stage in this futuristic music video for "Filthy".
Justin Timberlake released this track as the first single from his new album, which is his first in five years. Usually, if an artist has waited so long to release an album, you would expect a brilliant collection of tracks. However, he doesn't meet our expectations when it comes to this album, and it really does make us miss his previous tracks. He came back with the awesome "Can't Stop This Feeling", last year which got us all excited about new music, yet this all just falls short, in my opinion. Since his latest singles haven't hit the charts hard, it just shows I'm not the only one who thinks this. However, there's bound to be a surge soon as he performed at the Super Bowl's LII halftime show. This song was written by Justin Timberlake, Larrance Dopson, James Fauntleroy, Floyd Nathaniel Hills, and Timothy Mosley.
Directed by Mark Romanek, the music video is set in 2028 at the Pan-Asian Deep Learning Conference at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He takes inspiration from Steve Jobs and presents his new creation, this robot. He pulls off the geeky-look effortlessly whilst still remaining professional.
This is quite on the freaky side, it reminds me so much of iRobot and all the other robot films where it just doesn't turn out all that great. I keep expecting something to happen every single time I watch this music video, but all we are watching is a dancing robot.
There is a slight twist at the end, but rather than the robot deciding to think for itself and kill everyone, we have Justin Timberlake disappearing from existence. He really is a holographic image! It's an interesting concept of a music video, which becomes slightly relatable to the song as the dancing continues; however, they should've done more with it, there's nothing to keep the audience entertained unless your a robot fanatic and cannot wait to see what this robot does next. Nope, that's not me.
I could've sworn this became a UK number one single, but it turns out that it only hit number 13 in the UK. I'm not sure why I thought it became number one, mainly because the song and music video was literally everywhere back in 2011. It's time for my catch-up blog's Thursday revisit, and I am more than a month behind on my blog, and I totally hate myself for it, so much so that I'm determined to focus in the next few weeks and totally catch up! This music video was totally everywhere back in the day and was filmed in real time, so this tennis match actually happened! Which explains the clarity of the visual. Watch Martin Solveig compete against Bob Sinclar in a tennis match at Court Philippe Chatrier in this music video for "Hello" in collaboration with Dragonette.
Martin Solveig, real name Martin Picandet, is one DJ who continues to bring out hit after hit after hit. This track was certainly the start of his success. In recent years, his music has grown on me a lot, and I was completely honoured to have been given the chance to exclusively interview him for CelebMix. He's been bringing out brilliant songs to date, and I'm still obsessed with "Places". There's no sign of a new album on the horizon, and he even admitted, in my interview with him, that he doesn't plan to release an album, just yet, unless he feels it is right. This song is a collaboration with Dragonette, who currently consists of Martina Sorbara, Dan Kurtz, and Joel Stouffler. They've had a number of hits in their time as a group, although in recent years they haven't had the success that their early years gave them; however, they have an established name and when it comes to this sort of music, it comes in waves and I'm sure Dragonette will return with an absolute banger. The song was written by Martin Solveig and Martina Sorbara.
This music video takes place at the French Open at Court Philippe Chatrier and stars Martin Solveig, Bob Sinclar, DJ Grégory Darsa, Flo Lafaye, Olivia Sanchez, Mathilde Johansson, Novak Djokovic, and Gaël Monfils. Unfortunately, Dragonette does not appear in this visual. There are two versions of this music video, a long version which is part of the series of music videos titled "Smash", and then this shorter video. I may review the longer video at some point in the future.
I'm not sure what tennis has to do with this song overall, but it's comical and great to watch. Who knew that Martin Solveig and Bob Sinclar could play tennis, let alone this exceptionally? I love the fact that Bob Sinclar pretty much thrashes Martin Solveig until the final match point, to which Martin Solveig's love interest, played by Flo Lafaye comes in, and this is where he finds energy and motivation to impress his girl.
During the match point, Novak Djokovic refutes the referee, telling him to check it again. It turns out that Martin Solveig's return is actually in, rather than out. The game continues and Martin Solveig racks up the points to level with Bob Sinclar for the match point.
This is where it becomes interesting, because on comes Gaël Monfils, who will apparently be playing the winner of this match, and therefore is there to scope out the competition; although let's be honest, if that was the case, he would've been there from the beginning rather than appearing at the very end. Martin Solveig watches him walk up to Flo Lafaye, kissing her right in front of him. This is where Martin Solveig gives up and essentially throws in the towel by literally throwing in a towel, and the music video ends.
Overall, the song is about going over to someone and just saying 'hello' and not meaning anything in it and just enjoying the party. Instead, we have a music video all about tennis and competition; there is a love interest, but she isn't saying hello, instead she goes off to someone else. It does have a slight connection as Martin Solveig tries to impress her; however, she's not there to be impressed as she's already in a relationship. It's a very slight connection to the song, but I applaud it for not showing a typical party music video.
Anyone who saw my last blog post certainly expected me to follow it up with this one, since I had just realised that I haven't reviewed any of CeCe's music videos, until now. "Broke AF" was totally one of my favourite music videos from 2017; yet, her debut single "Dead 2 Me" still manages to resonate with me, and I'll never forget the day she dropped this music video. There's just something so incredibly special about this. CeCe really brings it for this visual, maybe because it is officially her debut. Watch CeCe get revenge on her guy who cheated on her in this music video for her debut single titled "Dead 2 Me".
CeCe, full name CeCelia Frey, made her name known by coming eighth in the second series of The X Factor (US). Her vocals are phenomenal, and this track really doesn't do her justice, although it is catchy. If you take a listen to her follow-up song "Broke AF", you'll see how amazing her talent really is. This song and its music video feels like the CeCe that we met during The X Factor, who was almost on the side of arrogant; however, she's grown up a lot since then. The series also made stars out of Tate Stevens, Fifth Harmony, Emblem3, Diamond White, Bea Miller, and Sister C. This song was written by Lydia Vaughan, CeCelia Frey, and Andrew Kremer.
Directed by Patrick Lawrence, this music video has three sections or parts as the video calls them. It's a great narrative from start to finish; although, it's something we've seen time and time again with just a different take on the storyline every time. However, this isn't that much different to others we have seen.
"Act I: The Set Up" starts off with a phone call between CeCe and the guy who has cheated on her. She announces that she totally understands and that "friends kiss all the time" in quite a sarcastic way without giving it away that it's a set up. She invites him to a party, proclaiming that they'll kiss and make up. At the end of the phone call, she tells her girls that "he bought it", before laughing and the track kicks in. They drive to the venue as the first part of the song is sung, with CeCe bringing fire to the track in her performance visuals, which we totally expected.
"Act II: The Trap" sees CeCe's on-screen lover walk on to the set of the party. The venue is deserted as he tries to find out where about the party is being held. He arrives at a garage as the second part of the song kicks in. The girls surround him, as CeCe sings and throws punches at him, which he attempts to avoid until the last one knocks him to the ground.
"Act III: The Party" is the final part, where they drag him to a chair and tie him up. CeCe has on her leopard-print face paint which we're used to seeing from her days on The X Factor (US), as all the girls dance away at the party. She sings the song right in the face of her love interest before they all walk away, leaving him strapped to the chair.
Overall, it's a brilliant music video that completely relates to the song in every way. The storyline has been thought out and is cleverly split into three parts. On the other hand, it's not something new, and this narrative has appeared time and again in music videos.
Have I really not reviewed this yet? OMG! I haven't even reviewed her first music video "Dead 2 Me". What is wrong with me? You know what's coming after this music video review, right? I did write up an article about CeCe's "Broke AF" music video for CelebMix, so that's probably why I missed it. Still, I'm ashamed of myself, because this is one epic music video that should be on my blog! This song is such a raw, emotional, and honest pop-ballad, one that no one can deny suits CeCe perfectly. The music video completely relates in every way. Watch CeCe and Ronen Rubinstein show how in love they are with one another whilst being completely out of money in this loving music video for "Broke AF".
CeCe, full name CeCe Frey, made a name for herself on the second season of US version of The X Factor. She came sixth overall and was a part of Demi Lovato's team. It was that series that made established names out of Tate Stevens, Fifth Harmony, Emblem3, Diamond White, Bea Miller, and Sister C. This song, alone, really shows how far CeCe has come from her first audition. "Broke AF" is a powerful track that is totally stripped back and full of real emotion in every single way. It was written by Jonathan Castelli, Zachary Scott Poor, Hayley Warner, Adam Scott Friedberg, and CeCelia Marie Frey.
Directed by Patrick Lawrence, this music video is a full narrative music video that has a performance piece thrown in throughout as CeCe sings along to the lyrics. She easily portrays the main character and gives it all the emotion it totally deserves. Ronen Rubinstein brings it too, for the narrative, and these two worked perfectly together.
Interpreting some of the lyrics literally, such as the mattress on the floor, this music video easily shows two people completely in love whilst being "Broke AF". The video starts out with our adorable couple robbing a store with water guns, as they clearly can't afford to pay for their items - let alone pay for a real gun to rob the store with. Then we watch their home life, which sees CeCe as an artist, painting a jacket and then painting her name on Ronen Rubinstein's body.
They easily convey two people in love, and it melts my heart to watch. They steal a car and then later returns it, leaving a note; they drove to the top of a hill to look at the beautiful cityscape. She finds a waitress job but feels so down after her shift, only to come home to see the cutest surprise ever from her boyfriend.
Overall, this music video is beyond amazing. It's well thought out and completely relates to the song in every way. CeCe and Ronen Rubinstein bring it, easily displaying the narrative and really getting involved with the characters they are playing. Such a brilliant music video, one I could watch again and again.
I've been avoiding reviewing this for weeks during Chart Mondays, purely because I knew it would be in the Top 10 for some time, and there was bound to be a week where I don't have much choice left. This was the week where Christmas songs dominated the charts, as they do every year. Unfortunately, I had already reviewed all the Christmas song music videos in the Top Ten, so it leaves this one and Rita Ora's "Anywhere" for me to review, but since this is a backdated review, I know for a fact that this one drops out before Rita Ora's song does, so I might as well do this one now. After my first watch, I'm wishing I was reviewing Rita Ora, not going to lie. Watch Big Shaq in Miami performing to the camera and including comedic scenes that relate to his viral track and biggest hit to date "Man's Not Hot".
Big Shaq is a comedic character who is played by English comedian rapper Michael Dapaah. He went viral with this song due to a meme after he appeared on BBC Radio 1Xtra's Charlie Sloth "Fire In The Booth" section where he played both his characters MC Quakez and Roadman Shaq. The previous character released a debut single titled "Balance". It was a freestyle on the instrumental of 67 and Giggs' 2016 track "Let's Lurk" which was first used on 86's "Lurk". It became a complete sensation, and he soon changed the character's name to Big Shaq and then released the song as a single. I very much doubt he'll manage to keep his success and continue having hits, but considering how Michael Dapaah maximised on this popularity, I have no doubt he can do it again. This song was written by Michael Dapaah.
Directed by Marv Brown, this music video starts off with a skit where Big Shaq receives a phone call from Asznee who turns out to be comedian and YouTuber Chunkz. As the video goes on we see various stars appear, including Waka Flocka Flame, Lil Yachty, Jim Jones, Broederliefde, and DJ Khaled, the latter of which calls Big Shaq a "legend".
Throughout, there are some relatable scenes, mainly with Big Shaq not taking his coat off, even when a girl asks him to take off his jacket, or even when he's in a sauna. We sure get that he really isn't hot.
Overall, there's not a lot that I want to comment on for this video. It's comedic to an extent, managing to relate some of the lyrics to the song itself. It's a quality music video with Big Shaq bringing some great energy to the visual, especially when it cuts to one of his gigs. I look forward to seeing if Michael Dapaah can bring another hit to charts around the world; I really believe he can.
Again, I'm letting my iTunes randomizer choose the music videos I should review. This song came up while I was playing my music on random, I have it as part of a compilation album, and I just had to see if there was a music video because this song is addicting in every way. So, that is how I came across this and it is full of fun and totally relates to the song. Watch Martin Solveig, The Cataracs, and Kyle perform as they set up lights and a paddling pool in this fun and cool music video for "Hey Now".
Martin Solveig, real name Martin Picandet, is one of the biggest DJs in the world, and one I am obsessed with after having the amazing opportunity to interview him for CelebMix. He continues to prove himself in the music industry, his music chart positions come in waves, most of the time it takes time for his songs to go viral and become popular, but as soon as they do, they become chart successes. This one had mild success. It features The Cataracs, who was down to one member at this time who was Niles Hollowell-Dhar, he is now known as KSHMR. As a duo, they scored many successes and song-writing hits; and now, as a soloist, he continues to make splashes in the music industry, which is great to see. The same goes for Kyle, full name Kyle Harvey, who totally went viral a few years later with "iSpy"; it truly shows if you work hard and never give up, you get there in the end! This song charted well in some countries, with it becoming a hit in Ireland at number eight. "Hey Now" was written by Kyle Harvey, Martin Solveig, and Niles Dhar.
This music video is pure fun in every single way, which is totally expected considering the overall joviality of the track. To my surprise, Martin Solveig sings this song. I'm so used to him using a vocalist to sing these songs that I so didn't expect to see him singing - that certainly shocked me from the very start.
The whole theme has a Bob Dylan's "Subterranean Homesick Blues" feel to it, only updated to the max - since that old music video was done way back in 1965. It's all about fun in the summer sunshine as they continue to spread the cheer and create words out of the set they have.
Once again, Martin Solveig proves that he's a DJ and not really a performer whatsoever since there's no energy behind his singing. However, he does try his best and he's much better at being himself and having fun. As for Kyle, on the other hand, he brings it with the energy and really gives the camera what is missing.
This totally works with the song, how this didn't become a hit in the UK or the US, I'll never know. We need more fun songs like this dominating charts all around the world. I also think "Kings Of The Playground" would've been a much better title for the song.
I was just listening to "Only You", and realised I haven't reviewed this music video yet; although to be fair, I'm not so keen on this song "Don't Let Me Be Yours". Why did she not release a music video for "Only You"? - Now, that one is a tune. This song was released before "Only You", it wasn't a success at all, compared to her previous songs. The music video is all right, but the scenes with Zara Larsson has all sorts of lighting problems. Watch Zara Larsson perform to the camera while scenes of a woman racing driver are intercut throughout in this music video for "Don't Let Me Be Yours".
Zara Larsson is the Swedish sensation that went international thanks to a collaboration with MNEK that really sent her global with her solo work. She launched well, especially in the UK where her follow-up singles all did well, and we finally got a debut solo album, although she did previously release a debut album which was restricted to certain countries. We haven't heard anything new from her for a bit of a while, so I'm presuming she's working on new music and is prepared to blow us all away once again. This song was written by Zara Larsson, Steve McCutcheon, Johnny McDaid, and Edward Christopher Sheeran (Ed Sheeran).
Directed by Daniel Kaufman, this music video deserved to have been better. It may have the essentials for a great music video with a performance piece and a narrative piece, but it just doesn't work overall. It does have a sense of girl power throughout though.
The narration starts the video off, as we watch a woman head towards a smashed up car in the junkyard. She finds what she needs and takes it back to her racing car so she can compete. At the end, she wins a trophy, which makes the whole thing worthwhile and proves that anything is possible if you fight for it.
I have a total problem with lighting in the music video during Zara Larsson's performance piece. It's clear the person behind the camera didn't take in the sun and the background lighting, causing some really bright shots that swallow Zara Larsson up in light - at times we can't see her at all. Regardless she still brings energy, which we expect. It's clear this song means a lot to her, yet it doesn't work out the way we had hoped.
Overall, this music video isn't memorable at all. It barely relates to the song, apart from the fact that our main character isn't bothered about looking her best, and instead focused on making her dream come true - which isn't really what the song is about, since Zara Larsson sings about a guy who may not like her in the morning when she doesn't look perfect and he has sobered up. Her performance piece would be good if the sunlight didn't get in the way. She makes up for it at night with the burning car, though.
I was trying my best to find a music video to review for this backdated date, but all that was coming up was this specific music video. Annoyingly, it is claimed to have been released on 29 December 2017; however, the video itself states that it was released on 4 January 2018. According to reports, it was first made available on Tidal before making its way onto YouTube. Either way, I'm not spending any more time trying to find another music video to review, as I don't think any others were released. The song isn't to my liking, yet Beyoncé's riffs are certainly perfection - nothing new there. Watch events unfold from 2444 before going into the past, through generations, to present day where Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and Blue Ivy spend time in a church together in this music video for "Family Feud".
Jay-Z, real name Shawn Carter, is an internationally known rapper. Everyone practically knows who he is and the ones who don't, certainly knows his wife, Beyoncé; she is also the featured singer on this specific song. He is one of the best-selling musicians of all time and has been following a career in music for decades. This song is taken from his 13th studio album titled 4:44. The album was released on 30 June 2017, so technically this isn't a new song; however, the music video is new, hence why I'm using it as my new release blog review. "Family Feud" was written by Shawn Carter, Dion Wilson, Beyoncé Knowles, and Elbernita Clark.
Directed by Ava DuVernay, the music video starts off in the future and then goes back in time to present day. It's quite a unique idea, although I bet others have thought of it before him. It has an all-star cast consisting of Trevante Rhodes, Janet Mock, Rashida Jones, Michael B. Jordan, Mindy Kaling, Omari Hardwick, Jessica Chastain, Thandie Newton, Emayatzy Corinealdi, David Oyelowo, America Ferrera, Storm Reid, Brie Larson, Rosario Dawson, Constance Wu, Niecy Nash, Susan Kelechi Watson, Henry Sanders, and Irene Bedard.
It spans almost eight minutes long and starts off with a quote from James Baldwin before starting a narrative in 2444. The score is by Flying Lotus. We watch a man, played by Michael B. Jordan, walk up a flight of stairs, storming into a woman's bedroom, played by Thandie Newton. We presume she is his sister; she's the face of the family and she's still in bed. Micheal B. Jordan's character thinks he should be the face of the family. She's lying in bed with a guy, played by Trevante Rhodes, who gets out and strangles her brother before she stabs him in the side with a knife.
The next scene sees two co-presidents, played by Irene Bedard and Omari Hardwick, being confronted formally about a murder in the family that led to his ascent that refutes his claim for peace. The two co-presidents push back, saying that everyone is family and throughout generations, they've worked together. Omari Hardwick goes on to narrate the rest of the story as we go back in time.
The next scene is almost 300 years ago, in 2148, where we see two protectors keeping watch over a disturbance that hasn't happened in centuries; which they then solve themselves. Back again we go to 2096 where the narrator states: "My family has fought for the law." The clip suggests that in 78 years time a fight will take place that is reminiscent of the cavemen days. America Ferrera appears in this scene. This is followed up by a scene in 2050 which sees a diverse group of women debating. Susan Kelechi Watson plays the adult Blue Ivy Carter, claiming she's one of America's founding mothers. They debate the second amendment - and Susan Kelechi Watson links it to the 13th amendment, which is what the director's Oscar-nominated documentary "13th" is about.
This is where Susan Kelechi Watson takes on a bit of a narrative, introducing us to the present day's scene. She states: "It's like I remember my father saying when I was a little girl. Nobody wins when the family feuds." This is when the actual song finally arrives. Jay-Z can be seen confessing in the church to his wife Beyoncé. She gives some amazing riffs that are added to the backing track. They're both stylish and on-point, fully giving us power-couple vibes in every way.
Overall, this music video focuses more on the film side of this and the story rather than the short song and the clips that go with it. It's cleverly put together but certainly feels long-winded. A long intro before the actual song and the specific clips have been something we've seen many times before, and these sort of music videos come around every few years. It's interesting and engaging, yet there's not enough focusing and understanding going on. Music videos are too short to be turned into films unless done correctly. This just feels like they've tried to compact too much in.
