Craig Stickland is a Canadian singer-songwriter. This song is his most popular track to date, and it's no surprise since it is ever-so-catchy. He released his debut album on 15 January 2016, who would've thought that exactly a year later he would be kicking off the European leg of JoJo's Mad Love Tour in Dublin? He's country vibe easily settles in with his gritty rock-side, mixing the two up to create this awesome sound that will, no doubt, bring more popularity his way.
This music video was directed by Aaron A. There is both a performance side and a narrative side; however, the latter is not that developed and has quite a plodding storyline, which definitely coincides well with the song.
We watch Craig Stickland get up and from the couch, caress his piano with his face, get ready haphazardly to go to the bar, where he has a drink that he nurses before leaving.
The narration feels like it's the morning after a heavy session. It easily relates to the title of the song and gives insight into the lyrics. We've all been there, drinking a bit too much, forgetting things including our shoes. We've all had the "Liquor Store Blues" that is blurring our minds.
The performance is full of soulful emotional vibes, Craig Stickland knows how to perform and build up a song; rocking behind his guitar adding passion into the mic. He excites me for JoJo's Mad Love Tour. He's going to open the European shows in ways we can't expect; he will easily gear the audience up for JoJo.
I had very little choice today for my New Release music video review. I narrowed it down to a couple of music videos, but chose this one as it has been officially released as a single and not an instant grat single; although, it has been released as two different versions, an acoustic and a piano version, so not the original, but it's the best I could do. On first watch of this music video, I totally didn't get what was going on, and honestly, I still don't. Watch Shinedown perform their new single "How Did You Love" in this extremely weird and normality-flipped music video, that is completely difficult to even understand.
Shinedown are a four-piece American rock band consisting of Brent Smith, Barry Kerch, Zach Myers, and Eric Bass. They are one of those bands everyone has heard of here and there but haven't really established themselves a global hit. Their most popular song is "Second Chance", which charted amazingly in the US, but did mediocre in other countries. This song is a catchy rock song that you can't help but like after the first listen. It was written by Dave Bassett, Eric Bass, Pete Nappi, and Scott Stevens.
The music video incorporates scenes from the N.D. Wilson-directed film titled "The Hound Of Heaven", pretty much turning this music video into a soundtrack music video.
The film itself was shown at the Raindance festival and is available to download online. According to the website, the film is about: "A girl believes that she is fleeing death, when she is actually running away from her only chance at life. Set to a surreal, nightmarish poem written in the nineteenth century by a homeless addict in London."
The main performance piece of this music video easily transitions with the film scenes that are included. Intricate and full of energy, Shinedown watches the film as they perform in a conceptual split and warped way.
The film scenes used easily spins this music video into an interesting visual. As a whole, it's not something I would enjoy watching more than I have. It messed with my head although, I did find it engaging nonetheless. The song is a killer track and one I could totally imagine listening to again and again. This song deserves to be heard more.
Slightly cheating with this. The song was released in 2012 and so fits my Thursday Revisit review, however, the video was apparently released in 2016, so in theory, I am totally cheating as the visual isn't five years old. However, out of all the artists I've reviewed this week, Rykka is the only one who has released songs five years ago or more. Therefore, I won't tell if you don't. Now this music video contains flashing images, enough that it makes my own eyes go funny. Watch Rykka perform in a fitness music video for her catchy song "Map Inside", with surprising flashing images throughout.
Rykka, real name Christina Rieder, first came to my attention when she sang "The Last Of Our Kind" at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016. She was representing Switzerland and unfortunately didn't make the Grand Final, yet she still managed to make an impression on me. She has gone on to release some awesome tracks and her back catalogue is one you need to look into. This song is a testament of that, it's catchy melody perfectly fits with the infectious lyrics that is full of meaning. Unfortunately, this was never officially released in the UK, and so I'm not able to buy it on iTunes, so it looks like I'm stuck to listening to it on YouTube.
The music video is a fitness music video that sees Rykka performing exercise moves with backing dancers in lycra. Everything's so neon and blazing bright compared to the white background.
The opening scene sees a hand with neon yellow nails turn on a bright pink boombox which is on ladders to the left of the set. This is then followed up by Rykka and two backing dancers preparing themselves for their fitness video.
The shocking part of the video is when the flashing images come into play during the chorus. I dare you to try and not look away; it's near to impossible.
There's not much else to comment on, apart from the moves are basic and easy to follow along to, if you so wish. Also, two new backing dancers appear from nowhere and join this fitness video. Neon lycra is everywhere, which is nothing new, but totally makes this feel more dated than what it actually is. Slightly reminds me of Eric Prydz's "Call On Me". It's not something I want to watch again, the flashing images are way too much! However, the song is amazing and I'd totally buy it if I could.
Another Shenna music video review, purely because I heard her album this week and reviewed it for Outlet Magazine. Awaiting publishing from my editor. The album is completely new and totally something you need to listen to in 2017. Yesterday, I reviewed "So Low", and today I shall review her first single from her debut album. Both tracks just prove her versatility because they are so different from each other; the entire album is beyond amazing, so make sure you check out my review on Outlet Magazine when it is published. Shenna hosts a party whilst she is house-sitting in this music video for "Air Balloons"; as per usual, the party gets out of hand, but what did you expect?
Shenna, full name Shenna Somsmieh, first came to my attention through a PR email asking me to review her album. This email came around Christmas time, even though the album had been released in October. I was ill all over Christmas and New Year with a chest infection, but as soon as I recovered I focused on writing about her debut album: "Made of Gold". The review is in my editor's hands at the moment and is probably ready to go out on Outlet Magazine sometime in the next week or so. This is just the start of Shenna, her unique musical talent is one that doesn't deserve to disappear from this world. This song was the first single from the album and was later followed up by "So Low".
Directed by Lawrence Turner, the music video shows the party lifestyle of Shenna; who hosts a house party when she is supposed to be house-sitting.
The intro starts with messages between Shenna and a guy, who asks her to house-sit. She later tells her friends that she has a house to herself and that some friends can come over. We all know how chaotic it can get when friends of friends invite friends. This was all to be expected from the get-go. Let's just all agree to never ask Shenna to house-sit any of our houses.
We watch Shenna performing at the party, having a great time throughout, whilst her guests also live it up. Two main performance piece scenes include her floating on an inflatable in the middle of the pool, as well as sitting on the side with various friends. She is totally relaxed and clearly in her element. Considering how different this song is to "So Low", she proves that she isn't afraid to sing different songs, and is prepared to bring it in each of the music videos.
The ending sees the house owner return, totally unimpressed with Shenna hosting a party. All the guests run from the venue in a comical way. At the very end, there's a look between Shenna and the person who owns the house, before she hops into a car and is driven away, leaving a guy with a guitar running and screaming after the car. Fun, slightly relatable and quite amusing; this just shows Shenna off in a great light. Keep an eye on her this year!
I have recently submitted an album review of this artist to my editor at Outlet Magazine, and so I thought I might as well promote her on my blog since she has a killer voice with a unique sound. Shenna is a rising star and her unique songs show off her versatility and ability to make any song her own. Her album is definitely one you need to listen to in 2017, so look out for my review on Outlet Magazine, coming soon. Watch Shenna perform "So Low" in a projector-themed quirky performance music video that is totally mysterious and completely interesting.
Shenna, full name Shenna Somsmieh, is a new artist on the scene, she dropped her first record in 2014, and it has been an uphill battle ever since. But just last year she released her debut album, which is like nothing I've ever heard before, totally unique and out-of-this-world. Shenna is one of the ones to watch for 2017, I'm totally calling it now! Her beautiful style and gorgeous looks fit perfectly with her brilliant vocals and flexible sound. This song was her second single from the album after "Air Balloons" which I shall be reviewing tomorrow.
Directed by Moon Culture, this music video is a pure performance piece that totally shows Shenna's stage presence. She totally captures the camera in this music video and proves she is supposed to be in the spotlight.
The projector is quite distracting but shows two images together. We know someone is watching himself on the projector, which makes it an intricate scene.
As for the main performance piece, Shenna shines throughout. She has this stylish presence about her. She adds some great quirks including dance moves and emotional faces to help get who she is across to the audience.
As a complete package, the "So Low" music video is different and intricate, much like the song itself. It relates perfectly and easily shows Shenna in a brilliant light. I hope to hear more new music from Shenna this year.
For a seventh time overall, there is not a song in the top 10 UK singles chart which I can write a music video review for.
This is the first time for 2017, and I bet it won't be the last. However, with the Spotify plays changing to affect the longevity of songs staying high up on the chart, it could be that this is less likely to happen. I have considered stretching Chart Mondays to a top 20; it's not for certain yet, so I'm going to test it soon.
Let's be honest, I'm obsessed with Eurovision, I just can't help it. This song was played on my iTunes last night, and it's been stuck in my head ever since. I was interested in what the music video would be like for this, so I thought I might as well review it in the process. It's such a catchy neat little song that showcases Rykka perfectly. Let's make love like in the "Movies"; Rykka is sexy and sultry in a knowing attitude amongst the coldness of this music video.
Rykka, real name Christina Rieder, first came to my attention when she represented Switzerland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 with "The Last Of Our Kind". Unfortunately, she didn't make the Grand Finals, but her voice resonated with me and I ended up buying the rest of her songs from iTunes. This song is highly catchy and was her previous release before entering the contest. It was written by Christina Maria Rieder, Jeff Dawson, Mike James, Dane Devile, and Warne Livesey.
Directed by Brianne Nord-Stewart, this music video is mainly a performance visual with a slight narrative behind. Rykka and her love interest are shown amongst the coldness, in the lead up to making love like in the movies.
Her performance is on point throughout. Rykka knows how to capture the camera and really shines throughout this music video.
The visual representation is sexy. She has a knowing cheeky smile; it's clear where her thoughts are headed and it easily relates to the song.
Her love interest isn't developed enough and he doesn't take an active role. It's clear she's the decision maker in this relationship.
As a whole, this video is one big tease; much like the song. It's totally relatable and the ending was quite the taunt. Totally inclusive of the audience and utterly theatrical. This would have been a much better choice than "The Last Of Our Kind" at Eurovision 2016. I can't wait to see what the future will bring for Rykka!
Last night I was just heading for bed when I heard The Saturdays' song "My Heart Takes Over". Since I have already written about that music video I thought I'd dip into one of the girls' solo careers. Una Healy has a new album out in February, but no music videos, only live sessions; Mollie King only has "Back To You" so far; Rochelle Humes and Frankie Bridge are focusing on other careers; so that left Vanessa White. I have previously reviewed "Don't Want To Be Your Lover", and so how can I not write about another one of her music videos? Vanessa White is sexy, sultry, and provocative in this black and white video for her extremely soulful track "Relationship Goals".
Vanessa White is one-fifth of girl group The Saturdays, who are currently on hiatus. Each of the members of the group are currently succeeding in their solo careers and so the chances of them getting back together anytime soon is definitely not likely. This song was part of Vanessa White's debut EP; she plans on releasing an album sometime in the future, hopefully. This song originally features Chloe Martini. It was written by Vanessa White, Chloe Martini, and Dantae Johnson.
This music video was created by Vanessa White and Aaron Renfree. The latter name has been a friend of The Saturdays for ages and used to be in S Club Juniors / S Club 8 with Rochelle Humes and Frankie Bridge. It's so nice to see how long friendships from back then, have continued.
The visual is extremely simple with not much going on. Vanessa White is sultry and sexy as she poses and dances in front of the camera.
It came about because so many of her fans wanted a music video for this song, but it doesn't add anything to the song, and fails to keep me entertained, although I bet many straight guys and some girls would love this visual. The black and white filter doesn't add anything more to the video either. I feel this was made just for the sake of having a video visual for this song. Nevertheless, Vanessa White is a brilliant performer.
She's BACK! Kiesza stormed the UK charts three years ago with "Hideaway", and now she has this incredibly funky new tune that easily gets stuck in my head. Since her debut song, she hasn't charted quite so well, regardless of the amazing songs she has been releasing. This is set to be just another song that should've been an international success. Kiesza honours her friend who passed away, by rocking out on her friend's guitar that was passed on to her in this fun and loving music video titled "Dearly Beloved".
Kiesza, real name Kiesa Ellestad, launched onto the music scene in 2014 with her amazing debut single "Hideaway". The song made me a fan of her music, and I have been following her career ever since. She has released some bangers, but not many have heard of them. However, this Canadian star is a fighter and she won't go down without giving it her all, "Dearly Beloved" is just another to add to her collection of awesome hits and I can't wait to see where this new direction takes her! The song was written by Kiesa Ellestad.
Directed by Supple Nam, this music video is a pure performance visual, where Kiesza rocks out to the song whilst wearing a holographic changing colour costume and white Dr Martens in a never ending white space.
The song itself is in honour of her friend Alice, who sadly passed away. Kiesza received the white guitar in the video from Alice and vowed to play the hell out of it. And, boy, does she do just that.
The song definitely links in well with the visual clip, it feels futuristic with an inspiration for disco-themed songs. It's something new and fresh that captivates me easily. As per usual, Kiesza goes all in for the music video.
What can be considered a totally simple, low-budgeted music video, is transformed with completely energetic vibes from Kiesza. She knows how to perform and let loose and it really shows. Unfortunately, there isn't a narrative and there isn't an awful lot to captivate the audience. Nonetheless, Kiesza does the best she can and is totally entertaining throughout.
After reviewing "Impossible" earlier this week, I just had to review "T-Shirt" today for my Thursday Revisit. This was her debut single and totally launched Shontelle as an artist. The song reminds me a lot of Jessica Simpson's "With You", mainly because of the whole t-shirt theme. I'm glad I chose this as my Thursday Revisit, as I'm more than likely never going to feature Shontelle on my blog again. Watch Shontelle parade around her on-screen boyfriend's flat in nothing but his "T-Shirt" on. She ignores her best friends, who are waiting for her and instead relaxes in the apartment.
Shontelle, full name Shontelle Layne, has had two hit singles, this debut song and "Impossible", which was later covered by James Arthur; he's "Impossible" charted much better globally. She's been away from the music industry for a while, apparently working on a third album. She has released a few singles recently but with next to no promotion. She may never make a full comeback; but, then again, all it takes is another hit song. This one was written by Andrew Frampton, Wayne Wilkins, and Savan Kotecha.
Mike Ruiz directed this music video, which is mainly a performance piece throughout. As if she'd prefer a night in around her boyfriend's apartment than a night out with her friends. She could've at least cancelled or let her friends know that she wasn't going. Seemed very rude to me.
All throughout the flat, she doesn't seem all that into this song. She clearly hasn't fully connected with it, and that is very obvious amongst the visuals. She doesn't have any passion behind they lyrics, and even at times, she is beyond happy to have the spotlight on her. Her face beams when she's in the elevator, losing any emotional pretence towards the song.
The video ends with her on-screen boyfriend returning home. She's taken care of the fish by feeding them, as well as changing into one of his white t-shirts. She's looking over his plans on his desk, or she's redesigning them as he walks in. She unleashes a cheeky smile, yet who knows what she's been up to.
This could've been so much better, but as a debut music video, Shontelle was clearly not prepared to be where she was and at times her excitement flooded over any acting possibility she had. It fails to engage the audience or tell a full story. The performance piece is totally lacking throughout.
Okay, so I may have finished my Eurovision Wednesdays, but I feel like I should've covered Måns Zelmerlöw, especially since he won the Eurovision Song Contest 2015; however he's winning song "Heroes" doesn't have an official music video. So, instead, I chose his latest release, which is ever so catchy. Watch Måns Zelmerlöw climb up and down desert hills and mountains, whilst stumbling through a haunting forest, in this "Glorious" music video.
Måns Zelmerlöw came to my attention when he took part in the Eurovision Song Contest 2015; he was a worthy winner with his amazing song "Heroes", which totally made me buy the rest of his music from iTunes. He has really settled himself as a top Swedish male artist, so it's no wonder he won Eurovision 2015. However, it's a shame he hasn't pushed into international success, his follow-up singles to "Heroes" just didn't chart as well globally, which is the same old story we hear time and again of past Eurovision winners. These people deserve global recognition. This song was a promotional international single for his new album but served as an official single in Sweden. It was written by Måns Zelmerlöw, Jez Ashurst, Emma Rohan, Paddy Dalton, and Phil Cook.
It was directed by Mikeadelica, and shows visuals of Måns Zelmerlöw being in different scenes, from a forest to a desert to a mountain. It's beautiful throughout and very relatable.
The forest is my favourite part, although I would like him to remove some of his clothes, wouldn't we all? The lighting is purely spectacular as the light technicians make it eerie and beautiful at the same time.
In other potential narrative scenes, we see Måns Zelmerlöw running up a mountain and desert hills as well as through a forest, before climbing back down.
Although this song isn't a cover version of Cascada's Eurovision 2013 song "Glorious", Måns Zelmerlöw has totally put all the emotion possibly needed and proved he is meant to be an international star. He deserves global success.
After stumbling across them for my New Release this week, as they released "Compass", I had to explore their other music videos; especially since they are going to become a Disney boy band this year! This one is so catchy, much like "Compass", I seriously think they've won me over, and I shall be buying their songs as soon as I can afford to do so. In this comedic music video for "Enough About Me", Forever In Your Mind goes up against three girls in a series of dares at high school. Will there be a sequel? We sure hope so.
Forever In Your Mind are a three-piece boy band, that first made their name known when The X Factor (US) put them together. After a line-up change, the group currently consists of Emery Kelly, Ricky Garcia, and Liam Attridge. Recently they have announced that they will have their own TV show on the Disney Channel, called "Forever Boys". This is bound to bring them more success, they could literally be the next Jonas Brothers, and that is saying something because look where they are now! The song was written by Liam Attridge, Ricky Garcia, Bill Grainer, Emery Kelly, and Doug Rockwell.
The music video is a fun battle between the Forever In Your Mind guys and three girls, as they each pick a random dare from a jar. These dares are then later played out, some of which emphasises the boys' performance side of the music video.
There are a total of 10 dares. These are, in order: eating a hot chilli pepper; dancing on the tables in the library; disco dancing in 80's suits; jumping into a swimming pool, fully clothed; feet tickling; take silly selfies; moonwalk along a crossing; Ricky Garcia gets his hair platted; do the ice-bucket challenge, or it's just pouring water over their heads; walk around in pyjamas.
The boys end up doing the most dares, so I would say they won this battle. However, focus was on them the whole time, for the purpose of this music video, and so they had to be seen the most; especially considering the girls aren't a part of Forever In Your Mind.
As for the performance side of things, Forever In My Mind pulls off a school corridor amazingly. They have so much energy and are ready to try all sort of new things in front of the camera. They aren't afraid at all, and it's amazing to see. Imagine what they'd be like live. If they put all this much effort for a music video; on a stage, they'd be lightning! And considering they totally held back in the "Compass" music video means these guys are already made stars!
For a sixth time overall, there is not a song in the top 10 UK singles chart which I can write a music video review for.
This is the first time this has happened in 2017, however, the chart was announced on Friday, so it still counts as a 2016 chart. Could we possibly do Chart Mondays properly each week from now on? With the Spotify plays changing to affect the longevity of songs staying high up on the chart, it could be that we have a new Chart Monday!
Whilst I was in A&E today, totally suffering and slightly worried an asthma attack would come on, this song was constantly flooding my head. I have no clue why maybe I heard it on the radio before being dropped off at the hospital; who knows? Anyhow, this song first came to my attention when Fifth Harmony sang it on The X Factor (US) at Judges Houses, then James Arthur released it as his winner's single from The X Factor (UK). But I chose the original version because you can't really beat it, even if the covers are fantastic. The "Impossible" music video shows Shontelle's relationship unfold as the guy, Steph Jones, doesn't love her as much as she thought he did.
Shontelle, full name Shontelle Layne, has had a couple of hits in her career, namely this one and her debut single "T-Shirt". She was expected to release her third studio album in 2013, but time is definitely getting on now, and no word about a new album has come forth. Is this a star that slowly disappeared from the limelight? It isn't much of a surprise, especially when James Arthur covered this song and charted much better globally than she did. Will she make a return, it's more than likely, eventually; but, whether it'll be a successful comeback, is something we can't be certain of. This song was written by Arnthor Birgisson and Ina Wroldsen. No wonder it was a hit song, especially with the latter songwriter.
Directed by Taj Stansberry, this music video incorporates a performance and a narrative, with the main focus on the narrative throughout. Her love interest is played by singer/songwriter and actor and model Steph Jones.
The storyline shows Shontelle walking away from her relationship with her on-screen love interest Steph Jones. She looks back over all the good and bad times during their music making days. These past clips aren't easily known as her past and can be considered confusing to start off with.
There are many performance scenes, but she doesn't really connect with the song throughout. She obviously cares for the song but doesn't put enough passion behind her performance of it. Which is probably why people claim that James Arthur's version of "Impossible" is better, or even the Fifth Harmony cover during The X Factor (US).
The rest of the music video isn't all that interesting, many scenes are shown that we have seen plenty of times in other music videos. It's intricate but not as engaging as we all hoped it would be.
This is later than anticipated, and I'm sorry about that. Yesterday, I was in A&E at the hospital, getting checked over. I believed I was close to having an asthma attack; instead, I was told that I have a chest infection. I am now on tablets for the next week or so. I have changed the date of this blog post to New Year's Day, even though, technically, it's the 2 January today. But, shush, I won't tell anyone if you don't.
Guess what? Last year, I decided that my New Year's Resolution would be to blog every single day of 2016. I DID JUST THAT! And when I was ill or away from home, I did some catch-up blogs so that I was back on track. I actually can't believe I managed to review a music video once a day for the whole year. This is the first time I've ever accomplished that!
Now, it's time to reveal some of my plans for this year.
Obviously, the main thing is to write a music video review a day, much like I did during 2016. However, there are plenty of other plans I have in store.
1) Start up Artist Of The Month once again. This is an important part of my blog, I just wish it was as easy as it sounds.
2) Easier navigation to your favourite artists. This will allow you to see all the blog posts about your favourite artists' music videos. At the moment, I haven't got much navigation apart from New Releases and Chart Mondays, but I am planning to change that.
3) Exciting new pages will entice you to explore my website a bit more; as well as, links to the other websites that I post articles on, as I don't advertise them enough on here.
I hope you all had a good Christmas and New Year. If there's a music video you want me to review, feel free to suggest it to me on my Suggestions Page (I had no suggestions this year); or, alternatively, get in touch on Twitter or Facebook; I love to chat with you guys.
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.
