If there's one act that is going to stun us all at Birmingham Pride's dance arena, it's going to be Kelli-Leigh. Her vocals are amazing and she has sung on some of the most amazing club and house songs about. I am still playing Flashrider's "So In Luv" in which she sang on too. She's always one who deserves much more recognition, she's just not getting enough, but her career is going from strength to strength; she will become someone everyone is talking about soon enough. Watch Kelli-Leigh unleash amazing performance vibes in this sunny music video for "Sun Token" in collaboration with Saila.
Saila is a new music project. This song is the project's debut single, a crossover track with Kelli-Leigh. Real name Kelli-Leigh Henry-Davila, she has been one of the biggest female vocal stars amongst dance and house music in recent years; one DJs want to collaborate with. She's provided vocals to tracks: "Cry (Just A Little)" by Bingo Players, "I Wanna Feel" by Secondcity, "I Got U", "The Giver (Reprise)" & "Be Here" by Duke Dumont, amongst many others. She's definitely one to keep your eye on as she builds and builds on her career. This song is definitely catchy. It was written by Saila and Kelli-Leigh.
Directed by Bipolar Spider, the music video is a pure performance visual, showcasing the beautiful Kelli-Leigh.
She brings her a-game to this music video, and it really works. She looks stunning in the visual and it's nice to see her take up the whole visual rather than share it with another collaborator like in Flashrider's "So In Luv".
If anything, this music video just proves she deserves, not only the spotlight, but a stage. It's where she belongs and I'm so excited to see her return to Birmingham Pride. She's definitely one act I won't be missing this year - well depending on what time she's on.
It's Chart Mondays, and it's surprising to see Clean Bandit at the top with "Symphony" featuring Zara Larsson. I never thought that song would make it to the top, but it managed to get up there, so congratulations. However, I have already reviewed it, so it opens the top 10 of the UK singles chart for today's review, hence why I have chosen Kendrick Lamar, as this song is currently at number 10, and most likely to drop out come Friday, it certainly won't be climbing the chart. I'm surprised it's at this chart position, and I have no idea how it managed to climb to number six last week. Hip-hop is certainly making an impact on the UK charts lately, Kendrick is just one of many who have managed to chart high. Watch this art-form of a music video as Kendrick Lamar totally brings it performance wise with some unforgettable camera techniques in the visual for his single "HUMBLE.".
Kendrick Lamar, real name Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, has been going for a number of years and has fully established himself as one of the biggest hip-hop artists around, yet he hasn't had a full-out hit single, not until this one came along; although, his 2015 album did hit number one in the UK, so we are aware of who he is, but this song is going to be the one song everyone identifies with his name. This one has such a humble message behind it (pun intended). If it weren't for his collaboration with Taylor Swift on "Bad Blood" he may not have been as internationally known as he is; although he has had a range of all-right chart successes before then. Yet, it's this one that has had a major impact globally. It was written by Kendrick Duckworth and Michael Williams II.
Directed by Dave Meyer and The Little Homies, this music video is an art form as many have stated. It's a pure performance visual from Kendrick Lamar, parodying iconic scenes and giving a real take on the world from his perspective.
The first scene sees him dressed as the pope in a cope; before, totally switching it up where he can be seen lying down on dollar bills, shooting them out from a cash cannon. Other scenes including the reenactment of Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper, as well as using a fisheye camera for one scene, and using cross-over visuals to show the difference between photoshop and not.
There are also scenes that mimic a Grey Poupon commercial, as well as a scene where his head is on fire along with the other actors in the scene. Not only that, but rapper Jay Rock and producer Sounwave both appear in this video too.
Overall, Kendrick Lamar has, yet again, given us a brilliant video that easily accompanies the song. It relates to the song effortlessly and easily showcases him, not just as a singer, but as an artist. He goes above and beyond for this video, fully transforming his ideas and the song itself, into this incredibly thought-out video.
The dance arena for Birmingham Pride 2017 is set to go off! They have a whole host of amazing DJs in their line-up and it looks like it's going to be the place I spend most of my time. Tom Shorterz will be one of many amazing DJs set to perform this year, and he actually has a music video for one of his songs, hence why he's a part of my Birmingham Pride Special. Watch people dance to this catchy beat in profile scenes whilst crazy bubbles float around in this colourful music video for Tom Shorterz "Colours" featuring Lucy Love.
Tom Shorterz is one of the rising Birmingham DJs around at the moment. He is one of the DJs behind the leading 2:31 at the Rainbow Venues in Birmingham. It's an event I've always been meaning to go to but never had the chance to; now I might get the chance to experience his club tunes in the dance arena. He also did a killer remix of Katy B's "Crying For No Reason" which became very popular. It's no surprise he is part of the Birmingham Pride 2017 line-up. Featured on this track is Lucy Love. She is a singer/songwriter from Copenhagen, Denmark. This song is originally her song, Tom Shorterz did a remix edit, changing it into a house/club song. I much prefer this version, although Lucy Love's original is definitely interesting. This just shows how amazing Tom Shorterz is.
Directed by David Strindberg, the music video features various dancers in a very colourful setting. Their choreography is controlled and stylistic. It easily goes with the music being played.
The bubbles are an interesting addition to all that is going on, and they certainly keep the audience entertained whilst the scenes focus on the dancers and their moves.
However, there's nothing else for me to comment on for this music video. It's relatable because it's really colourful. It's intricate whilst the dancing rhythmically infuses with the song.
Another amazing DJ that will be playing at Birmingham Pride 2017. I'm so excited that Kissy Sell Out will be there, and is now a part of my blog due to my Birmingham Pride Special. His songs are pretty awesome and he has been going for over a decade now, proving himself as a DJ we all need to get behind. He was, previously, a Radio 1 DJ and has remixed plenty of big songs from internationally-known artists. Watch JJ Inkpen dance in various locations for Kissy Sell Out's music video for his single "Tell You" that features Holly Lois.
Kissy Sell Out, real name Thomas Bisdee, is a British/Canadian DJ and producer. He had his own slot on Radio 1, but his last show was back in 2012. He has collaborated with some of the best, including Tinashé and Angie Brown. His career has spanned over a decade, and he was a fundamental part of the rise of electronic music, especially when he was on Radio 1. As for his remixes, he's done some of the best I've ever heard, and I cannot wait for what the future will bring for him. His career is something many DJs inspire to have, yet there's always more he could do, he just needs one hit song, and with his focused mentality, I'm sure he can achieve this. Featured on the track is Holly Lois. Back in 2010, she was a part of girl group Vanquish, now she's focusing on a solo career. Her vocals are stunning on this track and I'm interested in what the future has in store for her.
Directed by Kissy Sell Out, this music video is a pure performance visual of JJ Inkpen. The dancer also came up with the choreography, for the music video.
We watch JJ Inkpen dance in various settings. There is a lot of foot shuffling going on, which was extremely popular two years ago when this music video was released. It's still quite popular nowadays, but not quite so obsessively over the top as this music video suggests.
The dancing isn't progressive, it looks like total freelance, and it could well have been. It relates to the song every now and again, but it's not fully focused on doing that. Some moves are hilarious though, to the extent where it is abnormal, and not something someone would actually do.
The music video, as a whole, isn't that interesting. The various settings are much more interesting, especially the painted walls, than JJ Inkpen dancing. It's nothing new and nothing exciting and doesn't bring more to the song if anything it distracts from the song because of the comical moves.
I wasn't really planning on including the dance arena acts into my Birmingham Pride Special, but since they have drawn in some big names this year, and since it will probably be the place I spend the most time at, I just had to include some of the acts into my Birmingham Pride Special. The biggest announcement for the dance arena, so far, is Tough Love, who had a total hit with this song, and it is still a club banger to this day, two years after its release. Although, I really didn't want to review this music video after coming across it; guess I was one of the lucky ones who has never seen this video before today; now I can't forget it. Watch this comedic visual, starring Rob van Vuuren daydreaming about being a lifeguard for an outdoor pool, in this music video for Tough Love's song "So Freakin' Tight".
Tough Love are a British DJ duo consisting of Alex Prinzivalli and Stefan O'Brien. They have released a range of songs and have really proven themselves as one of the top DJ duos around. However, they have only had two hit songs so far, this one being their biggest to date. If they can do it once, they can do it again and have another hit song. This happens a lot for DJs, they come and go when it comes to the chart, without lack of trying. This song samples the Jodeci song "Freek'n You". It was written by Donald Degrate Jr.
Directed by Craig Moore, this music video stars comedian Rob van Vuuren. This explains why it's very comedic, and it works well since he is a confident guy and not worried at all about what he looks like. This works because he's clearly a great actor.
A daydream turns Rob van Vuuren into a lifeguard of a busy outdoor pool. He fantasises that there are a lot of girls in bikinis at the pool, which he gets to watch over. He finds suncream in the pool, which the dream character, Rob van Vuuren, imagines sexily squirting the suncream over a woman lounging by the pool, yet it doesn't turn out that way and goes completely wrong.
This happens again in a scene involving ice cream, where the dreamed-up lifeguard comes across two women eating ice cream. He imagines sexily caressing the ice cream over the women's bodies whilst they do the same to him. A choreographed scene ends the imagination and the women are not happy when he grabs for the ice cream.
Rob van Vuuren really gets into the lifeguard character as he drools over the women at the pool. The last scene makes us realise it was all a daydream, and he's just the cleaner. It's comedic, but it's also interesting since there are many men who have daydreams just like this one; although, I doubt they have daydreams inside of daydreams... It's a complex idea for a music video, one that's really unappealing to watch, but they have actually managed to pull it off. Yet, it's unrelatable and definitely something we don't want to see again.
Not my usual pick for New Release, but it makes a change to switch up my blog with a possible future hit single, especially since I'm on a Birmingham Pride Special at the moment, which is currently showcasing some oldish songs; make sure you check it out when you have a chance, by clicking the link. This does seem quite the group, yet it's a catchy number and it works quite well. Watch DJ Khaled throw a party at his house with Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance The Rapper, and Lil Wayne; where they bring a chilled out relax performance vibe in this music video for "I'm The One".
DJ Khaled, real name Khaled Khaled, is a record producer and DJ amongst many other professional titles. He has had a successful career in music for many years and has definitely made a name for himself; although, I reckon this song will become his biggest worldwide hit. Featured on the track is Justin Bieber, who is the sole reason why this track is completely popular, as he is a full-on international star with many hits to his name. As for Quavo, he is mostly known for being in a three-piece group called Migos who also appear in the visual. They're definitely one of the rising hip-hop groups around; I expect to see more of them in the future. Then there's Chance The Rapper, real name Chancelor Bennett, he has been going for a few years and certainly made his name known through collaborations with Justin Bieber and Snakehips on "Confident" and "All My Friends" respectively. Then there's the rapper who needs no introduction, Lil Wayne, who's real name is Dwayne Carter, Jr. He's a multi-award winning hip-hop artist who has had various hits. He truly has established himself as one of the top rappers in the industry. This is quite a collaboration, one that could've easily gone wrong, but it works and this is certainly a future hit. I wonder where it will chart in the UK next Friday. The song was written by Khaled Khaled, Jason Boyd, Quavious Marshall, Chancelor Bennett, Dwayne Carter, Jr., Nicholas Balding, David Park, Bobby Brackins, and Ray Jacobs.
Directed by Eif Rivera, the music video starts off with DJ Khaled's son, Asahd Khaled, in the director chair, in a very cute snapshot. He also appears on the front of the single cover artwork in quite the tropical themed picture. We continue to watch as DJ Khaled talks on the phone to Chance The Rapper, organising a party; whilst he stares at a woman riding up to him on a horse.
The party is in full swing later on as we watch Justin Bieber singing the song whilst adding some awkward dance moves throughout; yet, it shows how relaxed he is in this setting.
The other artists come in at certain intervals and the music video easily showcases each artist. Lil Wayne gets the biggest spotlight of all, which is understandable; and yet, he doesn't take it for granted and works it to his advantage.
There are women dressed sexily in the music video, and we seriously do see this a lot in hip-hop music. It's nothing new; but I admire the fact that they have kept it subtle and relaxed. There isn't much focus on the women which makes a very nice change. It keeps focus on the song as a whole, and this is why this music video works.
It's very relaxed and easily watchable for anyone who is viewing. It's not too much compared to a variety of music videos I have seen. It's calm, sunny, and definitely something I wouldn't mind catching on the music channels. This music video could've been over-the-top and could've been a typical hip-hop party music video. Instead, they drew it back, focusing on the song and the presentation of it. Nice one!
It's Thursday, so it's time to look back on a music video that is 5 years old or more. My only option, really, this week, was Saara Aalto, and I'm glad to be revisiting her since my previous review has had a lot of hits and is currently one of my most viewed posts this month! Saara Aalto will be performing at Birmingham Pride 2017, hence why she's a part of my Birmingham Pride Special. She probably won't be singing any of the songs she has released officially in the past few years, and I fully expect to hear her sing cover versions; I am definitely hoping for Sia's "Chandelier" since she never sang that at The X Factor Tour, which was a complete disappointment, I needed to hear her sing that song. This one is just as impressive though, her range is amazing. Watch Saara Aalto unleash energetic performance vibes, as she sings this ballad debut single "Blessed With Love" that is certainly filled with a lot of heart.
Saara Aalto is an inspiration to us all. She never ever gave up on her dream and her love of singing. She has built her career up and up, and it just shows that if you carry on, if you keep fighting, you can make it. Her voice is stunning to no end. She competed in the thirteenth series of The X Factor, which is where most people from the UK know her from, where she ended up as the runner-up. Coming second is something she's used to, she came second on the first series of The Voice of Finland, and she's also been runner-up twice at Finland's national selection to Eurovision in 2011 and 2016. The show was called Euroviisut, in 2011, but in 2016 they went for a different approach which was called Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu. It was with this song that she competed and came second in Euroviisut 2011. The song is good and catchy; Finland missed out on a good one with this. The song was written by Saara Aalto.
The music video is a pure performance visual, with a slight longing narrative included. She's a stunning performer even five/six years ago.
It's hard to give out a strong performance behind a piano, and only the best of artists manage to pull it off, and it's clear from the get-go that Saara Aalto is one of those artists. She fully brings it, like no other artist, and she definitely had stage presence, even back then. How she never made it to Eurovision, I'll never know.
She looks as if she's in a castle, which goes well with her fairy princess personality. There is clearly a lot of longing in this music video, and she is fully passionate about the song and its portrayal. It's so nice to see her giving it her all but controlling her voice and her acting throughout.
Overall, this music video just proves that Saara Aalto has always been a full-on talent. She's definitely a future international star, and she has recently signed a five-album deal with Sony Music UK and Sony Music Finland. I'm excited to find out what the future brings for her, surely she deserves a hit and I hope one gets released when she's ready. Her voice is amazing and deserves worldwide attention.
There's a new girl group around, and they will be hitting the Birmingham Pride 2017 main stage in just over a month's time, and they will definitely be singing this single. The line-up for the group has been changed over and over again, and they were initially called 5Angels. The constant line-up changes haven't helped them get off the ground, but with a new name, they might just get the chance they deserve, or not - since I'm not so keen on this song. Watch this four-piece girl group called Pink Angels attempt to perform sexily with simple choreography in this music video for new single "Mamma Don't Lie".
Pink Angels, formerly known as 5Angels, are a Czech Republic girl group consisting of Natálie Skotnická, Angelina Shestak, Tereza Haklová, and Nikola Metlová. They have supported the likes of Little Mix and Union J. They definitely have some girl power going on, but are their vocals really strong enough? They seem somewhat lacking in this song, and there doesn't seem to be much of a relationship between the girls. They really need to draw in their connections to one another. It seems like they're all out for themselves, which clearly doesn't work. They could be a great girl group if they embraced it more. The song is all right, but I feel like it could've been better in itself. It was written by Andrew Murray and Alice Chatter.
Much like the song, the music video could've been much better. Directed by Sitcom Soldiers, the visual makes it out that the girls have already made it and that they are some massive girl group. Yet that is not the case and the music video just falls to pieces because of it.
The choreography is extremely basic and the girls have no enthusiasm behind the moves. They start off strong at the start but the moves come off flimsy as time goes on. There's also too much hair flicking, some of the girls nail it whereas others fall short. It just looks a total in-sync mess.
The girls don't even look like they are enjoying this music video or the song, and that really transcends to the viewers. Personally, I was much more interested in the light segmented pillar thing they were leaning against that looked like the middle bit of a revolving door - I want one, I'm not sure why but it'll look good in my room, even though I wouldn't have anywhere to put it. I hope Pink Angels bring it on the Birmingham Pride 2017 stage because if it turns out like this, then it seriously isn't going well for them.
He's returning to Birmingham Pride, Paul Morrell is back and he's a part of my Birmingham Pride Special. I missed out on seeing him last year as he was on early, and the same will probably happen this year. Last year, I was dying to see him due to the fact that he had released a collaboration with Chris Leonard called "Move", the video of which is no longer available, but I'm still obsessed with that song. However, it's this one that is Paul Morrell's most popular video to date, probably because it's a collaboration with professional vocalist Katerine Ellis, who has worked with a variety of big names. Watch Katherine Ellis perform this song in this black and white visual for her collaboration with DJ Paul Morrell titled "That Ain't The Way (To Show Me Love)".
Paul Morrell is a DJ who has been going for many years. He's known for promoting some of the up-and-coming stars. His collaborations include Mutya Buena on "Give Me Love", Chris Leonard on "Move", Sonique on "Only You" and "What You're Doin'", Kimberly Wyatt on "Givin' It Up", and so much more. He had a DJ set at Birmingham Pride 2014, Birmingham Pride 2015, and Birmingham Pride 2016, it's clear he loves performing at this event since he keeps coming back year after year. Establishing a career as a DJ is not an easy thing to do, but Paul Morrell is definitely not one to give up, and slowly it is paying off as he gains recognition all around the UK. As for Katherine Ellis, she's sung so many amazing songs, and even featured on the Gravity soundtrack. She has worked with the Freemasons, Soul Avengerz, Roger Sanchez, amongst many others. This song sure is catchy, but reminds me a lot of Tom Jones & The Stereophonics' version of "Mama Told Me Not To Come".
There isn't a lot to this performance-based music video, where photography was done by Max Ellis. It uses a black and white filter, which doesn't help the visual all that much.
Unfortunately, Katherine Ellis doesn't give off great performance vibes. She fails to interest the audience and keep us entertained throughout.
There's not much else going on, but the editing is intricate, as we see Katherine Ellis appear a number of times in a scene as if they're finishing off the lyrics for one another. It's clever; yet, not engaging.
This music video is not good at all. Katherine Ellis has no stage presence in the visual and as a viewer, it's not something we would optionally watch again. The song isn't so bad though and after a few listens it could get stuck in one's head; yet, the accompanying music video doesn't help the song at all.
She was one of the first few to be announced for Birmingham Pride 2017 and having heard her sing live on The X Factor tour, I just know she's going to blow us away on the Birmingham Pride stage. I wanted her to win The X Factor, and I cannot wait to see what the future brings to her. This is the first time I have come across her songs and I adore this one, it's so catchy and does have a 007 James Bond theme to it as many have commented. Her voice is absolutely incredible, and will definitely take her places, it has to! Watch Saara Aalto sing about a guy who cheats on her with another woman, a guy who had her heart and chose someone else in this music video for her song "You Had My Heart".
Saara Aalto first came to my attention during the thirteenth series of The X Factor, where she placed second overall. Her voice and power were amazing on the show, and she came back week after week, fighting for her right to be in the competition. She proved herself time and time again, winning over the British public. This single was her second release overall, back in 2013. The song is definitely catchy and it's a shame it didn't become an international hit. She's now under the Syco record label, and so she might release a hit song soon, we all hope so. She's quite the fighter and most definitely an inspiration to many. This song was written by Saara Aalto and Teemu Roivainen.
Directed by Marko Mäkilaakso, the music video is both a performance piece and a narrative. In both scenes, Saara Aalto impresses to no end, as expected.
The performance piece shows her stage presence, her killer vocals and her amazing performance vibes. She could literally sing any song in the world and do it justice with her vocals. She exudes confidence and stage presence. She is loving having a backing band and it works so well, assisting her incredibly with the song.
The narrative is highly emotional, as we see Saara Aalto in what looks like a wedding dress, singing to her groom, who is played by actor Sergei Ionin. We later see her love interest meeting a blonde-haired woman, who is played by actress Evi Oivanen. They kiss passionately.
This storyline fits perfectly with the song, as we see Saara Aalto find out about the kiss. He's in love with someone else, whilst she's clearly in love with him. He had her heart and he's just used her. As the final scenes begin, we see Saara Aalto prepared to get her revenge, but we never find out what she does, leaving it up to us to wonder.
Overall, this video is a killer. It's fully relatable to the song, it has an incredible performance piece and an engaging narrative. This deserves to be seen internationally, with the song becoming a global success. Unfortunately, a four-year-old song would never get that chance. Regardless, this will forever remain our little treasure, as we watch Saara Aalto become the star she deserves to be.
We all saw this coming, especially since last week I didn't have a music video to review for Chart Mondays, yet the day after this video got dropped, which was slightly frustrating, why couldn't they have released it last Monday? Regardless, I might've struggled this week, so guess it goes in roundabouts and circles. Ed Sheeran has climbed back to the top of the UK Singles Chart with "Shape Of You" as he's UK Tour kicks off, which opens the Top 10 to my Chart Mondays review. I'm so glad this stayed in the top 10 so I could review it today. It's such a catchy song and it'll be in my head for the rest of the day, no doubt. Watch Zedd & Alessia Cara prove that just one small thing can change everything in this music video for their new song "Stay".
Zedd, real name Anton Zaslavski, has had a phenomenal career to date and has really proven himself as one of the top DJs in the world. This collaboration is just another hit of his. The only thing is that people may get this song confused with another single of his called "Stay The Night" which featured Hayley Williams from Paramore, due to the fact that the titles are very similar. Regardless, the song is another killer and is definitely a song I love hearing in the clubs. The song is a global success, which isn't such a surprise since it has combined Zedd's fans with Alessia Cara's. Real name Alessia Caracciolo, she has been slowly establishing her career, with this song being her highest charting single to date on the UK chart. The song was written by Zedd, Linus Wiklund, Alessia Caracciolo, Anders Frøen, Sarah Aarons, and Jonnali Mikaela Parmenius.
Directed by Tim Mattia, the music video relates to the song easily. It features a lot of back and forth scenes which are similar to that of Instagram's boomerang videos. This effect has been used a number of times in music videos, including Inna's "Gimme Gimme".
We see Zedd and Alessia Cara go about their day; they almost share an elevator but Zedd just misses out. Alessia Cara sits at a café pouring lots of sugar into her hot drink; whilst Zedd plays pool.
We watch a lot of, what I'm calling, boomerang scenes that are all in time with the music, yet as the music video progresses we see Zedd managing to get to the elevator in time. This totally changes the day, which sees Zedd and Alessia Cara spend their days together; and what a lovely couple they make.
It just shows that one small little thing can change your entire day, yet another small thing happens... Zedd doesn't look where he is going and walks into the road, backwards; subsequently getting hit by a car. A distraught Alessia Cara can be seen crying. It just shows that time can be short
It's a great emotional music video, that easily relates to the song. Zedd and Alessia Cara both look stunning in the visual, fully embracing their characters and portrayal of the song. It works well and definitely something I could watch again and again.
WOW! This surprised me, well done Birmingham Pride at getting this act for the main stage tent, she's going to nail it on the day, as this song is pure fire and I'm glad that it is a part of my Birmingham Pride Special. Nadia Rose is proving that the UK really does have great female rappers and she's one of a few rising stars that people are talking about. This video was shot in one exact take. Watch Nadia Rose walk down the street with a group of dancers in tow proving that she's one of the leading UK female rappers in this music video for her song "Skwod".
Nadia Rose has pretty much just launched onto the music scene, having dropped her debut EP in January 2017. She is the cousin of Stormzy; yet, with her brilliant voice, she's totally going to become a star in her own right. So far, she has released three official singles from her debut EP. I reckon more new music isn't far away and an album will follow. I truly believe she'll release a hit single in the future; so I suggest you keep your eye on this female rapper.
Directed by Reece Procter, the music video is shot in one complete take and sees Nadia Rose walking down the middle of a street with backing dancers. She sings along to the song and dances with her dancers.
It's a very cool music video, with Nadia Rose coming off brilliantly. She has this relaxed vibe about her, that I hope I'll be able to see her unleash across the crowd whilst on the Birmingham Pride stage. Yet, there is one major problem I have with this music video.
She's not in time with her backing dancers. There are many reasons why the choreography looks unpolished; sometimes it's meant to be, sometimes the artist hasn't practised with her dancers - which would explain why it looks like she hasn't got a great relationship with them; or maybe, she is just rolling with her relaxed vibe which means she doesn't really care about being in time with her dancers. Either way, it still comes off well.
The announcement of her being at Birmingham Pride 2017, may have been a slight disappointment to those of us who didn't know who she was, but just watch this music video; she oozes stage presence, so I suggest you are in the main tent when she is on stage because we're all going to be in for a real treat.
This trio has been announced for Birmingham Pride 2017, and I struggled to choose a video for my Birmingham Pride Special but settled on this one since it is the one that is the most recent. It's definitely quirky. The group is an electro group who have had mild success since they formed in 2008. Their style makes them one of the most perfect acts to be a part of the line-up for Birmingham Pride; and, yet, at the same time, they are another group I didn't know and so making the line-up even more disappointing. I definitely won't be in the main tent watching them perform. Watch Hercules & Love Affair blur the lines between the explicit and the abstract, layering them within the music video for "Controller" which features Faris Badwan.
Hercules & Love Affair is an electro project created by American DJ Andy Butler, alongside the DJ, the trio consists of Rouge Mary and Gustaph. The group have charted in the US and the UK, with their debut album and respective singles; although it was only mild success. They created the group in 2008, and have been establishing their career and continuing on with this project. They definitely inspire as they continue to release the music they want. The song is from their long-awaited fourth studio album which will be out in July 2017, apparently. This song is in collaboration with Faris Badwan, who is best known as the lead vocalist of The Horrors.
The music video was directed by Rei Nadal. It contains a lot of layers and various different visuals. The scenes are definitely quirky and relates to the song well.
It isn't your typical music video, and it fails to keep the audience engaged throughout. On the other hand, it's different and interesting. You want to know what's going on, yet the scenes get more and more bizarre as the music video continues.
It's quite scary, to be honest. It's not something I would want to watch again, and I'm not so keen on the song either. Regardless, as a whole it's intricate. Yet, it's something I'm not interested in watching again, and I will not be in the main tent when this trio is on stage.
Another Birmingham Pride 2017 act for my Birmingham Pride Special. This was one of the first artists that they announced who I didn't know. It was probably the start of my disappointments with this year's line-up. I am still waiting for some more announcements from Birmingham Pride, surely they have more to this line-up. Anyhow, BETSY impressed with this song, which is her most-viewed YouTube video to-date; her voice is reminiscent of Cher's voice, and with the right song, I truly believe BETSY could be pushed into international success. Watch BETSY perform her song "Lost & Found" in this music video, whilst driving around, acting sexy, and smashing up objects with a golf club; as you do.
BETSY hails from Wales and has released a number of songs. She's fashionable and professional. She landed a job designing at Balenciaga in Paris before deciding her heart lies with music and not with fashion. She is definitely a rising star. She has a distinctive Welsh-sounding voice that is very reminiscent of 90s popular music - her vocals would be perfect for a cover version of one of Cher's songs; or maybe, instead, she could do one better and collaborate with Cher, now that is something we'd pay good money to see! This song is her most popular, at the moment; although, I reckon she'll have much bigger hits in the future.
Directed by Can Evgin, the music video is a pure performance visual with little-to-no narrative included. Although, reasons as to why she is smashing up objects is beyond our ability to understand.
Throughout BETSY looks stunning; well, she's trying to look stunning. Her fashion choices are incredible and definitely makes her look sexy, but there's just something not right, just something that doesn't quite work. I believe it might be her facial features, the brown eyebrows with the blonde hair has always been a no-no in fashion, even though it's definitely kind of trendy at the moment; however, BETSY pulls off the luck like she's the trendsetter and it most definitely works for her. I'm not sure what it is.
There's not a lot to this music video, and I feel sorry for the cat ornament that BETSY smashes to pieces, as that looked really cute! The golf club really does smash the objects to pieces, but it doesn't add much more to the music video. The song is okay, and so is the music video, but I expect BETSY to release something much better and much more popular in the future.
So much new music has been released today for New Music Fridays, I seriously thought I'd be spoilt for choice when it came to writing up my New Release music video review, except many of my favourite singers who dropped new music today didn't release a music video, unfortunately. I'm also not happy that I don't really have the money to buy all this new music today, so I'm hoping I can find a good iTunes discount soon so I can get them all, including this one because I am so happy Vanessa Hudgens is officially back, thanks to this feature on Shawn Hook's track. Get ready because Shawn Hook and Vanessa Hudgens will keep "Reminding Me" of how it feels to feel this lonely, with this very sexy music video.
Shawn Hook, real name Shawn Hlookoff, has been going for many years but hasn't found international success, just yet. He has been focusing on his career and has managed to score some Canadian chart numbers, his biggest being number 23 in 2015 with the song "Sound Of Your Heart", which also found it's way onto the US Bubbling Under The Hot 100 Singles Chart at number five (which basically means it charted in the US at number 105, in theory). He has been establishing his career, and this collaboration has definitely launched him internationally. Vanessa Hudgens is the featured singer, who is one of the hottest actresses around at the moment. She became famous for playing Gabrielle in High School Musical and went on to do some extraordinary things, including Grease Live. As for her music career, it's been up and down... I still think "Sneakernight" should've been a global hit. But after four years, she's back once again and her voice accompanies Shawn Hook's perfectly. This was definitely a great collaboration. The song was written by Shawn Hook, Ethan Thompson, and Jonas Jeberg.
Directed by Aye Tanimura, this music video is mainly a performance piece, with a full-on narrative going on at the same time, as both artists reminisce on their previous relationship with one another whilst being apart and lonely.
The video includes clips of the past, of them two together while being surrounded, mainly, by profile visuals that show them longing for each other. Their memories are what is reminding them of how lonely they are apart.
It's a very sexy music video, with both Shawn Hook and Vanessa Hudgens looking completely hot from the get-go. They easily get into character for this music video, and it's so nice to see how much passion they both have for this killer song. I just love the chorus and how it's flipped depending on who is singing. A killer song and a killer music video, it's just slightly disappointing that it's completely in black and white throughout - with no reason behind the filter.
This was my TUNE back in the day, can you believe it's 16 years old! Since it's Sophie Ellis-Bextor's biggest hit to date, we can definitely expect her to perform the song on stage at Birmingham Pride 2017 - hence why I'm reviewing it for my Birmingham Pride Special, and it sounds so good right now. Why has a DJ not revamped this yet? Seriously, we've had some great revamps in the last year or so, there has to be one for this coming out soon, although this in its original format sounds perfect, and I actually think it could be a hit all over again. Watch Sophie Ellis-Bextor stomp all over the competition in this music video for "Murder on the Dancefloor".
Sophie Ellis-Bextor was one of the defining female British singers back in the 00's, with this song being her biggest hit to date. It became a top ten hit in nearly every country around the world. It's not surprising that it became a hit as it is really catchy. It was the follow-up to her debut single "Take Me Home", which also hit number two on the UK singles chart alongside this massive track, that is still in my head since watching the music video. The song was written by Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Gregg Alexander.
The music video was directed by Sophie Muller, and shows Sophie Ellis-Bextor on the dance floor with her partner, battling it out to win a dance competition. This is the sort of thing I always wanted to be a part of, and yet these sort of competitions were no longer around as I grew older. I love how they include a group dance sequence, called "The Altogether", which is a nice added bonus.
The scene reminds me of the iconic dance competition in Grease the film. Although, Sophie Ellis-Bextor is on a mission to win and will do everything she possibly can to do so.
We see her spike drinks, unravel a woman's dress, plant various objects to make contestants fall over or have arguments with their partners. It really is murder on the dancefloor. She then decides to put the charm on the main judge, who is played by actor Colin Stinton, by acting sexily towards him. The judges crown her and her partner as the winners of the competition; she wins a cash prize and some golden glittery heels.
This music video is a killer. It's fun to watch, and it's great to see Sophie Ellis-Bextor play this intricate character. Comparing this song to what she has been releasing lately, it's quite saddening to see that she has taken a completely different route and really shows why she isn't charting in the UK anymore; however, I'm glad she is releasing songs she wants to release. This song is still stuck in my head, and it was totally my tune back in the day, I hope it comes around again and hits the charts hard for a second time because it's just as catchy as it was back then.
More of my Birmingham Pride Special, and here is a true classic. Boney M. previously appeared at Birmingham Pride back in 2015 and proved to be extremely popular; so, it's no wonder there is a massive buzz about them returning for Birmingham Pride 2017. However, they are definitely not a current artist and one who hasn't had a hit single since the 90's. Whenever anyone mentions their name, instantly their Christmas song "Mary's Boy Child / Oh My Lord" is thought of; however, this song also rose to the top of the UK Singles Chart. Both this song and their Christmas song are UK number ones and they were extremely popular back then. Watch Boney M. perform on a platform whilst clouds roll behind them during this music video for their number one song "Rivers of Babylon".
Boney M. were a four-piece German group who had incredible success in the 70's, 80's, and 90's. They consisted of Liz Mitchell, Marcia Barrett, Maizie Williams, and Bobby Farrell. Ther have been various line-ups since, and it is unknown what line-up will appear at Birmingham Pride 2017, what we do know is that Bobby Farrell sadly passed away back in 2010, so we're not sure how Boney M. will perform without him. What we do know is that Maizie Williams will definitely be in attendance, since they are quotes as Boney M. Featuring Maizie Williams. This song hit number one back in 1978, and as the song slowly fell in the UK Chart, radio decided to play the b-side "Brown Girl In The Ring", which became a hit in its own right, making this single shoot back up to number two on the UK Chart. The song was originally recorded by Jamaican reggae group The Melodians in 1970; Boney M. made the song popular in Europe. It was written by Brent Dowe, Trevor McNaughton, Frank Farian, and Reyam.
There isn't much to this music video, but what do we really expect from a 70's music video? It's a pure performance visual with all four group members giving it their usual Boney M. energy.
There is clearly a green-screen behind them, as they float through the sky. Clouds drift past them in the background, yet it doesn't faze them and they perform like they're on any normal stage.
This is why they proved popular at Birmingham Pride back in 2015, because they ooze energy whenever they perform, and no one can deny that they have amazing voices - their harmonies are on point throughout this song. However, as with many music videos released way back then, the visual fails to keep us entertained, and it all just looks the same. There are also problems with lip-syncing throughout, which just makes this even worse to watch.
My Birmingham Pride Special continues, with this three-piece girl group. M.O were one of the first acts announced for Birmingham Pride 2017, and I'm sure they're going to bring girl power to the stage. They've made a slight impact on the UK singles chart, with this song being their highest chart number to date, but if they keep going I truly believe they'll release a hit song we're all going to fall in love with. Watch M.O perform in a launderette before partying it up with amazing performance vibes in this music video for their hit song "Who Do You Think Of?"
M.O are an English female trio consisting of Annie Ashcroft, Frankee Connolly, and Nadine Samuels. The former was one-half of female duo Mini Viva, who split before a debut album was released; whilst, the latter two were part of a girl band called Duchess until 2012. With all this experience, it's no surprise that they've been pushing this group as much as they can - hence why all their singles have charted in the UK, even if they've not made a strong impact, just yet. This one is their highest peaking single so far, although their follow-up was a collaboration with Kent Jones, yet that didn't chart inside the Top 40. This song is catchy, so it's no surprise it did well and peaked at number 18. It was written by Annie Ashcroft, Francesca Connolly, Fred Gibson, Stephen Gibson, Ferdy Unger-Hamilton, Nicholas Listrani, Nadine Samuels, and Ryan Sudlow.
Directed by Charlotte Rutherford, this music video is mainly a performance piece although you could consider there is a relatable narrative to the song as the girls wonder who their lovers think of when they're feeling lonely. I guess we all wonder that... Well, those of us who have someone there for them, not us single people; although I totally wish I had someone so that I can wonder who they think of when they're lonely.
We watch the girls walk to the launderette in their camo clothes which keeps coming in and out of fashion recently. They go inside, and meet up with their girls, exuding performance vibes. All three girls bring it for this music video.
There's a slight dance sequence, which looks like freestyle. The girls are clearly relaxed around each other; comfortable. They ooze a girl power energy that we're used to seeing from big girl groups like Little Mix and Fifth Harmony; M.O has that too.
They later go through the washing machines and into a private party where they all dance the night away and give us some more amazing performance vibes. It's so great to watch, and if I get the chance to see them perform at Birmingham Pride 2017, then I'll definitely be there at the main stage.
Hard choice today when I had to choose one of RAYE's songs for my Birmingham Pride Special; I almost, almost, went with the Jax Jones collaboration titled "You Don't Know Me", but I decided on this song and music video instead, purely because this is her own song, and the sort of music she wants to sing, whereas a feature isn't necessarily her song and can be used just to get her name out there. I can definitely see her bringing this song passion and emotion on the Birmingham Pride 2017 stage. This song has some serious R&B vibes going on and it's definitely one that easily gets stuck in my head. Watch RAYE perform on an ice rink with her guys around her, bringing it throughout in this music video for "I, U, Us".
RAYE, real name Rachel Keen, is a British singer who has been able to get her name out there thanks to two awesome collaborations, one with Jonas Blue on the song "By Your Side" and the other with Jax Jones on "You Don't Know Me". She has yet to manage to chart with her solo songs, even though she has released four so far, and two EPs. This song is her latest, and I expect that she has many more releases planned, and one has got to be a hit - surely. This song was written by Fred Gibson, Rachel Keen, Charlotte Aitchison, and Jonnali Parmenius.
Directed by Charli XCX - yeah, I'm just as surprised by you are, seeing this name as director - the music video is set at an ice rink. It's a pure performance visual, with RAYE totally standing out, what with being the only female amongst the group.
There are some great profile visuals where she certainly brings some passion to the table with this song, Yet I feel like she has more to give, like there's just something missing.
It's nice to see her relax and spend time ice skating. And towards the end, a guy falls over, which is kind of funny. Clearly, they had a great time on set, it's just a shame Charli XCX stayed behind the camera the whole time. These two must be close friends for Charli XCX to direct the music video. There's not much substance to this, and I would've liked to have seen something more.
It's been a while since this has happened, and although technically one of these top 10 has dropped a music video, they dropped it on Tuesday 18th April, and I'm writing this catch-up blog for 17th April since it's a Chart Monday, so as much as I want to review that new music video, I can't.
So instead, there is no Chart Monday today. Surprisingly it's not Ed Sheeran at the top, although he is still dominating with three entries inside the Top 10 UK Singles Chart. I really do need to sort this out and twist up my Chart Mondays since they aren't really working all that well.
Again, there isn't much of a change in the top 10, and this could be down to Spotify and other streaming sites. I admit that I did like the idea of including streams, but now I'm hating on them because of my Chart Mondays not working out the way I want them to. Here are the songs in the top 10...
I have to admit, I wasn't so keen on this song when I first heard it, now I think it's a banger of a song! This is the only artist who will be performing at Birmingham Pride 2017 who I am a fan of and I intend to see. Out of all the acts that have been announced, it's disappointing to know that I am only a fan of this artist and none of the other announcements, and I so hope they reveal more acts as it's not looking like a great Birmingham Pride at the moment. This is Louisa Johnson's latest single, and it's definitely a grower, although the music video should've been better. Watch Louisa Johnson perform in a plane graveyard, where she throws a party where she's supposed to be on her "Best Behaviour".
Louisa Johnson was the winner of the twelfth series of The X Factor and she has yet to release a debut album. As the winner of the show, you would expect Louisa Johnson to be releasing hit after hit after hit, and that hasn't really happened for her - although I fully love her songs, they're not raging chart successes, and they really need to strategize their next move with her, otherwise she could just disappear like many other winners before her. I've seen her live once at Kiss Haunted House Party, so I know she's going to perform amazingly at Birmingham Pride 2017. This song has not charted well at all, managing to peak at number 48 on the UK Singles Chart, but it could easily climb in the next few weeks. It was written by Ben Kohn, Danny Parker, Pete Kelleher, Tom Barnes, and Shungudzo Kuyimba.
Directed by Sarah Chatfield, the music video is a pure performance visual that sees Louisa Johnson pick up her friends in a bus before taking them all to a plane graveyard where they have a massive party.
It's quite an interesting place to set the music video and they really have made Louisa Johnson look amazing. The profile shots are perfect, seeing her perform her song on the wings of a plane; although there is a blue-filter which distracts the visual.
The choreography isn't anything special but Louisa Johnson is clearly loving every bit of this music video and is just having fun. It may not be completely polished. It may not be perfect. But it's something different. The song is definitely a grower, and deserves to climb up the chart!
