Finland Entry: Sandhja - Sing It Away



Sandhja was the entrant for Finland this year, and is next on my Eurovision 2016 Special. Finland's answer to Kiesza, I was expecting this to do well, but her vocals wasn't quite on point on the night and the song was was easily forgotten during the first Semi-Final. With a score of 51 points, placing her 15th, Sandhja didn't have much chance. However I liked the song, hence why it's on my blog. Sandhja gives a memorable performance in this music video for Sing It Away, featuring great backing dancers and a visual narrative.

Sandhja, full name Sandhja Kuivalainen, has already established a fan base in Finland, with two studio albums already released, she is making her own impact. Sandhja has Indian roots and she flew out to Guyana and Jamaica for inspiration on her second album, that was released last month. This competition has given her some international exposure, even if the song didn't make the Grand Final. Sandhja won the Finland national selection through Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2016.placing first in the jury vote and third in the public vote. The song was written by Sandhja, Milos Rosas, Heikki Korhonen, Petri Matara and Markus Savijoki.

Released under her vevo account, Sandhja's music video is mainly performance-based. Taking place in a children's playground park, where Sandhja shows her club dance moves whilst surrounded by a group of backing dancers, much like she was during the Semi-Final.

Sandhja has a classic performance vibe about her, definitely reminding me of Kiesza's "Hideaway". She looks great and the song is definitely catchy, the video and the song has girl power vibes throughout.

The short narrative scenes suggest that you should let your imagination go wild, and that dreams do come true. The child who is drawing a picture of a horse and a rider, is then seen in the future riding a horse.

The video is inspiring and teaches kids to go after what they want in life, and not let anyone get in their way. Just Sing It Away.

Overall a great performance piece, that should've been replicated well at Eurovision, but coming on first didn't help all that much and her nerves unfortunately got the better of her. The narrative side is short but inspiring. I can't wait to hear more from Sandhja.
Buy on iTunes

UK Entry: Joe And Jake - You're Not Alone



Well I thought Joe and Jake hadn't released a video, but guess I was wrong. I always review the UK entrant to the Eurovision Song Contest for my Eurovision Special so that I am not just choosing my country over other countries. Honestly, this is a grower of a song, but on the night, the nerves clearly got the better of them, failing to capture the audience the way we all expected them to do. Performing in front of '200 million people' (according to Måns Zelmerlöw), clearly got the better of them. As for the music video... Joe and Jake perform You're Not Alone whilst a wall of lights change colour. Jake Shakeshaft is stiff and unrelaxed as Joe Woolford totally out performs the song. This duo look more alone than together.

These two formed a duo after competing in the fourth series of The Voice UK. Joe Woolford was on Team Rita Ora and got to week two of the live shows. As for Jake Shakeshaft, he was on Team will.i.am, where he was eliminated during the knockouts. They paired up and entered Eurovision: You Decide, where they won the UK national final, not that there was much of a choice. They were a clear favourite, but this song is a total grower, not for Eurovision unless you are going to promote it and give a brilliant visual performance, which didn't happen on the night. The song was written by Matt Schwartz, Justin J. Benson and S. Kanes.

The music video is a pure performance piece. They don't work that well as a duo, their on-stage presence is either too much from Joe Woolford or not enough in the case of Jake Shakeshaft. They don't mesh at all, and the ending looks completely awkward.

Joe Woolford is a natural performer, however he totally is trying too hard. He's loving every minute of the music video and everything that goes with being part of Eurovision.

Jake Shakeshaft just looks like he's embarrassed, he's not sure he wants to be here, let alone sing this song for Eurovision. He hides behind his guitar in the opening of the video, and even when he puts the guitar on his back, he's not as involved as he should be.

Overall this is a slight improvement on the Grand Final performance they did last Saturday, but this wouldn't have helped them get a better result. It's an all right effort, but considering what the rest of the world is sending for Eurovision, with great promotion, the UK needs to pull something out of the bag.
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Chart Mondays: DJ Snake Featuring Bipolar Sunshine - Middle



With Drake's "One Dance" still at number one in the UK and still without an official music video, the top 10 is available for my Chart Mondays' review. This is currently at number 10 on the UK chart, and with Justin Timberlake's "Can't Stop The Feeling" set to top the charts next Friday, I thought I'd review this music video. What a mistake that was, because this is absolutely brilliant, and might have me writing for days! DJ Snake and Bipolar Sunshine give a brilliant music video for Middle, with actor Josh Hutcherson and actress Kiersey Clemons giving a superhero portrayal of love and hurt, how can you not love this video?

DJ Snake, real name William Grigahcine, has had hit single after hit single. He produced Lady Gaga's album 'Born This Way', which earned him a Grammy nomination. He is definitely the one to watch in music lately and I'm pretty sure we will be seeing a lot more of this global sensation. He also has a sneaky role in this music video. Bipolar Sunshine, real name Adio Marchant, is an upcoming English singer who's name is certainly being used quite often. However maintaining popularity isn't always an easy thing to do. His singles have charted in the UK, nothing of impact, just yet. Surely this song would've helped. The song was written by William Grigahcine, Aaron Kleinstub and Adio Marchant.

A Colin Tilley directed music video, it's no wonder it's so good. As mentioned above, the actor Josh Hutcherson plays the superhero and the actress Kiersey Clemons plays the love interest.

Our main character feels lost and alone, he doesn't quite fit in the world we live in. He stretches his imagination out into his reality, making himself a superhero, who still doesn't fit in.

He comes across a girl who is dressed as a superheroine, suggesting she has the same feelings as he does; not quite fitting in society. They join up and stretch their imagination together; flying through the streets, climbing walls, as well as bedroom entertainment.

The next morning, she's gone. He searches for her, but can't find her. At this point he passes DJ Snake on the street in a surreal scene. He gets to a sidewalk that tells him not to cross, and in a suicide attempt, or maybe just an attempt at flying that goes wrong, he crashes into a taxi. And guess who's in the back, it's Kiersey Clemons with her boyfriend, not dressed up as a superheroine.

Hurt and betrayed, Josh Hutcherson is all alone and in a lot of pain from the crash. Kiersey Clemons returns at the end, helping him to heal.

It's a great story about being lost in the world, but having someone who is lost with you, that's true love, but there's also a perfect betrayal that you don't really expect. Yet, as usual, the guy is ready to take the girl back. Boy has she got some explaining to do.

A brilliant narrative of a music video, that relates perfectly and effortlessly with the song. Two very well-known actors too, with this on rotation on the music channels, it's not surprising this song got in the top 10 of the UK chart.
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Moldova Entry: Lidia Isac - Falling Stars



A typical Eurovision song that definitely should've made the final, but it all went wrong. With only 33 points in the first Semi-Final, Lidia Isac's music video for Falling Stars is my next video to review for my Eurovision 2016 Special. This was a good song with a good performance. However on stage, with Lidia Isac, was an astronaut, which is a definite no-no when it comes to Eurovision. Lidia Isac gives a great performance of Falling Stars in this music video, going with a plain theme and a simple visual.

Lidia Isac has been competing in Moldova's national finals for the past four years, finally succeeding in 2016. Previously she entered either as a solo singer or as a duo in group Glam Girls. This amazing vocalist should definitely have made the final of Eurovision, if it weren't for that astronaut. End of the day, she has stunning vocals, and definitely deserved to win O Melodie Pentru Europa 2016, just a shame she didn't make the Grand Final. With strong vocals, and her desire to work in music, I'm sure this won't be the last we hear of Lidia Isac. Maybe she'll take another shot at representing Moldova, she certainly has the voice to do well in the competition. The song was written by Gabriel Alares, Sebastian Lestapier, Ellen Berg and Leonid Gutkin.

The music video has no substance to it, her strong vocals are complemented by a strong performance that she definitely displayed during the first Semi-Final, however there's no sign of an astronaut in this video.

Slightly more understanding, this video is a pure performance piece that includes falling star confetti, which definitely links in with the song.

No more visuals, Lidia Isac does the best she is given with, much like on the day of the first Semi-Final. There was nothing more she could do in this video or on the Eurovision stage. Hopefully, she'll make a much deserved comeback, because with a voice like that, who needs theatrics?
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Switzerland Entry: Rykka - The Last Of Our Kind



Have I just watched some Sia promotional video? This certainly isn't anything professionally official, and yet is is classed as the official music video for the Switzerland Entry into the Eurovision Song Contest, which came 18th in the second semi-final with only 28 points. Actually a really nice song, but the performance totally let itself down. Rykka performs side-on during this emotional song that is not portrayed visually at all, but is definitely better performed than her Eurovision performance, although visually it isn't.

Kicking off my Eurovision 2016 Special is Rykka, real name Christina Rieder. She comes from Canada, and originally released acoustic folk music under her real name, She soon developed a taste for pop music and Rykka was born. She is on a new path now and although she failed at Eurovision, it may not be the last time we see her, clearly she's a trier, and triers always come on top, eventually. The song is about standing for love at the end of the world. It was written by Christina Maria Rieder, Mike James, Jeff Dawson and Warne Livesey.

This music video is completely bland. Rykka stands out purely because there is nothing else in the video, just black space.

Rykka is put on a spotlight, but there's nothing to watch because she isn't even looking at the camera, and as for performance vibes, they are aimed the wrong way.

There is just nothing to this, nothing for me to comment on, and I am pretty sure Rykka is a much better performer than she is in this music video. She showcased that during the Semi-Finals, apart from her awkward knee-bending that made no sense whatsoever. However, great song that would've done well if not for the performance of the song.
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New Release: CAZZETTE & AronChupa Featuring The High - She Wants Me Dead



This is one massive collaborative effort, not only is CAZZETTE joining forces with AronChupa and The High, they also join forces with Hello There Games. This is not the first time an artist has worked with this gaming company, they follow in the footsteps of Avicii, who released 'Avicii | Gravity', however switching it up entirely making a whole dramatic music video which is more like a prologue to the game. CAZZETTE, with the help of AronChupa and The High gives this entertaining music video for She Wants Me Dead, featuring a survival rhythmic game of the same name.

CAZZETTE is a Swedish musical duo consisting of Alexander Björklund and Sebastian Furrer. Friends with Avicii, they have toured and performed with the DJ. Attempting to make an impact with their own music, already slightly known in their home country, their music is ready to hit the world. They just need much more promotion. AronChupa, real name Aron Ekberg, gained prominence in 2014 with his song "I'm An Albatraoz" which topped the Swedish chart as well as peaking at number 25 here in the UK. His follow-up singles didn't fare so well. He is one fifth of band Albatraoz, who are part of Byttorps IF, which is a fourth division professional football club. Music is a side project as they all focus on their football careers. As for the featured artist, The High, I can't find any information whatsoever, apart from The High being a UK vocalist. If anyone knows anything more than that about The High, please let me know below. The song overall is catchy, definitely something I would listen to over and over again. Quite reminiscent of a few songs, especially "Tom's Diner" by Suzanne Vega & DNA.

The video is a fully narrative animation piece that is in almost total black and white. The video has segments of the game shown in certain scenes, allowing the viewers to see actual game footage.

Lula is our main character, she is a cat who is not happy with the way her owner, Max, is treating her. Pushing her off the bed, spilling toothpaste on her face, not letting her eat the goldfish. So Lula hacks a plan to get her own back, she will kill Max. First she kills him when he wakes up, an axe to the head. Then she sends a missile to his apartment.

Lula is an eccentric. She has an extremely vivid imagination that we are clearly invited into. In theory the narrative has a weird ending, because Lula ends up killing Max twice from what we can see, even though she has many different plans.

I am not so keen on the black & white theme, however it goes with the game as the game wouldn't work in full colour. On the other hand it makes the music video and the game cheap and low budget, and although the low budget games are usually the best, this doesn't quite meet expectations.

As for the game itself, it's difficult to play, and gets more challenging in itself. A very unique idea, where the game changes to the beat of the music. Intricate and detailed, it totally works well. Very addicting and slightly aggravating, this will have you screaming with joy to get to a checkpoint, and throwing your phone when you have to start from the beginning again.

Overall a brilliant idea of a collaboration, the first music video prologue to a game I have come across that works amazingly as a promotion for the game, the song, the artists and the game developers. Great idea, great translation, dysfunctional narrative full of illusion with a double confusing ending.
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Jennifer Lopez Featuring Jadakiss & Styles - Jenny From The Block



Back to when J Lo was on top! Jenny From The Block is definitely her signature song. Another song and music video that hits back at the paparazzi and how they can change a star, especially since celebrities can't do normal things because photographers are following them everywhere. Many artists have done songs and videos in reference to this, so I'm not surprised that J Lo has done one too. Jennifer Lopez gives us an insight into her life, showing she has no privacy. No matter what she'll always be Jenny From The Block.

Jennifer Lopez was at the height of her career at this point, hitting track after hit track. She still hasn't released a Greatest Hits album, although she definitely needs one as there are many amazing singles in her collection. Although this song only got to number three, here in the UK, it's still recognised as one of her biggest singles, purely because no one else can cover the song unless they themselves are also called Jenny. The song samples many other songs which are "Heaven And Hell Is On Earth" by 20th Century Steel Band, "South Bronx" by Boogie Down Production as well as "Hi-Jack" by Jose Fernando Arbex Miro, this caused controversy because The Beatnuts also used "Hi-Jack" on their song "Watch Out Now" and they believe their sample of "Hi-Jack" was used. They received royalties for this song. This is why there is a lot of song writers, who are: Jennifer Lopez, Troy Oliver, Mr. Deyo, Samuel Barnes, Jean Claude Olivier, Jose Fernando Arbex Miro, Lawrence Parker, Scott Sterling, Michael Oliver, David Styles and Jason Phillips. The latter two are the rappers who are featured on the track, they are mostly known from the band The LOX.

The video was directed by Francis Lawrence. It has Ben Affleck as the love interest, who was Jennifer Lopez's fiancé at the time. They were known by media as Bennifer, and they broke off their engagement citing the media interest as the main reason.

This entire video shows that they didn't have any privacy in their relationship, no matter what they did, the media knew what they were doing. This has been the case with lots of stars and they hit out through music and the videos, just look at Britney Spears' "Piece of Me", "Everytime" and "I Wanna Go".

The performance side to the video, works perfectly, Jennifer Lopez definitely knows how to perform, which goes without saying, she would be amazing to see live.

Overall an impactful music video that covers something that will always be an issue. It accompanies the song well, but it doesn't stand out, we've seen J Lo with much better videos. A signature song, with a signature scene and a common theme, that we've seen a lot of already.
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Dove Cameron - Genie In A Bottle



After reviewing Sofia Carson's "Love Is The Name", how can I not review Dove Cameron's cover single? Singing the amazing debut single from Christina Aguilara "Genie In A Bottle" will always be one of my childhood songs, now Dove Cameron has released it to a new generation. Playing her 'Descendants' character, Mal, daughter of Maleficent; Dove Cameron becomes a genie in a bottle, in this magically induced music video.

Dove Cameron is one of a few new Disney stars who will become part of the next batch of Disney superstars! On the tails of Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers; Dove Cameron has been trying to kickstart her music career whilst doing well on the Disney Channel. She is mostly known for playing Liv and Maddie in the show of the same name. She is also one half of The Girl and the Dreamcatcher. She is currently filming the fourth season to 'Liv and Maddie' and plans on being in 'Descendants 2', which I am so excited about. This song is a cover of the Christina Aguilera hit of the same name, written by David Frank, Steve Kipner and Pamela Sheyne.

Directed by Jay Martin, this music video coincides with 'Descendants: Wicked World' animated series. It includes the famous Aladdin lamp.

Mal gets swept up inside the lamp after she rubs it. Mal explores and is transformed into this beautiful Genie. The love interest is quite sinister, hiding in the shadows.

The dancing and choreography is on point through-out, Dove Cameron shines, she is a perfect performer and the spotlight is on her.

The ending doesn't reveal the love interest and leaves a few questions unanswered. But it works nonetheless.

An innocent music video for a not-so-innocent song, that children are too innocent to understand. It wasn't until I was older that I realised how sexualised this song was, and I had been singing Christina Aguilera's version since I was six years old. Great production piece overall, works well with the film and the series, and I cannot wait for 'Descendants 2', just hope it's not too long of a wait.
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P!nk - Just Like Fire



P!nk is back with a whole new track that I have fallen in love with. I used to be a massive P!nk fan, but after her most recent album, I went totally off her. Personally, I believe she went down the wrong path and released an album that wasn't her at all. However artists are meant to grow and learn from their mistakes, even if that album and it's corresponding singles did well globally. Now she's recorded a song for the new film 'Alice Through The Looking Glass' and I can't wait to see what path it takes her down, hopefully it's not a rabbit hole. P!nk inspires her inner Alice and the Mad Hatter in this music video for the feature film. Just Like Fire is a perfect representation of the film and the song.

P!nk, real name Alecia Moore, most recently became a part of a duo called You + Me with Dallas Green, who is known under the stage name City and Colour as well as one of the members of rock band Alexisonfire. Now she's back releasing her own music, has her style changed with her new songs once again? Will she make me a fan of her music again? Well, if her new music is anything like this then I might just reinvest in her albums! Just Like Fire was written by Alecia Moore, Max Martin, Karl Johan Schuster (Shellback) and Oscar Holter.

Directed by Dave Meyers, the music video takes place in P!nk's home, where's she's just hanging around whilst keeping an eye on her child, Willow Sage Hart. Her husband, Carey Hart, comes in to ask if she's going to hang around all day. To which P!nk clearly ignores that and continues to silk dance.

P!nk's daughter, Willow, takes an active role in this, she follows the blue butterfly through the mirror, and just like a great parent P!nk follows her through into the mystical world of Wonderland.

She walks into a chess like game where P!nk clones are the actual chess pieces, the game is confusing, but what part of Wonderland isn't confusing? P!nk looks amazing in this visual shot, perfect costume and amazing hair, as always. A slightly freaky scene that must've taken forever to make and edit.

Naturally the mad hatters tea party makes an appearance. She could pull off being his wife so easily. Then she falls but stops mid-air whilst Time keeps an eye on her. He goes and talks to Willow, which makes P!nk fight to be let down, a mother's instinct. Intricate images and clips are used next, from both the film and from P!nk being sent to a mad house.

A great ending, with a magical middle and a brilliant opening. P!nk shines throughout, showing off her performance skills and on-stage presence. An amazing song and music video for Alice Through The Looking Glass. We all had hoped for an Avril Lavigne follow-up to "Alice", but this does it justice! A perfect, faultless music video.
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Sofia Carson - Love Is The Name



The new batch of Disney stars is upon us, with the helping hand of amazing Disney film Descendants which is already in talks of a sequel, two stars are to hit the music industry hard. Dove Cameron and Sofia Carson are the next Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez. Amazing actresses, singers and all round performers, they're the ones who will be topping the charts all over the world in the next decade or so. Watch out for them both. Sofia Carson is the first on the scene with this typical summer tune, singing on point, dancing on point, and looks on point, this gorgeous girl will go far!

Sofia Carson's big break was as Evie in Disney's 'Descendants', she plays The Evil Queen's daughter and has been confirmed for the sequel to be released next year. I fell in love with the film from the get-go, magical performances, amazing songs and great acting, even my parents loved the film, and that's saying something since they don't like musicals/ It was directed and choreographed by Kenny Ortega, who did 'Dirty Dancing', 'Hocus Pocus' and 'High School Musical'. Sofia Carson has many other roles lined up in the future, and I'm excited to see her turn up in many more films and tv shows. She's a star in the making, so it's not surprising that Hollywood Records and Republic Records signed her up on a joint worldwide record deal. This is her first single since signing, written by Steve Mac, Ina Wroldsen, Ewald Pfleger, Guenter Grasmuck, Peter Niklas Gruber, Herwig Tremschnig and Kurt Plisnier, the song interpolates Opus' "Live Is Live". Very catchy, this is the song that gets stuck in my head easily, definitely a hit, a great first single. An exclusive version was also released featuring J Balvin.

The video was directed by Brandon Bonfiglio, a pure performance piece that definitely makes Sofia Carson centre of attention, beautifully styled and looking gorgeous she is definitely the next Disney star.

A lot of accomplished choreography in this music video, that is performed effortlessly. Sofia Carson puts all her effort in this music video, as if she is back on Descendants.

The solo performance pieces are beautifully done although Sofia Carson looks slightly uncomfortable attempting to look sexy. Her red dress fades into the red background which definitely doesn't help matters.

Overall a polished performance based music video. Sofia Carson is definitely one to watch as she gains more and more popularity. A great song that is ever-so catchy with a glossy music video, entertaining and lovely filled with heart hands throughout. I can't wait to see what the future brings for her.
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Chart Mondays: No Review. Top 10 UK Singles Chart: 6th May 2016 - 12th May 2016

For a fourth time overall, there is not a song in the top 10 UK singles chart which I can write a music video review for.

Last week I cheated and reviewed Sia's promotional video for "Cheap Thrills", but this time around there is not a single video I can review.

Official UK Charts
Here is the official top 10 UK singles chart:

Drake feat. Wizkid & Kyla - One Dance <---- No official music video yet!
Calvin Harris feat. Rihanna - This Is What You Came For <---- No official music video yet!
Sia - Cheap Thrills <---- No official music video yet!
Mike Posner - I Took A Pill In Ibiza
Fifth Harmony feat. Ty Dolla $ign - Work From Home
DNCE - Cake By The Ocean
Zara Larsson - Lush Life
Galantis - No Money <---- No official music video yet!
Alan Walker - Faded
Tinie Tempah feat. Zara Larsson - Girls Like

Jennifer Lopez - Ain't Your Mama



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Recently released, this just puts J Lo back on the music radar. Jennifer Lopez is back! But is she here to stay, that is the main question. She's forever dipping in and out of music like dolphins porpoising in water. She releases hit after hit and then takes a break. She has taken up a residency at The Axis auditorium located in the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, where Britney Spears' residency 'Piece of Me' is, in Las Vegas. Titled 'All I Have', the first leg, consisting of ten dates, were completely sold out. This song is extremely catchy. Jennifer Lopez sports different looks and characters in this upbeat video for Ain't Your Mama. A women empowerment theme, dancing, acting and visually amazing, this video has it all.

Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
Jennifer Lopez is probably the only artist I know of who has had a music career spanning more than a decade and not released a greatest hits album. Amassing an amazing amount of global hits, this singer needs to release a greatest hits album filled with all her high charting singles. Instead she just comes back stronger and harder every time, with perfect songs that impacts the charts around the world. This song, however, has yet to chart in the UK, but with the video just being released, and the slow popularity on radio, it might be a brilliant climber. This song was written by Meghan Trainor, Lukasz Gottwald, Jacob Kasher Hindlin, Henry Walter, Theron Thomas and Gamal Lewis. Completely sassy the song is about men finding their girl incredibly sexy at the start of the relationship and then expecting them to do everything for them further down the line.

Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
The song caused controversy when released with many Kesha fans urging people to boycott its release. The problem comes from the song being written and produced by Dr. Luke. If you don't know about the Kesha vs. Dr. Luke court case then surely you've been hiding under a rock. The song was written and recorded in 2014 by Meghan Trainor and planned for her debut album 'Title', however it didn't make the cut. Two years down the line, Meghan Trainor gave it to Jennifer Lopez. Dr. Luke was not involved in J Lo's version, but has to be credited as he was part of the original. Regardless of this, it's an amazing song and was definitely made for Jennifer Lopez, her vocals work perfectly for this, I can't imagine Meghan Trainor singing this, but would like to hear how different it is.

Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
The music video was directed by Cameron Duddy, both performance and narrative, Jennifer Lopez stuns us as six different characters, all with their own style inspired by different eras. It reminds me slightly of "Papi", and is added to her collection of amazing music videos. There is frequent product placement throughout, just like Avril Lavigne's "What The Hell", it's quickly becoming normal within music videos. Vogue magazine, Beluga vodka and Lavazza coffee are some of the most obvious.

Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
Jennifer Lopez starts off as a news anchor, she's in a phone booth having a heated conversation. Next she's at the desk, ready to give a special announcement, whilst Hilary Clinton's 'Women's Rights Are Human Rights' speech is heard followed by Patricia Arquette's Academy Award speech and finally Gloria Steinem's 'Address to the Women of America' speech. She then tells the women at home to get out of their seats and shout out the window 'I Ain't Your Mama'.

Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
Various characters are then shown. She plays 1950's house wife, a secretary, a factory worker and a 1980's business woman. Lastly she is shown wearing her thigh-high boots by Rihanna for Manolo Blahnik, gifted to her by the Barbadian singer.

Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
The final scene is my favourite, Jennifer Lopez dances with a group of women pulling off complex choreography proving that she can sing, dance and act, Reminiscent of "Papi", only with a group of women instead of men.

Jennifer Lopez in 'Ain't Your Mama'
Jennifer Lopez is the epitome of a triple threat, a trifecta. However it comes at a consequence. She has established herself in singing, dancing and acting, but she isn't on top in any of those areas. But no one can deny that she is on form. J Lo is back, she's still "Jenny From the Block", but she's the triple threat you don't want to clash with. I expect to see 'Ain't Your Mama' climbing up the UK chart soon enough.
Buy on iTunes

Meghan Trainor - NO



Untouchable, untouchable, untouchable. Meghan Trainor is definitely one of the biggest artists in the music industry, her songwriting skills have not only landed her at the top of charts around the globe, but many other acts too. She is untouchable, the one we all need to keep watching. In a stance to tell women to stand up for themselves; they don't need a guy in their lives, she sends out some girl power and strengthens her dancing troupe; just say no.

Meghan Trainor first hit the scene with her debut single "All About That Bass" which hit number one in the UK, as well as many other countries. Since then she has been chasing the chart, failing to reach the top with solid hits. Her collaboration with Charlie Puth on "Marvin Gaye" put her back at the top in the UK, but no new solo chart toppers as of yet. This song is her first single from her new album "Thank You" which is expected to be released next week. Charting just outside the top ten at number 11, twice; this wasn't the hit she was expecting. The song reminds me of Beyoncé's "Crazy In Love", although apparently it was inspired by Britney Spears' "Overprotected" with NSYNC and Destiny's Child influences. It was written by Meghan Trainor, Eric Frederic and Jacob Kasher Hindlin.

Directed by Fatima Robinson and Barnaby Roper, the video is a strength in unity and girl power dance video, that has amazing visual performance sides.

Meghan Trainor has curved into a provocative temptress, whilst saying no no no. She's untouchable, she doesn't want to give her name, her sign, her number, no no no. Guys stay away, she's independent and wants to stick with her girls tonight.

The choreography enforces what she is singing and although it isn't complex, as such, it enforces her statements in the song. Set in a warehouse, Meghan Trainor stands out, although that coat does nothing whatsoever for her.

We're all used to seeing this sweet side to Meghan Trainor, but she needs to grow as an artist, and this is a perfect song and video to do just that. Encouraging being single, Meghan Trainor is easily becoming the next role-model for young girls, and although the video is pretty saucy, it's totally toned down and pretty average. A nice effort.
Buy on iTunes

New Release: Radiohead - Burn The Witch



It is extremely refreshing to see a music video that has been worked on so much. In a Camberwick Green meets Hot Fuzz and The Wicker Man style music video, Radiohead's "Burn The Witch" is a tongue-in-cheek video that is fresh and imaginative, making an ingenious political statement in the process.

Radiohead are a five piece alternative rock band consisting of Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, Colin Greenwood, Ed O'Brien and Philip Selway. Returning from a hiatus, Radiohead has made one of the biggest comebacks with this first release from their ninth studio album. The band and the single have both trended worldwide on Twitter, with much hype and love going out to the band. The song is set to chart highly on the UK singles chart this coming Friday, The song has been in talks since 2000, and has been a long awaited single, much like "Nude" which was written 12 years prior to its release. This just proves that Radiohead are focused on recording songs just right, nothing but perfection will do.

Directed by Chris Hopewell, this entire music video took a total of 14 days to complete. Completely focused and detailed, it's so nice to see that a lot of thought went into this music video, and it relates well with the lyrics, even if controversy has flared up.

An inspector visits the town. He refuses to shake the hand of the mayor. The mayor shows the inspector around the village, there's a model village with actual model people moving about, there's a painter putting a red cross on a door (link to an ominous passover), there's a symbolic ritual where a woman is tied up, there's a gallows that has been dolled up with flowers. And then there's the big finale, there's a big wooden wicker man, which the inspector is encouraged to climb into by the mayor, and then is set alight. At the end, we find out the inspector has survived this incredible ordeal.

Every minute detail is spoken for in this music video, a lot of effort, which totally has paid off. This is something I could watch again and again and again.

It takes me back to a childhood I barely remember. A few children's TV shows has used this stop-motion animation plenty of times before as well as some advertisements and commercials. Definitely inspired by Camberwick Green, Trumpton and Chigley (all three series are part of the Trumptonshire trilogy). It is also being compared to the likes of The Wicker Man and Hot Fuzz, there is a lot of links and references to these films, which can be found here.

Overall, I love this so much, it stands out on any music channel, it relates perfectly with the song. Tongue-in-cheek, surprising and definitely interesting, this music video has it all, a perfect narrative with a tonne of effort that definitely pays off. With the amount of YouTube hits this video has been getting, as well as the chart placing this Friday, Radiohead is officially back!
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Sia - Taken For Granted

Two music videos were released for this song, so I shall review both of them, although they feel pretty similar. This happened with Rihanna's single "Work", where two videos got a surprise release.

The reason why there's two for this single is that the first music video was apparently shot on just a 50 bucks budget. When this single became popular and hit the UK chart at number ten, they had the money to fund a more higher budgeted music video.

Sia, full name Sia Furler, started off her career in acid-jazz band, Crisp and provided vocals for their two albums. Crisp later disbanded, and Sia moved to London, she then worked with Zero 7. In 2000 she got a recording contract with Sony Music's sub-label Dance Pool and released this as her first ever single. It's nice to look back on old songs on my Thursday Revisits. This is a complete change to who we know Sia as. "Cheap Thrills" and "Chandelier" are totally different to this song, but this is definitely just as catchy. The song heavily samples Sergei Prokofiev's "Montagues and Capulets", which not only gets repetitive but doesn't make the song any more appealing. It was written by Sia Furler and produced by Nigel Corsbie. Sia is out in the open in both these videos, no hiding behind a wig. True to herself, her voice is soulful, but with no performance vibes, both videos fall flat. The song reminds me of P!nk's early work.



This is the first video, directed by Matthew Bate on a 50 bucks budget, apparently, it is slightly more appealing and interesting than the second one. Low budget music videos rarely interest me, as they haven't got enough money to capture the audience enough. The narrative isn't played out fully because of this.

However it is a nice idea, and some scenes are exact replicas of the lyrics of the song, relating exactly. There's an intricate scene in which ghostly Sia sings to the Sia crashed on the bed. I love this idea, although it isn't played out enough. This should've been the main narrative.

This video shows that some low-budget videos attempt to include too much, which leaves the audience, not only wanting more, but deprived of visual entertainment.
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This is the second music video that was released. Directed by Fatima Robinson and edited by Angus Giorgi. This one is much more visually friendly, because of the much higher budget.

Sia is a vision of beauty, although not so keen on the style of the bedroom scene, she looks poor and lonely which is the whole intention, but compared with the other two characters it feels totally out of place.

Sia proves that even different people can feel the exact same emotions. They deal with them differently too, which she undoubtedly displays for the music video.

Unfortunately, Sia fails to manage to capture us in this performance based video. It plods along with very little excitement or even an understanding of what is unfolding. There's a little ode to the previous music video, a scene which doesn't make sense no matter which video you view.

Overall, visually more appealing, but much more tedious and bland.
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Alexandra Stan Featuring Mohombi - Balans



Woke up with this song in my head, and obviously I never pass up an opportunity to promote one of my favourite singers. One of the leading Romanian stars, Alexandra Stan really hit it out on international success with the song "Mr Saxobeat", since then she had some difficulty with her management, but after the deeply personal song "Thanks For Leaving", Alexandra Stan is back on form. Alexandra Stan styles it up in this video for Balans, collaborating with Mohombi giving us a playful party that is full of fun, can you Balans?

Alexandra Stan is gearing up for her second single and music video from her most recent album Alesta, which is a bargain of a price on iTunes. She has recently released her own clothing range in Japan as well as promoting the album over there. Currently, Inna and Alexandra Stan are both successful over in Japan, and with enough promotion they will do well globally. Alexandra Stan will always be following in Inna's footsteps, but they came together for "We Wanna", and more hit singles in the future will definitely follow. The world better watch out, because Romania is coming! This song features Mohombi, full name Mohombi Moupondo, a successful Swedish-Congolese singer. He has had a few hits dotted here and there, with some surprising collaborations. His vocals are soulfully authentic, which definitely adds something special to this song. "Balans" would not be the same without Mohombi. This song was written by Barac Sebastian-Alexandru, Botezan Marcel, Mohombi Moupondo and Breyan Isaac.

Directed by Anton San, this video is a full on sexy party. The stylist has picked some unique outfits for Alexandra Stan that may not be stylistically awesome, but shows her off exquisitely.

Razvan Firea & Marius Ferascu act as stylists in this video, whilst Claudiu Sarghe is the hair stylist. The latter fails to interest me at all, nothing special about Alexandra Stan's hair in this video. The costumes are intricately unique, a wild combination that works.

The video relates to an extent, but there's too much focus on sexing Alexandra Stan up that the feel overall falls completely. Mohombi doesn't add to the video either, leaving everything a little flat.
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Nathan Sykes Featuring G-Eazy - Give It Up



Ten days ahead of its release, this song is already the talk of the town. Could this be the hit song Nathan Sykes has been after? His third solo single after "Kiss Me Quick" and "Over and Over Again", both of which are phenomenal songs, but none of which hit the mark the way we all expected them to. They are good songs, just not the hit he so clearly deserves. This could be the one. Nathan Sykes begs his girlfriend to stop with him for the night, but how can she say no in this raunchy display of affection that just makes all us single people full of jealousy.

Nathan Sykes, for those of you who don't know, was one fifth of boy band The Wanted. He is now going it alone, and is releasing amazing singles, that are getting critical acclaim. "Kiss Me Quick" should've done better on the UK charts, with it's disappointingly low chart peak it suggested Nathan Sykes needed a musical change. "Over and Over Again" did much better, although still stalled just inside the top 10. This needs to be the hit he is after, grabbing G-Eazy's fan base as well as his own should push this single into the top five at least, it's certainly getting enough radio play. The song was written by Nathan Sykes, G-Eazy, Talay Riley, Luke James, Matthew Burnett and Riley Bell.

The very steamy video is directed by Michael Baldwin. It has been deemed too provocative for TV screens, this can both help or deter the song's charting position, either it will cause controversy, therefore making the song more popular, or not seeing it on the music channels can stop it from climbing the chart. But this will be Nathan Sykes biggest hit, no doubt. There are worse videos in the world than this make out session. Take a look at the incriminating scenes here. An editied version can be found being played on the music channels.

No sign of the name of the model / actress who plays his love interest, if you have any idea who she is, comment below please.

These two clearly are enjoying themselves. This relates perfectly with the song, even if it is a little too much, even for me. Then again, it's extremely suggestive, and it does make me jealous because I've been in that exact type of relationship, and I seriously miss it, but it's a perfect portrayal of what I had, and what a lot of other people have had. Creating a link with the audience and making a lot of girls and gay guys filled with envy because he's kissing this model and not them (*cough* me *cough*).

G-Eazy, real name Gerald Gillum, has really hit international rapping fame recently, and he's using all that popularity to good use. He's hit the UK hard after his top 10 hit with Grace on "You Don't Own Me". He's one rapper that isn't going away any time soon. But once again, I feel he adds nothing to the song, The lyrics work, but the music change and the rapping doesn't. It's like another song has interrupted Nathan Sykes vocals, however this is what we've come to accept from G-Eazy, and it's surely making him more popular. In the video he fails to entertain. He distracts and does nothing in his scene, just a simple little rap, that adds nothing to the visual at all.

Overall, an amazing song that should hit the UK charts hard, and a banned from UK TV music video that's raunchy, sexy, lustful and a little bit filthy. A much tamed version is being shown on UK TV though. It can be considered a bit much, but it relates to the song and Nathan Sykes and this model clearly had an amazing time during these scenes. They clearly couldn't keep their hands and lips off one another. Sexy clips are more focused on the model, disappointingly so, and G-Eazy fails to make any sort of good impression.
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Chart Mondays: Sia - Cheap Thrills



Breaking my own rules once again, this song looks like it's going to be in the chart for sometime and it doesn't have an official music video, but this 'Performance Edit' is probably the closest we're ever going to get to one. Currently her highest charting solo single, Sia has been on quite a journey, now she's one of the top female singers in the world. Sia hides in the corner of this performance edit video, as Maddie Ziegler once again takes centre stage in an incredible dancing performance proving how professional she really is.

Sia, full name Sia Furler, has had hit after hit, she's the one to watch, the one everyone keeps their eyes on because we all know that whatever she releases will not only be current, but completely change pop music entirely. Yet she only has one number one overall in the UK, and that was the collaboration with David Guetta on the song "Titanium". Her songwriting credits are substantial with many well-known songs by popular artists. Sia will always be the one to watch and look out for. This song is currently sitting at number two on the UK charts, just behind Drake's "One Dance". It was written by Sia Furler and Greg Kurstin. The song was originally intended for Rihanna, who rejected it, it was then passed on to Icona Pop, who also didn't fancy the song. Guess these things happen for a reason, since this is Sia's biggest solo single, in the UK, so far.

this was directed by Sia & Daniel Askill with Ryan Heffington as creative director and choreographer.

There's not a lot to this video, since it is a performance edit video and not an official one. Maddie Ziegler is an outstanding performer and dancer, to which we already know.

She is backed up by two male dancers, who's names were released by Sia's manager David Russell. They are Nick Lanzisera and Wyatt Rocker. It is doubtful whether these two will appear in any of Sia's future videos, however, this is Sia we are talking about, and just look at her continued relation with Maddie Ziegler, who has appeared in a total of four of Sia's music videos: "Chandelier", "Elastic Heart", "Big Girls Cry" and this one (although this is not an official video).

The choreography is nailed to perfection, which is unsurprising since all three dancers are clearly professional. They perform totally in-sync, there's not a line out of place. This is beyond perfect, there's just not a better word out there. This is near to impossible not to get wrong yet all three dancers are flawless.

Overall, this would never work as an official video, but as a promotional performance edit video it is faultless. The choreography is crazily amazing, performed superbly. I love the addition of Sia in the background with her wig on, and yet she takes the spotlight's shadow during a short scene of the video. Amazing, beautiful, perfect, exquisite. Although not appealing, it completely works. I've dropped a star, purely because it's not an official music video, however it wouldn't work as an official video. Broke my rules again, just like I did for Justin Bieber and his "Purpose" album's promotional videos: "The Movement". But so worth it.
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Maroon 5 - Sugar



This was another music video me and my brother's girlfriend chatted about the other night... Such a simple idea, yet next to impossible to pull off, but Maroon 5 managed to do it. This is one of those music videos that will always be inspirational and different, it stands out on any music channel, and works completely, even if it does seem far-fetched. Maroon 5 crash as many weddings as possible in one day, performing for the happy couples in this video for Sugar.

Maroon 5 are a six-piece band consisting of Adam Levine, Jesse Carmichael, Mickey Madden, James Valentine, Matt Flynn and PJ Morton. They were originally called Kara's Flowers. Their career as Maroon 5 started off well, everyone was talking about them, but they soon dropped in popularity and it wasn't until Adam Levine appeared as a coach on The Voice and collaborated with fellow coach from the show, Christina Aguilera, on "Moves Like Jagger" that they were back in the spotlight, releasing hit after hit. This song is the third single to be taken from the aptly named fifth album 'V'. It hit the UK chart at number seven and was written by Mike Posner, Adam Levine, Joshua Coleman, Lukasz Gottwald, Jacob Kasher Hindlin and Henry Walter. It was planned to be released by Mike Posner for his 'Pages' album which got cancelled. Maroon 5 wanted it so he gave it to them, he is a fan of the changes the band made to the song.

The video was directed by David Dobkin, who is probably mostly known for directing 'Wedding Crashers', the Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughan film. He has directed and been a part of many other films, some well-known films include 'Fred Claus', 'Mr. Woodcock' and 'Jack The Giant Slayer'. The video has a similar feel to the 'Wedding Crashers' film, and is still getting questioned on whether it was staged or not. Regardless, it's still incredible.

This video is a similar style as Katy Perry's "Birthday", it's definitely reminiscent of that music video. I like how it's in real time and the shocked faces are pretty much real, it's next to impossible to stage everything completely, and even if it is completely staged, it's some amazing acting.

The idea behind the video is to crash as many weddings as they can, apparently the groom is the only one in on it, but they were only told it was a famous band, not who they were. There's a whole lot of technicalities that could and did go wrong, but this is what makes an amazing music video.

My only problem overall is the sexualised content of the lyrics. Even though Katy Perry's "Birthday" is also sexualised, that song relates perfectly with the music video... This one just doesn't relate to the video. It's not like the lyrics has anything to do with weddings, but I guess they couldn't crash people making love, so a wedding was the next best thing right?

Overall, entertaining, shocking and filled with so much love. Congratulations on every couple that got married that day and had MAROON 5 crash their wedding. I'd have them crash my wedding any day of my life.
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Philip George - Wish You Were Mine



After a three hour wait for a game to download thanks to the insistence of my brother and his girlfriend, only for my laptop to the crash whilst we manage to play it; we discussed music videos and this one was the one we talked about, and how it's confusing and doesn't make sense. It surely doesn't relate to the song. Philip George becomes various people, as we follow the central character as he dances his way through the day, in the wish you were mine music video.

Philip George is a 22-year-old DJ from Nottingham in the UK. This is his debut single released on 3Beat Records, his follow-up single "Alone No More" was as much of a chart success as this song was. It seems Philip George is the DJ to watch as he releases hit after hit after hit, and with 3Best behind him all the way, promoting his every step, we'll definitely be seeing more from him. This song hit number two in the UK, just missing out from the top spot thanks to "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars. The song samples "My Cherie Amour" by Stevie Wonder. Hence why the song was written by Stevie Wonder, Sylvia Moy and Henry Cosby.

The music video is intricately thought out, although it doesn't relate and it doesn't make sense.

The start is unsettling slow and focuses on the home setting and his home life. the video inspires dreams and to go after what you want. He turns on his music player and envisions a day filled with dancing, wishing a girl would be his.

Although there isn't a central love interest, the start suggests that the girl he passes on the street is who he is thinking of. The neighbour is an incredible dancer, but it's too obvious that it's a fake setting, it's supposed to make us realise we're in his daydream, yet it just confuses us more with the spotlights.

Philip George turns up in this video as one sexy policeman (I'd stand in front of that window all day if it meant he would appear and tell me to stop looking)! He appears as a good looking shop keeper (I'd be in that shop all the time, not going to lie), and a bus driver (less emphasis on him in this scene). Philip George sees the dancers dancing in reflections or on a camera, and yet they are just going about their normal days,. This is the kid's daydream, and yet Philip George can also see the daydream. It's a nice idea although it suggests the kid wishes Philip George was his, instead of actively including a love interest for the kid.

The ending tells us that this is all a daydream, but the kid smiles nonetheless. He's clearly obsessed with this song and this is what goes through his head whenever he hears it.

Unrelatable and yet some pretty good dancing that is slightly in time with the song. It's not suggestive enough leaving the audience confused. It doesn't make sense and it doesn't relate to the song. This could be linked with any song and it still wouldn't make a difference. A nice idea that isn't followed through enough.
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