I literally walked into a shop today and I swear an Alexis Jordan song was being played, but when I got home and looked up her songs, it wasn't any of them... So, who knows what that song was, I can't even remember the lyrics; so, instead I decided to review this song and video since it is beyond catchy and the video is very intricately put together and has a brilliant visual that keeps us entertained right until the very end. Watch Alexis Jordan fall for a guy in this monumental movement music video that is beyond iconic and completely memorable in every single way for her debut "Happiness".
Alexis Jordan launched onto the music scene back in 2010 with this very single. She first came to TVs all around the world when she competed in the first season of America's Got Talent at the age of 14. She was eliminated during the Semi-Finals. She then had a YouTube career where she uploaded covers, which brought her to the attention of Stargate and Jay-Z. She released an album and a few more singles before being dropped from Roc Nation and there's no sight of a second album on the horizon, unfortunately. Yet, she deserves to come back around and I'm sure she'll have another hit before we know it. This song was a chart success in many countries, including Australia, the UK, Norway, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Poland. The song was written by Joel Zimmerman, Mikkel S. Eriksen, Tor Erik Hermansen, Autumn Rowe, and Petr Brdičko. The song samples Deadmau5's "Brazil (2nd Edit)"
Directed by Aggressive, who has directed some very well-known music videos; this one is memorable in every way. It transports Alexis Jordan and her love interest, played by actor Tom Williamson, into this futuristic world where you literally don't have to walk anywhere as the world moves you forwards and backwards - sounds like the life.
It's very colourful throughout. There's a performance piece running alongside a narrative that keeps us entertained. Alexis Jordan performs on a platform surrounded by water. She's in-step with her backing dancers whilst keeping the spotlight on her throughout. If I'm honest, I'd rather have seen more from this scene than the others.
The narrative follows a concept of Alexis Jordan and Tom Williamson meeting for the first time and their connection growing - he clearly makes her happy. She drives past him at the bus stop as she is set to possibly leave town, but him in the mirror of the car makes her think twice. She soon hops in the driver's seat and reverses to find him, as the world battles against her as it guides her out of town.
The video is in-depth and very clever. I remember that it stood out on the music channels every time I saw it. It is completely bright and fun. It's different but in all the good ways possible. Even years later, everyone still remembers it. It's also completely relatable in every way.
I have fallen behind on my blog once again, so it's time for me to catch up and get back into the swing of things. My problem with this Saturday was that I went to see a bunch of rising talent at the Elite Showcase, which I reviewed for CelebMix. I thought one of their songs would stand out and I'd be reviewing the original to one of their covers, but that didn't happen. iTunes practically chose this song for me on this exact day as I listened to my music on shuffle. It's nice when great songs come back into your life, and this was one of them until I saw this weird as, music video; like seriously? It makes sense but I'm not keen on the performance piece at all. Watch Calvin Harris and Tinie Tempah perform in the middle of lots of twerking women, while we watch the devil raise havoc without anyone batting an eye in this music video for "Drinking From The Bottle".
Calvin Harris, real name Adam Wiles, is one of the biggest DJ's in the world. He continues to bring out hits and recently released a new album that featured a lot of collaborations and charted well internationally. This song in itself was a hit but only charted moderately well around the world. It did so much better in the clubs. It features Tinie Tempah, real name Patrick Okogwu, who also is an international star and who also dropped a new album this year. Both stars continue to prove that British artists are just as good as many US artists. This song charted in the UK at number five. The song was written by Calvin Harris, Patrick Okogwu, James F. Reynolds, and Mark Knight.
Directed by Vince Haycock, this music video has both a narrative and a performance piece; although, the latter is over the top for the female dancers who all just twerk. I feel like this doesn't allow Calvin Harris or Tinie Tempah to shine at all, and they kind of get lost.
The narrative is mildly okay as it does relate to the song somewhat. I love the initial story and it's quite weird that the devil is out exploring and no one really realises. I love that both the performance piece and the narrative collide when the devil is Calvin Harris and Tinie Tempah's taxi man.
Yet, it gets worse and the narrative turns into something I'm not into seeing, although many other people might be. I just feel that they tried to make some sort of statement that most people just aren't getting. There are much better ways of making such a statement. Regardless, the visual does relate to the song somewhat, and I do take an interest in what the devil is going to do next, even if it's something I don't approve of and find disgusting or repulsed by. Not interested in seeing this again, but I appreciate what they are trying to do. The devil is played by Brad Dourif and his friend Patrick is played by Pat-Ric Nasty (frontman of Vader Vader).
Breaking away from Crystal Castles is Alice Glass, and her new single is currently the only new release I could find that had a music video; surely there are a lot more, there has to be. Oh well, this is the one I am reviewing today, and it's beyond quirky; that's pretty obvious from the thumbnail, alone. The music video dives deeper in a weird visual that keeps the audience glued to the screen whilst the droning track progresses into something we turn out loving, for some bizarre reason. Watch Alice Glass wrapped up in flowering vines as she sprinkles sweetness with a deadly threat in this music video for the similarly haunting song "Without Love".
Alice Glass is known as the former frontwoman of Crystal Castles. As part of the duo, she had great success when it came to their albums and have charted multiple times. Their biggest hit to date is "Not In Love" which features Robert Smith, the song is a cover of Platinum Blonde's "Not In Love". Since Alice Glass has left, Crystal Castles continues after bringing in a new female vocalist. As for Alice Glass, she is now starting to build a solo career, and with a brilliant debut track such as this one, we know that we'll be hearing a lot more from her. She previously released a charity single in 2015 titled "Stillbirth". Haunting and sweet at the same time, "Without Love" is an unexpected track that wraps itself around your head so that you never forget it.
The music video was directed by Floria Sigismondi; it premiered on The FADER who also co-produced it alongside MAAVVEN. It's a pure performance piece with profile scenes throughout, easily showing off Alice Glass' personality; you definitely wouldn't be disappointed at one of her concerts.
The scenes start from the weird and turn strange and then goes freaky. Alice Glass turns it out in every way for this video as we watch vines and flowers start to grow and trap her. The ending sees her in an empty swimming pool, almost being reincarnated as a flower-person.
Overall, it's a great concept and the song literally grows on you like the flowers do on Alice Glass. Turning something sweet and innocent into something deadly and so defining is incredible. I love how it's relatable to the song in every way and gets her message across even more so. Just wow!
Such a crazy messed-up music video for my Thursday Revisit this week; yet, it's relatable to an extent. This song is Everything Everything's biggest UK Chart hit, and I swear I've heard it before - it must've been played on the radio often back then, surely. The song itself has an indie feel to it and feels like it has been released way too late, so it's lucky it was a chart hit, to an extent. This sort of music just isn't all that popular nowadays, but it's good to see that Everything Everything are changing in line with the times whilst keeping their signature sound. Watch Everything Everything perform their hit song in this black and white visual which has some disturbing themes and scenes as part of this music video for "Cough Cough".
Everything Everything are a four-piece band consisting of Jonathan Higgs, Jeremy Pritchard, Michael Spearman, and Alex Robertshaw. They are from the UK and have been going for many years, hence why I chose them for my Thursday Revisit as I haven't dipped into their music much. They are one of those bands that people know but have no idea why. Their longevity has obviously played a big part in that. This song peaked on the UK Singles Chart at number 37. It was written by Jonathan Higgs, Jeremy Pritchard, Michael Spearman, and Alex Robertshaw.
Directed by Jon Everything (AKA Jonathan Higgs), this music video is intricate in its concept. It's a pure performance piece but there's this whole idea behind it that is intense, along with some defining profile scenes. It sure is unforgettable.
There's lyrics shown throughout this music video so the audience can sing along at some points - no, these words have an impact on the audience and attempt to allow us to really get Everything Everything's song. The drums throughout is amazing to watch, all the band members are in-sync and it has this old-style feel to it; they are inspired by the Japanese Kodo Drummers.
Other scenes include a fuel pump, a gun, and oil. The song is about not having enough money to do what you want to the extent where you're doing a job you don't want to do just to make a living. It is a vicious cycle and poor jobless me can totally identify with this; according to the behind-the-scenes video, they chose oil as a replacement for money, which brings along this dark and depressing theme as a whole.
Overall, it's a great concept that not everyone will get let alone understand. Totally relatable, and the drumming scene is iconic. Congrats to these guys for pulling off this music video in every way. If there was a slight bit more of a connection I wouldn't be dropping a star, but apart from that, this is well-thought-out.
What have I just watched? How does this video relate to this song? It doesn't! It's just a bunch of random clips put together to show diversity and real life. Although they're not bad, they don't really represent the song. I chose to review this music video due to it appearing on my YouTube Recommendations - since I'm a fan of Anne-Marie; unfortunately, she isn't in this music video but the featured star, Joey Bada$$, is. Watch a bunch of video clips that show different groups of people hanging out and having fun in this music video for Snakehips & Anne-Marie's "Either Way" featuring Joey Bada$$.
Snakehips are a DJ duo consisting of Oliver Lee and James Carter. They went viral with their collaboration with Tinashe and Chance The Rapper on "All My Friends" which charted internationally. They've had quite a successful career to date with many of their follow-ups charting around the world moderately well, and it seems this song follows suit. Anne-Marie, full name Anne-Marie Nicholson, is an inspiration to us all. She's one of those acts who has fought for her music career and fought and fought and fought. After a collaboration with Clean Bandit and Sean Paul on "Rockabye", she's finally made it! She continues to inspire all the fighters out there who are reaching for a career - such as myself - because we can all get there in the end; hard work and determination always pays off. This song features Joey Bada$$, real name Jo-Vaughn Scott, who is an American rapper and actor. He came to my attention when Kiesza featured on one of his album tracks, and he's one that will steadily grow and grow, one that will no doubt have a hit song go viral in the coming years. This song peaked on the UK chart at number 47, and I doubt it'll do better than that. It was written by James David, Julia Michaels, Warren Felder, Oliver Dickinson, and Jo-Vaughn Scott.
Directed by Hector Dockrill, this music video shows a bunch of clips of various friendship groups hanging out and chilling. Billboard asked "How do you spend your Saturdays?" and that is certainly what this music video showcases.
There are various scenes from drag queens getting ready to young adults pulling wheelies on bicycles in the streets. There's a lot of smoking and clubbing going on - the latter of which I would totally spend every one of my Saturdays doing if I had the money to do so.
Is there anything else I can comment on? Not really. There's just no substance or relatability to this music video. Nothing here that makes me want to repeat this visual, and although it shows off real life it just doesn't give me anything that I want to see.
Another new song from Alexandra Stan and I can't get enough of it. I have written this up for CelebMix, so I had to write it up for my own blog too! Unfortunately, I don't have the money to buy this single from iTunes, just yet, but I'm ready to do so as soon as I have money. This is one killer song and her first that is completely sung in Romanian. Watch Alexandra Stan be flirty, sultry, and teasing in this music video for her new song "Noi 2" - pronounced "Noi Doi".
Alexandra Stan is the superstar female Romanian singer who had international fame with her hit song "Mr Saxobeat". Since then she has continued with her music career, building upon her success whilst dealing with issues amongst other things. This is her follow-up to "Boy Oh Boy"; it hasn't been released officially yet, but I expect it to be out in the next few days. It makes a change to hear her sing a solo song completely in her home language of Romanian - which certainly is a beautiful language, especially in music. This song was written by Alexandra Stan & Chriss JustUs.
Directed by Bogdan Paun, this music video is cheeky from start to finish. The main scene is Alexandra Stan spending time with her girls on a yacht in the middle of the sea.
She's being flirtatious throughout this music video, especially with her big blow up banana and where they take the towel from that guy. This guy definitely looks like Alexandra Stan's lover Staruiala Bogdan - who has a photo on his Instagram of him on the yacht in Constanta, Romania; so we can presume this is where the music video was filmed.
The most stylish scene is the circus themed clips where Alexandra Stan is wearing a fun playsuit that looks amazing on her. Stylish and sexy, Alexandra Stan nails this video and it's something that we can all keep watching again and again and again. Finally, we have a Romanian solo single from her and it's one we can't help but love!
This was a totally hot team up! Sigala and Ella Eyre were meant to collaborate on a song together. "Came Here For Love" is full of that summer DJ sound which encompasses the warmth of this season. This song has been hanging around the top ten for a while, and since Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee has made it to their 11th non-consecutive week at the top of the UK Charts with "Despacito" featuring Justin Bieber, I thought I'd review this one since I don't see it hanging around for long. Watch Ella Eyre perform at the colourful Las Palmitas for this Sigala music video for the song "Came Here For Love" which infuses summer in every way.
Sigala, real name Bruce Fielder, continues to bring out amazing songs after amazing songs. They've all managed to chart well around the world. He has helped to launch careers whilst collaborating with big names in the industry. He promised that an album will be released in the future, and we still wait for that day, even after his eight lead singles. "Came Here For Love" is in collaboration with Ella Eyre, real name Ella McMahon. She's one of these singers who do well with features and does all right by herself but she is someone who deserves so much more credibility. This song, much like her other collaborations, has launched her right back into the spotlight, and she needs to ride this wave once again; and, hopefully, succeed in staying in the limelight once and for all, otherwise she might not get another chance. This song was written by Bruce Fielder, Ella McMahon, Cédric Steinmyller, Bryn Christopher, and Scott Wild.
This music video was directed by Craig Moore and set in the Las Palmitas neighbourhood in Pachuca, Hidalgo, Mexico. It's truly colourful and beautiful; a perfect setting for this video.
There's not a lot going on in the visual, Ella Eyre fits in well with the location due to her fashion choices that suit her completely. The rest of the video pretty much showcases this beautiful neighbourhood.
Other scenes relate to the song perfectly, showing off couples interacting with each other to the extent that we feel the message that Ella Eyre is portraying - even if I don't want to. If you have read my previous blog post on Brandon Stansell's "Slow Down", you'll understand how I'm feeling at the moment.
Overall, this music video definitely captures the summer spirit within a beautiful place. It's not all that much of a memorable video as they focus on the neighbourhood itself rather than any sort of narration but it does keep the audience interested in watching more.
YouTube Recommendations brought me to this music video and hence why I'm reviewing it on my blog today; what I wasn't expecting is to see this loving music video that heightens my jealousy, especially since this guy I've been seeing hasn't been replying to me since our last date (which was five days ago, by the way). I've now come to terms with the fact that it's over, even though not messaging me doesn't mean it's over, he definitely has no chance at crawling back into my life - no thanks! Anyways, this is a very loving story and ever-so-cute. We all want this in our lives, and for most of us, the perfect guy does come along. Watch Brandon Stansell be a hitchhiker as Rich Hill picks him up in his truck, which breaks down. They go and find a caravan where they spend time together in this very cute music video for "Slow Down".
Brandon Stansell is one of newest country stars on the scene, who is also gay; trying to make his music career. He is gearing up to launch his Kickstarter campaign, which has helped many other musicians in the past, including my favourite gay male artist Steve Grand - check out "All American Boy" if you haven't already. He has already released an EP and three singles (which came together as a second EP). He has 2,500 subscribers on YouTube and has been viewed over 271,000 times. He is definitely building his brand and a Kickstarter campaign may be exactly what he needs! This song has received almost 75,000 YouTube views and is his second most-watched video behind "Never Know". The song features the well-known country music star Ty Herndon, who came out as gay at the end of 2014. He was a big hit in the late 90's but his career has certainly slowed in recent years. The song was written by MYLEN & Brandon Stansell.
Directed by Trent Atkinson, this music video feels like a slight ode to Shania Twain's "That Don't Impress Me Much", as she too is a hitchhiker in the desert; only he does what we all think she should've done and said yes to the hot guy who tried to help her out. Yet, it's to his detriment as the truck breaks down and they end up spending time together in the desert. This was all filmed in Joshua Tree, California.
They go exploring and find a caravan with an outdoor shower - allowing us to ogle his love interest who is actor Rich Hill. At the end, they head back to the road and try to hitchhike but there are no cars, so they turn around and head back.
Overall, this visual relates to this song in every way. We all want to sit in a caravan with someone who is beyond hot and cares for us completely. We all need that time to slow down with the guy we like - I just need to keep one around for more than two weeks for that to even be an option for me.
I have just written up an article about this song and music video for Outlet Magazine, so I thought I might as well write a blog post about the visual too. She's pretty new on the scene, after launching her music career last year, but LIZ LOKRE is certainly gaining momentum and definitely one for us all to keep our eyes on. This song does remind me of Drake feat. Rihanna's song "Too Good", but only slightly. Watch LIZ LOKRE bring a burst of colour with this infectious confident track that energises all the viewers to be sassy and be prepared to say "Buh Bye"; perfect motivation throughout this music video!
LIZ LOKRE, previously known as Liz Loughrey, launched her debut single "Rise Up!" last year, and this one is her second single release. Both songs have over 150,000 streams on Spotify, which just goes to show how catchy her music really is. This song, in particular, is sultry and hot, whilst bringing some soul into this undeniable pop song. I could so imagine this being remixed with Drake feat. Rihanna's "Too Good", it'll just work perfectly.
Directed by Sean McBride & Caroline Torti, the latter of which also acted as the choreographer, this music video is a pure performance visual surrounded by a full on burst of colour. It has a pop-art feel to it and contains LIZ LOKRE knocking out killer choreography with two backing dancers.
It's complete confidence throughout with LIZ LOKRE keeping the spotlight on her. She is seriously telling us "Buh Bye" and she means every single word of the song. This singer/songwriter proves that she deserves to be in the music industry and needs so much more recognition.
Overall, the music video is great to watch, and something I could watch over and over. She totally nails the choreography throughout. There are no distractions and it's very colourful. There isn't a love interest, unfortunately, but this video is fire nonetheless.
Making their debut on my blog with their new release is Everything Everything. If I'm honest, I've been aware of this band for many years, but they aren't to my taste and I haven't really dabbled in their music. So here I am, dabbling in their new release, and it's a lot better than what I was expecting. Watch Everything Everything perform their new song "Desire" in this colourful music video displaying their passion for music in every way.
Everything Everything are a four-piece band consisting of Jonathan Higgs, Jeremy Pritchard, Michael Spearman, and Alex Robertshaw. They are from the UK, and have been attempting to become popular for many years; this band proves that if you continue on with your passion, you'll finally make it. Their albums consistently chart highly, and I reckon this new one will follow suit. They haven't really had any hit singles - not one that has made their career, although "Cough Cough" and "Kemosabe" both have charted within the UK Top 50 Singles Chart, but they totally deserve to have one massive hit; especially if this song is anything to go by. The song was written by Jonathan Higgs, Michael Spearman, Jeremy Pritchard, and Alex Robertshaw.
Directed by Dave Tree, this music video is a pure performance visual with very little going on. The band displays their on-stage energy and it definitely desires us to go and see them live one day.
Performing on a square stage, Everything Everything are in a box-like room as they display their song. There's really not a lot going on but there's some great imagery and interesting energy that doesn't go unnoticed.
This is literally all I can say about this music video. It's very colourful; there's a lot of blue and pink filters used in the visual. Everything Everything show their interaction with one another and how they group well together as a band. This song is one that I could've seen being a hit, but I don't see it going up the charts, unfortunately.
Okay, so I'm behind on my blog, and I truly am sorry guys. It's because I had an interview in London and took a much-needed break away to my favourite city, and they still rejected me - oh well, my life will sort itself out eventually, and I'll prove to the world that I'm worth something at least... Until then, I shall catch up with my blog.
For Thursday Revisit, I thought I'd do review this country music legend's biggest hit. This song did amazingly well in the UK, and I remember hearing it all the time. I'm actually surprised that she has never had a UK Single number one, regardless of how popular she was back when I was young. She's now returned to music and "Life's About To Get Good" has quickly become a favourite song of mine - I can't wait to hear more new music from her. This music video is clearly an old video, but I love the concept and it works to some extent. Watch Shania Twain in the desert trying to hitchhike but she only wants the right guy, so she's turning down hot guys left, right, and centre, because they don't impress her in this music video for "That Don't Impress Me Much".
Shania Twain is definitely one of those iconic stars that everyone knows. She made her name by launching hit country songs around the world, which is usually unheard of. It's so difficult to market songs like this in certain countries, especially the UK, who don't really get or understand country music; yet, Shania Twain managed to do it. She has been releasing new music that has been gaining momentum - what is it with Shania Twain that makes her bring out killer songs that deserve to be international successes? Anyways, this song got to number three on the UK singles chart, along with its follow-up "Man! I Feel Like A Woman". I expect her to make a full return to the UK charts in the future, especially with her great new music she has been releasing. This song was written by Robert John "Mutt" Lange and Shania Twain.
Directed by Tag Savage, this music video was filmed in the Mojave Desert at El Mirage Dry Lake and Barstow, California. There's not a lot going on but it's definitely a great concept - but seriously, how did she come across so many hot guys who wanted her in a desert? I can't even do that in a gay club - well I can but the guys that check me out don't come up to me.
She's wearing a leopard print outfit with a big circular bag to match, whilst trying to hitchhike to get out of the desert; however, she turns down every single hot guy that stops for her because they don't impress her much. She's probably still in the desert, and surely she's teasing every single one of them by sticking her hand out to them for a lift.
Overall, it's an all right music video. I totally love the concept but surely she's trying to find a way out of the desert; by turning down every guy that offers her a lift, just makes her stuck in the desert with nowhere to go.
Her first solo singles away from Fifth Harmony, and I don't even know how I have not blogged about this music video before today. To be fair, Camila Cabello's debut solo music video isn't striking or all that memorable - which probably explains it all really. The song is a climber and a grower for everyone and has been starting to get those important chart numbers that it clearly deserves, but it's been quite the wait. I'm interested in what her new music will bring, whilst Fifth Harmony continues as a four-piece. Watch Camila Cabello perform "Crying In The Club" and "I Have Questions" in this haunting club music video for her debut solo singles.
Camila Cabello is mostly known for her time in girl group Fifth Harmony and for being the first member to release solo music and leave the band. Fifth Harmony were put together on the second season of The X Factor (US) and each member auditioned individually before being put together. They came third overall and went on to become the biggest act from all three seasons. Now going solo, Camila Cabello is definitely proving that she can make it on her own; however, Fifth Harmony remains strong without her. This song has charted all over the world, not making a striking impact but it's done all right. The song samples Christina Aguilera's "Genie In A Bottle". It was written by Camila Cabello, Sia Furler, and Benjamin Lever. The start of this video gives a snippet of the promotional single "I Have Questions", which charted in a few countries. It was written by Camila Cabello, Jesse Shatkin, and Bibi Bourelly.
This music video was directed by Emil Nava, who is totally an in-demand music video director - this name pops up all the time. Yet, this video is less impressive and I'm not so keen on the two song medley.
The opening starts with "I Have Questions" which is my favourite out of the two songs; yet, as a snippet, it's that slight bit too long and it makes you wonder when "Crying In The Club" will start up - it fully takes one minute and forty seconds.
Visually it's appealing but it doesn't go anywhere. It's mainly, haunting profile shots of Camila Cabello. The bath scene reminds me of Britney Spears' "Everytime". I totally love the glass box in the centre of the dancefloor, it reminds me of the mini-stages and the poles that you get in some of the clubs - but Camila Cabello looks awkward being in the centre spotlight, not quite being confident.
Overall, it's an all right music video that relates to the song to an extent; yet, it's nothing new, nothing exciting and definitely doesn't stand out. The song is a killer track, that had an even better follow-up, but the video just fails to impress.
She is BACK! After a massively long break, Shania Twain is here to spread joy and positivity in her first single in over five years. She's the woman who brought country music to the world and is held in high regard by many famous country singers of the world. She's been through a lot during her break from music, but it's now time for her to return and this song is definitely catchy and is one that is jovial and spreads joy to everyone. Watch Shania Twain strip away everything that reminds her of her ex with the help of a guy in a purple suit, as she turns her life around in this music video for "Life's About To Get Good".
Shania Twain is an iconic female country singer. She has a range of hits that conquered the world; even managing to hit it big in the UK, where country music rarely sees the light of day. The big question that everyone is wondering is, will Shania Twain manage to make a full-on chart comeback? She hasn't hit the main charts since "Don't" in 2005 apart from the one-off single "Today Is Your Day" which only charted in Canada and the US. This song is catchy and deserves to do well, but it's not mainstream to the extent where the song will launch up the charts. Her album might do well around the world, but if this song is anything to go by, she won't be having single chart success for a while. It has, however, charts in some countries: Canada Hot 100 at 70, the US Country Airplay & Hot Country Songs at 36 & 33 respectively; and Scotland at 91. "Life's About To Get Good" was written by Shania Twain.
Directed by Matthew Cullen, this music video exactly relates to the song, and it really works. We all want that leaflet so that we can open it up and a purple-suit guy appears and sorts out our lives for us. This visual is what dreams are made of.
The opening sees Shania Twain in a gorgeous oceanic dress as she walks along the beach, intercut with scenes of her in her house doing everyday things - like getting the post and making a cup of tea. As she goes through the post, she comes across a vacation leaflet which dares her to open it with the words "Open at your own risk".
Inside is a man in a purple suit with an entourage, the leaflet says "Change comes from within". She puts the leaflet down and the people she just saw just magically appear, prepared to help her sort her life out.
This entourage rearranges furniture, gets rid of memories about the guy who hurt her and brightens up all her rooms in the house. It's a totally uplifting visual to go with the joyful song. It works well, and we all wish this would happen to us so that we'd be walking along that beach some day or living in that beautiful house with the swimming pool - that I'm sure we've seen a few times in TV series and/or films and/or music videos.
She is back on top form, Rita Ora's "Your Song" is so good. It didn't impact the UK chart immediately, but soon made a steady climb; however, it's currently stalled at number seven and isn't able to beat its peak. It looks like it will decline in the next few weeks, but being inside the top ten is still a good peak position. Currently, Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee is at number one with "Despacito" which features Justin Bieber, hence why I'm reviewing this song today. Watch Rita Ora walk backwards through her day as she thinks about the kiss goodbye she gave to this guy, whilst everyone else's day go forwards in this music video for "Your Song".
Rita Ora recently got away from her record label through a settlement and she is now gearing up to release her second studio album which this, we presume, is her lead single. She has hit it big in the UK and the US, and even judged and coached on rival TV shows The X Factor and The Voice UK. We've been waiting patiently for new music and when we finally got it, it gradually grew on us all. "Your Song" has done all right globally, charting high in many countries, although it does deserve better placings. It was written by Ed Sheeran and Steve Mac.
Directed by Michael Haussman, the music video shows Rita Ora thinking of the goodbye kiss she gave to a guy last night; whilst everyone else's day goes forwards, her day goes backwards, back to the place and the time she kissed that guy goodbye.
The first time I saw this, I thought Rita Ora looked like Khloe Kardashian; she still does in this video, it's because of the way her hair has been styled and because of her makeup, which is on-point throughout. The opening scene sees her in a meeting in an office building, where she's the only woman.
We watch various scenes which see Rita Ora going backwards, which includes driving a car in reverse too - which looks completely awesome. It all leads back to the goodbye kiss - it is adorable.
Overall, it's a great music video and in-depth, yet not something we expected when we first heard this song. It's intricate and interesting, I like how some of the scenes are clearly in rewind as she is actually going forwards, but then there are also times when it's clear she's actually walking backwards. It's quite confusing. This is becoming more and more common with music videos at the moment, and will no doubt become a phase.
Let's be honest, since we're all caught up with RuPaul's Drag Race, we all have withdrawal symptoms, enough where we end up just playing music videos that he stars in. This is what happened to me today and I stumbled across this Oz video by Todrick Hall, and it is EPIC! I'm not going to lie, I strayed away from Todrick Hall music videos before RuPaul's Drag Race because I didn't think it was my thing - I couldn't have been more wrong. Watch this Oz inspired music video that shows Dorothy, The Tinman, The Scarecrow, and The Lion, as Todrick Hall and RuPaul perform their collaborative song "Low".
Todrick Hall made his name known on the ninth series of American Idol, where he got as far as the top 16 before being eliminated alongside four other contestants. He later found success on YouTube where he gained a lot of fans. It wasn't long until he guest-judged on RuPaul's Drag Race, where he later became a regular judge. It's clear that Todrick Hall and RuPaul get along brilliantly and there's bound to be more collaborations as this is pure gold. RuPaul, full name RuPaul Charles, is one of the biggest drag queens in the world, and first launched his music career with "Supermodel (You Better Work)" which had international success upon its release in the early 90's; now, thanks to Drag Race, he's really come into his own. This song is part of his most recent album titled "Straight Outta Oz" which collaboratively is a full musical - with this video being just a segment of the whole story - taking inspiration from the Wizard of Oz, as well as his rise to fame in Los Angeles (also known as Oz).
This music video was directed by Todrick Hall and Moorhead&Benson. As I previously stated, this entire clip is from the musical which forms the complete album. This also stars Brittanie Brant as Dorothy, Chester Lockhart as The Scarecrow, Jamie Bennett as The Tinman, and Jojo Guadagno as The Lion.
The narrative itself is very short. It practically introduces the characters to us - which is very much needed since they are quite different to that of who we remember from the original Wizard of Oz. This introduction relates to the song's lyrics so well and works perfectly regardless of how short it is.
The biggest scene in this is the performance piece where we see Todrick Hall and RuPaul perform together. RuPaul isn't in drag whereas Todrick Hall is. The former's biggest scene is where he's in a carriage being pulled by men; let's be honest, we all see RuPaul this way on Drag Race - he's a force to be reckoned with, so watch out!
As for Todrick Hall, he's both the good witch and the bad witch, both Glinda and Elphaba. Clearly reinterpreting this iconic film into there only being one witch; one woman who battles with her inner demons and is just as normal as we all are. We all have the ability to be evil just like we have the ability to be totally good. In stories, people tend to pick a side, but in a normal world we're both, and it's our choices are what makes us who we are and how others portray us.
Overall, this music video is beyond fierce. It makes me want to watch everything together and to see this whole musical. I may have once thought that Todrick Hall wasn't for me, and I do believe he is before his time; but, he's a trendsetter, and has totally won me over. I can't wait to see what he does in the future and I know I'll end up sitting back and watching the complete musical one day.
Was totally struggling to think of a music video to review today, and then this came up on my iTunes and the sample of Suzanne Vega's "Tom's Diner" totally made me decide to review this music video. Today was the first time I saw this visual and it is in-depth and totally addicting, but there's just something missing - it doesn't have the wow-factor. Watch Fall Out Boy enter an amphitheatre like the Colosseum and go up against a gladiator and initially lose before fighting back in this music video for "Centuries".
Fall Out Boy are a four-piece band consisting of Patrick Stump, Joe Trohman, Pete Wentz, and Andy Hurley. They have been going for many years, and have had a number of international hits, back when rock music was on top in mainstream; however, it's rare for rock music to impact the charts nowadays; but, Fall Out Boy is one of those bands that many still listen to and so they still manage to get some high chart numbers. This one, for instance, hit number 22 in the UK and number 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100. It was an international success and continues to prove that Fall Out Boy can still get those chart numbers. As previously mentioned the song samples Suzanne Vega's song "Tom's Diner" with the lyrics sung by singer-songwriter Lolo for this track; the band wanted to 're-inject' the song into popular culture; it was previously a hit through a remix and Britney Spears also covered it with a release by Giorgio Moroder. "Centuries" was written by Michael Fonseca, Raja Kumari, Jonathan Rotem, Justin Tranter, Andy Hurley, Patrick Stump, Joe Trohman, Suzanne Vega, and Pete Wentz.
Directed by Syndrome, this music video has a gladiator-style concept that is completely fitting to the song. The four guys from Fall Out Boy are captured and put into an amphitheatre (which I thought were all called colosseums, but it turns out there's only one Colosseum).
We watch as each of the band members go up against this gladiator, who they have no chance against. But, after they have fallen they collectively come together to create a weapon. The materials come from a hooded man who gave Fall Out Boy a piece of the weapon each, during the opening scene.
This would naturally be the end, but in a true cliff-hanger style, in comes Rick Ross as the next gladiator the guys have to defeat.
It's a great concept and it keeps things interesting throughout; however, there's something majorly missing. I feel that too much time is given to profile scenes of the hosts of the gladiator fight and the cloaked man; rather than keeping the audience interested in what is happening in the arena; and, even though we don't miss much from the battle itself, it just takes the experience away from us.
It is not long until we finally have Kesha's new album playing through our speakers. Yet again, she's given us another music video in promotion of the album; this is her third song from the "Rainbow" album and regardless of the clear low-budget compared to "Praying", it's well thought out and so so so good, just like the previous low-budget music video for "Woman". Whatever's happening with the whole #FreeKesha thing, we know that she is completely on form, for sure. Watch Kesha "Learn To Let Go" in her new music video which delves into the past and her childhood, and see how she takes inspiration from the home videos.
Kesha, full name Kesha Sebert, is preparing the release of her third studio album "Rainbow" and we are so excited. She's released two songs "Praying" and "Woman" which are complete killer tracks, just like this one and really proves that her new album is one that we are going to have on repeat for quite some time. She is still caught up with the court case with Dr. Luke but she's now releasing music and we are loving every new track. This song was written by Kesha Sebert, Pebe Sebert, and Stuart Crichton.
Directed by Isaac Ravishankara, this music video sees Kesha looking back on when she was a child and was all innocent. She transforms the home videos into reimagined scenes and it's beyond beautiful.
The start sees her putting a video tape into the player and her sitting down and watching with us. The walls collapse outwards and she walks through a forest where there are various items that link back to her childhood. We see a giant bed with a giant teddy bear, a truck in parts, a puppet stage, a reimagined swimming pool, and more. At one point, she takes the dance moves shown in a home video and transform them into a choreographed dance scene with her backup dancers; talk about coming up with good ideas!
The ending sees Kesha return to the room with her home videos of her childhood whilst the visual ends with the back of her denim jacket that says "The Sweet Little Devil Herself Ms. Kesha Rose" - we all want a jacket like that.
Another great music video from Kesha, we really should expect nothing less. Very thought out and relatable to the song. It works completely and we can't stop watching. We wish this had a much bigger budget as it could have been beyond awesome; but, regardless, it works well.
Now, this is what you call a collaborative debut single! This is from DJ Khaled. Today is Thursday Revisit, and I was eager to know what DJ Khaled's first single was like, and I actually can't believe that this wasn't an international hit, maybe it was just before its time. It's quite the collaboration and one that definitely becomes memorable after watching it. Watch DJ Khaled in his first music video alongside collaborators Lil Wayne, Paul Wall, Fat Joe, Rick Ross, and Pitbull for his debut single "Holla At Me".
DJ Khaled, real name Khaled Mohammed Khaled, is really on chart-form lately bringing it with his popular collaborations. He has had two UK number one singles to date, and it looks like he will continue to bring out dominating tracks. It shows how things have changed for him, now that he's in the international spotlight - and if this song is anything to go by, it's been coming for some time. On this track is a number of collaborators; Lil Wayne, real name Dwayne Carter Jr., is one of the biggest rap artists in the world and continues to stay on top; Paul Wall, real name Paul Slayton, is best known for his early collaborations with Chamillionaire but then later went solo and even had a number one US album. Then there's Fat Joe, real name Joseph Cartagena, who was in Terror Squad with DJ Khaled and Remy Ma (she also appears in this music video), he was also in Diggin' in the Crates Crew, as a solo artist he's had incredible hits in the early 00's with Ashanti "What's Luv?", as well as Jennifer Lopez on "Hold You Down", with Ricky Martin and Amerie on "I Don't Care", and with Ja Rule and Jadakiss on "New York". Also on this track is Rick Ross, real name William Roberts II, who needs no introduction, it's a name we all definitely know; and then there's Pitbull, real name Armando Pérez, who also needs no introduction as he truly is Mr World Wide as he's songs have charted everywhere - he continues to bring out chart-defying hits and has collaborated with the industry's best artists. This collaboration is full on for a debut single and it works brilliantly. It samples Afrika Bambaataa & The Soulsonic Force's 1983 song "Looking For The Perfect Beat".
Directed by R. Malcolm Jones, this music video is a simple and typical rap and hip-hop visual. It doesn't bring anything new to the table, and yet it is shot amazingly with every artist brings it when it's their time to shine.
As per usual, these sort of music video do not have a lot to them, and this is the exact same. Only, there are a few subtle differences. Lil Wayne stands out completely - which isn't a surprise - where his opening scene totally sets up the video well as he's not surrounded by many people.
It builds as it becomes more of a party, and by the time Pitbull arrives it's packed. This definitely deserves to go down in history as a great collaboration. In the visual, there are cameo appearances by Jim Jones, Birdman, Slim Thug, Dre, Remy Ma, Trina, Trick Daddy, DJ Drama, Scott Scorch, DJ Clue, Cool & Dre (who also produced the track), DJ Felli Fel, and DMX.
Having reviewed this song for Outlet Magazine, I thought I'd give it extra promotion on my blog, as I am slightly obsessed with the clear emotion that Dani Robert has put into this song, and the music video is subtle yet interesting throughout. It has gained over 2,000 YouTube views and 179,000 Spotify streams in the month that this song has been released - which is pretty impressive. It's not much of a surprise considering how great this song really is. Watch Dani Robert perform her song in this black and white visual as we watch two friends grow from toddlers to adults whilst feelings develop in the music video to "Clouds".
Dani Robert is a Canadian singer/songwriter who has been focusing on music ever since she was young. Her path turned her towards becoming a musical therapist, helping people through music. Having worked with music so much, she has crafted her own unique sound, blending different genres to create her first single "Clouds". This is clearly just the start of this fantastic singer/songwriter, and we can't wait to see what the future brings for her.
Directed by Gord Poon and Long Truong, this music video is both narrative and performance based. There's not a lot going on with subtle scenes that totally work throughout.
The performance side shows Dani Robert bringing her song to our attention. She grabs the spotlight throughout this music video as she sings the song and that's not easy to do when this intricate narrative is being shown.
We watch two toddlers together in some cute scenes, which then leads into scenes of them being teenagers and then fully grown adults as they dine together - clearly having a catch-up. Yet, there's more behind it, there's subtle interest in each other as they grow, and it's clear that the feelings for each other build. However, even as adults they don't cross that line of friendship.
Overall, an in-depth and intense music video, that relates to the song well. It has this sad aspect to it, one we've all felt now and again. It's relatable to the viewers, and the subtleness is something that is so difficult to capture - yet they've managed to do just that.
Aminata is back with another brilliant song and music video that it's shocking to think that this Latvian singer didn't win Eurovision 2015 with her epic song "Love Injected"; however she continues to bring out amazing follow-ups that just demand all of our attention. How she isn't an internationally-known star, yet, I do not know; just explore her music and you'll see exactly what I'm talking about. This song is pure magic, and is the start of new music from Aminata - we literally cannot wait to hear more. This is on fire from start to finish. Watch Aminata perform her new song whilst showcasing Latvian fashion, culture, dance, and sport in this music video for "Prime Time".
Aminata, full name Aminata Savadogo, first came to my attention when she represented Latvia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2015 with her awesome song "Love Injected". She came sixth with 188 points, but that year was definitely highly competitive. Since then she went on to release more incredible singles and two albums; we hope that the release of this song is the start of her dropping her third. This song is beyond catchy with a brilliant sing-a-long hook that we can't get out of our heads! The song was written by Jonas Brogger Filtenborg, Edvin Hjertquist, and Aminata Savadogo.
Directed by Steve Spencer, this music video is a pure performance piece with Aminata taking the central spotlight as she dips into various attention-grabbing scenes. She's stylish throughout, and I am obsessed with her socks and skirt look at the start - if it's now acceptable for men to wear shorts and socks, it's time for women to embrace skirts and socks because Aminata rocks this look perfectly.
There are various scenes throughout, the tattoo scene is sexy, the football scene is fierce, and the dancing throughout is on point. The visual shows Aminata performing her song, bringing it like we've seen her do plenty of times before.
It's another great performance visual from Aminata and really works with the song. Yet, this isn't all that memorable next to the song, it feels like there's too much going on whilst not enough is being shown in each scene. Some shots look like there's a narrative that isn't shown, especially with the tape going into a parcel. Not fully expanded, but works nonetheless.
We have a whole new number one guys! Once again, it's DJ Khaled, only this time he didn't need the help of Justin Bieber to rise to the top; instead, this is a collaboration with Rihanna and Bryson Tiller. However, it is set to be a one-week number one as "Despacito" by Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee featuring Justin Bieber plans to climb to the top once again - summer is truly here. Rihanna totally shines on the track but in the video, she doesn't have her star quality and something is certainly missing. Watch DJ Khaled, Rihanna & Bryson Tiller perform "Wild Thoughts" in Little Haiti, Miami, Florida, amongst the streets and up in the sky in this music video for the song which is the current UK number one.
DJ Khaled, real name Khaled Mohamed Khaled, has really turned into an international star after "I'm The One" charted all over the world, and now he is continuing his success with hit single after hit single. DJ Khaled is seriously becoming someone everyone wants to collaborate with and I am excited to see what killer songs he is going to release next. On this track is Rihanna, real name Robyn Rihanna Fenty, who needs no introduction... You'd have had to be living under the biggest rock in the world to not know who she is; however, her latest songs haven't impacted the chart that well and aren't all that catchy, in my opinion. I do miss her club hits from years ago, nothing can top "Don't Stop The Music". Then there's also Bryson Tiller on this track too. This is the first time he has charted inside the UK Top 40 and at the top too, opening the UK public to his music, although his albums have charted well to date. The song incorporates a sample from "Maria Maria" by Santana, hence the long list of songwriters; who are DJ Khaled, PartyNextDoor, Bryson Tiller, Rihanna, Raul Rekow, David Mcrae, Marvin Moore-Hough, Carlos Santana, Karl Perazzo, Wyclef Jean, and Jerry "Wonder" Duplessis.
Directed by Colin Tilley - one of the top music video directors around at the moment - the music video was filmed in Little Haiti, Miami, Florida. It's mainly a performance piece as Rihanna is fierce throughout whilst DJ Khaled takes the spotlight at times and Bryson Tiller remains in the background in some interestingly visual profile shots.
The start sees DJ Khaled and Rihanna walking down the street; interspersed with shots of people at an event, enjoying the music. She acts confident and sassy during her walk and even does some dancing with DJ Khaled.
Next, we see her wearing a floaty blue dress which certainly doesn't flatter her at all, in a bedroom. Her clothing for this music video is very relaxed and chilling; it doesn't scream high fashion and probably explains why she doesn't shine throughout the video.
For his part, Bryson Tiller brings it in the song, but he also doesn't shine enough during his visual. Bryson Tiller and Rihanna do bring wild thoughts but it's just not enough there to entertain the audience. Apart from the gorgeous performance ending, that sees all three artists on a block as fireworks light up the sky behind them - which is a brilliant scene although that's to do with the concept and not the artists themselves - the music video just doesn't keep the audience interested and this just feels like another music video to mix in with all the other average ones out there.
