On to the Eurovision Song Contest 2015. This was a year I wasn't so fond of, and I only have a few favourites from this year. This is certainly not one of them, but this is my home country. I am not sure what they were thinking when they chose this song, it certainly wasn't a public decision, and we knew we wouldn't do well as soon as it was announced. The United Kingdom and Electro Velvet came 24th with five points. Electro Velvet perform in front of dancers in this jazz/dance music video that looks like it was made for the 20's, I'm totally not "Still In Love With You".
Electro Velvet were a duo consisting of Alex Larke and Bianca Nicholas. None of the artists were known as soloists, although Alex Larke had been in the music industry for a short while, whilst Bianca Nicholas had appeared on The Voice UK. She never got past the coaches auditions. They were planning on releasing an album through Pledge Music, but it was cancelled. They have now parted ways. They were chosen through internal selection, but it's hard to believe this was the best song that was entered to The BBC for Eurovision 2015. This song was written by David Mindel and Adrian Bax White.
The music video is just as dire as the song. Really taking the concept of the song being a modern twist on 1920's swing music, they have made the video feel really old fashioned.
No modern twist on the video, unless you count the UV paint, which doesn't even belong in the video in the first place.
A pure performance music video, Alex Larke is in his element, he is loving this song and it's video, but he's that sort of guy who would like this music. As for Bianca Nicholas, she's trying to look like she's enjoying it just as much, but it's not really her style of music, and that is clear.
The dancing relates more to the swing side of the musical composition, and any scenes of a possible narration aren't developed enough to fully include the audience. It just doesn't work.
After writing an article about this music video for CelebMix, I just have to write a more in-depth piece for my blog. I became a fan of her music as soon as she represented Australia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2016. Her vocals are astonishing, especially in this club-like euro-pop track; unfortunately the song isn't doing that well on an international scale, although in Australia it's not doing too bad. I still believe she is a star in the making, and I cannot wait for a new album. In this video, Dami Im is "Fighting For Love" in a fashionable and emotional performance piece, whilst a choreography scene interprets the song into a contemporary dance segment.
Dami Im represented Australia at the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest. She came second with "Sound Of Silence", just being beaten by the Ukraine entrant. She previously won The X Factor Australia in 2013. In anticipation of a possible new album, this song was released as a follow-up to "Sound of Silence". It's been well-received by the media, but promotion is key in Europe, and obviously Australia, since this single isn't fairing so well in her home country, but it is doing much worse in Europe. This song shows us the sort of music she's been working on and the direction she has taken. Clearly, she has been heavily influenced by Eurovision and Europe music, and she's ready to be an international star. This song was written by Anthony Egizii and David Musumeci.
The video is incredibly stylish, although reminiscent of "Sound of Silence" because of it being split between a performance piece and a dance scene. Although the former single is much more dark whereas this one is stylish and colourful.
Dami Im performs with her usual engagement vibes that capture the audience instantly. She looks completely stunning throughout in the three different outfits. The stylists have done a brilliant job on set, managing to capture Dami Im's beauty amongst the gorgeous clothes that are very current yet highly fashionable.
The dance scene interprets the song into relatable choreography that is pulled off flawlessly. The contemporary dance is lovingly emotional.
It has been edited well, flitting between the various scenes. But Dami Im totally shines throughout, which is to be expected since it is her music video. The dancers are a nice refresh from her performance piece.
It's Chart Mondays again, and we have a new number one! Once again, Clean Bandit remain supreme on the UK Charts. This marks their second number one after "Rather Be", and it is their sixth top ten hit. It was released a few weeks ago and had stalled at number three, before jumping to the top spot. Sean Paul racks up another number one; but, finally, Anne-Marie has scored her biggest hit, her vocals are pure fire on this track and I knew she was destined for success! Clean Bandit, now as a three-piece, perform in a bar with Anne-Marie and Sean Paul whilst the narrative shows a mother doing what she has to do to support her child in the "Rockabye" music video.
Clean Bandit are now a three-piece band consisting of Grace Chatto, Jack Patterson, and Luke Patterson. Recently Neil Amin-Smith left the band but that doesn't stop Clean Bandit releasing killer hits. They are definitely one of the biggest bands out at the moment, with everyone watching to see what is next for them. They will always be a massive influence in music, there is no stopping Clean Bandit. Featuring on this track is Sean Paul, full name Sean Paul Henriques, and Anne-Marie, full name Anne-Marie Nicholson. The former has worked with some of the biggest stars, managing to help them reach number one, most notably with The Saturdays on "What About Us"; however, he's never had a solo number one yet. He is definitely one of the biggest reggae/hip-hop artists around at the moment. Anne-Marie isn't exactly new to the music industry, having built her career up from no chart placements to hitting number one with this song, talk about never giving up; you go, girl! This song was written by Jack Patterson, Steve Mac, Ammar Malik, Ina Wroldsen, and Sean Paul Henriques.
The music video is directed by Grace Chatto and Jack Patterson. It features a number of actors and dancers as well as a pole dancer. Dancers are Siriana Mecca, Rita Maria Conte, Nife agunbiade, Alicja Blachut, and Joanne Elizz. The young boy is played by Elijah Dallen.
In the video, there is both a narrative and a performance piece. The narrative focuses on single mothers, and how they end up being someone they never thought they would be to support their child.
The woman is a pole dancer, although she makes it look effortlessly sexy, turning it more into an art-form than that of what our perspectives of pole dancing are. She is a total expert.
Anne-Marie shines throughout in the performance piece, nothing we wouldn't expect because she manages to nail it every time in every music video. She was amazing at Birmingham Pride, when I saw her perform. Sean Paul adds some comedy as the pub punters lip-sync to his lyrics in his performance piece.
There's an amazing dance scene, with Grace Chatto proving her dance ability; totally in sync with the backing girls, it's nice to see her doing something different. She also took to the stage at Wembley at the Kiss Haunted House Party 2016 and danced her way through this song to massive cheers!
There's not much else to comment on, this video is jam-packed with a flawless performance piece and a stunning narrative that is endearing to watch. There is not one problem with this music video. It's completely beautiful with high emotion that makes an intended impact.
Finally, with the help of The X Factor, Nathan Sykes might have quite the hit on his hands. He seems to be trying to find his style, especially with the varying different singles he has released in anticipation of his debut album. He performed this song on The X Factor today, and it's been raking up the iTunes charts, which makes a change. It really shows how promotion can help to make a career. At first, the music video looks like it's set in the past, but we see that Nathan Sykes and Madison Iseman are acting. He's clearly interested, but she is already involved with the director. Momentous occasions happen, but it never goes anywhere with "Famous".
Nathan Sykes is best known for being one of five members of boy band The Wanted, who had extremely massive global success before their split. Since then, Nathan Sykes has been building his solo career. This marks his fourth single from his debut album. "Famous" is another emotional ballad that has some serious pop and blues vibes flowing through. It was written by Nathan Sykes, Harmony Samuels, Major Johnson Finley, Carmen Reece, and Edgar "JV" Etienne.
Directed by Ivanna Smyrnova, this narrative video really proves Nathan Sykes' ability to act, this isn't the first time he has managed to impress us; "Over and Over Again" is just as emotional and amazing.
In the video, Nathan Sykes is looking incredibly hot throughout. He is interested in his on-set love interest played by actress Madison Iseman. Unfortunately, she's with the director, which leaves Nathan Sykes lusting after her in all the visuals.
The concept is one that is completely relatable to a lot of people. We've all been there, wanting someone we can't have, having moments with that person but not going for it. There is an obvious attraction between the two, yet it never goes anywhere.
The performance side of things is engaging to an extent, Nathan Sykes looks dashingly handsome as he sings the catchy song. Much like his performance on The X Factor, it doesn't progress; just like the narration of the video.
Visually, this video is artistic, beautiful, gorgeous (in more ways than one), and engaging. The narration is flawless and easily relatable. However, the performance side of things is slightly lacking, regardless of the fact that it's high-quality and Nathan Sykes is looking handsome.
It's Zayday Williams from Scream Queens! Yes, that's right Keke Palmer is in Scream Queens, but I never knew she could sing, Very different from the character she plays on the show, she exudes confidence; you're fire girl! She's been in many films and TV series and has been attempting a musical career for many years. Keke Palmer stuns as an Ancient Egyptian empress in this music video for "Hands Free", overly confident but with a killer dance scene, watch out for her!
Keke Palmer, real name Lauren Keyana Palmer, is an actress and singer. Trying to do both isn't easy at all, and very rarely people make it big in both industries, yet Keke Palmer is proving that she can. I came across this thanks to YouTube suggestions and being a massive fan of Scream Queens totally would've brought me here eventually. Keke Palmer is certainly a star, she is hardworking and it clearly pays off. She's like the young version of Jennifer Lopez and I literally cannot wait to see what the future brings for her. This song was written by Sean Garrett and Blair Andre Atkinson.
This Ancient Egyptian music video was directed by Rosero McCoy. Keke Palmer talks about believing in yourself during a black and white radio interview before launching into colour with an air of arrogance, that totally gets backed up when she proves her worthiness of singing and dancing. This girl can move, no wonder she's an empress in the video. Confidence overload but in a good way.
There are three scenes in this music video, the first one sees her sitting on a chair being carried around. She makes it seem like this is part of her normal life, totally proving her brilliant acting ability.
The dance scene is incredible. The choreography relates to the song and is effortlessly pulled off by Keke Palmer, who is still wearing her confidence like she's Beyoncé; yet, although it can come across as arrogance at first, she backs it up, proving that this is what she's meant to be doing. She may not have had a hit single yet, but she's not going to give up. She's in sync with her backing dancers throughout.
Her sexy shower bathing segment in the same scene is a little too over the top, it's like they tried to sex it up even more, but it just doesn't work. Luckily the video transforms into the main performance piece.
Keke Palmer belongs on stage, this totally proves it with her dancing on point as she performs to the crowd. She reminds me of P!nk, when she first launched onto the music scene. Keke Palmer has huge potential, and those of you lucky enough to see her live in concert are definitely going to be in for a treat. This video is definitely a try-hard visual yet Keke Palmer's star potential works the entire thing and prevents this from being a complete disaster.
Not the usual New Release, but feel free to look at the new releases for this week and direct me to an official music video, because as much as I want to review some of them, they just don't have videos annoyingly. And so, I turned to Twitter for help and I stumbled across this one. Indian dance pop music isn't really my thing, but my blog is a mix of everything. I'm not going to deny that this is quite catchy with it's pulsing beats and Esho's vocals. The music video for Esho's "Oye Hoye Jawaani" has a brilliant dance scene, sexy moves and a great performance piece.
Esho, also known as Divyansh Tripathi, is a singer and a producer. He composed this entire song all by himself, which is pretty impressive all by itself. This is his debut single, and infuses Indian music with EDM and dance with a pop twist. If anyone can bring Indian music to an international audience it's Esho. "Oye Hoye Jawaani" is going to be one of the unknown songs that you just want to hear again at some point. This song was written by Esho.
Directed by Rajesh Mandal, the music video has some serious pop vibes coming from it. It has a slight narrative with an all-right dance sequence that launches into an epic dance choreography performance piece.
There is only one female in this video, who is the central love interest. It's actually nice not to see girls clinging to a guy whilst his singing; this breath of fresh air totally brings some sassiness to this video. The love interest actress isn't known, but if you know her name feel free to comment below.
Throughout, Esho manages to perform with an air of confidence. He is made to be on stage. His dancing is relaxed, and the sequence in question is easy, yet flawlessly pulled off. Unfortunately he doesn't stay with the dancers, who continue on with a some brilliant choreography.
The music video doesn't have a narrative; it's slight if you count the interactions between Esho and his love interest, but nothing story-like forms. This is okay though because Esho makes up for this in his performance part of the whole video. It works well, but should be a bit more developed, and some camera shots aren't that great as well as the lighting, but as a debut music video, Esho has done well! I expect to hear more from him.
It's Thursday, and so it's revisit time. I chose this one purely because I remember it being on the music channels and being surprised that this was will.i.am's breakout single after The Black Eyed Peas went on a hiatus. Whilst Fergie was releasing awesome hits, will.i.am came out with this, which still did moderately well globally. In this music video for "I Got It From My Mama", will.i.am is surrounded by girls on a beach, totally playing up and checking them out nonstop.
will.i.am, real name William Adams, is known as one of four members of The Black Eyed Peas. He launched his solo career as the group went on their first hiatus. At the time, female singer from the group, Fergie, also launched her solo career. It's clear The Black Eyed Peas were and still are incredible because both these solo careers hit it off. Surprisingly, this song did well, but it isn't until years later that will.i.am became a chart-topping success. This song peaked at number 31 in the US, and number 39 in the UK, amongst other global charts. Eight years later PSY ended up sampling the song for "Daddy". This song was written by William Adams, Jean-Luc Drion, and Dominique Régiacorte. Uncredited female vocals come from Kat Graham (who is probably best known, now, as Bonnie Bennett in The Vampire Diaries).
Directed by Bryan Barber, the music video starts off with will.i.am flipping through a magazine. That magazine is later folded closed to reveal a beach with many girls playing on the beach, whilst will.i.am is relaxing on a sun lounger. It's quite the creepy scene, but this is a music video after all.
The song is catchy regardless, and will.i.am is the only male on the beach in Brazil. There's not an awful lot going on, apart from will.i.am totally distracted and completely checking every girl out.
This pure performance piece is styled fantastically with great editing tricks throughout. However it's not that engaging, and I actually can't believe this was shown during the daytime on UK music channels. It may be suggestive at times, but when I first saw this, it totally went over my head. It failed to interest me because I've always been gay. However it does relate to the song, so even though I'm here slating it, if it were all hot guys on the beach it would be a different story. So... Taking that into account, I can see the video for what it is. Also, will.i.am's personality really shines in this.
Finally, after this review, I've reviewed all my favourites from Eurovision 2014; next week I will be starting on Eurovision 2015, and then I'm completely caught up, maybe in time for the new year? Maybe; I doubt it. Conchita Wurst was the talk of the Eurovision Song Contest 2014, and so winning wasn't quite a massive surprise since she had a killer song, brilliant vocals, a stunning dress and performance, and a tonne of support from the LGBT+ community. She represented Austria and took the contest to her country after winning with 290 points. Tom Neuwirth dressed in drag as Conchita Wurst gives a solid sexy performance of "Rise Like A Phoenix" in this music video.
Tom Neuwirth has tried being a successful solo singer, he even managed to become the runner-up in Austrian TV show Starmania. He then became a part of boyband Jetzt Anders! but they disbanded the same year they were put together. Conchita Wurst came about a little bit later, where she entered Die Große Chance, Conchita Wurst came sixth in 2011; then came second on Eurovision Selection show Österreich rockt den Song Contest 2012; as for 2014, she was internally selected, and what a great choice that was. It pretty much launched Conchita Wurst as one of the world's most known drag queens, she just needs to keep her limelight. This song was written by Charlie Mason, Joey Patulka, Ali Zuckowski, and Julian Maas.
The music video is a full performance piece. Conchita Wurst is looking incredibly confident and sexy. This just wouldn't work if it were Tom Neuwirth. People can say what they like about drag queens, but there's something incredible about spending all that time on makeup and clothes and wigs, and in Conchita Wurst's case, her beard; and then working it like no other.
There are a few different scenes, but the main focus is on the bath and the rose petals. It's quite sultry, definitely sexy. Her performance is fire throughout, passion for every single word Conchita Wurst really identifies with this song. Considering no record label would record this, and then it won Eurovision, and charted well globally, just proves the impact of this song and the artist.
Yet the video is lacking. This could've had a beautiful narrative, yet we're given a performance piece that doesn't quite engage. Conchita Wurst looks good throughout, but she brought more to the table during the Eurovision 2014 Grand Final than in this music video. This song will always be a favourite of mine and resonates deeply within.
Totally not sure what to make of this one, couldn't decide what video to review, but since Matoma and Becky Hill are doing well on my blog with "False Alarm", I thought I might as well do this one. I love the concept of this video and yet it doesn't quite flow as well as we hope, plus it is extremely short, this is over before we know it. The Vamps take a trip around town, "All Night", whilst swapping the camera in an eerie Cloverfield-like music video, which also includes Matoma DJing.
The Vamps are a four-piece band consisting of Connor Ball, Tristan Evans, James McVey, and Brad Simpson. They are going from strength to strength, although it's been quite the rocky road, not quite getting a noticeable hit. All it will take is a number one, their debut single "Can We Dance" hit number two, as well as third single "Last Night"; but even with the help of Shawn Mendes, Demi Lovato, and Pixie Lott on tracks "Oh Cecilia (Breaking My Heart)", "Somebody To You", and "Wild Heart" hasn't got them to the top. As for Matoma, real name Tom Lagergren, he totally made his name with Becky Hill on track "False Alarm". He's probably going to be a name we'll end up hearing a lot from if he keeps collaborating and keeps releasing. The song was written by Justin Franks, John Mitchell, Daniel Majic, and The Vamps.
Directed by Craig Moore, this video definitely takes inspiration from the Cloverfield movie, and yet switches it up with this massive camera transferring from one person to another. However, this three and a half minutes are way too short to fully enjoy.
The start is a clear product proposal for got2be by Schwarzkopf. Hair products, makeup, and fragrances always do well for product proposals in music videos. If these stars are using them, why not us?
We watch The Vamps disappear out into the city, planning on spending all night out. They pass the camera through touch, but it's clear from the start that continuity errors will make this video completely fail. Plenty of times a camera man is filming, who we never get to see. Disregarding this as well as the fact that sometimes we are watching from the wrong camera because they touched hands with someone else; this video is incredible.
The crossover to Matoma is clever but kind of lets the video down. I wanted more from Matoma, maybe have The Vamps actually there on stage, or maybe even get the audience involved and pass the camera to them. The Vamps do it with the dancer, the drifting car driver, and the basketball player; so why not Matoma's audience too?
There are too many scenes to comment on in this video, and yet it's way too short. It's quick snapshots of a fantastic music video, that is, unfortunately, full of continuity errors and failed viewership. This was released, just under a month ago. This means they have worked hard on this, and kudos totally go out to the editing team, but more time and effort to make this a solid flowing video would've made this perfect. Love this concept, though!
It's a Monday, and Little Mix is still at number one with "Shout Out To My Ex", which is amazingly catchy. This opens the top ten to my Chart Monday review. I've chosen this one because it was at number one for many weeks without a music video, but finally it has one just as it's dropping out of the top ten. Sexual tension between The Chainsmokers' Andrew Taggart and Halsey at a party is completely visible, as flashbacks of a past night where they slept together is reminisced over.
The Chainsmokers are a duo consisting of Andrew Taggart and Alex Pall. They made their name known when they released "#SELFIE" but it wasn't until a few years later, through a reinvention of their music, that they once again hit fame, but this is clearly their best-selling single. I am hoping they will reinvent themselves once again, something we aren't expecting and it'll be even bigger than this was. Featured artist is Halsey, real name Ashley Frangipane, who has made quite the name for herself in the media, but has yet to have a hit song. Then again, this one is totally her best yet. This song was written by Andrew Taggart, Ashley Frangipane, Shaun Frank, Frederic Kennett, Isaac Slade, and Joe King. Highly compared to The Fray's "Over My Head (Cable Car)", the latter two songwriters were added for credit.
This music video was a long time coming, but it's here now, directed by Dano Cerny, it's a great concept. An elaborate performance piece situated in quite an awkward narrative.
Sexual tension is obvious between these two singers. As they lock eyes at a party, Andrew Taggart and Halsey remember what happened between them some other night in the past. This is where things get even more steamy.
They start making out in the middle of a different party, which is then taken back to a bedroom, where both artists are in a state of undress. They both look incredibly sexy. Full of sexual chemistry, with tantalising quirks that we all wish we were doing with another person in a bed instead of watching this video, which is totally making us jealous; or just me.
The ending sees Halsey walking out of the party, not being able to deal with her ex being at the same party as her; I know exactly how she feels. Yet, this is where our similarities end because Andrew Taggart follows her outside, and it's clear there's still an attraction between them. Some sort of unfinished business.
A fully fleshed narrative that everyone can relate to, with a sexy performance piece during a gorgeous bed scene. We've waited so long for this music video, yet it was so worth it especially since they have knocked it out of the park!
This dropped recently, and I just HAD to review it, especially after hearing it live at the Kiss Haunted House Party 2016. This full on party anthem was initially sung for the first time at the Kiss Haunted House Party 2016, where I captured the entire performance of the song. It was released the following day and then was performed on The X Factor, just last week. The song is her first solo effort since winning the contest, not counting the winner's single "Forever Young". Louisa Johnson goes out, it was only meant to be for an hour or two. A bar performance and a brawl all happen in this "So Good" music video.
Louisa Johnson won the twelfth series of The X Factor. She is known as the only winner never to hit the top two with her winning song; unfortunately, she got to number nine with "Forever Young". However, teaming up with Clean Bandit for song "Tears" was an amazing idea and once again pushed her into the limelight. This definitely helped to further her potential success. This song is completely catchy, it's party inspired but quite a slow ballad pop song that we can't get out of our heads! It was written by Steve Mac, Chelcee Grimes & Ed Drewett,
Directed by Emil Nava, a constant name we hear often in the directing of music videos. this was obviously going to be theatrical from the first few seconds.
Louisa Johnson performs in bed, clearly waking from a possible nap? Other scenes show her performing at an empty petrol station and a bar.
This bar is an important part of the music video. She steps onto the stage and sings the song. The bar is practically deserted apart from the drunken guys, one of who steps up to her and dances. This guy is shoved away by her crowd.
The girl group later go outside to beat up the men outside who are ranting at them. It would've been good if they had all cartwheeled forwards at the same time, but it's slightly out of sync. Louisa Johnson just stands in the middle and sings.
As a whole, it's an okay music video. It's clearly high-budgeted and has a similar feel to Alexandra Burke's "Bad Boys", yet it's trying to make Louisa Johnson way more classy. It incredibly theatrical, yet nothing to follow-up. The video does suit the song well, though.
Literally didn't know what to review today, so I let my iTunes pick by playing all my songs on random, this one came up and I was like, okay. I am slightly surprised I haven't reviewed this yet. It was released after the awesome collaboration with Miss Britney Spears on "Scream & Shout". It worked well. will.i.am becomes robotic whilst Justin Bieber is a hologram in a futuristic take during the music video of "#thatPOWER".
will.i.am is quickly becoming a household name, if he isn't already. Definitely one of the leaders in the music industry, his real name is William Adams. He has worked with some of the biggest stars, and his own band, the Black Eyed Peas, are embedded in history as one of the biggest groups. There is really no stopping will.i.am and I cannot wait to see where The Voice UK coach ends up. Collaborating on this track is Justin Bieber, another high-profile male artist, with various hits under his name just like will.i.am. Such a massive collaboration, it's no wonder this song did so well. It was written by William Adams, Damien Leroy, and Justin Bieber.
Directed by Ben Mor, and filmed in Japan, the video features will.i.am as a robotic dancer, Justin Bieber as a hologram and there are appearances from Japanese dance group World Order.
There is an alternative music video available to watch alongside this one through Shazam. This additional video has no audio; it is supposed to give you an alternative viewing experience by allowing you to view it alongside this one so you can notice the differences.
As a whole, it's an innovative idea, definitely futuristic, which makes it quite clever since the music video is futuristic.
The dancing is on point throughout, we expect nothing less from will.i.am. However, I find it very unfortunate that Justin Bieber wasn't there in person. The hologram makes him look dead or something, suggesting he never made it to the future. The dancing is occasionally out of sync, but it can be forgiven since they are subtle.
World Order are amazing in their scene. Defying dancing as we know it and managing to easily stun us throughout.
There's not a lot else to comment on. This is totally interesting from start to finish, and it feels like it's part of a bigger picture. There's just something missing, there should be a more expansive narrative. Nothing continues the video on, it's hard to understand what is going on.
Okay, so this was someone I didn't like on The X Factor, a joke act on the show, so to speak. Now he's this glorified drag queen, and I like him a little more. I kind of wish he had entered The X Factor as Sarah Lee, as I would've supported him all the way through The X Factor. However, is this just an attention-seeking alter-ego, especially when we have credible artists who are drag queens like RuPaul and Conchita Wurst. If he had released this song as Sarah Lee, and encouraged people to call him by that name when he's in drag, then fair enough, but personally, to me, this is an exposure ploy. Johnny Robinson, dressed as Sarah Lee, performs in this music video for "Deliver Me" whilst a guy plays the violin.
Johnny Robinson was a contestant during the eighth series of The X Factor. He came eighth overall. Various other artists from that year have gone on to have successful careers, whether that's in music, on the stage or in other ways. Regardless of what people said, the eighth series managed to create some artists that are highly talked about to this day. Johnny Robinson has previously released music, most notably a Christmas song in 2012. Now, as Sarah Lee but known as Johnny Robinson even when he's dressed in drag, he has released this single. It was written by Jon Marsh and Helena Marsh.
The music video is extremely basic, but I have to give kudos for Johnny Robinson; he looks stunning as Sarah Lee. It really shows what makeup and a wig can do! Sarah Lee looks fire!
It is mainly a performance piece, the thing is Sarah Lee isn't performing that well, Johny Robinson did much better on The X Factor stage, but in this music video, he seems more concerned about looking good for the camera rather than trying to give a good performance.
I don't quite understand the violin player, perhaps he's the love interest that Sarah Lee is singing to, but it just fails to flow.
At the end of the day, I think Johnny Robinson should continue to release music as Sarah Lee. I'm sure he would have a more successful career as a drag artist. However, they should release the music under Sarah Lee, rather than confusing the world by putting his actual name on the track.
This was obviously going to be a part of my Halloween Special. This music video is monumental, it's iconic, it's the one everyone still talks about today! My blog has been going for over five years, and it shocks even me that I have never reviewed this music video, actually I don't think I've ever watched it from start to finish before today. But now, it's time to redeem my blog by making sure this gets reviewed, and what better way than being a part of my Halloween Special? Michael Jackson turns into a werewolf and a zombie in this "Thriller" music video, but is it all just in her head?
Michael Jackson, what am I meant to say about THE Michael Jackson? He's a total legend, everyone knows who he is and he definitely shaped music as it is today. Surprisingly, this song didn't chart as well in the UK as it did everywhere else as well as his other singles. It got to number 10 in the UK and has yet to peak higher than that, regardless of the multiple entries in the UK chart. The song will forever appear on Halloween playlists and is always the first song people think of regarding Halloween. "Thriller" was written by Rod Temperton. It was originally called "Starlight", but through many transformations, it became the title it is now.
Michael Jackson had a vision for this music video, having seen 'An American Werewolf In London', he wanted the director of the movie to be the director of his music video. John Landis agreed. The love interest is played by actress Ola Ray.
We watch as a car runs out of fuel, Michael Jackson and Ola Ray start to walk home. He asks her to be his girl and gives her a ring to make it official. That's when he admits that he's not like other guys; he next transforms into a werewolf and chases after the girl.
The scene changes to modern-day with Michael Jackson and Ola Ray in the cinema, watching the previous scene. She leaves the cinema because she's not enjoying it. Michael Jackson follows her out and starts to sing the opening verse, whilst dancing around her.
They walk past a graveyard; this is when Vincent Price's vocal part kicks in and we watch skeletons rise from their graves, almost like zombies. They catch up with Michael Jackson and Ola Ray circling them.
This is where Michael Jackson turns into a zombie and the iconic dance scene begins. This is completely flawless from start to finish. The choreography really focuses on the storyline and makes it relatable. Everyone is in sync and it's more than perfect.
Ola Ray runs into a house and shuts the door but that doesn't stop the zombies from coming in and chasing her. Zombie Michael Jackson closes in. But the next moment, he's back to normal and there are no zombies. Ola Ray calms down and gets off the couch, allowing Michael Jackson to take her into his arms. What she doesn't see is Michael Jackson looking back at the camera and his eyes gleam yellow. He surely isn't like other guys.
The ending was recreated for Britney Spears' epic video for "I Wanna Go". The iconic dance scene has been covered plenty of times. This video as a whole has got it all, and it is definitely one of the best music videos ever made. It's got a great narrative, a brilliant performance piece, and an eerie ending that you can't help but love!
My Halloween Special isn't all about the new Halloween songs, old ones have to totally be included as well. Although I am more of a fan of the more recent version of this song by Beatfreakz, which is also called "Somebody's Watching Me", there is just something more haunting about the original. The song features Michael Jackson singing the chorus, with Jermaine Jackson provides backing vocals. Rockwell arrives home thinking that "Somebody's Watching Me" inside his house. He envisions items and people, turning it into a very paranoid music video.
Rockwell, real name Kennedy Gordy, is the son of Motown founder Berry Gordy. He had a short-lived career in the 80's, releasing three albums and ten singles. This debut single is his biggest hit, possibly because of the featured vocals of Michael Jackson as well as the backing vocals from Jermaine Jackson. The song hit the UK charts at number six, but Beatfreakz did better by hitting number three in the UK. In the US, Rockwell hit number two with this song. But got to the top spot in Spain and Belgium. The song was written by Rockwell.
The music video is low-budget and directed by Francis Delia. It's a complete narrative with a short performance piece embedded within.
Rockwell arrives home to discover his house has become haunted. He envisions various things, from his dog being a mutant pig, to someone watching him in the shower. It's relatable from start to finish.
The star is really not having the best time in his house. Even the people on the TV come up to the screen and watch him. There's also this freakish butler who appears in the background of the thumbnail. He also envisions himself buried in the graveyard, as well as various other spooky things.
This is inspired by the film 'Psycho', but the visions is reminiscent of 'The Dead Zone'. The haunted house theme is a classic Halloween storyline that always manages to scare. Michael Jackson, unfortunately, doesn't appear in the music video, regardless of the fact that he provides the vocals for the chorus, neither does Jermaine Jackson.
The ending of the video leaves it on quite the cliff-hanger, maybe his visions were all leading up to this point. It's a great low-budget music video that has everything we could possibly need. The singing in the shower performance piece isn't so engaging and feels a little too fake and Rockwell is totally not comfortable being filmed in the shower.
My Eurovision Special continues regardless of the fact that I'm in the middle of a Halloween Special. I've been lucky recently with my New Release and Chart Mondays slightly relating to my Halloween Special, but this music video isn't haunting or scary whatsoever. So this looks totally out of place on my blog, although the thumbnail looks quite mysterious. The Common Linnets represented The Netherlands at the Eurovision Song Contest 2014. They came second with 238 points. For a country song to be in the Eurovision alone is an amazing feat, but for it to do this well is amazing! The Common Linnets walk around the woods and the beach in this black and white music video for "Calm After The Storm".
The Common Linnets are a four piece country band that have had a major line-up change since the 2014 Eurovision Song Contest. They consisted of Ilse DeLange, Waylon (Willem Bijkerk), JB Meijers, and Matthew Crosby with the addition of Rob Crosby. Nowadays, Waylon and Rob Crosby have left the group and Waylon has been replaced with Jake Etheridge. The band was chosen through internal selection to represent the Netherlands. They went on to release a self-titled album which did well internationally, as well as re-releasing it with additional tracks. The song did amazingly globally, and at times even charted better than the winner of Eurovision 2014. The song was written by Ilse DeLange, JB Meijers, Rob Crosby, Matthew Crosby, and Jake Etheridge.
The music video is completely shot in black and white. We watch as Ilse DeLange and Waylon walk through the forest, in what looks like a barn, and along the beach.
As the song plays you can feel the emotions they have for each other flow between them.
There isn't an awful lot going on in the music video, a lot of suggestive relationship content, but it's more of a visual piece, a lot of close-ups but no performance or narrative. Shadows play an important role, but they're not developed enough. Not memorable, not relatable, and not engaging at all.
Literally ecstatic when this was released, not only because Bronnie is an amazing singer, but because I've been planning this Halloween Special, for my blog, for years now and I'm so happy to be including Bronnie within. My plan was to make this video kickstart this Special, but I have been behind on my blog since I went to Kiss Haunted House Party 2016. Now, I'm all caught up and ready to review the music video to my favourite 2016 Halloween song! Bronnie sends out gothic vibes with this haunting music video for "Scared Much". Including many Halloween-related objects whilst she performs in a forest; this can't become anymore spookier.
This haunting music video relates well with the song. At times there are exact translations of the songs lyrics which work well as visuals. It is a pure performance piece.
Bronnie is completely energetic throughout the video, not at all bothered that her head is floating above her body. She pulls off the floating head makeup trick perfectly. Her bright pink hair contrasts brilliantly.
The forest is entrancing, she manages to portray her love for this song as she heads towards the camera. Her stage presence is infectious, totally captivating and fully energetic throughout the video. This is exactly how she reacts on stage.
Other scenes include her dressing table that has a tonne of Halloween objects on, including a haunting mirror which allows us to see Bronnie get ready. Tarot cards, a crystal ball, candles and skulls complete the haunting visuals in this video. There is also a freakish ouija board!
Overall, this video has got it all going on; spooky, thrilling, haunting, what more could we want from Bronnie? The song was recorded at Edge Recording Studio. The video relates well with the song, with some great visual translations.
A bit of Rihanna's "Disturbia" for us all! It fits in nicely for my Halloween Special! This was possibly the turning point that put me off Rihanna. I didn't like the direction she was going down with this song and her subsequent songs never matched up to the love I had and still have for "Don't Stop The Music". Besides this entire music video freaked me out back in 2008. Rihanna is pretty much possessed in this "Disturbia" music video. Freakish dancing, disturbing themes and it still chilling to this day.
Rihanna, real name Robyn Fenty, is a worldwide global superstar. Everyone practically knows who she is and at least one of her songs. She's iconic and has really built a name for herself. She's at a point in her career, much like Beyoncé, where she can create the music she wants to and it'll still be a hit, regardless of whether it's likeable or not. She's worked her way up to this level and she isn't coming down from it whatsoever. This song was released on a reissue of her 'Good Girl Gone Bad' album, titled 'Reloaded'. The song hit number three in the UK but became another number one hit single in the US for Rihanna. It was written by Brian Kennedy, Chris Brown, Robert Allen, and Andre Merritt.
Directed by Anthony Mandler and Rihanna, the music video is extremely haunting, it freaks me out. It makes me think Rihanna is possessed by something.
The whole concept is intriguing with various scenes depicting the same idea. If anything, it really proves Rihanna's acting ability, because she pulls this off perfectly.
There are many scenes that will take me ages to comment on, although there is something freaky about the blonde wig and the contact lenses she is wearing when she is behind the bars. I also love the chamber where she's tied up via handcuffs; the way she struggles to get out is full of panic.
The spider scene is spine-chilling, I don't like spiders all that much, but those are tarantulas. I don't know how Rihanna kept her cool. Well, she was possessed.
The dance scene is flawless; great, relatable choreography that is totally on point throughout. The only problem I had was that not enough of the dance sequence was shown.
This music video is jam-packed full of everything. It's so disturbing, it works effortlessly and as much as it freaks me out and as much as I don't like it, the music video is relatable, brilliant and total perfection.
Going down a more country house music route, Calvin Harris' "My Way" is being reviewed as this week's Chart Mondays. He is throwing quite the spanner in my Halloween Special unless you supposed the love interest in this music video is a ghost, a pixelated one at best... Let's run with that, although, she is a robot. The song has been in the UK top 10 for a while, but the video has only just been released. With Little Mix's "Shout Out To My Ex" happily sitting on top, I'm reviewing this music video instead. Calvin Harris has stated that this song isn't about Taylor Swift, the song is about an ex-girlfriend being in his way. The accompanying music video for "My Way" shows her appearing and disappearing in a set of pixels, is she even real?
Calvin Harris, real name Adam Wiles, is the Scottish DJ who has won numerous awards and has worked with some of the biggest stars. He has a string of hits that just don't stop coming. He's definitely the one to watch around the world, because he is one of the hottest DJ's going at the moment, and I don't just mean his looks, even though he is pretty damn fine (especially considering what he used to look like when he released his debut single "Acceptable In The 80s"). This song was written by Calvin Harris.
The music video was directed by Emil Nava, who has directed a lot of Calvin Harris' music videos. The love interest is played by actress Emanuela Postacchini.
There is a kind of massive narrative behind this which is hard to follow. At first, I didn't get this video one bit, but I'm slowly understanding it, from my own perspective. This concept of the video may not be the intentional theory behind the narrative from the director or Calvin Harris.
We start off in a futuristic world, where there is a tall building standing in a desolate destroyed Earth. The camera pans into a window where we see a person with a Virtual Reality helmet on.
In an extremely clever cut, we see Calvin Harris on the steps of a country home. Into the past we go. We watch as Calvin Harris sings about the one thing being in his way, it's clearly his robotic love interest, but is she even there? The one complete stable throughout is Calvin Harris himself, everything else becomes a pixelated mess.
As the story continues, we watch her appear everywhere, taking control, destroying things. Almost as if it's a virus amongst his computer system; definitely an atrocity for any producer in the world.
The video ends with no one in the futuristic building; instead, there's a stand-alone computer from the 90s, maybe earlier, and there's one in each window-room of the building. Has this futuristic person become a pixelated specimen to run away with this person who isn't even real? Or does this video just not make sense?
What I do know, is that there is an awesome dance break during the barn house scene, where the choreography is nailed completely. With laser lights and an upbeat melody, you really can't go wrong.
This video is confusing, it gets even weirder the more you watch it. The pixels mess with your brain, disengaging the audience, which is the point of the video. Amazingly futuristically brilliant. Yet, I still can't quite make sense of this.
To be totally honest, I wasn't aware of this song until the Glee Cast covered it in a mash-up with Michael Jackson's "Thriller". Now it's become a global sensation and definitely a song to feature on all Halloween playlists. It totally deserves to be a part of my Halloween Special. This haunting song didn't do so well on the charts, but it is still an iconic haunting track. The Yeah Yeah Yeahs perform "Heads Will Roll" in front of a small audience, as a dancing werewolf finds its way on to the stage who later rips into everyone, rolling heads everywhere.
The Yeah Yeah Yeahs are a three-piece American indie band consisting of Karen Orzolek, Nick Zinner and Brian Chase. They have had moderate success in the UK, both single wise and album wise. They are currently on a hiatus. This is probably their most known song, regardless of it only reaching number 89 on the UK Chart, it managed to place on other charts around the world too. Although, their highest charting single was in 2003 with "Date With The Night". This song was written by Brian Chase, Karen Orzolek and Nick Zinner.
Directed by Richard Ayoade, the music video uses comedic horror which allows for a humorous scary music video.
I love that they have used red glitter and confetti as blood, and the conclusion of Karen O continually singing whilst being decapitated is epically original.
The story is easy enough to follow, and what seems to be a performance piece easily turns into a narrative which is such a simplistic engaging move.
We watch the band perform, they're energetic and enthralling, but then a dancer appears. He struts towards the stage when we realise he's actually a werewolf. It isn't long until he becomes blood hungry and chases the audience, ripping them apart as red confetti pours out of the bodies. The ending sees the band murdered in red glitter, but Karen O continues singing.
How can anyone not love this music video? It's pure genius, even if it is a little too simplistic for my liking. More development of the story is needed, as well as making it a little more relatable to the music video. Apart from those slight things, it works magically.
A bit of cheese on my blog, once again, but this is one of my all-time classic Halloween songs. I used to listen to this song all the time, and it always reminds me of Halloween. I actually remember the music video being on the music channels, at the time, which really goes to show how much of an impact it really was. Coinciding with the Scooby-Doo theatrical release, allSTARS*'s van breaks down and they are lost in the woods. "Things That Go Bump In The Dark" are best left alone.
allSTARS* were a five-piece pop group consisting of Sam Bloom, Thaila Zucchi, Ashley Taylor Dawson, Rebecca Hunter, and Sandi Lee Hughes. The name came from their first initials of their names, grouped together to make "STARS". They had four top 20 singles and one album, which failed to hit the UK's top 40 albums chart. Their low-charting positions ended up with the band parting ways with the label and subsequently each other. They were mostly known for their TV show on CITV called "STARStreet*". Rumour has it that a reunion is happening, although it's only rumours. Since the band; Ashley Taylor Dawson returned to play his character Darren Osbourne in Hollyoaks. Thaila Zucchi has had an all-right career in TV. Rebecca Hunter and Sandi Lee Hughes have had TV stints and children. Sam Bloom is a co-founder of 'Inspiring Interns'. The song is actually quite known, and is a must, on most Halloween playlists, although not many people actually know that it's sung by allSTARS*, especially with the original not being on iTunes.
The song appeared on the Scooby-Doo theatrical film soundtrack. The music video doesn't have any clips from the movie, although does feature a camper-van which is suggestive of the Mystery Machine.
The group members all disappear and get lost in the woods. That is the basic storyline and it isn't quite developed the way we want it.
Throughout the cheesy dance steps and the extremely bad lighting, it's intricate. Feeling quite similar to Hear'Say, allSTARS* rock the scary vibes thanks to the haunting visual. However, the choreography isn't anything we'd want to see again.
It's quite shocking that this group was aimed at kids and yet pelvic thrusts are throughout the video suggesting the song is quite sexual. There are certainly other "Things That Go Bump In The Night". Too suggestive for my liking in a cheesy pop video and group.
The video fails to wrap up the storyline. What happened to them? Regardless, the video is quite freaky and definitely a little scary. Perfect for Halloween!
This is for sure one of Ashlee Simpson's most underrated songs, most people don't even know about it. It's definitely one of my favourite Halloween songs, probably next to the other Halloween songs I choose for my Halloween Special! This is freakishly good, the song is so personal and although may come off a bit bland on first listen, it becomes an emotional party banger, on second listen, that will be perfect for all those spooky playlists out there! Trust me, this song is fire for any Halloween themed party. Raw and emotional, the song and the video work well together, Ashlee Simpson is in pain because of a guy who has a "Bat For a Heart".
Ashlee Simpson is probably best known as the sister of Jessica Simpson, yet she has established a career for herself both in the music industry and in the acting world. She has more a rock-edge to her tone, that definitely fuelled her chart success in the 00's. She is apparently working on a new album with her husband. Since this single was released back in 2012, I doubt it will be included in the said album. This single was apparently written by Linda Perry & Ashlee Simpson.
The music video is incredibly basic from start to finish. A consistent theme throughout as Ashlee Simpson pours her emotions out in a chaotic way.
Filmed totally in black and white, which definitely gives this an eerie feel, the video is quite quirky, to say the least. Ashlee Simpson has unlocked some sort of possessive beast from within, possibly a bat-transforming vampire.
At times we see her in a vocal booth or displaying dysfunctional dance moves, which doesn't fit singularly, however, would work fluidly with a full-set choreography, but then again something clean and perfect wouldn't work.
As a whole piece, it's quite unnerving yet interesting. Definitely haunting and perfect for my Halloween Special. On the other hand, I feel it doesn't quite relate to the song, and by itself, it's nothing special.
This was the only thing I can find for New Release this week, which is slightly disappointing, especially since I'm starting my Halloween Special this week, and although aliens can sort of be considered as a supernatural scary monster, I'm not quite sure it actually counts. Instead, I'm going to type up two reviews today so that I can fully flesh out my Halloween Special. Pretty Sister collaborates with Dragonette and Tobtok creating a catchy song. The music video definitely has "Galactic Appeal" as we watch an alien party and live it large with other people.
This is a major DJ collaboration! Pretty Sister is a solo project from Zak Waters who has previously released albums under his real name as well as EPs and singles. He has made quite the name for himself online, although before then he released two EPs with his pop/rock band Blueskyreality, who later disbanded. For now, he's Pretty Sister, who is definitely making electronic waves in the music industry. Dragonette are a well known electronic music trio band consisting of Martina Sorbara, Dan Kurtz and Joel Stouffer. They hit international fame on the collaborative hit "Hello" with Martin Solveig, but didn't quite keep a hold of the fame, and so follow-up singles didn't quite hit the mark. Regardless, they are still known throughout the world, although people may not quite know why at first. Tobtok is a Swedish DJ, real name Tobias Karlsson. He has remixed some of the biggest hits, as well as many unknowns. He previously remixed Zak Waters' song "Out Of My Head", which probably ignited this collaboration.
Directed by Anthony Chirco, the music video starts off extremely cheesy, totally set in the past and in black and white. But it soon turns to colour and all old theme vanishes as we watch an alien transform into a human. Possibly referencing the Roswell alien crash landing?
The alien walks along the road, where she's picked up by two strangers in a car. These two are Martina Sorbara, from Dragonette, and Zak Waters (well, Pretty Sister); who take her to their house/pool party.
This alien doesn't quite understand what is going on until Zak Waters comes up behind her and pushes her into the pool. That's when the party truly starts and this alien learns to have some fun and lets loose.
Martina Sorbara and Zak Waters really know how to host a party, where was my invite guys? Their hypnotic voices work well together, although their harmonies are slightly too soft for my liking, but their voices compliment each other's well. The ending shows the alien flipping through a book by the pool.
This is a great narrative with a side performance piece. Energetic and relatable, although the story isn't quite fleshed out fully. This alien doesn't quite have galactic appeal, she needed to be more quirky and different, rather than trying to blend in. But totally fun and definitely upbeat.
It's Thursday, so it's revisit time, and I'm so happy to feature The Pretty Reckless on my blog again this week, after reviewing "Take Me Down" from their new album which I reviewed for CelebMix. This was the song that got me onto The Pretty Reckless in the first place, and I always watched this video when it came on the music channels, although I don't see why I did. The Pretty Reckless dine at the head table of the wedding of the frontwoman Taylor Momsen, but there's no groom. It's an imitation of The Last Supper, She climbs on the table and rolls around, crawls, stands and crawls underneath as she sings "Miss Nothing".
The Pretty Reckless consist of four members who are Taylor Momsen, Jamie Perkins, Ben Phillips and Mark Damon. Their first album, which this was their second single from, was big in the UK, and their subsequent albums followed suit. At the time rock music was big here in the UK, and it will always be a part of our 00's era. Nowadays, rock music is less mainstream. It manages to rack up on the albums chart, but as for the singles chart, rock music barely scrapes in. This is why their new singles haven't charted well, but their albums have done fantastically. This song was written by Taylor Momsen, Ben Phillips and Kato Khandwala.
Directed by Meiert Avis, who has directed many videos, including the new one from The Pretty Reckless "Take Me Down". This video is a static narrative piece; it's a scene right out of a story, twisted and pulled apart and then given a whole new visual.
The whole thing is a new visual of The Last Supper. Taylor Momsen pulls off her veil and climbs on to the table. There is a close up of her pouring water for the other guests, which never made sense to me, but now I know it's an imitation of The Last Supper, it makes perfect sense.
She does various other things, messing the whole scene up, walking on the table, throwing food, smashing a bottle off a guy's head. She literally causes chaos but with no one to react to it it's unsettling.
The final scene shows her sprawled on the table, still looking sexy regardless of everything, whilst various so-called famous people come in to stand around. Of these people, Jimi Hendrix, Charlie Chaplin and John Lennon can be seen.
Overall, as a reworked version of The Last Supper, it works magically. Yet it doesn't quite go with the lyrics of the song. On the other hand, Taylor Momsen totally rocks this! The rest of the band play an active part in the video as the guests.
