ATRL's Next TOP MEMBER Cycle 7 | EP2: The Entries Pt.1
ATRL's Next topmember Cycle 7
EPISODE 2: MUSIC TASTE WHAT TO DO WITH THE ENTRIES: I want each of you to PM me who you think had the best entry and the worst entry. You cannot say yourself!
I would like the two names into me by
Friday April 6, 2012
@ 9 PM US Central Time
THE ENTRIES
Quote:
Originally posted by Forget the Loved
5. "Primadonna" - Marina & the Diamonds. With semi-cheesy lyrics, her vocals are what keep me up here. The beat in the final chorus is my style, but I don't think it fits Marina. I normally loathe Dr. Luke productions, but I guess he and Cirkut (along with Diplo) do very well together.
4.. "Homewrecker" - Marina & the Diamonds. Though the verses are a bit weird with her almost-attempt at rap-talking, I still love the song. The techno stomper chorus comes out of nowhere, and per the usual with Marina, she slays me with her vocals. Such a talented artist. I love her. However, she needs to step BACK from the pop and go back to her alternative sound.
3. "Skeletons" - Yeah Yeah Yeahs. An almost entrancing song. Her voice is so pretty. The production is so good. One of my favorite groups, honestly.
2. . "Ray of Light" - Madonna. Just the (second) best thing I've ever heard in my entire life. May be deemed "overrated" by people, but regardless, I still love it. Perfect production. Lyrics are creative. Voice is amazing.
1. "Dancing Queen" - ABBA. Just THE best thing I've ever heard in my life. My mother listened to this when I was a baby, because she has always loved it since she heard it, she says. Stays with me ever since I managed to hear and perfectly remember it in full, when I was about 8. I remember my mom telling me I used to attempt to hum the melody when I wanted her to play it when I was just getting used to learning & knowing how to talk. Sort of corny that it comes from me hearing it as very little, but it still remains with me.
I guess I tried it, being honest in it all.
Quote:
Originally posted by DvnR
5. roman holiday - nicki minaj
You suck at life? You don't want a round three, you already suffered twice? Yes, Roman is perfectly channeled in the opening to Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded. The song from start to end is relentless, aggressive, and overall just unapologetic. She doesn't let her guard down in the song, and just lets it all out. It's not "inspiring" like the other songs in my top 5, but it is one thing: a really cool song that speaks volumes on what people should sometimes be like. We could all use a little bit of Roman in us. He is a VICIOUS mother****er. Doesn't take people's ****. This song epitomizes that.
4. too close - alex clare
This song quickly has become one of my favorites of 2012 due to the fact it's so original and awesome. I had only heard this kind of song in remixes of people like Adele, and even then it didn't match this caliber of flawlessness. Diplo does everything right in terms of production and Alex Clare's vocals fits it perfectly. The verses, the chorus.. sonically this is probably my favorite song of the whole year and will likely stay like that. I hope more artists arise like this, cause damn. It's just so original and new to me that I feel that if this song smashes in the US, he could be the trendsetter of soulstep (dubstep and soul). After all, 2012 has shown that any song can smash.
3. turn up the music remix (feat. rihanna) - chris brown
This song really has various pieces of significance to meet. First of all, the original is amazing in itself. It's fresh, it's fun, and has very interesting futuristic feel, almost ahead of its time. Then, Rihanna jumped on the track and just made it, in my opinion, two times better. Their chemistry in this song is perfect. I heard the remix on pop radio just today, and I LOVED it. It was a bold collaboration and it worked. Risks were meant to be taken.
2. somebody that i used to know (feat. kimbra) - gotye
Gotye really took the world by storm with this song, country-by-country dominating with this song. It's not cause of the sex it sells or the controversy, but the power of the song, the ability to relate to its theme, the vocals... it's all just too amazing to really resist. It's catchy, yet genuine and raw. It all flows so well and doesn't stay completely restrained in the typical structure of songs. I think the best thing about this song is that it wasn't striving to be anything it wasn't, which made it practically perfect.
1. we are young (feat. janelle monae) - fun.
It's hard not to love this song. Everything about it is just magnificent. The huge chorus, the drums guiding the whole song through... I'm beyond happy that it smashed. This song to meet completely sums up how 2012 has been for me. While I heard it in December of '11 when Glee covered it, I never really got into it till a couple weeks before the Super Bowl, when it REALLY blew up. Anyways, this song really connects to me because this year, even just three months in, I've gone through a lot of new things due to the feeling that, quoting the great drake, that "you only live once." I've as of recently decided that when I look back, I wanna have something to remember. The song just says, "Alright, time to live it up." And live it up I shall.
Quote:
Originally posted by TheGeoKing
#5 Regina Spektor - All The Rowboats
Gorgeous. The lyrics are just so unique and creative, I love how she refers to paintings or art in a museum as being trapped always seeking to get away.
I have played piano for over 13 years of my life and I really appreciate the piano solo as well as the constant use of the instrument throughout the whole song. Beautiful.
#4 Lana Del Rey - Born to Die
I know that some of the judges reading this don't like Lana Del Rey, but this song just delivers everything to me. Beautiful vocals, nice lyrics, and it makes me feel alive.
I also love the message "We were Born to Die" because to me I always used to feel this way about myself. I always used to feel so meaningless and insignificant.
#3 M83 - Intro
"We didn't need a story, we didn't need a real world
We just had to keep walking
And we became the stories, we became the places
We were the lights, the deserts, the faraway worlds
We were you before you even existed"
This made me breakdown in tears honestly.
The pulsating beat, the surreal production, the glorious build-up throughout the entire song. I haven't heard a song like this one, that could really make me stop and just truly listen in amazement at its sheer brilliance in a long time.
#2 Fun. - Some Nights
The beat of this track is just plain beautiful. The lyrics are gold, and it always puts me in a great mood.
"Ten years of this, I'm not sure if anybody understands"
I don't know what the writers intended this line to mean, but that is the beauty of song lyrics. These particular lyrics encapsulate my whole damn life of being a shy person and no ever understanding how I felt and they just speak to my soul.
The ending of this song gives me a breakdown like almost nothing I have ever experienced before. The chanting is just everything. To me this song is so relatable because I have always felt so lost in my life. I feel as though I never want to let go of the desire to keep living every day.
I'm done with my existence tonight. See you all later.
Quote:
Originally posted by givemethatpop
This is my Top 5 of 2012, so far.
05. Best Friends, Right?, an Amy Winehouse song from her posthumous album Lioness (2012)
This song has Amy's essence all over it, and I love it. She goes back to an old-school sound while describes a love-hate relationship with somebody in an ironical, sarcastic way like only she can do. The opening of the song is pure epicness: ''I can't wait to get away from you, unsurprisingly you hate me too. We only communicate when we need to fight, but we are best friends, right?''. Her voice is on track here and it sounds like the bitchy side of Amy we all love. The instrumental is, surprisingly, divine - I was expecting something more ''raw'', being almost a demo. That's why the production is simple but, like Confucius said, sometimes ''less is more''.
Listen here -> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAocWr1NxjY
04. Love Spent, a Madonna song from her album MDNA (2012)
It was a hard decision to choose between Gang Bang and this song. From the perspective of songs being dedicated to her ex-husband, I find the first one very funny and crazy, but this one more interesting and revealing. First of all, it starts with a ****ing banjo! I love it. Lyrically, this song is written in an autobiographical way, describing Madonna's point of view about her relationship with Guy Ritchie. The lyrics are so clever (''Frankly, if my name was Benjamin we wouldn’t be in the mess we’re in''), and critical too. She's saying her ex-husband was a $-obsessed, so ambitious he would even leave her apart. The ''would you have married me if I were poor?'' line gets me everytime. Amazing.
Listen here -> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nX4FIBqA60
03. Call Me Maybe, a Carly Rae Jepsen song from her EP Curiosity (2012)
This is one of the most perfect pop songs released this 2012. Funny, carefree, easygoing and catchy, very catchy. I like how in a musical scene where everything tends to be now complicated and elaborated, this unknown (worldwide) girl comes to slay with a simple song with a happy and refreshing melody. Call Me Maybe has something that turns me cheerful and motivate me to enjoy my life. Ah! And hopefully the fact is produced by a local, discreet producer can inspire some pop acts to look for new producers and make the pop scene more varied.
Listen here -> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWNaR-rxAic&ob=av3e
02. Off To The Races, a Lana del Rey song from her album Born To Die (2012)
This song leaves me speechless, exhausted, worked up. It's such a ****ing experience to listen to it. Her voice here is so hypnotic and versatile, changing like a roller coaster through the song. And the lyrics are just brilliant. Nostalgic and devoted to her man. She's in love with a wrong one, but she can't help it. ''My man is a thief, and I'm gonna stay and pray with him till the end. But I trust in the decision of the Lord to watch over us, take him when he may, if he may''. I feel like Lana strips her feelings in this song and you can totally see her naked when the song ends at 05:00.
Listen here -> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtiiqtijjXQ
01. Somebody That I Used To Know, a Gotye ft. Kimbra song from his album Making Mirrors (2011)
Even though this is a 2011 song, it didn't reach international success until 2012. This track is my well-deserved #1 because of three basic aspects that define its perfection. First of all, the combination of voice and sound is flawless: the song keeps you going up and down as Gotye's voice changes from a soft one to a raw, imploring one. The second aspect is the lyrics. They're amazingly well-written so everyone can relate to them. The ''I don't wanna live that way, reading into every word you say'' kills me everytime because it's so ****ing true and many of us have lived something similar. And the third...KIMBRA. This girl is so gorgeous, and her voice is so captivating. I hope she can have a great, successful career in the future.
This is definitely one of those songs you may not get at the first listen, but they're definitely destined to be one of those few timeless tracks. The brilliance of the instrumental and the intriguing and intimate lyrics and voice will put this song on the top of many 'Best of' this year.
Listen here -> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UVNT4wvIGY
Quote:
Originally posted by TOASTY
These are in NO particular order
Oh Yeah? - Chris Brown - This song is my jam and I only heard it for the first time like 3 days ago (it leaked then). I know Chris Brown is kinda a dick of a human being with what he did and all, but I honestly don't care simply because I don't know any of these people personally. I will continue to love MUSIC, even if that means I don't approve of the respective singer's action(s). The chorus is just oh yeah like 50 times over but the beat is what keeps me coming back for more...drummer boy 4 life
Girl Gone Wild - Madonna - Ok, we get it Madge is tired and she isn't "cool" to listen to anymore, but that won't stop me from blasting this song in my car with the windows down and completely queening out (I actually did that this afternoon ). The song may be a bit "generic", but since when does generic = bad? The song is dope and the prayer in the beginning makes it even better. The chorus is hot and I didn't get into this track until like last week. I watched a lot of choreo for the song and it finally just got me into the song. It's also flawless for running, as I've just found out...makes you wanna keep moving and pushing through
**** Up The Fun - Azealia Banks - I don't like how this girl is presenting herself (on twitter and such), but as I've said with Chris Brown, I don't know these people personally and I'm here for the music solely. This beat is DOPE and it will have me tutting my pasty white ass all through the summer and learning to do some tribal nonsense that will probably make me look an absolute mess in public but that's what I was put on this planet for and I will NOT APOLOGIZE. Azzy goes HARD on this track and you can feel her intensity in the way she lays down the verses...that with the intensity of the beat just makes you lose it altogether.
J Cole - Breakdown- This song was put out in 2011, but I've been whoring it out since and it's still in my top 5 for 2012 (hasn't gotten even remotely "old" in my eyes). The delivery and lyrical content are tight, and the emotion behind the verses makes me feel for him. The song also interpolates one of my all time favorite Mariah songs (and 90's songs, for that matter), and the instrumental complements the lyrics fantastically.
Birthday Cake (remix) - rih - I went with this one because of the extreme hype behind it and the fact that my bitch ass waited AND WAITED for this one. The bass is fat and it makes me wanna pop my nonexistant ***** to the next area code. It's not Rih's best song obviously, but you wanted 2012 so yeah...I personally would've preferred a solo rih song or maybe one with my boi jay jay (cole) but whatever CB is fine too. Overall I'd call the song a disappointment given the fact that the stans had to wait a fat minute for it (also the remix doesn't really give us anything "new"), but the fact that we finally have a 4 minute version of bday cake is enough for me to put it in my top 5.
OH and a bonus
Toastiness - TOASTY - This bitch killed it on the bridge...and I've also learned through him that wheat and rye are never fickle. This harlot can be the queen of my snack and brunch anyday. The vulgarity in the lyrics may turn a few people off, but the idea of licking one's marjarine and placing pb & j over his resistance is kinda enticing to say the least
I'm sure there will be some members linking a song with a personal experience for the year, which is admirable/great for them. I, however, would be lying if I were to put something like "this song got me through a depression" or "this song gave me confidence in a trying time." Truth be told, these songs listed make me happy and in high spirits (even the more gloomy breakdown ...but just because I love Cole's flow). I personally feel as though songs and their lyrics shouldn't always be taken @ face value...meaning a song like "Bday Cake" can be just as meaningful as "We Belong Together" given the situation. At the end of the day, it's about the emotion that the track evokes within, and for me I prefer a track that makes me exhilarated
Basically this is it...this was actually kinda hard for me. I tend to listen to mostly 90's R&B but i'll really listen to any/everything in terms of genres. I don't believe that my taste is the broadest (i mean just look @ my sig not too diverse now is it?), but I don't think you need to have a diverse taste in music to be a "top member" or even in general. Just because I don't use a lot of the artists on atrl or a lot of my friends' music doesn't mean I'm not down for trying new things and listening to new genres that are outside my "comfort zone." I would say my taste in music reflects my personality only in that it shows my fun/wacky side. I love to dance and I love to go crazyyyy albeit I look a damn mess and people probs judge like no others. But life's too short and I'm too tall for that ****ery. Thanks for reading my top-5-turned novella
Quote:
Originally posted by Jwoww310
This isn't my TOP 5 of my Favorite song of all time, but it is the TOP 5 of the songs that have been the soundtrack of my life recently (Going from a brokenHearted to find the love).
I know english is the offiicial language here, but I'm from Latino America and particularly i think there are beautiful and wonderful songs in spanish, full of sense and feelings for that reason one out my 5 it's in spanish.
5
Princess Of China - Coldplay (Feat. Rihanna)
I've never imagined a collaboration bewteen this two, but when i knew it i was anxious for listening the final results, and i have to say it Riri was the perfect match for this. The song makes me feel in heaven and it's not telling a happy story but it's like yeah we're done and it sucks but life go on.
4
Heart Vacancy - The Wanted
Love doesn't hurt what it hurts is the stupid people that doesn't know how to love.
But as natural defense mechanism when we get hurt we build walls and start hidding our heart as a way to keep the pain away. I did it.
But i met someone that told me the same words that everybody knows and have heard at once, but what it made me fell in love was the fact that he showed me that Gay guys aren't all the same. I had a heart vacancy, but he filled it in. Take a risk, if you were hurt don't feel afraid to love again, if you don't have love you will have lost everything.
3
Fuiste Tu (It was you) - Ricardo Arjona & Gaby Moreno
"Love the spines or do not accept roses"
This song shows how the love can let us blinded, accepting everything without making questions and letting our heart in risk and when we notice that the other person is not what we though we start to regret and you feel bad for it, but in the end you'll think about it and you'll will say: There's only one guilty, it was you.
2
We Found Love - Rihanna (Feat. Calvin Harris)
I have to admit it, i hated it in the fisrt listen but in time the song grew on me and I was able to understand the real meaning of it. The beat its amazing and i danced it too much in the disco. And was in the Disco where i found the love and actually I'm happy and proud to say it. It's something inexplicable, but i feel a fire inside of me when i listen it.
1
Somebody That I used To Know - Gotye (Feat. Kimbra)
Clearly an amazing song, really addictive and you can easily make a conection with it. It reminds me how ironic is that two people that used to love each other become into strangers. And it taught us that if you don't feel confortable with someone and you don't feel love: Why go ahead?
ATRL's Next TOP MEMBER Cycle 7 | EP2: The Entries Pt.2
ATRL's Next topmember Cycle 7
EPISODE 2: MUSIC TASTE WHAT TO DO WITH THE ENTRIES: I want each of you to PM me who you think had the best entry and the worst entry. You cannot say yourself!
I would like the two names into me by
Friday April 6, 2012
@ 9 PM US Central Time
THE ENTRIES
Quote:
Originally posted by Vulps
5. Brandon Flowers - The Clock Was Tickin'
Like his other fans, it didn’t take more than one listen of Brandon’s solo CD to realize how disappointing it was. I picked out the three strongest tracks – 'Crossfire', 'Only the Young' and 'Swallow It' and for the most part ignored the rest of the album.
Over the next year and a half I repeatedly tried to get into the other tracks, but they all just faded in and out of each other - until recently when this track suddenly just seemed to blare out against the rest. So much about it reminded me of 'Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town' (which, coincidentally, The Killers covered a while back). The theme, the sound, the emotion.
I love the contrast of the arrangement and the lyrics. I'm always drawn to songs like that because it throws the listener off a bit. Anyway, it tells a brilliant story, and is a great track.
*note - there wasn't a studio version of this track available on Youtube, but this live version is close enough.
4. Neon Hitch - **** U Betta
You know how some people always harp about how music is music and no one artist is necessarily superior to another? I’m one of those people. I have my hypocritical moments, but hey, whatever floats your boat, right?
Of course, that doesn’t mean I can’t identify what most people would class as trash. And I must admit, I delight in listening to trash. Give me a song that the majority of the public would rather banish off the face of this planet and chances are that I’ll be whoring it out all week. Case in point, '**** U Betta'.
I mean god, where do I even start? Scandal compressed into 3 minutes. The lyrics, the graveyard, the shameless sex-selling. And I love it all. I don’t even care about the verses and her chipmunk voice.
Now, I’m a proud pop junkie, and I know there’s far more to pop than cheap gimmicks and desperate ploys. But you can’t deny that the two play a noticeable part in it as well. And this single just ****ing embraces it all and I love it for that.
3. Lesley Gore - It's My Party
Oh god. This song. I’ve always liked it, and I grew up listening to music like this. But last month I rediscovered this song in a BIG way. I kinda put aside the music my parents introduced me to for a while after I left for university because I didn't have most of these gems on my laptop. But I had a sudden urge to hear this song again and after that I just had it on repeat for ages.
It’s short and sweet. Like with 'The Clock Was Tickin'', the lyrics and the arrangement don't really match. But I enjoy how it makes light of what I suppose could seem to be a rather unfortunate situation. She was probably just being over dramatic anyway.
2. Asher Roth - Dope ****
Deceiving title, non?
This track is why it’s so ridiculously hard to dislike Asher. He’s honestly just a regular guy who’s too lazy to shave and can’t be assed cutting his hair. But he’s still a fascinating, intelligent artist. He knows what music he wants to make. He also knows that that music isn’t going to sell very well. And that his biggest hit was “I Love College” . With this track, he finds a way to have it all. I don’t think I need to explain it further, the lyrics will do that for me. But yeah, basically, this track is brilliant simply because it’s so Asher. And the song’s great too ofc.
1. Frankmusik as 'Vincent Did It' - So You're Alive
One of those songs where the instrumental says more than the lyrics. A lot of the song is open to interpretation. It’s a question posed to the listener. And Vincent’s vocals on this just take me to another place. You just wanna lie down with your eyes shut and listen to this until you fall asleep. I don't know what more to say about it. I think you either connect with this song and get it or don't and wonder what all the fuss is about. I hope it's the former with all of y'all.
Quote:
Originally posted by Ammer
1. Dark Paradise - Lana Del Ray
In November of last year I decided to apply for the PhD program at my university. I had felt that my trajectory for registering as a clinical and counselling psychologist was going to become a reality, and all I needed to do was apply and start my final degree. Everything seemed so perfect. My application was extremely competitive, I had a professor whom I developed a great connection with, and applied thinking I was secured a spot. Granted, I had moments where I was unsure but overall felt I be accepted.
February 15th, 2012.
The day of judgment was what they called it, and judgment it was. It was the day where all the professors would gather and decide who among the graduate students would move on to the PhD. I was a bundle of nerves the entire day, and had a breakdown in my office simply from anticipating the results. I had class that evening with the professor I applied with so I knew I would find out the answer by tonight.
5:30PM
My class with the professor had started, and she had not made any indication as to whether or not I was accepted. I just sat there, the entire class, trying to pick up subtle cues she may have giving me, but I couldn't read her. At the end of class, I walked up to her and asked her if I could speak with her. She replied to meet her at her office. I hastily left.
8:30PM
I walked into her office, and watched as she closed the door. She walked to her desk and turned to face me, "As you know, this year we had a higher than average number of applicants and we accepted only 5 into the doctoral program. Unfortunately you were not one of them,"
"I don't want to wake up from this tonight"
I stood there, frozen. I couldn't feel anything, I was numb. I felt as if I slowly dying while someone watched, holding the very thing that could save my life but refused to help.
"That's OK, I had a feeling. I really appreciate the opportunity. I look forward to applying next year,"
"There is no relief, I see you in my sleep"
She apologized several times, "I'm sorry. You're so young, you're 23. Rarely does anyone start their PhD so early. You'll be fine,". I nodded, smiled, and then walked out realizing for the first time in my life, I was not going to go to class in September. Realizing for the first time that I was a failure.
"Your soul is haunting me and telling me that everything is fine, but I wish I was dead,"
That evening, I played "Dark Paradise" repeatedly until I couldn't bare it any longer. The song is about a past lover, but for me, the song was about the harsh, dark reality of my situation. Ever since I was a young boy, I expected myself to go onto the PhD. It was just something that was supposed to happen.
Lana's song truly encapsulated what I was and still am (to an extent) feeling. The lover was my PhD dreams, and I continued to have dreams where I was accepted into the program. Every time I closed my eyes, I felt lost, afraid, but I also felt I could imagine a world where I was in the PhD program. Where the night went differently and I would have listened to "Walking on the Sunshine" instead. But no, every time I closed my eyes I faced the existential crisis of my current life while simultaneously trying to imagine a world where I was accepted into the PhD. In short, I was experiencing my very own "Dark Paradise" that night, and I hope next year on February 15th, "Dark Paradise" will be far from what I'll be listening to.
2. Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) - Kelly Clarkson
As obvious as this entry may be, the song itself took a new form for me this year. As I'm in Counselling Psychology, our practicum (internship) requires us to intern and practice therapy for the year on real clients. Starting to give therapy was one of the hardest things I'd ever have to do. I felt unprepared, scared, and above all, incompetent. How was I supposed to counsel someone about something as serious as rape? As abuse? As an addiction? I felt completely powerless, and worried for my incoming client's.
My clients began to pour in and I was faced with issues relating to suicidal thoughts, rape, incest, anxiety, trauma, and even homicidal thoughts. While there were clients with less intense issues (time management, social anxiety, etc...), I felt the more intense clients would overwhelm me. Every week at supervision I would be upset because I felt so incompetent conducting therapy -- a sentiment to which many of my fellow peers also felt. No one seemed confident.
As a month or two had passed, I began to listen to Kelly's "Stronger" album a bit more closely. The chorus "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger / Stand a little taller / Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone / What doesn't kill you makes a fighter / Footsteps even lighter / Doesn't mean I'm over cause you're gone" struck a chord with me. I felt that while I wasn't a psychologist who had 30 years of experience, it doesn't mean that I couldn't help my clients. I cared about my clients, and genuinely wanted them to move towards a more stable, healthy frame of mind. My program would not have selected me if they didn't have faith in my ability to become a good psychologist, and the fact I was one of 6 selected out of 500 applicants further proved to me that I could do this.
I'm not quite sure what happened after that, but I became more confident within my sessions. I felt that even if I made mistakes, it was a teaching clinic, and my clients understood that. The song itself didn't change my outlook on my therapeutic abilities on its own, it was in combination with feedback from my peers, supervisor, and my clients themselves. I saw clients making healthier decisions and changing their negative thought patterns. I even had one client say "I think you're an amazing therapist".
The song seemed to have been the final piece of the puzzle, the puzzle being my confidence. I felt I was more inclined to do better, and even now, I listen to "Stronger" whenever I feel like I've had a mediocre session or feel down on myself as a therapist. For the reasons I've stated above, I feel better. Not to sound too corny, but I feel stronger after listening to it and take solace in the fact that I did the very best I could that day and I could not ask for anything more.
3. Born To Die - Lana Del Ray
This is yet another Lana Del Ray entry, but the song "Born to Die" resonated with me in the new year.
I had started dating a guy in December, and could not be happier. He was affectionate, and sweet to me. However, as I started dating him, I found out that he had gone through many terrible relationships. From suicidal to abusive ex-boyfriends, he seemed quite hurt and often projected the "This is how I am. Take it or leave it" attitude. As we progressed with our relationship, he began displaying shallow and brutish attitudes ("Fat people are disgusting. They should be blamed for their state. I refuse to pay for their healthcare" / "My body is amazing, I was a model"). I was unimpressed to say the least, and indicated to him that seeing as we would never agree on some issues, we shouldn't bring them up. He agreed to this offer.
As we continued dating, he indicated he was leaving to a trip to California to apply to become a firefighter. I knew I wouldn't be able to see him for a few days, but was happy we'd see one another when he came back. The day he was leaving, I had taken him to the bus terminal and there appeared to be a mixup with his ticket. We were told to show an electronic copy of the ticket and as I had an iPhone, he logged into his e-mail and showed them the ticket. As he hit "Back", I saw a few e-mails and a bit of their messages. All of them were from other males, with flirty messages such as "Remember me? I'm the guy from Israel " or "Hey, it was nice meeting you the other day ". I thought they may be innocent e-mails, and refused to question him on it. He then asked me to look through his wallet to double check he had all his cards, and while I was looking through it I found a number.
"The road gets tough I don't know why"
I questioned him on the number, and he indicated it was from someone who he met at the bar he worked at (as a security guard). He said it didn't mean anything. I decided to let the matter go, and he left for California.
Fast forward to when he arrived and when we were together, cuddling on his bed. When telling me about his trip, he indicated he had gone to gay clubs and danced. I asked if he had danced with other men, and he replied yes. And then when asked if it was "dirty/grinding-esque dancing", he replied it was.
Instantly I felt a fury of emotions. I felt betrayed, hurt, humiliated, disgusted, and depressed all at once. We began to argue about him dancing with other men, and he rigorously defended his actions, indicating I was the type of person that would make men want to lie to me. These words pierced me, and hurt me immensely. I was the type of person that makes people want to lie me? I felt I was trying to respect myself, and explain how hurt I was whereas he was defensive, and hurtful towards me.
I left that evening, and broke up with him the next day. During this time, I began to listen to Lana Del Ray's album and "Born to Die" was the song I continued to play over and over again. I felt that as a couple, we weren't destined to last, and it upset me. The line "Don't make me sad// Don't make me cry" was the reality I was desperately trying to avoid. Over the past month and a half, I avoided feeling anything related to sadness. Because if I did, that would mean something was wrong with our relationship. And knowing his attitude, I felt if I brought anything up, he would leave. Unconsciously my mind knew this, and did everything to avoid this result. The lines hit hard as I listened to them as we broke up, and I knew I had chosen to remain in ignorance because I could ignore how terrible the relationship was, and could ignore how ultimately, our relationship was born to die.
4. "Face the Light" - Girlicious
While this song is fairly old, it truly resonated with me this year. After being rejected from the PhD program, I tried to ignore the harsh reality of having to work for an entire year before trying again. I was desperately hoping someone would send me an e-mail saying the decision was overturned and I was admitted into the program. Unfortunately as the days passed, this didn't happen. "Face the Light" began to play as I shuffled through my iPod and I just sat on the subway listening to it over and over again.
"I'm not ready to face the light // Cause I really want to dance all night"
It felt odd for me to resonate with a Girlicious song, but I did. I felt the mood of the song, and the tone it projected encapsulated what I was feeling. It ironically helped me take comfort in the fact that I needed more time to sit with my feelings, and process what was happening with me before moving on. I would move on, and I would apply for jobs, but first I wanted to take the time for myself to process what was happening. I wasn't ready to face the harsh reality, and I felt I was completely within my rights to be sad. I know that I would have to eventually face the light, but as of now, I wanted to keep "dancing" all night.
5. "A Thousand Years" - Christina Perri
The only positive song in my array of songs thus far, "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri hit me just as hard as her debut single "Jar of Hearts" did. In the new year, someone had shared a YouTube video about a guy proposing to his girlfriends using quirky images on cue cards. I watched the video, and felt extremely touched and saddened. Touched, because of how sweet the proposal and song were. Saddened because my relationship was over, and I was back to square one. I remember discussing this song with a friend of mine, and saying it was a nice sentiment but I feel that love at first sight or true love seem like such a foreign concept to me at the moment. I said it would probably be years until I experienced anything like that, and felt somewhat depressed at these prospects. Suffice to say, I was jaded from my previous break up (See Above).
A few weeks later, I had joined a dating website. I figured I have dated the "normal" way, and trying an online website might prove to be fruitful. Within a few days, I was matched with a guy who seemed incredibly sweet from his profile. I contacted him and we began exchanging e-mails. Finally, we set up a date, and nervously I went.
I walked into the restaurant, and sat at the nearest table. I received a text, "I'll see you in a few! Just on the streetcar!". My heart skipped a beat. I closely surveyed the door, and watched as random men walked in. I turned to look at my phone, and I heard the door open again. I saw as he walked in, partly covered in snow and smiling to the hostess.
"All of my doubts suddenly goes away somehow"
I watched as he walked towards me, and introduced himself. I was unaware of whether I should hug him or shake his hand, so I opted for the latter. Over the next few hours, we talked, laughed, and discussed a variety of different topics.
"Time stands still, and beauty and all she is"
We decided to take a walk, and while we were waiting for a crosswalk, he turned to me and kissed me.
"I have died every day waiting for you,"
I felt elated, scared, nervous, and a whole slew of other related emotions. I didn't understand what was happening. I've dated for years, been in many relationships, but something about him was different. He was different. He cared about what I had to say even when I said I was rambling ("You're not rambling at all! I love your stories"), he was sweet ("I think you're really thoughtful"), and seemed to genuinely enjoy my company ("I really hope we see each other again,").
After the date, I didn't seem to understand what was happening. Was I jumping the gun and assuming this guy was perfect? What was happening? Why was I acting stupid?
It wasn't until a month and a half later where we were lying in bed and I said, "I knew you were a great guy after our first date, and I knew we'd eventually become a couple," to which he replied,
"I knew the moment I saw you,".
Listening to Christina Perri to this day emotionally touches base with me in the most wonderful way. You're probably going to read this and think "Oh, he's so crazy for being so hung up on a guy he just met". But I don't think I am. I've been through terrible (and abusive) relationships, I've dated countless men, and I have never felt this way about anyone in my entire life. I feel like I've found the guy I'm meant to be with for the rest of my life, and isn't it a testament when thousands of couples report knowing after the first time they saw or went out with their partner?
Usually I like love songs, and listen to them without really having an emotional connection. But every time I listen to Christina Perri, I really feel the song. I not only understand her words, but I feel them. Every time she says "I have died every day waiting for you", I feel it. Every time she says "All of my doubts suddenly goes away somehow", I feel it. Every time she says, "One step closer", I feel it. Every time I listen to this song, I feel the words. And anyone who could make me truly feel her words is worth taking a chance on.
Quote:
Originally posted by Owl
1. Now, Now – “Colony”
When the snippets came out for the “Threads” album, “Colony” was the track that truly stood out to me. Once the album was finally released, I rushed to listen to the full version and I was shocked. The beautiful, haunting melody and the banjo had me hooked. Not only that, but what the song spoke to me was even more powerful. The ending of a settlement made between two and the fact that even though it’s over, they still share a part of each other. It’s just amazing and their album is available on iTunes.
Hands down, one of the best crafted songs of this year and both the song and the album were overshadowed by the release of MDNA and JB’s “Boyfriend” single. After hearing the live version, one would think that the studio version couldn’t compare, but I was left stunned when the album/studio version was released. A must listen. Her album is also available on iTunes.
Compared to her other songs, “Valentine” seems to take a more pop-y approach and I love it. It was released on Valentine’s Day as a free download. It talks of being in love with someone and believing that the feeling was mutual, but coming to the conclusion that the feeling obviously isn’t mutual. Unrequited feelings seem to be a huge issue in my love life, so it wasn’t surprising that I latched on to this song and it’s one of my favorite songs of this year. She doesn’t have anything out in the US, but she’ll be releasing an EP in May.
4. Niki & The Dove – “DJ, Ease My Mind”
This song was re-released in December of ’11, but I hadn’t become aware of it until about 2 months ago. It’s very tribal + enchanting. You just want to lose yourself in the song, when you listen to it. Buy “The Fox” single on iTunes.
It’s almost like you take a visit to an ethereal version of Ibiza, when you listen to this song. She’s taken a more dance-pop direction, but this song still has that ‘Kerli’ feel and it actually has a great message behind it. One of the best pop songs of 2012 and it will most likely go unnoticed by the general public. Purchase the single on iTunes.
ATRL's Next TOP MEMBER Cycle 7 | EP2: The Entries Pt.3
ATRL's Next topmember Cycle 7
EPISODE 2: MUSIC TASTE WHAT TO DO WITH THE ENTRIES: I want each of you to PM me who you think had the best entry and the worst entry. You cannot say yourself!
I would like the two names into me by
Friday April 6, 2012
@ 9 PM US Central Time
THE ENTRIES
Quote:
Originally posted by Quiqui4eva
"You don like dem disses, give ma ass some kisses"
It's like people can't take a joke these days. I mean, telling her to get raped for using a concept of another artist in their video? Anyway, I love how she twerks in the wolf cage used in Shakira's "She Wolf" video, and poses in a doll like gown with humongous eyes used in Gaga's "Bad Romance". What I love about Nicki is that she has a live and spunky personality that is presented in all her videos. And let's not forget the ass popping music. The beats are bangin', and her lyricism is very on point. I use!
"Bad boys ain't no good, Good boys ain't no fun"
When I first pop the Dr. Dre beats in my ears, this is the song I want to start with. I mean, it's an easy eargasm from the second it plays. The production on this track is top notch, and Drake blends in PERFECTLY with this catchy and slow R&B hit. She has been in the game for 20 years, and still knows how to serve the warmest tea. My favorite part of the video is when she starts to do ha thang with the background dancers. Her latest album is a true gem, and I cannot wait for a Mr. Wrong 2.0.
"I will be ya babay, promise not to let ya go"
This song is a future worldwide SMASH. I mean, who could not love this heartwarming, feel-good joint? From the blazing horns to the rythmic drums to Bey's stellar vocals, this track goes hard in every way possible. I would dedicate this song to my crush, because I want him to know I'll do anything for him until death comes in our direction. I can just imagine the pheonominal video to come: a huge festival in Brazil with tons of confetti, people, and some African-inspired choreography.
"Whine it, wiggle it, set da chop on it"
Loved this from the first listen. When it first starts, you'd think this would be a relaxing and slow track. But once the first chorus finishes, the EPIC booty clapping beat comes in our presence. Not only that, but the way he bust out in the Patois just gets me hype everytime. I just wish the video was better since the flight attendant ladies aren't shaking everything their mama gave them. For some peculiar reason, this song gives me confidence to just keep it real and ace every exam. I look forward to my Jamaican brother releasing more music like this
"Straight up out da hood, and still so misundastood"
Y'all really thought I was going to leave out this masterpiece? Bon-Slay-Slay is here and she isn't gonna back down anytime soon. Yes, she is played by a comedian who made this for a joke, but let's take time to appreciate. Her flow is actually quite sick, and I could see this smashing big time on Urban and Rythmic radio. If you like a video with money, weave pulling, and dancing with the legendary Beat Freaks (), this is the perfect one for you. Whether you like it or not, Qui is coming for you're faves and their wigs.
Quote:
Originally posted by Evun
1. Patrick Wolf - Time of My Life
I'd be being dishonest if I were to leave out "Time of My Life" from my list, despite its late 2010 release date. "Time of My Life" is on my 2012 list not because I still listen to it frequently (I do) and not because it's Patrick's best song (it isn't, though it's up there). Rather, I'm including it because, every few weeks, it's new to me. It connects to me in different ways. At times it was about a bad break up, at times it was about leaving behind old memories, and at times it was about death. All without ever being melodramatic or overwrought. It has some of the greatest elements of Patrick music put together in one of his cleanest tracks yet. Even if you think you've gotten all you ever will from it, trust me -- keep listening.
2. Kyla La Grange - Vampire Smile
"Vampire Smile" is a captivating, wide-screen folk pop song with a distinctive spin on the torch song formula. While the song is certainly still beautiful when the lyrics are taken literally, I prefer a slightly different meaning. It's toxic (and inevitable) love -- the narrator, a bit bad and very lost, longs to be with the captivating, noble subject of the song. Despite the subject's attempts to push her away, the romance is inevitable -- she'll suck his blood and kill all his friends, consuming his life, before it all comes crashing down again.
3. Fort Lean - Sunsick
"Sunsick" captures a rare energy, a perfect kind of anthem for those moments in life when you feel like you've just woken up from some kind of disillusionment, whatever it may have been related to. Its strength lies in its layering, as every element works to build up and maintain the infectious energy of the track.
4. Alex Winston - Sister Wife
"Sister Wife" is perhaps one of the ultimate examples of a pop music gem. It's insanely memorable -- listen three times and you'll have the hook forever. It has those distinctive, wonky twee vocals that define Alex's music. It's about polygamy. And disliking your sister wife. It's an undeniable jam with the perfect amount of aggression and pop lightness to make it work on any given Tuesday afternoon, no matter what the situation is.
5. Zoo of Berlin - Kingston Gates
"Kingston Gates" is an easy listen, and perhaps that is a large factor in why it works. It's complex arrangement laid over smooth vocals is magical. Listen to it when you're doing something else for full effect, when you're least on guard. It'll keep you going without distracting you and set the pace for whatever you're doing.
Quote:
Originally posted by josh_923
MY BEST OF 2012 SO FAR
05. LANA DEL REY - BORN TO DIE
Born To Die is Lana’s second single from her second album of the same name. What I like about this is that it is typically Lana. What she does is who she is. Plus, its chorus sounds so haunting which is one of the characteristics about a song which I like. No wonder she got successful in the UK. Thanks is due to this song
04. DEMI LOVATO - GIVE YOUR HEART A BREAK
Give Your Heart A Break is Demi’s follow-up to Skyscraper. What I like about this is that it is a dance-pop tune where you can either dance to or sing along with. And the lyrics are so well-written. I was so astounded when I heard “Don’t wanna break your heart, wanna give your heart a break.” Kudos to Demi. I hope she’ll get back on the right track
03. GOTYE f/ KIMBRA - SOMEBODY THAT I USED TO KNOW
Somebody That I Used To Know was the first song I heard from Gotye, though up to now I don’t even know what they are, if they’re a band or something Well, aside from the fact that it is indeed lyrically brilliant, it is my ex’s favorite song too, which adds the emotional factor in the song. Plus the story is almost all about what she did to me, whatsoever. Personally, I am certainly moved by this song which once brought me to tears.
02. ONE DIRECTION - ONE THING
One Thing is the third(?) single off One Direction’s Up All Night. Clearly, in my opinion, this is one of the best songs in the album. It is a kind of dance-pop-rock song which is extremely catchy and cheesy at the same time. I don’t know how I got addicted to the band, but trust me, I’m super straight and I don’t see anything physically attractive about these guys (Sorry, fangirls) However, I find their music really cool which could be a factor why they are one of the fast-rising new boy bands of today
01. FUN. FEATURING JANELLE MONAE - WE ARE YOUNG
TONIIIIIIIIGGGHTTT!!!! WE ARE YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOUNG!!!
I first heard this song from my favorite TV show, Glee. And I knew, right from the very beginning, that this is entirely better than the original. Then after continuous plays, I decided to download the original as well, and I was NOT disappointed. This is indeed one of the most catchy and lyrically tremendous songs TO DATE. Not to mention the success it is having even if they are just new in the music industry, spending FIVE weeks at the top, and still being there. EPIC. Just EPIC. For sure, this band, this song, Janelle, and everyone else involved in the success of this song, will continue on being victorious in the future.
Quote:
Originally posted by Monkey
This list is a perfect representation of what music I lean towards. Generally, a great hook or melody is what I look for in songs.
1. Umbrella by Rihanna Feat. Jay-Z (2007)
Umbrella is probably my all-time favorite song. Back when it was released in 2007, I instantly fell in love with it. From that point, I moved from a fan of Rihanna's to a stan. To this day, she is my #1! I started to support her by purchasing her albums and singles. This is also where my interest in music charts and sales began. This classic had such an impact on my life because it further increased my interest in music. Without it, I probably would not even be on ATRL and not have any interested in music and chart information.
2) Damaged by Danity Kane (2008)
These are my girls! DK is the first kind of any artist I stanned for. I stanned for them even before Diddy created the group. I watched every episode of Making the Band 4 and I bought both of their albums. I love them to death, especially Aundrea and Aubrey. In my eyes, they were the perfect package. They had the talent, the moves, and the looks. Damaged is my favorite song by them and has the most plays on my iTunes. I still have hope they will get back together and record a new album.
3) Naturally by Selena Gomez & the Scene (2009)
This is the perfect song for me. It's catchy, fun, and you can easily sing along to it. I don't take my music too seriously. Music is just something I enjoy. For me to like a song, I do not need an emotional connection of any kind. If its catchy and can make me groove, I'll like. To be honest, it does not take much to impress me when it comes to music.
4) From the Bottom of My Broken Heart by Britney Spears (1999)
FTBOMBH is my all time favorite ballad. Everytime I listen to it, I go back to when I was about 7 or 8 years old listening to my mom sing this song in her black Nissan. I remember she also used to sing it on karaoke. It always makes me feel so nostalgic. I miss the good ol' days where I would just watch Power Rangers and Pokémon.
5) Gee by Girls' Generation (2009)
This catchy K-Pop tune is what sparked my interest in K-Pop. K-Pop is all about what I love in music. It isn't too serious. It's just pure fun and entertainment, which is all you need to keep my interest.