The Talentless State of the Pop Music Industry

OK, time to throw a bit of controversy into my blog.

Recently, just like the rest of the Australia. I have been watching The Voice (AUS).  I have been overwhelmed by the sheer talent of the artists on it. It seems the whole world has completely forgotten what real talent is. Look at the Itunes chart.  Hear the songs played on pop radio. You hear songs that are made by a computer and are madly auto-tuned. These songs are designed to be played in a club. I don't actually know anyone who lives in a club or spends their whole life there.  So, why the hell do we listen to such crap so MUCH? I would really like to know. 'Artists' like Rihanna, Nicki Minaj (and the list goes on) make thousands (no millions) of dollars out of what? Making sexy music videos. Making 'music' that is easy to dance to? Producing catchy songs. I honestly don't know. 

It's only when you see real talent that realise what a horrible state the industry is actually in.  But I (and many other music gurus - I am not implying I am in any way a music guru) predict a change in this techno inspired face of pop.

We all know Adele. She has broken all kinds of records. Her album has SOLD LIKE CRAZY and is still in the top 20. It's because she opened up the world's eyes to real, raw, honest talent. Which so many singers have. So, I have crossed fingers that this is the direction pop music is heading in. A chord driven ballad state.

I googled 'the horrible state of the pop industry' and came across a Yahoo Answers page full of strong opinions. Some people said music had become like fast food, some people said it was thanks to the youth of the planet (cough, cough....me) but what really stood out of the whole discussion is that no one really liked the whole computer made pop thing.

Of course, this is a very negative side to the argument. Also on the charts is Flo and the Machine, Ed Sheeren and some other really quite talented artists. But songs on the radio (and very often the charts) are predominantly techno, club-driven ones which I personally don't find very pleasent to listen to.

How do you feel about the current pop music industry? Answer in the comments.

Have a think about it,
Isabella

The Picks of the Month - Music, Fashion and Food

So view this as a plug in to the amazing things I’ve seen this and last month.  We can all admit these few months have definitely have their ups and downs like most months. But let’s be optimistic and focus on the good stuff. 

Music

Lana Del Rey

Not amazing live but fabulous songs and big lips.  Ring any bells? It must because Lana Del Rey is the new big thing.  Sure, she’s liked and disliked all over the world but the amount of hate she gets doesn’t stop her from producing amazing music.  I give her massive thumbs up.  

Lonely Boy by The Black Keys  

The new song by The Black Keys has gone absolutely viral. It is loved all over the world. The tune is catchy AND they are talented. This can be very rare in the current pop music scene.  I utterly adore it. There’s only one problem…I can never get it out of my head.   

Boys Like You by 360 feat. Gossling

I love the chores and the voice of Gossling plays my heart strings but 360 annoys me (all rappers do) and the theme of the song is really horrible and not the most pleasant to listen to when you take the lyrics seriously (shown in music video, which is not displayed here as I feel it isn’t all that appropriate for this blog).  

Tongue Tied by Grouplove

I’ve run out of words for love. I think I’ve already said love and adore so many times in this article. I’ll just say I’m nuts about this song. The backing line with the instruments in the background is so fabulous and bold. This means the song is wonderful to listen to and never drags. 

Fashion  

Collard Shirts

Those collard seem to ensure sophistication and funkiness. They absolutely ooze coolness whether they are covered in a bold print or in a simple colour.  I heart these shirts!  

Photo From
http://rockinthatbling.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/vanessa-collar.jpg 

Polka Dots

Oh my gosh. Who knew these tiny little spots could make me feel so happy. They absolutely scream cuteness.  I love them on 50’s styles dresses, on skirts, on headbands on EVERYTHING. 

Photo from http://www.isdress.net/img/black-embroidered-polka-dot.jpg

High Waisted Skirts

Oh, how I love wearing a skirt tucked in.  It seems elegant and cool all at the same time. Wearing one with a cute blouse and a pair on sunnies is one of my new favourite outfit combos

Photo from https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJ9ggK9U_5BY254wL1jdzInpibpfggaKEa8udPQgFayHArL6bRZg4nzjCn5-6YpeNnYG-sOKT3dCzt5qmrXwnTeNTf3x1Cr7wFTsjcNQhLmMVCYTEopW_MmBc1DliscLvPhbzfmd_IbQ3/s400/2b86082e-9d20-47a1-948f-2cbedeee309e.jpg

Vintage

Ahh, the love of the old and lost. Rekindling new trends in one of my new favourite things to do and vintage can really help with that. 

Photo from http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nlnE3r1mn-A/Tb7hbEwGqRI/AAAAAAAAAEY/LZQt-K4wcAc/s1600/pretty-pink-vintage-collage.png

Food

Tofu

I love tofu in all forms.  It is high in protein and iron and low in calories. It’s also highly delicious. A perfect healthy snack. What’s not to love? 

Photo from http://www.thefatlossauthority.com/fat_loss_tips/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Tofu-Image.jpg

Thai Food

Mmmmm. I love the bold and delicious flavour of Thai Food. Pad Thai anyone?  

Photo from https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrAYkbRtk-EIvfXOzit2vhHV0WoHl3l4P2NiVPnMGiLgX5jNu4darunsL90qpmpaA0YQrtYh5T4W0MyAVFkpfMPqXrlJiH0-BJsYxc2HXxoJV4DGb8y17ExacLj49PMlpGKk-UBqwalyI/s400/padthai.jpg 

Scones

Is there anything better than a warm scone with jam and cream, a cup of tea and a really good read. No there is not?

Photo from http://www.smh.com.au/ffximage/2007/02/12/scones_narrowweb__300x449,0.jpg

Have a nice weekend

Xoxoxoxo

Isabella 

Lana Del Rey: Fabulous or Fake?

Lana Del Rey aka Lizzy Grant seems to be the new ‘thing.’  Her deep and somewhat mournful voice is beautiful, in my opinion. I have been a supporter of her songs since I found out about them. I’m ecstatic for when her album comes out.   

Source

Her career has, in some parts, been influenced and supported by her very wealthy father. Maybe that’s why so many people seem to hate her.  

I believe the thing people have to except is that she is really talented and it doesn’t really matter how she got to the top because she’s there now and I don’t think she’ll be climbing down any time soon. It’s hard to make it in the music biz and she just had a bit of a boost to help her (her father’s money).   If anyone is most likely to sell millions of albums this year it’s her.  

Another thing people seem to dis her about is her massive lips. This is just plain vein. Music isn’t about beauty it’s about, well…music. And if people do care about beauty so much they shouldn’t be complaining, as Lana Del Rey is a beautiful girl.

I can’t say much about her fashion sense, as the world hasn’t seen much of it yet. From what I can tell it seems feminine, elegant and in some cases regal.  

So in conclusion I would say Lana Del Rey is amazing. I respect the fact that she isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but if she isn’t yours than can you please not write nasty things about her all over the Internet. Hate is a horrible thing and I think Lana Del Rey has more than her fair share of it. Put yourself in her shoes.  Who would want people calling them ‘duck lips’ and ‘fake’ and ‘untalented?’  Hmmm, Let me think…exactly…no one.

What you think of Lana Del Rey?

Stay exceptionally fantastic

Xoxoxoxo

Isabella

Florence and the Machine

I just realised I haven't done a music post for a really long time. So I thought I'd do one about one of my favourite bands. Florence and the machine.  


Florence and the machine is an English indie pop band. The singer is Florence Welsh. I love it because it seems very pure. The band isn't trying to be something it's not. It's just trying to make good music. Her voice is amazing and the songs she sings are fab.  


The style is Alternative with a few influences fom pop, rock and soul.  


Her fashion style is unique, retro and quite rock band like.  It's a bit 80's. She wears a lot of strange yet fabulous dresses. 
  

My favourite songs by Flo and the Machine are Shake it Out, Dog Days are Over and You've Got The Love. 


Hope you enjoyed 
Stay fabulous 
Xoxoxoxoxoxo 
Isabella 

8 Days of Christmas, Day 4 - Merry Media

You may not want to listen to Christmas music or play Christmas apps but I recommend you do it if you're a bit low on Christmas spirit. I love Christmas music, I find it so happy and uplifting. 


Festive Albums (All avaliable on Itunes)  


The Classical Jazz One 
The Classic Christmas Album 
Tony Bennett  
This album is smooth and calming. It's jazz but has influence from classical music. I like it and it definitely gets me into the Christmas spirit. Proabably best for people ranging from 40-60.  

The Poppy Jazz One  
Christmas 
Michael Buble 
This is my favourite Christmas album. The genre is pop but it has a very jazzy feel. I absolutely love it! Festive, fun and happy. Best for people 20-50 

The Very Very Very Poppy One 
Under the Mistletoe 
Justin Bieber 
I don't like this album much. If your really into pop then it's the one for you. If you a 10-20 year old girl it's also the album for you (unless you are me).  

The Classical One 
Holiday Spirits 
Straight No Chaser 
This album is very classical and.........well I don't really know any other word to describe it. It nice and it's festive but not really my type of music.   

Christmas Apps 
All avaliable at the app store 




Cards  
Send cards to all your friends from your phone or Ipad! 
http://www.apple.com/au/iphone/from-the-app-store/apps-by-apple/cards.html 


Gift Plan 
Helps you plan all the Gifts you need.  
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/gift-plan/id395091924?mt=8  


Paper Flakes 
So Entertaining. 
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/paper-flakes/id406949346?mt=8  


Santa GPS 
Track Santa on Christmas Eve! Great for little kids. 
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/santa-gps/id343056407?mt=8  


7 Sleeps Untill Christmas  
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/7-sleeps-until-christmas/id472485724?mt=8 






Hope you enjoyed! 
Stay happy and festive and fab
Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox 
Isabella

Songs: A Love, Hate Relationship

I'll tell you what. I love some songs but I really hate some as well. Some songs are seriously hard on your ears. Maybe because they are annoying, the tunes are horrible or because the person singing them has no talent. Here's a list of ten songs I love and five I hate (more of the good stuff is better).  


Ok, let's get the bad stuff over and done with.  


1. Achy Breaky Heart by Billy Cyrus


When I was littler I was obsessed with Billy Cyrus's daughter, Miley Cyrus(I was about 8). Thank god, I don't like her anymore. Allegedly, the family is 'musical.' This song is barely music. Some country music can be good. This is not. AND WHAT HAPPENED TO HIS HAIR?!?  

   
2.Bounce by Calvin Harris 
I am not a fan of techno music so I didn't think I'd like this song. I hate it. It has taken the word repetative to a whole new level. Gosh. 

  




3. Not afraid by Eminem 
Barely any tune. He sounds like he's about to punch you. Enough said!  

4. Cotton Eye Joe 
One word. C.O.R.N.E.Y.  

5. Axel X 
Repetition. It's ok when it's repeating something good but when it's repeating something BAD it's terrible.

Now for 10 songs I ADORE 


1. Back to black by Amy Winehouse  
I love her voice, it's so different to anything you have ever heard. R.I.P Amy. 

2. Set Fire to the Rain 
Adele has been wildly popular for about three months. All they play on the radio is her songs. Still, I love this song and can't get over how good it is. 

3. And I'm telling you I'm not going, Dreamgirls 
I have never seen Dreamgirls but I saw this on Glee and ever since then I have been in love with it! 

4. Cameo Lover by Kimbra 
I've told you I love this song. Just listen. 

5. 1234 by Feist 
Feist is wildly talented. I play this on guitar and love it. 

6. Unpretty, I feel pretty by Glee 
I love West side story and this has modernised the song in a way that I LOVE. 

7. It's not unusual by Glee 
Yeah, I prefer this to the original. Sorry. 

8. Baby it's cold outside 
Yes, I know it's a christmas carol but I still love it. Jazzy and cool. Sweet and uplifting. What's not to love? 

9. Empire state of mind 
I went to NYC and loved it. This song just reminds me of how much fun I had there. And I love the tune. 

10. Dog Days by Florence and the Machine  
In a world of super bad commercial pop, this makes your ears feel amazing. 

THE END 
What do you think? Feel free to comment. 


Stay stylishly fab 
XOXOXOXOXO
Isabella 

Kimbra: A 21 year old Kiwi who's booming in the music industry

I have the craziest music taste ever! I like Alternative Pop and also really commercial pop. I love showtunes and jazz as well plus I’m in a choir so I have an eye for a little bit of classical too (but not too classical, I hate opera).

Kimbra is perfect for my music taste. Her style is Alternative pop with a jazzy twist and I love it.  She hasn’t been in the music industry long but she is already doing really well. 

Kimbra was born in Hamilton, New Zeland. When she was 14 she entered a music contest and won second place. She recorded her first song Settle Down last year. Her album Vows was released on 29^th October and it charted all over the world.

I also love her fashion sense. Her bob is very cute, the curls really suit her. Her style is very girly and I think if jazz music objectified itself as a style that would be hers. Her look is flirty, playful and vintagey (yes, I know that’s not a word). It’s  actually a bit 50’s in my opinion. It’s cute and suits her style of music 

My favourite songs by her (not in any order) are………….. Cameo Lover, Good Intent and Settle Down. I love the jazzy element of them so much , especially in Cameo Lover. Watch the videos below! 

Itunes plug in

Hello, again readers (if there are any) 

I have just realised that I said i would have music on this blog I well I don't so far (despite the fact that I <3 music) Anywayz so, here is right nows top 5 Itunes top chart! (with my recommendations/opinions on the side) 

1. Somebody that I used to know by Gotye (fear. Kimbra) 

I love this song actually, very nice. Its catchy and they are both really quite talented. Lovely tune! 4 and a half  out of 5 

2. Moves like Jagger by Maroon 5

I love this song, its so CATCHY. I love the cool whistling. I don't think Maroon 5 is as talented as Gotye but still ok.  4 out of 5 

3. Someone like you by Adele

Great song. Adele= very very very talented. But its been on the charts for solong. I am getting so sick of it!!!!!!! 1/2 out of 5 (I gave it 5/5 when it first came out its score has dropped cos I'm really sick of it.) 

4. Titanium by David Getta (feat Sia) 

Yeah it's fine don't really have much to say. She's ok, he's pretty good at being a Dj. 3/5 

5. Bounce (Radio Edit) by Calvin Harris (feat Kelis) 

This is a pretty crap song. No talent really no melody just a computer for 75% of the song. 2/5