Amanda Bynes vs Rihanna?

Now if you would have asked me 5 years ago what old school Nickelodeon star had probably made it the best in the industry it would have been Amanda Bynes. 

Oh how the good have fallen.... hard. 

Not even going to try and go into thinking what Amanda is going through right now but she is about half way into a full blown Britney Spears type meltdown. 

Her latest escapade? Blasting Rihanna...

Not cool Amanda not cool.

I did although love Rihannas response. A simple tweet stating: "This is what happens when you cancel intervention".

I hope Amanda gets the help she needs. Fast.

Introducing Laura Marling.... Again.

October 2011. That was the first time I had heard a Laura Marling song and I instantly fell in love. It only took the world about a year and a half to catch on. Today I logged into one of my favorite websites to read the headline:

"Even If You Don't Like Folk Music... You Need To Hear This Album"

And yup you guessed it the persons album is the new Laura Marling album. It is amazing. Follow the link above to read all about it and listen to some of the new songs off of it. And trust me remember the name Laura Marling... its her year. Finally!

Ultimate Dance Compilation

This is a great video that combines the new Daft Punk song "Get Lucky" with some of the best dance moves on television and the movies. 

Rolling Stone Wine Club

If I drank wine I bet you this would be a pretty cool thing to have/collect. 

Right now they are featuring the following award-winning wines:

-Grateful Dead Red Wine Blend

-The Rolling Stones Merlot

-Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon Cabernet Sauvignon

-The Police Synchronicity Red Blend

-Woodstock Chardonnay

'The Voice' Eliminations

Well last night America failed me yet again. I don't know why I feel invested in shows that don't care about me but yet again my hopes that America would actually choose a talented winner of 'The Voice' were ended in one elimination. My two favorite singers (probably the best in the competition) Judith Hill and Sarah Simmons were eliminated from the show leaving mostly country artists on Team Blake to battle it out.

I know that this country loves its country music but if you were to say that that girl Holly or the terrible duo of the Swan Brothers were better then Judith or Sarah, you need to clean your ears out.

These girls basically slayed the entire competition only to get voted out of the Top 8. 

I should have known after who they picked for winners the last two seasons (anyone remember them or hear from them since? Because I haven't). This show can not pick a good winner, never has, never will.

And with that I'm done watching for the Season and probably for the duration of this show. 

I know I sound bitter but I am. :) Aren't I allowed to be?

Moving on to bigger and better things hope everyone's Wednesday is off to a good start.

New Kelly Clarkson

Sorry about today I had high hopes but work in the end has kicked my butt. Hopefully I will have more time and more to say tomorrow. For now here is a new video from Kelly Clarkson 'People Like Us'. 

Tuesday.

Hello and welcome to yet another week here. I can not believe this time next week we will be sitting in the month of June, unbelievable how fast this year is going by. I hope everyone had a great holiday weekend, I have delayed my holiday weekend until this weekend where I leave Thursday to make another trip back north. Should hopefully be easy with very little traffic either way, keep your fingers crossed.

I'm pretty slammed here at work today, have a big meeting at 10 and then have to run an errand at lunch followed up by a late volunteer event tonight. Should be exhausting but the day should fly by... I hope.

Here is something to tie you over until I get back later.

New Drew Kennedy! Yay! He sits in with A Southern Gospel Revival and together they pretty much create magic. Just sit back and enjoy.

Fail. Fail. Fail.

Geez I am losing grip on my television watching. A few months ago I canceled my Showtime subscription when they announced the end of Dexter. I can watch those episodes online but I thought that was the only show left on the network. I WAS WRONG.

I missed the final four episodes of one of my favorites The Big C and I can't believe myself. If you have not seen this show it stars Laura Linney as a mother who is battling a rare form of cancer. Its dramatic, hilarious and everything you could want from a 30 min a week show. The acting is some of the best I've seen and I was under the impression that they would not be bringing it back after season 3. 

Here is a blog I wrote about the music on the show a few years back. The video is no longer available but I'll post it below. What a show... what a show.

Finding and watching the final four episodes has been added to my list to do this weekend.

Watching this final scene from Season 1 makes me cry every single time.

Story of My Twenties

Wow these are so true.

"Independent living is... eating out. Because you can't cook anything above instant noodles"

"Independent living is having to face your fears..."

"Independent living is... eating breakfast three times a day on a bed in front of the television"

Christina Perri New Album Soon!

I was excited when I read the news this morning that as I type this my girl Christina Perri is in London at the Abbey Road studios recording her new album.

If it is half the album the last one is its sure to be spectacular.

Love everything about this artist.

"I have died every day waiting for you, darling don't be afraid I have loved you for a thousand years... and will for a thousand more"

(I swear if this wasn't used in the Twilight films it would be my wedding song)

Regrets Doubled

This is the set-list from Wednesday nights Josh Ritter show. Of course he played all my favorites including Change of Time, The Curse and New Lover.

Not fair. Not fair. NOT FAIR.

Next time I tell myself I want to do something, I better do it or I will be regretting it just like I regret missing this show.

Ahhh! New Grace Potter Music Video!!

Ahhhh! That is the sound of me freaking out, slamming my office door and watching the new Grace Potter video for "The Lion, The Beast The Beat"

The video is shot at her concerts across the country and perfectly sums up what it is like seeing this amazing performer live.

Note to self Billboard Music Awards: If you want a great LIVE performer next year book her now!

Lost Finale (3 Years Later)

"See You In Another Life Brother"

Its hard to believe that it was 3 years ago tomorrow when my favorite show came to a close. I still find myself wishing it never ended, watching old re-runs and remembering what an amazing thought provoking show it was. 

If you want to read my post from that day: Major spoiler alert do not read or watch if you are ever planning on watching this series.

Follow This Link (I went in deep)

For everyone else this is how they wrapped up what I believe is the best drama to ever hit the small screen. This final scene still sends chills up my spine.

The more I think about it the more I think that I may start from the beginning again this weekend. (Yes in case you didn't notice yet I'm that much of a dork)

I Miss You LOST!!

The Office Mega Blooper Reel

Its been one week since the series finale and I'm still mourning the loss of this great show. So what have I decided to do today? Well thats obvious, watch a 2 hour blooper reel from the shows 9 seasons. Yup. This is happening.

"You're evil like a hobbit"

Heads California, Tails Carolina

Okay everyone brace yourselves I'm about to talk country music. *Gasp* I know. As I have been recently been explained I don't think that I ever got a proper introduction to this genre. This is not surprising coming from NJ but as a lover of all music I can't not give credit where credit is due. So here I am giving country music a chance... I'm starting off with a song that was covered on The Voice this week. 

Remember the name Danielle Bradbery because I'm pretty sure regardless of the outcome of this competition she will have music executives knocking down her door. She is a self taught country singer who learned how to sing along side her radio at the age of 12. She now is only 16. Yes that is 4 short years and she is incredible. Now for the song, "Heads California, Tails Carolina" was originally a JD Messina song and it is perfect for her voice. I absolutely love it and haven't gotten it out of my head all week. 

Take a peek. I did and its changing my perspective on all things country. 

(And don't you worry Dad I will not be wearing a cowboy hat and moving to Nashville anytime soon)

Congrats Carole King

Last night the legendary singer/songwriter Carole King made history again when she became the first woman ever to win the Gerswhin Prize for Popular Song, which is given by the President and Library of Congress each year. She will join the ranks of Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder and Paul Simon who have won in previous years. Songs like "You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman", "So Far Away" and "You've Got A Friend" have made her craft timeless and wonderful. 

In an interview with the AP she stated "It is yet another of the many important messages to young woman that women matter, women make a difference."

Congrats Carole on this well deserved award.

Springsteen Trailer

I can't believe we actually made it to Friday. This week was long, tough and I'm certainly glad it is over. Now it is on to Memorial Day Weekend in the city! I'm hoping for some river time, maybe another Squirrels game, hanging out, good sleep you know everything a holiday weekend should be (except I have to work Monday...boo). 

Lets start today off with a high note. Here is the new trailer for "Springsteen & I". The movie will examine the singers loyal relationship with his fans and I will be first one on line to see it.

Sunday! Sunday! Sunday!

I know I really shouldn't rush through this weekend (because I really am looking forward to it). Buuuuut when Sunday comes I will be super excited because I get to binge on Arrested Development!

Lets take a look back at all the 'Chicken Dances' shall we?

All the 'Arrested Development' "Chicken" Dances from Flavorwire on Vimeo.

Another Fail

I know of many people who went to the Kennedy Center Performing Arts building last night to see Trey Anastasio play with the National Symphony Orchestra. I have been hearing nothing but great things... of course.

One day I'll be able to witness this...One day.

Here is the video of him sitting in with the Atlanta Symphony last year. 

I Failed.

If you were to ask me the last few months what was one thing I wanted to do here in Richmond this spring it was to see Josh Ritter at the Botanical Gardens. Well the show was last night and I wasn't there. Such a fail on my part. Was a little bit too broke to justify a Wednesday night concert so I passed. 

I don't regret many things but I regret missing last night.

Mama Knows Best - Sarah Simmons

Ms. Sarah Simmons stole this weeks show on 'The Voice'. She finally broke out of her shell and let the world know how powerful of a singer she really is. Singing Jesse J's 'Mama Knows Best' she easily flattened the competition. I loved it and so will you.

R.I.P. Music

Paris Hilton has signed a record deal with Little Waynes Cash Money to produce and put out her new album.

This also makes me think if Paris can get a record deal I really do have a shot of singing back up for Gladys Knight one day (My dream in life). Anything is possible!!

Van Halen Guitar Cover

Meet Tina S. She is a ridiculously good guitar player and she can't be over the age of 15. Watch. Now.

My Only Post Today

It doesn't seem right today with all that is going on to be writing about ridiculous things so I will only have one post today and it is to let everyone in my life or reading this know that I love them. The last 24 hours of my life has been a crazy one. Yesterday there were devastating tornadoes in Oklahoma that has left me speechless. The stories coming out of that small town are absolutely incredible and it makes me feel lucky to be alive. This morning I woke up to the news of one of my best friends Dads passing away and then got news that this kid with Cystic Fibrosis that I know has been granted his double lung transplant at Duke University and is on his way into surgery as I type this. 

The world certainly works in mysterious ways. 

Finally if you all do one thing today (besides hugging your loved ones) watch this next video. Its inspirational to know that even in the toughest of times humanity has its way of creating beautiful moments to honor the loving spirit of Mr. Zach Sobiech. If you don't know that name after the video you will. 

So yeah not to get all sappy or anything today but its certainly been a day of reflection and being thankful for what I have in my wonderful life. 

All the best to everyone out there struggling today. My thoughts are with you.

No Place Like The Office

"I wish there was a way you know you were in the good ole days before you actually leave them"

One of my favorite shows The Office wrapped up their 9 season series on Thursday night with what I feel like was a great goodbye. I'm not going to sit here and say this show did not struggle the last few seasons but they did a fantastic job these last few episodes giving the send off the show deserved. (I will still say that season 2 of this show is one of the best comedy seasons in history). 

They gave each character their due and there was even a surprise appearance from Mr. Steve Carrel. I even screamed "Michael!" when he returned; they did a great job fooling us that he wasn't coming back. I watched every single episode of every single season and feel good about saying goodbye to it now. It was also fitting that my little brother was there watching with me on Thursday night since the two of us used to watch the show together all the time or call each other after an episode would air to laugh at the ridiculousness of what just happened. 

I understand that this show was a love it or leave it show. There weren't any in-between fans. But to me it perfectly summed up what it is working in an office with a bunch of ordinary ridiculous people or working for a terrible boss who thinks they are the best. We have all been there. Also finally how can I forget the Jim and Pam storyline. Maybe one of my favorite tv love stories of all time...

So goodbye Office. I will miss our weekly dates on Thursday night but I will take with me Pam's advice.

"Be strong. Trust yourself. Love yourself. Conquer your fears. Just go after what you want. And act fast. Because life just isn't that long."

Anchorman 2 Trailer

Hilarious new trailer for Anchorman 2 premiered over the weekend. Can. Not. Wait.

Goodbye Stefon

This weekend we said goodbye to another season of Saturday Night Live and the departure of Bill Hader and one of my favorite characters of all time Stefon. Take a look at how they said goodbye to the character, it was hilarious, over the top and most of all ridiculous. Just like Stefon. 

Man I'm going to miss Bill. 

Poor Toots

On Saturday night my friends and I went to Richmonds annual Riverrock festival where we were treated to a great performance by Toots and the Maytals on Saturday night. Unfortunately the show ended in a tragic situation. Now let me say this first, I've been to well over 100 concerts and I have never in my day seen this kind of thing happen.

There we were dancing and singing along to the Reggae legend, we even stayed through the rain and the crowd of about 6-7,000 were having a blast. All of a sudden around 10:15 I see Toots grab his head throw down the microphone and run off stage. What followed was crazy. A cop jumped from the stage and tackled someone in the crowd. 

Reports are surfacing that it was a 19 year old drunk teenage who threw a stolen liquor bottle from the event at the stage and hit Toots in the head. He was rushed to the hospital. The guitarist came out and chastised the kid and apologized that they had to end the show abruptly but Toots was their main concern.

Now as a Richmonder I am embarrassed. We are finally getting some really great acts to these festivals and what do we do? Repay them like this? How awful. I'm embarrassed for our city and feel terrible for the organizers of this event who really put on a fantastic event by the river. 

What An Item

According to Rolling Stone.com a custom made electric guitar played by Beatles John Lennon and George Harrison just sold at an auction for $408,000. It was a custom VOX guitar and was part of the annual Music Icons auction on May 18th in Times Square. 

"The rare offering of a VOX guitar played by both Lennon and Harrison is what rock & roll legends are made of" said the auction house, Juliens Auctions. 

The guitar was mostly used in 1967 for the album Magical Mystery Tour.

Now who is the good person who bought this item for me?? :)

Dear Kanye West

Above you will see that Kanye West debuted his new song "New Slave" on Friday night on 66 buildings across the world (this one is in Brooklyn). Then on Saturday he sang it again on Saturday Night Live. I don't know about anyone else but I am completely over this guy. His music is just not good anymore and really how can we take this man seriously when he is rapping about materialism and race when he is about to wife and have a baby with a Kardashian?? Not possible.