Well, this will be the end of my “100 Artists” music blog. I have enjoyed it, and if any of you are still reading this at all, I hope you’ve enjoyed it too.
20. Jimmy Eat World
It’s interesting how almost all of JEW’s best songs are one-word titles: Kill, Dizzy, Work, Clarity, Seventeen, Futures, Cautioners, Sweetness. . . Throw in Here You Me and Get it Faster and that may be their top ten.
Songs: Any mentioned
19. Jason Mraz
You don’t meet many people that dislike the music Mraz makes. There is just something about his style that is unique and entertaining. And I love the fact that he can freestyle with just his guitar and voice.
Songs: You and I Both, 1000 things, Sleeping to dream
18. Boyz II Men
They were my favorite when I was little. I recently saw them live for a reunion concert. They weren’t quite as mobile as I remember, but their voices were just as good.
Songs: In the Still of the Night, Water Runs Dry, On Bended Knee
17. Mat Kearney
I’m interested in his new album coming soon; but so far, I’m not too impressed with the new song “Hey Mama”. Maybe he’ll rap again in this one though!
Songs: All I Have, Fire & Rain, Girl America
16. Ne-Yo
I love Ne-Yo, but I think “Shaffer” is caught in the wrong era. He’s still pretty dang famous, but I think he could’ve been even bigger 35 years earlier. These days, R&B is pretty much dead, and pop and hip-hop are all about who can make the better song for the club. Sure, Ne-Yo sometimes makes music just for the club too, but he’s got real talent and ingenuity; I don’t think club music is really what he was made for. He’s Michael Jackson of our time, but nobody would ever put them on the same level. Let’s try and compare them though:
Singing – Michael barely wins
Songwriting – Ne-Yo
Dancing – Mike, but Ne-Yo’s pretty good
Swagger – Ne-Yo
Uniqueness – Michael, easy
Acting ability – Ne-Yo
Performing – Probably Jackson
# of hits, fame, legend status, others’ praise – all Jackson (but what if they switched places… I think Mr. Smith would’ve been just as Big!)
Songs: Because of You, One in a Million, Miss Independent
15. Joshua James
The passion, pain, and feeling of James are almost unmatched. He really knows how to capture the essence of loss, sin, and doubt. I like happy music sometimes too, but there’s just something about the sadness and loneliness of some songs that I really, really like. Maybe there just aren’t too many genuinely happy artists out there because I feel sad songs have a lot more feeling, truthfulness, and pure human emotion than do the happy ones. The 2 bests gloomy songwriters have to be James and Ray Lamontagne. Ray touches on the despairs of love well, but James doesn’t really mention love much, which I think makes him unique. His dark songs are more about lack of faith, the woes of the world, and depression.
Songs: Lawn Full of Marigolds; Lord, Devil and Him; Crooked Arrow
14. Eric Hutchinson
It’s funny how I just went on a rant about sad songs, and now my next artist is the fun, pop-sounding, melody-based Hutchinson. His songs, though some lyrics are definitely not all joyful, can’t help but make you happy. I can’t wait for his new album. I’ve been checking his website regularly for a release date for like the last year.
Songs: Oh!, It hasn’t been long enough, Outside Villanova
13. Stevie Wonder
My second favorite old timer all-time (if you don’t include George Strait as an old timer) . . .
Songs: Lately, Overjoyed, I never dreamed you’d leave in Summer
12. James Taylor
And this is my all-time number one old timer. The original JT has so many good songs. He and Carole King together writing songs are magic. I will always love JT and think of old family vacations whenever I hear his timeless music.
Songs: Something in the Way She Moves, Carolina in My Mind, and Caroline I See You
11. The Rocket Summer
I often like to think of Pop Punk music as a thing of my past, but Bryce Avery is one artist I can never let go of. His crafty ability to make tons of his songs applicable to a girl or God, depending on the listener’s preference has always impressed me. I’ve seen him live and the image of his sweat dripping onto his piano will forever be with me. You could tell he is a humble and passionate guy who loves making music.
Songs: Run To You, So In this Hour, Light
*These are my top ten, and I think they are a step up from the rest. They’re those artists for me where I would purchase anything they made and feel ok about it. They can hardly do wrong by me. I’ll list their top five songs as well as their best album, because, well you should hear them; they’re great!
10. George Strait
I’m sure all of you know George Strait. But that’s what is great about him; He never goes away, he has hit after hit, and he is so freakin’ cool. He can hold a guitar on stage and strum it barely once per song and nobody says a thing. How can you; he’s George Strait! I can’t think of anyone ever with a better country swagger and of anyone but my wife with a better smile (and that’s still a close race). It is on my bucket list to see him live. I probably better hurry up, because he’s not getting any younger . . . but then again, he may be making hits into his 90’s!
Songs: She’ll leave you with a smile, I cross my heart, I can still make Cheyenne, I’ve come to expect it from you, The Chair/ The Fireman – tie; Album: Just get his ’50 Number Ones’ if you can afford it, you can never have enough Strait.
9. Joe Purdy
Purdy’s love for music is evident in the fact that he puts out a new CD every year, and sometimes even twice a year. He’s only been around like 10 years and has about 12albums! And none of the albums are low quality either; they are all original songs from his heart and each album even seems to have a little theme of its own. I’m sure 2011’s is coming shortly.
Songs: Take my blanket and go, Sad Clown, Make It Up, Can’t get it right today, Homesick Blues;
Album: Paris In The Morning
8. Alison Krauss
It seems like all my favorite artists have come out with new releases lately. Purdy and Strait always have a new album out, and I was anticipating Ray, Dennen, and Amos’s new albums for months, but Alison and Union Station’s new CD caught me by surprise; I didn’t know they were making music together again. It sounds great just as expected. She can’t really do wrong by me – the best female voice in the biz! She could even sing the Russian alphabet and I’d enjoy it.
Songs: Could You Lie, The Lucky One, A Living Prayer, My Love Follows You Where You Go, Down To the River to Pray;
Album: Raising Sand – with Robert Plant
7. Ray Lamontagne
I think I’ve mentioned Lamontagne in a few other artists’ sections. He is one of the best at what he does. And I like his background and attitude towards music.
Songs: Let It Be Me, Empty, Jolene, Old Before Your Time, Like Rock & Roll and Radio;
Album: God Willin’ and the Creek Don’t Rise
6. The Avett Brothers
The Avett Bro’s had a free video single on I-tunes last year and I thought, I think I would really like this band, but couldn’t really afford (literally) to check them out. Then after I’d forgot about that free video (because who really ever watches music videos on i-tunes anyways), Amazon had another free song of theirs that was even better. When I saw a sale on an album, my wonderful wife let me get it. Then this band jumped up to my top twenty after just the first day of having it. Now, they keep moving up! If anybody knows of a way to get cheaper tickets for their upcoming show this month at the Silverton, please, please let me know.
Songs: If it’s the beaches, The Perfect Space, The weight of lies, Salvation Song, Ten thousand words;
Album: I and Love and You
5. Keith Urban & 4. John Mayer
To keep this blog from getting too long, I’ve bunched these two together. I think all of you know them so they don’t need much explaining. They’ve been favorites for years. Usually, I seem to start to like artists less the more and more famous they get; but not these two for some reason. Their talents and music are just too good.
Keith Songs: Only You Can Love Me This Way (our wedding song), Tonight I Wanna Cry, Got It Right This Time, Stupid Boy, and The Hard Way;
Album: Be Here
John Songs: My Stupid Mouth, The Heart of Life, City Love, Belief, Half of My Heart; Album: Room for Squares
3. Brett Dennen
Ang and I recently saw him in concert, and at first, I was a little bit worried that I was going to have to bump him down a few spots (because live performance is very important to me). If you know his music, you know his last two albums added a lot more instruments with some pop and rock flavor to them, and that’s all he and his band were playing at first. I was getting a little bit bored by the 6th or 7th songs. . . But then he finally slowed it down and then rocked out again to end, and did more and more of his impressive oddball dance moves as the night went on and I was grinning cheek to cheek by the end of the show. His guitar skills were less than I imagined, but his unique voice was even better live. And he’s not as unattractive and weird as some of his pictures and videos would make you think. All-in-all, he’s still a top 3 favorite singer-songwriter who makes you want to make a difference in the world, while dancing and singing the whole time!
Songs: Heaven, Aint no Reason, So Far from Me, San Francisco, Because You Are a Woman;
Album: Hope for the Hopeless
2. Amos Lee
I’m trying to think of why I like Lee, and the list is almost too long: His soulful voice, his passion, his defiance of genre, his life-applicable lyrics, his subtly spiritual song-writing, his pure love of music, his former love of basketball, his history as an elementary school teacher, his Philadelphia upbringing (cool city), his hair, his mysterious ethnicity, his music buddies (Zac Brown, Willie, etc), his simple yet complex songs, his calmness, his lack of concern for fame, his mature swagger, his introspective nature, and on and on. Let’s just say there are some reasons I like the guy and some reasons you should no doubt check him out.
Songs: Arms of a Woman, Keep It Loose Keep It Tight, Flower, Violin, and What’s Been Going On/ Black River - tie;
Album: Amos Lee (1st) or Mission Bell – another toss-up.
1. Nickel Creek
Even if they never get back together (which will be very sad because then I’ll never get to see them live), I think they will always be my number one artist/group/band. There can never be another band like them. Childhood friends growing up playing folk festivals together, two siblings plus “Beethoven” of the mandolin (Thile), three former child bluegrass prodigies forming an award-winning band as teenagers that would progress to touch on (as a band or solos or new bands) every genre besides maybe hardcore metal and rap. These three in my eyes are living musical legends, yet more people would know Nickelback (horrible) than would Nickel creek. This is why you can’t trust the masses, or radio, or MTV anymore. Hopefully, to any who have read some of this blog, you will expand your horizons to discover new talented artists like Creek, Dennen, and Lee on your own. Then figure out who and what YOU like, what makes YOU happy, and what touches YOUR soul. I know no artist makes me enjoy music more than Nickel Creek does!
Songs: Don’t sell yourself short, get all three of their albums; they’re each unique and amazing in their own way. My all-time favorite Creek song is “Doubting Thomas” though.
Well, that’s it for now . . . until I find the next random, trivial thing to blog about. If you read this, I hope you enjoy a couple new artists or at least just think about your own musicians that you cherish. Thanks!
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Artists #50-21 of my fave 100!
This has been a crazy, crazy semester for me, but now that I have made it through, I wanted to still finish my top 100 artists that I had started at the beginning of the year. Because I’ll be heading back to school soon, I thought I’d do as many as I could this week. So here are 30 artists (50-21) for your enjoyment!
50. Simon & Garfunkel
I was thinking recently how there’s no way Simon and Garfunkel would get any radio play these days. And then I thought about how much popular music has declined over the years. If you listen to the very old stuff like Ella Fitzgerald or Hank Williams, that was real talent. And then the 60’s brought a lot of political lyrics and experimental music like Dylan and the Beatles. The early 70’s had real “rock & roll” music, and you had Motown running strong through all those years. Then, I think the 80’s brought way too many hair bands, music videos, electronic beats, and voice synthesizers. It wasn’t about the music and talent anymore. Radio continued to decline until today, where it’s all about who and what’s marketable in mainstream music. Now we’re stuck with Gaga, Miley, Katy, Bruno, and Ke$ha every other song on the radio. Do you really think Simon and Garfunkel would have found their music in between any of those songs? Yeah, didn’t think so. But they played it back then! Anyways, that’s my rant; now let’s get to the rest of the countdown.
Songs: The Boxer & 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover (Paul Simon)
49. Sam & Ruby
This is a very good duo that not many people have heard of. Shamefully, I first found them while shopping at Hollister.
Songs: Chillin & Heaven’s My Home
48. Willie Nelson
He’s not the best musician or singer, but there’s just something about Willie that people love. He gets me too!
Songs: Always on my mind & Maria (Shut up and kiss me)
47. Dierks Bentley
I have been up and down with Dierks during his career. I loved his first album, and then they just seemed to get worse and worse after that . . . until his latest record. It is maybe his best yet. He even worked with two of my other favorites, Miranda Lambert and Chris Thile, on it. He redeemed himself and shot back up on my list.
Songs: Wish it would break & Long trip alone
46. Jimmy Needham
I first heard him while carpooling with a friend from school and was impressed. He is kind of like a Christian-Pop (with some soul) version of Jason Mraz or Eric Hutchinson.
Songs: The Reason I sing & Part the Clouds
45. Langhorne Slim
It kind of takes a while to get used to his voice, but Slim is a great song-writer and passionate musician.
Songs: Worries & So Glad I’m Coming Home
44. Jack Johnson
Sometimes Jack is one of my favorites; and other times, I don’t really care for him. Either way, it’s always hard to make it through a whole album of his without needed something fresh. That’s why he’s just 44.
Songs: Angel & Sitting, Waiting, Wishing
43. Brendan James
Sometimes I wonder, if I was a little more musically talented and driven, what kind of artist I would be. Genres are so subjective or limiting these days, I think it’s better to compare to an artist. I’ve thought about this before, and I think I would be a mix between Amos Lee, Eric Hutchinson, and Brendan James, both in sound and personality. They all have a good balance of playful and introspective song-writing.
Songs: All I Can See & Hero’s Song
42. Bob Dylan
I’ll admit, I get to about the fourth song of Dylan’s in a row, and I can hardly take his voice anymore. However, I cannot deny his impact on music. He was passionate, innovative, and versatile. He proved to the world you didn’t need a traditional voice if you were singing for a meaningful purpose. His poetic and impactful lyrics helped shape a generation; and he set a path for many future artists to follow - many artists that I really like.
Songs: Blowing in the Wind & Don’t think twice, it’s alright
41. David Gray
Until this winter break, I didn’t really appreciate David Gray. I only remembered that “Babylon” song, and for some reason just associated him with Robbie Williams since their songs were popular close together and they were both British. But I saw he toured with Ray Lamontagne last year and decided to look up some of his music during my break. I’m very glad I did because the man has talent and has put out some quality stuff.
Songs: This Year’s Love & The Other Side
40. Incubus
When I want to listen to 90’s/2000’s rock music, this is one of my go-to bands. They actually made me start liking “white people” music again back in junior high school. I love their fusion of hard rock with funk. Everybody loves their album with Drive and Pardon Me, but I think Morning View (not as popular) was their true masterpiece.
Songs: Stellar & Wish You Were Here
39. The Kooks
This is one of a couple artists that Pandora radio introduced me to. Thanks Pandora! I think “She moves in her own way” still holds the record for most plays in a single day on my i-tunes. It was like 40 or 50 something.
Songs: She Moves In Her Own Way & Seaside
38. Grace Potter & the Nocturnals
Potter has been this semester’s top artist. It seems every few months, I find some new artist that I fall in love with, who quickly becomes one of my favorites. I found her music in December, but it took me a month or two to decide whether I liked it. Her voice is awesome though. She can do anything from rock to country to blues to pop, etc. Heck, she can even do Disney (she sings the main song for Tangled).
Songs: Only Love & Medicine (Also, get the Daytrotter free version of Paris, it’s much better)
37. Zac Brown Band
One problem I have with most artists, especially in country, is you can’t trust them. They may have a song that you like, and they catch your attention for a bit; then they release something horrible and you think, “Why’d I ever like them?” But is there a more consistent band/group/artist out there than Brown and Co.? I feel like you can trust them. Everything they’ve put out has been good. No let downs!
Songs: Colder Weather & Whatever it is
36. Garth Brooks
Garth is just classic. There’s not really much I can say about him besides "classic".
Songs: She’s Every Woman & Beaches of Cheyenne
35. Brad Paisley
Paisley is the perfect example of what I mentioned with the Zac Brown Band. You can’t always trust what he’s going to put out. He has made songs that I'll love forever and songs that I can't stand. He has many greats, and then he has songs like “Ticks”. Still, his volume of the ones I like and his sweet guitar skills make him one of my favorite country men.
Songs: Holding on to You & Little Moments
34. Matt Costa
It was Costa’s Pandora station that introduced me to Brett Dennen, The Kooks, The Shins (who Costa sounds eerily similar to by the way), and Dispatch. I’m happy my brother had a few Costa CD’s around when I got back from my mission to introduce me to him.
Songs: Astair & These Arms
33. Ben Harper
Harper doesn’t really have any “blow you away” or “change your life” songs in his repertoire, but he has consistently been putting out quality music across many genres for 2 decades now.
Songs: Steal My Kisses & Walk Away
32. Tevin Campbell
Yes, he is also known as “Powerline”. I loved his music as a young kid and it’s my opinion that he would have been the next Michael Jackson had R&B not changed drastically in the late 90’s and had he not been such a weirdo and got in trouble with some child sex charges . . . Oh wait, maybe he was the next Jackson.
Songs: I’m Ready & Don’t Say Goodbye Girl
31. Michael Jackson
Speaking of Michael, I don’t care how odd he was, there will never be another like him. His music is timeless and his dancing will never be duplicated.
Songs: Human Nature & of course, MAN IN THE MIRROR!
30. Parachute
This may be the best band that has come out in the past 5 years. I just listened to their sophomore album, and it is just as good as the first. That’s not common (see: The Script and One Republic). I also saw them live and they did not disappoint.
Songs: Under Control & What I Know
29. Bearfoot
This is another contemporary bluegrass group - probably less well-known than the Duhks, the Waifs, or the Wailin’ Jennys; but in my opinion, better. Those Canadians really know how to make good bluegrass folk music!
Songs: Before I Go & Time is No Medicine
28. Citizen Cope
I don’t think he has really done much as of late, but I wish he would. His mix of hip-hop, rock, and acoustic sound is awesome! And there's something about his music that mixes well with movies and TV. Check out his wickepedia and you'll be amazed at how many times he's had his songs in those TV and Film.
Songs: D’Artagnans Theme & Sideways
27. Damien Rice
Rice hasn’t really had any good new stuff lately either. I am also upset that he let Lisa Hannigan go too. It was perfect with his calm, yet coarse voice and her strong, yet pretty backing vocals. I’m sure he has some other girl sing for his live shows now, but I liked Lisa. Still, his music is wonderful and never gets old to me.
Songs: Nine Crimes & Cold Water
26. Peter Bradley Adams
I don’t know if there is a better love song writer right now than Adams (e.g. Keep Us, For You, One Picture, Always, etc). His melodies are peaceful, and the words are original and heart-felt. You don’t find that with love songs very often anymore. That’s because most of them are songs of infatuation about someone they like for one night in the club or maybe a year until they get sick of them and move on to the next. But Adams tunes are well-crafted and sincere.
Songs: Those mentioned, & The Longer I Run
25. Miranda Lambert
Not only is she a newlywed to Blue-eyed Blake Shelton, but she is a unique singer, talented song-writer, and a better-than-Taylor-and-Carrie Country Superstar! I’ve always loved Miranda’s style ever since I saw her on Nashville Star in 2003.
Songs: Gunpowder and Lead & Me and Charlie Talking
24. James Morrison
Morrison caught my attention when I got back from my mission in ’07 and heard a couple of his famous songs. Then I kind of forgot about him because I didn’t have a laptop, cd player, or much access to new music for about a year and a half after my mission. But last summer I started getting into Morrison again. He’s a little bit “Poppy”, but he’s got a lot of soul to him and an amazing voice.
Songs: The Only Night & You Make It Real
23. Kalai
I’ve been to a lot of concerts in my life, but no one has had a voice that sounded even better live than recorded but Kalai. He’s not the best performer I’ve ever seen, in fact he’s pretty chill and talks probably more than he sings, but what he could do with his voice and guitar and his overall style won in my book.
Songs: Patience Lies & Divide Me
22. Jim Croce
Of all the premature deaths in the entertainment business, this is one that probably saddens and disappoints me the most (Chris Farley, a close 2nd). He could’ve been bigger than Simon or JT if he would’ve stuck around longer. He was still young and undeveloped as an artist. I would’ve liked to have more, but I’m still happy for his music I do have.
Songs: Operator & Rapid Roy (The Stock Car Boy)
21. Something Corporate
This was my favorite band in high school. I had their every song and went to every show when they came to Vegas. My tastes and behaviors have changed a bit since then, but some music never leaves your soul, and Something Corporate will forever be in there!
Songs: Walking By & Ruthless
50. Simon & Garfunkel
I was thinking recently how there’s no way Simon and Garfunkel would get any radio play these days. And then I thought about how much popular music has declined over the years. If you listen to the very old stuff like Ella Fitzgerald or Hank Williams, that was real talent. And then the 60’s brought a lot of political lyrics and experimental music like Dylan and the Beatles. The early 70’s had real “rock & roll” music, and you had Motown running strong through all those years. Then, I think the 80’s brought way too many hair bands, music videos, electronic beats, and voice synthesizers. It wasn’t about the music and talent anymore. Radio continued to decline until today, where it’s all about who and what’s marketable in mainstream music. Now we’re stuck with Gaga, Miley, Katy, Bruno, and Ke$ha every other song on the radio. Do you really think Simon and Garfunkel would have found their music in between any of those songs? Yeah, didn’t think so. But they played it back then! Anyways, that’s my rant; now let’s get to the rest of the countdown.
Songs: The Boxer & 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover (Paul Simon)
49. Sam & Ruby
This is a very good duo that not many people have heard of. Shamefully, I first found them while shopping at Hollister.
Songs: Chillin & Heaven’s My Home
48. Willie Nelson
He’s not the best musician or singer, but there’s just something about Willie that people love. He gets me too!
Songs: Always on my mind & Maria (Shut up and kiss me)
47. Dierks Bentley
I have been up and down with Dierks during his career. I loved his first album, and then they just seemed to get worse and worse after that . . . until his latest record. It is maybe his best yet. He even worked with two of my other favorites, Miranda Lambert and Chris Thile, on it. He redeemed himself and shot back up on my list.
Songs: Wish it would break & Long trip alone
46. Jimmy Needham
I first heard him while carpooling with a friend from school and was impressed. He is kind of like a Christian-Pop (with some soul) version of Jason Mraz or Eric Hutchinson.
Songs: The Reason I sing & Part the Clouds
45. Langhorne Slim
It kind of takes a while to get used to his voice, but Slim is a great song-writer and passionate musician.
Songs: Worries & So Glad I’m Coming Home
44. Jack Johnson
Sometimes Jack is one of my favorites; and other times, I don’t really care for him. Either way, it’s always hard to make it through a whole album of his without needed something fresh. That’s why he’s just 44.
Songs: Angel & Sitting, Waiting, Wishing
43. Brendan James
Sometimes I wonder, if I was a little more musically talented and driven, what kind of artist I would be. Genres are so subjective or limiting these days, I think it’s better to compare to an artist. I’ve thought about this before, and I think I would be a mix between Amos Lee, Eric Hutchinson, and Brendan James, both in sound and personality. They all have a good balance of playful and introspective song-writing.
Songs: All I Can See & Hero’s Song
42. Bob Dylan
I’ll admit, I get to about the fourth song of Dylan’s in a row, and I can hardly take his voice anymore. However, I cannot deny his impact on music. He was passionate, innovative, and versatile. He proved to the world you didn’t need a traditional voice if you were singing for a meaningful purpose. His poetic and impactful lyrics helped shape a generation; and he set a path for many future artists to follow - many artists that I really like.
Songs: Blowing in the Wind & Don’t think twice, it’s alright
41. David Gray
Until this winter break, I didn’t really appreciate David Gray. I only remembered that “Babylon” song, and for some reason just associated him with Robbie Williams since their songs were popular close together and they were both British. But I saw he toured with Ray Lamontagne last year and decided to look up some of his music during my break. I’m very glad I did because the man has talent and has put out some quality stuff.
Songs: This Year’s Love & The Other Side
40. Incubus
When I want to listen to 90’s/2000’s rock music, this is one of my go-to bands. They actually made me start liking “white people” music again back in junior high school. I love their fusion of hard rock with funk. Everybody loves their album with Drive and Pardon Me, but I think Morning View (not as popular) was their true masterpiece.
Songs: Stellar & Wish You Were Here
39. The Kooks
This is one of a couple artists that Pandora radio introduced me to. Thanks Pandora! I think “She moves in her own way” still holds the record for most plays in a single day on my i-tunes. It was like 40 or 50 something.
Songs: She Moves In Her Own Way & Seaside
38. Grace Potter & the Nocturnals
Potter has been this semester’s top artist. It seems every few months, I find some new artist that I fall in love with, who quickly becomes one of my favorites. I found her music in December, but it took me a month or two to decide whether I liked it. Her voice is awesome though. She can do anything from rock to country to blues to pop, etc. Heck, she can even do Disney (she sings the main song for Tangled).
Songs: Only Love & Medicine (Also, get the Daytrotter free version of Paris, it’s much better)
37. Zac Brown Band
One problem I have with most artists, especially in country, is you can’t trust them. They may have a song that you like, and they catch your attention for a bit; then they release something horrible and you think, “Why’d I ever like them?” But is there a more consistent band/group/artist out there than Brown and Co.? I feel like you can trust them. Everything they’ve put out has been good. No let downs!
Songs: Colder Weather & Whatever it is
36. Garth Brooks
Garth is just classic. There’s not really much I can say about him besides "classic".
Songs: She’s Every Woman & Beaches of Cheyenne
35. Brad Paisley
Paisley is the perfect example of what I mentioned with the Zac Brown Band. You can’t always trust what he’s going to put out. He has made songs that I'll love forever and songs that I can't stand. He has many greats, and then he has songs like “Ticks”. Still, his volume of the ones I like and his sweet guitar skills make him one of my favorite country men.
Songs: Holding on to You & Little Moments
34. Matt Costa
It was Costa’s Pandora station that introduced me to Brett Dennen, The Kooks, The Shins (who Costa sounds eerily similar to by the way), and Dispatch. I’m happy my brother had a few Costa CD’s around when I got back from my mission to introduce me to him.
Songs: Astair & These Arms
33. Ben Harper
Harper doesn’t really have any “blow you away” or “change your life” songs in his repertoire, but he has consistently been putting out quality music across many genres for 2 decades now.
Songs: Steal My Kisses & Walk Away
32. Tevin Campbell
Yes, he is also known as “Powerline”. I loved his music as a young kid and it’s my opinion that he would have been the next Michael Jackson had R&B not changed drastically in the late 90’s and had he not been such a weirdo and got in trouble with some child sex charges . . . Oh wait, maybe he was the next Jackson.
Songs: I’m Ready & Don’t Say Goodbye Girl
31. Michael Jackson
Speaking of Michael, I don’t care how odd he was, there will never be another like him. His music is timeless and his dancing will never be duplicated.
Songs: Human Nature & of course, MAN IN THE MIRROR!
30. Parachute
This may be the best band that has come out in the past 5 years. I just listened to their sophomore album, and it is just as good as the first. That’s not common (see: The Script and One Republic). I also saw them live and they did not disappoint.
Songs: Under Control & What I Know
29. Bearfoot
This is another contemporary bluegrass group - probably less well-known than the Duhks, the Waifs, or the Wailin’ Jennys; but in my opinion, better. Those Canadians really know how to make good bluegrass folk music!
Songs: Before I Go & Time is No Medicine
28. Citizen Cope
I don’t think he has really done much as of late, but I wish he would. His mix of hip-hop, rock, and acoustic sound is awesome! And there's something about his music that mixes well with movies and TV. Check out his wickepedia and you'll be amazed at how many times he's had his songs in those TV and Film.
Songs: D’Artagnans Theme & Sideways
27. Damien Rice
Rice hasn’t really had any good new stuff lately either. I am also upset that he let Lisa Hannigan go too. It was perfect with his calm, yet coarse voice and her strong, yet pretty backing vocals. I’m sure he has some other girl sing for his live shows now, but I liked Lisa. Still, his music is wonderful and never gets old to me.
Songs: Nine Crimes & Cold Water
26. Peter Bradley Adams
I don’t know if there is a better love song writer right now than Adams (e.g. Keep Us, For You, One Picture, Always, etc). His melodies are peaceful, and the words are original and heart-felt. You don’t find that with love songs very often anymore. That’s because most of them are songs of infatuation about someone they like for one night in the club or maybe a year until they get sick of them and move on to the next. But Adams tunes are well-crafted and sincere.
Songs: Those mentioned, & The Longer I Run
25. Miranda Lambert
Not only is she a newlywed to Blue-eyed Blake Shelton, but she is a unique singer, talented song-writer, and a better-than-Taylor-and-Carrie Country Superstar! I’ve always loved Miranda’s style ever since I saw her on Nashville Star in 2003.
Songs: Gunpowder and Lead & Me and Charlie Talking
24. James Morrison
Morrison caught my attention when I got back from my mission in ’07 and heard a couple of his famous songs. Then I kind of forgot about him because I didn’t have a laptop, cd player, or much access to new music for about a year and a half after my mission. But last summer I started getting into Morrison again. He’s a little bit “Poppy”, but he’s got a lot of soul to him and an amazing voice.
Songs: The Only Night & You Make It Real
23. Kalai
I’ve been to a lot of concerts in my life, but no one has had a voice that sounded even better live than recorded but Kalai. He’s not the best performer I’ve ever seen, in fact he’s pretty chill and talks probably more than he sings, but what he could do with his voice and guitar and his overall style won in my book.
Songs: Patience Lies & Divide Me
22. Jim Croce
Of all the premature deaths in the entertainment business, this is one that probably saddens and disappoints me the most (Chris Farley, a close 2nd). He could’ve been bigger than Simon or JT if he would’ve stuck around longer. He was still young and undeveloped as an artist. I would’ve liked to have more, but I’m still happy for his music I do have.
Songs: Operator & Rapid Roy (The Stock Car Boy)
21. Something Corporate
This was my favorite band in high school. I had their every song and went to every show when they came to Vegas. My tastes and behaviors have changed a bit since then, but some music never leaves your soul, and Something Corporate will forever be in there!
Songs: Walking By & Ruthless
Monday, March 28, 2011
#60-51
60. Lifehouse – I don’t really know why I like Lifehouse so much. They aren’t really my style of music, they aren’t super talented, and they don’t really do anything that unique to separate them from other artists. I just seem to like a lot of their songs - enough to have them as high as 60.
Song: Take Me Away
59. Mumford & Sons – This band is really gaining a following now. After first hearing about them through some classmates and then noticing their growing popularity, I thought they were ok but wasn’t that impressed. And then I heard “After the Storm”. I fell in love with the song, it changed my opinion of them entirely, and I too jumped on the bandwagon.
58. Maroon 5 – If it wasn’t for Adam’s occasional immature and loose-moraled lyrics, this band would be even higher. I remember hearing their first album in high school and thinking, “If I ever started a rock band, this is the sound I want.” I still appreciate Levine’s voice and their blend of rock, funk, pop, etc.
Song: Must Get Out (Their best song is “She Will Be Loved”, but everyone knows that one.)
57. Matchbox Twenty – This, again, is one of the bands that take a spot in the list because of their history with me and music. There was a time when Matchbox was in my top ten. They have been slipping ever since though (at least 47 spots). Sorry Rob.
Song: 3 AM
56. Delta Spirit – This band is awesome! Thanks to one of my best music sources, Chaela, for introducing me to them. I love his voice and it matches the lyrics so well. If you like the style of Spoon or White Rabbits, you’ll love Delta Spirit. They’re even better!
Song: People, Turn Around
55. Cyndi Thomson – Her music alone would definitely not get her this high, but it’s more than just what you hear when picking your favorite artists. It’s why they do it, what they stand for, and sometimes how they look. I did think she was pretty when she first released “What I Really Meant to Say”. Then I really liked “I Always Liked that Best”. Then I learned she wrote her own songs. Finally, when I tried to find more music from her and realized she left the industry to focus on family, I was sold. She became and still is one of my favorite female artists. Recently, she released a comeback EP, and it too is pretty darn good!
54. Five for Fighting – Five for Fighting, along with Jack Johnson and Ben Harper, were the artists I seemed to listen to most the first six months after my mission. I think I just needed that calming, soft sound to work me back into secular music again.
Song: I like almost all their songs played on the radio, but check out “Policeman’s Christmas Party”. It’s different from their usual stuff, and you wouldn’t know it unless you had their albums.
53. The Wailin’ Jennys – Bluegrass-Folk music. Soft, acoustic sound. Gentle voices. Splendid harmonies. Creative songwriting. If you’re thinking that seems right up Mitch’s alley… yep, you’re right.
Song: One Voice
52. Sara Watkins & 51. Chris Thile (The Punch Brothers) – These are two of the three members of Nickel Creek, the greatest band ever (The Beatles. Pshh. Whatever.) You will hear plenty about Nickel Creek’s greatness later, but as solo artists these two barely fail to make the top 50. Sara is wonderful, and Thile is no doubt “Beethoven” of the mandolin and a creative genius. I love the punch brothers (Thile’s current ‘alternative bluegrass’ band) too, but I have to leave them out of the top 50. Although they’re still great alone, they’re best together and I wish they’d always stay that way.
Songs: Lord Can You Help Me & I’m Nowhere and You’re Everything
Song: Take Me Away
59. Mumford & Sons – This band is really gaining a following now. After first hearing about them through some classmates and then noticing their growing popularity, I thought they were ok but wasn’t that impressed. And then I heard “After the Storm”. I fell in love with the song, it changed my opinion of them entirely, and I too jumped on the bandwagon.
58. Maroon 5 – If it wasn’t for Adam’s occasional immature and loose-moraled lyrics, this band would be even higher. I remember hearing their first album in high school and thinking, “If I ever started a rock band, this is the sound I want.” I still appreciate Levine’s voice and their blend of rock, funk, pop, etc.
Song: Must Get Out (Their best song is “She Will Be Loved”, but everyone knows that one.)
57. Matchbox Twenty – This, again, is one of the bands that take a spot in the list because of their history with me and music. There was a time when Matchbox was in my top ten. They have been slipping ever since though (at least 47 spots). Sorry Rob.
Song: 3 AM
56. Delta Spirit – This band is awesome! Thanks to one of my best music sources, Chaela, for introducing me to them. I love his voice and it matches the lyrics so well. If you like the style of Spoon or White Rabbits, you’ll love Delta Spirit. They’re even better!
Song: People, Turn Around
55. Cyndi Thomson – Her music alone would definitely not get her this high, but it’s more than just what you hear when picking your favorite artists. It’s why they do it, what they stand for, and sometimes how they look. I did think she was pretty when she first released “What I Really Meant to Say”. Then I really liked “I Always Liked that Best”. Then I learned she wrote her own songs. Finally, when I tried to find more music from her and realized she left the industry to focus on family, I was sold. She became and still is one of my favorite female artists. Recently, she released a comeback EP, and it too is pretty darn good!
54. Five for Fighting – Five for Fighting, along with Jack Johnson and Ben Harper, were the artists I seemed to listen to most the first six months after my mission. I think I just needed that calming, soft sound to work me back into secular music again.
Song: I like almost all their songs played on the radio, but check out “Policeman’s Christmas Party”. It’s different from their usual stuff, and you wouldn’t know it unless you had their albums.
53. The Wailin’ Jennys – Bluegrass-Folk music. Soft, acoustic sound. Gentle voices. Splendid harmonies. Creative songwriting. If you’re thinking that seems right up Mitch’s alley… yep, you’re right.
Song: One Voice
52. Sara Watkins & 51. Chris Thile (The Punch Brothers) – These are two of the three members of Nickel Creek, the greatest band ever (The Beatles. Pshh. Whatever.) You will hear plenty about Nickel Creek’s greatness later, but as solo artists these two barely fail to make the top 50. Sara is wonderful, and Thile is no doubt “Beethoven” of the mandolin and a creative genius. I love the punch brothers (Thile’s current ‘alternative bluegrass’ band) too, but I have to leave them out of the top 50. Although they’re still great alone, they’re best together and I wish they’d always stay that way.
Songs: Lord Can You Help Me & I’m Nowhere and You’re Everything
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
25 More Artists! (85-61)
Well, it has been a while since my last post for two reasons: 1) the adapter plug for my computer with i-tunes broke, and I had to wait a few weeks to receive a new one (thank you Best Buy even though you told me 3-5 days); and 2) just when I got the adapter, life (especially school) decided to get really busy. And although I enjoy it, this of course is not at the top of my priority list. But I couldn’t abandon the idea for good, so this week is a treat… 25 artists to make up for the long delay (and probably future delays).
85. Tupac Shakur
Last post and this one begin with a rapper. However, this will be the last rap/ hip-hop artist you see on the list. Some hip-hop music can be very influential, inventive, and even inspiring, but most rap artists, I believe are the furthest thing from “musicians” there are in the industry. In my opinion, a true musician does it for one of three reasons (or all reasons): 1) to make a difference, 2) to cope with pain (kind of like an escape from the stresses of life) or 3) just a “pure” love of music. One thing I love about the so-called “underground” music scene is you get that with most of the artists. But how many rappers can you name that don’t want to be rich and famous? Tupac wanted that too, but I feel like there was so much more to what he did. He had fun, but he spoke his mind and revealed his heart through his music. He lived in the studio and loved what he did. When you listen to his stuff, you feel like you get to hear a part of him. He was real, he was open, he was sometimes crazy, but he was a “musician”.
Song: Keep Ya Head Up
84. SG Wannabe / (Korean Music)
I don’t think this Korean pop group would really be this high on their own, but I had to put some Korean music on here to represent my mission. So they kind of represent all Korean music at this spot. I don’t listen to many Korean tunes anymore, but a few songs of Wannabe have a special place in my heart.
83. Martina McBride
You got to love her. Not just because she’s a very pretty older lady with some amazing pipes that knows how to sing a strong chorus like no other, but because she’s those things, and she’s stayed surprisingly humble and motherly through it all.
Song: Where would you be? …can’t get as high as she does in my car, but you know I still try!
82. Blind Pilot
This is one of the first folk rock bands that I heard after my mission. Their songs all sound awfully similar, but I like their relaxed style.
Song: One Red Thread
81. One Republic and 80. The Script
These bands are like the same band to me. They got popular about the same time, both just came out with not-as-good sophomore albums, and they have almost the exact same sound that mixes mainly piano rock with pop, hip-hop, and 2000’s punk music. With that being said, I still enjoy listening to both. I like people that mix styles even if they aren’t all styles I highly enjoy.
Songs: Say (All I Need) & The Man Who Can’t Be Moved
79. Spoon
I love this guy’s voice. I wish I had the perfect word to describe it. Croaky, raspy, and whiney all come to mind, so maybe I’ll make up a word: “Crinespy”. Add his voice to unique, solid instrumentals and its “Crinesprilliant!”
Song: In honor of March Madness – “The Underdog”
78. Bon Iver
Speaking of good voices, what Justin Vernon (lead singer) can do with his voice is amazing. It is so melodic, yet you can sense so much pain behind it. He recorded practically the whole first album by himself while in seclusion at a Wisconsin cabin.
Song: Blindsided (or “Skinny Love” if you haven’t heard it before)
77. Dean Fields & 76. Teitur
These two are similar artists. They’re talented singer-songwriters that mix pop, soft rock, and folk. Teitur has gained some fame through movie soundtracks, opening for John Mayer, and being on the back of a Doritos bag; but Dean is so not famous that he actually requested to be my friend on Facebook because he saw I liked his music.
Songs: Half-hearted Apology –DF, & One and Only One - Teitur
75. Dan Fogelberg
This is one of my dad’s favorite artists (along with Bread, Jim Croce, James Taylor, and Paul Simon). As much as I hate to admit it, I think my pops and I would’ve had very similar tastes in music. I think I would have expanded my likes to some more soulful stuff over at Motown and some more experimental jam bands like the Allman Brothers, the Grateful Dead, and Crosby, Stills & Nash. But I know his favorites would have been some of mine too. How do I know, because most of them will be on this list just like Fogelberg.
Song: Same Old Lang Syne
74. Joni Mitchell
This is an artist I’m starting to listen to a lot more ever since I’ve discovered what an inspiration she is to so many of the artists I like. She is the mother of modern folk music with Dylan as the Father.
Song: A Case Of You
73. Johnny Flynn
I found Flynn when I spelled the Syracuse basketball player’s name wrong in a search (his has no “h”). He was something new and introduced me to this new British Folk Rock genre (e.g. Mumford and Sons).
Song: The Box or Kentucky Pill
72. Isaac Russell (RuRu)
Very smart move for him to change his stage name from RuRu. I prefer his real name over a childhood nickname. He is young and released his first CD when he was 16, but his music is anything but childish. He’s just a local Provo kid (son of a BYU music professor is what I’ve heard), but he makes my top 100 because it amazes me every time I hear his songs that he was a 15-16 year old when he wrote them. He may be unknown, but he has some of the best songwriting for his age of anyone I’ve ever heard.
Song: West Virginia
71. Xavier Rudd
Rudd is a very talented multi-instrumentalist, singer, and lyricist from Australia. He came to Utah for a small show when I was up there, but I didn’t know him well then and didn’t go. Poor choice!
Song: Better People
70. Norah Jones
When I stop listening to Norah, she seems to creep down my list and I forget about her. Until I hear her music again and remember how awesome she is. Her newest cd, “Featuring Norah Jones” (a collection of her duets), is definitely on my list of CD’s I need once I get more money.
Song: Not Too Late
69. Johnny Cash
There will never be another Cash. He is definitely one of a kind and cannot be duplicated. Yet he embodies what country music is all about to me: pure story telling through music.
Song: God’s Gonna Cut You Down
68. The Format
This is one of a few bands that take a spot in this list because of what they mean to my history of liking music. My tastes are always evolving, but I feel like you can’t just let go of old stuff that used to mean so much to you. Although, among these bands, the Format is one that I can still listen to quite frequently without getting annoyed.
Song: The Compromise
67. The Duhks & 66. The Waifs
These two bands sound similar. They both mix female and male voices and have a modern bluegrass feel. If you’re wondering what this is, it is kind of blend between indie, bluegrass, and folk. It’s actually one of my favorite styles of music… If you’re interested, I have a bluegrass mix on my I-tunes ready to be burned at anytime. I promise, you’ll love it too.
Songs: Fast Pace World – Duhks, & Rescue – Waifs
65. Rascal Flatts
Say what you want about Rascal Flatts, but there aren’t many more successful groups of the 2000’s. It seems like they always have a current hit song on the radio. Most artists come and go, especially groups, but they’ve stayed around strong for a decade. They’re definitely not where they once were with me and sometimes can get a little cheesy, but I’ll always recognize and enjoy his unique, high voice.
Song: If you don’t know a good Flatts song, something’s wrong with you!
64. The Weepies
I’m running out of time and things to say. Good duo. Good song-writing. Good music.
Song: World spins madly on
63. Justin Nozuka
It’s not always, but sometimes I feel that I like girly music (It’s probably because almost all the compliments I’ve ever gotten on my taste in music have come from females). Its artists like Nozuka where I remember that fact though. Whenever I listen to him, I get the sense that his fans are mostly girls. It may not even be true, I just don’t feel very manly with his music... but I still like it anyway.
Song: Golden Train
62. The Killers
They’ve had their share of good songs and bad songs, but there aren’t many songs in history that are better than “All These Things That I’ve Done” -- in my opinion, of course.
*Yes, and that was just 5 “The…” bands out of the last 7 artists. “The” something always makes a good band name!
61. John Legend
I’ve always been a sucker for Rhythm and Blues. Throw in some actual piano talent and good songwriting, and I’m sold. Thank you, John.
Song: Ordinary People
85. Tupac Shakur
Last post and this one begin with a rapper. However, this will be the last rap/ hip-hop artist you see on the list. Some hip-hop music can be very influential, inventive, and even inspiring, but most rap artists, I believe are the furthest thing from “musicians” there are in the industry. In my opinion, a true musician does it for one of three reasons (or all reasons): 1) to make a difference, 2) to cope with pain (kind of like an escape from the stresses of life) or 3) just a “pure” love of music. One thing I love about the so-called “underground” music scene is you get that with most of the artists. But how many rappers can you name that don’t want to be rich and famous? Tupac wanted that too, but I feel like there was so much more to what he did. He had fun, but he spoke his mind and revealed his heart through his music. He lived in the studio and loved what he did. When you listen to his stuff, you feel like you get to hear a part of him. He was real, he was open, he was sometimes crazy, but he was a “musician”.
Song: Keep Ya Head Up
84. SG Wannabe / (Korean Music)
I don’t think this Korean pop group would really be this high on their own, but I had to put some Korean music on here to represent my mission. So they kind of represent all Korean music at this spot. I don’t listen to many Korean tunes anymore, but a few songs of Wannabe have a special place in my heart.
83. Martina McBride
You got to love her. Not just because she’s a very pretty older lady with some amazing pipes that knows how to sing a strong chorus like no other, but because she’s those things, and she’s stayed surprisingly humble and motherly through it all.
Song: Where would you be? …can’t get as high as she does in my car, but you know I still try!
82. Blind Pilot
This is one of the first folk rock bands that I heard after my mission. Their songs all sound awfully similar, but I like their relaxed style.
Song: One Red Thread
81. One Republic and 80. The Script
These bands are like the same band to me. They got popular about the same time, both just came out with not-as-good sophomore albums, and they have almost the exact same sound that mixes mainly piano rock with pop, hip-hop, and 2000’s punk music. With that being said, I still enjoy listening to both. I like people that mix styles even if they aren’t all styles I highly enjoy.
Songs: Say (All I Need) & The Man Who Can’t Be Moved
79. Spoon
I love this guy’s voice. I wish I had the perfect word to describe it. Croaky, raspy, and whiney all come to mind, so maybe I’ll make up a word: “Crinespy”. Add his voice to unique, solid instrumentals and its “Crinesprilliant!”
Song: In honor of March Madness – “The Underdog”
78. Bon Iver
Speaking of good voices, what Justin Vernon (lead singer) can do with his voice is amazing. It is so melodic, yet you can sense so much pain behind it. He recorded practically the whole first album by himself while in seclusion at a Wisconsin cabin.
Song: Blindsided (or “Skinny Love” if you haven’t heard it before)
77. Dean Fields & 76. Teitur
These two are similar artists. They’re talented singer-songwriters that mix pop, soft rock, and folk. Teitur has gained some fame through movie soundtracks, opening for John Mayer, and being on the back of a Doritos bag; but Dean is so not famous that he actually requested to be my friend on Facebook because he saw I liked his music.
Songs: Half-hearted Apology –DF, & One and Only One - Teitur
75. Dan Fogelberg
This is one of my dad’s favorite artists (along with Bread, Jim Croce, James Taylor, and Paul Simon). As much as I hate to admit it, I think my pops and I would’ve had very similar tastes in music. I think I would have expanded my likes to some more soulful stuff over at Motown and some more experimental jam bands like the Allman Brothers, the Grateful Dead, and Crosby, Stills & Nash. But I know his favorites would have been some of mine too. How do I know, because most of them will be on this list just like Fogelberg.
Song: Same Old Lang Syne
74. Joni Mitchell
This is an artist I’m starting to listen to a lot more ever since I’ve discovered what an inspiration she is to so many of the artists I like. She is the mother of modern folk music with Dylan as the Father.
Song: A Case Of You
73. Johnny Flynn
I found Flynn when I spelled the Syracuse basketball player’s name wrong in a search (his has no “h”). He was something new and introduced me to this new British Folk Rock genre (e.g. Mumford and Sons).
Song: The Box or Kentucky Pill
72. Isaac Russell (RuRu)
Very smart move for him to change his stage name from RuRu. I prefer his real name over a childhood nickname. He is young and released his first CD when he was 16, but his music is anything but childish. He’s just a local Provo kid (son of a BYU music professor is what I’ve heard), but he makes my top 100 because it amazes me every time I hear his songs that he was a 15-16 year old when he wrote them. He may be unknown, but he has some of the best songwriting for his age of anyone I’ve ever heard.
Song: West Virginia
71. Xavier Rudd
Rudd is a very talented multi-instrumentalist, singer, and lyricist from Australia. He came to Utah for a small show when I was up there, but I didn’t know him well then and didn’t go. Poor choice!
Song: Better People
70. Norah Jones
When I stop listening to Norah, she seems to creep down my list and I forget about her. Until I hear her music again and remember how awesome she is. Her newest cd, “Featuring Norah Jones” (a collection of her duets), is definitely on my list of CD’s I need once I get more money.
Song: Not Too Late
69. Johnny Cash
There will never be another Cash. He is definitely one of a kind and cannot be duplicated. Yet he embodies what country music is all about to me: pure story telling through music.
Song: God’s Gonna Cut You Down
68. The Format
This is one of a few bands that take a spot in this list because of what they mean to my history of liking music. My tastes are always evolving, but I feel like you can’t just let go of old stuff that used to mean so much to you. Although, among these bands, the Format is one that I can still listen to quite frequently without getting annoyed.
Song: The Compromise
67. The Duhks & 66. The Waifs
These two bands sound similar. They both mix female and male voices and have a modern bluegrass feel. If you’re wondering what this is, it is kind of blend between indie, bluegrass, and folk. It’s actually one of my favorite styles of music… If you’re interested, I have a bluegrass mix on my I-tunes ready to be burned at anytime. I promise, you’ll love it too.
Songs: Fast Pace World – Duhks, & Rescue – Waifs
65. Rascal Flatts
Say what you want about Rascal Flatts, but there aren’t many more successful groups of the 2000’s. It seems like they always have a current hit song on the radio. Most artists come and go, especially groups, but they’ve stayed around strong for a decade. They’re definitely not where they once were with me and sometimes can get a little cheesy, but I’ll always recognize and enjoy his unique, high voice.
Song: If you don’t know a good Flatts song, something’s wrong with you!
64. The Weepies
I’m running out of time and things to say. Good duo. Good song-writing. Good music.
Song: World spins madly on
63. Justin Nozuka
It’s not always, but sometimes I feel that I like girly music (It’s probably because almost all the compliments I’ve ever gotten on my taste in music have come from females). Its artists like Nozuka where I remember that fact though. Whenever I listen to him, I get the sense that his fans are mostly girls. It may not even be true, I just don’t feel very manly with his music... but I still like it anyway.
Song: Golden Train
62. The Killers
They’ve had their share of good songs and bad songs, but there aren’t many songs in history that are better than “All These Things That I’ve Done” -- in my opinion, of course.
*Yes, and that was just 5 “The…” bands out of the last 7 artists. “The” something always makes a good band name!
61. John Legend
I’ve always been a sucker for Rhythm and Blues. Throw in some actual piano talent and good songwriting, and I’m sold. Thank you, John.
Song: Ordinary People
Saturday, February 5, 2011
100 Artists... Continued!
Well, hopefully any who read last week’s post enjoyed it; I know I enjoyed writing it. Anybody just starting now may be a little lost as to what I’m doing, and they may want to go back and read the previous post first. Also, I decided that taking 20 weeks to write this silly thing wasn’t really what I wanted to do. So I think I will change it to 10 artists per post to get it over with sooner.
Before I continue the countdown, there is one thing. I have heard some complaints that no one had ever even heard of those artists from last week, so they felt a little indifferent about my analysis. And maybe that’s why there were no comments (or maybe people just don’t want to waste their time with my trivial blog, which is understandable). Well, this week should have some more familiar names, and also, I will try to describe any obscure artists a little better so you may see if they would be of interest to you. That was one of the reasons I started this--to introduce people to new music. And of course, the main reason was to appease myself (reference to last post), so whatever...
*Now all of these next 5 artists are similar in that they may not be some of my current favorites, but they made this list because of where I would have had them in the past. So please, don’t be quick to judge my taste in music off these next picks… let me explain myself.
95. Kanye West & 94 Taylor Swift
In this fued, I guess I side with Taylor since she’s got Kanye by a mere one spot on my list. It’s a very difficult choice though; I’m glad to see they’ve since made up… kind of.
Let’s start with Mr. West. He seems to be hit or miss with me. He’s made/said/done some really childish things, and then he’s made/done (I purposefully left out the “said”; there’s a reason he has an album called ‘College Dropout’) some really brilliant things in his career. There was actually a time I would have gotten anything he touched (around the time of American Boy and 808’s…). Now I may check it out, but he doesn’t get me as excited.
–-Song: Jesus Walks – still one of my all time faves
As for Swifty, I usually won’t even check out her new stuff, but she still has a special place in my music memory. When she first broke out was right when I was returning from my mission in 2007. I hadn’t really got back into the music scene yet, and here was this modest, young girl who wrote her own music and actually semi-knew how to play an instrument. Of course, she quickly became one of my favorites. But the modesty (although she is still extremely humble for how big of star she is) and originality soon wore off. Her songs are catchy and she has some talent, but for her to make ‘some odd’ 50 songs now that all sound awfully similar just doesn’t seem to grab my attention anymore.
--Song: Stay Beautiful
93. The old Kenny Chesney
*This will be another long explanation, but I will try to keep the rest short, I promise.
Country music was the first music I remember listening to as a young boy, but I abandoned it for almost all of elementary and middle school. It wasn’t until I discovered Kenny Chesney that I got back into it. He was cool and good looking, and he sang really good songs. I realized country wasn’t all that bad. I thank him for that.
Now, I love country music, but one thing I hate about it is that the business doesn’t give its artists very much freedom. However, the worst thing that ever happened to Kenny was that they let him do what he wanted to do. Once he got a say in his music, there were no more songs like “The Good Stuff”, “I lost It”, “What I Need to Do”, “You Had Me From Hello”, “There Goes My Life”, and “That’s Why I’m Here”. There were new songs that showed the real Kenny: the beach, booze, laziness, and no real life commitments. Well, the old Kenny makes my list, and I try to tell myself the new one doesn’t exist.
--Song: any I just listed
92. Matt Wertz
I haven’t listened to a lot of his stuff lately, and he’s not an artist you will hear me talk about much, but I secretly like him. He was originally in the Christian music scene, but switched over to popular music. He has a nice voice and some catchy, chill tunes.
--Song: The Way I Feel or 5:19, both good
91. Coldplay
There’s not much to say about them. They are very talented and very well-known, which doesn’t happen a lot these days. I’m not a huge fan of their style, but they have some good songs. I still remember when I first heard “yellow” early in high school. I loved it; that was my favorite color back then.
--Song: Fix You (If you already know that one, then try “The Hardest Part”)
90. Ingrid Michaelson & 89 Regina Spektor
Their genre seems to be a new trend in music; kind of this Indie girl pop thing with lots of piano and songs about love and break-ups. There seem to be tons of bands and solo acts with this similar sound. Some more on the Indie side (Tegan & Sara, Imogen Heap, Kate Nash, KT Tunstall, etc), and some more on the pop side (Sara Bareilles, Missy Higgins, A Fine Frenzy, Christina Perry, etc). I could go on and on with artists, in fact, I bet you can name at least a couple aspiring musician friends that are girls and probably fit this genre. Most of them are decent, but these 2 ladies seem to be some of the originators of the style, have a good balance of both the indie and the pop feel, and have prettier voices and more creativity than the rest. Regina beats Ingrid in those last 2 qualities so she gets the nod at 89.
--Ingrid song: The Chain
--Regina song: Eet
88. She & Him
She and Him could fit right in with that Indie girl pop genre, but the “Him” helps separate them a little bit. For those of you who don’t know, this is a duo of Zooey Deschanel (the girl from Elf, Yes-man, and 500 Days of Summer) and M. Ward (a folk artist and talented guitarist). I don’t personally like Ward’s solo stuff much, but with his electric guitar (and background vocals) and Deschanel’s unique lead voice, it comes together near perfect. When their songs come on in the car, even Angela usually says, “I really like her voice.” And to think Zooey started out as an actress and model.
--Song: Lingering Still
87. Marc Broussard
I found his stuff before and wasn’t that impressed, but then I rediscovered him recently and for some reason this time, I am really digging it. He has an unordinary mix of country, soul, and jazz in his voice and music. If this were a billboard chart or Joe Lunardi bracketology, then Chesney and Swift would have an “on the way down” arrow next to their names, and Broussard would definitely have a “on the rise” arrow.
--Song: I discovered this one today actually – Come In from the Cold ... He also does a great version of Al Green's "Love and Happiness"
86. Ray Charles
I’ve always liked Stevie Wonder and some of those other old soulful brothers, but I really didn’t start appreciating Ray until the movie of the same name came out. It was one of those rare films where I actually disliked it while watching it, and then once it was over decided it was a very good movie. The man had some skills and made some timeless music.
--Song: Since we started this post with Kanye, we’ll give you an original that Kanye later remixed – I Got a Woman
Before I continue the countdown, there is one thing. I have heard some complaints that no one had ever even heard of those artists from last week, so they felt a little indifferent about my analysis. And maybe that’s why there were no comments (or maybe people just don’t want to waste their time with my trivial blog, which is understandable). Well, this week should have some more familiar names, and also, I will try to describe any obscure artists a little better so you may see if they would be of interest to you. That was one of the reasons I started this--to introduce people to new music. And of course, the main reason was to appease myself (reference to last post), so whatever...
*Now all of these next 5 artists are similar in that they may not be some of my current favorites, but they made this list because of where I would have had them in the past. So please, don’t be quick to judge my taste in music off these next picks… let me explain myself.
95. Kanye West & 94 Taylor Swift
In this fued, I guess I side with Taylor since she’s got Kanye by a mere one spot on my list. It’s a very difficult choice though; I’m glad to see they’ve since made up… kind of.
Let’s start with Mr. West. He seems to be hit or miss with me. He’s made/said/done some really childish things, and then he’s made/done (I purposefully left out the “said”; there’s a reason he has an album called ‘College Dropout’) some really brilliant things in his career. There was actually a time I would have gotten anything he touched (around the time of American Boy and 808’s…). Now I may check it out, but he doesn’t get me as excited.
–-Song: Jesus Walks – still one of my all time faves
As for Swifty, I usually won’t even check out her new stuff, but she still has a special place in my music memory. When she first broke out was right when I was returning from my mission in 2007. I hadn’t really got back into the music scene yet, and here was this modest, young girl who wrote her own music and actually semi-knew how to play an instrument. Of course, she quickly became one of my favorites. But the modesty (although she is still extremely humble for how big of star she is) and originality soon wore off. Her songs are catchy and she has some talent, but for her to make ‘some odd’ 50 songs now that all sound awfully similar just doesn’t seem to grab my attention anymore.
--Song: Stay Beautiful
93. The old Kenny Chesney
*This will be another long explanation, but I will try to keep the rest short, I promise.
Country music was the first music I remember listening to as a young boy, but I abandoned it for almost all of elementary and middle school. It wasn’t until I discovered Kenny Chesney that I got back into it. He was cool and good looking, and he sang really good songs. I realized country wasn’t all that bad. I thank him for that.
Now, I love country music, but one thing I hate about it is that the business doesn’t give its artists very much freedom. However, the worst thing that ever happened to Kenny was that they let him do what he wanted to do. Once he got a say in his music, there were no more songs like “The Good Stuff”, “I lost It”, “What I Need to Do”, “You Had Me From Hello”, “There Goes My Life”, and “That’s Why I’m Here”. There were new songs that showed the real Kenny: the beach, booze, laziness, and no real life commitments. Well, the old Kenny makes my list, and I try to tell myself the new one doesn’t exist.
--Song: any I just listed
92. Matt Wertz
I haven’t listened to a lot of his stuff lately, and he’s not an artist you will hear me talk about much, but I secretly like him. He was originally in the Christian music scene, but switched over to popular music. He has a nice voice and some catchy, chill tunes.
--Song: The Way I Feel or 5:19, both good
91. Coldplay
There’s not much to say about them. They are very talented and very well-known, which doesn’t happen a lot these days. I’m not a huge fan of their style, but they have some good songs. I still remember when I first heard “yellow” early in high school. I loved it; that was my favorite color back then.
--Song: Fix You (If you already know that one, then try “The Hardest Part”)
90. Ingrid Michaelson & 89 Regina Spektor
Their genre seems to be a new trend in music; kind of this Indie girl pop thing with lots of piano and songs about love and break-ups. There seem to be tons of bands and solo acts with this similar sound. Some more on the Indie side (Tegan & Sara, Imogen Heap, Kate Nash, KT Tunstall, etc), and some more on the pop side (Sara Bareilles, Missy Higgins, A Fine Frenzy, Christina Perry, etc). I could go on and on with artists, in fact, I bet you can name at least a couple aspiring musician friends that are girls and probably fit this genre. Most of them are decent, but these 2 ladies seem to be some of the originators of the style, have a good balance of both the indie and the pop feel, and have prettier voices and more creativity than the rest. Regina beats Ingrid in those last 2 qualities so she gets the nod at 89.
--Ingrid song: The Chain
--Regina song: Eet
88. She & Him
She and Him could fit right in with that Indie girl pop genre, but the “Him” helps separate them a little bit. For those of you who don’t know, this is a duo of Zooey Deschanel (the girl from Elf, Yes-man, and 500 Days of Summer) and M. Ward (a folk artist and talented guitarist). I don’t personally like Ward’s solo stuff much, but with his electric guitar (and background vocals) and Deschanel’s unique lead voice, it comes together near perfect. When their songs come on in the car, even Angela usually says, “I really like her voice.” And to think Zooey started out as an actress and model.
--Song: Lingering Still
87. Marc Broussard
I found his stuff before and wasn’t that impressed, but then I rediscovered him recently and for some reason this time, I am really digging it. He has an unordinary mix of country, soul, and jazz in his voice and music. If this were a billboard chart or Joe Lunardi bracketology, then Chesney and Swift would have an “on the way down” arrow next to their names, and Broussard would definitely have a “on the rise” arrow.
--Song: I discovered this one today actually – Come In from the Cold ... He also does a great version of Al Green's "Love and Happiness"
86. Ray Charles
I’ve always liked Stevie Wonder and some of those other old soulful brothers, but I really didn’t start appreciating Ray until the movie of the same name came out. It was one of those rare films where I actually disliked it while watching it, and then once it was over decided it was a very good movie. The man had some skills and made some timeless music.
--Song: Since we started this post with Kanye, we’ll give you an original that Kanye later remixed – I Got a Woman
Sunday, January 30, 2011
100 Artists You Should Definitely Listen To (a.k.a. my 100 favorite artists)
Anyone who has ever lived with me, or just knows me well, knows that I have two obscure habits in which I choose to spend (or “waste”, but I prefer “spend”) my time. The first is getting lost wandering ESPN for sometimes hours while checking scores, standings, stats, polls, and other interesting things. I’ve been improving with this one lately (unless Bill Simmons posts a worthwhile article – the man can’t write anything that takes less than 20 minutes to read).
I know, probably a lot of guys have this same habit, but my second is a little odder. I love to fiddle with my i-tunes. This isn’t just listening to music or downloading songs, but putting my music into very specific folders and playlists, rating songs, organizing them, ranking artists, burning way too many CD’s, resetting my IPod far too many times, previewing tons of new music, and even researching the artists’ lives.
Over my winter break, after discovering many totally legal and in my mind honest ways to get free music (i.e. Daytrotter, Amazon, e-music free trials with a subsequent cancel, and subscribing to the artist’s newsletter to get free downloads) and also after receiving a hefty sum of i-tunes gift card money for Christmas, I got distracted with another silly project. I first discovered a few more new artists, and then decided to rank all my favorites and spend the rest of my time getting sufficient songs for each of these musicians. Well, I ended up with a very long list of artists and probably more songs than I really need. And it took a whole lot longer than I had planned and included a whole bunch of “you gotta be kidding me” looks and statements from my wonderful wife.
But as I distracted myself from studying this morning and began looking back at the playlist I’d created, I thought, “What a waste! No one will ever see this. … Or will they?” Then the thought came to start up my old blog and make a music blog for friends and family to read. I got really excited and now tonight (yes, I did do some studying today), I will begin my weekly blog revealing the top 100 artists of my liking.
I’ll start with #100 and introduce 5 each week. A lot of these artists most of you probably haven’t heard of (which again, if you know me well, makes me very happy – I like liking things other people don’t), but some, you probably have, at least I hope you have. My wish is that this may spark some of your interests to discover great new music, help you realize that the radio truly stinks (b/c most these songs you’ll never hear on there), and help you understand me a little better (since music means so much to me). …Oh and of course, the main reason I’m doing this, is to justify those many hours wasted this winter. ;)
Lastly, please feel free to post any comments, good or bad. And whoever you may be too; I won’t get weirded out that you read my blog even if I don’t know you that well. Thanks and here it goes.
*First, I do have to give a few honorable mention shout outs - Larkin Poe/ The Lovell Sisters, Tracy Chapman, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, Bill Withers, Justin Timberlake, Vampire Weekend, Sufjan Stevens, Missy Higgins, & The Greencards. Sorry guys (and gals), you just didn’t make the cut.
100. Nirvana
Believe me, after you hear the other 99, you’ll think, “How the heck does Nirvana fit in with the rest of these?” Well, five words are why … MTV Unplugged in New York. This album alone puts them on my list. Most of you will probably laugh at this statement, but in my opinion, it is one of the best albums/recordings ever put together. You’d have to pay me to sit and listen to another entire album by them, but I could have this one playing all day and not get sick of it. Maybe it’s just my ears, but the emotion and pain heard in these songs is almost unmatched.
--Requested song: Where did you sleep last night
99. Josh Ritter
Ritter is one of those songwriters that the first few times you hear his songs, you think, “What in Sam Goody is this guy singing about?” Then by the third or fourth time you think, “Wait, I think I’m getting this.” Then, the fifth or sixth time you’re finally like, “Wow, where’d he come up with that… but it totally works and I like it!” Ok, maybe that was just my thoughts, and especially with a couple specific songs.
-- song: The Curse
98. Andrew Bird
Actually I used to not really like this artist until I stumbled across a couple of his live performances and realized he was extremely talented. However, with Bird’s lyrics, you have to listen to them like 10 times before you decide to just use your own imagination as to what they could mean. Or I might just be slow when it comes to the abstract, so if you know more about this guy, please inform me. If anything, just ignore the words and listen to his unique instrumentals. Or be like me, and listen to the words trying to hear any unusual science terms where you can say, “Hey, I know what that means.”
--song: The Giant of Illinois/ Anonanimal - can’t decide between the 2, but they’re both weird, and good
97. G. Love (or …& Special Sauce)
Sometimes his music isn’t the most thoughtful thing ever, but I love how he incorporates many genres into what he does. In my opinion, he’s like a poor-man’s Citizen Cope (who I will mention later). He moved ahead of Ritter and Bird only because I recently found out he worked with the Avett Bros. (who I will also mention later) on his upcoming album - you can read about it and hear new stuff on his site.
--song: Sunshine
96. Grant-Lee Phillips
He’s an older singer-songwriter that has a unique style and smooth voice. I first found out about Phillips when I was looking at i-tunes 2009 year in review page and his ‘Little Moon’ was on there as one of the albums of the year. So maybe you’ve heard of him too; but then again, probably not, because you’re not like me and waste (I mean "spend") hours doing weird things on i-tunes. Oh well!
--song: Older Now
…more to come….
I know, probably a lot of guys have this same habit, but my second is a little odder. I love to fiddle with my i-tunes. This isn’t just listening to music or downloading songs, but putting my music into very specific folders and playlists, rating songs, organizing them, ranking artists, burning way too many CD’s, resetting my IPod far too many times, previewing tons of new music, and even researching the artists’ lives.
Over my winter break, after discovering many totally legal and in my mind honest ways to get free music (i.e. Daytrotter, Amazon, e-music free trials with a subsequent cancel, and subscribing to the artist’s newsletter to get free downloads) and also after receiving a hefty sum of i-tunes gift card money for Christmas, I got distracted with another silly project. I first discovered a few more new artists, and then decided to rank all my favorites and spend the rest of my time getting sufficient songs for each of these musicians. Well, I ended up with a very long list of artists and probably more songs than I really need. And it took a whole lot longer than I had planned and included a whole bunch of “you gotta be kidding me” looks and statements from my wonderful wife.
But as I distracted myself from studying this morning and began looking back at the playlist I’d created, I thought, “What a waste! No one will ever see this. … Or will they?” Then the thought came to start up my old blog and make a music blog for friends and family to read. I got really excited and now tonight (yes, I did do some studying today), I will begin my weekly blog revealing the top 100 artists of my liking.
I’ll start with #100 and introduce 5 each week. A lot of these artists most of you probably haven’t heard of (which again, if you know me well, makes me very happy – I like liking things other people don’t), but some, you probably have, at least I hope you have. My wish is that this may spark some of your interests to discover great new music, help you realize that the radio truly stinks (b/c most these songs you’ll never hear on there), and help you understand me a little better (since music means so much to me). …Oh and of course, the main reason I’m doing this, is to justify those many hours wasted this winter. ;)
Lastly, please feel free to post any comments, good or bad. And whoever you may be too; I won’t get weirded out that you read my blog even if I don’t know you that well. Thanks and here it goes.
*First, I do have to give a few honorable mention shout outs - Larkin Poe/ The Lovell Sisters, Tracy Chapman, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, Bill Withers, Justin Timberlake, Vampire Weekend, Sufjan Stevens, Missy Higgins, & The Greencards. Sorry guys (and gals), you just didn’t make the cut.
100. Nirvana
Believe me, after you hear the other 99, you’ll think, “How the heck does Nirvana fit in with the rest of these?” Well, five words are why … MTV Unplugged in New York. This album alone puts them on my list. Most of you will probably laugh at this statement, but in my opinion, it is one of the best albums/recordings ever put together. You’d have to pay me to sit and listen to another entire album by them, but I could have this one playing all day and not get sick of it. Maybe it’s just my ears, but the emotion and pain heard in these songs is almost unmatched.
--Requested song: Where did you sleep last night
99. Josh Ritter
Ritter is one of those songwriters that the first few times you hear his songs, you think, “What in Sam Goody is this guy singing about?” Then by the third or fourth time you think, “Wait, I think I’m getting this.” Then, the fifth or sixth time you’re finally like, “Wow, where’d he come up with that… but it totally works and I like it!” Ok, maybe that was just my thoughts, and especially with a couple specific songs.
-- song: The Curse
98. Andrew Bird
Actually I used to not really like this artist until I stumbled across a couple of his live performances and realized he was extremely talented. However, with Bird’s lyrics, you have to listen to them like 10 times before you decide to just use your own imagination as to what they could mean. Or I might just be slow when it comes to the abstract, so if you know more about this guy, please inform me. If anything, just ignore the words and listen to his unique instrumentals. Or be like me, and listen to the words trying to hear any unusual science terms where you can say, “Hey, I know what that means.”
--song: The Giant of Illinois/ Anonanimal - can’t decide between the 2, but they’re both weird, and good
97. G. Love (or …& Special Sauce)
Sometimes his music isn’t the most thoughtful thing ever, but I love how he incorporates many genres into what he does. In my opinion, he’s like a poor-man’s Citizen Cope (who I will mention later). He moved ahead of Ritter and Bird only because I recently found out he worked with the Avett Bros. (who I will also mention later) on his upcoming album - you can read about it and hear new stuff on his site.
--song: Sunshine
96. Grant-Lee Phillips
He’s an older singer-songwriter that has a unique style and smooth voice. I first found out about Phillips when I was looking at i-tunes 2009 year in review page and his ‘Little Moon’ was on there as one of the albums of the year. So maybe you’ve heard of him too; but then again, probably not, because you’re not like me and waste (I mean "spend") hours doing weird things on i-tunes. Oh well!
--song: Older Now
…more to come….
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