So we are finally to the final 34 songs in my playlist entitled "The Epitomy of Mixes". I have counted down 67 songs that I drunkenly put on this list and overall I will say that I'm very pleased with this list. Although don't be too surprised if I do a sober remastered version of this list. And now that I have Spotify (thank you Justin and Dave), I'm also going to convert these into playlists on that and post it on facebook. Or maybe not.
So there are only two artists that shouldn't have made this list but that is what happens when you quickly make a list (while intoxicated) and try to cram it all on there. I definitely should have gone back and made adjustments but I think that would have kind of defeated the purpose. The two people who shouldn't have made this list are D'Angelo and New Edition. While I love some N.E. I picked one of their weaker songs. As for D'Angleo... who the hell knows what I was thinking. Oh and somehow Blackstreet makes two appearances which = :-(
Also I have noticed that when I shuffled the list to give it a great random feel, it took like 5 or 6 hip-hop songs and lumped them at the bottom. So the bottom of the list isn't as diverse as I would like to be.
So lets cut the crap and get right down to it. The final 34 songs of my 101 "The Epitomy of Mixes" list starts with...
68. Unbelievable - The Notorious B.I.G
69. The Day I Tried To Live - Soundgarden
70. History - Tenacious D
71. Mind Eraser, No Chaser - Them Crooked Vultures
72. 10,000 Days (Wings Part II) - Tool
73. No Diggity - Blackstreet feat. Dr. Dre
74. The Influence - Jurassic 5
75. Santeria - Sublime
76. Strangled - Snake River Conspiracy
77. Me And Those Dreamin' Eyes Of Mine - D'Angelo
78. It's So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday - Boyz II Men (Beatles Cover)
79. The Greatest View - Silverchair
80. Paranoid Android - Radiohead
81. Imagine - John Lennon
82. Comfortably Numb - Pink Floyd
83. Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen
84. Planet Of The Apes - Mindless Self Indulgence
85. Bathwater - No Doubt
86. N.E. Heartbreak - New Edition
87. Living For The City - Stevie Wonder
88. Rope - Foo Fighters
89. Make Some Noise - Beastie Boys
90. Mr. Blue Sky - Electric Light Orchestra
91. Universal Mind Control - Common
92. Flesh Of My Flesh, Blood Of My Blood
93. The City Is Mine - Jay-Z feat. Blackstreet
94. Kokomo - The Beach Boys
95. Cherchez La Ghost - Ghostface Killah
96. I'm Illy - T.I.
97. Wasted - Ludacris
98. Otis - Jay-Z & Kanye West
99. How To Love - Lil' Wayne
100. I'm On Everything - Bad Meets Evil (Eminem & Royce Da 5'9")
101. Pot of Gold - Game feat. Chris Brown
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Episode V - Mistakes
Okay so I did a little reviewing after I posted my list. What I realized is that when you are intoxicated you make very rash decisions when it comes to music. So while the first like 33 songs are amazing and I wouldn't change a thing about them... I find that as the list progresses, there are songs that I really wish weren't on this list.
For example as much as I might enjoy 'De-Luxe' by Lush, it should't be on my playlist of all playlist. Also since I'm more coherent, I can explain that some artists I only have one song from. So please don't expect anything other than 'True' from Spandau Ballet. What I tried to do is pick some fantastic songs from awesome artists. What might happen is finding some okay songs from some lame mediocre people.
Either way I could give two shits because this is my playlist and I can do whatever the fuck I want to. So if you think for two seconds it will be edited you can hop on the nearest fuck-stick. While I do second guess some of these choices, I made this list while I was half in the bag and didn't change a single song on the list. Every song I own, bar left over shit from an ex, serves a purpose. So whether they are good or bad, they deserve to be there.
So if you don't like a song or think it should be replaced by another, you can keep that shit for your blog. My blog is about my songs and how they managed to somehow creep into my list and life.
Side note: While I appreciate it's awesomeness, I really don't want Free Bird to be on my list. But its there so "let it be".
If you read this Justin, there is zero Yanni :(
This is 34-67
34. Just a Gigolo - David Lee Roth
35. Hip-Hop - Dead Prez
36. Tears in Heaven - Eric Clapton
37. Never Can Say Goodbye - The Jackson 5
38. It Was a Good Day - Ice Cube
39. Hello - Lionel Richie
40. Folsom Prison Blues - Johnny Cash
41. De-Luxe - Lush
42. Victory - P. Diddy and the Family
43. Shut Em Down - Onyx feat. DMX
44. No One Knows - Queens of the Stone Age
45. Georgia on My Mind - Ray Charles
46. Fight the Power - Public Enemy
47. Better Man - Pearl Jam
48. True - Spandau Ballet
49. The Next Movement - The Roots
50. Yakity Yak - The Coasters
51. Runnin' (Dying to Live) - 2Pac & The Notorious B.I.G
52. Use Me - Bill Withers
53. Cochise - Audioslave
54. November Rain - Guns N' Roses
55. More Than Words - Extreme
56. Home Sweet Home - Motley Crue
57. Free Bird - Lynyrd Skynyrd
58. Cry Now - Obie Trice
59. Jessie's Girl - Rick Springfield
60. No One Like You - Scorpions
61. Dear Prudence - The Beatles
62. Dreamgirl - The Lonely Island fat. Norah Jones
63. Renagade - Jay-Z feat. Eminem
64. Senorita - Justin Timerlake
65. Ex-Factor - Lauryn Hill
66. P.Y.T. [Pretty Young Thing] - Michael Jackson
67. Uprising - Muse
*Obie Trice, Lush, Oynx and Justin Timberlake should have been taken off the list but it wasn't edited once so you live and you learn. Fuck it!
For example as much as I might enjoy 'De-Luxe' by Lush, it should't be on my playlist of all playlist. Also since I'm more coherent, I can explain that some artists I only have one song from. So please don't expect anything other than 'True' from Spandau Ballet. What I tried to do is pick some fantastic songs from awesome artists. What might happen is finding some okay songs from some lame mediocre people.
Either way I could give two shits because this is my playlist and I can do whatever the fuck I want to. So if you think for two seconds it will be edited you can hop on the nearest fuck-stick. While I do second guess some of these choices, I made this list while I was half in the bag and didn't change a single song on the list. Every song I own, bar left over shit from an ex, serves a purpose. So whether they are good or bad, they deserve to be there.
So if you don't like a song or think it should be replaced by another, you can keep that shit for your blog. My blog is about my songs and how they managed to somehow creep into my list and life.
Side note: While I appreciate it's awesomeness, I really don't want Free Bird to be on my list. But its there so "let it be".
If you read this Justin, there is zero Yanni :(
This is 34-67
34. Just a Gigolo - David Lee Roth
35. Hip-Hop - Dead Prez
36. Tears in Heaven - Eric Clapton
37. Never Can Say Goodbye - The Jackson 5
38. It Was a Good Day - Ice Cube
39. Hello - Lionel Richie
40. Folsom Prison Blues - Johnny Cash
41. De-Luxe - Lush
42. Victory - P. Diddy and the Family
43. Shut Em Down - Onyx feat. DMX
44. No One Knows - Queens of the Stone Age
45. Georgia on My Mind - Ray Charles
46. Fight the Power - Public Enemy
47. Better Man - Pearl Jam
48. True - Spandau Ballet
49. The Next Movement - The Roots
50. Yakity Yak - The Coasters
51. Runnin' (Dying to Live) - 2Pac & The Notorious B.I.G
52. Use Me - Bill Withers
53. Cochise - Audioslave
54. November Rain - Guns N' Roses
55. More Than Words - Extreme
56. Home Sweet Home - Motley Crue
57. Free Bird - Lynyrd Skynyrd
58. Cry Now - Obie Trice
59. Jessie's Girl - Rick Springfield
60. No One Like You - Scorpions
61. Dear Prudence - The Beatles
62. Dreamgirl - The Lonely Island fat. Norah Jones
63. Renagade - Jay-Z feat. Eminem
64. Senorita - Justin Timerlake
65. Ex-Factor - Lauryn Hill
66. P.Y.T. [Pretty Young Thing] - Michael Jackson
67. Uprising - Muse
*Obie Trice, Lush, Oynx and Justin Timberlake should have been taken off the list but it wasn't edited once so you live and you learn. Fuck it!
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Episode IV - It Begins
Okay so I received a mixtape from my dear friend David Banker and it had some incredible songs. Honestly it inspired me to create what I have deemed as "The Epitomy of Mixes". Not only do I understand that I misspelled "epitome" but I recognize that my title for this blog is misleading. Sorry Star Wars fans, these are all about music.
What I have noticed over the past couple of years is that people will say "oh yeah man, I'm into all kinds of music". They are absolutely full of shit. While there are literally only two genres of music that I steer clear of (house/techno and country), I generally can listen to anything. What I hate is people who say they love music in general but don't have appreciation genres they don't particularly like. If you say you love music as a whole, you should mean that. Obviously you are entitled to not like songs/artists/genres but when you make a statement like that, you better have a Justin Jewell type of appreciation for music.
A prime example is when I lived in Radford and for years I kept hearing people say that they loved all music but hated rap/hip hop/or whatever the fuck its called now. I thought it was hilarious because I never pretended to like anything but rap and R&B when I first got to Radford. I mean I thought it was a bit ridiculous that people were saying "well its not even music". I didn't really have any arguments as I was a novice to discussing music. Some of my dearest friends didn't like rap for the longest time. Now when I say rap, its like saying rock. There are so many different levels and genres. Just because you like The Beatles doesn't mean you have to like Nickelback. And vice versa. While Nickelback sucks I do not shit on people for liking them. I just use the band as a joke because personally I think they have about as much talent as Reese Witherspoon. Just like if you like The Roots, it doesn't mean you have to listen to Big Sean and the rest of those white-stains that are all over the radio right now. You like NWA, Notorious B.I.G, Scarface? Then don't listen to Wocka Flocka Flame. He's a turd in the punch bowl of my musical existence!
I've gotten way off topic but that is what drinking does to you. What I plan to do with this series of writings is to briefly cover a few musical points and make a few notes while listing the 101 songs that I have put together (in one night, without repeating artists), to created what I think is a fucking awesome playlist of bonerific songs.
Oh and order of songs has been altered because I made the playlist in itunes and I accidentally shuffled everything. Suck on that Bill Gates!!!!
So without further adieu, I give you song 1 - 33:
1. Hungry Like a Wolf - Duran Duran
2. Wish - Nine Inch Nails
3. Patiently Waiting - 50 Cent feat. Eminem (THIS IS DEDICATED TO WADE)
4. Devil's Haircut - Beck
5. The Wind Cries Mary - Jimi Hendrix
6. I Won't Back Down - Tom Petty
7. Birdhouse In Your Soul - They Might Be Giants
8. You're The Best - Karate Kid 1 Soundtrack (FUCK YEAH)
9. Coma White - Marilyn Manson
10. Interstate Love Song - Stone Temple Pilots
11. Here Comes the Rooster - Alice in Chains
12. You Got What I Need - Biz Markie
13. The Final Countdown - Europe
14. My Own Worst Enemy - Lit
15. Mama Said Knock You Out - LL Cool J
16. Shook Ones Part II - Mobb Deep
17. Rewind - Nas
18. I Get Around - Tupac Shakur
19. Murder Was the Case - Snoop Doggy Dogg
20. Dirty Hole - VAST
21. Safety Dance - Men Without Hats
22. One - Metallica
23. Trip Like I Do - Filter feat. Crystal Method (Noj's NWA-Trinkle character came out to this song)
24. Drain You - Nirvana
25. Domo Arigato Mr. Roboto - Styx
26. Amber - 311
27. Big Bang - Aesop Rock (Thank you Al)
28. It's Tricky - Run-D.M.C
29. House of the Rising Sun - The Animals
30. Deception - Blackalicious
31. Shoot to Kill - O.G.C (one of my NWA-Trinkle characters "Logan Gable" came out to this song)
32. Out of Touch - Hall & Oates
33. Buffalo Soldier - Bob Marley & The Wailers
What I have noticed over the past couple of years is that people will say "oh yeah man, I'm into all kinds of music". They are absolutely full of shit. While there are literally only two genres of music that I steer clear of (house/techno and country), I generally can listen to anything. What I hate is people who say they love music in general but don't have appreciation genres they don't particularly like. If you say you love music as a whole, you should mean that. Obviously you are entitled to not like songs/artists/genres but when you make a statement like that, you better have a Justin Jewell type of appreciation for music.
A prime example is when I lived in Radford and for years I kept hearing people say that they loved all music but hated rap/hip hop/or whatever the fuck its called now. I thought it was hilarious because I never pretended to like anything but rap and R&B when I first got to Radford. I mean I thought it was a bit ridiculous that people were saying "well its not even music". I didn't really have any arguments as I was a novice to discussing music. Some of my dearest friends didn't like rap for the longest time. Now when I say rap, its like saying rock. There are so many different levels and genres. Just because you like The Beatles doesn't mean you have to like Nickelback. And vice versa. While Nickelback sucks I do not shit on people for liking them. I just use the band as a joke because personally I think they have about as much talent as Reese Witherspoon. Just like if you like The Roots, it doesn't mean you have to listen to Big Sean and the rest of those white-stains that are all over the radio right now. You like NWA, Notorious B.I.G, Scarface? Then don't listen to Wocka Flocka Flame. He's a turd in the punch bowl of my musical existence!
I've gotten way off topic but that is what drinking does to you. What I plan to do with this series of writings is to briefly cover a few musical points and make a few notes while listing the 101 songs that I have put together (in one night, without repeating artists), to created what I think is a fucking awesome playlist of bonerific songs.
Oh and order of songs has been altered because I made the playlist in itunes and I accidentally shuffled everything. Suck on that Bill Gates!!!!
So without further adieu, I give you song 1 - 33:
1. Hungry Like a Wolf - Duran Duran
2. Wish - Nine Inch Nails
3. Patiently Waiting - 50 Cent feat. Eminem (THIS IS DEDICATED TO WADE)
4. Devil's Haircut - Beck
5. The Wind Cries Mary - Jimi Hendrix
6. I Won't Back Down - Tom Petty
7. Birdhouse In Your Soul - They Might Be Giants
8. You're The Best - Karate Kid 1 Soundtrack (FUCK YEAH)
9. Coma White - Marilyn Manson
10. Interstate Love Song - Stone Temple Pilots
11. Here Comes the Rooster - Alice in Chains
12. You Got What I Need - Biz Markie
13. The Final Countdown - Europe
14. My Own Worst Enemy - Lit
15. Mama Said Knock You Out - LL Cool J
16. Shook Ones Part II - Mobb Deep
17. Rewind - Nas
18. I Get Around - Tupac Shakur
19. Murder Was the Case - Snoop Doggy Dogg
20. Dirty Hole - VAST
21. Safety Dance - Men Without Hats
22. One - Metallica
23. Trip Like I Do - Filter feat. Crystal Method (Noj's NWA-Trinkle character came out to this song)
24. Drain You - Nirvana
25. Domo Arigato Mr. Roboto - Styx
26. Amber - 311
27. Big Bang - Aesop Rock (Thank you Al)
28. It's Tricky - Run-D.M.C
29. House of the Rising Sun - The Animals
30. Deception - Blackalicious
31. Shoot to Kill - O.G.C (one of my NWA-Trinkle characters "Logan Gable" came out to this song)
32. Out of Touch - Hall & Oates
33. Buffalo Soldier - Bob Marley & The Wailers
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Big Coz
"What the deal playboy, just rest your soul
I be holding it down yo still love the dough
Got these ladies on the cock you know how we go
Got the whole world on lock down you know how we flow
Don't worry about Brooklyn I continue to flame
Therefore a world with amnesia won't forget your name
You held it down for long enough, let me take those reigns
And just like your spirit the commission remains" - Jay-Z (The City is Mine)
It has taken me a little big longer to write this than I had originally planned. Trying to force words out and express your feelings on the passing of a dear friend just isn't the route to go. I know a lot of other people have fond memories and have posted them on facebook but I kind of wanted my own outlet. Something that was just from me and straight from the heart.
The first thing that pops to mind is a memory of the two of us laughing out loud for about 30 minutes in Walmart when we were both trying to buy a gift for a friend. We just kept laughing and laughing and it was incredible. I also remember us going to a store and I kept asking him why he was buying a picnic basket for a wedding. He was like "who has a problem with a picnic basket?". That was Coz. He was optimistic, he was positive and he always looked on the brighter side of things. What made him even more special was that he was always looking out for the best interest of his friends.
Its tough to really think about all the times we shared but another one is him always dragging me out to Joe's Diner in Radford after a party. I was too drunk and too antsy to be there and the food would take forever. I would always complain and moan about having to get up early but yet, every time he asked me to go I would be there without hesitation.
The thing about it is, he wasn't just a great guy. We wasn't just a funny guy. He was an incredible human being and that is what gets me the most. He was literally one of the first true friends I made when I was in college and while we might have lost touch over the past couple of years that bond remained the same. Coz did everything in his power to lift people up and help them see the brighter side of things. He also tried to help when it seemed like things were hopeless, he was there with a smile and an off-topic joke.
To quote DMX "that was my mans and them". He was my partner and now that he is gone, its just a reminder of how strong I bond with people. I hold friendship up on a pedestal and those who make it into that category really have to fuck things up to break that bond. I hadn't spoke to Coz in quite sometime but the moment I got that phone call my heart literally broke.
I know he wouldn't want me to be doing this right now. He'd want me to just be happy with the times we had and remember all the laughs we shared. That doesn't change the fact that my homeboy isn't here anymore.
As much as I would love to sit here and rattle off story after story, its hard doing this. I guess the point of all of this is just for me to touch on the subject. When you have someone incredible in your life, you need to cherish them. Life is short and you need to take every opportunity you have to show love to those who matter. I don't think I'll ever get over his passing but I look back on all the words of wisdom he gave me and that helps. He did everything in his power to show everyone love. I say we keep that tradition going.
On that note, I'll just wrap this up by saying Nicassio "Coz" Johnson was an amazing human being who will be missed. But its important not to dwell on the loss. We should just keep in mind all the great times, laughs and experiences we shared with him. I don't think he would want anyone crying over him. That's just how selfless he was.
One of the most touching things he ever did was simply write a rap lyric up on my board one day when he heard that I was having a rough day. I'll end my tribute to him with that same lyric.
"Place yourself in the shoes of two felons and tell me you won't ball every chance you get." - Jay-Z feat. The Notorious B.I.G (Brooklyn's Finest)
RIP COZ
Never forgotten, Always in my heart
I be holding it down yo still love the dough
Got these ladies on the cock you know how we go
Got the whole world on lock down you know how we flow
Don't worry about Brooklyn I continue to flame
Therefore a world with amnesia won't forget your name
You held it down for long enough, let me take those reigns
And just like your spirit the commission remains" - Jay-Z (The City is Mine)
It has taken me a little big longer to write this than I had originally planned. Trying to force words out and express your feelings on the passing of a dear friend just isn't the route to go. I know a lot of other people have fond memories and have posted them on facebook but I kind of wanted my own outlet. Something that was just from me and straight from the heart.
The first thing that pops to mind is a memory of the two of us laughing out loud for about 30 minutes in Walmart when we were both trying to buy a gift for a friend. We just kept laughing and laughing and it was incredible. I also remember us going to a store and I kept asking him why he was buying a picnic basket for a wedding. He was like "who has a problem with a picnic basket?". That was Coz. He was optimistic, he was positive and he always looked on the brighter side of things. What made him even more special was that he was always looking out for the best interest of his friends.
Its tough to really think about all the times we shared but another one is him always dragging me out to Joe's Diner in Radford after a party. I was too drunk and too antsy to be there and the food would take forever. I would always complain and moan about having to get up early but yet, every time he asked me to go I would be there without hesitation.
The thing about it is, he wasn't just a great guy. We wasn't just a funny guy. He was an incredible human being and that is what gets me the most. He was literally one of the first true friends I made when I was in college and while we might have lost touch over the past couple of years that bond remained the same. Coz did everything in his power to lift people up and help them see the brighter side of things. He also tried to help when it seemed like things were hopeless, he was there with a smile and an off-topic joke.
To quote DMX "that was my mans and them". He was my partner and now that he is gone, its just a reminder of how strong I bond with people. I hold friendship up on a pedestal and those who make it into that category really have to fuck things up to break that bond. I hadn't spoke to Coz in quite sometime but the moment I got that phone call my heart literally broke.
I know he wouldn't want me to be doing this right now. He'd want me to just be happy with the times we had and remember all the laughs we shared. That doesn't change the fact that my homeboy isn't here anymore.
As much as I would love to sit here and rattle off story after story, its hard doing this. I guess the point of all of this is just for me to touch on the subject. When you have someone incredible in your life, you need to cherish them. Life is short and you need to take every opportunity you have to show love to those who matter. I don't think I'll ever get over his passing but I look back on all the words of wisdom he gave me and that helps. He did everything in his power to show everyone love. I say we keep that tradition going.
On that note, I'll just wrap this up by saying Nicassio "Coz" Johnson was an amazing human being who will be missed. But its important not to dwell on the loss. We should just keep in mind all the great times, laughs and experiences we shared with him. I don't think he would want anyone crying over him. That's just how selfless he was.
One of the most touching things he ever did was simply write a rap lyric up on my board one day when he heard that I was having a rough day. I'll end my tribute to him with that same lyric.
"Place yourself in the shoes of two felons and tell me you won't ball every chance you get." - Jay-Z feat. The Notorious B.I.G (Brooklyn's Finest)
RIP COZ
Never forgotten, Always in my heart
Monday, April 18, 2011
Random Music Thoughts
I wanted to post something about music but I realized quickly that I didn't have the patience to sit down and write a lot about music. I mean what can I say that hasn't already been said about great songs, song writers, etc.?
What I decided to do instead was pick a couple of songs at random from a playlist I have called "Hype Music". Don't let the name of the playlist fool you. It isn't a bunch of music that gets me ready for a fight or anything of that nature. Its more of a playlist to kind of lift me up on my walk to walk. Whenever I need that extra boost, I go to this playlist.
What I did was put the playlist on shuffle and just write a little something about the songs that come up. With that being said, let's get our music on!
"One" by Metallica - I can't really say when I got into Metallica. For those of you who know my music history, I wasn't into anything but hip-hop before I got to college in 2000. I had heard songs of course but didn't really have any musical appreciation for anything bar Dr. Dre and DMX. So I would say that thanks to Matt I heard a lot of Metallica and other harder stuff. When I think of Metallica the first song that pops in my head is One. Its just epic and I love the solos towards the end. It definitely gets me going when I hear that chopper at the very beginning! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WM8bTdBs-cw)
"Monkey Wrench" by Foo Fighters - I remember hearing their first single "Big Me" and loving the song. It came out when I wasn't into rock or anything like that so the song really stood out. I didn't bother to check out any of their other songs until I was living with Dave, Noj and Matt. Noj had a lot of Foo Fighters songs and this one just called out to me. It isn't their best song and it isn't my favorite. My favorite is probably "Stranger Things Have Happened". Not their best but I just love that song. Monkey Wrench is heavy and the music video is solid gold. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7rCNiiNPxA)
"Cocaine and Toupees" by Mindless Self Indulgence - Dusty can be thanked for forcing me to listen to MSI non-stop. Always liked what I heard but was never that into them. Recently I rediscovered 'Frankenstein Girls Will Seem Strangely Sexy' and I love every track of it. MSI isn't everyone's cup of tea, but I think it is just a reflection of how odd my musical tastes can be. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jYsNiShrgQ)
"Shut Em Down" by Onyx feat. DMX - Now I will admit that Onyx isn't exactly the greatest rap trio of all time. They had a mediocre rise with "Slam" but honestly they just didn't have what it takes to stick around. I have a ton of respect for Sticky Fingaz (rapping not acting) for his ridiculous flow. The addition of DMX adds something lacking to this song and since I heard it a long time ago I haven't been able to skip it. Oh and the beat is great! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgTrGfb7bbA)
"No One Knows" by Queens of the Stone Age - I hadn't heard a single song by them until Bradshaw introduced me to 'Songs for the Deaf'. It rocked my 2003/2004 and I still have a copy of the CD to this day. This was the first single off that album and they just rock it. Dave Grohl does drums on the entire album so you know it has to be good. I enjoy all of their stuff but this song just kind of takes me back to rockin' out on a drive to Food Lion to score 40's. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s88r_q7oufE)
"Parabola" by Tool - Going to see Tool was one of the greatest experiences of my life. At that point in time I wasn't really into them as much as everyone else but I didn't want to miss out on that trip. Just about everyone and their mother took to see them perform on the 'Lateralus' tour. After a few years I really got into them and I can proudly say that as of right now they are my favorite band. The ever evolving ensemble wow me at every turn. Parabola in particular does the trick because of how intricate the entire song is. When you pair it up with the mellow and methodical track "Parabol" you have a powerful duo. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiV_ue-PbL4)
"No One Like You" by Scorpions - It wouldn't be me if there wasn't some wicked 80's throwback. I can't say I'm a "huge" Scorpions fan. I think this might be the only song I know. I love it, plain and simple. I think 80's guitar solos were just incredible. They weren't perfect but every rock song in the 80's had one and I just think it is awesome! And you can't beat the solo that starts the song. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YNUu7w-WpU)
"Been a Son" by Nirvana - When I got to college and was introduced to rock and other genres the first band I wanted to listen to was Nirvana. I remember hearing "Smells Like Teen Spirit" when it came out. I was so into Nirvana but I was like 6 years too late. Being completely honest I knew that Kurt Cobain had died but until 2000, I didn't know he was the guy from Nirvana. Shames me to say it but you have to think we didn't talk about Nirvana a lot when listening to DMX. Been a Son is a quick song but I love it. I have no idea what he is talking about but that is Kurt for you. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNYBzSZawGo)
"Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood" by DMX - Hahaha. I just think its funny that he has been mentioned multiple times in this blog and it finally lands on a song of his. Just to clear the record DMX is by no means my favorite rapper. But when talking about music history he is pretty much the starting point of my adult dive into music. His first two albums 'It's Dark and Hell is Hot' and 'Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood' are absolutely incredible. Everything after that goes from meh to bleh. The title track off Flesh of My Flesh is just incredible. I remember rewinding the tape over and over just to try and figure out what one lyric was. This is probably one of my top five DMX songs. That being said, he doesn't get much play from me now. That was a fun time back in 98/99 but I've moved on. Every now again, I have to put him on though. It's a fun way to start the journey to work. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bc0DDCaQzxw)
What better way to end this than with... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHsNLp0Opog)
"Big Poppa" by The Notorious B.I.G - This became a Radford staple but before that it was simply one of my favorite songs. Hands down he is one of the greatest rappers of all time. His flow, persona and attention to detail made him one of the best lyrics in my personal opinion. 'Ready to Die' is probably my favorite hip-hip/rap album of all time. He was a legend and it is a shame his life was ended so abruptly. This song always brings back fond memories. From blasting it at the Dog Pound or just listening to it in my dorm room. I still have to sing along every time it plays. Probably the first song I memorized all the lyrics to intentionally.
I love all kinds of music. From Biggie, Muse, The Beatles, Snake River Conspiracy, Stevie Wonder, one song by Panic at the Disco, MC Hammer, Tears for Fears, Eric Clapton, Earth Wind & Fire, The Roots, Eminem and a host of others.
My personal philosophy is that as long as you enjoy it, you should listen to it. It doesn't matter if you shouldn't like it because of this or that. I know that some people are taken aback when they hear what I listen to. Maybe its because of who I am and how I present myself. All I know is that I love music. Be it hip-hop, metal, hair-metal, or alternative. Listen to what you love and appreciate music in all its gloriousness!
Rock out with whatever you have out!
One
What I decided to do instead was pick a couple of songs at random from a playlist I have called "Hype Music". Don't let the name of the playlist fool you. It isn't a bunch of music that gets me ready for a fight or anything of that nature. Its more of a playlist to kind of lift me up on my walk to walk. Whenever I need that extra boost, I go to this playlist.
What I did was put the playlist on shuffle and just write a little something about the songs that come up. With that being said, let's get our music on!
"One" by Metallica - I can't really say when I got into Metallica. For those of you who know my music history, I wasn't into anything but hip-hop before I got to college in 2000. I had heard songs of course but didn't really have any musical appreciation for anything bar Dr. Dre and DMX. So I would say that thanks to Matt I heard a lot of Metallica and other harder stuff. When I think of Metallica the first song that pops in my head is One. Its just epic and I love the solos towards the end. It definitely gets me going when I hear that chopper at the very beginning! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WM8bTdBs-cw)
"Monkey Wrench" by Foo Fighters - I remember hearing their first single "Big Me" and loving the song. It came out when I wasn't into rock or anything like that so the song really stood out. I didn't bother to check out any of their other songs until I was living with Dave, Noj and Matt. Noj had a lot of Foo Fighters songs and this one just called out to me. It isn't their best song and it isn't my favorite. My favorite is probably "Stranger Things Have Happened". Not their best but I just love that song. Monkey Wrench is heavy and the music video is solid gold. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7rCNiiNPxA)
"Cocaine and Toupees" by Mindless Self Indulgence - Dusty can be thanked for forcing me to listen to MSI non-stop. Always liked what I heard but was never that into them. Recently I rediscovered 'Frankenstein Girls Will Seem Strangely Sexy' and I love every track of it. MSI isn't everyone's cup of tea, but I think it is just a reflection of how odd my musical tastes can be. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jYsNiShrgQ)
"Shut Em Down" by Onyx feat. DMX - Now I will admit that Onyx isn't exactly the greatest rap trio of all time. They had a mediocre rise with "Slam" but honestly they just didn't have what it takes to stick around. I have a ton of respect for Sticky Fingaz (rapping not acting) for his ridiculous flow. The addition of DMX adds something lacking to this song and since I heard it a long time ago I haven't been able to skip it. Oh and the beat is great! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgTrGfb7bbA)
"No One Knows" by Queens of the Stone Age - I hadn't heard a single song by them until Bradshaw introduced me to 'Songs for the Deaf'. It rocked my 2003/2004 and I still have a copy of the CD to this day. This was the first single off that album and they just rock it. Dave Grohl does drums on the entire album so you know it has to be good. I enjoy all of their stuff but this song just kind of takes me back to rockin' out on a drive to Food Lion to score 40's. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s88r_q7oufE)
"Parabola" by Tool - Going to see Tool was one of the greatest experiences of my life. At that point in time I wasn't really into them as much as everyone else but I didn't want to miss out on that trip. Just about everyone and their mother took to see them perform on the 'Lateralus' tour. After a few years I really got into them and I can proudly say that as of right now they are my favorite band. The ever evolving ensemble wow me at every turn. Parabola in particular does the trick because of how intricate the entire song is. When you pair it up with the mellow and methodical track "Parabol" you have a powerful duo. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiV_ue-PbL4)
"No One Like You" by Scorpions - It wouldn't be me if there wasn't some wicked 80's throwback. I can't say I'm a "huge" Scorpions fan. I think this might be the only song I know. I love it, plain and simple. I think 80's guitar solos were just incredible. They weren't perfect but every rock song in the 80's had one and I just think it is awesome! And you can't beat the solo that starts the song. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YNUu7w-WpU)
"Been a Son" by Nirvana - When I got to college and was introduced to rock and other genres the first band I wanted to listen to was Nirvana. I remember hearing "Smells Like Teen Spirit" when it came out. I was so into Nirvana but I was like 6 years too late. Being completely honest I knew that Kurt Cobain had died but until 2000, I didn't know he was the guy from Nirvana. Shames me to say it but you have to think we didn't talk about Nirvana a lot when listening to DMX. Been a Son is a quick song but I love it. I have no idea what he is talking about but that is Kurt for you. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNYBzSZawGo)
"Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood" by DMX - Hahaha. I just think its funny that he has been mentioned multiple times in this blog and it finally lands on a song of his. Just to clear the record DMX is by no means my favorite rapper. But when talking about music history he is pretty much the starting point of my adult dive into music. His first two albums 'It's Dark and Hell is Hot' and 'Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood' are absolutely incredible. Everything after that goes from meh to bleh. The title track off Flesh of My Flesh is just incredible. I remember rewinding the tape over and over just to try and figure out what one lyric was. This is probably one of my top five DMX songs. That being said, he doesn't get much play from me now. That was a fun time back in 98/99 but I've moved on. Every now again, I have to put him on though. It's a fun way to start the journey to work. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bc0DDCaQzxw)
What better way to end this than with... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHsNLp0Opog)
"Big Poppa" by The Notorious B.I.G - This became a Radford staple but before that it was simply one of my favorite songs. Hands down he is one of the greatest rappers of all time. His flow, persona and attention to detail made him one of the best lyrics in my personal opinion. 'Ready to Die' is probably my favorite hip-hip/rap album of all time. He was a legend and it is a shame his life was ended so abruptly. This song always brings back fond memories. From blasting it at the Dog Pound or just listening to it in my dorm room. I still have to sing along every time it plays. Probably the first song I memorized all the lyrics to intentionally.
I love all kinds of music. From Biggie, Muse, The Beatles, Snake River Conspiracy, Stevie Wonder, one song by Panic at the Disco, MC Hammer, Tears for Fears, Eric Clapton, Earth Wind & Fire, The Roots, Eminem and a host of others.
My personal philosophy is that as long as you enjoy it, you should listen to it. It doesn't matter if you shouldn't like it because of this or that. I know that some people are taken aback when they hear what I listen to. Maybe its because of who I am and how I present myself. All I know is that I love music. Be it hip-hop, metal, hair-metal, or alternative. Listen to what you love and appreciate music in all its gloriousness!
Rock out with whatever you have out!
One
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
I Me Me Blog
Didn't really know how long I should wait to really get this thing going. First I want to say that I don't anticipate anyone turning to this for enlightenment or for insight into what makes me tick. This is just a place for me to convey my wildly sporadic/erotic/juvenile/(and a host of other adjective) thoughts.
The title is of course dedicate to one of my favorite (most recently) Beatles song "I Me Mine". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01UipbZL3ww
In case there was any confusion, I have been living in California since August 2010. It was a decision based on happiness. Where I was at with my life in Newport News, simply wasn't acceptable. I didn't like my job, I didn't like the way I was living my life and I really needed a big change. Because of the job market, quitting my previous job and keeping the way too expensive apartment I had wasn't an option. A dear friend offered me safe haven in Cali so I got a ticket, mailed my stuff and came out here.
Fast-forward to now and I'm in a bit of a dilemma. Said roommate is being transfered to Seattle and is leaving in May. I love California and I love the joy it has brought me. I have met some incredible people and I wish to make my life even more awesome by staying. My current backup plan isn't coming through like I would have hoped so I'm faced with either moving or hoping things sort themselves out before May.
That being said, this isn't a pity party just a man being real with those who I dearly trust. It may be the Tequila or Cerveza talking but I know this is the place for me.
With that nonsense out of the way let's get down to brass tax. My musical "RoboCop: The Musical!!!" is currently on its 4th act of 5. I have been writing this now for going on two years. It is one of the greatest things I have ever done and I can't wait to share it with you all. I finally was able to write a ensemble song and it is apparently three pages long. As a bit of insight, I will let you know that I can't remember the plot of the original movie so there is only one scene that is a literal translation. Everything else is what I have come up off the top of my head. I hope it is loved and hated because honestly I was out to make the worse musical ever, excluding the debauchery that apparently is the Spiderman Musical (soon to be followed by the Batman Musical).
On another positive note, I've decided that Robots always... and I mean ALWAYS trump Zombies.
Take care of yourselves and Kip,
One
The title is of course dedicate to one of my favorite (most recently) Beatles song "I Me Mine". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01UipbZL3ww
In case there was any confusion, I have been living in California since August 2010. It was a decision based on happiness. Where I was at with my life in Newport News, simply wasn't acceptable. I didn't like my job, I didn't like the way I was living my life and I really needed a big change. Because of the job market, quitting my previous job and keeping the way too expensive apartment I had wasn't an option. A dear friend offered me safe haven in Cali so I got a ticket, mailed my stuff and came out here.
Fast-forward to now and I'm in a bit of a dilemma. Said roommate is being transfered to Seattle and is leaving in May. I love California and I love the joy it has brought me. I have met some incredible people and I wish to make my life even more awesome by staying. My current backup plan isn't coming through like I would have hoped so I'm faced with either moving or hoping things sort themselves out before May.
That being said, this isn't a pity party just a man being real with those who I dearly trust. It may be the Tequila or Cerveza talking but I know this is the place for me.
With that nonsense out of the way let's get down to brass tax. My musical "RoboCop: The Musical!!!" is currently on its 4th act of 5. I have been writing this now for going on two years. It is one of the greatest things I have ever done and I can't wait to share it with you all. I finally was able to write a ensemble song and it is apparently three pages long. As a bit of insight, I will let you know that I can't remember the plot of the original movie so there is only one scene that is a literal translation. Everything else is what I have come up off the top of my head. I hope it is loved and hated because honestly I was out to make the worse musical ever, excluding the debauchery that apparently is the Spiderman Musical (soon to be followed by the Batman Musical).
On another positive note, I've decided that Robots always... and I mean ALWAYS trump Zombies.
Take care of yourselves and Kip,
One
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Test
This my friends is simply a test. I have decided to convey all of these random thoughts I have into something a little more cohesive. I absolutely enjoy the blogs of Dave, Justin and Garth so I thought I would give this a whirl.
First and foremost this will not be as well written as theirs, but that is my prerogative!
Okay, so first things first. If you have the chance and the patience check out this movie called "Monsters". I caught it last night on Netflix and it was surprising good. It is about the aftermath of a pseudo alien invasion. A photographer is sent to bring back a wealthy-man's daughter from Mexico. Without getting into to too much I will see the camera shots and acting are spot on. The aliens at first look really lame but when you get a good shot of them, they are golden. Plus it isn't like any other alien movie I've seen. And I have seen quite a few. All in all, out of my newly dubbed "Erock Pompous Ass Rating System"... I give it three out of five. Just to be clear on how my system works; of all the movies I have ever watched, only eight have gotten a full five stars. The Godfather sits atop the list in spot one. Jungle 2 Jungle with Tim Allen and Martin Short received a 1 star. I don't give out zeros because that would just defeat the purpose.
Well I think that is enough for my very first one. I hope you all enjoyed it. If not, well you can go "blog" yourself with an iron stick.
Don't be a fool, wrap your tool...
One
First and foremost this will not be as well written as theirs, but that is my prerogative!
Okay, so first things first. If you have the chance and the patience check out this movie called "Monsters". I caught it last night on Netflix and it was surprising good. It is about the aftermath of a pseudo alien invasion. A photographer is sent to bring back a wealthy-man's daughter from Mexico. Without getting into to too much I will see the camera shots and acting are spot on. The aliens at first look really lame but when you get a good shot of them, they are golden. Plus it isn't like any other alien movie I've seen. And I have seen quite a few. All in all, out of my newly dubbed "Erock Pompous Ass Rating System"... I give it three out of five. Just to be clear on how my system works; of all the movies I have ever watched, only eight have gotten a full five stars. The Godfather sits atop the list in spot one. Jungle 2 Jungle with Tim Allen and Martin Short received a 1 star. I don't give out zeros because that would just defeat the purpose.
Well I think that is enough for my very first one. I hope you all enjoyed it. If not, well you can go "blog" yourself with an iron stick.
Don't be a fool, wrap your tool...
One
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