4th of July Dance Party!

What better way to celebrate the holiday with some pure fun dance music?  Friends, family, fireworks, good grub and some amazing music is how I love to spend my holiday.  So I continue the dance music of summer with this fun playlist.  I decided to bring back the videos as well! That way you get the full song on YouTube and the direct link from amazon to purchase if you so choose!

Everyone have a wonderful and safe 4th of July.  Happy Independence Day USA!!  Let's Party in the U.S.A.:)


MONDAY - "4th of July" - Kelis - What a great song to start off the week! Very fitting and definitely going to get your body moving on this holiday!






















TUESDAY - "I Like It" - Enrique Iglesias - Keep that party moving with this guilty pleasure.  Somehow Enrique still makes me move.  This is definitely going to be a summer anthem in the clubs!






















WEDNESDAY - "XXXO" - M.I.A. - I heard this song on SYTYCD this week and have been obsessed ever since!  Did you know I first heard "Just Dance" by Lady Gaga on this show about 2 years ago? That's how I discovered Gaga!  They are always at the forefront for great music!






















THURSDAY - "Don't Fucking Tell Me What to Do" - Robyn - Can I ever get tired of Robyn? Definitely not!  This is another amazing song from her recent album!  I actually won this album from the 'music slut' via Twitter.  Check them out here, http://themusicslut.com. Thanks guys!
























FRIDAY - "Bionic" - Christina Aguilera - This is the title track of her recent album and the only song I actually really like from this album.  Most of the lyrics on the other song are so ridiculous I can barely even stomach them when I'm drunk.  This one on the other hand, pumps me up for sure!
























SATURDAY - "Dynamite" - Taio Cruz - Another great song by Taio, I'm literally obsessed with this guy!  I may have to download the entire album since his singles are so amazing!






















SUNDAY - "Happiness" - Alexis Jordan - A singer from the first season of America's Got Talent and just added to Jay-Z's label, this 18yr old has definitely got a hit here!  A great way to end the week, I wish everyone happiness on this holiday weekend!  No link from amazon yet, so enjoy the video here!

Summer time!

Summer is finally here...well if you are in Chicago, we don't know for sure!  This is my favorite time of the year and one of the main reasons I stay in Chicago.  From festivals every weekend to alfresco dining to rooftops decks to pools to beach volleyball, Chicago I do love you!


Music is always right there next to me to further help me enjoy every experience.   From the slow jam to the disco party, here are some great tunes I'm enjoying this week.  Load up your I-pod!


MONDAY - "None of Dem" - Robyn feat. Royksopp - So with the release of Body Talk, Pt. 1 this week, it was EXTREMELY difficult to choose my favorite song for the week!  So this is my first choice.  Please pick up the album, it's truly amazing!




















TUESDAY - "Touch" - Natasha Bedingfield - This is the lead single of her new album due this summer.  Although her songs usually annoy me after a few listens, this one hasn't...yet!




















WEDNESDAY - "Amongst the Waves" - Pearl Jam - I know right, me and Pearl Jam.  Huh? Actually Eddie Vedder and I go way back...way back to the 90's.  My new friends I met on my trip to Mexico re-introduced me to the band.  This is off Backspacer album that came out last year, and I really dig it!




















THURSDAY - "Game Over" - V.V. Brown - This is the second appearance of VV on my blog.  Her album Traveling like the Light was released in February this year and it's really cool!  It's got a great retro vibe but still current!





















FRIDAY - "Compliments" - Band of Horses - If you haven't heard this band, you are missing out!  A great chill-out band for any summer party.  This is off their first single off their new album released May 18, 2010!  I want to see them on tour.   I bet they are amazing! When are they coming to Chicago?!?  I'll find out!





















SATURDAY - "American Slang" - Gaslight Anthem - This is the current single of the week on I-tunes, you can get it free there until Tuesday I believe.  If not, it's here on amazon.com.  Another rock steady band I'm really starting to get into!




















SUNDAY - "Dirty Picture" - Taio Cruz  feat. Ke$ha -  OK, I know I vowed to never put her on my blog but it's more for Taio! (although I'll admit, her part is kinda sexy!)  This is probably one of the cheesiest and stupidest songs I've put on my blog, but it's just damn catchy and the video is hot!  I'll probably hate it next week.:)






















Have a great week!  I hope everyone has realized they can not only purchase the song on amazon but also preview it too!

I'm baaack!

Hi fellow music lovas, I hope you missed me.  I apologize for not being your personal DJ lately.  I've been really busy with weddings, trips, birthdays and general craziness but I haven't forgot about you.  With summer right around the corner, I thought this would be a perfect time to bring you some great new summer anthems.

Also due to requests about finding the music, I decided it would probably be more efficient to provide you a direct link.  So you can purchase any of these MP3's directly from amazon.com.  I have come to realize amazon.com is great for everything especially MP3'S because they are often cheaper than I-tunes!

I'll try to come back often....because there are a lot of great albums coming out this summer!  Here are a few HOT new tracks!


MONDAY - "Push Push" - Kat DeLuna  - This first single off her upcoming album, this one will definitely get you moving all summer long.




















TUESDAY - "All the Lovers" - Kylie Minogue - If this is any preview of where the new album is going, it's going to be hot.  I honestly listened to this song 50 times in one week...slightly obsessed!  Look for Aphrodite in July!





















WEDNESDAY - "Dancing on my Own" - Robyn - A bit over zealous with three new albums?  Definitely not, if they sound like this!  Body Talk Pt. 1 releases June 15th!





















THURSDAY - "Commander" - Kelly Rowland ft. David Guetta - This seems to be an amazing partnership! Who can forget last summer's anthem "When Loves Takes Over"!?  Now they duo is back with another summer anthem!




















FRIDAY - "Pacific Coast Highway" - Hole - Love or hate her, Courtney love definitely has a point of view. This is the second single off Nobody's Daughter.  Catch her live in Chicago July 14th or 15th at The Vic.  I'll be there on the 15th to experience this trainwreck live!















SATURDAY - "Ridin' Solo" - Jason Derulo - I was a fan from the get-go when he sampled Imogen Heap's "Hide and Seek" and became and even bigger fan after the amazing "In my Head".  Now he has released a song countering "All the Single Ladies" with a song that I like to call "All the Single Fellas".  :) Enjoy















SUNDAY - "Fire with Fire" - Scissor Sisters - The triumphant return of the sisters with some new material is June 29, 2010 with their album Night Work.  And this lead single is amazing and available June 20!  I'm addicted!

Just call me Paula

So I thought I would try to continue to deliver the goods in the form of FREE music...well GOOD free music that is! Since you can find just about anything on the web these days, I'll do my best to find you the keepers. I'll do the dirty work and be your unemployed Paula Abdul...judging the tunes before I tell you where you can get them.

Speaking of Paula, I totally miss her on Idol. Ellen is just not going the trick! And don't get me started on Kara! Sadly, this will probably be my last year watching Idol. Next year without Simon, it's going to be baaad. This year's talent isn't very good anyway or even memorable.

Rumours of Paula are floating around for her return to TV...from the US version of X-Factor to a re-vamp of Star Search to the next season of SYTYCD...we'll see if any pan out! Paula, where are you? We miss your crazy yet heartfelt comments!

Seven free songs every week is going to be kinda hard so I'll try my best every week to at least find a few. I have couple ditties I enjoyed this week, some free and some not. Here they are:

Monday - "Rocket" (Richard X One Zero Remix) - Goldfrapp - Get excited, their new album is out this week and it's going to be hot! I have previewed some of the songs on Itunes and they are great! Head First is released this week! This first single remix I found on amazon.com for free. Here is the link:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/s/ref=dm_tw_0309week_free/?node=334897011&field-date=20100309-20100315

Tuesday - "One in a Lifetime" - Monica - Ok, ya'll know I'm not a huge R&B fan, but I thought some of my readers might like it, so thought I'd cater to ya. Actually, the only song I really liked from Monica was that duet with Brandy from 4ever ago. Although slightly depressing and uplifting at the same time, this song has grown on me. Her new album Still Standing is out this week too. Here is the free link for a limited time!

http://www.amazon.com/One-In-A-Lifetime/dp/B003BT7MEO/ref=dm_tw_monica_free

Wednesday - "Animal" - Neon Trees - I have told you before about the free weekly tune on Itunes every week. Sometimes they are great and sometime they suck! This weeks is good. Keep in mind they change every Tuesday, so you only have today to get this song. Just go to the free section on Itunes near the bottom of the homepage. This band hales from Utah and the single is off their debut Habits album released last week. I'll check out the rest and report back but I do love this single!




Thursday - "Take Control" - Julissa Veloz - I WISH this song was free but it was only $1.99 on Itunes for 3 versions and let me tell you, they are HOT. I can see this being that summer anthem especially in the clubs! I don't remember her but apparently she was nicknamed "Tiara girl" from her American Idol auditions from Season 8. She didn't make it past Hollywood week.






Friday - "All This Time" - OneRepublic - I slow it down a bit with this selection. This song is so pretty and I'm totally obsessed. Not to be super cheesy, but this song would be perfect for a wedding. In true Paula fashion, I would totally be balling at this selection. This is off their new album Waking Up which is really good. Pick it up if you haven't yet, I like it better than their




first!Saturday -"The Journey" - Dolores O'Riordan - I used to have a cranberries obsession and not just for my vodka:) Back in the 90's, The Cranberries were one of my favorite bands! Did you know Dolores has released two solo albums? This is off her second one No Baggage released last year. This is a perfect song for a long run or at least for me it is. I really like these motivating songs for my runs.





Sunday - "Tea Party" - Kerli - This is off the Almost Alice soundtrack, and is another great song by this Estonian Princess. Look for her new album this spring!

Free Music!!!!

Now that I got your attention, don't you wish it was true!?! Hahaha

Shameful and tacky in an attempt to lure readers and fans?...Totally! I know.

Actually if you know me, I'm anything but those two words...(at least I hope). So this week, all the tunes are free!! Just click the links and download the MP3's. See good things can be free to those who read!

I won't drown you with words since it's the tunes you want! Here you go, 7 free songs!


Monday - "Memories" - David Guetta feat. Kid Cudi (Armand Van Helden Remix) - I already featured this song in my playlist a few weeks ago. Well now you have a hot remix for your dancing pleasure!


- Memories (feat. Kid Cudi) (Armand Van Helden Vocal Remix)


Tuesday -"She Don't Wanna Man" - Asher Roth (Yes Giantess Remix) - So this should totally be the theme song to the Ellen show. Take a listen! HAHHAAHHA. Naa seriously, Roth is a American rapper and this is off his Asleep in the Bread Aisle released last year. That is Keri Hilson you do hear in the background of this vocal. The new Eminem?


- She Don't Wanna Man (Yes Giantess Remix)


Wednesday - "Sleepyhead" - Passion Pitt (Cassette Club Remix) - Hailing from Cambridge, MA this electronic band's biggest hit is this single from their Manners album last year. One of my fellow colleagues and blog followers got me into this band, thanks Brian!


- Sleepyhead (Cassette Club Remix)


Thursday - "Proxy" - Echo & The Bunnyman - Talk about an old skool post-punk band! They formed a year after I was born but still are releasing albums. This is off their 2009 Fountains album and this ditty fits right into the current music trend..a somewhat collaboration of Vampire Weekend meets Fall Out Boy if you will!


- Proxy


Friday - "Your Love is a Drug" - Leighton Meester - Your favorite bitch, Blair Waldorf, from Gossip Girl is releasing her debut album this April. Her first single with Robin Thicke, "Somebody to Love", slowly grew on me last year. This pop perfection is my new obsession of the week! Upper East Siders, let's so hope B brings some more HOT tunes this spring!


XOXO,
tone4thedef





Saturday - "Baby Can't Stop" -Lindstrom & Christabelle - Disco fever! OMG this song is totally going to be on SYTYCD next season! An infectious, poptastic track from the Norwegian pair’s first collaborative effort, Real Life Is No Cool.


- Baby Can't Stop (Radio Edit)



Sunday - "Hustle" - Tunng - Have you heard of Folktronic? Yeah, me either! But you guessed it. It's folk music infused with electronic beats. For that reason alone, you have to listen to this song. Give it a few seconds, it starts off slow but the melody and vocal styling are great! Plus any remix with the words 'bloc party' in it and you it's going to be good! This is the first single off their next album ...And Then We Saw Land which is to be released on March 1st, 2010.


- Hustle (Bloc Party Remix)

I hope your IPOD is happy! Be sure to follow me on this blog or leave a comment so I know who is listening! Tweeters, find me @tone4thedef!

The Current Soundtrack of My Life

Did everyone watch the Oscars last night? I did for the most part. However, I feel next year I may only watch the Red Carpet on E! and then the last hour. All that drab in the middle made me switch between my Judge Judy on DVR and the live telecast. Yes, Judge Judy...obsessed!

With the show just yesterday, I thought I'd dedicate my blog to movies this week...sorta;) This week's theme is soundtracks. Remember when movie soundtracks dominated the billboard charts? It's been a few years but "The BodyGuard", "City of Angels", and "Garden State" are few that come to mind.

My all time favorite soundtrack is probably from the movie "Cruel Intentions" or "Go". I know old skool right?

I found some new songs and soundtracks for this week's playlist. A lot of them are dominated by the new movie I was dying to see Alice in Wonderland. Although I still am going to see it, don't you hate when critic reviews ruin it? I heard it's not too uhmazing. Oh well, I'm A.D.Dicted to 3-D after Avatar so I'll definitely see it in the theater.

Here are some great tunes from soundtracks for you to check out!

MONDAY - "Stay Here Forever" - Jewel from the "Valentine's Day" album - So I didn't see this movie based purely on the shiteous critic reviews but honestly I never had a desire to see it. It looked like a ripoff of "He's Just Not That Into You" or "Love Actually". I do love me some Jewel. If you haven't seen her life, do it! She tells the most hilarious stories in between her songs!




TUESDAY -"Wunderkind" - Alanis Morissette from The Chronicles of Narnia and The Vancouver Olympics soundtrack - If you didn't watch the closing ceremonies from this year's Olympics, you missed an amazing performance by Canada's best musical export. Damn, girl looked HOT!! Way to go! Show Mr. Ryan Reynolds what he is missing out on! Scarlet Shmarlet:)




WEDNESDAY -"Strange" - Tokio Hotel feat. Kerli from the "Almost Alice" soundtrack - So I have never got into Tokio Hotel basically just because I never heard any of their songs. I know they were quite the rage a year or two ago. Anyway, I do love Kerli a.k.a the Estonian Lady Gaga! Please check out her "Love is Dead" album from 2008. Also her new album due in May!




THURSDAY - "Follow me Down" - 30h!3 feat. Neon Hitch from the "Almost Alice" soundtrack - This electronic band hales from Boulder, CO and get their name from the 303 area code for Colorado. You may have heard them featured in Ke$ha's new "Blah Blah BLah" song. BTW, that is the last you will hear of her in the blog. She is mega annoying and you will never hear her in this playlist!




FRIDAY - "My Life Would Suck Without You" - from the Glee Soundtrack volume 2 - Are you a Gleek? I totally am! How could you not? It's super cheesy fun with great humour and popular remixes of songs new and old! Tuesday April 13 is the date it returns! On a side note, Miss Kelly Clarkson joins Lilith Fair 2010. I'm so there!




SATURDAY -"Keep Holding On'" - from the Glee Soundtrack Volume 1 - Almost better than the original version from Avril Lavgine who coincidentally had her version featured in the 2006 "Eragon" dragon movie and has a super annoying song on the "Almost Alice" soundtrack . NPH and JLo are supposedly making guest appearances this season and they are even having a Madonna music only episode! So excited to put Glee music in my playlist without you thinking I'm a total GLEEK!





SUNDAY - "No Sound but the Wind" The Editors from the "Twilight: New Moon Saga" - So I can't leave the vampire craze outta my movie playlist. Look for the "Eclipse" soundtrack later this year. I didn't love this soundtrack, a tad gloom for me but I did like the track and totally like the movies.




So did anyone notice that the Taio Cruz feat. Ludacris "Break My Heart" song I featured more than a month ago in my "Love is in the Air' playlist is now #1 on Itunes this week? I told you I find the music first for you! Here is the official video!

My March Madness

Welcome to my March Madness! The madness for me is not basketball but rather deciding to give up alcohol for Lent the year. The overwhelming question I get is 'Why, are you crazy?' But yes, I've heard everything.

From 'Are you serious?' to 'That's the one thing you're not supposed to give up' to 'Wow, that's awesome' to 'More power to you' to 'You'll last a week'!

The reality was after a couple back to back Sunday Fundays, I decided a needed a break and so did my liver. Also throw in a couple weekday starts with a bad hangover and the idea of slitting my wrists looking like the means to the end, Ash Wednesday happened to fall right on the calendar at the perfect time. Yes folks, I did it for Jesus!

Actually not being super religious, I'm using this time as a time of penance and fasting for my own spiritual being. Not entirely a devotion to God, but more a devotion to myself and to prove to myself I can do it. Also, ask pretty much anyone who knows me, and they'll tell you that I'm a man of my word. So when I say I'm going to do something, I do it. So my dear friend alcohol, I'll see ya on Easter.

My first test was this weekend for one my best friend's birthday, and surprisingly it went well! There was only a few minor setbacks like the server not even bringing my Diet Coke when I ordered it but coincidentally remembering my friend's Vodka drink, and a case of the stink eye when I turned down a shot. I know right, who turns down free shots? Other than than that, my alternating between Diet Coke and Red Bull kept me right on track with my fellow drinkers and few even noticed.

So who says you need alcohol to have fun? Me....any other day but these 40 days:)

Here's your madness playlist for the week!


Monday - "Fight for You" - Morgan Page - I featured this DJ in a playlist a few weeks ago. This is another song off his "Believe" album...no, not Cher's "Believe" album. I'm digging this album!





Tuesday - "Try Sleeping with a Broken Heart" - Alicia Keys - I'm not the biggest Alicia Keys fan. Don't get me wrong, I think she is an amazing voice and talent. Sometimes her songs are a little slow and bland for me, but this one I do love! This is off her latest album "The Element of Freedom".





Wednesday - "When I'm Small" - Phantogram - An American rock duo hailing from NY, these Jr. high school friends formed a band in 2007. They've played with Yeasayer before which I have featured in this blog. Hooping loops, synth pop, dance beat and haunting lead vocals from Sarah Barthel, you can't go wrong with this single.




Thursday - "Scars" - Allison Iraheta - Ok, if you watch Idol, you saw this song on the results show this week. Reminiscent of a P!nk song, this is a rather slow song but I do like it. Although she is slightly awkward during interviews, she does have a great voice.





Friday - "Pyramid" - Charice - You've likely seen this young 17yr old singer on Ellen or Oprah who rose to fame on youtube. This is her fist single off her international debut slated for later this year. From the Philippines, this singer made her debut on the Filipino version of Idol but only took third place. I have her feeling her voice will take her much further in the US!





Saturday - "Fall Hard" - Shout Out Louds - This song reminds me of the indie band Owl City but the Swedish version. Off their "Work" album released this month, this is a fun catchy ditty. For Passion Pitt fans, they did a great "Summertime Radio Remix" version of this song but its a tad slower. Check it out!




Sunday - "Never Forget You" - The Noisettes - So this is the perfect theme song for me this week. Don't you love how I someone can find perfect songs for every theme?

What you’re drinkin’
Rum or whiskey
Now don’t you have a…
Double with me

ACTUALLY...Yes, puhleeeze I will take a double Vodka on Easter...thaaaaanks!

This song reminds me of you!

Do you know why I love music so much? Every song can remind me of something. A feeling, a person, an experience, a time in your life whether it be good, bad or in between.

For me, U2's "Beautiful Day" represents a sad yet excited time when I left NM for the first time and moved to Denver. The Cranberries "Zombie" and "Ode To My Family" were the songs I blasted on my way to college in my little red Toyota Tercel. Hole's "Violet" triggers an extremely lonely, dark time in my life that I was able to overcome.

I'm sure you've heard a song pop on the radio and it immediately evokes emotion...whether it be a chuckle, smile, tear or a feeling you'd rather forget. Music triggers something in the brain and heart.

So this week, I dedicate my blog to my favorite band Nickelback and their song "How You Remind Me". HA! I hope you know I'm kidding. Nickelback, seriously? If you read my blog, I hope you know my favorite band is actually Limp Bizkit. HAHAH, actually I was inspired by my first song this week by Annie. I hope you like it.

So I thought I'd dedicated this blog to my friends and the songs that remind me of you. Whether it be a song or an artist, I will always think of you guys when I hear these songs. This is for you my friends and a few of the songs that remind me of you!

Blanche a.ka. Danielle - Blue Da Ba Dee -Eiffel 65
Katrina - Bush/Goo Goo/No Doubt...our first concert together and pretty much any STP, Pearl Jam, DMB or Live song remind me of all those other unforgettable ones
Kelly - the "Go" soundtrack on my back porch
Regina - "Music" by Madonna
Crystal - "She-Wolf" hahahaha , "Bootylicious" or any Prince song
Snarisa/Hoochina a.k.a. Carisa & Christina - "Jessie's Girl"
My sis - "Feliz Navidad" hahahha
Ems - "Cool" by Gwen Stefani and "Who's that Girl" by Robyn oh and Scissor Sisters
Jessie - Ppppoker Face..not the piano version;)
Matt - "Underneath" by Alanis Morrisette..the remix of course
Seth - "Since You Been Gone" by Kelly Clarkson
David - it pains me to mention her in my blog, but Mariah Carey
Sarah - Gwen Stefani...and our 'suburbs experience'
Paul - any song from "Flavors of Entanglement" by Alanis and new song below
Erin - "Gimme More", "Piece of You", etc. - by the one and only B. Spears!~!
Lesbros (new VB team) - "Bad Romance" - by who else ?!GAGA !



Be sure to let me know, if a song reminds you of me or feel free to share any moments in my comments section.


Monday - "Song Remind me of You" - Annie - For obvious reason, this song is my favorite this week. The second single from her "Don't Stop" CD. I featured her first single a few weeks past.




Tuesday - "Is there a Ghost" - Band of Horses - This song made me think of my friend Paul from his hilarious stories tells about his ghost in his apartment. Paul, this song is for you! Let's go to Lolla this summer! I heard about Band of Horses from a friend who went to Lolla last summer and have been obsessing lately. This is off their amazing "Cease to Begin" album. Check it out!




Wednesday - "Terrified" - Katharine McPhee feat. Jason Reeves - OK, I'm going to bust out a ballad for you. As you know, I love Idol. If you are watching Idol this year, you heard this song from contestant Didi Benami who sang this song written by Kara DiGuardi. This is off Katharine's recently released second album "Unbroken". I did have McFever but this album is slightly a snoozefest besides this song. I included both versions.










Thursday - "He Keeps Me Alive" - Sally Shapiro - This is my second favorite song of the week. It just makes me smile and happy. A Swedish singer, this is off her "Disco Romance" album. I will try to find more of her!




Friday - "I Got You" - Leona Lewis - If you are keeping track, this is the first artist to make it my playlist 3 times. This is her second single off "Echo". "Friends, I got you and you can run to me!" I love it!




Saturday - "Halfway Gone" - Lifehouse - Remember "Hanging by Moment"? OMG, I used to love that song! I used to blast it in my car back in NM doing a total horrendous sing along version, thankfully with the widows rolled up. Well, this is the lead single off their new "Smoke & Mirrors" album due in March.




Sunday - "Song for No One" - Miike Snow - And then sometimes songs remind of us or nothing or no one! Hahhahha





Have a great week my friends!

An Olympic size playlist

Is everyone watching the Olympics? I hope so. They certainly are inspiring. My dream as a kid was to run in the Olympics in the 100 and 200 m. dash. Carl Lewis was my role model as a young tyke. I still remember those games of '88 when he ran away with the gold medal and broke the world record.

Circumstances prevented me from chasing that dream so I always tear up a bit at the Olympics when someone is able to breakthrough and capture the gold.

I do sometimes have regrets about not chasing my dream but I still have smaller goals that I accomplish daily, weekly and yearly. Music is always my right hand man in those goals. So keep dreaming, keep listening and keep loving music!

Monday - "Strange Condition" - Morgan Page - If you think this song sounds familiar, you are correct. This is a cover of the original Pete Yorn version. Page is a DJ from LA who is releasing his new album "Believe" later this month.



Tuesday - "Boys & Girls" -Martin Solveig feat. Dragonette - So I have dabbled in a lot of Euro pop for you guys and this one sticks in that genre but is actually French. An electronic DJ in France, Solveig hosts a radio show and released this fun track last year.




Wednesday - "My Turn" - Basement Jaxx feat. Lightspeed Champion - So remember last week when I told you I used to obsess about their album "Rooty"? Well it's starting again, this is a great track of their album "Scars." So many more to come!



Thursday - "Black & Gold" - Sam Sparro - This song was actually featured in two terrible movies last year "Obsessed" with Beyonce and "Fame". I didn't see the latter but heard it wasn't very good and I suffered through half of the 'Beyonce and the chick from Heroes version' of "Fatal Attraction" on DVD.



Friday - "Boys & Girls" - Pixie Lott - I featured this UK import a few playlists ago. This is another one of my favorites! Make your state-side debut already Pixie!



Saturday - "Animal" - Miike Snow - No, that is not a misspelling, they have two 'i's" in their name if you have having trouble finding the song. Formed in 2007, this is a Swedish band that includes the two producers Bloodshy & Avant who are responsible for 'Toxic" by Britney Spears.



Sunday - "Paradise Circus" - Massive Attack feat. Hope Sandoval - Do you miss Mazzy Star? I sure do! Hope Sandoval a.k.a Mazzy Star makes an appearance on the new Massive Attack album called Hegioland due this month. Definitely a trippy slow jam for a lazy Sunday!

So you think you wanna dance?

So this week's playlist is about dance music. I know, isn't it always?

Yes, this week is going to be HOT, not temperature wise and not because of Valentine's day but because these songs may remind you of one the timeless saying of my favorite pop culture icons, "That's hot," by Paris not France;)

Short and sweet, I'm really excited about these songs, so I hope you enjoy kiddies.

Monday - "Acapella" - Kelis - You may have forgotten the "Milkshake" girl, but no fear the bitch is back! OMG and it's hotter than ever. Keep my word, this is going to be one of the hottest tracks of 2010! Your welcome! Produced by David Guetta, you know the rest of the album is going to pure dance this spring.




Tuesday - "Naturally" - Selena Gomez and the Scene - I know, I know not another Disney princess turned pop star. One Miley is enough! This song is off their debut album "Kiss and Tell" released last fall and shamelessly I love it.



Wednesday - "Raindrops" - Basement Jaxx - 'Where's your head at'? I know it's been a long time since the amazing "Rooty" album I listened to religiously back in 01. Well, they released another amazing album "Scars" last fall. Stay tuned for many more hot tracks from them this year.




Thursday - "History" - Vassy - Ok, this song sounds slightly like a familiar Mary J. Blige track, but that was one of the hottest tracks ever! So she sounds like a spawn of Mary J and Anastasia. This Australian songstresses has had songs features on Greys, Ugly Betty, and several movies. She is currently working on an album due this summer with producers for Lady Gaga and Madonna and I expect this song to explode especially in clubs kinda like Ke$ha but not quite as annoying.




Friday - "It's Over" - DJ Scott Mann feat. Amuka - Amuka has been been featured on a lot of dance hits from DJ's. You may remember her "Appreciate Me" song from Peter Rauhofer featured on the Queer as Folk soundtrack several years back. Her voice, just like Macy Grays, is great for dance club remixes.




Saturday - "Shark in the Water" - V.V. Brown - This song was free on I-tunes. Being the thrifty nickel I am, I swooped it right up. VV hails from the UK; I think I have a thing for UK artists as you can tell from this blog. This song has been growing on me all week. It has a retro-pop feel. Is a shark in the water the same thing as the elephant in the room? I dunno...deep thoughts.



Sunday - "Feel your love" - Kim Sozzi - So not sure if I believe this one, but supposedly this song just overtook Gaga's "Pokerface" as the most played Billboard dance single of 2009. I have not really heard of her till now, but this song is off her "Just One Day" album released in July of 2009.

So that does it, dance your bums off!

Love is in the Air?

February is my favorite month. "Why?"...Do you ask? Shooooooot, I thought it was a given. My favorite holiday is this month. DUH! Yup, exactly love is definitely in the air.

The love from the IRS, that is. The IRS typically refunds me with the money they stripped out of my paycheck so selfishly the year before. So February is the month when I actually have a little more padding in my wallet...at least for a day or two. So Happy IRS Refund Month...at least for those of you who do your taxes early and get a refund.

Otherwise, I guess you could always celebrate some other stupid Hallmark created holiday. No, I'm not Debbie Downer because I'm single...ok, well maybe a little;)...but I have never really been a fan of this holiday for lovers. Can't we just love each other everyday?

Here are some love inspired anthems for the week....for both lovers and those of you who say 'screw lovers day'.

Monday - "Break my Heart" - Taio Cruz - Hailing from the UK and mainly known as a producer for such hit artists like Kylie Minogue, Brandy and Cheryl Cole, Cruz released this song of his second album "Rockstarr" last year. There is also a really hot remix I found that is sure to be a hit in the clubs. That is the link below but the original is good too.



Tuesday - "Dirty Desire" - Utada - This import from Japan is off her English album "This is the One" released last year. One of the best selling artists in Japan, she is trying to crossover into the US. She is actually playing at the House of Blues today Tuesday Feb. 2 in Chicago. If anyone wants me for their date, I'd love to go! There is also a remix that I featured below. Remixes are always better for the work-outs if you ask me.





Wednesday - "Soldier of Love" - Sade - It's been 10 years since we've heard from Sade. She is making her welcomed return to music, with a new album on Feb. 10, 2010. However you can purchase this song from I-tunes right now. A tad slower, but the lyrics likely agree with most.





Thursday - "Don't Upset the Rhythm" (Dave Aude Club remix) - Nosiettes - So the original version is kind of cheesy but the remix is hot. So this is one of those songs where the remix is better than the original, sorry!



Friday - "Remedy" - Little Boots - This is off her "Hands" album set for a state-side debut in March. Another UK import, this album is already out in the UK, so you can probably find some songs now. If Kylie and Gaga had a baby, this would be their love child. She is at the Metro in Chicago on May, 1st. Anyone want to go?





Saturday - "Lasso" - Phoenix - If you haven't heard anything from this group yet, then definitely download their album, "Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix". They actually hail from France not the stifling hot city in Arizona and this album just won best alternative music album at the Grammys on Sunday night.




Sunday - "O.N.E" - Yeasayer - An experimental rock/pop band from Brooklyn, NY. This is the lead single off their forthcoming "Odd Blood" album due February 9, 2010. Known for their visualizing psychedelic live shows, this should be a band to catch live in 2010.



Hope you kids are starting your month off well. Love is definitely in the air...or in my case, "Up in the Air." :)

Bu-Bye January!

Well, welcome to the last week of January! You know what that means, only 4 more months of winter for us Chicagoans. Actually, knock on wood quick, because I went running outside today. So the weather is looking better and better.

Although January is slightly depressing at the start of the month with the end of the holiday season and the reality the next paid holiday for most of us isn't till Memorial Day, I usually do a lot of reflection and look forward to the new year. I'm really excited about this year because there are a lots of fun things on my radar including weddings, vacations and summer in general.

I've been sticking to my guns (and working on them) with the workout regime I instilled in myself for 2010. Slowly but surely, I can see the results and winter weight shed, so keep on truckin' peeps. Hey at least with 4 months of winter left, we still have 4 months to look killer in our swimsuits!

Here's your songs for the week. I couldn't really think of a theme this week, but get excited for the American Idol week coming up when the finalists are announced.

Monday - "Who Wants to be Alone?" - Tiesto feat. Nelly Furtado - Well no one except maybe those crazy cat ladies....haha, no seriously though this is definitely a hot track! Can't go wrong with a little Nelly and many artists like JT and Timbaland think so too, her voice is recognizable in any song. I loved her from her folky debut song "I'm like a Bird." This one I have stuck on repeat this week!



Tuesday - "Mama Do" - Pixie Lott - The newest Amy Winehouse/Duffy/Adele import from the UK. Look for her to explode in the states this year when her debut "Turn it Up" album is released stateside. She was just nominated for 3 Brit awards including best breakthrough artist. She also has a cover of Kings of Leon's "Use Somebody" that is a hit on youtube. Uh-oh, uh-oh with Britney's looks and Amy's voice, your gonna want a lott more of Pixie!





Wednesday - "Heartbreak on Vinyl" - Blake Lewis - The name may sound familiar if you watch American Idol. Blake was runner-up to Jordin Sparks a few year backs. Although I was happy Jordin won, I did always like his own unique beat-boxin' take on many songs. This song is off his second album with the same name that was released in Oct. of 2009. I-tunes also just released a remix maxi-single of this song if you like what you hear. Not sure if this is the official video, but it's great if you are a fan of Empire Records and other old 'record store' movies!





Thursday - "Stranded (Haiti Mon Amour)" - Jay-Z, Bono, The Edge & Rihanna - If you were like me and missed the telethon, don't fear the album "Hope for Haiti" is on I-tunes and 100% of the proceeds benefit Haiti. At only $7.99 for 20 songs, it's a great deal for a great cause. This is my favorite song but their are many other great classics from Madonna, Beyonce, Shakira, JT, Sting, Mary J and many more. Check it out!



Friday - "Blame it on the Girls - Mika - Another UK import, this is off his second album released last year. I first heard this song as a remix and liked it enough to hunt down the original. If you looked up the definition of fun pop music, this song would be next to it.



Saturday - "Arrow" - Tegan and Sara - Indie rock goddesses who happen also to be identical twins, Canadian and lesbians, but who cares?! Their music and amazing live performances is why I like them. Their recent "Sainthood" album steps on the pop bandwagon but not losing their original voice. This is the song that stood out when I listened to it. The chronic pulsating vibe is great for a run!



Sunday - "Whatever you like" - Anya Marina - If you watch Gossip Girl, you likely will recognize this song. You may also remember the original version by T.I. Since he is jail, I guess he doesn't mind her using his song; he may need some cash when he gets out. All kidding aside, great proof there can be very good versions of the original hit. Check out the funny video with cameos from that annoying brother on Weeds and that project runway finalist from a few years back.





Have a great week and see you in February!

Do what you can...

There is only one thing to write about this week. It's hard to think of anything else. When tragedy hits unexpectedly, it is important to realize how precious life really is. Words can not describe the ordeal our fellow humans are facing, and it brings sadness into my heart when I think about the devastation. Music has always made me feel better, so hopefully these songs will help you get through this tragic week. If you haven't donated, please do. There is a simple way to do it be texting. Everyone knows how to text...well except for my parents.

Red Cross- text HAITI to 90999 to send a $10 donation.
Yéle Haiti- text YELE to 501501 to send a $5 donation.
United Way- text HAITI to 864833 to send a $5 donation.


So although the week was rather melancholy for me, do not fear these songs aren't super depressing; they are about change and reflection. There were on my ipod playlist all week.

Monday - "Change" - Carrie Underwood - The 4th winner of American Idol is the sole reason I allowed country music into my heart. Her voice gave me chills this past summer at Ravinia and this song off her latest "Play On" album is seemingly appropriate at this time in need.

Don't you listen to them when they say
You're just a fool
Just a fool
You believe you can change the world
Oh the smallest thing can make all the difference
Love is alive



Tuesday - "Just Say Yes" - Snow Patrol - This is a new song off their compilation album of rarities and b-sides called "Up to Now" released last Nov. Just say yes...for God's sake!



Wednesday -"In This Life" - Delta Goodrem - This song is slightly older from 07 I think but it recently received an updated mix. If you watch SYTYCD, it was actually the ending song when Jeanine won season 5. The nerd in me searched it out for my ipod. Seemed fitting to include in this week's playlist from the Australian beauty.



Thursday - "I See You" - Leona Lewis - From the Avatar movie, this song is truly beautiful. If you haven't seen the movie, do it now. 3-d is a must. I will see it again if you need a date! If you have seen the movie, you know the theme is about how we are all connected. We are connected to each other, so please donate to Haiti in their time of need.



Friday - "Heartbeat" - Nneka - I saved my favorite new song for the week for Friday. Think Lauren Hill minus the rapping with an amazing new beat. This song is off her EP, "The Uncomfortable Truth", released last Nov. The lyrics seem to fit right into this week's theme as well.

You said you'd be there for me
In times of trouble when I need you and I'm down


Saturday - "Need You Now" - Lady Antebellum - Okay, I know what you thinking, Tony, two country artists in one week!? The world is a changing, and others need you now. Please don't ask me how to pronounce their name though. We'll just call them 'the other lady' after Lady Gaga of course. Speaking of Gaga, buy anything from her online store on Jan. 24, and all proceeds go to Haiti. Maybe a Gaga hair bow? Check it out at www.ladygaga.com...Back to 'the other lady', I do really like this song though. Enjoy folks, their won't be too much country on the horizon.:)


Sunday - "Symphonies" - Dan Black - This song is a happy reflection song for your holy day...or at least your happy day-drinking day;) Off his "Un" album released Dec. 21, 2009, Black brings a vibe similar to Deathcab for Cutie or The Postal Service.



So although a bit on the slower side, they are still great for your workouts. I switched around the layout and interspersed the videos, let me know which format you like better. Enjoy kiddos!