Tunes Tuesday | Becoming Amy Winehouse

After doing dance in the past, I thought I'd start a new hobby and join my local Musical Theater classes. Since I was a child I've loved singing and dancing so I knew doing something like this would be right up my street! Things were going really well and after a few lessons, I was offered to do a solo in our end of year show, which was Top of The Pops themed. The show was about a young girl who wants to become a singer and after her mum gave her a Walkman, it then went into a dreamlike sequence and showcased a wide variety of music from different decades. Not only was I offered the incredible opportunity to play the young girl who dreams of becoming a singer, I was also offered the incredible role of Amy Winehouse! Now as you guys know, Amy Winehouse is one of my idols and someone that I've always admired in the music industry. Her song writing ability was one of the things that made her so so special, she was able to tell relatable stories through her music and that's one of the things about her that really spoke to me. When I found out I was going to be paying tribute to her, I was over the moon! And took the opportunity with both hands!

The show took place a couple of weeks back at the Regal Theater in Redruth. I was so nervous for show day but super excited at the same time! Leading up to the performance I had a lot of help from my singing teacher and lots of encouragement from the other people in my group, they really helped with my confidence, as I've only sung in front of people a handful of times. The show went really well! I and the best time ever playing Amy, I wish I could do it all over again! Shoutout to my CDS fam, I couldn't have done it without you! 

Q and A | with Ria Mae

As you would have already seen through Instagram and other social media platforms, I went to London back in February to see and meet Tegan and Sara. One of the opening acts from the evening was Canadian singer and song writer, Ria Mia. Ria, grew up in Halifax, Nova Scotia in Canada. She taught herself how to play guitar and how to write songs from a young age. Like Tegan and Sara, Ria is out and a proud member of the LGBTQ community. I found out about Ria's music purely from her touring with Tegan and Sara and I'm so glad that she was brought to my attention! Her music is incredible, the songs that she's written are like nothing being played in the charts, she's edgy and unique. While I was writing this post I wanted to find out more about her and her inspirations, so I thought why not try and get in contact.. luckily she agreed to doing a Q and A right here on my blog! Check it out below..

What was your favorite thing about touring with Tegan and Sara?  

Ria Mae: They're really nice. And really funny. And their whole team is as nice as they are.
MN: I always wondered if T&S were as funny as they were on stage off stage, that's awesome to hear!

When your touring, what do you miss the most from home?

RM: I miss cooking.
MN: Nothing beats a home cooked meal.

Would you ever come back to the UK and play a few gigs?

RM: Yes! I can't wait to get back there!
MN: That's awesome to hear! I'd definitely come and watch you again!

What's your favorite thing about performing and being on stage?

RM: I love feeling connected to the audience and to my band. It is definitely the best part of any day.

What's the craziest thing a fan has ever done?

RM: Lol I don't want to say the crazy things and have them read it here.
MN: Fair enough XD

Where do you get your inspirations for writing your songs? 

RM: Mainly my own life experiences...
MN: That's so inspiring, I've found songwriting a great way at dealing with certain life situations too.

What music are you into right now?

RM: I've been on an American country music kick.. which is weird for me.. but the writing is just so good in that genre.
MN: That's great! Country music inspired me to start writing and playing, I love how country songs can tell a story. 

I love your music video for Gold, what was the inspiration behind the video? 

RM: The director, Alon Isocianu, actually wrote that storyline and presented it to me amongst several other ideas. I just like the idea of making a mini movie. And the story fit perfectly with the concept of the song. (I'm glad you love it. Thank you!)

When can we expect new Ria Mae music?

RM: Well if I tell you, I have to tell everrrrrrybody ;) (but very soon!)
MN: This interview was taken June 6th and last week Ria released a brand new single 'Bend' which you can stream now on Spotify! I'm loving her new electro indie sound, you guys need to check it out!  

And finally, would you take a one of a kind selfie to end this interview?

I just want to take this moment to say a massive thank you to Ria for taking the time to do this interview for my blog, I really appreciate it, it's been a pleasure! I've left some links below were you can check out Ria's music, if you like T&S then you'll for sure like Ria..

**NEW SINGLE BEND** https://open.spotify.com/album/2buxsXVmW6f0zNyQqLcRto

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riamaemusic/

Instagram: @riaisawake

Tunes Tuesday | Alex Lahey

Ladies and gents, I present to you Alex Lahey. I discovered her music when she opened up for Tegan and Sara on their European tour, more specifically, she joined the UK leg of the tour. She's an Aussie singer/songwriter from Melbourne and her sound is kinda alternative and indie, which I'm kinda into. Her music is very different from anything in the charts and anything that UK music has to offer, she's unique and extremely talented. Her performance at the roundhouse was incredible, I loved how no one knew the lyrics to her songs, I love how she was completely jet lagged and I love how she just casually walked on the stage and how comfortable she was up there. The crowd went wild for her, don't believe me? Check her out on my vlog..

Alex Lahey recently released her debut album 'B Grade University', which you can download on iTunes features the songs..

"I went to B-grade university, and got myself an arts degree" - Ivy League 

"Let's go out and have fun tonight. Let's go out and get drunk tonight." - Let's Go Out 

"I stayed in the shower, to avoid doing some useful shit" - Wes Anderson

"Can't we pick up from where we started, even if it leaves me broken hearted?" - You Don't Think You Like People Like Me

"Your new girlfriend kinda looks a lot like me, but that's okay, if you've moved on then leave me be" - L-L-L-Leave Me Alone 

Tunes Tuesday | MEETING TEGAN AND SARA!!!

February 13th 2017 all my dreams came true. Not only did I get to go, to the Alexander McQueen store and finally get the scarf I've been lusting over for the last 5 years but, more importantly I MET TEGAN AND SARA!! They were playing a show at the Roundhouse in London, as part of their LY2D European Tour and a couple of weeks beforehand, they announced that their London show was going to be one of the select few dates, they were doing a meet and greet for. So I managed to get the early start off of work to stay at home and wait patiently to get tickets.. my heart was pounding, I was shaking, what if I didn't get tickets? I'd be heartbroken but, luckily the second they went on sale, I clicked 'buy ticket' and minutes later, the countdown begun to the moment I was going to meet my idols! I was more excited than a kid at Christmas! 

Fast forward to actually meeting them. I turned up at the venue an hour before doors opening, cued up with the rest of the meet and greeters and then we got took into the arena, where Ria Mae (one of T&S opening acts) was on stage doing soundcheck, it was so surreal. The tour manager talked us through what was going to happen, while we waited in excitement for them to arrive. At first glimpse I was in shock I couldn't believe they were standing in front of me, I felt like I stepped into a YouTube video or something. I thought I'd totally fangirl, cry and potentially faint, in excitement but, I was completely chilled, when I saw them I wasn't nervous, I was just so so happy, it was like I was talking to someone who I had known for years. Sara greeted me with a handshake, while Tegan went in for the hug. I gave them a present which was some Cornish biscuits and Cornish Cider because, when they last came to London they tried British sweets and didn't like them, so I thought I'd bring them a taste of Cornwall. I also wrote them a letter, which I won't go into detail about but, I hope it made them smile. They signed a page for my scrapbook and my 'Get Along' CD, I struggled to think of what I'd get them to sign, I knew I wanted my scrapbook page and I wanted a CD done but wasn't sure which one to go for, 'Heartthrob' was the first record of theirs I got, and I did think of getting 'Love You To Death' signed as it was the LY2D tour but, I thought I really like 'Get Along' because it's their live album with songs from their older records on, which is why I chose that one. They were so great and lovely when I met them, I couldn't get over how small they are, literally the same size as me! They were also nice enough to ask about my day and when I told them I was vlogging, they asked to be in my video and ended up introducing my vlog! I just couldn't get over how cool they are, the whole experience in all was just so inspirational, to think how far they've come in their career, how loyal and dedicated their fans are and they're so down to earth. As I said I felt like I was talking to someone who I'd known for years. Tegan and Sara if your reading this thank you for being you!

{Click the photo to watch Tegan and Sara in my vlog}

After the meet and greet, we had first access to the arena so I managed to get a spot right at the front! Ria Mae and Alex Lahey were the opening acts, and they were both so incredible that I'm going to be doing a separate blog post on their performances. T&S kick started their set with 'Back In Your Head' and they played all of my favorite songs from 'Nineteen' to 'BWU'. In their last number on the encore 'Stop Desire', there's a line that goes 'right where I want you back against the wall' and Tegan pointed at me and I died! I had an amazing evening, they made eye contact with me several times, sang their hearts out, danced like no one was watching and I was just there at the front grinning like I'd just won the lottery or something. #ProudFanMoment Here's a few pic's from the show..

This was hand on heart the best night of my life. I wish I could do it all over again!!

Tunes Tuesday | Lady Gaga Joanne REVIEW

Lady Gaga is back with a brand new album and a slight Country twang.. Joanne! Gaga describes Joanne as a very personal album, about her, the ups and downs during her fame and staying grounded, there's a very strong and powerful family message too. Joanne was Gaga's fathers late sister and even used 'Joanne' as Gaga's middle name, which really ties the album into that family connection. The inspiration of Joanne helped Gaga to build up a new persona and give her a new voice, after battling with depression and fame, Gaga felt like she lost herself for a while and then went on to create this fantastic album nothing like she's ever done before. The stand out tracks on the new album include..

"Get off on me, my body's got you pleadin', light me up and breathe in mirror on the ceilin'" - Ayo

"Take my hand, stay Joanne, heavens not ready for you" - Joanne

"Every John is just the same, I'm sick of their city games. I crave a real wild man, I'm strung out on John Wayne" - John Wayne

"When I bow down to pray, I try to make the worse seem better. Lord show me the way, to cut through all this worn out leather" - Million Reasons

"Everybody's got to love each other, stop throwin' stones at your sisters and your brothers" - Come To Mama

"Lady is it lonely? I've been calling out your name. Tell me that you need me 'cause I need you just the same" - Hey Girl ft. Florence Welch

Gaga recently preformed at the Victoria Secret Fashion show in Paris. Not only did she look and sound amazing but, oh boy, she put on a fantastic show and even got her own pair of wings while strutting up and down the catwalk. She performed a breathtaking performance of 'Million Reasons' and to close the show she rocked a mash-up of 'Ayo/John Wayne'. 

I've been a huge fan of Lady Gaga's music from 'Just Dance' to 'Born This Way' to 'Joanne'. I think she's a truly incredible artist and it's amazing just how much she changed over the years, she the singer on the radio that always keeps us guessing as to what she does next and I can't wait to see how she continues to evolve and create new music.

Tunes Tuesday | My First Tegan & Sara Gig!!!

June 22nd was the night that I finally got to see my idols Tegan and Sara, as they played a gig at Koko in Camden. And it was truly the...

{https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZfMb3eC0eg}

My London adventure started on the 21st June, I was originally meant to be travelling up with a friend but, unfortunately she had to work last minute so instead I went by myself. I'd been to London by myself before but, had never been to a concert there and I had never experienced Camden. I went to London with an open mind and low expectations, so I couldn't get disappointed but, overall it went really well! After a long day of travelling on the Tuesday, I went for a wonder around the quirky Camden markets, visited the Amy Winehouse statue, then went to grab dinner before heading back to the b&b I was staying at.   

When June 22nd came, I just couldn't contain my excitement! After counting down the months, to weeks, to days, I was finally counting down the hours and the minutes until the Tegan and Sara gig. So instead of sitting around in my b&b all day having existential crisis and stalking their Snapchat page, I thought I'd go and have a little shopping spree not only to distract me and calm me down but, I thought I could use a little treat too! And to see what I bought, check out my 'What I Bought Wednesday' post tomorrow! 

After my shopping trip, I went back to my b&b to change and grab my tickets, I was staying in central Camden, the concert was held at Koko which was pretty close to where I was staying so there was no need to rush and there was no last minute panicking. Before I left however, I did have this overwhelming rush of anxiety, as excited I was to go to the concert I was scared, you know the phrase 'never meet your idols', I was scared that they were going to disappoint me and I'd leave being less of a fan if you know what I mean? As strange as it sounds, the thought did cross my mind but I thought of a lot of random stuff that evening.. I was worried about passing out, having a literal heart attack for seeing Tegan and Sara, not being able to see and being stuck behind a tall person making it the worst night of my life, being hit on or chatted up (which to be fair wasn't a major concern ;), getting robbed, dropping my phone from shaking too hard.. basically I thought a lot! The one thing that did calm me down was that, there was never going to be another June 22nd 2016, for me or Tegan and Sara, there was going to be one evening, one moment that I could share with them making me feel close(r) to them and that really comforted me at the time. So I got myself together grabbed my stuff and started walking...

I can safely say that they didn't disappoint and that night I fell even more in love with them! They were everything I expected and more! They started their set with a couple of acoustic numbers including 'Call It Off' and 'Now I'm All Messed Up', I particularly enjoyed the re-vamp of their song 'Nineteen' and I liked the fact that they played a lot of old songs as well as the ones off the new record. It was honestly one of the best nights of my life and the next time they play a gig in London I am so there, I wouldn't miss it for the world! 

Shortly after the concert I posted this on my Instagram ^^ along with a clip of their performance of 'Stop Desire'. I mean every word of what I wrote. After this tragic year filled with hate and negativity against the LGBTQ community, we need to rise up and become aware of what's happening around us, at the end of the day we are all human, equals and we only have 1 life to live, so why not have a good time while we can?

Tunes Tuesday | Tegan and Sara | Love You To Death REVIEW

During my break from blogging a few massive milestones happened one of them being that, I finally went to a Tegan and Sara gig!! Which I will go into greater detail on my next 'Tunes Tuesday' post but for now, I wanted to talk about their brand new album which came out June 6th.. Love You To Death!

Tegan and Sara are back!! Carrying over from their last album 'Heartthrob' Tegan and Sara continued exploring, their pop/rock genre taking heavy influence from 80's music. Tegan and Sara recently went on record saying that they'd categorize themselves as being in a 'queer, political band' and the brand new album tackles many themes relating to the LGBTQ community, which I personally think is so inspirational given the events that happened in Orlando earlier on in the year. I think that this album is like a helping hand, pulling people a little bit closer from the edge of actually understanding LGBT and I think that their efforts are continuously opening doors of acceptance for the community. The stand out track 'Boyfriend' is being named the song of the summer. And that tackles a playful theme of gender roles in a relationship with lines like 'you treat me like your boyfriend'. Sara wrote this song and it was about her experience of being in a relationship and basically wanting to lock it down and make it official but, it can mean different things to different people, the one thing I love about this band is that they're songs can be interpreted in different ways making them more accessible to their audience. Here's my album run through..

"Say what I want, say what I need. Nobody hurts you like me." -That Girl | We've all heard rumors about 'that girl' the one that cheats, lies or uses a relationship.. well this song is about the realization that you're becoming that girl and your trying to figure out how it happened, where did the relationship go wrong and how you become that girl?

"Everyone will say it's dangerous to take this path. Everyone will tell us - apart that we are more intact." - Faint of Heart | To me this song is like falling in love all over again. It's explosive, it's exciting, it's enchanting and it's not for the faint of heart. When you fall so hard, it's tough and people will try and warn you off but, at the end of the day you can't help who you fall for.

"Can't let go of what's in my head. You hurt me bad I wanna understand." - Dying To Know | Ever stalked your exes Facebook page? Well this song is for you! When your hung up on a girl or guy that treated you badly and your dying to know how things worked out for them, did they move on? where are they? is the one you ended up with everything you wanted?

"Sick and tired of making all this racket. Waiting on you to get your ass in gear." - Stop Desire | Potentially my favorite song lyric ever! This energetic song is all about being with the one you wanted, getting butterflies when your about to meet them and the fiery passion when you finally do.. yeah you know what I'm talking about! There's also a longing that when you're not with them that you can't function, because you can never really 'stop desire' and stop thinking about the one that you love.. yeah you know what I'm talking about!

"I cried wolf. Howled it at the moon. So, luck be damned. Break that mirror in two" - White Knuckles | The girls wrote this song about basically fighting with each other but can be interpreted in different ways. To me it's like fighting with yourself and being in a situation that you knew would end badly and kinda looking at yourself in the mirror and wanting to punch it, because you don't know what to do next so the only thing you can do is smash the mirror and start again.

"I swear I tried to leave you at least 100x a day. I swear I tried to tell you a thousand times a different way" - 100x | The closest thing Tegan and Sara have ever written to being a ballad, 100x. As song that to me represents cheating on a partner and wanting to leave a relationship and there's so much build up and suspense and you want to tell them but you don't know how. This song is like the feeling you get when your stomach drops because you have to deliver bad news. Tegan actually wrote this song about wanting to leave the band.. thank god she didn't!  

"All the girls I loved before told me they'd signed up for more. Save your first and last chance for me, 'cause I don't want a white wedding" - BWU | If you haven't already seen the music video for this yet, then you should.. just gunna leave the link right here for you (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEFWES1hn1M) it's definitely worth the watch! The song is basically about not wanting to have a white wedding, which can be interpreted in different ways for example, not wanting to get married, not being in a traditional 'white wedding' kinda relationship, or just wanting to be different it doesn't have to be against either of those things it can just be a couples preference and they're way of wanting to proceed in their relationship.. just my views don't argue in the comments!

"Every minute you've been here I've been pushing you and your love away" - U-Turn | I feel like this song, is like having an argument. You've voiced your opinions, gone away and realized that you were wrong so you make a u-turn and apologize the only way you know how and somehow you still end up getting the girl/guy and are grateful as you believe you don't deserve them.

"Hang on to your hope. You have so much you gotta get through" - Hang On To The Night | Ending the album on a high, hang on to the night. As I previously mention T&S describe themselves as being a political band and when this song was released, it was automatically linked to the Orlando shootings. The song represents so much to a lot of different people since it was released, the main themes being, never giving up, never apologizing for who you are and not being afraid to love who you want. This song is like getting a warm hug when your at a cliff's edge and a reminder to always stay true to yourself.  

If you haven't already bought the album then I suggest that you do so, it really is amazing! And if this blog post wasn't enough to tempt you to buy it, then at least give it a listen to on Spotify. I really hope you enjoy it as much as I do! If your as big of a fan of T&S as I am then drop me a little comment so we can talk all thing T&S, as I need more people in my life that appreciate the band as much as I do! #LY2D

Tunes Tuesday | LEMONADE

When life gives you lemons.. Lemonade. If you haven't already guessed what I'm talking about, it's Beyoncé new album, which dropped April 23rd and the world literally stopped in amazement. Lemonade smashed the chart and went straight to number 1, just like her previous album and like her previous album it's visual one too and came with a 60 minute film focusing on the themes behind the album. The controversial album focuses on the relationship between Beyoncé and Jay-Z and the ups and downs, when she found out Jay was cheating on her. The visual side shows all the emotions she went through from 'Intuition, Denial, Anger, Apathy, Emptiness, Accountability, Reformation, Forgiveness, Resurrection, Hope and Redemption'. The film was so moving and empowering, every single emotion Beyoncé wanted to get across, came across perfectly and was shot and put together in such a beautiful way, If you haven't already got the album and seen the visual then I strongly recommend that you do.

"What's worse looking jealous or crazy? Jealous or crazy?" - Hold Up | This song was featured in the 'denial' section of the visual and that's very much what it represents. Being at that point of like 'hold up, they don't love you like I love you', there's no way you'd cheat and you'd do this. The whole song is so playful but, has a much more deeper message and that's what I like about it.  

"Goddamn, she murdered everybody and I was her witness" - 6 Inch | I love the beat and the general vibe on this song. '6 Inch' features The Weeknd and his vocals on this song sound incredible and I think his voice really compliments Beyoncé voice and together they just sound amazing! The song to me is about empowering other women to make their own money and not to rely on anyone else to do so but, it all has that sadness as Beyoncé seems to be singing it about herself, like she's watching herself going out there killing it and doing it for herself, but then coming home to nothing and craving to get back the life she had before Jay cheated. 

"What is it about you that I can't erase, baby?" - Sandcastles | Beyoncé's vocals on this track are raw and hopeful but, wounded, she conveys a lot of powerful emotion, which is why it relates to so many different people. I love the simplicity of this song, just vocals and piano, it's so beautiful.

"I'ma keep running, cause a winner don't quit on themselves" - Freedom | This song features Grammy award winner Kendrick Lamar and the song is as you guessed it, about freedom. It's a strong and powerful song about creating your own freedom for yourself and those who can't speak for themselves. It's all about taking a stand, being true to yourself and following though with your actions. At the end of the song there's an audio of Jay's grandmother making a speech ending with "I was served lemons, but I made lemonade", the line allegedly inspired the album.

"Okay, ladies, now lets get in formation, cus I slay" - Formation | To finish the album off we have formation. A song that is basically Beyoncé, it sums up every part of her from her heritage, her fame, her family, and her daughter Blue Ivy even features in the video. It's empowering not only for her but, for anyone who has ever had to prove themselves or work their way to the top.  


Just goes to show Beyoncé is queen and always will be. Let me know your thoughts on the new album, down in the comments!

Tunes Tuesday | Amy Winehouse

Whenever I think of Amy Winehouse, I picture her face, I hear her voice and all I can think is Idol. Over the weekend I finally watched the film 'Amy', which documented aspects of her career and personal life. It was a huge eye opener for me.  As you may already know, Amy's life was unfortunately cut short in 2011, due to alcohol poisoning. After she very publically dealt with her issues of  drugs, alcohol, depression and an eating disorder. While watching 'Amy', I was practically screaming at my TV.. Why did no one help her? Why didn't they intervene earlier? How could they let her go on stage like that?  I thought about it a lot and realised just how much things have changed. Nowadays things like, mental illness, alcohol and drug addiction are talked about a lot more and we're more aware of the signs and where and how to get help within our communities, which is truly amazing that we have so much access and information behind these diseases. I honestly can't imagine how Amy felt and how much pain she was in, not only with her addictions but, being so well known in the public eye and constantly being hounded by paparazzi. It really does break my heart, when I see images or videos of Amy when she was unwell, she was such a beautiful person and had an incredible talent.

Amy loved singing from a young age, but never considered growing up and becoming a singer, it was always something that she loved doing and was just so passionate about. Her jazz influence came from her parents, her father Mitch would sing 'Fly Me To The Moon' for her and constantly play Frank Sinatra. When asked in an interview, what her influences were, Amy responded saying that she learns from everything, from Jazz, to Hip Hop, to R&B and all of those influences show in her music.

Amy released 2 albums, 'Frank' and 'Back To Black', both of which were huge successes! In 2008 Amy took the Grammy's by storm, picking up the 'Record of The Year Award', beating the likes of Beyoncé, Rihanna and Foo Fighters, something which artists nowadays could only dream of doing. Her songs were always very personal to her, she speaks a lot about her relationships and her addictions, I think in a way, it was her way of processing what was going on in her life and she treated song writing kind of like therapy. She needed music.

"Feel like a lady, and you my lady boy" - Stronger Than Me | I love the lyrics to this song! There's definitely a lot of play on words in 'Stronger Than Me', it's obviously about being in a relationship with an older man and how they weren't quite what you expected and she plays around with that a lot, lines like 'I always have to comfort you', 'You're supposed to be the man', 'I've forgotten all of young loves joy', it's brilliant! Lyrically it's one of my favourite songs of all time!  

"You all look the same, everyone knows your name and that's your whole claim to fame" - Fuck Me Pumps | Again, this is another brilliantly written song! When the album 'Frank' came out, it was in a time where footballers wives were a massive thing, they were all over the tabloids, coming out with reality shows, writing books ect, and this song basically represents that time and kinda taking the mick and saying how it was everyone's 'dream' to become a footballers wife but, not hers.

"I couldn't resist him, his eyes were like yours" - I Heard Love Is Blind | This was the first song I ever heard from Amy Winehouse and oh my... that voice! It was the first time I ever properly experienced Jazz and she made me fall in love with it, just by the tone in her voice and her beautiful songs.

"And it's not just my pride, It's just till these tears have dried" - Rehab | Rehab was by far the best selling single Amy ever released! I think it was so popular because, it was at that point that the world was so aware of Amy's issues and I think it was her way of kind of talking about the elephant in the room and just putting it out there that yes, I was gunna go to rehab but, I said no. Which is just such a huge statement for any artist to make. I also think it was so popular because, at that time people were kind of opening their eyes to drug and alcohol addiction and a lot of famous celebrities entered rehab because of these issues and came out reformed. It's definitely one of those songs that can be interpreted in different ways.    

"I cheated myself, like I knew I would. I told you I was trouble, you know that I'm no good" - You Know I'm No Good | This song, tells a story about being in a relationship and cheating on the person your with, after you've warned them that it's bound to happen, I'm no good ect, then the twist is that the person your with is kind of like that too and together this destructive relationship forms and they both become 'trouble'. I love the meaning behind this song, it's very raw and real. I just like the overall vibe.

"Though you're a gambling man, love is a losing hand" - Love Is A Losing Game | 'Back to Black' was very different from the debut 'Frank', it was slightly more poppy and mainstream, though she does go back to her Jazz roots with this song. The song represents, I guess, being in a relationship and both getting nothing from it and have therefore 'lost' the game that is love. It's a very pretty song and beautifully sung.

"He walks away, the sun goes down, he takes the day but I'm grown" - Tears Dry On Their Own | This is a very empowering song about walking away from a relationship and how it was eventually going end in tears but, by walking away, your 'tears dry on their own' because they're are no tears, if that makes sense? That's how I see it anyway. It's also my favourite one listening to live, whenever I'm on YouTube listening to music I'll always put on a live version as apposed to studio, as her vocals sound amazing on this track, her voice is so raw and edgy.. I love it!

"We only said goodbye with words, I died a hundred times" - Back To Black | Back to black, is a pretty intense and dramatic song, about mourning a relationship or a loss, as you know they've cheated and somehow their not the same and you can try and pour yourself into the relationship but, at the end of the day they'll keep cheating and the relationship will come to an end, which can be pretty heart breaking.

Well, there you have it! That's my thoughts on Amy Winehouse, I love her! She has had her ups and her downs but, at the end of the day it was all about the music for her and that just speaks for itself. Even though she only put out 2 albums, they are amazing! And if you haven't got them already, then you need to at least check them out! 

Tunes Tuesday | Kesha Is Free

 "#‎KeshaIsFree‬ Just heard the  news that Sony is going to drop  Dr. Luke from his contract, meaning that Kesha and any other artists that have been poorly mistreated by Dr. Luke are free. Thank you Kesha for showing bravery in sharing your story, you have demonstrated to anyone who has been sexually abused that there is hope and justice will be served"

 

- Taken from my Instagram March 9th

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I'm sure you've all been following or are aware of, the lawsuit between Kesha and Dr. Luke. If you haven't let me fill you in. A couple of years back Kesha entered rehab for an eating disorder, she was under an unseen amount of pressure from her record label and management to lose weight. The main man behind all of this was Dr. Luke. At her most vulnerable time Dr. Luke took advantage of Kesha and sexually, physically, verbally and emotionally abused her. For the last couple of years Kesha and her team, were determined to take this case to court, so she could be released from her contract. Last month there was a court hearing and the outcome was, that Kesha could not be released from her contract. Social media went crazy and support flooded in for Kesha from fans and fellow musicians, the hashtag #FreeKesha was born. She later posted a short statement on Instagram saying "I am beyond words in gratitude. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have ... The support I have received has left my face swollen from tears. I love you all so much." - This past week has been by far a great turnover for Kesha and her appeal. March 6th she was honoured by the Human Rights Campaign for the visibility award. Her die hard support for the LGBTQ community was recognised and honoured at the event and during her acceptance speech she touched upon the issues she has been facing saying, "I just wanted to address, thank you, I'm sure you'll know I'm going through some personal things, that has been really intense and hard recently, so thank you for all of your support." - to see her full acceptance speech click here. Days after she was honoured the visibility award, Sony made the decision to drop Dr. Luke from his contract. Meaning that Kesha never has to work with him again and is free from abuse.

 

When I heard the news it touched a chord with me. I can't believe just what Kesha went through these past couple of years, not only facing the abuse but, having to move past it in the spotlight. Kesha's bravery in sharing her story truly inspires me and has done for a lot of other people too. She's a warrior and I respect her for that. I remember when Tik Tok came out, I would always be playing it and singing it around school to the point that it kinda became 'my song'. She became kinda like my idol when I was 13/14 years old. I love her music, her style, her personality and that she doesn't give a fuck about what people think of her. She spreads such a positive message about loving yourself, being yourself and being accepting of others. She is a true inspiration. She's had her ups and downs but, I think the future is only going to look bigger, better and brighter for Kesha. She has my full support and I wish her all a whole lot of happiness.

 

We can all take something from Kesha's story and her message. It's so important to be kind to one another and to not apologise for being yourself.

 





Tunes Tuesday | Foxes | All I Need REVIEW

It's no secret that I LOVE, the singer Foxes aka Louisa Rose Allen. She inspired my recent new hair do, I cried when I saw her preform live last year at the Watering Hole and not to mention she strongly influences the kind of music I write. When I write I often find myself thinking what would Lou do? How would the production sound? How would she put this in a way that's not to full on? I really look up to her and I really respect her as an artist, she turned her hobby into a passion and a successful career. Well done Lou!

{Taken from Lou's Instagram @iamfoxes}

If you haven't already heard of Foxes, well then let me tell you! She is a London bound singer/songwriter and has been since she was 18. Her influences include Bjork, Patti Smith and of course Kate Bush, whom inspires a lot of her vocals. I'd describe her music as indie/pop and I'd describe her style as charity shop chic, which is just brilliant! She always looks amazing and I totally envy her for that. Her debut album 'Glorious', was by far one of the best albums I've ever bought! And to hear my thoughts on that, check out this throwback blog post by clicking here.

{Of course I pre-ordered the signed copy! How amazing does Lou look on the album's artwork, she's absolutely stunning}

Now, onto my review of her BRAND NEW album 'All I Need'... Yep, you guessed it, I LOVE IT!! It's definitely more personal than her first album and in a recent interview, she stated that she wrote a lot of the album after a 'bad break-up'. It just goes to show that it makes her music more relatable and really creates a stronger connection with her fans because of it. I think the album as a whole, is like a rollercoaster, of the ups and downs of being in a relationship, and she gets really deep and personal and I applaud her for that, it takes some guts to be so open about her relationship. What can I say, music heals all wounds. The songs that stood out to me are..


"You give me that dumb old line, what can we do to stay side by side" - Lose My Cool | I'd say this is a really playful song, of the will they, won't they factor? When you fancy someone and kind of wanting them to look in your direction and kind of say that they're interested too. You kind of play hard to get for a while and just act cool. Then it gets to the point were, you kind of 'lose your cool' and your guard drops and you're like ok, are we a thing? And you finally admit that you like them and you see a future with this person.

"And I got faith, saying it will be ok. Step by step, I know I'll make it through" - Feet Don't Fail Me Now | This is a very empowering song, when you get to that point in a relationship and your not 100% in it and your thinking of leaving. The whole metaphor of 'feet don't fail me now, you're all I got', is basically saying I put my all into this relationship and it failed, now I'm relying on my feet to walk out and leave you because, I deserve something better. It's beautiful, not to mention an amazing song to go along with the H&M campaign, which Foxes featured in. Also, a massive fan of the video, I love all of the Billy Elliot references!

"Now you're just a scar, a story I tell, such an ugly mark, but I wear it so well" - Scar | This is one of my favourite songs by far, ever! It's definitely one of those that can mean different things to different people, it could be anything from the grieving period after a relationship, to an actual physical scar, after being in such a dark, intense relationship. It's beautifully written and Lou's vocals sound AMAZING on this track!

"It's almost like slow motion suicide, watching your devil side get between you and me" - Devil Side | Intense, powerful and moving. It has similar references and themes to 'Scar'. Often in relationships you'll find yourself falling in love, a the person you thought you once loved, can change overtime and sometimes it can be good and in other times it can be bad. This is like a plea, to get back to the good times, of being in love and happy and not having to worry about his 'devil side' but, then that can also flip, and you could say that it was the 'devil side' that drew you in but, once you were in, you wanted out and just got overwhelmed at the extent of his 'devil side'. It's genius and once again extremely relatable.

"Days like these, I can't even speak like la la la" - Body Talk | I like to think of this as a really great post-breakup song, where your at that point, everyone is asking why did you break-up, what happened ect? and you don't wanna talk about it, so you get yourself all dolled up for with the girls and put on your heels and just strut. Head out to a club or a bar and just dance, have a good time and put a pause talking about it. I love it!


There we have it! I hope you guys liked my take on the album, I obviously give it a solid 10/10!! Let me know in the comments what songs you've been loving from Foxes brand new album, 'All I Need' and if this post encouraged you to go out and buy it (which you totally should).

Tunes Tuesday | Tegan & Sara | The Con REVIEW

There's no need for me to ramble on, about how much I love the Canadian dynamic duo that is, Tegan & Sara (however if you're looking for that post please click here). The first record of there's that I ever owned was the iconic 'Heartthrob', I basically loved it so much that I wanted to get all of their records and just listen to them on repeat all day everyday! I then asked for their record, 'The Con' for Christmas, which I then got, and well I LOVE IT! Before getting this record I had already heard a few of the songs on it and loved what I heard but, the record as a collective is just brilliant! One of the things I most love about Tegan and Sara, is their song writing ability, their lyrics are like nothing I've ever heard before and continue to wow me, every time I listen to a new song. I also love, that their not pop, they're more indie/rock, which is something very different to the music being played on the radio (or in modern terms streamed on Spotify). I just love them and I feel like if you've never owned or heard a Tegan and Sara song before, then this record, 'The Con', is the perfect place for you to start.

My top favourite songs from this record include..

"When I jerk away, from holding hands with you, I know these habits hurt, important parts of you" - Back In Your Head.

"I feel you in my heart and I don't even know you. And now we're saying bye." - Nineteen.

"Dark you can't come soon enough for me. Saved from one more day of misery." - Dark Come Soon.

"Calm down, I'm calling you to say I'm capsized, erring on the edge of safe." - The Con.

All of those songs are definitely worth checking out if you haven't already heard them, as well of course, the album 'The Con' and while your there check out 'Heartthrob' too! I can't think of any other deserving artists then these guys, I love them to bits and wish them all the success in the world! I'm also very excited for the new album, which was announced in early December that #LP8 is complete! Now all we need is the album released date and UK tour dates please!! Thanks for reading, have a good day! 

Tunes Tuesday | R.I.P | A Few Words For David Bowie

 

8/01/1947 - 10/01/2016 

  

A week ago we lost, the icon, the legend and the man that is David Bowie.

 

I can't put into words how much love I have for him and his music. One of the first albums I ever owned, was a compilation CD of his greatest hits, well I say I owned it, I think I stole it off of my mum or my dad. The first memory I have of Bowie was his part as the goblin king in the movie Labyrinth. I think I was about 4/5 years old, when I first saw the film and I instantly fell in love with it, I still do to this day, I can even quote it word for word. I then remember seeing an older performance of his on top of the pops, which must have been influenced by my dad as he always had it on telly and I remember thinking that 'the goblin king' looked funny and that interested me. I started listening to more of Bowies songs and I remember thinking that he was kind of like my idol because, he pushed boundaries not only with music but with fashion, and fashion always interested me from a young age. It took me a while to realise that all of the footage and TV performances I was watching of Bowie was from the 60's and 70's back in his Ziggy Stardust period. It must have been the late 90's for me, back when boybands were all the rage and I thought 'he doesn't look like anything from a boy band' and that really resonated with me because, from a young age I always felt like I was different from my peers and Bowie kinda taught me that, that was ok, and I didn't have to be following the crowd and listen to the backstreet boys, that I can be different and it wasn't all about the music I listened too but, about everything, from fashion, to learning how to deal with negativity. He taught me a lot and I hope that some good can come from his passing, and the lessons that Bowie taught me when I was a kid can now be passed onto the upcoming generation.  

 

"I don't know where I'm going from here but, I promise it won't be boring" - David Bowie