Late Night Music NFL Playoffs Edition Part 27......................"All Star Charity Singles"

DISCLAIMER- Please do not get upset about me making light of the serious issues many of these songs dealt with. All of these respective songs served their purpose of raising money/awareness.

However, we all like to see the "all star" singles where the stars come together to record the supergroup smash hit that we see over and over and over again. When this happens, we can always go back in time to see who was "famous" enough to actually be included on these songs. In some cases, it's quite comical to see. Again, please take all comments with a grain of salt and remember even God has a sense of humor.............just look at the platypus.

MTV All Stars- "What's Going On?". This Marvin Gaye classic was covered in 2001 to raise money for AIDS awareness. I've never been much of the political statement type, but I really like this video's message of diversity and how the AIDS epidemic could effect any of the people which are depicted on the blindfolds. Very well written and directed. However, could have done without Ja Rule. I have to just ask Ja Rule about this video...."what would it be without you?".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OyTy9ns894M

Northern Lights- "Tears Are Not Enough". Ok, I've had my jokes about this one already, (see "Pass Me The Puck, I'm a Canuck"), but it never gets old. In the wake of "We Are The World" and "Do They Know It's Christmas", Canada felt the need to jump on the charity single bandwagon and record this surprisingly good song. However, I will seriously give anyone $100 if they can name EVERY ARTIST in this video WITHOUT looking. I mean, even a music junkie like me STRUGGLES on this one. I am good with about half of them. This song gets bonus points for having the phrase in French. Also a HUGE LOL at "let's show them Canada still cares".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJN3u1wAWIk

United Artists Against Apartheid- "Sun City". Ok, like most of these songs, I am not making light of the issue. Apartheid is one of the most heinous acts of ethnic cleansing in the history of the world. With that being said, why in the world would some of these artists be anywhere NEAR Sun City? Ok, I'll give Run DMC, The Boss (who finds a point to make his way on to every charity single somehow), George Clinton, and MAYBE David Ruffin and Eddie Kendricks. However, no one else in this song is gonna play Sun City anyway, so they can sing about it all they want, because even now that Apartheid is long gone, they can keep singing "I-I-I-I ain't gonna play Sun City"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjWENNe29qc

Band Aid- "Do They Know It's Christmas". You knew this one was coming. I find it almost hilarious that this "British" effort for relief included Kool and the Gang. For the longest time, I thought they were British just because they were on this single. My only question is why Paul Young gets to sing so much on this song. Seriously, the dude had one hit!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jEnTSQStGE

Voices That Care- "Voices That Care". This song recorded in 1991 was recorded as a tribute to the troops serving in the first Gulf War in Desert Storm (which included my uncle as a captain in the Navy). Maybe it's just me, but I think Luther should have recorded this song as a solo single. This song gets bonus points for including the Pointer Sisters- for some reason they always crack me up. This song lost credibility for me when Mike Tyson (prior rape conviction) appeared singing the song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ol6vr5_CY1o

Dionne Warwick and Friends- "That's What Friends Are For". This Burt Bacharach song was actually covered in 1985 to be the first of the AIDS-related charity songs. I always enjoyed the actual song as well as the comical value of the video. First of all, the random hugs Elton John gives everyone. This was before EJ was out of the closet fully, so he must have been married at the time. No other guy could get away with that many hugs to other women. Second, Elton John's 1985 mullet is quite possibly the worst fashion statement in the history of music.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGbnua2kSa8

USA For Africa- "We Are The World". The trivia surrounding this song is incredible. First, most people don't know Waylon Jennings walked out of the recording due to a lyrics dispute. Second, the song was recorded immediately following the American Music Awards just due to having all the artists together. Also, Michael Jackson refused to appear on the single unless he wrote the song (which he did with Lionel Richie) and his family appeared on the recording (which as you can see, they all did). Despite what you all think, I think the real star of this whole effort was Quincy Jones. Who else could arrange a song for that many spoiled prima donnas and make it work? Also- random fact- Dan Akroyd performs on the song......and he's Canadian.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9BNoNFKCBI

Band Aid 20- "Do They Know It's Christmas". The 20th anniversary of the original, with Bono reviving his old line from 20 years prior. I really like this version- LOTS of up and coming British artists in this one. I'll double my offer from the Canada video if you can name all of these artists without looking.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jo9jCJCgk5o

United Artists Against Cancer- "Just Stand Up". Ok, I realize the seriousness of breast cancer in this country, and please know that I am not making light of the message of the song. However, think about the following- first- what in the WORLD is up with Beyonce's hair? Seriously? Second- Fergie and Miley Cyrus almost ruin the song. Where did Fergie learn to pronounce her english? Maybe Miley got too excited, but thank God Mary J and Mariah Carey save it for them at the end. Also, is it just me, but what are Ashanti and Ciara are even doing on stage? Are they even singing? Also, most of you know how much I love Nicole Scherzinger, but doesn't she look scared to be on stage? I thought she was an interesting choice to replace Sheryl Crow on this song (who is on the recorded version- as was Lee Ann Rimes and Melissa Etheridge), but MAN she is HOT!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sa89kBxl0VU

BONUS VIDEO- Various Chinese Artists- "Hand In Hand". Sorry, I couldn't resist. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zsIyzhXY1X0

Band Aid 20

our Canadian friends showing us they still care

We Are the World.....but we aren't looking at the camera

Just Stand Up!

Late Night Music Welcome Back for the Spring Semester Edition Part 26.............."Girl Power"

I have to give the ladies their props. I always love the female who can bring mad vocals, rock a guitar or a piano, and write the song all while being mothers, wives, and the powerful women that keep men straight in every sense of the word. Obviously, I can never know what it is like to put forth feminine greatness, but the talent these ladies drip with is truly something to behold. Unfortunately, some females don't get the credit they deserve in being musical starlets. Our category tonight focuses on female artists who perform solo and write their own music. You have to do both to be considered for tonight's list. Enjoy, this one is for you ladies!

Also receiving votes in the category were- "Say It Again" by Marie Digby, "Building a Mystery" by Sara McLachlan, "I Wish I Wasn't" by Heather Headley, and "Hands" by Jewel.

Sheryl Crow- "If It Makes You Happy". This has got to be the best Sheryl Crow ever looked in a video. (If not I would have chosen the "All I Wanna Do" video which was actually filmed right here in Clarksville. Oh well, maybe another day.) I love this song, and I love the way she mixes the sexy look with the hard rock song. However, what in the world is she doing in a museum? Is she supposed to be an exhibit or is she beating Ben Stiller to his part in his movie?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyihQtBes1I

Sara Bareilles- "Gravity". I would like everyone to know that I was into Sara Bareilles long before she was on the radio with "Love Song". This has long been my favorite song by her and it really shows her songwriting and piano playing skills. Sara Bareilles, to me in alot of ways, seems like the new Nora Jones. Speaking of Nora Jones................

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLHQ4H93P2Q

Laura Izibor- "Shine". Definitely one of my favorite new female artists. Laura Izibor (who most people don't know is Irish) This song is awesome on so many levels as well as the video. Another talented piano player, look for Laura Izibor to become HUGE very soon.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=equvoqUT1VM

Jill Scott- "A Long Walk". I bought her debut CD "This Is Jill Scott" my freshman year of college and have never stopped loving Jill Scott. I love the tangibility of this video and its almost believable that you are walking with her. I think Jill Scott has a great personality and her nerdiness adds so much to her music and this video. I do also like the end of the video being very underwhelming. It almost kept you waiting.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSYMKUtNuw8

India Arie- "I Am Not My Hair". Simply unreal. I really want to see India Arie live. She KILLS this song!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZH6lKxA_q0

Tori Amos- "Somewhere Over The Rainbow". I realize Tori Amos is strange and that she can't sit straight at a piano bench, but I am never short of amazed of how she can add such diverse style to songs of any genre (see "did they just cover THAT?"), including this Judy Garland classic. But, I will say she is still STRANGE.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JB2I5refJec

Madonna- "Secret". This was always one of my favorite Madonna songs because it wasn't her typical "pop song". Not to mention, the video has a about on a scale of 1-10, an 11 on the "slutty" scale. However, Madonna shows her diversity with this song and if you ask me, this was a turning point in her career, as this ushered in an overall change in her sound that is still felt today. By the way, for all of you Austin Peay people, is it just me, or does the guitar player look just like Carl Moseley?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmE8kifaXD0

Nora Jones- "Shoot The Moon". I told you we would come back to her! This song, from her debut award winning album, has always been and will always be my favorite NJ song. I couldn't find a "video" for it, but I really like this video. It really makes you think about the real meaning of the song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StbH6yIAGak

Colbie Caillat- "Oxygen". One of the forgotten songs on her debut album "Coco". This song is a perfect example of how great female singer/songwriters don't just write "I hate men" songs. Beautiful song here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YG39SJZ_ns

Vivian Green- "Emotional Rollercoaster". Vivian Green is a beautiful woman, but can she please wear something that isn't "advertising" herself? I got into Vivian Green in 2004 and she is one of the main driving forces into my headfirst dive into jazz music. Her jazz chords and smooth jazz voice is pretty addictive. Enjoy the video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63TudFk9-u8

Brittini Black- "Good Happens". Ok,I had to add this up and coming artist who I have seen perform here in Nashville. I really love this song, and if you click her myspace page below, you can hear some of her other songs including "I'm So There"- my personal favorite. Plus, she is DROPDEAD gorgeous and her band is incredible. Give Brittini Black a serious listen.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXFgy4xaA1o

http://www.myspace.com/brittiniblack

BONUS VIDEO-

India Arie and Musiq Soulchild- "Chocolate High". Another India Arie collaboration with her ex-boyfriend Musiq Soulchild. What a great music combo! Yes, I realize I am white and might be lacking the "Chocolate High", and any ability to have rhythm- sorry guys, life doesn't come with a menu.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3F8R-vBB4O4

Colbie Caiillat will always be my little blonde bombshell

The Queen of acoustic soul

Yes, I liked her before she was awesome

The original rocker chick

Sure she looks 12 years old......but she's awesome

Late Night Music Part 25................."More Cover Songs"

Nothing clever really this time folks, just thought I'd give tribute to tribute songs lol. Some of these were left off my last cover song piece, as they could be considered "unconventional", but I am nonetheless impressed with all of these covers, as they all contain a hint of the original not taking away from the original songwriter's work. One of my favorite hobbies on a boring weekend is to listen to cover songs and compare how they sound. I did that this weekend and came up with the following list.

Beyonce- "Honesty". Beyonce surprisingly gives a great rendition of this Billy Joel classic. I like the fact that Beyonce added her own element to the song, but still kept the song close to its original sound thus honoring Billy Joel. Great slideshow on this video- have I mentioned Beyonce is one of the most beautiful women alive?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iB6Ypr2fPc

Mariah Carey- "I Want To Know What Love Is". Leave it to Mariah Carey to add yet another great cover to her repertoire. This 1984 Foreigner power ballad fits her voice pleasantly, and like Beyonce, she does a great job keeping alot of the original elements of the song keeping it as a tribute to Lou Gramm with a few of her own elements added. Again, let me also say that Mariah Carey is one of the most beautiful women alive.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kEezh9A5atY


"Careless Whisper"- For some reason, this song from Wham!'s illustrious career seems to be a cover favorite. In fact, it goes across the spectrum as far as genres. Here is a great soulful version from Tamia (again, one of the most beautiful women alive- AND in the top 5 of the hottest sports wives being Mrs. Grant Hill). Also, the dark rock version by Seether- great guitar solo taking the place of the saxophone.


Tamia- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-4AQa5MRJg

Seether- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7imqO-OBVk

Phantom Planet- "Our House". This one is really cool, because if you listen to Phantom Planet, especially their signature song "California", this cover of the Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young classic (which was written for Joni Mitchell) is a huge break from the norm of Phantom Planet's usual sound. However, I like the originality they bring to this video and to the song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZhfiZ4Rr1o

Faith No More- "Easy". Everyone remembers Faith No More from their controversial video for their hit song "Epic", but this heavy metal group covering the Commodores is one of those cover songs that really leaves you scratching your head.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqdan_NA0iA

Metallica- "Turn The Page". This one's for you, Kreslyn. Probably my favorite on the list. You almost feel like Bob Seger wrote this song for Metallica to cover. James Hetfield does a fantastic job of making this song flow from one genre to another.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOibtqWo6z4

Poison- "Sexy Back". Ok, I had to throw it in- but seriously how funny is this?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPiHZUhUIpM

Alanis Morissette- "King of Pain". From Alanis's "Unplugged" live album, this was cool because Alanis Morissette was, and always has been a pure singer/songwriter, RARELY if ever covering songs. Even the best songwriters have to pay homage to their influences.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShZd6SxdaZk

Shaw-Blades- "Your Move". These two former members of Damn Yankees do a great rendition of the classic Yes hit here live. The studio version of this song is also great. This would be the first case ever of a band that I really don't like doing a cover I really like.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kl2HIpPcHMo

Boyz II Men- "I Can't Make You Love Me". From the new Boyz II Men album "Love". They absolutely are majestic on this Bonnie Raitt cover. I remember a few things about this song. First, I heard it probably 100 times in the UK during our trip there for spring break 1995. No, I am not exaggerating, the Brits love this song! Second, love the version in the movie "Duets". Finally, I have a weak spot for a female singing this song karaoke.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qNwra0cXjk

Relient K- "Manic Monday". Just something about a punk rock band that is unbelievably dorky already doing a song by the Bangles. Really solid version here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdY4rldNKb0

Late Night Music Finals Week Edition Part 24................"Blame It On The Boogie"

The more I listen to funk music, I don't see how I could have possibly have made it through the late 60's, 70's, and even early 80's without constantly dancing. Is any kind of music more a big party than funk? You have all the elements of a rock band not to mention mean brass sections, crazy guitar riffs, and so much of the technological influence we have on music today. While lots of the British Invasion of the 60's was black and white, funk brought color, color, and lots more color. Funk music is about adding color to your life and dancing away your worries. Just for clarification, this is NOT a disco category.

Also receiving votes in this category were: "You Dropped the Bomb On Me" by the Gap Band, "Strokin'" by Clarence Carter, "The Electric Slide", and "Don't Change Horses" by Tower of Power.

Stevie Wonder- "Superstition". Stevie Wonder had just emerged from his "child star" status of the 1960's Motown age when 1973's "Superstition" came around. I've always been amazed with Stevie and his uncanny ability to throw out piano licks while being 100% blind. He's also had an amazing ability to re-invent himself as a singer over and over and over again which has kept him near the tops of the charts throughout his entire career. Also, I know it's an easy target for comedians, but his unusual head movements are actually cues to his band.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDZFf0pm0SE

Temptations- "Psychedelic Shack". As the 1960's ended and the 1970's started, many of the Motown and soul groups had to change their sound as the "lover's lament" soft harmonizing era was over. The Temptations were not exempt of this inevitable change either. Even after the success of their 1968 Grammy Winning "Cloud Nine", the Temps ventured into the world of funk with 1969's "Psychedelic Shack" which is one of the few Temptations songs which actually features ANY solo lines sung by Otis Williams.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5AYQda3nz4

Funkadelic- "I'll Stay". Never been a big George Clinton fan. I realize his pioneering sound and songwriting is without a doubt influential (alot of HBCU marching bands point to Parliament/Funkadelic as their main influences), or maybe I just am freaked out by his ridiculous hair. Anyway, you can't help but get up and dance to this song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5r3EGpIToOA

Cameo- "Candy". One of the last funk dance hits, "Candy" took 1987 by storm and is still a minor hit on the club circuit. Quick- all of my movie buffs out there- what movie does this song ALWAYS make you think of? Hint- I have stated that is the best African American movie ever made are more than one occasion. I couldn't find a video for this song, but tell me if the guy on the left side of the group on this album cover doesn't look like Steve Harvey.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUiSkgkkr0A

Sly and The Family Stone- "Family Affair". I have always been fascinated by Sly and The Family Stone. Seriously, look at these guys- are they not some of the most strange individuals you have ever seen? These guys got engulfed in the 1970's before 70's even started (if that's possible). However, this song can't help but make ya feel good!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RmKBFND9SY

The Commodores- "Brick House". You know if they aren't talking about a woman, they could always be talking about Lionel Richie's afro.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5EmnQp3V48

Kool and The Gang- "Get Down On It". I LOVE this song! This song is everything I love about funk music. Kool and the Gang simply wanted everyone to ENJOY LIFE. Get off the wall and get down on IT! Besides that, I really like Kool and the Gang's instrumental arrrangements, and I love this video that show the whole 1978 "we are trying to be high tech" attitude. Don't watch too many times, it might hurt your eyes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_2m-4e4tyA

Con Funk Shun- "Love's Train". WOW! What a band! Con Funk Shun always had the unfortunate luck of being around at the EXACT same time as Earth Wind and Fire and Kool and the Gang. Sigh, the inconvenience of being human. I absolutely love this live performance as well! Michael Cooper always came to party and in my opinion, is very underrated as a lead singer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9N8GNwLEd0

Earth, Wind, and Fire- "September". Like there was any question about this one. The KINGS of funk, and still a hot ticket across the world, I would have to put Earth, Wind, and Fire as #1 on my list of "artists I want to see live that I haven't seen yet" just ahead of Hootie and the Blowfish. Seriously, even at their age they still have youthful performance ability and are spectacular musicians and artists. Now, I've never been a fan of their clothes, but how can you listen to these guys and not want to dance, dance, dance! Side note- please note the similarity in the last 2 videos.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iknEJf9cPeY

The Jackson Five- "Blame It On The Boogie". Ok, you know I had to have my obligatory J5 video, as you know I'm a gigantic J5 fan! I think Michael Jackson put it best when he simply said that you don't blame it on the sunshine, don't blame it on the moonlight, don't blame it on the good times, just blame it on the boogie! Also, PLEASE notice the similarity in the last 3 videos!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjW1iq4IO2k

Bonus Video- "Blame It On The Rain"- Milli Vanilli. If all else fails, blame it on the rain.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwrL9MV6jSk

Michael, in one of his last appearances as a black man.

One big happy "family"

I could get lost in their music............and their afros

Late Night Music Part 23....................."Obscure Beatles Songs"

Ok everyone claims to be a Beatles "fan". However, these people only know the many hits that the greatest band ever had. Granted, that's alot of songs, but what about their full repertoire which showed their true musical talent? Lots of bands have unknown songs that only the true fans know, and that's always part of the music business, but the "other songs" by the Beatles are some of the best songs ever recorded, and you would like to think they could have reached #1 just as easy as the other TWENTY ONE #1 singles they had. In order to qualify for this list, the song had to be A- BY the Beatles, and B- NOT AN A SIDE SINGLE at any point in the Beatles career.

Also receiving votes in this category were- "Everybody's Got Something To Hide Except For Me And My Monkey", "The Fool On The Hill", "Don't Bother Me", "What Goes On", and "Octopus's Garden".

"The Inner Light"- The B Side of the 1968 single "Lady Madonna", this George Harrison song is a rare combination of his Indian side coming out with the sitar and his rock n roll roots. I would have liked to have seen this song performed live as I think the guitar and the sitar would make a great combo. Interesting fact- this song was the first Harrison composition to be featured on ANY side of a single (he wouldn't have an A Side until 1969's "Something").

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhHm-5lKkZ0

"It's Only a Northern Song"- Pretty good segue here, this song, also by Harrison recorded in 1967 during the "Sergeant Pepper" sessions, was featured on the soundtrack of the animated "Yellow Submarine". The song is an obvious shot at the Beatles publishing company "Northern Songs" which basically gave Ringo and George chump change while giving John and Paul nearly all of the songwriting money. George took out his frustration on them with this song. Just shows how powerful they were that they could actually record this song about their publishing company for their publishing company.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfeK-p3UhIg

"Your Mother Should Know"- Unless you were one of the few unfortunate souls who suffered through the Beatles made for TV movie "Magical Mystery Tour" which only aired in the UK, and was received with such bad reviews, the American silver screen release never happened. However, while it has become somewhat of a "cult classic", the soundtrack for the movie has become more and more obscure. This song here, with clips from the movie, is one of my favorite Paul compositions.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euMCu5IRRHM

"You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)"- This song, which became part of Beatle's lore, was the penultimate B Side of all Beatles singles, being the B side of "Let It Be" released in 1970. According to John and Paul, the sillyness came from them throwing together alot of songs that were unfinished. This is obvious with the several changes in genre of the song. The best part is that it seriously took them 3 years to record this song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=on3XBTouSf0

"Yes It Is"- In 1965, while the Beatles were riding high on Beatlemania and behind the success of their blockbuster movie/album "Help!", the Beatles were desperate to show off their musicianship to find an even broader audience. For the B Side of "Ticket To Ride", they showed off their harmony skills in "Yes It Is". While it's always been one my favorites, John Lennon said more than once that this was one of his least favorite songs he ever wrote.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0t3-u1tv1W8

"Hey Bulldog"- Another song from the "Yellow Submarine" soundtrack, the original name of the song was "Hey Bullfrog" until Paul decided to bark in the studio. I would have liked to have seen this song be included on "Abbey Road" or even "Let It Be" just because it's that good. This is the ONLY Beatles song to feature a piano riff.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UaRz-3DYV7c

"I'll Be Back". One of the lesser known songs from "A Hard Day's Night!" which was also featured in the film, this song had the unfortunate luck of being stuck around many Beatles favorites. This song sounds pretty easy, but if you listen to the "Anthology" versions of the song, you would know that John Lennon had to change the meter of the song several times just because the bridge was so hard to sing and play in 3/4 time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9hO25z1Fu8

"Baby's In Black"- Beatles For Sale. This was always one of the Beatles favorite songs to play live, and while it was a concert favorite, many people forget about the song and the album "Beatles For Sale" just because of it's relative "dropping" in between "A Hard Day's Night" and "Help!". Interesting fact- John and Paul used this song as one of the first songs in recording history to have both lead vocals recorded in one microphone. Several years later, Paul was asked which one was the melody line. He answered "they both were".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SizmZmDYSfA

"Lovely Rita". Ok, it's hard to put a song arguably the most famous album of all time on any kind of "obscure" list, but for some reason, the "casual" Beatles fan that has all the "hits" down pat, seems to get lost when I talk about this song. Featured on "Sergeant Pepper" this song was actually inspired by Paul McCartney getting a parking ticket at Abbey Road during recording in 1966. He thought the meter maid was so hot, he wanted to take her on a date. Yes, I know the proper word now is "parking lot attendant".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asQbxyN-REs

"Savoy Truffle". Interesting observation. So many people talk about how great "The White Album" was, but no one seems to know the songs or their meanings. This George Harrison composition which featured a saxophone sextet was written about band friend Eric Clapton (who had played the guitar on "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" on the same album) and his unhealthy addiction to chocolate. What he would have "all pulled out after the Savoy Truffle" are his teeth.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ9Efb4C21E

"Rocky Raccoon". Another one of my White Album favorites, Paul wrote this song because he said he wanted to write a song "about a cowboy". The album version is featured here along with a hilarious "Anthology" take which features a huge screw up by Paul McCartney quickly turning the song into hilarity instead of the serious take that it was. Just think about how much studio time these guys burned up!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjFZ5ORMW3M
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VG_Zwph1ivo

"One After 909". This song from "Let It Be" and also featured in the famous "Rooftop Concert" in 1969, was actually a song that was put off and put off and putt off all the way back as early as 1963 with the "With The Beatles" sessions. On an album filled with psychedelic hard rock, and big hit ballads, this was an interesting album filler going back to the Beatles roots.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54tURoPmZtE

"Rain"- this song from 1966 was featured on the B Side of "Paperback Writer", or as my mother so affectionately calls "Take a Back Right Turn", we see the Beatles begin to experiment with record engineering through distorted vocals. I still see this song as one of the turning points of the band.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwSUlgJ0css

Bonus Videos- It was only appropriate to put a NON obscure song on here. Also, I put 4 lesser known songs from each of the Beatles solo careers that can only be there to remind us how great they really are.

"Hey Jude". Like no one knows this one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BD3ovfZXO5Q

George Harrison- "All Things Must Pass". George actually recorded this song during the "Abbey Road" sessions, but it never made it album.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vm_N3bjqlr4

John Lennon- "Watching the Wheels". One of my favorite John Lennon songs that really wasn't that big. Great narrative song about his life.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qp9dc9im3-M

Paul McCartney- "My Love". Wings 1973 ballad hit- for my money, it still doesn't get any better than Paul McCartney on the piano ballad.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SB3x6KtNi4

Ringo Starr- "La De Da". Ringo's hit from his 1995 album "Vertical Man". This song just makes you feel good.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYMqUnzJOj0

Late Night Music Flag Football Championship/Lassiter's Wedding Edition Part 22 "Stadium Hits"

I've always said how much a great band adds to football, basketball, or any sport for that matter. I even think this as an official when a good song or good band really gets me excited about a game. The fact is, music adds so much to sports, and on the eve of the biggest night of intramural sports of the fall semester, I think it was appropriate to feature some of the best sports stadium songs that have ever been tooted through a tuba or played at halftime. Also, I think it's pretty appropriate with this being Lassiter's wedding week to remember some of our many many sports trips that revolved around a single event and the music that made those trips memorable- because it surely wasn't ever our teams winning. However, please let me clarify. In order to qualify for this category, a song had to A- NOT be associated with a certain school or team ("Go Cubs Go", and "Rocky Top" were both disqualified) and had to B- NOT be associated with a certain individual sport- please see NOT receiving votes below for details.

Also receiving votes in this category were: "Jump" by Van Halen, "The Final Countdown" by Europe, "Who Let The Dogs Out" by Baha Men, "We Will Rock You" by Queen, and the AC/DC songbook . NOT receiving votes in this category were "Centerfield" by John Fogerty, "Cheap Seats" by Alabama, any school fight song, and "I Believe I Can Fly" by R. Kelly.

Dave Matthews Band- "Ants Marching". In my many sports travels, as well as hear at Austin Peay, this Dave Matthews classic that really sounds great with a brass section. I've never been one of the big Dave Matthews-inites that worships at the throne of DMB, don't know why, just could never really get into him as an artist. I don't knock his talent or his spectacular band, just never clicked with me. That being said, this song adds alot to any halftime entertainment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5t7xE8yovw4

Paul Simon- "You Can Call Me Al". Another pep band classic, this song by Paul Simon on his "Graceland" album and the hilarious video with Chevy Chase is not only a great song and groundbreaking video, it's also great with a brass section (which is also featured on the Paul Simon version). Also, for the young version of me, this was one of the first music videos that showed me that "no they aren't really singing" in the video. Chevy Chase was such a random pick for this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULjCSK0oOlI

Bruce Channel- "Hey Baby". A marching/pep band favorite across the country with the famous sing along chorus, was actually recorded by Bruce Channel and later by Beatle Ringo Starr (I know you did NOT know that) and while it's short kinda silly, something about this song makes us all sing along and act like we are going to help our team win when we sing this song. Watch and see if you can resist.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4w1Mp6Mce4&feature=fvw

P Diddy, Nelly, and Murphy Lee- "Shake Ya Tailfeather". Sleeper pick here. While I was at USM and this song was big, the USM "Pride of Mississippi" played this song regularly and it soon caught on at other games I went to. Who would have thought Bad Boy Entertainment would cross into the marching band realm?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOYHz0PHcoU

Surfaris- "Wipeout". Ok, this song is SO stupid, but I seriously LOVE this drum part. This one really sticks out to me from APSU basketball games where we have the "Let's Go Peay!" cheer. Big misconception here is that the Beach Boys recorded this as an instrumental similar to their songs "karate" and "tequila". However, it was the Beach Boys knockoff group the Surfaris. Man I LOVE this drum part!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UofdWQG346k

The Temptations- "Get Ready". A high school football game fixture in the Mississippi area, this motown classic sounds so good with the tubas playing the bass line. Our high school band played this one alot and it always added so much to the atmosphere of the current game. Something very underrated is how good the Temptation's touring band in the 1960's really was.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQdSJXPDtjs

The Jacksons- "Blame It On The Boogie". I think with the recent death of Michael Jackson, he has become a more and more popular artist to cover, as I have heard be played by numerous marching bands at football games I have reffed everywhere around midstate. However, one of the forgotten songs by the brothers was on their 1978 album "Victory" and is featured here. Great harmony on the song can really sound good if played well by a good band. Interesting things about the video- HOW SCARED does Randy Jackson look to be in the group? Also, Tito looks lost without his guitar.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amN8UynV5pA

Snap!- "Rhythm Is A Dancer". Pretty unknown song, and honestly, even I, the music guru, don't know much about this song. However, I have heard this song performed by several bands and can sound really good with the right arrangement.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMPM1q_Uyxc

Gary Glitter- "Rock n' Roll Part 2". We all know this one as "the hey song". Gary Glitter sucked so bad as an artist that his only hit has one word in it. If you ever get really bored and want to have no regard for your ears/brain, take a listen to "Rock n' Roll Part 1"- you will NOT thank me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xd44PWZGzg

Village People- "YMCA". Funniest moment for me ever personally in sports was in 2000 at Yankee Stadium with the grounds crew dancing to this song while changing out the bases in the 5th inning. Still might be the ultimate stadium rocker.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CS9OO0S5w2k

Alan Parsons Project- "Sirius". Made famous by the Chicago Bulls in the early 90's- if this song doesn't pump you up you are absolutely stupid.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCR85u9QngQ


BONUS VIDEO- Jackson State University's "Sonic Boom of the South" (yes a band that is EXPONENTIALLY better than Tennessee State's "Aristocats"- everyone in Clarksville/Nashville, please stop telling me how great TSU's band is!) playing "Get Ready" in 2006. I'll always support my hometown band- and for my money, it still doesn't get any better than these talented men and women playing the Temptations classic!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgSqq4Nlfsg

Late Night Music Veterans Day Edition Part 21.........."Songs From The Heart"

I realize that most of you are probably expecting another dry comedic blog here. Well, I have plenty of them left in me, but this week always brings about a reflective mood that I really can't explain. Veterans Day is one of the most underrated holidays and some of these songs make me appreciate those men and women even more. With the recent passing of my grandfather this summer, who himself was a Marine Veteran of the 1930's, I have been a mood of reflection not only of his life, but of my own. To those of you who really know me, you can probably pick the time in my life that I have turned to these songs as a way for music to be my escape. Some of you may have even been there the first time. Some of you might think of these songs as "sad" but I don't think a single one of these songs are sad, they are POWERFUL, maybe you can get something out them if you didn't know them already. Sometimes you think you know a song, but it's that moment in your life where it really counts when the song really sets you on fire (in a good way). Maybe these songs can bring about that fire in you that you might need. If nothing else, take a listen, and you might find a song that you can really relate to. Unlike usual, I won't describe the songs, I'll just list them. Also, let me wish all of you veterans out there a terrific Veterans Day Week, as you deserve so much more than what you get. With that being said, here are 21 songs that have touched my life.

Mae- "Skyline Drive"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-SESDF2Ol8

Jack Johnson- "Breakdown"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySH9qfLTyaw

Howie Day- "Collide"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlzcVjzlfeI

Fountains of Wayne- "All Kinds of Time"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po2rkkLoESk

India Arie- "Ready for Love"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inQNN_Gl_cA

Colbie Caillat- "Realize"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9n2QkPpbFM

The Foo Fighters- "Miracle"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uydpjYShNfQ

Third Eye Blind- "How's It Going To Be?"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuAGVr-O-3E

Ben Folds- "Landed"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54eNjLgImLs

Mary J Blige- "Come To Me (Peace)"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOJlAVcDJ0Y

Coldplay- "Fix You"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skUJ-B6oVDQ

Dashboard Confessional- "As Lovers Go"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGeh43A_4H0

Caedmon's Call- "40 Acres"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Lioq4abjc0

Lifehouse- "Everything"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYP1gxC9G6A

MercyMe- "Word of God Speak"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqciEyNw1cE&feature=fvw

Fleetwood Mac- "Landslide"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f46rv5EWbAU

Better Than Ezra- "Breathless"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xA84qKxqEd8

Dave Hollister- "You Can't Say"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYP-AdxYS5o

Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men- "One Sweet Day"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzeMzo_4pxA

Alabama- "Angels Among Us"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPgtSVXi63I

Mason Douglas- "Home Free"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DegJDPE0Z0

Late Night Music Homecoming/Halloween Edition Part 20...................."1950's"

Most of you know or may not know my recent binge I've been on with big band and jazz in the last few weeks. I find the decade more and more interesting just due to the birthplace of modern music being more and more evident with pioneers in rock, country, soul, and jazz came to the forefront. Many performers in the 50's also had great longevity (or at least potential to be), and it's interesting to see their music evolve after their roots in the 1950's, or in some cases, they already had a successful career and the 50's was more of a crossroads. The 1950's also saw some of the first black musical superstars our country had ever seen which paved the way for so many young black artists today. So, if you want me to be honest, I think the 80's was the most fun decade of music, the 70's was the most thought provoking, the 60's was the best, the 90's the most commercial, but the 50's was the most IMPORTANT.

Also receiving votes in this category were "It's Only Make Believe" by Conway Twitty, "Long Tall Sally" by Little Richard, "Walkin' After Midnight" by Patsy Cline, and "Come Go With Me" by the Del-Vikings.

Ray Charles- "I Got A Woman". One of Ray Charles originals and one of his most well known songs. I love the way Ray Charles could play so many genres and be so great at all of them. I recently saw his exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame, and that with his biopic "Ray" really showed how gifted Ray Charles really was.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mrd14PxaUco

Chuck Berry- "Johnny B. Goode". One of the influences of the Beatles, Chuck Berry was black artist who brought black jazz and combined it with rock n' roll and country and to this day still brings high energy to the stage. Here is a pretty good live version of Chuck's most well known song. The only person who can touch this version is of course Michael J. Fox in "Back to the Future".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8enzt3JP-I

Nat King Cole- "Unforgettable". Nat King Cole was a pioneer on so many levels, and I dare you to find a more smooth and passionate voice. Obviously, this was Nat's best known song, but he had a lengthy career that would have bene longer if Cole wasn't a lifetime smoker. Few people remember that Nat King Cole was the first black man to ever have his own national TV show.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8tRTZIx298

Sam Cooke- "You Send Me". Sam Cooke burst onto the scene in 1957 with his smooth hit seen here. Most people know how I've mentioned that Sam Cooke is a fellow Mississippian, and even though his career was only 8 years long due to his tragic and still controversial death in 1964, he gave us alot of big hits. He has one of my all time favorite tenor voices ever, especially the bridge on this song. Still one of the best vocal riffs ever.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqzv1ZS6uZs

Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong- "They Can't Take That Away From Me". I have found myself really really into Ella Fitzgerald lately, and my recent dive into big band and jazz has really been the reason for that. She was a true jazz diva before the days of the current soul divas. Ella Fitzgerald obviously outsings the famous trumpet player on this song, but nonetheless a great version of the George and Ira Gershwin classic.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExmoiGZuiFQ

Isley Brothers- "Shout". These guys are still around- they've gained just a LITTLE bit of weight don't you think?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VL9xOLpwI0I

Elvis Presley- "All Shook Up". It would be impossible to do a list of this genre and leave off the king. Like Ray Charles, Elvis Presley (besides being a fellow Mississippian) was one of the first artists to be a true crossover due to his ability to draw crowds from all fan bases. I dare you to find more than about 5 more artists ever who have ever come close to that. What else would you expect from someone who learned to dance from Forrest Gump?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rQEbQJx5Bo

Frank Sinatra- "Young At Heart". Frank Sinatra had been around already for over a decade when he got back in the public eye with this hit that was more than a little ironic. For many years, many people considered Frank Sinatra the icon of American music just do to his smooth as silk delivery, and his heartfelt yet clever songs. This song is no exception. Sorry for the video- it was the best I could find.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bslSxYwgwlE

Buddy Holly- "That'll Be The Day". My head hurts thinking about how big Buddy Holly could have been had he not been on the ill-fated plane crash that claimed his life as well as the lives of Richie Valens and the Big Bopper. Another HUGE influence of the Beatles (part of the reason for their band name was based off of Buddy Holly and the Crickets, and for you Beatle-Maniacs out there, most of you know that one of the Beatles earliest recordings is this very song right here), Buddy Holly was well before his time, and is still very entertaining to watch to me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6X7GOnLUdY

Miles Davis and John Coltrane- "So What". I'll close with this jazz classic that sums up the 1950's just showing the raw talent these artists had. Just think in a few weeks, this decade will turn 60 years old. While the music has changed drastically, alot of the things these artists influenced all those years ago still remain.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4TbrgIdm0E

The icon

The superstar

The King

Late Night Music Part 19............."90's Rock Ballads"

It's my birthday week, and I was feeling really reminiscent so I decided to go with some of the rock ballads I grew up with. No fancy intro here folks, even the master runs out of ideas sometimes. However, just to clarify, no "POP" group was considered for this category- see the also receiving votes category below for clarification. I will add that is really interesting to see it is to get songs from all over the spectrum in this somewhat narrow genre.

Also receiving votes in this category were- "She Talks to Angels" by the Black Crowes, "Tears in Heaven" by Eric Clapton, "If You Could Only See" by Tonic, and "Ordinary World" by Duran Duran - NOT receiving votes in this category was anything by Chicago, Bryan Adams, REO Speedwagon, Robbie Williams, or Nickelback.

Collective Soul- "The World I Know". I couldn't find the video, but here is a pretty good live version of this song. The song is actually a great piece of songwriting by lead singer Ed Roland, as it is a picture of not being disillusioned or upset with your life, because in the grand scheme of things, it could be much worse. I really liked the jump to this genre from Collective Soul after early 90's heavy rock hits "December" and "Shine". These guys are still really big in the Washington, DC area.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDIYFeEwK4I

Live- "Lightning Crashes". You know, for the longest time, I thought Live was a British band. It took me seeing them live at Jubilee Jam in Jackson in 2004 that I realized they are from San Francisco- see? Learn something new every day! I would also like to add, that even though John Lassiter argued and argued with me about it, this could quite possibly be the only song I have ever even heard of that features the word "placenta". Seriously, I'm not joking.However, in all seriousness, this song is actually about a friend of the band who was killed by a robber fleeing a scene and the impact her donated organs had on so many people. Live was an ok band, but as we will talk about with other bands on this list, they are one of those rock bands that made their splash solely with ballad hits.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAMnjzU-6UQ

Third Eye Blind- "How's It Going To Be". Most of you know how much I love this band and how much this song means to me personally. Besides the great emotional lyrics in this song, the intro with the entrance of the several instruments is really cool. It's also the only song to ever crack the top 40 that I can think of that features an autoharp. Third Eye Blind has great songs of all kinds, but their ballads seem to always mean alot to me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuAGVr-O-3E

Stone Temple Pilots- "Big Empty". Ok, I was torn between this song and "Creep", both of which were recorded by the band during their mid 90's hay day. This song, most people don't realize was also featured on the soundtrack of the infamous movie "The Crow".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65jkFKR-udY

Guns and Roses- "November Rain". I love this song on so many levels, and you seriously have to love this video. Axl Rose seriously outdid himself on this epic masterpiece that has been compared to similar songs like "Bohemian Rhapsody", "Stairway to Heaven", and "Hey Jude". This video made during the MTV "mini-movie" era and had a budget of over $1.5 million and is still to date, one of the most expensive music videos ever filmed. A song this powerful would have to have a powerful video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VX6gMudhCU

Metallica- "Hero of the Day". Unlike most rock and roll fans, I have never really been a big Metallica fan. However, this song is completely different than anything they ever recorded. While I like a few of their ballads like "Fade to Black", this song, while surprisingly mainstream and more musically vanilla (one of Metallica's few songs in a major key), the video and the song seemed to show the intimate side of James Hetfield, and the song was very inspirational to the country shortly after 9-11.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEETC3msD9U

Van Halen- "Not Enough". Ok, I have the 1995 Van Halen album "Balance", and I have to say that, as with every album after "1984" that got progressively worse, this one is just as bad. However, as horrible as Sammy Hagar is, I really like this song, and people forget that while he is one of the best guitar players alive, Eddie Van Halen is also a very good piano player. I think deep down, Van Halen is a pop band that likes to play rock and roll. I still can't get over the Van Halen brothers having short hair in this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvlrFV6CTGk

Creed- "My Own Prison". Off of Creed's not as well known debut album (which came out in 1997), this was probably Creed's most spiritual and most intimately lyrical song they had (which led many people to believe they were a "Christian" band, with the references to Jesus in the song). For my money, it's tough to beat Scott Stapp singing on a ballad.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YoUuwDZuW0

Aerosmith- "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing". EVERYONE remembers this song, but you can't tell me you don't love it. Aerosmith has some of the best rock ballads ever, but this one is by far their magnum opus. Besides being from the movie "Armageddon" (the first movie Jay Money ever cried at- I was there!), this song in a way "re-emerged" Aerosmith after being dormant for 5 years after the mega success of "Get A Grip". Another piece of trivia- this was Aerosmith's first and only #1 hit.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vo_0UXRY_rY

Def Leppard- "Two Steps Behind". Def Leppard came out of nowhere after being in hibernation after the mid 80's to score this surprise hit in 1993. Great song and decent video, but explain me some things. Has ANYONE ever seen Joe Elliot play a guitar before this video? I thought the only thing he played was the "microphone". This video is confusing and it really seems like a knockoff cross of a U2/Duran Duran video. Is it just me?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qv829hUuYAM

Goo Goo Dolls- "Iris". Another one of those bands that was a "rock" band but is simply remembered for their ballads, Goo Goo Dolls had this blockbuster song on the blockbuster movie "City of Angels" (a movie, surprisingly, I have never seen), and was also featured on their 1998 album "Dizzy Up the Girl". Interesting observation- like most songs on that soundtrack, this song has a several second rest that kinda takes you by surprise. Seriously, check out all the other songs and tell me if this is a pre requisite or something.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_hAIcGzmew

Just don't seem like the type right?

The original Third Eye Blind lineup- 1998

They look British..........right?

Late Night Music Part 18................"Guilty Pleasures"

We all have them, some more than others- some more embarassing than others. Some are even shameful to the point where if anyone found out, we would certainly be completely ruined. Those are, of course musical guilty pleasures.

As most of you can usually tell through my ridiculously eclectic video selection along with my off the wall topics, I've never limited myself. Some of you know from many musical conversations with me that my spectrum is pretty wide. However, even to a music guru like myself, some stuff is seriously "taboo" for musical integrity standards. Sometimes, you can't help it, you just go with the flow, you fall in love with a song, and before you know it, you've found yourself a guilty pleasure. Also receiving votes in this category were LFO "Girl on TV", Vanilla Ice "Ice Ice Baby", Clay Aiken "Invisible", Hannah Montana "Best of Both Worlds", anything by Hillary Duff, Veggie Tales, and of course.......The Wiggles.

Fergie- "Big Girls Don't Cry". I remember Fergie being one of my first crushes during her days on "Kids Incorporated" (if you don't know what I'm talking about, PLEASE look it up), as she was was the longest tenured cast member on the show before moving on to Wild Orchid. However, after seeing this video which could also be an audition for a "Maxim" photo shoot, I seriously have to scratch my head and wonder why I love this woman and this song so much. Whenever this song comes on I have to look around and make sure know one sees me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnbBVWDtYm0

Leona Lewis- "Better in Time". Leona Lewis is one of the most beautiful women in music. She SCREAMS elegance whenever she is on the stage or on screen. However, I really feel funny about liking this song so much.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrNoDUblAtE

Rihanna- "Take A Bow". Another KNOCKOUT (ok haha no pun intended) seriously, does anyone look better in a tanktop? Rihanna is absolutely gorgeous. However, thanks to our good friend Mequel Logan running this song in the ground 2 years ago, this song has become stuck in my head and has become a closet favorite. I always feel funny about liking the "girl power" songs like this one that talk so bad about a guy. Does that make me a woman? Hmmmmm........

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8XC7idFyvE

Hanson- "Strong Enough to Break". These guys have grown up since their bubble gum days of "Mmm Bop" and actually have shown some pretty good talent. I really like this song from a musical and lyrical perspective, but am I the only male who actually knows they are a good band? I am really starting to scare myself.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCw1Fhj0wvw

Natasha Bedingfield- "Unwritten". I don't feel as bad on this one because my little brother said he really likes this song. However, he was 9 years old at the time. Ok, I should stop talking now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lFXy5bIiSA

Spice Girls- "Wannabe". Two words- POSH SPICE.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJLIiF15wjQ

New Kids on the Block- "Valentine Girl". Say whatever you want, but I was really glad to see these guys make a comeback last summer. I have always said they were the best of the boy bands and were about 5 years too early for really big time success, eventhough at one point, they were the biggest act in the world. I like this song because mainly, it gives me back my heterosexual persona, but I like seeing the forgotten one, Danny, get a go at a solo.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXddAB5WtVA

Weird Al Yankovic- "Headline News". Great parody of the Crash Test Dummies here. I have always been a huge Weird Al fan. Say whatever you want about him "stealing songs", but the guys is an absolute genius. Also, he always has the blessing of the artist before he does the parody, and many artists consider it an honor. I also really like the fact that Weird Al can really make a song in just about any genre. However, this seemed to stop being cool to most people I know after junior high. Oops.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3S1aHjlYKlk

Kelly Clarkson- "A Moment Like This". I absolutely LOATHE "American Idol", I think the show sucks, the concept sucks, the judges suck, and the host REALLY sucks. However, I have a hard time not loving this song. Despite Kelly Clarkson's laughable acting career and her other unusually bad songs, her original ballad always stands out to me. However, this song is still used in alot of comedy punch lines.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSSoMw3R-E8

Backstreet Boys- "I Want It That Way". I don't care what any of you say, these guys rock.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgH-jWCny9U

I'll take a bow for you any time

the original American "Idol"

these guys drip with awesome!

if I could only be this cool!

Late Night Music Part 17.............."Odd Couples"

We all know the duets of two completely different artists that are used for no other reason than to get on the radio, sell records, and hopefully put an unfamiliar face with a relatively new audience. Sometimes, the difference in artists is sometimes so strange it makes you do a double "holy crap". We see this alot in music through samples, holiday albums, movies, and other "MTV" songs. While some of these songs are good, they are equally filled with the shock factor of "are they REALLY singing a song together?????". I'm still waiting for the duet coming out with Lil' Wayne and Taylor Swift- should be a masterpiece. I hear it's called "The Teardrops on my Lollipop".

Also receiving votes in this category were Angie Stone and Josh Groban "The Prayer", the part of "We Are The World" with Willie Nelson and Dionne Warwick, P Diddy and Jimmy Page "Come With Me", U2 and Mary J. Blige "One", and N*Sync and Gloria Estefan "The Music of My Heart".

Celine Dion and R. Kelly- "I'm Your Angel". Fantastic song featured on Celine Dion's Christmas album and on R. Kelly's double album "R". Seriously though, after watching this video you have to wonder if either one these ever met. They aren't together in the video, and I don't ever remember them performing this song. Was this song recorded separately? Why does R. Kelly have his baby in this video? Maybe the fact that pedophiles aren't cool with the French Canadian crowd explains their inferred distance from each other.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nV_p6cvr2A

Josh Groban and Beyonce- "Believe". This song featured on the "Polar Express" soundtrack, and featured here at the 2005 Oscars is absolutely spectacular. Alot of people hate on Beyonce, but not only is she RAVISHING in this video, but her voice is beautiful. I think people underestimate her true musical talent. Now, please note I did NOT say she was a good actress. Josh Groban always seems to bring out the best in his duet partners, that guy is incredible.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnK5QSwhWMk

Alicia Keys and Adam Levine- "Wild Horses". Alicia Keys and the lead singer of Maroon 5 put on this live version at Alicia Keys "Unplugged" performance for the album of the same name. I like they each brought their own style to the song but still found a way to bring the song together. Adam Levine has a very distinctive sound and it sounds good with the soul of Alicia.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfLmCPfx_gY

Frank Sinatra and Bono- "I've Got You Under My Skin". The first song on the list I don't like. I think both of these guys are legends, especially Sinatra. But when Frank released his "Duets" album in 1993, it was filled with very good duet partners throughout. However, what in the WORLD are you thinking about on this one? Bono didn't even try to make the song sound cohesive. It's like I'm listening to 2 totally different songs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sL_EKEVtmSU

Bing Crosby and David Bowie- "The Little Drummer Boy". A Christmas one. This was Bing Crosby's last recording and last appearance before his death. David Bowie was trying to reach a broader audience with this bit, and honestly, some of the older bunch disagree, but I love this duet. Bing still had it until the end, and despite being weird, David Bowie has a beautiful voice. Irony here is that Bing admittedly had never heard a David Bowie song until he showed up to shoot the video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKTHvW2JcAA

Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson- "Say Say Say". Two of my all time favorite artists, but I hate how this relationship turned out. These guys just look funny together (but who doesn't look funny next to Michael Jackson?), and despite the extremely homosexual moment with the shaving cream, this video isn't bad, despite Paul McCartney not being able to play dead. Even the greatest ever can't be perfect. This was also one of Michael's last appearances as a black man.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLEhh_XpJ-0

Elton John and........
he had alot of strange duet partners- here are some.

Mary J. Blige- "I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues". This live rendition was featured on EJ's "One Night Only" album in 2000 after EJ had played the piano on MJB's "Deep Inside" on her 1999 album "Mary". Mary said later this performance was the most nervous she had ever been in her life. I think they picked a great song to do together because despite their differences in styles, they both are very emotionally powerful artists, and it's an emotionally powerful song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBbMJJNCOzo

Lee Ann Rimes- "Written In The Stars". From the "Aida" soundtrack, Elton attempted to help Lee Ann crossover to a non-country audience with this song. However, seriously, just look at this video- what in the WORLD are they trying to convey?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZKnxQcNg1w

RuPaul- "Don't Go Breakin' My Heart". I'll just let you watch.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtO_jSbNN6I

Eminem- "Stan". This memorable performance from the 2003 Grammys after Eminem had made his homophobic remarks showed that either Elton John didn't care or that Eminem was trying to reach out. Most of you know that while I respect Em's talent, I pretty much loathe him as a person. I like this song, Em isn't just rapping about how much he's been screwed in life. I think all of us know that story by now. While the original recording featured Dido (who even performed the song with Eminem on "SNL"), I think the pick of Elton John to sing and play the piano on this song was brilliant. In my opinion, this song brings out one of Elton John's best piano parts he's ever played. Good job on whoever wrote the FCC-friendly version of the song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYi8ZvbyGrI

P Diddy, Faith Evans, 112, and Sting- "I'll Be Missin' You". I will NEVER forget the first time I saw this at the VMAs. I was seriously thinking I was dreaming. First of all, what in the world is 112 even doing on this song? They sing maybe 2 words- kind of like 98 Degrees in "Thank God I Found You". Anyway, while I think Sting was just trying to be hip, he looked kinda silly up there with P. Diddy and Faith. However, I think it's ironic how Diddy pays homage to Tupac at the end of the song, when he was suspected of being involved in both of his shootings.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tupSo3WC-Jc

Sting and Mary J. Blige- "Whenever I Call Your Name". Sting here in a better fit with the always wonderful MJB. I remember seeing these two perform this song on Leno and they had obvious chemistry. Again, while we have two completely different styles, the emotion on this song is perfect for both artists. However, while I love this song let me say that I A- HATE Mary's outfit in this video, and B- am officially going on the record as calling Sting a strange individual.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKxgsGv6JgU

Tim McGraw and Nelly- "Over and Over Again". I am still scratching my head on this one. I understand Nelly and Tim McGraw are close friends and frequent teammates in celebrity 3 on 3 tournaments, but these guys never seemed to click to me. This video is not only confusing, it's easy to get lost figuring out what's going on in it. Nelly in my opinion made a very poor attempt at "crossing over" here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voHt52tsT1U

The Queen and the "Queen".

Ok guys, enough already.

You know it makes you scratch your head.