Late Night Music Part 109..........."80's Ballads"

We all remember the 80's dance songs, but what about the songs of the decade that weren't electro dance songs or power ballads by hair bands? We can't forget that the 80's is probably still the most diverse decade in the history of music.

In order to receive votes in this category, the song had to be released in the 1980's and NOT included on the previous list "80's Hair Band Ballads". The bands included on that list were also disqualified. Also receiving votes in this category were "She's Like The Wind" by Patrick Swayze, "Head Over Heels" by Tears for Fears, "The End Of The Innocence" by Don Henley, and "Sailing" by Christopher Cross.

"The Flame"- Cheap Trick. After much success in the early 80's, Cheap Trick needed life breathed desperately into them in 1988 after several years off the radar. That lifeline came in 1988 when this worldwide #1 hit came along for their "Lap of Luxury" album. Despite it being widely popular and a fan favorite, the band initially refused to play it live just to their practice of "only playing songs written by them". The practice was quickly dropped, and the song remains in the repertoire of the band today. Bonus points to the makers of this video for making an entire music video about a song called "The Flame" without a single FLAME in the music video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muhFxXce6nA

"You Got It All"- The Jets. Ok ok I know I have this one here alot. In fact, I remember this one being on my 2nd entry ever "Musical Families". You have to remember that while the Jets were turning their mother's uterus into a clown car, they were one of the more popular acts in the country in the mid-late 80's, which is stars seriously aligning, because I would be willing to bet that will never happen again with a full family band like this ever again. It's just not something people will buy any more. Plus what are the odds of having that many kids in the same family who are that talented? I have a better chance of playing in the NBA. Again, will someone please explain to me what in the world the beginning of this video has to do with anything? This song was actually the last single released from the Jets 1985 debut album, peaking at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in late 1986.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xe5rg05ZQNs

"Lady In Red"- Chris de Burgh. Chris de Burgh is a perfect example of a "one side of the Atlantic one hit wonder", as this was his only hit in the United States despite a very extensive and successful in Europe. This song off of his 1986 album "Into The Light" brought into the light why he was so popular in Europe...........and not here. I think it's safe to say when you see a guy dressed like this that they'll more than likely suck.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gj3GeMnlkNE

"Hello"- Lionel Richie. What an amazing song! What an amazing-ly awful video! Lionel Richie is one of my favorite singer/songwriters ever, but the man is seriously one of the cheesiest actors ever. In the early-mid 80's, Lionel Richie had overtaken Stevie Wonder as the most popular solo male R&B singer if you didn't count Michael Jackson. His 1984 album "Can't Slow Down" was without a doubt the biggest of his career, and this #1 hit song is a perfect example of how great he really can be. This video was a perfect example of bad he really can be. It's beyond obvious that Laura Carrington, who plays the blind student in the video, is not blind at all. I also learn where Bill Cosby gathered his inspiration for his character's wardrobe on "The Cosby Show" when I see Lionel Richie's sweaters.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_ILDFp5DGA

"Right Here Waiting"- Richard Marx. I've always gotten cracked up at the title of Richard Marx's 1989 album which this song was included on, "Repeat Offender". So he's telling us his debut album was a beast and he was back to be the bad boy he is? Well, "Repeat Offender" did hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 200 albums chart in 1989, but the whole persona he portrays in his pictures never stuck with me anyway. Despite that, this wound up being one of the biggest hits of the 80's and has had some great cover versions (I smell a bonus video).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_E2EHVxNAE

"Voices Carry"- 'Til Tuesday. Wow, I seriously thought until just now that this 1985 one hit wonder band was British, but can you blame me? Despite being from Boston, Aimee Mann is one of the most British sounding lead singers ever. Maybe that's why 'Til Tuesday never got back in the top 25 after this debut single peaked at #8. If you mute this video, it's fun to imagine that you're watching Pat Benatar in a European soap opera.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uejh-bHa4To

"Careless Whisper"- Wham!. Or George Michael. This single was technically George Michael's first solo single, but it was also included on Wham!'s 1984 album "Make It Big", so you make the call on it. I guess the fact that Andrew Ridgeley is nowhere to be found in the video makes it a George Michael video, but was he ever in Wham! to begin with? Just a sidenote- George Michael has really big eyebrows.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izGwDsrQ1eQ

"Man In The Mirror"- Michael Jackson. Gonna go ahead and call this one my favorite MJ song. Despite it being out of place on "Bad" (I never got that one), it hit #1 early in 1988 and became the signature song of the album, and became one of the best songs he performed live. This video is VERY different for the fact that it was the only video made by MJ that he doesn't appear in (save for a few seconds towards the end). This type of video is more common now, but it was definitely a first of its kind then, but then again everything he did was like that right?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PivWY9wn5ps

"Piano In The Dark"- Brenda Russell. My scalp hurts just from me scratching my head wondering why 2 videos were made for this song. Don't get me wrong, this song is a huge guilty pleasure of mine, but does it really deserve multiple video status? Anyway, Brenda Russell was a relatively unknown Canadian jazz singer prior to the success of this lead single off of her 1988 album "Get Here" peaked at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100. I also found another video for this song, which I have no information on, but I can't wrap my mind around why this would even happen.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNeyF1khFA8

"No One Is To Blame"- Howard Jones. I love when artists go completely out of their genre to make a hit single. Most people know the Howard Jones dance hit "What Is Love?" from "Night at the Roxbury" fame, but few people realize it's the same person who sang this song. This single from his 1985 album "Dream Into Action" showed the diversity of Howard Jones as an artist and definitely as a lyricist. However, if you told me I was watching a Thomas Dolby video, I'd believe you, because they look freaking exactly alike.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2V3SNrkpp0

"Purple Rain"- Prince. Quite possibly the best song of the 80's. Also, a huge hats off to Prince for not taking off this video off of youtube (which he has done in the past due to claiming copyright violations). Anyhow, I saw this movie a few months ago on TV, and despite that fantastic soundtrack which included this amazing performance, its quite possibly the worst movie I've ever seen. Not even this song could save it- maybe it would help if Prince wasn't wearing a blouse. Bonus points for the guy wearing the Tigers hat in Minneapolis.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5l75skRMlXk

"Lost In Your Eyes"- Debbie Gibson. The original teen idol! I remember seeing this video when it first came out (I was 7) and thinking it was SO cool! I guess when the video is played on the Disney Channel that's what happens. You have to give Debbie Gibson credit because after her debut album "Out Of The Blue" became a worldwide hit, she also became the youngest person to ever write, record, and produce a Billboard Hot 100 single with 1988's "Foolish Beat". When 1989 rolled around, her sophomore effort "Electric Youth" was met with high expectations. This lead single became Debbie Gibson's second #1 single where it remained for 3 weeks in late 1988. Debbie Gibson never cracked the top 10 again, but continued to have moderate success. She is now one of the hottest women in Hollywood as a part time actor and gets my vote as the hottest former child star ever. Also, is it just me, but does Debbie Gibson remind anyone else of "Jem"?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ms3mJFkSeg

"Africa"- Toto. Toto has always been one of those bands I just didn't get. This song just proves my point. This single from their 1982 album "Toto IV" put them in the top spot of the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1983, but left everyone even more confused. Bonus points for the globe in the video. I still have the exact same one that was given to me when I was 5 years old.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azVqekQBK8g

"I'll Be Loving You Forever"- New Kids On The Block. Another guilty pleasure, but I'm still amazed at how hair that bad could be so famous. This single from their 1988 album "Hangin' Tough" was nothing short of volcanic in popularity, as it seemed everything the New Kids touched turned to gold. This song reached #1 in 1989 and propelled them into their record breaking Hangin' Tough World Tour (which actually made a stop in Jackson). Part of me would really like to see Maurice Starr put another boy band together. I think he was a little before his time, and WAY before Lou Pearlman put the Backstreet Boys, N'Sync, and O-Town together.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZT_7UjCVELg

"Eternal Flame"- The Bangles. SUSANNA HOFFS!!!!!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfsCAJnx2JI

BONUS VIDEOS- "Right Here Waiting For You"- Monica and 112. Really good cover version- yes I know it's been on here before.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vflsUfONNA8

"Syndicate"- The Fray. No reason- just stuck in my head.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSx5zNhmi3c

They look British right?

Susanna Hoffs!

Debbie Gibson today

Late Night Music Part 108......"Pigott's Favorite Bands.....LIVE! Part 2

After my last "LIVE!" entry got great feedback, I decided to go ahead and put up my second one. Like the last one, this list is just a collection of some of my favorite bands doing memorable live performances of some of my favorite songs. As I said before, there is just something therapeutic about live performances, and the true talent of these acts are caught in these. Songs qualified for this list by being from a live performance, live album, live concert, live studio recording, or from a live television performance. As usual, I will not be commenting on these videos as all of these songs literally speak for themselves. Also, I will be making yet another one of these entries, so please remember that just because someone is left off that that doesn't mean they'll never be on here.

"Between The Lines"- Sara Bareilles (Fillmore Theater- San Francisco, California)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpgWI_I607Y

"Beast of Burden"- The Rolling Stones (Wiltern Theatre- Los Angeles, California)

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

"Heart of the Matter/Umbrella"- India Arie (North Sea Jazz Festival- Rotterdam, Germany)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJb_Sq7_jjo

"You and Me"- Dave Matthews Band (2010 Grammy Awards- Los Angeles, California)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6t78OW-yhM

"High Flying Bird"- Elton John (2007 60th Birthday Concert)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38QwisocIi0

"King of Sorrow"- Sade ("Lovers Live" Live Concert DVD)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bt5vNo_oCdM

"Only One"- Yellowcard ("Pepsi Smash")

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=feUiJtAXp7A

"Unwinding Cable Car"- Anberlin ("Buzznet")

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

"Be My Escape"- Relient K ("The Tonight Show With Jay Leno")

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xojwy8lzDJc

"Hold My Hand"- Hootie and The Blowfish ("MTV Unplugged"- University of South Carolina)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HlsKv6s0FM

"Just Friends (Sunny)"- Musiq Soulchild (Hip Hop Soul DVD)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zO76dsiRKs0

"You Are"- Sherwood (Westbeach Recorders- Hollywood, California)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXlRO1G1_MA

"Rise"- Robbie Seay Band (The Woodlands United Methodist Church- The Woodlands, Texas)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ml84-u-nATY

"Don't Stay"- Laura Izibor ("Passport Approved")

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0lhop2B3uI

"If I Ain't Got You"- Alicia Keys (2004 Grammy Awards- Los Angeles, California)

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

"Fix You"- Coldplay ("Austin City Limits")

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2qJl7TP9IM

"Hey, Soul Sister"- Train ("The Today Show")

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQu5DJ480EE

"Ever Dream"- Nightwish ("End of An Era" Live DVD Hartwaal Arena- Helsinki, Finland)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W39WaGTPnvg

"Love's Looking For You"- Miranda Lambert ("Revolution: Live By Candlelight" Live DVD)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjOvY4f-USo

Late Night Music Back To School/PGA Championship Edition Part 107........."FORE!"

I was just watching Keegan Bradley win the PGA Championship today and this popped into my head.

In order to receive votes in this category, the SONG TITLE had to feature the word "FOR" . Also receiving votes in this category were "Lake Tahoe (For My Father)" by Sherwood, "Living For The Love Of You" by The Isley Brothers, "Fight For This Love" by Cheryl Cole, and "For The Cool In You" by Babyface.

"Just For Today (Embrace The Mystery)" by India Arie. I actually heard this song for the first time recently on Pandora. This song was actually only made available on "Testimony: Vol. 1, Life and Relationships" Target exclusive edition. So in other words, it was almost invisible. I really don't know why this song wasn't included, because this one of India's more inspirational songs. I'm gonna take away bonus points for whatever idiot posted this video on youtube with the wrong album cover. I really hate when people do that.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFh7J5onpMM

"For You"- Kenny Lattimore. This song from Kenny Lattimore's self-titled major label debut album was released in 1997 and peaked at #6 on the R&B charts. I've always thought that Kenny Lattimore had an unbelievably smooth voice. The guy just oozes soul from every pore in his body, but can he please stop trying to look like Chamar Moore? I got to give him props for his cool 5 o'clock shadow and his beautiful wife (and duet partner...I smell a bonus video) Chante Moore. I really wish I could find the official video for this song because it was actually quite good.

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

"This One's For the Children"- New Kids On The Block. In 1989, the New Kids on the Block were without a doubt, the biggest act on the planet. They had just finished the "Hangin' Tough" world tour and were gearing up for the release of their Christmas album, which would be the catapult for their follow up mega album "Step By Step" just a few months later. So, in the meantime, NKOTB released this single that peaked at #7 and made one of the cheesiest videos ever along with it. Now, I always said that NKOTB was a talented group, but there is no way you can convince me that Jordan Knight is actually playing the piano in this video. It kinda reminded me of Davey Jones in the Monkees' video "Daydream Believer" (I smell another bonus video). I'm also gonna step away for a second and throw up because I saw Jordan Knight and Donnie Wahlberg's hair in this video. I realize it was 1989, but I never once remember wanting to have my hair like that. Just sayin.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtSbedMeF6s

"For You I Will (Confidence)"- Teddy Geiger. Yes! I was always wondering when I could finally put Teddy Geiger back on here. This song was the theme song to the very good (and very over advertised) 2005 comedy-drama "Love Monkey" that rode Super Bowl ads by CBS to be cancelled after just 3 episodes. I'm still mad about that one. Tom Cavanagh definitely deserves better. This song from his debut album "Underage Thinking" and debut EP "Step Ladder" peaked at #29 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2005, and unfortunately has been his only splash on the charts despite enormous talent. I think people thought he was too much like John Mayer, because I see tons of similarities. Anyway, back to "Love Monkey". I think if CBS would have given the show a chance, it could have been a great springboard for several young artists like Geiger, and would have worked similar to the way "Glee" works now. Well, at least VH1 aired the remaining episodes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxQIvy0Zjx4

"For You I Will"- Monica. I just realized that these songs have the same title- man I'm slow tonight. Anyway, this Diane Warren written song was featured in the soundtrack for the 1996 film "Space Jam" and on Monica's 1997 album "The Boy Is Mine" and peaked at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 as that album's lead single. I'm gonna go out on a limb and say this is Monica's best song. I've always been a fan just because it was cool seeing someone my age do well in the industry, and I think her poise is up there with Whitney Houston or Mary J Blige, which makes her one of the most naturally gifted singers in R & B ever. I love this video, and strangely enough, it wasn't the only R & B videos to feature Michael Jordan in the 90's.....I smell a bonus video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8itdZoB7yQ

"All For You"- Sister Hazel. Don't get me started on how unappreciated Sister Hazel has always been. Without a doubt one of my favorite bands, and I get upset when I've heard store owners tell me that they won't even carry their albums because "no one buys it". Unfortunately for them, they came along around the same time as bands like Hootie and the Blowfish and Blues Traveler, so I think many people saw them as a novelty, but I'll always disagree. This song here was their debut single that peaked at #11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1997 from their debut album "...Somewhere More Familiar". I don't know about you, but this video makes me really wanna see these guys live.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f46ulX6uwGc

"For Me, It's You"- Train. I remember seeing Train live for the first time in 2004 and then realizing how good they really are. Pat Monahan is an unbelievable front man, and in this performance from "The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson", he shows that he can rock and be soulful in the same song. This title track from their 2006 album wasn't released as a single, and despite the album debuting at #10 on the Billboard Hot 200 albums, it is their least selling album ever. I think it was because of the great success of their previous album "My Private Nation". Fortunately, their latest album "Save Me, San Francisco" has put them back in the mainstream again.

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

"I Care 4 U"- Aaliyah. I still get chills every time I hear this song. This turned out to be Aaliyah's final single from her self titled 2001 album, it actually peaked at #16 on the Billboard Hot 100 despite not being released internationally and not having a big budget video to accompany it. Aaliyah's story is unfortunately a depressing one, because all you can ever think of is how great she was about to become. This video was pieced together to accompany the single after her death.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsmvUXCI89U

"A Song For You"- Donny Hathaway. One of the best live performances ever! Donny Hathaway featured this song on his 1971 self-titled album, and also on his posthumous live album "These Songs For You Live!", which is featured here. Surprisingly enough, despite the song being one of his fan favorites and signature songs, he never released the song as a single. I smell another bonus video on this one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeHiio1sTTI

"For You Blue"- The Beatles. Score one for George Harrison! This Harrison-composed Beatles tune was featured on the final cut of "Let It Be", and as seen here, also in the film. This is also the only Beatle song to ever feature a steel guitar, played by John Lennon. While all of you know what a huge Beatle maniac I am, I can't help but think but George Harrison should have been a 70's porn star with the facial hair and haircut he's sporting in this video. Bonus points for John Lennon being in his pajamas, but I'm taking them away just because Yoko Ono is in the video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylUm8FlcxQI

"For The First Time"- Kenny Loggins. I freaking love this song! This song was Kenny Loggins one and only appearance on the Adult Contemporary Chart, but he hit #1 while he was there. Surprisingly though, the song did not appear in the Billboard Hot 100, only the second AC #1 song ever to fall to that fate. This song was included in the 1996 romantic comedy "One Fine Day" starring George Clooney and Michelle Pfeiffer, and was nominated for the "Best Original Song" Academy Award. Kenny Loggins has always been a pretty cool guy, but I'm begging him to take out that stupid earring. He looks about as cool as I would with an earring in.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_I-z_AJ_4Q

"Send For Me"- Atlantic Starr. I did us all a favor and just let us listen to Atlantic Starr instead of having to see them. This song from their 1981 album "Radiant" hit #16 on the R & B charts, and thankfully never had a video for it. Atlantic Starr is so cheesy they make the Jets look like Dr. Dre. However, this is a nice song and was pretty appropriate for the era.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-Y25F5aBOY

"What Are You Waiting For?"- Sherwood. I FREAKING LOVE SHERWOOD!!!!!!! This indie band from San Luis Obispo, California has been one of my favorite bands since I came across their music first in 2006 while I was at LSU. After the success of their 2006 album "Sing, But Keep Going". Sherwood became the first band to ever sign with Myspace Records that same year. This song from "QU", their 2009 third album, is one of my Sherwood songs. "QU" was Sherwood's first real taste of mainstream success, as it hit #91 on the Billboard Hot 200 albums in 2009.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDZMvPYiR3M

"Funeral For a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding"- Elton John. The opening track to one of the best albums ever made, 1973's "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road". I can't even describe this one. The first part of the song was actually written by Elton John as "music he'd like to hear at his funeral". He actually combined the songs by accident, but thought they fit well together, so he combined them into one track. Obviously too long to ever be released as a single, it still was played on radio stations, and still gets moderate play on classic rock stations today.

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

BONUS VIDEOS- "Baby Come Close"- Kenny Lattimore and Chante Moore. See what I mean?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-HE0B-otbA

"Give Me You"- Mary J. Blige. The other video to feature Michael Jordan.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PF5K6Rissc

"A Song For You"- Ray Charles. Probably the only person who can touch Donny Hathaway on this one. And to think Ray was much older when he did this one.

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

"Daydream Believer"- The Monkees. See what I mean?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nU615FaODCg

"Syndicate"- The Fray. Just because it's stuck in my head.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSx5zNhmi3c

Sherwood

Monica

One of the most underrated bands ever

Late Night Music Viking Classic Edition Part 106....."Go Back, Go Back To The Woods"

My coach always said that we always have to "go forward" and can't ever go back because "time don't wait on no one". Well tonight, I'm gonna break the laws of physics and celebrate the music that lets us go BACK, yet still go forward. Did that even make sense? Wow, I'm really tired.

In order to be considered for this list, the song title had to include the word "BACK". Also receiving votes in this category were "Back To Life" by Soul II Soul, "Going Back" by Phil Collins, "Love Will Lead You Back" by Taylor Dane, "I Can't Love You Back" by Easton Corbin and "Finding My Way Back" by Jaheim . NOT RECEIVING VOTES was "It's All Coming Back To Me Now" by Celine Dion- do I have to explain why?

"Back To You"- John Mayer. For some reason, I decided to start with this song just because I've had it stuck in my head all day. This song was originally included on John Mayer's 2001 debut album "Room For Squares", and like most John Mayer songs that was really awesome, it was never released as a single. Despite that, the song has always been a crowd favorite, as evidenced here in this performance from his "Any Given Thursday" live album from 2003. I freaking LOOOOOOVE this song, but I really wish I could watch John Mayer perform when he doesn't look like he's having an epileptic seizure.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fl0AAFH14t8

"Get Back"- The Beatles. Most people don't know that when the Beatles recorded this song and the songs to go along with it in early 1969, that the album was actually going to be titled "Get Back". It wasn't until the remastering and added orchestration of the album that it was eventually called "Let It Be", which would be the last Beatles studio album (even though it wasn't the last one they recorded). The idea of the album was for the Beatles to get back to ensemble band playing as a group to rekindle their old sound as well as build band unity. This idea, however, backfired and as seen in the documentary film of the same name, this only led to more problems as the band at times would refuse to even play together (which was how the majority of the White Album was recorded). However, in the closing scene of the film, the Beatles played their first "concert" in nearly 3 years with this famous performance atop the roof of Apple Studios in downtown London. This famous take was actually included on the "Anthology 3" album. Bonus points for Billy Preston on the keyboard. Oh yeah, this song went to #1....but you already knew that.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6G7MkBMVxE

"Right Back To Where We Started From"- Maxine Nightingale. I have to admit that I probably never would have even heard of this song if it wasn't for "The Art Bell Show" (which is now "Coast to Coast AM") during my sleepless weekend nights in high school/college, as it was a favorite of Art Bell, the eccentric and creative host of the very strange show. This song was also included in the hilarious "Starsky and Hutch" with Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson in the famous disco scene. This song was a worldwide disco hit in on her album of the same name for our British friend who really needs to eat something (great job choosing a shirt that didn't make her look so anorexic. This song peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1976

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=op0upKxdvLs

"Get Back"- Ludacris. Ludacris hit it hard in late 2004 with this lead single from his follow up album to "Chicken-n-Beer", "Red Light District". This song hit #13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and help the album reach the top of the charts a few weeks later. Bonus points for Luda's fake muscles and choking the annoying guy- I really wanted to do the same thing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yt849wJyVk

"Back Where I Come From"- Kenny Chesney. Bonus points for Kenny giving a shout out to Mississippi's Mac McAnally on this song! This famous concert in Neyland Stadium really shows what a great performer Kenny Chesney is. This song was included on Chesney's second studio album "Me and You", but was never released as a single for Chesney, but was a minor hit for McAnally in 1990. However, you can see from this performance that it's still quite possibly Chesney's most popular song. Bonus points for bringing Peyton Manning on stage at his college stadium, but I'm taking them away because Peyton can't take his hands off his hips. I think he's a funny guy, but our boy really needs some help when it comes to stage presence. But since this song is so cool, I'm gonna give it 5 more bonus points- one for every foot Chesney is shorter than Peyton Manning.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDQOcRNFod0

"Back To You"- Naya Marie. I'm so glad I get to put Naya Marie back on here! Bonus points immediately for the 5 dancers and for the cool costume changes. I think it's so cool how the dancing stays perfect when the clothes change. I also like how Naya didn't keep the focus on her and featured each dancer in their own short segment- super cool. I also like how Naya called it "80's pop done my way" because I have to admit I thought I was listening to a song that is Debbie Gibson meets Tiffany, but I thought about that's ALMOST an insult. All of you can say whatever you want, but I seriously think Naya Marie is a better singer than most female pop singers that are out there today. Check out her channel on youtube, and tell me if you can actually say something different. To check out more Naya Marie check out her websites www.nayamarie.blogspot.com or www.myspace.com/nayamariemusic.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JH1n6W3G9PI

"Won't Back Down"- Tom Petty. I'm almost pissed off at whoever uploaded this song on YouTube by saying this is "Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers" when it is NOT. This song was on Tom Petty's "solo" album debut "Full Moon Fever" in 1989, but like I said last time, I almost wanna call this a Beatles song just because 2 Beatles play on the track. That alone puts it on this list.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvlTJrNJ5lA

"Come Back Song"- Darius Rucker. I still can't get over how smoothly he made this transition. This lead single from his latest album "Charleston, SC 1966" gives me a few shades of Hootie (do I smell a reunion?). This song was a #1 country hit and peaked at #37 on the Billboard Hot 100. I love how Darius Rucker is so in love with his hometown and it really shows in this video. Bonus points for that.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ap7HzFlOXq4

"Back For Good"- Take That. When these guys popped up in 1995 in the United States, we saw immediately why they were famous over there and not here. These guys despite having Robbie Williams are the most unrealistic looking boy band ever, and that's some strong words right there. However, if you see the cover to this album "Nobody Else" I kinda think N'Sync might have stolen a concept......just saying. Surprisingly, this song peaked at #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains Take That's only real big dent in American music as a group. I can't believe these guys actually wonder why they are so big in the UK, but not here, hmmmmmmmm.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2ICtCO8TCw

"I'm Back"- T.I. This promotional single for T.I. from his album "No Mercy" peaked out at #44 on the Billboard Hot 100. Does that really mean he was back? I think T.I. should have released this one BEFORE he went to prison. His status he has now as America's favorite inmate would have sold this song itself. I'd be willing to bet anything that if he released this around his prison release date it goes to #1- think about it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8z_5ZtPzWI

"To The Moon And Back"- Savage Garden. Good lord I hate Savage Garden.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCm6gRHINqA

"Back Down South"- Kings Of Leon. This song is the latest single from King of Leon's album "Come Around Sundown" and was released in May of this year. I think Kings of Leon will always be a rock band, but this song shows their Nashville roots with a surprisingly really cool country sound. I think it's so funny how Kings Of Leon just looks like they don't care when they play, but still sound cool. That's pretty freaking hard to pull off.

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

"Back Here"- BBMak. I should stop this blog immediately just because I now have two British boy bands on it. Help!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l95MMbls0GQ

"Come Back To Me"- Vanessa Hudgens. Despite my reputation probably dropping after including this song, I have to admit that this song sounds pretty good. Vanessa Hudgens did a pretty good job of riding her "High School Musical" fame with her debut album "V" on which this single was included. It wound up peaking at just #55 on the Billboard Hot 100, but was actually very well received by music critics. Bonus points for the sample of "Baby Come Back" by Player.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCJ5u2AJHyw

"Baby, Come Back"- Player. Speaking of the Devil! This song from Player's self titled 1977 album became their only #1 hit and really their only 15 minutes of fame. Unfortunately for Player, they were a good band, but I'm gonna have to say that Pablo Cruise sounds better than them. I also think lead singer Pete Beckett looks just a little bit too much like Luke Skywalker.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYpAa5MOzMU

"Back At One"- Brian McKnight. I had to include this live performance instead of the video version just because I am still in shock at how bad this video really is. First of all, even if you're as cool as Brian McKnight you can't pull off brown leather pants. Also, you can't tell me that everyone in the audience just wanted to sign the numbers along with him. Talk about STUPID! I can't believe someone would choreograph that! Wow! I never thought I'd ever say anything bad about a Brian McKnight song because let's face it, the guy has one of the best voices in recent memory, but his corny factor went through the roof on this video. I'll put him up there with Lionel Richie now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXPfovXw2tw

"Lean Back"- Terror Squad featuring Fat Joe and Remy. This song somehow hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2004. Oh how I wish I could find the clip of Bruce Willis doing this dance at the 2004 VMAs. Quite possibly set white people back 20000 years with dancing like that. I've watched this video several times just for inspiration. If Fat Joe can get women like that, I should be able to too, right?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajmI1P3r1w4

"If I Could Turn Back The Hands of Time"- R Kelly. Bonus points for the backwards video. It's almost like time travel and I freaking love it. I love how R Kelly released this song to be a single from "R" when it was nothing like the actual album. It's hilarious when artists do that. People who bought the album were probably like "dang I didn't know this album was only about having crazy sex". Duh, that's because it's an R Kelly album. Take away 3 songs on the album and you have a modern day Trey Songz album. I always get mad at R Kelly's characters in his videos- who would actually leave a woman that fine at home alone? I guess she was too old for our good friend Rob Kelly. Anyway, this song jumped up to #12 on the Billboad Hot 100, and I'm sure it made "R" jump into the pockets of several confused music listeners in 1998.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsOPVCK745I

"Come Back To Me"- Utada. Utada is yet another foreign artist who has begun releasing tracks in English in order to gain a fanbase in the United States. This single is from Utada's second English album "This Is The One". I also love how she is so soulful. I think it's unfair how some people think Asians can't be soulful, especially ones who aren't even American. I'm also pretty impressed with the dialect being nearly flawless. How often to singers who may not have English as a first language struggle with pronunctiation? Utada was actually born in New York, but you can't tell me that American born second generation Japanese always speak/sing English this well.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKPA8L5ZpqU

"Baby Got Back"- Sir Mix-A-Lot. You knew it was coming.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kY84MRnxVzo

BONUS VIDEOS- "Material Girl"- Naya Marie. ANOTHER awesome acapella video from Naya Marie.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJGT2TkZNG0

"Hold My Hand"- Hootie and The Blowfish. We can all wish right?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoW3bqnr7tw

Naya Marie

Luuuuuuuuke I am your father

Even a guy this cool can't pull off leather pants

Late Night Music All Star Game Edition Part 105........."Breathe In, Breathe Out"

No matter who you are, you breathe more than you do any other act. It really makes you feel stupid when you think about it, but it's definitely the truth. Think about it and try to prove it otherwise- it can't be done. Anyway, it's funny how much we equate breathing to different things in life that aren't anywhere near as common as something we are constantly doing. This is pretty common in music. Tonight's list shows some of the songs that talk about the things or people we can't "breathe" without.

In order to be included in this category, the song title had to include something about breathing. Things that involve acts of breathing or not breathing were counted. Also receiving votes in this category was "Harder to Breathe" by Maroon5, "Breathe" by Kylie Minogue, "Breathe" by Fabolous, "Breathe and Stop" by Q-Tip, and "Breathe Into Me" by Red. "Breathe Easy" by Blue was disqualified just because I used it so recently, and I can't take that much corniness again. Also, "Take My Breath Away" by Berlin was disqualified just because it's SO stupid to have a song like that in a movie like "Top Gun".

"Breathe"- Taylor Swift feat. Colbie Caillat. I have to admit that I've always been kinda embarassed that I loved this song so much, and I realize that I may lose some "man points" for loving this song so much. I also realized that I've featured this song/video before, but I love it just as much as I did the first time I heard it. I am still amazed beyond belief that this song only peaked at #87 on the Billboard Hot 100 despite the appearance of Colbie Caillat on the track. I'm gonna go ahead and name this my third favorite break up song ever after "Slow Dancing In a Burning Room" by John Mayer and "Hesitate" by Mason Douglas.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnXrfksTjZ8

"Oxygen"- Colbie Caillat. Speaking of Colbie Caillat. While most of America was waiting for the top 40 radio stations to bring them their music, I was discovering Colbie Caillat on Myspace and heard this song long before she became a household name. This lead track off of her debut album "Coco". I personally would have liked to have seen this song released as a single rather than "Midnight Bottle"- I'll never understand that one.

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

"Breathe Again"- Toni Braxton. Toni Braxton proves in this video that you age with unbelievable elegance. Toni was a young 24 when this video was shot and this song from her debut self-titled album was released, but has turned into a "super cougar" at a mature 43 now and remains one of the sexiest women in music. I always liked this video because of the retro look (even though that was pretty common for R&B videos of the early 90's, but Toni's hair in this video is pretty freaking hot. Too bad she's being chased in the video by a complete idiot. Not only can he "not find" her, he just looks like he should be riding the short bus. It was pretty clear Toni Braxton was destined for super stardom when this song peaked at #3 on the charts in late 1993, with the album peaking at #1 shortly after.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRFEz2MjZgg

"Breathe"- Faith Hill. Every time I see this woman I am proud to be a Mississippian, and looking at her now, I have to wonder what in the world Tim McGraw must be thinking right now. By the way, this might be the first time I've ever led off a "Late Night Music" with four females on an entry that wasn't entirely female oriented. It's those small victories in life. In 1999, Faith Hill released this single, her most popular to date from the album of the same name, which peaked at #2 on the charts. This video was originally censored by CMT, and was later only shown in late timeslots due to the controversial nature of the video, which was stupid because there were several other country videos (see anything by Tanya Tucker in the early 90's) that were just as seductive, albeit not as successful. I think it was just a huge change from anything Faith Hill had ever done. For some reason I can watch this video and think Faith Hill is actually talking to me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCmsZUN4r_s

"Drowning"- Hootie and The Blowfish. I'll never forget how big this album was. I have a hard time explaining to younger kids just how huge "Cracked Rear View" was in 1994. I played this CD to death while on vacation in the United Kingdom in March 1995. Also, at the time, (and it still may be) this was the best selling debut album from any artist in the history of music, eventually topping out at 16 million copies. This song was unfortunately "lost" in the hit songs from the album and was never released as a single (probably due to Darius Rucker dropping an "s bomb"- the only cuss word on the entire album).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eg9N1x_C8vo

"Drowning"- Backstreet Boys. Man, I tell you, in 2001, it didn't get much better than the Backstreet Boys. I remember when this song first came out as a single to accompany their newly released greatest hits album I was so excited (because at 19 years old, I was a Backstreet Boys fan- it really hurts when I say it like that). Anyway, like I said, I was super excited.......until I saw Howie's hair in this video and my entire man crush ended right then and there. I have never seen someone who is supposed to be cool look so ridiculous. I think BSB's stylist should have been fired immediately for that look because I can't imagine it getting any worse. You also have to think about how rare they actually let Howie sing anyway and you just wonder what was going through their heads when they let that happen. I still to this day, have no idea. This song was originally intended for their "Black and Blue" album the previous year, but was pushed back to go along with the compilation album. For some reason, this song never caught on, and only maxed out at #28 on the charts.

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

"Lose My Breath"- Destiny's Child. I saw Beyonce walk in this video and immediately lost my breath.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqeIiF0DlTg

"Barely Breathing"- Duncan Sheik. You know they say if you're only gonna show up for a second, make sure it counts. Duncan Sheik made a huge splash with the debut single from this debut self titled album with this song that peaked at #16 on the charts but stayed on the charts for a mind boggling 55 weeks, which is still a record to this day. I've always liked this song, but this video makes me laugh. To me, Duncan Sheik looks like the guy who's just so excited to be in a video he doesn't even know he's supposed to be serious. It's like he's the kid in college who's getting put on by his buddies to do something stupid. When this song was being played on the radio, many music writers pushed Duncan Sheik as the next big star of charts, but he was relatively unheard from again until his 2007 Tony Award winning "Spring Awakening" which he composed all the music to and also won him a 2008 Grammy Award.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-oh-tP6RvA

"Breath"- Breaking Benjamin. Man, the more I listen to this band, the more I love them. However, the more I look at them, the less serious I take them. This awesome single from their 2007 album "Phobia" was a huge hit on the rock chart, and brought the band some mainstream success peaking at #84 on the Billboard Hot 100. I hate when people say that grunge bands don't have great lyrics, because this song is a great example of Benjamin Burnley's songwriting skills. Now if we just do something about his look. However goofy he looks, I would love to see BB live some time. Still in my opinion, one of the more underrated bands.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQ3qJmgktS0

"How Do I Breathe?"- Mario. Ok, I have to admit I almost didn't include this video just because I've always though Mario was so lame. I feel like I'm right because this lead single from his 2007 album "Go" made almost no noise on the charts despite the huge video premiere surrounding this video. Now to this video. Everything in this video is SOOOOOOOO early 2000's. I honestly think the guy went home and watched every episode of "TRL", "106 and Park" and "Access Granted" and just copied the scenes and then just put it upside down (which I thought was actually kind of cool) and put it in a video. For that reason, I can't take Mario seriously. That being said, this is a decent song, but the guy really needs to find his own style. The first time I heard this song I thought it was Ne-Yo.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcie4MOU-wQ

"Breathe"- Michelle Branch. I CANNOT BELIEVE I have never had this song on here. I'm glad Michelle Branch is also finally making her debut. Despite this song from her 2003 album "Hotel Paper" didn't have the success of some of her previous songs, it's always been my favorite. Bonus points for the bird singing. I'm glad she just released some new material (her new single "Loud Music" is being pushed super hard on youtube right now), because Michelle Branch has ALWAYS had it going on. I have to confess though- I used to think she was Asian, and yes she is 1/4th Asian, but I thought she was 100%.

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

"Breathe Today"- Flyleaf. This debut single from Flyleaf should have told everyone how awesome they would be as a band. Interesting note. While this was their first music video, it was made in 2007, 3 years after "Breathe Today" was first released. I love Lacey Sturm as a lead singer, and I think she's almost as good as Hayley Williams, and that's a lot for me to say that. People may disagree, but I think Paramore and Flyleaf are STUNNINGLY similar. Flyleaf is also another great example of a Christian band that can keep up musically with mainstream bands. That's an unfair stigma forced on Christian bands all too often. I love videos like this one, because I like to think how mad someone would be if they were next door or below them while they were playing this music. Hopefully they are on the bottom floor.

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

"Breathe (2AM)"- Anna Nalick. I'll never forget this song being featured on "Grey's Anatomy" (the famous Dr. Bailey "stop looking at my va-jay-jay" episode). This exposure in such a famous scene led to the single being 3x platinum despite just peaking at #45 on the Billboard Hot 100 from her debut album "Wreck Of The Day". I love this video just because Anna Nalick just has a such an innocent look about her.........innocent but naughty. That's now 8 videos with a female group/singer/lead singer- that has got to be a record.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPz3YaIJkjQ

"Breathe"- Newsboys. The Newsboys are another Christian band out of Australia that really flies under the radar just due to being so genre-specific. In 1996, they were one of the top Christians band in the world, and this song was included on their super hit album "Take Me To Your Leader" and was also featured in their DVD "Down Under The Big Top".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-VNirUn8_Cc

BONUS VIDEOS- "Underneath"- Hanson. I love this song by these now grown up guys. The song talks about breathing the entire time, so I think I could almost include it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og8How4IYZ8

"Hands to Heaven"- Breathe. Take a good look, I am pretty sure we'll never see this one again.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KC5InWPjtL8

"Goodbye To You"- Michelle Branch- just another great Michelle Branch song.

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

Michelle Branch

Toni Braxton

See what I mean?