Dave Matthew's and The Obama Endorsement

Dave Matthew’s Band, a huge favorite among people of all ages, has announced that they are going to endorse Obama in the upcoming election. The band has posted an explanatory letter on their website, which was a strong message that supported Obama. In the letter, Dave Matthews calls out our government, and pinpoints “corporate greed”.  He says that policymaking has been affected by this greed, and it has made it impossible for the people of the United States to have any say so in government issues. Dave Matthews believes Obama can bring the country out of this said “political cronyism”.

This endorsement will boost the popularity of Obama greatly. Dave Matthew’s Band is not just a trendy group that will go out of style in the next few months; their fans are normally lifelong ones who follow the band almost religiously. They have been publicly announcing their candidate choice and encouraging concertgoers to vote for Obama. For example, they hosted a free show in Richmond, Virginia that endorsed Obama’s “last chance for change”. In all recent concerts, they had people who walk around getting people that aren’t already registered to vote to register. This means that there are many, MANY people who were and will be influenced by this endorsement in the upcoming election. 

Of course, the band has every right and privilege to endorse the candidate of their choice; however, it is not politically ethical for fans to vote for Obama just because of the endorsement. Dave Matthews gives a respectful, logical reason in order to vote for Obama; but many of their fans are voting for him only because the band asked them too. This is very characteristic of politics these days. Celebrities endorse candidates that they personally advocate, but don’t push their fans to consider the issues. Elections have become a circus where the ringleaders are the candidates and the electorate is the clowns.

Dave Matthews claims that the government is politically corrupt, but they are only worsening it by pushing their fans to vote for Obama when most do not even know what they are voting for. They aren’t doing the wrong thing, because they are getting more people to vote, but they aren’t necessarily doing the right thing either. It is very important that the citizens of the United States vote for the candidates that have their best interests in mind instead of voting for the candidate with the most celebrity endorsements.

 

Umphrey's McGee

Umphrey’s McGee, a band that was formed in 1997, has been receiving a lot of media coverage lately. The musical group is from Chicago, Illinois and the members include: Brendan Bayliss (guitar and vocals), Joell Cummings (keyboards and vocals), Andy Farag (percussions), Kris Myers (drums and vocals), and Ryan Stasik (bass). This band’s music has been called many things, but most categorize them as progressive rock or jam band. Umphrey’s McGee has been touring frequently and tickets can be bought online at ticketmaster.com.

The band began as a collaboration between two different bands. Tashi Station and Stomper Bob was meshed in order to form Umphrey’s McGee. The two bands performed together in Notre Dame and the rest, as they say, was history. Andy Farag, who was not a member of either of these bands, later joined the group. The group came up with the name of the band from a relative of Brendan Bayliss, guitarist, whose name was Humphries. They slightly altered this individual’s name and formed it into Umphrey,s McGee. However, Humphries and another member of the family with the same name may possibly be suing them. Even so, the name is catchy and is very characteristic of the band.

The band’s sound is greatly influenced by progressive rock and jam band music. Their live shows have been compared to that of Grateful Dead and Phish. In fact, Joell Cummings, the keyboardist and also a vocalist, is a huge fan of Phish and was greatly inspired by their music and performances. The band was even a favorite during the 2004 Next-Phish Sweepstakes. Their first album was called Greatest Hits Vol. III and they released it independently in 1998. After came Songs for Older Women and One Fat Sucka came next along with their first DVD. They began to receive quite a lot of attention after the release of next two albums and gained coverage from Rolling Stones and the Washington Post.

The member’s of Umphrey’s McGee have only one goal with their music: to have fun. They try to make their live shows crazy and interesting by daringly playing improvised music onstage. They were also featured on the third annual Jam Cruise, a cruise that features many artists over the course of the trip. This was a very good experience for the band because they got to work with and be around other big artists and producers.

Although the band is not popular on the radio yet, Umphrey’s McGee’s music is fun and upbeat and should be a must have on anyone's playlist. Recently they have begun touring so there are many shows that a fan can buy tickets too.

Songs to Download: Nemo, Intentions Clear

Where It All Starts

Great musicians often blow our minds with their killer voices and expert instrument playing. Although a few artists haven't had voice or instrument lessons, most got started learning from a teacher. These people can be credited for giving many infamous bands their skills and techniques. I thought that it was necessary to give these type of people, our teachers, credit where it's due. I chose to interview Mary Hilley, who has taught many young people in her community to play the piano. Watch the video and see how many of the artists of today wold not have gotten anywhere without the help of their music teachers.

Oprah's Angel Network

  Although my blog is primarily about music, I really want to promote a charity I feel strongly about. I feel that Oprah's Angel Network is making a massive impact in many underprivileged people's lives. The main focus of this organization is to improve communities, education, and basic rights for those who are not already blessed with these things. The Angel Network has reached out to people in America, Africa and Asia. They have built schools and homes and have given many young people a chance for a brighter future. Every child deserves a chance to succeed in life, which is something many of us take for granted. I encourage all of my readers to get involved with making a difference, even if it is with a different organization that the Angel Network. However, if you are interested in getting involved with Oprah's organization you can go online and figure out ways too donate, volunteer, and start a giving circle. Go too: www.oprahsangelnetwork.org. Also, check out my PSA below to learn more about the organization and what you can do.

Nickel Creek

First the Facts

Nickel Creek, a band with an un-named genre, is from southern California and has a fresh and different sound. The band is composed of three people, including mandolinist Chris Thile, guitarist Sean Watkins, and violinist Sara Watkins. The band's genre has been described as many things such as bluegrass and progressive acoustic. The three members have mastered the blending and integrating of many different genres in order to create their own unique and personal style. The use of the three different instruments gives the members of Nickel Creek a wide range of variety in their sound. the band is not only known for their songs with emotion filled lyrics, but also their fun and extraordinary instrumentals.

Now the Opinions

Although Nickel Creek has stopped recording and touring together for the time being, their music is definitely worth listening too. Their music is easy to relate too, and is a joy to listen too. The three members of the group are super talented and explore a wide range of emotions in their lyrics and sound. Although a fan cannot go to a concert of the band's because they aren't performing anymore, it is still possible to download their music on itunes.  However, if they do begin touring again, their shows are rumored to be amazing and fans should look into purchasing tickets. Their farewell concert was said to be one of the best and below is an interview with a Nickel Creek fan, Kayley Hooks, who attended the event. She gives details of the show, and opinions on the band.

Songs to download: Can't Complain, Helena, Jealous of the Moon, Scotch and Chocolate 

Miley Cyrus- Sweet 16

First the Facts

Miley Cyrus held her sixteenth birthday party on October fifth at Disneyland in California. It was a massive event, attended by many celebrities such as Cindy Crawford, Jennifer Love Hewitt, and her costars Emily Osment and Cody Linley. Not to mention the entire event was hosted by Tyra Banks. The event included an onstage performance by Miley where she sang four songs. Also performing was her father, Billy Ray, joined by her older sister, Brandi, and rumored boyfriend, Justin Gaston, in a rendition of "Achy Breaky Heart", a country music hit by Billy Ray Cyrus. Although her father warned her to "buckle up" when wishing her a Happy Birthday, Miley has not yet received a car. However, she did receive a Maltipoo puppy which she adores. Other gifts include a Tiffany's necklace from rumored friend/enemy Demi Lovato. 

Now the Opinions

Miley Cyrus's birthday party was over-the-top and definitely Super Sweet Sixteen worthy. Because Disneyland is such a child-friendly venue, it was perfect for Miley and her young fans. Miley is such a good role model for little girls because she maintains her good-girl image and behaves in a way that is befitting her age. That she performed on her birthday shows that Miley is not selfish or spoiled and that she cares a lot about her fans. With the way her career is going now, it is obvious that Miley will have even bigger birthdays to come.

Phish Announces Tour Dates

First The Facts

The rumors about Phish that were flying around earlier this month, written about in a previous blog, have turned out to be true. Phish has indeed gotten back together and announced three concerts. the concerts will be on the sixth, seventh, and eighth of March in 2009 in Hampton, Virginia. The venue will be the Hampton Coliseum and tickets go on sale on ticketmaster.com October 18, 2008.  Their website has promised additional touring for 2009 that will be announced soon. There are a limited number of tickets available, so keep that in mind when looking to buy tickets. 

Now the Opinions

Excitement is in the air as everyone is buzzing about the news that Phish is getting back together. These concerts are going to be a must-see for all Phish fans and tickets are going to be hard to come by. Although the concert is somewhat far, it will be worth the travel and money. Do not worry if the tickets become sold out (which they most likely will) because the touring in 2009 will soon be announced. Phish is an awesome band with incredible sound that is said to have great live performances. Do not miss the opportunity to see Phish in concert because it will be an amazing and unforgettable show. 

Britney's New Jam

First The Facts

Britney is back again, and this time with a new album to go with her three Moonmen she won at the VMA's this year. The album is called "Circus" and her first hit is called "Womanizer". The song is rumored to be directed towards Kevin Federline, calling him out on his inability to be faithful to her during their marriage. The music video for this song was directed by Joseph Kahn and is expected to have the normal Britney sexiness. The video has not aired yet but it has been compared to the "You Drive Me Crazy" video from her earlier career. The new song is going to be aired on the newest episode of The Hills September twenty-ninth. 

Now The Opinions

Britney's new jam, "Womanizer", is very upbeat and has that girl-power quality. It is a fun song that is a total sing-a-long. The lyrics are in true Britney form with an in-your-face vibe. Britney fans who love her pop sound will love this new song and it is sure to be a hit on the radio.

On the other hand, this new jam is definitely a song for females.  Not many males would want to to be caught dead listening to a song that is called "Womanizer". Also, it is somewhat repetitive in the chorus (the only words really said are "your a womanizer'), which can get a little annoying after listening to it a few times. The sounds and lyrics are very similar to Britney's older stuff, which is frustrating because her music has not evolved what-so-ever. It is  time for something fresh. "Womanizer" is just... predictable. 

New Artist- Benji Davis Project

First The Facts

The Benji Davis Project, a small-town band from Louisiana, has been growing in popularity and gaining fans. They have been popular in Louisiana for a few years and have just recently been getting noticed. The group signed with Rock Ridge Music and is planning to release their most recent album, "Dust", nationally in November. They have several other albums, such as "More Than Local" and "The Angie House". Their sound is a mix of folk and rock and the lyrics are written by lead singer and the band's namesake, Benji Davis. Record executives are expecting big things out of the band. 

Now The Opinions

The folk-rock sound of Benji Davis is fun and has a lot of character. Their lyrics are upbeat and catchy and people are going to be able to relate with the music. Their music attracts people who are fans of many different genres and is fun to jam out too. Furthermore, the band is rumored to be spectacular stage performers. They create a fun live performance for the audience. However, they have only done small performances close to Louisiana. Hopefully they will soon be touring all over the United States. This band will soon be popular all over the radio on many different stations because it appeals to country music fans as well as rock music fans. Their newest album should be a hit when it goes to the stores and fan's should go out and buy.

  

Songs by The Benji Davis Project to download: Do it With the Lights On, Where The Heart Is, Louisiana Saturday Night

Jamie Lynn Photo Scandal

First the Facts

Photos of Jamie Lynn Spears breast feeding have been made public after their mysterious disappearance. The pictures went missing after Spear's boyfriend took them to Walmart to be developed. Because Spears is not of age, the revealing photos could be considered as child pornography. Federal officials are now searching to recover the pictures and discover who took them. Anyone who is caught trying to purchase the stolen pictures will be prosecuted.

Now the Opinions

First off, whoever got the bright idea to take pictures of a celebrity to be developed, at Walmart no less, is missing a few brain cells. Of course they are going to get stolen and of course they are going to be posted on the internet or other places. The revealing nature of the photographs should have hinted to Spears and her boyfriend that taking them to be developed at Walmart was not a good plan. They simply should have printed it off their own personal computers. Secondly, the fact that people will stoop so low to get such personal pictures makes me sick. Its called privacy, learn how to respect it. 

I feel sorry for Jamie Lynn, first she gets exposed for being a pregnant teen, now there is pictures of her circulating around. I have to believe that if she had a better role model in her mother or her sister that she would make better life decisions. 

Because her reputation is so wrecked, I doubt she will never be able to be on child shows again. Mothers do not want their children idolizing someone who had a child at age sixteen. I don't believe that it is our right to pass judgement, but I can see the situation from a mother's point of view.

Spears has to understand that she has to protect herself and her own child by making better decisions. The child needs to be raised in a healthy environment. This has already been compromised by the photo scandal.

Talent Close to Home

First the Facts
Tommy Forrestal, a student at DWS, has shown a lot of musical talent when it comes to playing the guitar. Tommy got his first guitar for his eleventh birthday and started taking lessons a couple months after that. He took lessons on and off for almost four and a half years but stopped when his teacher moved. After that, he decided he knew enough to teach himself.
Tommy plays at least an hour every day, depending on how much homework he has. He has collaborated with many different people who play intruments but most frequently plays with Graham Davis, a fellow guitar player and DWS student. They are in a group called "The Offseason" in which they have recorded many songs and played a few small shows. Although they have not had much time to make music lately, Tommy, also the quaterback for the Knights, hopes that they will be able to start back up once football season is over.

Now Some Fun Stuff
Tommy has taught some guitar lessons to his little brother as well as another DWS student, Emily Stubbs, but nothing to "bring in any dough". He has considered teaching for a summer job, but finds that he lacks the modivation to do it.
Tommy's favorite type of music to play is jam band music, such as Dave Matthews, Phish, and Umphrey's McGee. He claims that, " If you don't like these bands, you don't have a soul". Tommy considers Dave Matthews to be one of the greatest musicians on the planet.
Tommy has written his own music, but never writes down any lyrics because he claims he "can't sing to save his life". Most of the time, he just plays chords and puts them together if they sound good; but he rarely remembers them the next day. However, he claims that if he writes something worth listening too, he will give a shout out.

Artist Profile: Keller Willliams

First the Facts

A fresh an talented musician, Keller Williams, have been recieving a lot of attention lately. The 38 year old american singer from Virginia, who began performing in the 1990's, is very intrumentally talented when it comes to the guitar. His music can be fit into many genres including folk, bluegrass, and funk. His unique sound has began recieving a lot of attention from fans old and young.

Now the Opinions

Keller Williams sounds are uique and funky. Fans are captivated by his whimsical lyrics and out-of-this-world guitar playing. He is also very entertaining as he is a "one man band". His music is mellow and playful which attracts many fans who have a sense of humor. In concert, Williams is said to create a fun dance vibe, of which an audience can enjoy.

songs to download by Keller Williams: "Restraint" and "I Could Drink a Case of You"

Britney- No More Drama

First the Facts

Britney Spears, normally subject to ridicule rather than praise, received three Moonman awards at the VMA's sunday night. This included Best Female Video, Best Pop Video, and Video of the Year. She earned these awards with her top-charting video, "Piece of Me", which was popular for a large portion of the year. Britney appeared pleasantly shocked and excited about her winnings.

Now the Opinions

Things are looking better and better for Britney. She made a major comeback Sunday night with her impressive behavior. She was "all business" as she acted in a way to mend her image. Her appearance was also impressive as it seems she has been taking better care of herself. Hopefully even better things will become of her new found normality.

Peace, Love, and Panic

I want to dish about...

the upcoming Widespread Panic concert

First the Facts

Widespread Panic is coming to Atlanta, Georgia for a two day concert event. It will be held in October on the seventeenth and eighteenth. The concert will be held at the Lakewood Amphitheater and will start at 5:30 in the evening. Tickets are now on sale. The lawn tickets will be sold for $31.oo apiece per night; however, it is $75.oo for a set of four tickets for one night. Reserved seats are $44.50 apiece per night and G.A. pit seats are $54.50. Tickets can be bought on ticketmaster.com. 

Now the Opinions

This concert will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that a fan would not want to miss out on. If you live in Georgia, the travel to Atlanta won't be terribly far and the Lakewood Amphitheater is a great concert venue. The tickets are reasonably priced and what a concert goer will get out of the experience will be worth every penny. A piece of advice to those who go to the concert: be sure to wear comfy shoes and bring a blanket to sit on if your on the lawn. The Widespread Panic concert will be an awesome event that fans around Georgia should attend.

VMA Performers

I want to dish about...

The artists performing in the VMAs

First the Facts

VH1 has announced the artists that will be performing in the VMAs. The annual award show will be a host to many hip artists such as Kanye West, Rihanna, Foo Fighters, Fall Out Boy, Nelly Furtado, Timbaland, Chris Brown, Mark Ronson, T-Pain, Cee-low, Common, and Gym Class Heros. New additions to the list include Soulja Boy, 50 cent, and Akon. The group of high-profile artists are expected to give very entertaining performances. 

Now the Opinions

VH1 made a smart choice when they decided that Soulja Boy would perform. The crank dat dance became huge this year and fans will be very excited to watch that performance. Furthermore, Chris Brown always gives a stellar performance with his high-energy, complicated dance moves. Meanwhile, Rihanna will wow the audience with her awesome vocals. This talent-filled group of performers is sure to wow viewers everywhere and give an outstanding show.

Phishy Business?

I want to dish about...

The rumors that Phish might get back together.
 

can it be true??

First the Facts

Popmatters.com recently interviewed long-time Phish lyricist, Tom Marshall and addressed the rumors about the band's reunion. Marshall claimed that he had been working with band member Trey Anastasio for the past four months in the studio recording and writing. Trey has expressed a desire to get the band back together. However, no member of the band has officially announced a reunion. Phish recently received a lifetime achievement Jammy Award and, even though the band did not perform, Anastasio did a cameo of a Beetle's song with other artists.

Now the Opinions

Phish fans are waiting with bated breath to learn more about the rumors. I for one would be ecstatic if the band got back together. Kayley Hooks, who told me about the rumor, said she thought that be "totally awesome." I love their chill sounds that are perfect for cruising. Although I don't think the band will ever be MTV material, I believe they would receive a great response from fans. If Phish decide to go back on tour, I encourage all the bloggers out there to go to a concert. But if not, I will be going to one and there definitely be a blog about it!

Katy Perry

I want to dish about..

How Katy Perry has been named artist of the week by MTV.

First the Facts.

Katy Perry is one of the hippest, up-coming artists on MTV. Her song, I Kissed A Girl, has become an instant hit and is played frequently on the radio. The music video is shown regularly on FNMTV premiers and has received very good fan feedback. Perry has been nominated for two 2008 MTV music awards in the Best Female Video and Best New Artist categories. She will up against many well-known artists such as Miley Cyrus, Mariah Carey, Rihanna, and Taylor Swift for the award.

Now The Opinions.

Many Perry fans love the bi-curious song, I kissed a Girl. These people appreciate the cutting-edge song and its raciness. Not to mention its catchy lyrics and upbeat tempo. However, those who are not fans think the song is pointless and emotionless. I am with these people. I feel like the song is some stupid joke and the people who like only do because the song is on MTV. Furthermore, the homophobic people of the world are absolutely horrified by the chart-topping song because of its risque lyrics describing people of the same sex. Even those like myself who are accepting of people who are homosexual are a little disturbed. Also, I cannot stand how easily it gets stuck in your head. Either way, the song has been gaining popularity since it came on the scene and most likely won't be going away anytime soon. 

LeRoi Moore R.I.P

I want to dish about...

The unexpected death of Leroi Moore, the forty-six year old saxophone player for Dave Matthews Band.

First the Facts.

Moore passed away August 19, 2008, after injuries from an ATV accident. Rolling Stone online wrote that Moore received a punctured lung and broken ribs from the accident, which occurred on his farm in Virginia. Since Moore's hospitalization, Jeff Coffin has been filling in during concerts. He will continue to do so for the rest of the tour. However, it is not certain what will happen after the tour is over.

Now The Opinions.

The death of LeRoi Moore has devastated Dave Matthew's fans everywhere. His performances were viewed as extremely talent-filled and entertaining. Through-out the nation, fans are mourning their losses. A Dave fan here at school, Carly Mathis, claimed that his death was "one of the saddest things ever". She speaks for all of us fans as we deal with this loss. I for one am still in mourning.

myself

now i want to dish about myself...

i'm Devon B.

i like all things most girls do... tanning... fashion... music... and boys. I also like to cheer for my schools football team. Everyone should definitly come out and watch the game thursday! I have been taking dancing since i was a little girl and take classes in the four major areas of dance: tap, jazz, ballet, and pointe. Im a relatively good student, however, i have been in my senior slump since freshman year. My hobbies include facebooking, watching movies, and going out with the girls.

I want to blog about music. I find that my taste in music is very broad and i can talk about all different genres. I want to help people find the good stuff. There is nothing better than a really good cd to jam out to in the car!