surfingthesoundwaves

Double Vision

HELLERRRRRR.

So, seeing as it’s Tuesday, and Saturday’s are my usual post date…I know I’m late. Can I be completely honest though? I’m just over this quarantine shit. It’s 11pm the night before I am posting this. Usually, I am so excited and feeling so creative my posts are scheduled like a week before. This past week, I just was NOT havin’ it. Everyone’s starting to feel a little fatigued, so I’m sure y’all get it. My life is usually different each day, so for once, sticking to a routine is super boring. ANYWAYS.

I’m sure a lot of you are wondering what this title is about, some may be questioning if I now wear glasses. Undetermined, cannot see a doctor right now, but I’ll letcha know. However, this post is about my double life. I’M COMING CLEAN.

A lot of confusion has circled around a lot of things I’ve been posting. Various playlists that aren’t in my name, posts from a different Instagram, and now more blog posts. I’m basically coming for Hannah Montana’s neck. So, I thought I would use this post to clear the air.

When I first started my job, I abandoned this blog for a little bit, my baby. Then, when I got temporarily fired, I came back to it. Like a shitty ex. TYPICAL. Now, I am trying to find the right balance. So, during the week, if you see me promoting any fun blog posts about merch drops, or artist singles, still go support! I promise I am being just as goofy over there as I am here. I mean, today I literally took to my work’s twitter to question Elon Musk’s baby’s name. Who can say they get to do that for their job?? ME.

Right now, with the world being so crazy, I am trying to put as much passion as I can into this and that. I know, this kind of sounds like an apology video on Youtube, or me trying to say I want a break. Which, definitely is not the case. I just wanted to clear the air on why now there’s DOUBLE the content from me. It’s almost like you’re seeing my new twin. My professional spawn. However, I’m not really being Miss 9-5 blazer bitch over there either. I’m super lucky!

I will admit, yes, I am exhausted mentally. I never slow down and am constantly thinking of my next move, the future, and my financials. When right now, we all know, all of that is a little fuzzy. ANXIETY. So, I try and focus on the good, on BOTH my platforms now.

So, what can you expect from me over there? Way more content. I will be pushing as many blog posts as I can. Lucky for you, they will be shorter. Also, everyone’s favorite, PLAYLISTS!! I will link below my most recent, as it will be an ever changing playlist. As well as more in the works, you’ll just have to keep up with me at twice the speed. I will obviously be updating mine often as well. Now you are the lucky ones. If you love Twitter, I’ll be cracking jokes 24/7. If you love looking at pics of cute clothes, consider it online window shopping. I’ll provide you with that as well. You now get more of me! I hope you’re ready.

Just thought I’d use this post as a way to fill you in, as I move along at rapid speed, while still staying perfectly still at the same time (in my work from home office)(aka my room). SO, until Saturday…see you pals on the socials.

Check out a funky fresh playlist I made:

TWERK OUT

Guys…I think I just hit the jackpot?? MUSIC WORKOUTS. I know, I know. You have probably already seen these before, but if you haven’t, I hope you’re as excited as me.

So, here I am, 10pm on what would usually be a wild Friday night out at the bars. Instead, I am sitting in bed watching a girl create workouts based on popular songs we all know and love. Turn down for what, am I right??

Seriously though, this shit is genius. Of course, I got roped in by seeing a song by The Weeknd first. After that, I was sold. She goes by MadFit, and without even trying her workouts yet, I am obsessed. You know it’s the first thing I am going to be doing tomorrow.

If you’re like me, you’re looking for any reason to dance. This pandemic tragically took away any form of concert and music festival for the remaining year. I won’t talk your ear off about it anymore than i already have. Promise. However, as much as working out from the comfort of my own living room sounds amazing, I need more of a party. Since ya know, we can’t actually rage anywhere right now. This is everything anyone could ever ask for. Not only do you get to dance to your favorite beat, but also burn calories! My favorite.

Now, if you aren’t necessarily looking for the dance party vibe, and don’t want to feel left out, she also has regular workouts as well. Something I really enjoy about these is that they’re short. Which means you can combine a bunch of them and create a little workout playlist. Or, if you’re not up for that, you can just do one as a warm-up or cool down. You really have free reign to do whatever you want with these, which is awesome. For my friends who cannot get to the gym right now, and may not have the means to pay for online classes, these are for you! For my current gym buddies, let’s add these into our daily routines too!

If you REALLY want to ramp it up, and I mean ten fold. I recommend working out to your favorite DJ’s sets on youtube. For example, the other day, I was listening to Loud Luxury’s Room Service Set while on a walk. I noticed that every song was fast paced, just begging for my heart rate to skyrocket. So, I came home, hijacked my sister’s indoor spin bike and went to town. It was amazing. I almost threw up, so you KNOW it was a killer workout. The set will be linked below for all my cardi-hoes. Get it? Wink wink. However, if you’re just a person of your own groove, or want a little more muscle toning tunes, I HAVE A PLAYLIST FOR THAT. You’re welcome in advance. Will also be linked below.

I’m keeping today’s post short and sweet, and concluding with three of my favorite workouts of MadFit. As well as Loud Luxury’s set. OH AND, my own twerky werky playlist. That way, instead of wasting time listening to me babble about it, you can be about it! Let me know if you try any of these, and let me know if you love them like me! Let’s get movin’ babyyyyyyy.

MADFIT:

LOUD LUXURY SET:

MY OWN PERSONAL SET:

Orange Crush Baby

Has anyone ever noticed how Orange Crush Soda is always just associated with Summer? I don’t think anyone is reaching for it in the cold Winter months. However, is anyone reaching for it in general? I’ve recently discovered that I am surrounded by people who hate orange flavored things. From Starburst, energy drinks, even to sodas. I feel like an oddball out, but in the best way.

I’ve always loved orange flavors and colors. If you’re feeling bold, peruse my Facebook. I had a pair of neon pants that would perfectly go with the theme of today’s post. Fortunately, those pants saw the light of a dumpster, many moons ago. However, I won’t say I don’t think about them from time to time.

Has anyone noticed how oranges are somehow always associated with groovy vibes? Or is it just me? I feel like the 80’s just loved orange more than we do. Any groovy song, whether it’s Pop or R&B always seems to have an orange background, more often than not. I also feel like they just drank way more soda back then, am I wrong about that too? Like what time period were the Fanta girls from? Someone let me know, I’ll wait. Here I am, just trying to draw any connections to my fave era. Let me live.

That was past me, but present me still loves a little orange moment from time to time. My favorite energy drink right now is, Celsius. Apparently the “healthy” version of Redbull, with enough caffeine to put pep in my step at 5:30am. Or, at 9am, you know how quarantine hours work. My favorite flavor? Orange. You just CAN’T do orange flavoring wrong. Does it taste like Cuties? Not really. However, not far off. I mean, c’mon, have y’all tried grape flavors?? WHAT IS THAT? Anyways, we are veering off topic.

When thinking of my love for orange flavored Celsius, I think of songs that put me in an uplifting Summer mood. Isn’t that what we all need right now? Before some of you knew me as the girl who’s head is so far up Dillon Francis’ ass, I was as Indie pop as it came. So much so, that I really didn’t have the mental capacity to enjoy any other types of music. I really went through a phase of only liking underground sounds. However, that’s okay! Now, I’ve morphed into my final form. I can listen to anything, such a threat I know. While I still love to rave in the night hours, the daytime is when I like to center myself. I find it hard to have total peace of mind, while hearing insane WOMP WOMP in the background. So, I busted out my old record player, and reconnected with some older sounds. Suddenly, I was feeling lighter, and more creative. Crazy how that works right?

That’s where I created this playlist. I have a feeling it has a little something for everyone. While I say that all the time, this time I mean it. Want to do some yoga? Listen to this playlist? Sitting on your floor writing a blog post? Listen to this playlist. Just generally trying to feel some good vibes? THIS PLAYLIST.

I know a lot of people will never understand this part of my creative process, but I love to go on daily drives. For some reason, it’s when I can really disconnect. With the windows down, COVID-19 filling my car, and the music blasting, I can think. Which is terrifying for all of you. I found out I have so much to say! The song that makes me feel most creative on this playlist is, “I Follow Rivers – The Magician Remix by Lykke Li.” She’s such a classic, good vibes soul. I know what you’re thinking, A REMIX? Don’t worry, it is mellow. However, if you want to zen out even more, you can listen to the original. Just as good. This also wouldn’t be a TRUE Orange Crush playlist, without a couple tracks off of Frank Ocean’s, “Channel Orange.” This album I think pulled me out of my quarantine depression. I hope it does the same for you.

So, what’s my point? Well, I know most of the world is truly going through IT right now. So, in the midst of the madness, it’s important to find the little things that make you happy. As well as the small things that make you feel centered. It’s all we have control over right now! I also know a lot of us are always trying to become the best versions of ourselves. This awkward time is the perfect chance to do that! It’s totally okay to go back to a version of yourself, you might have left behind. Sometimes, if you mix the old with the new, you create something amazing. For me, I created this playlist. Seems small to you, but to me, it really turned my lockdown around. So, I encourage you to dig into something that once brought you joy, and mix it with your current activities. You may be surprised at the outcome!

Coachella – A Look Back

As you can tell from the title, we are about to take a fun trip down memory lane. I actually let out a little chuckle when forming the name of this disaster piece. It sounds so serious. When in reality, I am going to sum up MY Coachella for you. Not from the documentary, not Diplo’s experience, but little ol’ me.

Why not start from the beginning?

2014. This is about to be my first music festival ever, this is the year that released my inner “COACHELLA IS MY LIIIIIIIFE” beast. All it took was one weekend. I think this year was so special, because it just encapsulated my year of firsts. Concluding my first year of college, my first year of living out of state, with my first festival. Get this, nothing went wrong. When you are new to the Indio Valley festival, everything feels so dreamy. It’s hard to even focus on the blood dripping down your ankles, from the poor choice in sandals. You just feel so free! This lineup was just a flower crown wearing bitch’s dream. Lana Del Rey, Disclosure, Lorde, Foster the People, and so many more. Honestly, looking at the poster right now, you can tell the lineup was way less impacted. Less artists, for more time to see everyone. It’s hard to pick a favorite for me from that year, everyone was so amazing. However, if you look at the 2014 lineup compared to 2020, it proves my theory correct. I have this conspiracy in my head that every few years, the lineup repeats itself. Don’t believe me? Take a look for yourself. I’ll wait.

2015, we skipped. As you can imagine, my little heart was broken. I was just starting to get into The Weeknd, I know, I was late. However, when I first start listening to an artist, I am infatuated. My friends at the time, didn’t understand. Honestly, I’m not really sure they still do?? Does anyone?? Oh wow. Anyways, so we didn’t go, I threw a tantrum. Next.

2016, everyone’s favorite year of mine. HONESTLY, I am going to come out and say that this was the most iconic Coachella. I mean, yes, the lineup was insane. Like Guns N Roses?? Iconic. Ahem, if you would like to take a look at my conspiracy theory again…go ahead and compare 2014 to this lineup as well. Again, I’ll wait! So, if you are really new here, I will link below one of my first tales on here. “Pineapple Cider In Indio.” One of my best works, if I do say so myself. I need you to read that first, and then we can meet back here. Okay? Okay. With it being 4 years later, I can confidently say, I still have not had Pineapple Cider again. I just know the flavor will take me back to that hot desert. However, it may be kinda funny. Should I try them again for old times sake? Shit. Maybe I did blackout off of two ciders that year. Maybe that blackout was a product of heatstroke. We will never know. All I know is, Matt and Kim will never be the same. Honestly, I haven’t even really listened to their music since then either. Again, IF YOU KNOW YOU KNOW.

2017, our last year of college baby! Also, our last year of Coachella as a trio. For those of you who don’t know. I used to frequent concerts with my two best friends, Alex and Summer. Rightfully so, they decided to tap out after this year. Again, I wrote about it, will link down below. For a little recap though, this was the first year we decided to try car camping. NEVER AGAIN HUNNIES. The phrase, “You live and you learn,” really came into play here. Lineup wise? Fantastic. Beyoncé decided she didn’t want to give birth on stage, and I think we all kind of resent her a little bit for that. Lady Gaga was her replacement though, and personally, I think she’s amazing. Did we go see her? Nope! We had other things to do. Like carrying around a haunted purse for the weekend. Confused? Good. To make a long story short, Summer found a purse on the ground and decided to carry it around. Waiting for the perfect time to take it to lost and found, which honestly was inconvenient to our busy schedules. However, once we obtained that purse, we realized maybe it was better lost. Bad shit on bad shit kept happening to us. Right up until we turned the purse back in. Oh you want me to explain what I mean? Almost immediately after we got the lost item, our friend’s phone vanished. Poof. You wanted to take a video of the next set? Sorry. Super bummer. THEN. Guys…..then. Our campsite caught on fire. I literally cannot make this stuff up. Alex decided that Ramen was a good idea for camping. Which, I agreed. However, the mini stove she brought with had other plans. Like to simply blow up. As if our tent living was not impoverished enough. Just look at the cover photo for this post. Enough said.

2018, honestly the year that changed my life. I didn’t even go to Coachella this year. Alex and Summer decided enough was enough. However, ONCE AGAIN, The Weeknd was on the lineup. Insert X-Files theme song here. I was in full tantrum mode. I’m talking crying at work tantrum mode, then taking shots all night. Classic! However, a beam of light. Life is Beautiful Festival. That was my redemption moment, and I cannot thank Alex and Summer enough for unintentionally giving me a push to try something new.

2019, the last Coachella. LOL. I’m being so dramatic. However, it feels like 2020 doesn’t count for anything right now, so it’s true. This is my first Coachella with my new lil squad. Alana and Emily. More always join, but the three of us stay constant, and stay connected at the hip. It’s not like one of us totally has a little fun with our girl Molly and thinks that it’s time to run around and make friends with strangers. Who would do that? Psh. This is their first Coachella, and I feel like I put it on myself. While at this point, I am favoring Life is Beautiful a tad more, I don’t let on. It’s freaking Coachella, you can feel the hype all throughout the air. Oh what’s that? Chuck from Gossip Girl just casually walked by to get some water? NO BIGGIE. Lineup? Phenomenal. This was the year I really tapped into my EDM phase. As a true Dillon Francis groupie, I must say, Sunday night was the winner for me. However, my friends introduced me to Gryffin this trip, and my life hasn’t been the same since.

ALL IN ALL. I know this is a really sad time for music festival lovers out there. People call us basic, and hate us for our singing Instagram videos. I get it. However, waking up this morning, I decided I didn’t want to think about the negative. It’s all that is going around right now. Instead, I am using COVID-19 to re-center, and think about how grateful I am. We all work hard to make our festival dreams come true. Or, if you’re like me, you spend money you don’t have and reap the consequences of debt for a year. Whatever your flow is, we will be dancing soon. Hell, we can even be dancing now. So many good live streams for the Indie lover, or the EDM lover. Just tune in, and disconnect for a second. I promise, it slightly helps. Just a little.

https://surfingthesoundwaves.com/2018/05/18/pineapple-cider-in-indio/

https://surfingthesoundwaves.com/2018/05/30/burnin-up-in-indio/

WHAT HAPPENS IN THE AFTER HOURS?

The Weeknd dropped his album ten days ago, and I am now finally ready to talk about it. Technically, he released three bonus tracks yesterday (March 30), which I still haven’t fully digested. However, the show must go on.

If you’re wondering how I am writing this so calmly, it’s because on Day 1, I spilled wine all over my computer in excitement. My 2013 Macbook almost did not recover from that, truly. Also, not going to lie, this album has me moody as hell. The lyrics are dark and sad, in OG Abel fashion. However, the beat is bangin. So, clearly, my mind and my body are in two different stages. Do we want to dance or cry? I guess in quarantine both is acceptable. Also, can I just point out that the music hits so different while being locked inside your house. You have no choice but to digest the lyrics quicker. My usual method of operation is to drive around and listen to a new album. Sounds like a total waste of gas and extremely pointless, but IT’S MY GROOVE AND I LIKE IT. However, driving with the windows down and music blasting, is a little less appealing with a nasty virus circulating.

Okay let’s get into it, bonus tracks included.

So, here’s the deal with The Weeknd. His albums are meant to tell a story. Same goes for his music videos. If you check out his Youtube channel, start with Heartless. Every recent video after that picks up where the last one left off. Keep this in mind as we move down the line of songs.

We start off with the track, “Alone Again.” Yep, you already know this shit is going to be sad. However, you keep going, because you’re addicted to his voice. I won’t go track by track, because you lazy asses can do that yourself. For this album, The Weeknd went rogue with his promo. From teasing songs on his Instagram stories, to full on performing an unreleased song on SNL, we really had no idea where he was going. He debuted “Scared To Live,” on SNL, as a shock to everyone. My initial reaction was, am I a fake fan?? I assumed this song had been out for ages, and I just missed it. However, upon taking to Twitter, I realized it was brand new. It was lovely. The song has him really self reflecting, and giving his ex (Bella – we all know), some closure. Admitting he was the reason she was hurting, and that she shouldn’t be scared to go live her life without him. WHAT A KING.

The album gets a little darker, before we can all start dancing again. “Escape From LA,” really struck me immediately. It’s honestly a little sad once you realize the parallels from his first album to now. If you are a fan of “The Morning,” you’ll know that he was talking about California being the goal. “Order plane tickets, Cali is the mission…” You know. However, like any other person who moves to LA expecting something spectacular, he is over it. He sings, “Cali was the mission, but now a n**** leavin.” A little sad that this city couldn’t be what he wanted. I will say, growing up in LA’s surrounding areas vs. moving here fresh, sounds like an entirely different experience. If you don’t have the right mindset, all of a sudden you’re stuck with superficial people, wanting to live an Instagrammable life. No substance. However, I think he might be doing just fine.

A cult favorite, “Heartless,” is up next. Here is where he starts to take us home dancing. Also, remember when I mentioned everything telling a story? This chunk of songs is where it becomes clear. Initially, I had no idea. After seeing a well thought out Reddit thread, I finally saw the light. In this track he talks about being back to his old ways. Money, sex, and drugs. Casual! The next song, while still an absolute bop, gets a little dark. The end we hear sirens, which leads into another favorite, “Blinding Lights.” Here’s where the Reddit thread threw me for a loop. APPARENTLY the lights that are blinding him, are the AMBULANCE LIGHTS??? Who knew?? Not me. I was busy Tik Tok dancing to the song.

Let’s talk about the bonus tracks he released only a MERE day ago. I feel like they have been out for longer, because I got lucky when I popped in on his live stream last week. He was playing them like they were nothing. No biggie, just some unreleased songs you guys have never heard. They’re all extremely mellow. Songs about missing his ex. Classic. And then a “Final Lullaby” to end it all. Who doesn’t love a lil sleepy time trio to fuel their six quarantine naps?

I am going to end this by talking out of my ass for a second. Yes, it sucks that everything is cancelled. Yes, it sucks that we are all out of work (or some of us). Also, yes, it sucks that we can’t be social with the ones we love. BUUUUUUT, it doesn’t suck that all our artists are releasing things they’re proud of, even in moments like this. So, let’s take the time to stream their albums, watch their livestream, and give them praise. After all, right now, all we have is music to get us through this. Okay that is probably not true for 99% of people. It feels like it though.

So lastly, wash your hands you disgusting monsters. I don’t know about you, but I am so beyond ready to go to an open plot of land and start dancing.

See you later skaters.

PS: Remember when I saw The Weeknd for the first time? Check below.

I LIED…

Hey….

I’m here! I know. Right now, I look like the shady ex who is coming back when he’s bored. That is TOTALLY not the reason. I for sure do not have slightly extra downtime now that there is a crazy virus going around. Couldn’t be true. I lied, that is EXACTLY what is going on here.

The truth is, I really had no idea what I was in for when I wrote the last post. Don’t get me wrong, work is going better than I imagined (oh, just wait), in such a short amount of time! However, it is hard to balance this AND that. My itty bitty, teeny tiny brain is struggling. Good news though, I have tons of music stuff to recap you on! This week you’ll be hearing from me at LEAST twice, and I’m going to tell you why.

First off…THE WEEKND IS FINALLY DROPPING HIS ALBUM TONIGHT. I will need some time to emotionally balance myself. He released the track names a few days ago and let me tell you, we will all be in our feelings. Could not be more perfect timing. Who doesn’t want to think about their ex who ruined their life, while being quarantined against their will inside? I know I am definitely looking forward to that. If you have been living under a rock, now is the perfect time to catch up on his last three songs, before the album hits.

Now, this is where things get juicy. Remember when I was talking about work? Well, it seems like COVID-19 is releasing it’s wrath on the music industry, myself included. While it is definitely scary, I am learning to find the beauty in the quiet. OR if we want to keep things on theme with The Weeknd, I am learning to find the Beauty Behind The Madness. We’re all going to get through this together! Filing for unemployment, and not really knowing the future of your job, definitely is scary. However, it makes me feel a little better, knowing that a lot of people are going through the same thing. It also has me feeling extremely sympathetic to all my favorite artists, who’s dreams of playing certain festivals/tours have come to a halt.

Okay…moving on! Speaking of festivals. If you don’t know who the mastermind of Insomniac is, his name is Pasquale. I know, a unique name, for a unique person. Instead of leaving the world without music, and the artists without a platform, he is running online streams. Beyond Wonderland, was postponed until this summer. However, we will be getting a mock festival, all from our phones! Let me just say, Loud Luxury was not on the San Bernardino lineup, but they will be playing! Keep checking in with Insomniac and Pasquale for more information, they have been going live almost daily on Instagram.

With that being said, it hasn’t been that long that we have all had to resort to staying inside. This is probably the best time to find new music, right?? Something I have discovered recently, and then rekindled with this quarantine, is MINT Canada. Usually, I try to keep my music talk pretty broad, to include Apple Music AND Spotify. However, Spotify is winning today’s round. It struck me that I probably listen to a lot of Canadian artists, because this was recommended to me, as opposed to just the MINT playlist in general. I assume that one is generally based toward Americans. Let me just say, Canada knows where it’s AT. I was addicted to this playlist at one point on a random day at work. Yesterday, it popped up on my recommendation, with new tunes to check out. Now, this playlist is not for everyone, I’M SORRY. Typically ranges anywhere from underground house music, to regular EDM. Not everyone’s cup of tea.

So, while I have nothing better to do than to rekindle my love for this blog, I will be on the hunt for new music for EVERYONE. Playlists for the indie lover, and playlists for you sad bitches who love to cry. We’re all in this together….as soon as I decided to actually make my payment on this website. Times are hard OKAY.

This past week leading up to the album, The Weeknd has been imposing an important message that I want to leave this with. “Let music heal us.” While everyone at the end of the day may not have the same interests, or same career paths, I know we all love music. I mean that’s why you’re here, right? So, I will leave you with that thought in mind. Whatever emotions you’re feeling on lockdown, let the voices of others heal you!

See you sooooooooon…I promise this time.

2020 New Beginnings

Happy New Year! I thought I would start my first post in 2020 with a little life update. Maybe even take you on a little journey in my personal UFO if that’s okay with you? Throw in a little spicy storytime. Who knows.

So, what is this all about? YOUR GIRL GOT A NEW JOB. I have kept everyone in the dark about this situation, except for my close friends, up until very recently. I just wanted to marinate in the moment, okay?? I didn’t want to wake up and have it all be fake. If you are attentive, I briefly mentioned in my post about Life Is Beautiful, I quit my job to be there. Aren’t I so fun and dramatic? In all reality, I quit my job, and THEN went to have my own celebration at the festival. However, I never really touched base on anything after that. You want to know why? Finding a job was hard as hell that’s why.

Let me backtrack quickly for a second. Upon graduating college, I thought with my thin paper degree, I was set. However, I was brought back to reality, shortly after that thought crossed my mind. For some, finding a job in their career path was actually simple. They had their minds made up in college, and stuck with it. While I always truly knew where my heart was heading, I constantly teetered on if it was “doable.” This is why in college, I didn’t think to look for internships or simple music jobs. I was ignoring my heart and my gut. So, that just meant I was going to have to bust my ass from that moment forward. Which is exactly what I have been doing for the last 2 years. I took a small break after graduation and was ready to grind. I took a small part-time job at a bar in Orange County, which I still hold very near and dear to my heart. While it was only a marketing and promotions position, I figured this title would look great for an entry level music job. I got settled in the job, and continued to look elsewhere. My heart could not rest. I loved the bar and I loved the family that it provided me, but I still felt restless. Coming home from music festivals I was sad, almost like I was longing for more. I MEAN I WAS. I just didn’t know what.

Now, we’re approaching Fall 2019. Life Is Beautiful is around the corner, and my heart is starting to become unhappy. It is becoming increasingly obvious to the people around me. I am no longer where I need to be. While at one point, this job was the first step in the right direction, now it was time to put another foot forward. So, I quit. Didn’t even give my parents more than a 2 weeks notice, like my boss. I set my last day to be right before the music festival, so I could have one last chance to dance. Not forever, c’mon. Just ya know, before I cried every night applying to jobs. If you know me, you know that’s exactly what my sensitive ass did.

I mean, it wasn’t all bad. I did spend countless nights crying in frustration. Wouldn’t you?? If your initial thought was “no,” maybe sit at your computer for 8 hours a day, emailing the void. Now occasionally those emails did produce a response. However, the majority of the response was negative. This is what differentiates 2019 me from 2017 me. In 2017, I would see the rejection, get mad, and quit. This time, I saw the rejection and used it as a fire to spark my next move. Don’t get me wrong though, I still cried…A LOT. All the tears eventually paid off. In early December, I got an interview that would set the tone for my new decade. Upon leaving the interview, I went to visit my best friend at work. I remember telling her I HAD TO HAVE THAT JOB. I have never left an interview feeling like the perfect fit, until that moment. Like everyone should do when looking for a new job, follow up. Seriously. Be annoying. I emailed the company, and almost immediately got a response. It was good news, and he wanted to call me that Friday to finalize everything. This is where things come full circle for me.

Friday rolls around, and I am going on a girls trip to San Diego, for my friend’s birthday. We arrive a little early, so I can take my call in one of the rooms before the festivities begin. I got the job. At the time it still didn’t feel real, still doesn’t. However, this is where it all comes looping around. I quit my job a few months back, and had my last moment of stress-free bliss at one of my favorite music festivals. In San Diego, I started my NEW stress-free bliss dancing at Gryffin! See what I mean, full circle. What’s meant to be will be.

All this had me reminiscing on what my life has been like in the past two years. All the music festival moments, random vegas concerts, and spontaneous trips to go see my favorite artists. At the time, those were all the moments that inspired me the most. They still probably will in this new chapter of my life. All the “too drunk” moments at Coachella, blisters on my ankles, and post festival comedowns. Those were the memories that kept me working hard, and dreaming bigger.

Now, this definitely isn’t the end. With this new job, you’ll get to see me thrive even more. AND I AM GETTING PAID FOR IT??? Imagine that, getting paid to do something you love. I think I’ve heard some sayings about that in the past. What I can say for sure, is you can expect to still hear me scream singing all my favorite songs, except more frequently. This blog will still be thriving, once I find time and content. There are definitely more interviews coming up, so keep an eye out for that. Also, more music festivals, so possibly more disasters?? You know it’s bound to happen with me. Maybe this time someone will actually steal my Iphone 6, so I have no excuse to not get my upgrade. So, until the next musical journey we meet on, I’ll be back soon!!

Selena, You’re Better Than This.

Ah yes, the infamous pop culture couple. Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber. It feels like we have grown up with this relationship. From the beginning, to the end, we have seen it all with these two. Hopefully. I don’t want to jump straight into this and start ragging on Selena. So, let’s reel it back a little bit.

The year is 2011, maybe even 2012, they get a little jumbled in the mess. This is when the pair STARTED dating. Let that sink in. Most of us were youngins. Not even thinking about dating, but I mean they are relatively the same age. Just two super young celebrities, trying to navigate love, in the public spotlight. I mean wow. Can you imagine how hard that must be? Not only are you trying to get a grip on what dating is, but you hardly even know yourself at that point. So, imagine trying to do that with a whole nation looking at you. It is hard to imagine, I will give them that. However, they did not really need to make everything so public. As a couple, you have the power to choose what people know about the intimate details of your relationship. This is where things get a little messy.

In 2012, it seemed that the couple broke up, for the first time. Yeah I know, almost 7 years later and we are still not really sure what is actually happening anymore. So, they break up, seemingly for a couple years. Selena makes breakup songs, Justin goes on a drunken bender, the usual. They stayed off and on until about 2014. The pair just couldn’t make up their minds. However, the media loved it. We all loved it, right? I mean it’s a tale as old as time. When nothing interesting is happening in your own life, there is ALWAYS some celebrity drama. This is where things get a little messy. It seemed that in 2015, they really were ready to go their own ways. Gearing up for a 2015-2016 tour season, they were both starting to date other people. Justin decided to pair with Sofia Richie, and Selena with The Weeknd. Good choice girl. Well, you know it couldn’t just end there, right? Nope. It’s petty season boys and girls. Amid Justin having fun with his new boo, Selena couldn’t help but constantly throw her two cents in the social media mix. From tweeting about them rather obviously, to blatantly commenting on his pictures, you could tell she was starting to crack. Don’t worry, Justin wasn’t too happy about her short fling with The Weeknd either.

It appeared The Weeknd’s playboy energy was no match for Justin Bieber. After a mere 10 months, Selena dumped him. Only days later, she was seen with Justin one last time. This lasted on and off again for about two years. They broke up early 2018, where Justin quickly ran back to Hailey Baldwin, someone he was seen with at some point in this messy timeline. Well, flash forward to now. Hailey traded Baldwin for Bieber, and the two are still happily married to this day. Now what about Selena?

The star seemingly decided to take a break from everything. Deactivated some social media, just basically disappeared. Honestly, a power move. It is so extremely hard to try and move on these days. Going off the grid is really your only option, especially as a celebrity. Now, this is where I have an issue.

Clearly, this relationship had been doomed from the start. Once the two began to grow older, emotional abuse and alcoholism began to take a toll on the two. While I know everyone’s side of the story is different, this is just the general realm of what we’ve all been hearing. However, I know how easy it is to go back to something familiar. My issue is not that. I have an issue with the way Selena has been attacking the other women. Anytime I see a Twitter drama account reporting the news, it never seems to have anything positive about Selena moving on anymore. I understand we all hurt in different ways, however, Justin is now married. It seems as if he has been nothing but supportive of Selena’s journey. Whether that be as an artist or her immense health issues. While she has since deleted all of the nasty comments and tweets, for a while she was on a Hailey rampage. I get it. They got married after a year, a little crazy. However, no longer your battle to fight. I am also positive Justin does not think it’s quirky to see you posting petty captions on social media, the day of his wedding. Move on.

My other issue. Her new music. Now this is really going to stir the pot, I am sure. My issue is not necessarily the context of her latest singles, because I think they are actually rather beautiful. A woman healing through her music is a powerful thing to watch. Her album context however, terrifies me. It is one thing to make a hit single or two about your breakup, and what you endured. However, a whole album? Selena. Please. I know for a FACT that more exciting things have happened in your life in the last 2 years. I know you have had exciting one night stands, random girls nights out, and just overall better times. But no. You’re choosing to release an album that is basically your emotional “diary.” Whatever that means. I personally just do not think it is a good look. To capitalize off of this breakup that happened so long ago. I mean, I am sure I am not the only one who is sick of hearing it?

What I want for Selena is to stop releasing the sad breakup hits. One or two, go for it. A whole album? Save it. I personally want to hear her positivity! You know what hurts the most? A bad bitch anthem. I mean, Dua Lipa just released “Don’t Start Now.” Basically a song telling her ex to kick rocks. I want that from Selena. I know she has it in her. In previous years when they broke up she was releasing bangers. Pretending she didn’t care what he was up to at all. The world needs that. She needs that. He also needs that. I am sure Hailey hurts for you too. No woman wants to see another woman suffer. However, she also doesn’t want to feel guilty for what happened in your long time ago relationship either.

So Selena, sweetie, please do better. For yourself and for all of us as well. I know you have it in you, and your fans will always support you through anything. It is time to let this relationship rest though. It’s been almost 2 years. You’re hot, and any guy would probably be dying to marry you. Justin is taken. Let’s get those baddie anthems firing girl because honestly, I am sick of it. Like the famous vine says, “If he doesn’t treat you right, you’re gone.” “I’m gone.” BOY BYE.

2019 THROUGH MUSIC

It’s the best time of the year…well, for me that is. However, according to social media memes, it is a nightmare for everyone else. Yes, I am talking about this year’s Spotify Wrapped. For some reason, between 2018-2019, it felt as if Spotify’s users had grown exponentially. I mean, EVERYONE was posting about their year in music. I loved it. I think it is so interesting to see what everyone in my life had been blasting for the year. It’s totally invasive. I mean, c’mon, music is basically the gateway to people’s emotions.

So, let’s talk about what my year was like, according to my Spotify. However, I cannot go any further without throwing a little diss to Apple Music. This was the first year I saw people posting that platform’s year review. I must say, like I always do, it looked like trash. Spotify is out here giving everyone a little light show and interactive experience, where Apple is just giving you a bland black and white list. No fun.

ANYWAYS, now I am ready to talk about my year. Every Spotify Wrapped each year is different. This year, they started by taking you through the seasons. The Winter was about as cold as my heart. I was navigating my way through the grieving process still, so I found solace in Ariana Grande. Of course, darkness always has light, so there was some Loud Luxury to spice things up. Spring still had a dash of Ari, but it was Coachella season. Thus, I found myself blasting my new found love Gryffin, as well as throwing in Dillon Francis. Summer was honestly iconic. We have Dillon, we have Gryffin, we have Hayden James, and we of COURSE have Call Her Daddy. I’ll talk about why Summer was so iconic later. The Fall was just about the same, however I rudely phased out Hayden James for a brief period. I mean, I was just non-stop with Gryffin. Thanks Alana for that one. If they were to include this Winter, I am positive it would be The Weeknd’s new singles, back to back.

Then, Spotify gives you a little party to announce your #1 Artist. Mine comes as no surprise, Dillon Francis. I mean, I have always loved him, but 2019 was another level. It obviously was due to the fact that I was going to see him almost every other month. ALMOST. They then go to show you what your top songs of the year were, and put them into a playlist because they’re just TOO sweet. Mine was, “Love No More,” by Loud Luxury. If you’ve heard this song, you just know the vibe. I will say, I was a little surprised by this. I knew I listened a lot, for personal reasons, but not this much. I will say, my favorite part is looking at how many minutes I’ve spent listening to music. It’s never as much as I expect. Another cool thing about this is, since the year is not entirely over, the minutes are still going up every time I login. As of today, December 15, 2019, I have listened to 41,073 minutes of music. I wouldn’t trade those for the world! Spotify wraps up the presentation by giving you the artist you streamed the most this whole decade. I am absolutely sure nobody is surprised to hear that mine was, The Weeknd.

So, let’s talk about why I love this little magic Spotify makes every year. I find that every year it shows me what I really went through. This year, giving me a gist of each season was super special too. Like I said, the beginning of the year I was really grieving. So, it was really powerful to see how I started to pull myself to a more positive mindset, through my music choices. Summer was especially special to me because of my playlist, TEA. I’ve talked about it in previous blog posts, so I won’t beat a dead horse. The nostalgia hearing the first couple of songs from that specific playlist on my wrapped however, was unmatched. They spend this whole build up teasing what you listened to every season, but everyone is always waiting for the final product of their top 5 songs. “Ocean Drive,” has been on my lineup every year since 2015. It never gets old seeing it, or hearing it for that matter. It was cool seeing my top songs of the whole entire decade on a playlist this year as well. “Love No More,” actually made it to my decade lineup. If that puts into perspective how many times I was relentlessly hitting repeat. I always make jokes to one of the artists in Loud Luxury about that song in particular. I constantly will tell him I am blasting it to get over whatever boy I am into during that time. Only to turn around and message him that I took ten steps back. It’s quite comical. Did not work to help me with my boy issues, but did work to help me have a party in my head.

Around this time of year, I always make predictions as to what next year will hold for me. Right now, all I can say confidently, is that “Ocean Drive” will still make the cut. However, for the rest, I can’t be too certain. So many artists are releasing new music, I have no idea what will be my favorite anthem in a month. Probably The Weeknd, but again, I never even have to clarify the obvious.

Whether you had your Spotify Wrapped, or your Apple Music yearly review, I hope it brought you as much joy as it brought me. If it didn’t, maybe take a second to analyze what you went through in 2019. Then take a step back and realize where you are now. Does your music reflect that? If so, stop to think about why. Like I said, music is the gateway to our emotions, whether we are conscious of it at the time or not. So, sit back, reflect, and enjoy the music. Can’t wait to see what 2020 holds for all of us in this new decade!

I WANT MY (LATE NIGHT) MTV

Do you ever…feel like a plastic bag? Kidding, but do you see where I am going? No? Well buckle up, we’re taking a trip down memory lane. Have you ever watched a music video and immediately gotten blasted to the past? To the good old days of sitting on the couch watching MTV Music Videos. Now, unlike HBO, late nights on MTV were not a terrifying place. You could wake up with the TV on at 1am and not feel extremely uncomfortable, ya know?

You’re probably wondering why I am reminiscing on all the poorly made music videos of my middle/high school days. The other day, I was listening to my songs on shuffle, which is rare for me now. “The Less I Know The Better,” by Tame Impala came on. It dawned on me that I can never hear that song the same, because of the music video. Which reminded me of all the music videos of the past, that had the same effect on my youthful brain. I won’t get into too much detail of what this video entails, I will link it below as a reference. However, it got me thinking, what were the best music videos from the MTV Late Night era?? So, I figured, I would go on the hunt. I AM DOING RESEARCH FOR THIS ONE. I know, please send your condolences, this is SUCH a hard self-project.

2010:

First, I had to put myself in the same mindset of my 14 year old self. My idol at the time was Ke$ha. It’s fine, you can laugh. You can even chuckle at the fact that I was her on Halloween, with a bottle of Apple Juice, as my version of Jack Daniels. When looking at music videos from 2010, I am BLASTED to the past. It’s the end of Freshman year of high school, I would assume. It is clear from all these music videos, that artists were just as confused about their identity, as I was. I mean, c’mon, look at the pictures and videos of Lady Gaga in that time. Mind Blowing. Enrique Iglesias was rocking the charts AND our lame school dances. Let’s not forget the song, “Bedrock,” that we absolutely should not have been singing at our age. Would I say this specific year of music helped me find myself? Probably not. Did it encourage my friends and I to start drinking early? Probably. I think my favorite video in this lineup would have to be “Telephone,” by Lady Gaga and Beyonce. That song always had me in my feels. Which is strange, because I can assure you NO men wanted me at the time. So literally nobody was bothering me while I was at the non-existent club with my friends.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBE370CFB415B28A9

2011:

Oh, but what a difference just a YEAR makes. Let’s jump to the next year. WE GOT ADELE BABY! The world’s favorite sad bitch has ARRIVED. In time for all of us to really start getting in our feelings about men. Can I even call them men? We were 15. However, while Adele is making us cry about toxic boys in our lives, here comes Bruno Mars to lift us up. His big hit in 2011 was, “Just The Way You Are.” I am so glad he could make us feel loved, mid-puberty. This is the year of Katy Perry and Rihanna, apparently. They are dominating the Billboard Hot 100 this year. Go Women!! I genuinely don’t even know if I have the right words to say about this era. Honestly, watching the music videos right now, I can’t help but think about how all these are BANGERS. I mean, Justin Bieber hit us with “Baby.” An ICONIC song that still dominates our hearts today. Taylor Swift is serving us her old country-esque bops and Selena Gomez is in her honeymoon phase with Justin. All is seemingly right in the world. My favorite from this playlist, just for tribute reasons, has to go to Avicii. This was the year that “Levels” was really taking off. While I don’t entirely LOVE the concept of the video, I can appreciate the weirdness it conveys. I mean, the song doesn’t have any lyrics, so the video had to make up for it. I can always appreciate Avicii’s vision, and I wish he were still around to show us what more he had for 2020.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgDP5UKLWaCBsspi1z9GNJfys2C5wXsV5

2013:

Jumping a couple years, it’s now 2013. We’re graduating high school and going to the prime time baby. COLLEGE. Now, I am not really sure when MTV decided they no longer wanted to show music videos late at night anymore. Unfortunately, entering college, it was no longer my priority. Neither was sleeping though, don’t worry. According to Youtube, 2013 was still showing the year’s top hits on MTV. Looking at this lineup, I am honestly in awe. I mean, how could we ever forget, “Gangnam Style”? However, how could we ever let that become a top 100 hit, no offense PSY. Also, we ALL remember crying for no reason to Swedish House Mafia’s, “Don’t You Worry Child.” Maybe our tears were foreshadowing, to their breakup. A song that has stuck with me even to this day, against my will, is: “Somebody I Used To Know” by Gotye. One of my best friends from college, loved this song. Just when you were starting to finally forget about this one hit wonder, she plays it on her shower speakers. It would be WRONG of me not to mention the group who is absolutely slandering the charts in these years. One Direction. From 2012 to their breakup, they were always on the top 100. What a time to be alive.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgDP5UKLWaCA_cJeIJBcVLbLFid49AMQh
NOW:

While there have been plenty more amazing music videos, MTV one day woke up and decided to stop playing them. They might as well change their name to RTV, Reality TV. That’s all it is at this point anyways! Now, you’re probably wondering how Tame Impala started this wave of nostalgia. When clicking these throwback links, you’ll see that a lot of these music videos are completely obscure. You have no idea where it is going, and you honestly have no idea where it has been either. After taking a trip down memory lane, I encourage you to watch this more current video. The song is stunning, the music video is confusing. Let me know if you can listen to it the same after watching.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBzrzS1Ag_g