NEW MUSIC WEEKLY

Hi everyone! So, as we all know, I am an AVID Spotify user. However, I know a lot of my lovely humans out there love Apple Music. Some would even say Soundcloud is their favorite. With that being said, I am putting a link to my new music playlist here, officially. That way, if you do not have Spotify, and are unwilling to make the change for me, you can still enjoy each week’s new tunes! Here, the playlist will change every week, when I upload it. You can preview each song without downloading Spotify, and you get the full track name! That way you can take it to your respectable platform and enjoy on your own.

See you all here each week!

MAGIC IS REAL

The time has finally come. I have been waiting for an excuse to write about Dillon Francis for months now. However, I just couldn’t pick the right event to showcase. We all know I frequent Encore Beach Club, so that wouldn’t be anything new or exciting. Now, this is my time to shine.

A couple days ago (November 12), Dillon Francis posted that he was having an album release party. FOR FREE. Yep, you read that right. FREE. A broke gal, such as myself, could only DREAM of something like this. I sent the photo to a couple of my guy friends, who I knew were dying to see Dillon. While at first we were all on the fence, we decided to go last minute anyways. My main concern was that we were not going to get in. The venue was extremely small, and Dillon is an extremely large artist. Again, playing for free. We get there early, and to my surprise we actually are not that far back in line. The only thing putting a pause on my extreme excitement, was my full bladder and no porta potty in sight. The disrespect. 

After waiting in line for two and a half hours, we rush in. While the boys head to the bar, I am running to every door trying to find a bathroom (LOL). That’s just the reality of concerts, they look so glam on Instagram, when really there is some sort of struggle involved. The venue itself was actually very tiny. I know I previously said that, but the pictures did not do it justice. Besides Coachella, I am a spoiled brat, used to seeing Dillon in intimate settings. However, this looked like an actual party, which gave it a more exclusive feel. My friends, being the giants they are, walk up to the front and naturally have a perfect view. For me, I have to fight just to have one eye see over someone’s shoulder. Totally not complaining or anything. 

About an hour later, Dillon comes out to announce his first guest. His bestfriends, Phantoms, were going to open for him. For some reason, I was under the impression that these artists had a very different sound. When they came on, it was the perfect blend of house music to get everyone warmed up. Like I said though, there is always a STRUGGLE at concerts. This one came pretty quick, which meant we could enjoy the night fully thereafter. There always have to be people who go to the bathroom, and get upset when they are not welcomed back in their original spot. So, instead of politely saying she had been standing there previously, her natural instinct was to violently shove everyone around her. While this is extremely uncomfortable for every person below 5’5 to experience, I was lucky to have three personal bodyguards with me. Of course, in my mind, I am always experiencing secondhand embarrassment for these girls. You are standing in the front row, being disrespectful to people around you, in front of influential music artists and their well-known friends. Not a good look, sweetie. 

Once people were done pushing and shoving, Dillon came on. At this point, I’m hyped. As someone who stands uncomfortably at concerts because of my height, I am winning today. While people argue and shove each other, I am basking in the fact that I am getting pushed closer to the front. Until eventually, I am against the barricade. For me, this is the safest spot I can be in. Oblivious to the mosh pits and arguments happening anywhere else inside the venue. I would like to make note however, this is not all glamorous. This private release party took place in a tiny warehouse. No windows, no ventilation. So, my natural deodorant and I are struggling. However, literally every other person in the building smelled like shit. Making me, unbothered. Dillon’s performance was amazing, what more could I say. If you know me, you know he is my favorite EDM artist at the moment. Who would have thought? I used to turn my nose at the thought of ever going to a little mini warehouse rave. Now, here I am, front row screaming lyrics. His other special guests included: Valentino Khan, Ship Wrek, and Alison Wonderland. I knew my girl was going to come through, she couldn’t miss it. Plus, she has her own warehouse series happening this weekend, so I had hopes. The energy they put into their little mini appearances with Dillon, made the night even more electric. Again, this was a FREE concert. All these prominent DJs were performing as if it were Weekend One of Coachella. 

As the night started to fade out, so did my knee caps. I slowly walked myself to the back, where I chugged as many cups of free water as I could. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough. On the way home I had a typical case of a horrible migraine. Was it worth it? Absolutely. I would redo it every night if I could. The best part about these kinds of things, is the spontaneity. I love being able to just throw my fanny pack on, and get in an uber last minute. It also reminds me of why I am doing the things I currently am. Like writing this blog post, or not having a job to chase my dreams. These little concerts come at the perfect time, to motivate me when I am unable to find it in myself. It sounds so cheesy, but sometimes it can be hard to see the end goal. Or, how to get there. So, thanks Dilly, for once again sparking the flames. 

Also, this would TOTALLY not be a Julianna post, if I didn’t include terrible videos of me singing, awful sound quality from my iphone 6, AND a link to listen to the Magic Is Real full album. 

Until next time, laterssssssss. (But keep scrolling for magic…)

 

 

Just by FAR, my worst singing/screaming to date.

 

 

That IPhone 6 sound quality though!!

 

 

Name a more iconic duo, I’ll wait.

ZOHARA: The Interview

Let’s take a little trip down memory lane, shall we? It’s April in the Coachella Valley. I am laying by the pool preparing for Day 2, Weekend 1. My friend, Alana, is extremely excited to see Gryffin tonight. At the time, I thought I had no idea who that was. She refreshes my memory by playing, “Tie Me Down”. A song that is popular in every Spotify playlist at the time. Her energy is contagious, and I am excited to go discover a new (to me) artist. What ensued that night, I was never expecting. To say I left Coachella in love with Gryffin’s sound, is an understatement. 

While driving home at 5am, post festival depression kicking in, I was desperately trying to remember the song that resonated with me the most. And then, it came on shuffle. “Remember” by Gryffin featuring ZOHARA. I honestly have no idea why this song hit me right in my little feelies. I had no boy drama at the time, so I was existing peacefully. Maybe it was the voice that resonated with me the most. ZOHARA is a voice to be reckoned with. I am honestly shocked nobody has picked up on her sooner. However, getting her break with Gryffin is a magical start, to say the least. Her debut song, “Remember,” is a love song with an amazing tune. The lyrics tell a story of possible love fading, or maybe just two people trying to hold on. Whatever your interpretation, it’s hard not to dance to this tune. Now after listening to this bop, if you realize you just can’t get enough, you’re in luck! Gryffin debuted his album, Gravity, in which ZOHARA gave us another bop. This time with a more mellow tune. “Out Of My Mind,” goes into what we all experience when we’re super into someone. You literally can’t get them out of your mind, so you go crazy. Whether you’re thinking about their toxicity, or how amazing they are, it wont leave your head. This song taps into that emotion we are all too familiar with. 

Now, while I could go on forever about how amazing her voice is, as well as these two songs, I thought I would bring you a new take. For once, instead of me rambling, I present you the artist herself. With ZOHARA emerging, we all have so many questions for her. So, I thought I would jump the gun and get her take on some of my pressing ideas. 

So, without any more rambling, I give you: ZOHARA, The Interview.

 

When your song “Remember” fell into the hands of Gryffin, what was your initial reaction?

I was ecstatic! I knew the song was special when I wrote it three years ago and had no doubt it was going to be picked up, it was just a matter of when! Gryffin took the song to it’s next level and I’m super grateful to him!

 

I know you have a new song coming out soon with Gryffin as well titled ‘Out of My Mind,’ would you say the sounds are comparable to ‘Remember’? Or a completely new vibe?

I think both Remember and OOMM share many things in common – they’re both so relatable and tell such raw stories, yet they give the listener a totally different feeling. OOMM is the type of song I would listen to in the car on my way back from the beach while Remember will forever be my go to party song. I’m so grateful to have two songs on the album that showcase different aspects of my writing and my voice. 

 

What was your first impression of LA when you moved? The East Coast vs. West Coast debate is large, so I would love to know what you think, considering you have now lived on both sides! 

I have a lot to say about this so I’ll try to keep it short! Everyone who knows me well knows that I prefer NY over LA anyday. I was raised in NY and my entire family is still out there which makes LA a bit harder for me (I’m very close with my family, so I don’t like to be away from them for too long). I usually go back to NY every 2 months to refresh my mind. Reboot! I feel more inspired in NY – I love the subway because I get all my ideas there. While in LA, everyday starts to feel the same after a while and I start to miss home. BUT I have to say, the opportunities here in LA are unparalleled – which is something I am grateful for about LA…and grateful for the LA sunsets. I love the beauty of NY, it keeps me alive! I always tell people that I love NY so much because I feel like I’m part of this huge machine that never sleeps – I feel like I’m part of something and like I’m never alone because I have that commonality with everyone else walking on the street. NY makes me feel fearless. My dream is to make it big so I can move back to NY and split my time between there and LA 🙂 

 

What has been your favorite venue or festival to play at so far, and why?

I would say Coachella was my favorite festival by far! It will always be special to me because it was a day of many firsts! It was my first time performing in front of an audience (unless you count my high school theatre days haha) and my first ever coachella! It was the most surreal weekend of my life. It’s a crazy story actually! I was only supposed to perform weekend 2 but when I went to the souncheck here in LA right before weekend 1 to prep for weekend 2, I met Gryffin for the first time and he heard me sing and told me “pack your bags, you need to perform with us tomorrow in palm springs. It’s going to be live streamed and it wouldn’t be the same without you. You got some pipes on you! You can really sing!” A few hours later I was on a bus with his entire crew to palm springs…I crashed at a friends house that was rented and then 24 hours later performed for the first time in front of 60,000 people. None of my family or friends came because of how last minute it was but I am so proud of myself because I was able to do it on my own. It is a huge accomplishment for me 🙂

 

What do you think you would be doing right now, if you weren’t all over performing with Gryffin?

Very good question! I have no clue haha I see myself focusing on my own music and my own artistry. Really going in 100% on who I am and showcasing that in my music. 

 

On Instagram, you’re like a fashion icon! Where do you get inspo for your style?

Thank you! I’ve always loved fashion and am a huge believer in feeling good & special in what you wear and owning it! Having grown up in NY I got a lot of my inspiration from just seeing people walking down the street in their crazy outfits. I also get a lot of my inspo from Elsa Hosk & Emily Ratajkowski! Obsessed with them.
Lastly, can we be looking forward to a debut album sometime in the near future?

Yes!!! One of my main goals right now is to create music that gets me excited. It’s easy to write songs that are for other people (which I’ve been doing since I’ve lived here in LA for the past three years) but it’s a totally different ball game when its your feelings and your heart on the table. I want to show everyone the raw, vulnerable yet strong person I am through my music. I can’t wait to get creative and share it with the world.

YG Lyrics That Speak To Me

Honestly, this post is going to be one wild ride. It’s going to be just as entertaining to make as it is to read…I HOPE. If you have been living under a really thick rock, YG is an artist that makes bad bitch anthems for EVERYONE. Are you shy? Listen to YG. Suddenly you’re chatty Cathy. Breakup? Listen to YG. Suddenly, you’ve never had a man/woman in your life. There is also no wrong time to listen to him. 6am? Perfect time to blast “Big Bank.” I have literally done this on a road trip and it changed everything. If I wasn’t awake before that song, the heavy bass acted as a defibrillator to my system. Recently, he released a new album, which is going to make finding “moving” lyrics way more fun. 

Let’s begin with his famous hit, “Who Do You Love.” For some reason, whenever this comes on at a bar, the room goes crazy. As if the song just came out. It’s been five years, that’s how influential this song is. My friend and I love to bring up the lyric, “Eatin’ crab out in Malibu at Nobu.” While this is kind of a cheat, because it is Drake delivering it, it still counts. For me, this lyric is super influential because while I have been to Malibu, I have never been to Nobu. I’ve heard great things though. However, my bank account is still only allowing me to eat fake crab at Trader Joes. So, I just like to listen and daydream about what my life would be like if I decided to save money. Moving on. The next song has a lot of influential lyrics to me. It inspires me in ways you would never believe. “Big Bank.” Already judging by the title, it is something I desire, that I do not have. Right now the lyric that is most impactful to me is, “Big bank, take lil bank.” My bank right now is as little as ever. Seeing that I left my job to mentally make myself happier, there is no big bank. If the song said big bank, take non-existent bank; it would be almost exactly like my life. The song is obviously about making SO much money, that you have to brag about it. What I’ve taken from the song, is to just pretend. The way I am living my life, people must think I have the biggest bank ever. However, Capital One likes to remind me at least once a month, that I don’t have shit. 

We can’t talk about influential YG lyrics without tapping into his most recent album. Almost every single song has an iconic collab. We obviously have to start with his song with G-Eazy. “Do Not Disturb,” is an influential track about really annoying hoes. I mean, c’mon, we’ve all had to deal with them amirite. I think my favorite line would have to be when G-Eazy says, “Bitch you’re doing too much, please stop yourself.” I felt personally victimized when he said that. Like am I doing too much partying? Too much spending money? Too much festival partying? I couldn’t even pick. However, when Gerald tells you to do something, you do it. No questions asked. 

While I could go on for a whole three pages about YG lyrics that I love screaming out of my car window, this post is long overdue. By that, I mean I initially wrote it in JUNE. So, the comedic relief cannot be tapped back into. However, I did want to share it with the world, in hopes of inspiring people with YG’s motivational hymns. Maybe, you too, will find the YG lyric that takes your life to the next level.

 

Life Is Still Beautiful

HELLERRRRRR. Yeah, maybe Life is Beautiful did happen 3 weeks ago, but I have finally recovered from the loss I felt of it being over. While people had many mixed reviews of the festival this year, I thought it was as beautiful as ever. Let me tell you why.

Let’s start with my journey to Vegas. We had a little rocky start arriving, but it quickly turned over for the better. While getting to the city was extremely breezy, I experienced a little shake up at the grocery store. Of course, right? Something weird has happened to me at every festival. So, I am about to be in the heart of Vegas, when I decide to go to the store just outside of the city. We are obviously on a mission to capture some White Claws. And bagels…always bagels. So, I am picking up my case of Claws. I set my phone down maybe a foot away from me. I turned around to put the Claws in my cart and when I looked back, my phone was gone. Me being me, I assumed I put it back in my backpack for safe keeping. As I start to walk away, I realize that is not the case. Who jacked my broken Iphone 6? And how? I was standing right there, not another soul in sight. I power walk to the front, and ask the woman about a lost phone. As I am speaking to her, the cashier tells me that the phone has just been turned in. Weird, right? It felt like the universe was playing a prank on me. Since I had gone on the outskirts of the town to the store, I would have had no idea how to get to my friends apartment. Let alone, I would not have a phone for the entire weekend! Any other time, this would not be an issue, but at a festival?? Not going to happen. However, I was extremely lucky to get my belongings back. Upon checking out, I proceeded to race to the comfort of Emily’s apartment and start getting ready.

It’s day one! Not to mention, Alana and I’s one year anniversary. Such a special moment, realizing you met one of your amazing friends at an amazing festival. Iconic, one would say. Obviously this is Alana’s night. Gryffin is playing and Alana is his #1 supporter and promoter. I had no idea who he was before she came into my life. I am hyped to finally get a chance to wear my hair in space buns, like I had been practicing for weeks. We walk into the festival, and there it is, that feeling you get when you’re finally where you need to be. As some people may know, I quit my job right before the festival. My whole plan was to leave after, but it just felt right to end my journey with live music. I had been feeling overwhelmed, but all of that immediately went away. We had about an hour until our first set, ARIZONA, and I was excited to get a Vodka Redbull. Would you think any less of me? Unfortunately, I was hoping for a cute souvenir cup, but this year that concept didn’t exist. Like all years, we just HAD to sneak each other into VIP for a little bit. Let’s just be real, the porta potties are nicer, and the grass is greener. So, we spent ARIZONA’s set in VIP, vibing with my Vodka Redbull. My favorite part of this entire set wasn’t even the songs. This is absolutely no shade to ARIZONA, they were phenomenal. However, at one point, the lead singer gave a mini speech. He said something along the lines of: if you aren’t where you need to be, with the people you want to be with, you have the power to change that. And while a little lump in my throat formed, Alana put her hand on my shoulder from behind me. In that moment, I really had no doubts about any of my prior decisions. I was going to be okay, actually I was going to be FANTASTIC. 

After the set, we decide to head over to our favorite tent, and watch everyone before Gryffin. An act that caught me off guard, for the better, was Jonas Blue. I had always walked to class in college to his song, “Fast Car.” So naturally, I assumed the set would be more mellow. I was wrong. However, it was the perfect pregame to Gryffin. Of course, I just HAD to scream my heart out to the song, “Remember.” For those of you who don’t remember (lol), Coachella was the first time I saw Gryffin. On my drive home, I knew there was a song I loved, but I just couldn’t think of the name. Upon shuffling his music, I realized this was the one. So, since Coachella, I had been listening to “Remember” almost everyday. On repeat. After screaming my lungs out, and dancing like a maniac, it was time to close the night. We finished with Louis the Child. Who was obviously amazing. We decided, with a long weekend ahead of us, we needed to go home early tonight. Of course, not without a little pit stop to McDonalds. 

It is day TWO baby. I wake up a dusty, crusty mess, while Emily gets her booty up to go to SoulCycle. What a goddess. I went right back to bed. Let’s just say this day was the best for so many reasons. The first being, it was unofficial cheetah print night on the grounds. When we walked in, almost every person we encountered was in cheetah, including me. How did I get the telepathic memo?? We decided to walk around a little bit and check out the art. My favorite part about this year, were the notes to strangers posted all over. I think the movement has been in museums for a while, but for some reason, seeing them in person was super impactful. It was like all the notes posted, were meant for me to see. It was giving me a little extra pep in my step. However, here is where the REAL pep comes in. I had originally planned my trip to stay longer to see Loud Luxury at the clurb (not a typo). However, my friend’s hookup was no longer in Vegas, leading to a dead end for us. I was super bummed, just trying to play it cool. My friends get a text in the venue, Loud Luxury is playing the Bacardi Art Motel in 30 mins. I SCREAMED. We had to go. It was obviously a pop up, Bacardi Art Motel is teeny tiny. So we get there, and I cut the line. I cut about 70 people, absolutely no shame. In my mind, those people probably did not get the text, they were just waiting to go in and get their aesthetic photos. Not today! I still do not feel one ounce of guilt. While I was most excited for Jauz that day, the vibe completely changed. The song “Love No More,” is the bad bitch anthem I am always talking about. I am in love. So, obviously, the secret set was everything I ever dreamed. 

After Loud Luxury, we attempted to find our friends and go to Jauz. Unfortunately, one of our buddies was extremely excited to see Lil Wayne, who came on stage for one lyric, and then cancelled his set. So, with her night being essentially ruined, she decided to return home. We go to Jauz and make some really cool new friends, who later we go to the next set with. However, we don’t stay long before we decide it is time to hit the after party. Where do we go? Well OBVIOUSLY, Encore Beach Club. RL Grime was playing the after party, and I was not going to miss it. Let’s just say, he’s my new Beach Club crush. 

It’s day three. Emily still finds it in her soul to get up and workout, while I go right back to bed. It always sinks in on the third day, that it is ending. While I don’t intend for these sad thoughts to creep in, they always do. I just want it to last forever, ya know? So, I put on my favorite festival bodysuit, and we mob over for the last day. Of course, upon arrival, all sad feelings dissipate. Nothing extremely exciting happens, but we do get to end the night with Oliver Heldens, NERVO, and last, but certainly not least, POST MALONE. Can I just say, going into the night, I genuinely was under the impression that Post Malone heavily used autotune, even live. However, I was extremely surprised to find out that he is an AMAZING performer. He managed to put everyone in their feelings, but also hype them up simultaneously. The performance was so good, I have even considered seeing him on tour. 

I know I no longer have any wild fables to tell, like my first Coachella post on here. However, I think people enjoy reading about how festivals can actually be a fairytale, as opposed to a nightmare. I will say though, as you grow up, the festival disasters may lessen, but the party STILL is crazy. I mean, c’mon, not everyone can dance for 12 miles a day. This festival never fails to remind me that no matter how tough my life gets, or how overwhelmed I may be, life is still beautiful.

 

Praise Our Founding Fathers

Well this is definitely some new territory as far as topics go for me. PODCASTS. They have been around forever, but for some reason, everyone is just now hopping on the bandwagon. I remember the first podcast I ever truly enjoyed, Serial. I am a big murder mystery fan, but that’s a topic for another time. Personally, I never found myself in a position where I would want to sit down and listen to another person talk. Unless I was having a face to face conversation. Books on tape were never up my alley. However, one day, everything changed. 

My friend sent me a text saying something along the lines of, “Have you listened to Call Her Daddy?” Initially, I thought this was going to be a new song that had just been released. However, she informed me that if I like anything to do with Barstool Sports, then I would love this. Obviously, I had to do my research. Now, any NORMAL person would think to start a podcast from the beginning. I later learned that the Daddy Girls strongly advise this concept. However, my initial research began with watching their vlogs on Youtube to get a feel for who they are. For me, I would like to see who exactly is giving me all this raunchy advice. 

Now yes, let me preface this whole post by saying, Call Her Daddy is not for the weak of heart. It may not even be for anyone reading this who is over the age of 40. Let me tell you why. It is RAUNCHY and RELATABLE. Which for most adults, is horrifying. Especially for parents. I can’t imagine any parent sitting down to listen to this podcast and thinking, “Groovy”. However, it is 2019, and young adults are being young, wild, and free. Most of the premise of these podcast episodes, deal with the trial and error of dating. Just when you think you’ve met the one, something isn’t right. These girls also give real and raw (no pun intended) sex advice. Now for some people, this is where their opinions on the podcast waiver. Maybe you aren’t a hoe, so to hear some of these stories is scarier than Halloween Horror Nights at Universal. However, maybe you are, and you’re looking for something to spice it up. These girls do it all. 

Let me give you an example. Tragically, most of us reading this, like men. It’s more often than not, tragic. However, like the saying goes, you truly cannot live without them. In a more recent episode, Alex invites her male friend to come on the podcast. Now you’re thinking, cool, time for some useful advice from the man’s perspective. Judging by his name, Milf Hunter, you can only assume it isn’t going to be romantic. While I am sitting in my car listening, I am mistakenly waiting to hear advice from a guy on how girls SHOULD act. Instead, I am listening to a normal guy talk about all the savage things he has done in the past, and how he doesn’t plan on settling down anytime soon. If that doesn’t confirm my point that men are TRASH, I don’t know what will. I’m kidding. I actually found the episode super amusing and maybe a TAD insightful. I mean, who am I to kid, I have the worst taste in men. So, he seems right up my alley. I actually, in turn, learned a couple tips and tricks on how to play a player. NO MAN IS SAFE FROM ME NOW. I say as I am literally typing this alone in bed with my cat. 

My favorite portion of the podcast however, is when youngins like myself, get to submit questions. At the end of the episode, Alex and Sofia pick which questions may be the most relevant and useful. Most of the time it’s about a cheating spouse, or sometimes it is just a crazy story about college. While I am no longer at the age where I have to worry about boys at frat parties, I still love to hear the advice. It makes me wish I had these girls in college, would that have changed anything? Probably not. Would I have steered clear of the frat stars? Most definitely. It was just recently that I found myself writing in to these girls for advice. On what, I won’t disclose just yet. However, whether I get chosen or not, there was some comfort in thinking they might see it. It almost feels…fatherly. Maybe they are the daddy’s of the internet. 

While I would LOVE to tell each and every one of you to go listen to this podcast, I feel as if I should disclose a warning. This podcast is EXTREMELY inappropriate. Mom and Dad, close your ears and stay away okay? But, while it is raunchy, do not go judging your friends for being die hard fans. In all reality, this podcast is what girls talk about at slumber parties with their friends. If you are a guy reading this and have listened to the podcast, yes it is true, we are talking shit about you behind your back. Lastly, to the men. If you use your little Airpods and decide to listen, kudos to you. HOWEVER, this is not a reflection of any of your female friends’ endeavors, okay? There is no slut shaming in this house. These stories are obviously not ours, and that’s why they’re hilarious to listen to. 

With that being said, if you are not scared away yet, listen to the podcast. Maybe it’ll spark some memories from your wild past. Or, maybe it’ll just make you grateful for your easy, breezy, beautiful dating life. Either way, Call Her Daddy, has a little something for everyone.

 

Hot Girl Summer Recap

Well, here we are. Hot Girl Summer has officially ended. While we leave our sexy energy at the beach, it’s time to gear up for Thotumn. Now, before you ask, yes I DID get all these terms from the internet. Sue me. 

When moving into a new season, it’s good to reflect and carry on some of the summer energy. Seasonal depression is a very real thing. With school starting and work slowing down, things can get a little sad. Let’s not even get started on the universal feeling we all get when the sun starts to go down earlier. I AM NOT READY. However, I am ready to continue on blasting music from every speaker I can possibly get my hands on. So, let’s talk about our summer. How was yours? When I think about mine, the lines are pretty blurred on where I believe my season to have started. Apparently, to me, my summer began with Coachella. For those of you who are sheltered, this festival happened in the Spring. My internal timeline is extremely confused. 

Really though, I would say my summer REALLY started at my friend’s dirty 30 birthday party. It was BASICALLY Coachella, considering we spent a few days in Palm Springs. While we were there one afternoon, I got my hands on the big speaker we had outside. Everyone was relaxing by the pool, enjoying a nice little beverage. I decided to play my music, and set up a little queue of what I have been listening to recently. Little did I know, this was going to be the highlight of my summer. Now, my friends know how much I pride myself on my music taste. So, I feel like they like to tread lightly when it comes to complimenting my playlists, or telling me how much they like a song being played. I don’t blame them, I think about every music compliment for days, and my ego is extremely large the entire time. You would think I am walking around acting like the world’s most renowned DJ. However, in my head, that is exactly what is going on. 

This brings me to my epitome of summer, TEA. So, while at the pool, a couple of my friends were digging the tunes I was throwing out. Asking me what playlist it’s on, where I found these songs, etc. When I said I was just playing from my liked songs, they were frantic. The lost look in their eyes inspired me to create what became the best playlist of the freaking summer. I get home and my friend is on his hands and knees, BEGGING for me to make him a playlist. It was almost pathetic. You know who you are, and I am definitely kidding, I love you. Can I just say though, finding out you have similar music taste with someone can really strengthen a bond. Making this playlist and texting every time I put a new song up, was almost euphoric. Anyways, let’s get to the bottom line. This playlist is my new favorite baby. I will be completely honest though, creating it was a little nerve wracking. While I knew the main people listening already liked the songs, I was worried they wouldn’t like the new ones I was about to add. These are the little things that keep me up at night people. Ridiculous, I know. 

When I first created TEA, my initial friend it was made for didn’t have Spotify. If you know me, or even if you have just been catching up on my posts, you KNOW I am a ride or die for that app. No matter how many ads I get for a 30-day free Apple Music trial, I am a hater. However, this is going to paint a picture of how good this playlist is. My friend really went and downloaded Spotify, just to listen. While he still dabbles in his Apple Music, TEA became the star of the show. Once we started talking about it, EVERYONE wanted in on it. My friends followed the playlist, and I started promoting it. Why not toot your own horn? So, while summer is ending, here we are still blasting TEA. 

Now, I can’t say that TEA is the only summer playlist I have. I mean, it was Hot Girl Summer right? Our next star is the one and only, HGS. Reading the previous sentence, I hope you can gather what that stands for. Now, while there may be a couple overlapping songs on this one, this is the party playlist. TEA consisted of chilling by the pool vibes, as well as happy dance vibes. HGS is all about feeling your best and wanting the world to know it. I want to say it is the perfect pre-game playlist before going out, but we already have one for that. This playlist is for those days you just aren’t sure. Do you feel like a hot girl, or are you just faking it? Once this playlist comes on, you’ll figure it out. I know that explanation seems extremely vague, whereas the previous had a whole backstory. Don’t worry, there is a reason I will be linking both playlists below. 

With Hot Girl Summer ending, I realized that these playlists probably will not. HGS will change the name and TEA will stay the same. While both of these playlists represent Summer 2019 for me, I feel like they represent a lot more than that as well. Not to be TOO corny, but TEA reminds me of carefree times with better people. I’ll always be having a hot summer, so HGS doesn’t have the same heart-warming effect on me. Now that fall is right around the corner, we can reflect on our amazing summers, but also gear up for which songs we are taking with us in transition. I’m thinking, let’s all beat this end of summer sadness with some bops right? 

As ALWAYS, I am linking these playlists down below. Feel free to click them, or just listen on your Apple music, I won’t judge. Also, get ready for some super steamy content soon, I will be heading to another music festival. STAY CALM, WE ALL KNOW THE DRILL.

 

HAYDEN JAMES

This is kind of a “best of both worlds” situation for me. I have been loving Hayden James’ music for quite some time now, so I was thinking he would be a perfect edition to Ones To Watch. THEN, today, he decided to release a whole new album. Previously, he had only a few singles, some remixes, and a baby EP. So, here I am, listening for the first time and writing an AUTHENTIC review of his music. In my last album review, I had listened to it weeks prior, and based my opinion on their previous work. In this case, I only have a handful of songs, most of which are debuted on this new album as well.

So why do I think he’s an artist to watch? His music has beats that make you want to party by the pool all day, combined with lyrics that sometimes make you sit and say, “Wow. I’ve been attacked.” Which is totally a good thing. That means he is making relatable content that you can sing your heart out to, if you have any oxygen left from dancing. Let’s talk about some songs that were out in the world before this album. The reasons I became a fan, and the reasons I believe he’s going to be popping on Top 40 charts soon.

The first song I had ever heard by him was actually a remix. I heard ODESZA remix “Something About You”, which lead me to wonder who he really was. The crazy thing is, the different effect both songs have on me. When hearing the ODESZA remix, it gives me some sort of nostalgia that gives me a little lump in my throat. However, when I go and listen to the actual version of the song, it makes me feel super relaxed. The type of feeling you get when you’re just laying by the pool tanning. By now, this song is probably pretty popular, due to the fact that the remix blew it off the charts. However, if you haven’t already heard, I suggest listening to both, and deciding which one you like better! That single came out in 2015, and it looked like he had released one single per year since then, until 2018. He released a whopping TWO. However, these two are probably my favorite songs on this planet, not to be dramatic or anything. Starting with the song, “Just Friends.” This song was released toward the end of 2018, and for some reason it REALLY spoke to me. At this time, I was boy drama free and had no reason to particularly relate to it…yet. If you were to ask me if I can relate to the song now, I’d tell you to mind your business. This song is just everything. I don’t even know how to use proper terms to describe it. At the time it came out, I would play it on repeat 24/7, not listening to anything else. Now that I don’t do that anymore, whenever it comes on shuffle, it feels like a jolt of electricity. Just hearing the beginning I think, “Oh shit, here we go.” The lyrics are so self explanatory that I don’t even think it’d be necessary for me to talk further about it. JUST GO LISTEN TO IT OKAY?

Now, let’s get into the build up of the album today. Then, we’re going to tear it apart. For some reason, I like to think that 2019 just started. That’s how fast it’s blowing by. So, while I was listening to Gryffin Radio, a bomb station that curates music based off that one artist’s style, I found a new gem. It’s called “Nowhere To Go.” When I first heard it in my bathroom, I was STOKED to find out it was by Hayden James. I knew it had to be relatively new, but when? How did I miss this? Turns out, he just released it in May. I wasn’t missing out for too long. This song has been my obsession lately. It lyrically has almost a similar vibe to “Just Friends,” but a little bit different. That was his last single before today, June 14th, when he blessed my ears this morning.

He kicks off the album with a voice I recognize immediately, Boy Matthews. The beautiful voice on “Just Friends.” The awesome thing about this album is there aren’t any real slow songs to kill my vibe. Lately, I’ve been wanting something upbeat that will keep me going throughout the day, not put me to sleep. Who am I kidding, that’s ALWAYS how I’ve been. I can appreciate a good slow song from time to time, don’t get me wrong. However, it is unique to have an artist come up with all upbeat stuff, that lyrically is amazing too. The album is filled with his singles he’s released this past year, but the new songs are just as exciting. I think my favorite on this new album would have to be “Hold Me Back,” which is his album kick off. Sometimes, the first song on an album can be hit or miss.

Overall, I think Hayden James is going to be a real hit on the more dreamy side of the House Music charts. While he does have 2 million monthly listeners, I still feel like he belongs on a Ones To Watch. I just don’t hear his name as much as I should. However, not to toot my own horn, but I am usually the one who presents new names to my friends. I also don’t see him on as many release radars as he deserves. So here he is! If you haven’t heard of him, now you have. As always, I am leaving a little playlist radio down below. So, if you’re lazy, you don’t have to go far to listen to him. Or, if you don’t have Spotify, this is your chance to download. Honestly Spotify, sponsor me already. #AD

Coachella 2019 Recap

I know why some of you are here…you think I had another Coachella disaster. I’m going to be completely honest, for the sake of content creation, I wish I did! However, no. This year was perfect. Maybe that’s just a part of growing up and not being a stupid college kid anymore. Or maybe it’s the simple fact that I did not take a sip of pineapple cider. We won’t know!

This year, like all years, I decided to trek to the desert for Weekend 1. Overly excited, I packed my bags, and left right after work on Thursday night. To my disappointment, I hit traffic at 11pm on the 10 FWY going towards Indio. Sadly, the cold brew high was wearing off. By the time I got to Indio, my friends were exhausted on the couch watching Flip or Flop Vegas. Classic. I go to sleep and wake up bright and early on Friday morning, obviously excited to finally be back on my turf. While we didn’t have any artists to see until the evening, we wanted to spend the afternoon catching up by the pool. In my head, I was already planning my outfits, as if I did not spend all week sorting them out to pack. The time comes to get ready and I am FEELING the Red Bull coursing through my veins. The excitement is too real. It is at this time that I should mention how we THOUGHT we were going to get to the festival. We figured with the Uber lot probably being crazy, and the prices being a rip-off, we would just walk. To justify that, we said, “It’s only a mile.” ONLY A MILE. In the hot ass Coachella sun. In cute ass outfits. We were way too confident. So, I strap up my sandals, throw on my romper, and get ready to walk my happy ass to the festival.

About 10 minutes into the walk we realized, this just wasn’t it. This was not the life hack we had envisioned. Luckily, some guy in a van pulled up next to us and told us we looked like we needed a ride. So, we got in. For someone who watches way too many murder mysteries, I really did not hesitate at all to get in this large white air conditioned van. However, as you can assume from me sitting here writing this, I didn’t die. Once we are in the festival it is madness. The first day always seems to be the most crowded. People are getting a feel for the land, seeing what’s new, and deciding what artists to see. Although this wasn’t my first year, Coachella had changed the layout and added tons of things since I had been last. However, my big ego wasted no time taking charge when my friends suggested I lead the way. Festivals are only truly fun when the blind leads the blind. We decide to ring in our first Coachella sunset with Gorgon City. At this point, they are our first act, and I can already feel my wardrobe malfunctioning. My sandals were chafing my ankles and my romper was about to give me a little nip slip. However, with the power of my anti-chafe balm, my ankles were blister free! As the sun set fully, we decided to walk around and check out the rest of the stages. The thing about the lineup this year was that most of the acts were super spread out. There was really no sprinting from one stage to the next to see your faves. The night was going amazing until it got EXTREMELY COLD. I knew from previous years it gets chilly, to where you need a cardigan if anything. No. Not this year. This year I was shocked at how windy and cold it got. So much so that day two I purchased a sweater.

Let’s fast forward to day two. No more complaining about how cold I was.

We wake up, in a little worse shape than Friday. Exhausted, dusty, and crusty (literally). That’s what caffeine and 20 minute showers are for. My outfit today was the most simple. We really had nobody on the list that we were DYING to see, so it was going to be our day to explore all the new things. So, I just threw on a tube top, shorts, and my favorite white platform sneakers. Safe to say, these sneakers are nowhere near white anymore. Will I still wear them? Absolutely. After exploring all the boujee food, and seeing the cool little HP dome, we ended our easy day with Gryffin. Who, by the way, totally blew me away. I have been listening to him since we’ve been back. Specifically, the song, Remember. My only regret of the night, is not seeing Billie Eilish. However, her set was later in the night, and it turns out she came on late because of technical difficulties. A recurring theme that Coachella still has not been able to master.

Day Three. I am starting to realize this is IT. However, I am trying to not start the day already sad picturing the end. All my faves are today. We have Zedd, Khalid, Dillon Francis, Ariana Grande, and NGHTMRE. Unfortunately, today was probably the worst in terms of Coachella microphone malfunctions and technical issues. However, not knowing that, I slap on my forehead jewels and we hop in our van. We start off by seeing Zedd. Now this is where I am starting to get emotional. The sun is setting, and all my favorite old summer songs are playing. I am sure if you heard me singing in the back of the videos I took, you will hear my voice crack. The lump in my throat stayed the whole set. It was bittersweet. I was sad it was ending, but still so happy to be in my favorite place. Once his set ends, we decide it’s time to stock up on water, the night is just beginning. There is about an hour gap until we go see MY MAN, Dillon Francis. While I have seen him many times in the past, my love for him has grown way stronger since my last music festival. While waiting for Dillon, we decide to stop at our baby Khalid’s set. This is where the speaker malfunctions become a real bummer. His mic kept cutting out, and the speakers in the back seemed to be completely blown out. This has happened every year I’ve been to this festival, and always on the last day. So, we decide to head over to the Sahara tent early. At this point, I am getting so excited, that I can’t stop moving. My friend Emily is taking it upon herself to let everyone in our friend group know, that I am the bitch commenting on every single one of Dillon’s photos on IG. Classic. He goes on, and it’s AMAZING. I think I even said, it felt like a really cool house party that everyone’s always wanted an invite to. During this set, was when I got the most EXTREME video of my singing. Remember the one of me screaming during The Weeknd at Life Is Beautiful? This one is comparable.

After Dillon gets us hyped for the night, we decide to head over to Ariana Grande and see what’s up. To my disappointment, the speaker situation had almost gotten worse. Of course, right around the time that she brought out some of the members of NSYNC. I at least got to hear a muffled version of Break Up With Your Girlfriend, I’m Bored. So, we decide to go back to the Sahara tent one last time this year, to go see NGHTMRE. While I knew some of his stuff was super hardcore, I was really looking forward to his set. For those of you who don’t know, my friend who passed away, this was one of his favorite artists. One of my favorite songs at the moment is GUD VIBRATIONS, which I absolutely had to end the night with. He closed Coachella with music that you just couldn’t stop dancing to for an hour. Which was the perfect way for us to end our weekend. Exhausted and content.

The thing I love the most about music festivals, and going with the perfect group of people, is the dynamic. With my friends, there is never a time when we have to fight about who wants to see what artist. Which is something I hear happens a lot between friend groups at festivals. However, our music taste is so similar, nobody ever has to make a sacrifice to see another person’s favorite. This means, we all get to enjoy not only the experience, but being with each other. Sometimes people ask me why I attend festivals if I am only super stoked about a couple artists. For me, yes, it mainly is about the music. However, I have also learned that it is about the memories you make with your friends along the way. While Saturday I had nobody I wanted to see, I had the best time watching one of my friends cry seeing her favorite artist ever. Something about that makes the experience 10x better. I know there were no Coachella disasters this year, and I am sorry to disappoint anyone who was hoping I almost got heat stroke again. However, Coachella 2019 exceeded my last minute expectations.

LAST MINUTE COACHELLA PREP

After months of back and forth, I have finally decided…..to go to Coachella…again. If you have been here before, then you should know that my relationship with this festival has been interesting. From heat stroke, to campsites almost blowing up, Coachella and I are…complicated. However, I have decided after a year apart, it’s time to get back out there and see what happens.

With that being said, as I am writing this, I now have two and a half weeks to plan everything from transportation to clothing. Things that people have been planning for as long as the last year! However, I know I am not the only one. I can’t be. So, I figured I would sit down and talk about how to calmly organize yourself, with as little time as possible. For those of you who are not going to the festival, or are not concert goers in general, you may learn a tip or two on how NOT to plan trips. Or, you may just learn how to get your shit together when you decide to procrastinate planning your next trip.

The first thing I wanted to get a grip on was my finances. If you didn’t know, I am partying on the government’s money. Decided to use my trusty credit card to pay for the ticket. So, how am I going to pay this back, while also having the time of my life at the festival? I am still a little undecided about this one. While I am always in a panic about paying off my credit card in full, I have had countless people say to me, “You have TIME to pay that money back!” It’s like they don’t know telling me that will just encourage me to spend more money I don’t have. They are right though, why is that my main concern? It shouldn’t be. So for now, I would just like to give a big shoutout to whoever invented credit cards, my life would be so so boring without your help.

Next, we have to plan the outfits. For me, this part is more stressful than I would like it to be. While I would like to think being a Coachella Veteran has prepared me for packing, I am still extremely unprepared every time. This year, instead of being all flashy and pretty like the first timers, I just want to be comfy and cute. I want to look like I tried, but could also comfortably move from stage to stage. What most people don’t think about is the fact that the festival is an all day ordeal. You are out there for at least 12 hours. My biggest downfall clothing-wise, is ALWAYS the shoes. If you ever have a chance to be up close and personal with my ankles someday, take a look at the scars. My ankles look permanently bruised thanks to the constant chafing I endure at any music festival/concert. I don’t know what it is, but I just CAN’T seem to get it right. If by some miracle this year I pick the right footwear, I will let you know. As far as tops go, everyone knows I am either a crop top or bodysuit bitch. Five out of the seven days a week you can probably catch me in one or the other, rain or shine. I am not a jeans girl either, leaving me with a vast selection of shorts to bring. Now of course, with all that being said, I have been hunting for some cute new tops and outfits. I mean c’mon, the things I wear at Coachella will be recycled into my going out selection for the bars. I have to bring something fun and fresh to the table.

As far as transportation goes, I trust myself and myself only. I have made the decision to make the short two hour drive. While the way there is going to be so exciting and fun, I just know the way back is going to be hell. Will I even be able to hear the music over the sound of my own crying? Super stoked to find out. This of course means I will be making a playlist for the drive, that I will also be sharing with my friends to listen to on their drive as well. Will I leak it for the rest of you not going? If I’m feeling generous. I will definitely have it available to listen to after, for those who want to feel like they were there. Or for anyone prepping for weekend 2.

With all that being said, it hasn’t actually hit me that I am really doing the damn thing. Every other year I’ve been, it took months of preparation. I would fly from Arizona to California, and then drive to Indio with my girls. This time, I am just leaving from work like a normal person. I guess when you buy the ticket when they actually go on sale, you have months of build-up and excitement to where you just can’t stop talking about it. For me, since I got the ticket two weeks ago, I have only really been blabbing about it the past week. My poor friends and coworkers are really going to get an earful from me when the festival is over that’s for sure. Oh, and also this blog, duh. My next content is going to be filled with Coachella nonsense until the next festival. Get ready for the madness!