The Seven Song Itch - Korean Pop Groups

K-Pop, or Korean Popular Music, is a musical genre consisting of dance, electronic, electropop, hip hop, rock, and R&B music originating in South Korea.  There are definite westernized influences that permeate the music and fashion in these videos, but it’s only the starting point for these bands.  This wave of music has elements of US/UK girl and boy bands from the eighties and nineties. Even though you may not understand the words, it’s easy to connect with the imagery and melodies; these videos are eye candy for a new generation. With high production values these promotional videos span the range from surrealistic to  post-apocalyptic.  I use the English translation for these groups, though most of these bands go by multiple names and slang terms in the K-Pop Culture.    

Having a list of K-Pop groups is like trying to compile a list of American music.  There are so many groups and genres that it would be difficult to list them all—it’s like trying to slap a label on an entire nation.  There is no need for these bands to export their music out of the region, because there are millions of people in and around South Korea that sustain this multi-million dollar music industry. Just consider the amount of people in the surrounding areas of Korea, and they really don’t need American or even European Audiences, but that is no longer the case.  Though Facebook, Twitter, i-tunes, and Youtube, these bands are starting to make their presence known to the world stage.  SMEntertainment, which promotes a few of these artists, has started reaching out to US audiences by booking mega-shows in major cities.  You will see many of these artists sharing the bill as they take the world by storm. According to an article reprinted by Wikipedia [TIME Magazine: Korean Pop – Show Me the Money (dead link to article)], there is a major push to develop new girl groups/boy bands, which takes almost two years of development at a price tag that can reach upwards of $400,000.  This is similar to what Barry Gordy did with Motown back in the sixties and seventies, but with a lot more financial resources.  Regardless, South Korea means business, music business that is.

I’ve included a couple of Youtube music channels, but it only scratches the surface of this vivacious music industry.

MVKorea'sChannel

MVKorea’sPlaylist of Artists

Korean PopGroups! by Lola Valentine

All SouthKorean (K-Pop) Boy Groups/Bands (Part 1/2) by BinSensei94

All SouthKorean (K-Pop) Boy Groups/Bands (Part 2/2) by BinSensei94

KoreanPopSource

GenericSearch of Korean Pop Groups on YouTube

Playlist for Korean PopGroups.  I’ve included a few more bands in this list, but again, this is no way a comprehensive list, these are just the most popular groups.

1. F(x) – “Electric Shock”(2012)

If you like the bouncy sound of Lady GaGa’s “Telephone,” then you are really going to like this song.  The group consisting of Krystal Jung, Sulli Choi, Luna, Victoria, and Amber, developed over a six-year period from 2000-2006 and is billed as “Asia’s Pop Dance Group.”  I almost fell out of my chair when I saw a Dead Kennedy’s logo on one of the girl’s jacket within the first few minutes of the song.  Loosely translated, this song is how a girl feels about a boy—giving her an electric shock. Signed to SM Entertainment in 2009 F(x)’s name is a play on the mathematical notation for function, and when input with different 'x', there can be many different outcomes. The f stands for flower and the x represents the female's double x chromosome. f(x) strives to be the kind of girl group that can change and adapt to many situations.

2. SHINee “Sherlock (Clue + Note)”(2012)

This is the title song from their 2012 comeback album “Sherlock,” though SM Entertainment formed the band in 2008.  Is it really a comeback when it’s only been four years? The group consists of Onew, Jonghyun, Key, Minho, and Taemin and is considered to be fashion icons for having started the “Shinee Trend” and is known for their highly synchronized and complicated dancing.  They just finished up their world tour on July 1 2012, which included twenty performances in seven cities.

3. 2NE1 – “I Am The Best”(2011)

Formed by YG Entertainment in 2009, the band consists of four female members: CL, Minzy, Dara, and Bom. The name 2NE1 combines the phrases "21st century" and "new evolution", and is pronounced "twenty-one" or "to anyone."  In the summer of 2010, 2NE1 traveled to Los Angeles and London to record English songs with The Black Eyed Peas's member will.i.am. The girls are planning their American debut near the end of 2012, after The Black Eyed Peas' global tour and 2NE1's own activities in Korea and Japan.

4. BIGBANG – “Fantastic Baby”(2011)

Big Bang formed in 2006 under the management of YG Entertainment and has grown to become one of the most successful Asian acts in the world. The group consists of leader G-Dragon, T.O.P, Taeyang, Daesung, and Seungri.  They are currently embarking on their first ever World Tour visiting 25 cities in 16 countries. The band originally had an urban hip-hop sound, moved on to electronica and now have a more rock flavor, but still keeps to their roots.

5. Girls'Generation – “The Boys”(2011)

Girls’ Generation is a nine-member group, formed by S.M. Entertainment in 2007 that includes Taeyeon, Hyoyeon, Seohyun, Sooyoung, Yoona, Jessica, Tiffany, Sunny, and Yuri.  The group performed “The Boys," (which was released in three languages, Korean, Japanese, and English), on two American talk shows (Late Show with David Letterman and Live! with Kelly), in late 2011 and early 2012 respectively. This song saw a change in their image as the group began to portray a more mature image as apposed to a more innocent one.  I think they are making the transition nicely, with a little adult playfulness.

6. TVXQ! – “Before U Go”(2011)

Now, if you just heard this song on the radio you would think that they are an urban hip-hop group from America—that is, until they start singing.  TVXQ is acronym for Tong Vfang Xien Qi.   In South Korea they are known as Dong Bang Shin Ki, which is often abbreviated as DBSK, and in Japan they are known as Tohoshinki.  Their name translates to "The Rising Gods of the East."  The group debuted in 2003 as a 5-member group consisting of leader U-Know Yunho, Max Changmin, Hero Jaejoong, Micky Yoochun and Xiah Junsu. In July 2009, the latter three filed for an injunction against their Korean agency SM Entertainment, for an excessive contract period (13 years). This led to TVXQ ceasing all public activities and appearances after 2009. After a hiatus that lasted 2 years and 3 months, TVXQ returned as a duo consisting of Yunho and Changmin.  I guess even the South Korean music scene isn’t immune to music business BS.

7. WonderGirls – “Like This”(2011)

Wonder Girls is a South Korean girl group currently consisting of five members Yubin, Yeeun, Sunye, Sohee, and Hyelim. They are managed by their producer and manager singer-songwriter Park Jin-Young under his talent agency, JYP Entertainment. The group began their entry into the American market in 2009 as an opening act for The Jonas Brothers' World Tour, performing the English version of their hit single "Nobody."  The members are currently preparing for their first English debut album set to be released in the USA sometime in 2012.

Bonus Video:

Yeah I know this is an advisement, but it’s a great behind the scene with will.i.am with the group 2NE1.

List of K-Pop Groups/Artists:

1TYM, 2NE1, 2PM, 2AM, 4Minute, 5dolls, 5tion, 8Eight, AA, After School, After School BLUE: See After School, After School RED: See After School, Ailee, Alexander Lee Eusebio, Amber Liu (f(x)), A Pink, As One, B1A4, B.A.P, Baby V.O.X., Baby Vox Re.V, Bada, Bae Suzy (miss A), Bae Seul Ki, Baek Ji Young, Bang Yong Guk (B.A.P), Battle, BEAST, Big Bang, Big Mama, Big Mama King, Black Beat, Block B, BoA, Boohwal, Brian Joo, Brown Eyed Girls, Brown Eyed Soul, Bulldog Mansion, Buzz, Byul, Byun Baekhyun (EXO K), Boyfriend, Brave Girls, BtoB, C-REAL, Chae Jung Ahn, Chae Yeon, Chakra, Cherry Filter, CHI CHI, Children Of Empire, Chocolat, Choi Soo-Young (Girls' Generation), Cho Yong-pil, Clazziquai, Click-B, C.N.BLUE, CNU (B1A4), Co-Ed School, Crying Nut, CSJH, Crucial Star, Choi Minho (SHINee), Cho Kyuhyun (Super Junior), Choi Siwon (Super Junior), D.O. (EXO K), Dae Guk Nam Ah: See The Boss, Dae Sung (Big Bang), Dalmatian, Dal Shabet, Dana, Dara (2NE1), Davichi, Deux, Double A (band) see as AA, Dok2, Donghae (Super Junior), Drunken Tiger, Dynamic Duo, Enjel, Epik High, Eru, Eugene, Eunhyuk (Super Junior), Eun Ji Won, Eve, E.via, EXO, EXO-K, EXO-M, EXID, F.T. Island, Fin.K.L, Fly to the Sky, f(x), F.Cuz, Fat Cat, G.NA, g.o.d., Gang Kiz, GP Basic, Girl's Day, Girl Friends, Girls' Generation, Gummy, G-Dragon (Big Bang), Son Ga-In (Brown Eyed Girls), Ham Eun-jeong (T-ara), Han Sunhwa (SECRET), Ha Ji Won, Haha, Heechul (Super Junior), Hello Venus, Heo Ga Yoon (4Minute), Heo Young Saeng (SS501), HITT, Hong Kyung Min, H.O.T., Hyomin (T-ara), Hyun Bin, Hyuna, Huh Gak, Humming Urban Stereo, Hwangbo (Chakra), Tiffany Hwang (Girls' Generation), Hwanhee, Hwayobi, Hyun Young, i-13, Im Yoona (Girls' Generation), Infinite, Insooni, Isak N Jiyeon, IU, Ivy, J, JB, Jr., JQT, JTL, JYJ, The Jadu, Jang Keun-suk, Jang Nara, Jang Woo Hyuk, Jang Yun-jeong, Jaurim, Jay Park, Jeon Boram (T-ara), Jeon Hye Bin, Jeon Hyosung (SECRET), Jeon Ji Yoon (4Minute), Jessica Jung (Girls' Generation), Krystal Jung (F(x)), Nicole Jung (KARA), Jewelry, Jinusean, Jo Eun Byul, Jo Sungmo, John Park, Jonghyun (SHINee), Joo Hyun-Mi, Jun Jin, Jung Daehyun (B.A.P), Jung Yong Hwa (CN Blue), Jun.K (2PM), JOO, K, KCM, Kai (EXO K), Kan Mi Youn, Kang Sung Hoon, Kangin (Super Junior), Kangta, KARA, Kevin (U-KISS), Key (SHINee), Kibum (Super Junior), Kim Ah Joong, Kim Bum, Kim Bum Soo, Kim C, Kim Dong Ryul, Kim Dong Wan, Kim Gun Mo, Kim Himchan (B.A.P), Kim Hyoyeon (Girls' Generation), Kim Hyun Joong (SS501), Kim Hyung Jun (SS501), Kim Jong Kook, Kim Joon (T-Max), Kim Kyu Jong (SS501), Kim Kyung Ho, Kim Tae Woo, Kim So Eun, Kim Soo Hyun, Kim Taeyeon (Girls' Generation), Kim Yeonji (SeeYa), Kiss, Koyote, Krystal Jung (f(x) (band)), Kwon So Hyun (4Minute), Kwon Yuri (Girls' Generation), Kyuhyun (Super Junior), K'Pop, K.Will, Lee Chae Rin (2NE1), Led Apple, Lee Dong Gun, Lee Dong Hae (Super Junior), Lee Gi Kwang (BEAST/B2ST), Lee Min Young (miss A), Lee Hong Ki (F.T. Island), Lee Hyori, Lee Hyun, Lee Jae Won, Lee Ji Hoon, Lee Jong Hyun (CN Blue), Lee Joon (MBLAQ), Lee Jun Ki, Lee Jung, Lee Jung Hyun, Lee Ki Chan, Lee Kiseop (U-KISS), Lee Min-ho, Lee Min Woo, Leessang, Lee Seung Cheol, Lee Seung Gi, Lee Soo Young, Lee Sora, Lee Soon-Kyu (Girls' Generation), Lee Sungmin (Super Junior), Lee Taemin (SHINee), Leeteuk (Super Junior), Lena Park, Lexy, Lim Chang Jung, Lim Jung Hee, Loveholic, LPG (Long Pretty Girls), LUV, Luna (singer) (f(x)), Lyn, MBLAQ, M.I.L.K, Maronnier', Kim Young Sook, MC Mong, MC The Max, MC Sniper, Mighty Mouth, Min Hae Kyung, Minho (SHINee), Min Hyorin, Mina, Minwoo, miss A, Moon Hee Jun, Moon Jong Up (B.A.P), M.I.B, M&D, MYNAME, Meng Jia (miss A), Nam Ji Hyun (4Minute), Narsha, N.EX.T, Nell, Nichkhun Horvejkul (2PM), Nicky Lee, Nine Muses, No Brain, NRG, N-Train, NU'EST, One Way, Onew (SHINee), Orange Caramel, Outsider, Papaya, Park Bom (2NE1), Park Chanyeol (EXO K), Park Gyuri (KARA), Park Jung Ah (Jewelry), Park Jung Min (SS501), Park Ji-yeon (T-ara), Park Ji Yoon, Park Jin Young, Park Yong Ha, Park Jae Beom, Park Shin Hye, Peppertones, Park Myeong-su, Park Min Young, Park Soyeon (T-ara), Qri (T-ara), R.ef, Rain, Rainbow, Rania, Roo'ra, Rumble Fish, Ryeowook (Super Junior), Ryu Shi Won, Ryu Hwayoung (T-ara), Ryu Hyoyoung (Co-ed)(5dolls), S the One, S#arp, S.E.S, Se7en, Sechs Kies, SECRET, SeeYa, Seo Joo-hyun (Girls' Generation), Seo Hyo Rim, Seo In Young, Seo Ji Young, Seo Moon Tak, Seo Taiji, Seungri, SG Wannabe, Shim Changmin, Shim Eun Jin, Shin Dongho (U-KISS), Shindong (Super Junior), Shin Hae Chul, Shin Hye Sung, Shin Ji, Shin Seung Hun, SHINee, Shinhwa, Shinvi, Shoo, Shu-I, Sim Soo-bong, Sistar, Siwon (Super Junior), SM The Ballad, So Chan Whee, Sohee (Wonder Girls), Solbi, Son Dam Bi, Son Dong-woon (BEAST/B2ST), Son Ho Young, Song Jieun (SECRET), Song Ji Hyo, Song Qian (f(x) (band)), SS501, Sugar, Sulli Choi (f(x) (band)), Sungmin (Super Junior), Sung Si Kyung, Sung Yuri, Sunny Hill, Super Junior, Super Junior-Happy, Super Junior-K.R.Y, Super Junior-M, Super Junior-T, Supernova, Supreme Team, T-Max, T-ara, T.O.P (Big Bang), T.T.MA, Tablo (Epik High), Tae Bin, Taeyeon (Girls' Generation), TaeTiSeo (Girls' Generation), Taecyeon (2PM), Tae Jin Ah, Taegoon, Taeyang, Tasha Reid, Teen Top, The Boss, Tim, Tony An, The TRAX, Trouble Maker, Turbo, Turtles, TVXQ, Two Two, Typhoon, U-Kiss, U;Nee, UEE (Solo album "Soksoksok"), UN, Uhm Jung Hwa, Ujin: see Yeon Woo, Untouchable, Uptown, Vibe, Viva Girls, Victoria Song (f(x)), Wax, Wheesung, Wonder Girls, Wang Fei Fei (miss A), Xiah, Xing, X-5 (X-FIVE), Yang Hyun Suk, Yang Yo-seob (BEAST/B2ST), Yeon Woo, Yesung (Super Junior), Yim Jae Beom, YMGA, Yoo Chae-yeong, Yoo Seung Jun, Yoo Youngjae (B.A.P), Yoon Do Hyun Band, Yoon Eun Hye, Yoon Mi-rae, Yong Jun-hyung (BEAST/B2ST), You Hee-Yeol, Younha, Yurisangja, Yu Seung-ho, Yunho, Yoon Doo-joon (BEAST/B2ST), ZE:A, Zelo (B.A.P), Zinger (SECRET)

The Seven Song Itch - New Romanticism Heartache

The New Romanticism scene that started in the UK at the beginning of the 80’s, jumped the pond and landed in America around mid decade.  These bands follow notable artists like, Duran Duran, Culture Club, and ABC, with synth driven melodies and romanticized lyrics.  These artists weren’t quite one hit wonders, because each of them had a few singles in the charts, but have all faded into the musical landscape.  Some are domestic and some are foreign, but you probably have not heard any new music from these artists in the past few decades.

Playlist for New RomanticismHeartache

1. Mr. Mister – “Broken Wings”(1985)

Richard Page, vocalist of the band, was a steady working session musician for Quincy Jones, and attained a modicum of success composing songs for Michael Jackson, Donna Summer, Kenny Loggins, and Al Jarreau.  Though the group formed in 1980, the band didn’t hit the pop charts until the release of their second album, “Welcome to the Real World,”(1985) which featured the songs “Kyrie” and this contribution.  The band’s sound is classic romanticism and sweeps over you like a gentile breeze. The group released a total of four albums and then went their separate ways.  Steve George (Keyboards) went on to work with Kenny Loggins and Jewel; Steve Farris (Guitars) worked with Rod Stewart, Whitesnake, Tori Amos, and 4 Non Blondes; and Pat Mastelotto (Drums) worked with The Rembrandts, Jude Cole, Cock Robin, Martika, XTC, Robyn Hitchcock, and The Sugarcubes.  In 1994 Mastelotto joined the group King Crimpson and has played with them extensively, as well as working on other side projects.  Not a bad legacy to leave the musical landscape.

2.Cutting Crew – “I’ve Been In Love Before”(1986)

This was the first major group to break US soil for Virgin Records, based in England.  Formed in 1985, their debut “Broadcast”(1986) produced two hit singles, “(I Just) Died In Your Arms Tonight” and this smooth ballad.  The group released a couple more albums and Kevin MacMichael (Lead guitar) left the group to work with Robert Plant.  In 2002, MacMichael died of lung cancer at the age of 51.  Nick Van Eede (Vocals) reformed the band in 2006 and released “Grinning Souls,” their forth album, and currently has a new lineup of musicians that tour around pubs in England.

3. The Blow Monkeys – “Digging Your Scene”(1986)

The group, which features Dr. Robert (Lead singer, songwriter, guitarist and piano player), Neville Henry (saxophone), Mick Anker (bass), and Tony Kiley (drums), formed in Norfolk England in 1981.  Originally a British New Wave band, they evolved into a more dance sound with their later releases, but attained some notoriety with this hit and “It Doesn’t Have To Be This Way,” off of the albums “Animal Magic”(1986) and “She Was Only a Grocer’s Daughter”(1987) respectively.  Dr. Robert’s charismatic breathy vocals whispered social and political commentary in the midst of a pop song.  I guess a spoon full of sugar really does help the medicine go down, or is that poison?

4. Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark – “If You Leave”(1986)

Okay, anybody who has seen the movie “Pretty In Pink,” knows this song.  Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys, the core of the group, formed in 1978 and went on to release 13 albums over a 30-year period and promise to release a new record in 2012 with the classic lineup.  Every time I hear this song, I can’t help but think of Molly Ringwald in that homemade prom dress

5. Breakfast Club – “Kiss and Tell”(1987)

Believe it or not, long before they released their debut album, Madonna was the drummer for this band.  This song is off of their self-titled release, which also includes their biggest hit, “Right On Track.”  The remaining members Dan Gilroy (Vocals), Ed Gilroy (Guitars), Gary Burke (Bass), Paul Kauk (Keyboards), and Stephen Bray (Drums) went on to record a second album, but it was never released.  Other noteworthy band members include Randy Jackson (Bass) and E. Doctor Smith (Percussion).  After the group called it quits in 1988, Dan Gilroy went on to star in “Mother Goose Rock 'n' Rhyme” as Gordon Goose and in “Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle” as Pete the Postman, which explains the playful nature of their early music videos.

6. Johnny Hates Jazz – “Shattered Dreams”(1987 / 1988)

JHJ formed in London in 1986 by Clark Datchler (vocals, keyboards, guitar), Mike Nocito (bass, guitar), and Calvin Hayes (keyboards, drums).  Datchler and Nocito met in the early 1980s whilst working on various projects at RAK Studios in London. Datchler had released his first solo single at the age of 17, after which he was signed to Warner Bros.. He was then signed to RAK Records as lead vocalist in the band Hot Club and as a solo artist. Nocito was a recording engineer, who had worked with Pink Floyd, The Police, The Cure and Duran Duran. He engineered and co-produced Datchler's solo recordings for RAK before the formation of JHJ. Hayes was a founder member of Hot Club and also ran the A&R Department at RAK Records. Their tongue-in-cheek name referenced Nocito’s brother-in-law Johnny, who really hated jazz. (SourceWikipedia)  There is a rumor that the band is in the studio recording new music to be released sometime in 2012.

7. Breathe – “How Can I Fall”(1988)

Originally a larger, five-person band called Catch 22, all the members were childhood friends who went to Yateley School together in Hampshire where they lived. They later trimmed down to a quartet. Phill Harrison (bass) left to join the Fire Brigade. In 1984 David Glasper (singer), Marcus Lillington (guitarist), Ian "Spike" Spice (drummer), and Michael "Mick" Delahunty (bass) began working on some demos for a record.  They end result was the album, “All That Jazz,”(1987), which contained their two best-known hits, "How Can I Fall?" and "Hands to Heaven.”

Bonus Video:

The Motels – “Only The Lonely” (1982)

Here is an earlier representation of the genre before the movement became wide spread.  It has all of the romantic heartache of the movie Casablanca–lovey-dovey couples need not apply.

The Seven Song Itch - Love Soul Revival

In my humble opinion, soul never goes out of style.  Record labels like Motown, Stax, and Atlantic are the keepers of the faith.  All of these tunes have a timeless message on how the heart can hurt so much that you just have to break into song.  Regardless of background, we can all relate to these songs on a primal level and love, or the lack of it, affects us all.

Playlist for Love Soul Revival  Note: The original versions of the songs are included in the Playlist

1. Simply Red – “If You Don't Know Me By Now”

(1989 – Original by Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, 1972)

“We all got our own funny moods.  I’ve got mine, woman you got yours too.”  Accepting someone for who they are, and not what you want them to be, is the hardest thing that I can think of in this crazy world.  It is much easier find fault in someone than to accept them.  Hate is not the opposite of love, because there is passion in hate; the real counterpoint is ambivalence.  Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, featuring the late Teddy Pendergrass, recorded this song, but it was originally intended for the girl group LaBelle.  The cover of this song was Simply Red’s greatest hit, and they keep the soul alive in this version.  It’s heartbreaking and cathartic, and I hold on to hope that the couple in the song work things out, but sometimes you just have to let go.

2. Paul Young – “Oh Girl”

(1990 – Original by the Chi-lites, 1972)

As the Beatles once sang, “All the lonely people, where do they all come from” (“Eleanor Rigby”– 1966) I find myself stating the obvious—they’re everywhere.  This song borders on codependency, but the search for a lover in this life isn’t always an easy journey.  There is so much advice on how to keep a partner, and I know it’s cliché, but sometimes you have to let someone go in order to have them in your life.  Again, communication is vital in any relationship.  You can get advice from friends, but what it really boils down to is you have to be able to receive love as well as give it.  Tell the people in your life what they mean to you.  Paul Young’s soulful voice plucks at your heart stings and plays them with divine brilliance.

3. The Commitments – “Bring It On Home To Me”

(1991 – Original by Sam Cooke, 1962)

This is another one of those songs that has been covered by dozens of artists.  It is a testament to great music when so many people identify with a song and want to make it their own.  This version is taken from the movie, “The Commitments,” which is about a working class Dublin band that embraces soul music.  The movie is a cautionary tale about keeping the music front and center and not letting all of the details distract you.  The song, itself, is about infidelity, but its message is about forgiveness and a plea to rekindle the magic that was once a part of the relationship.  Lou Rawls, sings backup on the original, but is unaccredited. 

4. Basia – “Until You Come Back to Me”

(1989/90 – Original by Stevie Wonder, but made popular by Aretha Franklin, 1973)

This is a hopeful song, because people can change.  Sometimes there is a reason that a relationship is over and there is nothing we can do about it.  Learning to live with loss is something that you never really get over, but with time, it gets easier to handle.  This song, however, is what I call the “New Evidence” rule in relationships.  It is possible to plead you case and let him or her judge if a you will be paroled from loneliness.  Basia’s version is playful without being stalkeresque and I like the lighter side of the subtext.  Aretha is still the queen, but there is room for reasonable doubt when it comes to love.

5. Seal – “I've Been Loving You Too Long”

(2008 – Original by Otis Redding, 1965)

This goes in the category of “Aint Too Proud To Beg” songs because you have to take your ego out of the situation to save something that has stood the test of time.  Sometimes we take advantage of a relationship and don’t do the work that we need to do to keep love alive.  Seal’s version is ironic in that he is currently estranged from his beautiful wife Heidi Klum.  This song is taken from the first of two Soul cover albums, “Soul”(2008) and “Soul 2”(2011), in his repertoire.  This was Otis’s first big hit, though he had been on the music scene since 1962.  This song gained popularity when the Rolling Stones recorded it for their live album, “Got Live If You Want It!”(1965), and in return Otis recorded a version of “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” on his third record, “Otis Blue”(1965).  It does my heart good to see the synergy of great musicians in mutual admiration.

6. Joan Osborne – “What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted”

(2002 – Original by Jimmy Ruffin, 1962)

This performance is taken from the documentary film “Standing in the Shadows of Motown”(2002) and should be mandatory viewing for anyone that has a little bit of soul in them.  The great thing about Joan’s version is that the original house band of Motown, the Funk Brothers, backs her up on this song.  Although the song was earmarked for the group The Spinners, Jimmy (the older brother of Temptations lead singer David Ruffin) persuaded lyricist James Dean (not the actor) to be the one to record the single.  It would be Jimmy’s only hit, but this song has found life with many other artists, including a version by Paul Young, for the movie “Fried Green Tomatoes”(1991/92).  

7. Tina Turner – “Let’s Stay Together”

(1983 – Original by Al Green, 1971)

Though I like to put these songs in chronological order, I wanted to end this list with healing instead of hurting.  This was a great song for Tina, and revived her career one year before the release of her phenomenal comeback album, “Private Dancer”(1984).  The vocal range in this version is out of this world, and who wouldn’t take Tina back after hearing her version of this song?  Of course, this is a classic Al Green song, and it has never really gone out of style.  It has a timeless message in that all relationships have their up’s and down’s but you gotta stick it out for the ones you love in this life.  I can’t think of a better way to heal a hurting soul, than with this list of soulful classics about Love.

The Seven Song Itch - CMA Music Festival

I love Country Music—all types from Twangy to Contemporary, hardworking and rasin’ hell, it is truly the music of America.  And yes, I’ve heard the joke about what happens when you play a country music song backwards…you get your girl back, your dog back, and your beer back, but that’s not the case in all of the songs.  CMA Music Festival (This year’s festival is June 7-10^th) is one of the most unique festivals that I’ve had the pleasure of attending.  It brings together country music fans from around the world and gathers them in Nashville, TN for a week of concerts and events.  The actual CMA part, is Thursday-Sunday, but there are lot’s of pre/post-events that bring out the fans for the whole week.  There are early and late shows up and down Broadway, as well as in East Nashville (Five Corners) and venues adjacent to Music Row.  This festival brings together new country as well as classic country artists that have come before.  There is an exposition aspect to this event where fans get to meet the artists up close and personal.  There are fans that come back year after year and have ‘family reunions’ at this event and people buy tickets for the next year even before any of the artists are announced.  Artists like Glen Campbell, Kenny Rogers, Ronnie Milsap, Oak Ridge Boys appear on the same stages as Carrie Underwood, The Band Perry, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts, and Martina McBride.  There are more headliners than you can shake a stick at, so I’ve decided to pick some of my favorites.

Playlist for CMA MusicFestival

1. Glen Campbell – “Country Boy (You’ve Got Your Feet In LA)”(1975)

There are dozens of Campbell classics, but this song rings true to me, regardless of musical genre.  Currently on his farewell tour, this classic tune addresses the pressures a small town country boy when he finally hits it big, and he finds that all of the fame and fortune isn’t what it’s cracked up to be.

2. Ronnie Milsap "Smokey Mountain Rain"(1980)

Not many people know this, but Ronnie played keyboards on Elvis’s “Kentucky Rain” song back in the day. At the beginning of this video, it’s great to hear about his influences.

3. Martina McBride – “This One's For The Girls”(2003)

Yes, I know she has a new album out, “Eleven”(2011), but this song showcases the spunky nature of her music at its full force.  This song carry’s the theme of not letting the circumstances around you dictate how you should react.

CD Review of "Eleven" by Martina McBride

4. Dierks Bently – “Am I The Only One”(2011)

When you live on a 24-hour schedule, it’s hard to coordinate meeting up with someone—Lord I know this.  It’s even harder when all of your friends have decided to get right in their lives and are not up for a little hell rasin’.  Am I getting too old?

5. Zac Brown Band – “No Hurry”(2012)

This contemporary band has classic country roots.  This band epitomizes the country creed of sayin’ what cha’ mean and not apologizin’ for what you do.  Sure, makin’ amends is a good thing, but only when you have gone though the hard livin’ and discover that there’s no rush in this world.  Just take it nice and easy.

6. Carrie Underwood – “Good Girl”(2012)

Now this song rocks.  Is it just me or are most contemporary country artists out there have a rock and roll sound?  In any case, this song has Carrie firing on all cylinders and shows her edgy side while still staying true to her good girl ways.

7. Rascal Flatts – “Banjo”(2012)

I think that the Banjo is making a come back.  Just a few years ago Comedian Steve Martin took a band out on the road and played this instrument for sold out audiences around the nation.  This band, however, doesn’t need another hit, but I’m glad that they keep on making great records.

List of artists:

Jason Aldean, Glen Campbell, Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, Brad Paisley, Zac Brown Band, Nashville School Of Arts Chamber Choir, The Band Perry, Brantley Gilbert, Ronnie Milsap, Jake Owen, Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, OAK RIDGE BOYS, Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Hunter Hayes, Faith Hill, Little Big Town, Kenny Rogers, Julie Roberts, Dierks Bentley, Alan Jackson, The Mavericks, Martina McBride, Scotty McCreery, Rascal Flatts, Lee Brice, Colt Ford, Tracy Lawrence, Dustin Lynch, Neal McCoy, Montgomery Gentry, Craig Morgan, Jerrod Niemann, Randy Rogers Band, Josh Thompson, Uncle Kracker, Jeff Bates, Greg Bates, Julie Roberts, Tyler Farr, Classic Country Show (Moe Bandy, T. Graham Brown, Janie Fricke, Gene Watson), Trent Tomlinson, Miss Willie Brown, Cledus T. Judd, Eric Paslay, Rose Falcon, Katie Armiger, Exile, The McClymonts, Frankie Ballard, Big Smo, Drake White, Blackberry Smoke, Josh Gracin, Trailer Choir, Sonia Leigh, Randy Montana, The Cleverlys, Canaan Smith, Jaida Dreyer, Bucky Covington, Mark Wills, Jon Pardi, Jason Michael Carroll, Mandy Barnett, Joanna Smith, Charlie Worsham, Kentucky Headhunters, Robin Meade, Andy Gibson, Mockingbird Sun, HER & Kings County, Lindsay Lawler, Tim Dugger, Blackjack Billy, Jason Cassidy, Bush Hawg, Sunny Sweeney, Kristy Lee Cook, Matt Gary, Lighter Ray, Rachel Holder, Aaron Parker, Michael Ray, Morgan Frazier, Parmalee, Rachel Farley, Drew Smith, Lacey Brown, Russell Dickerson, Lyndsey Highlander, Maggie Rose, Levi Lowrey, Donny Fallgatter, The Henningsens, Chris Janson, Dean Alexander, Connor Christian & Southern Gothic.

The Seven Song Itch - Demon Alcohol Songs

Many years ago, I earned a living as a bartender and I’ve learned a lot about life from this profession.  After settling into the position, you either become a drunk or a teetotaler—there’s really no middle ground.  There is a great amount of responsibility to serving drinks, and I’m not talking about knowing what is in a rum and coke.  You see the same faces night after night, hear their stories, and ponder why you are in this position. I’ve been their friend, counselor and even parent from time to time.  I eventually drank myself out of the position, though I never considered myself a drunk.  I was just curious about all of the bottles that sat behind me at the bar.  It took me three months to sample all of them.  Now, many years later, I know my limits and only drink alcohol to celebrate a situation, not run from one, which brings me to the point of this list.  I am an intellectual drunk and tend to disappear when my mind, and floor, starts spinning.  I like the happy drunks, but I usually served the angry ones.  For whatever reason, they always seemed to sit at my station and more times than not the police became involved.  Not that these songs are bad, but they tend to be the ones on the Jukebox when a fight breaks out, which is entertaining, but hard on the furnishings.  Each generation has their list of drinking songs that sometimes leads to violence.  I like these songs, they bring merriment to a situation, but sometimes I think some people get the wrong idea.  Violence isn’t created by one event or song in one’s life.  It is a process that develops out of your own experience and listening to these selections won’t change you.  I think that too many people use the excuse of music to justify their bad behavior, but I don’t buy it.  I enjoy these songs when I’m sloshed or sober.  This list is dedicated to my “lovey” friend upon her 21^st birthday.  I think she has the right attitude about the demon alcohol and will probably have a good relationship with the spirits.  May your hangovers be few and your drinks be free.

Playlist for Demon AlcoholSongs

1. Metallica – “Whiskey In The Jar”(1998)

This cover was recorded between the albums “Reload” and “St. Anger” and is a popular traditional Irish song that has been recorded by a slew of artists, most notably by Thin Lizzy in 1972.  With each generation, this song crops up and the band of the moment records it.  I really like this version because I’ve seen some of the best bar fights in an Irish pub when this song is played.

2. Nashville Pussy – “Hate and Whiskey”(2000)

This song is taken from the album “High as Hell,” and really fits my current situation.  Living in a small town, and earning a measly wage, there really isn’t enough left over to actually try to better yourself.  At the end of the pay period the bars become filled with angry young men that eventually become angry old men.  The ‘don’t fuck with me’ mentality is really prevalent, but if you just take the time to get to know someone, you might just end up as drinkin’ buddies and not barroom brawlers. 

3. Black Label Society – “Stoned And Drunk”(2003)

“The Blessed Hellride,” is one of the best beer drinkin’ albums—period.  The code of the BLS is Strength, Determination, Merciless, and Forever.  And Zakk Wylde (occasional guitarist for Ozzy) subscribes to the philosophy of ‘fear no beer,’ which I think is a lot better than fearing what might be going down in the parking lot after those who do not obey the code.

4. Rob Zombie – “Pussy Liquor”(2003)

This is taken from the albums, “House of 1000 Corpses” and his first greatest hits, “Past, Present & Future.”  The voice over in this track is Sherri Moon Zombie, and though she is a sinisterly sensual gal, she has the ability to go from 0 to crazy in .08 seconds, which is over the legal limit for alcohol in Indiana.

5. Buckcherry – “Too Drunk...”(2008)

I’d like to think that this song was inspired by the Dead Kennedy’s song, “Too Drunk to Fuck,” but I’m sure there was some homage to this punk rock classic.  Taken from the “Black Butterfly” album, this song was replaced with a cover of "Highway Star" in the re-released version/"clean" version.  I think that both songs need to be in this record.  It’s one of those lifestyle party songs that for those in the know, nod their heads in agreement.

6. GODSMACK – “Whiskey Hangover”(2009)

Now this is dedication.  Taken off of the album “The Oracle,” this is a real life conversation that I’ve had with many an angry drunk.  It brings back good memories though, but not in the way you would think.  It’s a hard-nosed approach to dealing with other people’s shit.  Sometimes I wish I could just tell the annoying people in my life to just fuck off, but then I would be in more bar fights than I would like.

7. Genitotortures – “Devil In a Bottle”(2009)

I am in Love with this woman, but it would be a short-lived affair.  Nevertheless, this song is taken off of the album “Blackheart Revolution,” where Gen delves into the consequences of being a Joan of Arc leader of the freaks.  This whole record rocks, so check it out.

Interview with Genof the Genitortures.

Bonus Videos:

Old school alcoholism of the eighties.

Ozzy Osborune – “Suicide Solution”(1980)

The first solo effort, “Blizzard of Oz,” from the Oz man himself.  This song caused so much controversy, but it’s really a wakeup call for those who drink to excess.  It’s just a slower version of putting a gun to your head.

ACDC – “Have a Drink on Me” (1980)

There really isn’t a filler track on their seminal release, “Back In Black.”  Yes, this is the mythical album after Bon Scott (original vocalist) died by choking on his own vomit due to alcohol consumption. The whole album deals with the consequences of the rock star lifestyle and should be mandatory listening for all, and there are great songs on it as well.

Def Leppard – “Me and My Wine”(1981)

This is one of the singles of the album, “High ‘n’ Dry,” and showcases how the band gets thier party on, and yet, years later, they went though a myriad of difficulties including the death of guitarist Stephen Maynard Clark (Codeine/Alchol Overdose) and Rick Allen (Drums) loosing his arm due to an automobile accident.

Bonus Bonus Video:

Rehab – “Bartender (Sittin' At A Bar)”(2008)

I have heard this story a million times.