Top 10 Albums of 2011

From debuts to come backs to re-leases, 2011 was full of hot albums from pop, rock, American Idols and even soap opera stars. Here are my Top 10 album picks of the year.

10. Scotty McCreery - Clear As Day
The latest American Idol winner Scotty McCreery released his debut album Clear As Day last month, selling 197,000 copies in it's first week. The country singer became the second American Idol winner to reach #1 on the Billboard 200 with a debut album, and if you've heard it, you know why. With hit songs like "I Love You This Big" and "The Trouble with Girls," Scotty shows off his stunning voice in these sweet, country songs.

9. Port Chuck - Port Chuck
General Hospital based band Port Chuck released their self-titled, debut album this past April, featuring pop and rock covers. Between the fast-paced "No One Like You" and Scott Reeves' slow "Hallelujah," which was featured on the soap, this album showcases the guys' unique voices, as well as their personalities.

8. David Cook - This Loud Morning
After a lot of waiting and anticipation, David Cook released his sophomore album this past June, titled This Loud Morning. This time around, Cook has a more mature and distinct sound with songs like rock single "The Last Goodbye" and the soft "Fade Into Me." Better than his debut, this new album does not disappoint.

7. Enation - My Ancient Rebellion
General Hospital star Jonathan Jackson and his Indie rock band Enation released their latest album My Ancient Rebellion a few months ago, on the same day they were honored by About.Me.com and featured on a billboard in New York City. With songs like their single "The Rushing Wind" and "Tears of Hope," this album is soulful and artistic, just like Enation.

6. Kelly Clarkson - Stronger
Kelly Clarkson came back stronger than ever on her newest album, featuring powerful anthems like her single "Mr. Know It All" and the title track "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)," as well as soft ballads like "Breaking Your Own Heart" and "Standing In Front of You." This is one of the best and strongest albums of 2011.

5. Hot Chelle Rae - Whatever
I never thought twice about Hot Chelle Rae until I saw them live in concert. Boy bands in the rock genre have never really been my thing, until now. Hot Chelle Rae released their debut album Whatever last month, and prove that their more than just a rock 'n roll boy band. Between their upbeat, hit singles "Tonight Tonight" and "I Like It Like That," to showing a sensitive side in songs like "Keep You With Me" and the beautiful ballad "Why Don't You Love Me?" with Demi Lovato, these guys show their uniqueness and creativity in every song.

4. Big Time Rush - Elevate
Big Time Rush's sophomore album Elevate is bigger and better than their first, featuring all new pop and rock songs, eight of which were co-written by the guys themselves. The guys show off their fun side in songs like their single "Music Sounds Better With U" and "Time of Our Life," and a sensitive side in songs like "Invisible" and "Cover Girl." Though the guys are mostly known for their pop rock sound, Kendall, James, Carlos and Logan also show off the balladeer in them in songs like "You Are Not Alone" and "All Over Again." This album is fun and sweet, just like the guys!

3. Jack and White - Gemini
The Brooke White and Jack Matranga collaboration took off with the release of their first EP Gemini. The 6-song EP features their single "Double Trouble," as well as other cheery and upbeat songs, perfect for this one-of-a-kind duo.

2. David Archuleta - The Other Side of Down: Asian Tour Edition
After making the decision to leave his record label this past year, David Archuleta re-released his sophomore album The Other Side of Down in Asia, just in time for his summer tour there. The Asian Tour Edition features four brand new songs from David, along with his hit song "Zero Gravity." David shows a more mature sound on songs like ballad "Everything And More" and the longing, pop song "Wait." This re-release became #1 on CDWow.com, and though he plans to take a two-year break to serve an LDS mission next year, I know there's still a bright future for David in the music industry.

1. Demi Lovato - Unbroken
Demi Lovato made the biggest come back this year after spending months in rehab. Demi came back stronger than ever, musically and personally. Her third studio album Unbroken became #1 on iTunes within hours of it's release. With the hit single "Skyscraper," along with ballads like "Lightweight" and "Give Your Heat A Break" to upbeat songs like the title track "Unbroken" and "Hold Up," this album shows the best of Demi, and I know things are just going to get better from here.

There's my Top 10 albums of the year. Happy New Year!

Happy 15th Birthday to Marisa, of Michael and Marisa!

Happy 15th Birthday to Marisa, 

from Michael and Marisa!

David Archuleta fans thank him upon hearing mission announcement

After David Archuleta made the announcement that he plans to take a 2-year break to serve an LDS mission for his church, his fans have been nothing but supportive, and even came together to make this video, thanking David for all he's done in the past 4 years. Watch the tribute video below:


Credit to xXAllieSings94Xx

Kelly Clarkson's album sales go up after Ron Paul controversy

Yesterday, Kelly Clarkson innocently posted her opinion of political figure Ron Paul on twitter, saying, "I love Ron Paul. I liked him a lot during the last republican nomination and no one gave him a chance. If he wins the nomination for the Republican party in 2012 he’s got my vote. Too bad he probably won’t."

That one tweet got Kelly a lot of hate on twitter, at which Kelly shot back at a few hateful tweets, then later posted this response, "I am really sorry if I have offended anyone. Obviously that was not my intent. I do not 
support racism. I support gay rights, straight rights, women’s rights, men’s rights, white/black/purple/orange rights. I like Ron Paul because he believes in less government and letting the people (all of us) make the decisions and mold our country. That is all. Out of all of the Republican nominees, he’s my favorite."


Today, upon the controversy going down, Kelly's album sales are going up! What was #41 jumped to #13 on Amazon's Movers and Shakers, Kelly's latest album Stronger has just climbed to #2 on the Best Sellers.

Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt cover "What Are You Doing New Years Eve?"

New Girl star Zooey Deschanel and actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt starred in the 2009 movie 500 Days of Summer, and just recently posted this fun duet of "What Are You Doing New Years Eve?" by Nancy Wilson. "I hope to do a thousand more movies with him because he's simply the best," says Zooey. "But in the meantime, we made a little New Year's duet for all of you!"

Watch the video below:

Demi Lovato releases "Give Your Heart A Break" lyric video

Off of her latest album Unbroken, Demi Lovato has released her second single, "Give Your Heart A Break." Demi will debut the song live on New Year's Eve, and just recently posted this lyric video for the song.

The video features Demi outside sitting on a bench, writing the song lyrics in her journal. Watch the new lyric video below:

Check out David Archuleta's new "Wait" music video!

Off of The Other Side of Down: Asian Tour Edition, David Archuleta has released a new music video for his latest single "Wait." David shot the music video last month in Hong Kong, showing a more emotional side of himself as he performs the song and looks on to a scenario that appears to be a girl getting into a fatal accident. My guess is that, the release of this song is per recent events.

Last week, David made the announcement that he'll be taking a 2-year break to serve an LDS mission for his church. Throughout his My Kind of Christmas Tour, David sang "Wait" and described it as a song about "when you lose someone that you care about, and wish that they were still there." Before he leaves on his mission, David is telling his fans to "wait" for him in this new, symbolic music video. Even though you're gone, I can hear your heart, It's calling out my name like a flash in the dark... Just one more minute, Wait, wait wait, Don't go...

Watch the music video below:

Brooke White performs National Anthem for the first time at Sun's Opener

Monday night at the Phoenix Sun's Opener, Brooke White performed the National Anthem for the first time ever. "It's a big song and I felt it, I am relieved it's done and glad I did it!" Brooke says. Watch the performance below:



Go HERE to read my interview with Brooke and Jack Matranga, as Jack and White.

Big Time Rush wants to duet with Demi Lovato!

Via an interview with AOL Music, the guys of Big Time Rush revealed that they would love to duet with Demi Lovato!

Logan spills, "We’d love to do a song with her. We saw her two times in the last few days at Jingle Balls. I asked her. All it would take is a day to write and record a song and you have it. Whether or not it gets used, I don’t know, but it would be really great."

James chimes in saying Demi's new record is "awesome," while Kendall gives a practical answer. "I think to have her on our TV show would step into some awesome boundaries with Disney and Nickelodeon. It would be kind of cool."

Logan and Demi go way back, as they were in the same acting class together when they were younger! Logan says, "It was the same acting class with Selena Gomez and Demi and myself and Cody Linely. A group of all of us … I still talk to Cody. Not so much right now, he’s still busy. He just booked a new show."

What would you think of a BTR/Demi collab?

Happy 21st Birthday, David Archuleta!

Happy 21st Birthday to David Archuleta! 

Hope you have an awesomeage day, David!!

Demi Lovato slams Disney Channel for eating disorder joke

Last Friday, an annoyed Demi Lovato took to twitter to make her feelings known about a recent episode of the Disney Channel series Shake It Up. In the episode, a teen model says to the two main actresses that she could "just eat them up," if she ate. Referring to the model having an eating disorder, Demi did not like that one bit, tweeting, "I find it really funny how a company can lose one of their actress' from the pressures of an EATING DISORDER and yet still make joke about that very disease... Dear Disney Channel, EATING DISORDERS ARE NOT SOMETHING TO JOKE ABOUT."

Lovato left her Disney Channel show Sonny With A Chance last year after entering rehab for an eating disorder, among other things. Demi continued to tweet, "And is it just me or are the actress' getting THINNER AND THINNER.... I miss the days of RAVEN, and LIZZIE MCGUIRE."

Just minutes later, a Disney Channel rep tweeted Demi, "“We hear you & are pulling both episodes as quickly as possible & reevaluating them. It’s NEVER our intention to make light of eating disorders!” Demi responded to the tweet with a 'Thank you,' and as a result of her tweets, Disney Channel pulled the Shake It Up episode.

David Archuleta performs "Waiting On The World To Change" with Jeff LeBlanc

At his last show of his My Kind of Christmas tour, David Archuleta came out for his encore, then called opener Jeff LeBlanc on stage. The two performed an acoustic duet of John Mayer's "Waiting On The World To Change," which was also the song David performed for his first American Idol audition. Some say, he ended with the song he started with, as David recently announced he'll be taking a two year break to serve an LDS Mission. Except, this is anything but the end. David gave an amazing performance as the audience gave an emotional response, but this is definitely not the end for David - it's just the beginning.

Watch the performance below:



You can read my interview with Jeff HERE and my interview with David HERE.

Chris Daughtry to play on The Price Is Right

Chris Daughtry played on The Price Is Right for charity, and the episode airs on January 5 at 10AM. Watch a sneak peek below:

Michael Bublé's "All I Want For Christmas Is You" featured on General Hospital

Michael Bublé's version of "All I Want For Christmas Is You" off of his new Christmas album was featured on today's holiday episode of General Hospital. You can watch the clip below:


Credit to ashleycramni

Happy 14th Birthday to Michael, of Michael and Marisa!

Happy 14th Birthday to Michael, 

of the brother sister duo Michael and Marisa!

My Top 10 Picks for Christmas Songs

10. Last Christmas - Wham!
Heartbreak and Christmas shouldn't fit so perfectly hand-in-hand, but this song seems to be an exception. Lots have covered it, but no version compares to Wham!'s original "Last Christmas."


9. What Christmas Means To Me - Stevie Wonder
This catchy, jingle bell beat will draw you in, while these sweet lyrics will have you thinking about what Christmas means to you.


8. I Need A Silent Night - Amy Grant
This more unknown Amy Grant song is one that needs to be showcased, for it's true lyrics about needing a 'silent night' after the hectic days of Christmas shopping. This song will really get your priorities straight during the Christmas season.


7. Beautiful Christmas - Big Time Rush
All I can say here is that this song will leave you wanting to have a big time beautiful Christmas!


6. Cold December Night - Michael Buble
Off of his new Christmas album, titled Christmas, this Michael Buble original will have you bobbing your head to it's cute, Christmasy beat as Michael sings about what he wants on this cold December night.


5. The Cat and the Mouse Carol - Mormon Tabernacle Choir ft. David Archuleta
Just this year has this song become a favorite of mine. Never hearing it before now, this adorable Christmas song reflects a little cat and mouse's view of Jesus' birth. This beautiful arrangement from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and David Archuleta has brought this song to life.


4. Believe - Josh Groban
Josh Groban has a lot of Christmas hits, and though this one may not showcase his powerful voice, it holds a lot more meaning than the other classics. "Believe" from The Polar Express is an uplifting Christmas ballad that Josh prevails in, giving the song a certain holiday 'magic'.


3. All I Want For Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey
This song has been one of my all time favorite Christmas songs pretty much my whole life. When I was younger I only focused on the fun, upbeat rhythm, but as I got older paid more attention to the meaningful and relatable lyrics.


2. Step Into Christmas - Elton John
This song has become one of my favorites over the last few years. With it's catchy beat and fun lyrics, it makes for a great holiday tune.


1. Melodies Of Christmas - David Archuleta
What better song for Christmas than a song about Christmas music? David Archuleta's "Melodies Of Christmas" describes the important of holiday melodies, in it's own cute, holiday melody! And for that reason, puts it at the number one spot.

Song Review: Taylor Swift ft. The Civil Wars - Safe & Sound

For the soundtrack of the upcoming movie Hunger Games, starring Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth, Taylor Swift performs "Safe & Sound," featuring Grammy nominated duo The Civil Wars. This chilling, acoustic ballad showcases what we all love about The Civil Wars, and gives us something new to love about Taylor. Being a different sound than what we've heard from her in the past, she performs this slow, folk song with fragility in her voice, yet at the same time shows strength in the lyrics. Just close your eyes, The sun is going down, You’ll be alright, No one can hurt you now, Come morning light, You and I will be safe and sound, Taylor and Joy Williams sing, keeping the song delicate yet powerful.

Hunger Games is in theaters on March 23.

Happy 22nd Birthday, Jordin Sparks!

Happy 22nd Birthday to Jordin Sparks!

Sneak peek of David Archuleta's "Wait" music video!

The wait for David Archuleta's new music video is almost over! The new video, that David filmed in Hong Kong, for his single "Wait" will premiere on Christmas Day. You can watch a sneak peek of the video below:


Credit to JRforDA2011

Jennifer Hudson duets with... Jennifer Hudson? New Weight Watchers ad!

Jennifer Hudson duets with her old American Idol self in her new Weight Watchers commercial. The two (or one?) perform the Whitney Houston song "I Believe In You And Me," stating that you should believe in Weight Watchers. Watch the promo video below:

David Archuleta announces plans to serve LDS Mission

At his My Kind of Christmas concert in his hometown of Salt Lake City, David Archuleta announced to his home that he plans to serve a two-year LDS Mission next year. The teary-eyed singer says, "It's not because someone told me that I was supposed to do it and not because I no longer want to do music anymore, but it's because it's the feeling that I felt I need to do next in my life." David goes on, "I've learned to trust that feeling, and I've learned to answer when it calls."

As for David's fans, as you'll see in the video, they seem to be nothing but supportive of David's decision, tweeting him lots of love and congrats. David's following his heart, it's inspirational, and I know he'll be great. Sources say that though David will be be taking this time off, he definitely plans on continuing music afterward, and that he still has some things in store before he leaves.

You can watch the video of David's announcement below:

Happy 29th Birthday, David Cook!

Wishing a big, happy birthday to David Cook! Hope you have a loud morning and a quiet night!

David Archuleta sings Michael Jackson's "Man In The Mirror"

At a VIP meet and greet with fans in Anaheim, CA, David Archuleta performed a cover of Michael Jackson's  "Man In The Mirror." I've always wanted to hear David sing this song, and now that he has, he sang it just as amazingly as I always thought. This song fits David perfectly, musically and lyrically, as David put so much emotion into this minute-long performance.


Credit to daviddailycom

Which MJ would you like to see David cover next? You can also read my interview with David HERE.

Top 5 Christmas Releases This Year

Many artists have taken on Christmas classics this holiday season, but here are the Top 5 Christmas releases of this year.

1. Glad Christmas Tiding - Mormon Tabernacle Choir ft. David Archuleta

This year's Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas album is one of their best ever, featuring singer David Archuleta and lots of new arrangements on classic and unknown holiday songs. The MoTab Choir performs their beautiful rendition of "Away In The Manger" and their fun "A Christmas Roundelay," while David Archuleta sings "Los pastores a belen" in Spanish and his majestic "Gesu Bambino" with the choir. Also on the album is David Archuleta's original arrangement of "Silent Night," and he then later joins the choir for a gorgeous final song, "Angels, from the Realms of Glory." Glad Christmas Tidings is full of Christmas spirit, as you can tell everyone singing really feels the joy of the season.


2. Christmas - Michael Bublé

One of the best selling albums of the year, Michael Bublé's Christmas features a Bublé spin on classic holiday songs. Bublé lends his silky smooth voice to songs like "All I Want For Christmas Is You" and "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)," as well as one original song titled "Cold December Night." Still as he jazzes them up and makes them his own, Bublé leaves some Christmas magic in each song, making for a very enjoyable holiday album.




3. A Very She & Him Christmas - She & Him

Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward's band She & Him have a Christmas album that is very, well, she & him! A Very She & Him Christmas is full of Christmas classics turned jazz-folk pop as Zooey showcases her unique voice and M. Ward shows his guitar skills, giving this album a distinct sound, but still with plenty of Christmas spirit. These arrangements are cute and fun, just like She & Him, and make for a great Christmas album.




4. A Very GaGa Holiday - Lady Gaga

Lady GaGa is as original as they come. I mean, who else would film a Thanksgiving special? From A Very GaGa Thanksgiving, Lady GaGa released A Very GaGa Holiday EP, featuring live performances from the special. Included is a cover of Nat King Cole's "Orange Colored Sky," as well as her songs "You And I" and "The Edge of Glory." But the highlight of this EP is her version of the Christmas classic "White Christmas." Lady GaGa jazzed it up and even added her own original verse to the song, saying that the song is beautiful, but too short. I'm dreaming of a white snowman, With a carrot nose and charcoal eyes, she sings. After hearing this, I'm dreaming of another GaGa holiday!


5. "God Bless Us Everyone" - Melinda Doolittle

Melinda Doolittle released her first holiday single this year titled "God Bless Us Everyone." There's been a lot of Christmas single releases this year, but Melinda's is definitely one of the best, as it describes the simple joys of the season. Melinda showcases her powerful voice in this holiday ballad, with it's magical melodies and heartwarming lyrics. This song gives you just one think to think about, God bless us everyone.

BTR talks touring with 1D

Big Time Rush is teaming up with UK boy band One Direction for their Better With U Tour, starting in February. The two bands are similar both musically and personality wise, and are sure to make for an awesome show. BTR recently spilled to Artisen News that they, along with their Rushers, are excited for them to hit the road with 1D!

"Every time we mention to our fans that they're coming with us, almost all of our fans know who they are, and are getting really excited." James says. Watch the full interview below:


Credit to ArtisanNewsService

Album Review: Dapo & Friends Christmas

Producer Dapo Torimiro has worked with numerous artists like David Archuleta, Stacy Barthe and Nikki Flores, to name a few. Now Dapo has gathered together all of them and more for his first Christmas release, Dapo & Friends Christmas. Putting spins on classic holiday tunes, this album features a collection of different voices with different arrangements as the artists make these Christmas songs their own. Max Schneider's more pop fusion feel on "Jingle Bells" and Stacy Barthe's soulful version of "Sleigh Ride" give the album a fun vibe, while songs like Gaby Ramirez's jazzy "Blue Christmas" and Nikki Flores' R&B "The Christmas Song" take it down a notch and bring a calmer feel to the album. Scotty Granger's R&B take on "All I Want For Christmas (Is You)" and TC's impassioned "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" ballad add another sense of calmness, as well as emotion to the album.

But the highlight of the album is, without a doubt, David Archuleta's "Little Drummer Boy." A song David kills live on his My Kind of Christmas Tour, with the rock rhythm as David gives it his all for the encore, though this version is a little different. This more R&B ballad showcases David's deeper register, with the soft drumming arrangement in the background, and isn't anything more or less than what the song should be.

This 10-song release makes for a different Christmas album, being more original than classic, but definitely doesn't disappoint. One thing this album is not, is boring. These arrangements will leave you wanting more, and the artists' voices are genuine and unique. You can download the album HERE.

Brooke White is expecting a baby girl in May!

Brooke White just announced on her blog that she and husband Dave are expecting a baby girl, due in May. Congratulations to both of them!

"For approximately the last four months I've been on the go, on the road, playing my guitar, singing songs, creating goofy girls with glasses videos, fixin' a house, recording records and oh yeah... keeping a big secret about another massive "little project" I've been hard at work on... Yep, I'm havin' a BABY y'all!" Brooke explains. "I've always said I wanted to be an "M&M," a musician and a momma."

You can read more on Brooke's blog Brookie Babble

You can read my interview with Brooke and her songwriting partner
                                                             Jack Matranga HERE.

Star-studded audience at David Archuleta's Christmas concert

Last night, David Archuleta performed his My Kind of Christmas concert at Club Nokia in LA with a star-studded audience! Attending was Season 7 pal Syesha Mercado, as well as fellow Idols Kris Allen and Allison Iraheta. Also in the audience was David's former band members Dave Filice and Alredo Herz, along with iCarly star Jennette McCurdy.

David also performed his original song "Fa La La La La" with co-writer Sunny Hilden. You can watch David perform the song with Sunny below:


Credit to mmz4631

Vote for Enation as OurStage's Fan Favorite + new tour dates!

It's been a big year for General Hospital star Jonathan Jackson and his band Enation, with the release of their new album being showcased on a billboard in Times Square - all thanks to the voting of their fans! Now help Enation end the year on a kick and vote for them in OurStage's Fan Favorite poll! Voting ends tomorrow, so go HERE to vote!

Also check out Enation's new East Coast tour dates below, and go HERE for ticket info!!

Friday, Feb. 24th, 2012 (CT)
Jonathan Jackson (GH) & Enation
Treehouse Comedy Production @ Marisa’s
Trumbull, CT
Showtime: 10:00 p.m.
Tickets: $75.00 includes concert, includes meet/greet & autographs

Saturday, Feb. 25th, 2012 (NY)
Jonathan Jackson (GH) & Enation
Governor’s Comedy Club
Levittown, NY
Showtime: 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: $84 includes concert, includes meet/greet & autographs

Sunday, Feb. 26th, 2012 (NJ)
Jonathan Jackson (GH) & Enation
Uncle Vinnies
Point Pleasant, NJ
Showtime: 1:30 p.m.
Tickets: $75 + tax includes concert, includes meet/greet & autographs

Demi Lovato to host MTV's 'NYE in NYC 2012'

Demi Lovato announced on twitter that she will be hosting MTV's 'NYE in NYC 2012' with Teen Wolf star Tyler Posey. Demi will reunite with friend Selena Gomez, who is slated to perform. Other performers will be Jason Derulo, J. Cole, Mac Miller, as well as a performance from Demi.

The show will air live at 11pm on New Years Eve.

Check out Kelly Clarkson's new music video for "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)"

Following "Mr. Know It All," her first hit off of her latest album, Kelly has a new music video for her new single "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)." This anthem is the title track of her album, and this new music video will definitely have you feeling stronger!

The video consists of fan-made videos from Kelly's fans, then Kelly joins in at the end for a giant flash mob. What's stronger than a flash mob, right? Watch the new video below:

David Archuleta performs on Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas special

Last December, David Archuleta performed Christmas concerts with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. This year, the performances have been released on CD and DVD titled Glad Christmas Tidings, and last night the special aired on PBS. The Glad Christmas Tidings special will run on PBS from now through Christmas, so be sure to check your local listings!

Watch David perform "Joy To The World" from the special below:


Credit to piratesrock06

You can read my review of Glad Christmas Tidings HERE. And to know which one word David would describe getting to perform with the MoTab Choir, you can find out in my interview with David HERE.

David Archuleta "Little Drummer Boy" compilation tour video

David Archuleta's performance of "Little Drummer Boy" is, what I think, one of the highlights of his My Kind of Christmas Tour. David performs the song as his encore, and the energy and emotion he put into that performance at the Irving Plaza was incredible and left everyone amazed and in the Christmas spirit.

Here's a compilation video of David performing the song on the first few shows of his tour:



You can read my review of David's My Kind of Christmas concert HERE and check out my interview with David HERE.

Happy 22nd Birthday to Taylor Swift!

Taylor Swift celebrates her 22nd birthday today! Hope you have a fun and fearless day, Taylor!

Song of the Night: Ella Mae Bowen - Holding Out For A Hero

From this year's remake of Footlose, Ella Mae Bowen performs a cover of "Holding Out For A Hero." Ella makes it her own and brings a whole new meaning to the song in this emotional, acoustic version of the Bonnie Tyler song.

Song Review: Jordin Sparks - Angels Are Singing

From the new ABC Family movie 12 Dates of Christmas, Jordin Sparks has lent her voice to a new holiday hit. "Angels Are Singing" is a cute, pop Christmas song that takes you through the "12 days of Christmas," then goes into a catchy chorus. The angels are singing, The snow if falling all around, The bells are ringing, Can you hear it?, Jordin sings to an enjoyable beat, the chiming of Christmas bells included!

Perfect for the movie and perfect for the holiday season, this song is full of Christmas spirit and is sure to be a hit!

Ryan Star and Steve Van Zandt join David Cook on stage in NYC

During David Cook's concert at the Irving Plaza in NYC on Friday, Cook was joined on stage by Ryan Star and E Street Band's Steve Van Zandt. The guys performed Led Zeppelin's "Rock and Roll" and The Beatles' "Eight Days A Week." Watch the performances below:


Credit to jsalow2

Cook hasn't been the only David at the Irving Plaza this month, when fellow Season 7 competitor David Archuleta held his My Kind of Christmas concert there last week. You can read my review of Archie's show HERE.

Kelly Clarkson to record duet with Demi Lovato

Kelly Clakrson spilled to Just Jared last night that she plans to record a duet with Demi Lovato! The singer explained, "It’s a song a friend of mine wrote. It’s killer and I’ve been wanting to sing it for a while. It’s very like urban, pop/rock, and we both like that. It’s my normal anthem, shove it in your face type of song.” Seems to be Demi's anthem lately as well, so we know this song is sure to be a hit!

And if you want a glimpse of what a Kelly/Demi collab would be like, just check out their "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" duet from Z100's Jingle Ball last night!

Kelly Clarkson and Demi Lovato duet at Z100 Jingle Ball

Tonight at Z100's Jingle Ball at Madison Square Garden, Kelly Clarkson brought out pal Demi Lovato for a holiday duet of "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas." After the performance, Demi tweeted her excitement, "I. Just sang. With Kelly. Clarkson." Kelly later tweeted to Demi, "girl we have got to sing together again! You have such a powerful and beautiful voice! I love your spirit! Thanks for singing with me tonight."

Watch the duet below:


Credit to krazieekimx0x

Kelly also just recently performed a duet with The Fray's Isaac Slade, read about it HERE.

Port Chuck performs in Hollywood Christmas Parade

Bradford, Scott, Brandon and Steve of General Hospital's Port Chuck performed a rocking rendition of "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" for a taping of the Hollywood Christmas Parade. Watch the performance below:




Credit to MsMaltesefalcon

The parade will air on The Hallmark Channel next Monday!

David Archuleta's "Good Place"/"Let It Be" mash-up

David Archuleta seems to be full of surprises these days! At a special VIP meet & greet for his fans on his My Kind of Christmas Tour, David performed an awesome mash-up of his song "Good Place," a song David says he wrote about his fans, with a cover of The Beatles' "Let It Be." To be able to combine two powerful songs into one beautiful mix shows and true artist that David is. Watch David perform the mash-up below:


Credit to choliepoliex3

You can read my interview with David HERE.

Interview with David Archuleta

David Archuleta is making this Christmas his kind of Christmas, with his My Kind of Christmas Tour and the release of his new Glad Christmas Tidings album with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Among a busy tour schedule, David was awesome enough to take some time to answer this little Q&A about the holidays and how he stays in the Christmas spirit while on tour.

What's been your favorite song to perform on your My Kind of Christmas Tour so far?
I like a lot, but lately I've liked "The First Noel."

How is this tour different from your last Christmas tour?
I've added new Christmas songs to the mix. Trying to have a little more fun this time.

How do you stay in the Christmas spirit while on tour?
It naturally just comes with the time of year for me. All the lights and Christmas music.

Besides the Christmas tour, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir Glad Christmas Tidings CD/DVD you performed on is out this year. If you could describe that experience in one word, what would it be?
Unforgettable.

What are your plans for Christmas this year?
Hopefully spending time with my family.


Big thanks to David for doing this, and good luck on the rest of the tour! 

Crystal Bowersox performs two new songs!

While performing a show in Nashville, Crystal Bowersox sang two brand new songs, "Shine" and "Eventually." Listen to the new songs below:




Credit to hannip1

Preview Big Time Rush's new song "Epic"

Part of Big Time Rush's CD single of "Music Sounds Better With U" in Germany will be a new bonus song titled "Epic." You can get a preview of the song below:

Credit to by bigtimerushnews

Watch Nick Jonas sing his heart out on Last Man Standing

On tonight's Last Man Standing, Nick Jonas guest starred as Ryan, Kristen's baby's father who took off on them for his performing career. Watch this clip of Nick singing his heart out on "O Holy Night" while in church with the Baxter family.


Credit to Prvtlovesjobros

Kris Allen performs "Imagine" at Trevor Project

Last weekend, Kris Allen performed a cover of John Lennon's "Imagine" at the Trevor Project event in Hollywood. Watch the performance below:


Credit to welovereggie

Song Review: David Archuleta - Fa La La La La

One of the many surprises on David Archuleta's My Kind of Christmas tour this year is David's performance of his brand new, never-before-heard holiday tune "Fa La La La La." David describes the song as his way of introducing everyone to his Christmas tradition, with his Latino heritage and partying vibe.

About joining family and friends for the holidays and having a good time, David shows everyone his kind of Christmas when performing this song, even doing some Bachata dancing. "You smile, I light up like a Christmas tree, You laugh, my heart flies like the snow," David sings cheerfully before going into a Spanish chorus repeating 'Feliz Navidad,' wishing it to his family and friends and saying they're a gift to him. David sings the song in half English and half Spanish, showing his Latin side and putting on a fun
                                                                                      performance for the audience.

Watch David perform the song below, and read my full review of his Christmas show in NYC HERE.


Credit to fa3ryg1rl1

Big Time Rush perform at KDWB's Jingle Ball

Big Time Rush performed, a possibly even gave a glimpse of what their Better With U tour will be like,when they performed "Elevate" and "Music Sounds Better With U" at KDWB's Jingle Ball concert this past Sunday. Watch videos of both performances below:




Credit to wisconsinJONASgirls

Interview with Jack and White

Indie pop duo Jack and White have become a popular pairing since their hit debut EP Gemini. Consisting of singer-songwriter Jack Matranga and American Idol's Brooke White, these two mellow musicians put their uniqueness and similar musical vibes together to create fun, free-spirited music. I had the chance to ask these two about their music, their partnership and what's next for this perfect musical match.




How did the two of you meet?
Jack: Brooke and I were set up by a friend to write a song for her solo record. We had met a few months beforehand at Hotel Cafe in Hollywood, but basically just shook hands and said nice to meet ya. The writing day was the first time we had a chance to get to know each other a little. That day we listened to some tunes, shared some stories, and wrote a song we call 'Feathers' that ended up being on the Gemini EP.

Who’s idea was the name Jack and White?
Brooke: Well, I guess I should take responsibility for this one :) It started out simply as our pen name when we were just writing songs before we ever became serious about becoming a duo. Whenever we'd finish a song or a work tape we'd name the mp3 file "jack and white". So one day before our writing session, out of curiosity I thought I'd check godaddy to see if jackandwhite.com was available, and it was, so I bought it... and that was that! haha! Obviously it's a play on "Black and White"... and ya know, it's our names with "and" in the middle :)

What was the process like of making your EP Gemini?
Brooke: Unstoppable. The process couldn't have played out more smoothly, we had pretty much a next to nothing budget, a handful of great songs, a couple talented and generous friends and a fire within us to create a solid record. No A&R guys or fancy studio, but a humble and yet capable bedroom set-up with all the equipment needed and loads of open minded creativity. It was a bunch of laughs, some delicious tacos and tamales and productive focus and free form musical expression that led us to the magic. Our friend Danny, a genius musical engineer was kind enough to record and mix the whole thing for us. Another friend Justin, played the drums and then Jack and I created the rest, track by track. Loved every second of it.

What’s more fun, writing the songs or performing the songs?
Jack: They are both different kinds of fun. Writing is a lotta fun for the right brain and not so much for the left brain. Performing is a lotta fun for both sides.

What inspires both of you to write a song?
Jack: Harmony mainly, but also life experiences. My favorite sound in this world is when different voices are singing together. So incredible. I also like to write down experiences...sometimes try to interpret their meanings, sometimes just observe. Language and communication are very intriguing also. Playing words in different patterns, rhyming words to tell stories, to share experiences. All very inspiring to me.
Brooke: I'm gonna agree with Jack, life experience is where the best songs stem from, whether it be personal or an experience of another.. Often times we don't start with a specific concept in mind, we will get a musical idea... a couple of chords, and the emotion of the music will prompt a lyric and melody simultaneously, and as the song progresses and takes on a life we tend to pin down the experiences that then lend themselves to the lyrics and story. We follow the inspiration to wherever it leads us, while it's our job to write the songs, it sometimes feels like the songs dictate themselves to us, they already know where they want to go... like they've always existed.

What’s your favorite song to perform together?
Brooke: I go through phases, I love the songs that are heavily harmonized, and while "Telephone Games" is one of the hardest songs to pull off vocally, it is the most emotionally charged song we have, and I really dig into singing those heart-achy songs. New tunes are always exciting, "Night After Night" is also a high point in the set for us.
Jack: Usually my hyperactive tendencies take over here and I most enjoy playing whichever song is the newest to the set. Right now this holds true and my favorite song to play is one from our next ep that we're calling "On the Bright Side of the Bad News."

Choose one word that describes your music.
Jack: availableonitunes
Brooke: Haha! Brilliant Jack. Ummm... free-spirited... that's one word-ish.

Now choose one word that describes your partnership.
Brooke: FUN.
Jack: Natural.

What are words you live by?
Jack: That golden rule.
Brooke: Recently read this and loved it "follow your heart but take your brain with you"

Any advice to future songwriters/performers?
Brooke: Write, write, write... the more you write, the better the songs get. Then get out there and play, play play... the more you play the better performer you become. Be patient with yourself, it takes loads of time, experience, rejection and resilience to get from mediocre to Good to GREAT! It's about consistency, its about a lot of good ol' fashioned hard work... and ultimately it's about the love for what you do. You better LOVE it... a lot.

What’s in the works for you two?
Jack: All writing and recording for the rest of the year. Dec 9th we'll start working on our 2nd EP. We've basically been writing here and there ever since we finished recording the Gemini EP, and now we've got 4 new songs ready to track. We've left the calendar empty of shows for the rest of the year so that we can focus and finish up the recording around new years, in hopes of releasing this next ep at the end of January.

Do you have a message to all your fans?
Brooke: We sincerely thank you, we need you, we love you... everything we do, we do it for you :)


Big thanks to Jack and White for this great interview, and look forward to the new music!

Scotty McCreery's Clear As Day has been certified gold!

Announced in a press release today from Mercury Nashville was that Scotty McCreery's Clear As Day has been certified a gold record:

Scotty’s McCreery’s Debut Album, Clear As Day, Is Certified Gold

Album Sits at No. 1 on Billboard Top Country Albums Chart for Fifth Week

NASHVILLE, TN – Scotty McCreery’s debut album, Clear As Day, has been certified gold for sales of more than 500,000. The album currently sits at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, a spot it has held for an impressive five weeks since its Oct. 4 release.

Scotty goes on in the press release to share his excitement thank his fans, “It’s huge! Every artist dreams of a gold album and works hard for it, so it’s a major accomplishment to have your debut album go gold. This is just incredible. I want to thank the fans. This is a testament to how great the fans are.”

Congrats Scotty!

Concert Review: David Archuleta - My Kind of Christmas

There is nothing like David Archuleta's kind of Christmas! After experiencing David's Christmas show Friday night at the Irving Plaza in NYC, all I can say is WOW. Pops songs, Christmas songs, old songs, new songs and even some poetry, performing in English, Spanish, Latin and French... what a show!!

David started the show with a fun, upbeat "Sleigh Ride" that got the crowd pumped and in the holiday spirit. David's first set held a mix of pop and Christmas songs, both classic and original works. His take on holiday tunes like "This Christmas" and "The Christmas Song" were marvelous, one person even saying he sang it better than Nat King Cole himself. As for the pop songs, not only did David sing his new single "Wait," but he also sang a stunning version of the song "Climb Every Mountain," singing it in honor of children and the charity ChildFund he's sponsoring while on tour. David performed the song better than ever, hitting some unbelievable notes and showing his passion for the lyrics.

When David came back out for his second set, he was dressed in a festive, black jacket and scarf, and was strictly in Christmas mode, singing songs like "Pat-a-pan" in French and "Riu Riu Chiu" in Spanish. But that wasn't the only Spanish song of the night when David called kids onto the stage to read them his adorable "My Kind of Christmas" poem and then have a "party" on stage as he sang his new, original song "Fa La La La La." David explained that he was going to introduce everyone to some of his holiday tradition, singing this half English/half Spanish holiday tune as he played maracas and danced some Bachata! That song definitely showcased David's kind of Christmas and was one of the highlights of the night. Toward the end of his set, David took it down with slower ballads like a cover of Amy Grant's "I Need A Silent Night," as well "O Holy Night" and "Silent Night," two songs that David has perfected in the past and didn't cease to amaze once again.

Ending with "Silent Night," it didn't take long after he left the stage for the crowd to start chanting his name, and finally David came back out for one more song, "Little Drummer Boy." This last performance would have gotten a standing ovation if it wasn't already a standing room! Between David's smooth voice and the rock tempo added into the song, this performance was already great, but that was before the ending. David turned around toward the drums, picked up some sticks, then ran back to the mic, raising his sticks in the air and hitting another amazing note before running back to the bass drum and banging on it. This drummer boy left the crowd cheering and me speechless as I couldn't help but think of how far he has come and how much confidence he's gained with his performances.

With a variety of music for everyone, lots of surprises and Christmas spirit throughout the concert, that was by far one of the best shows I've ever seen.

One final thing, the opening act Jeff LeBlanc was awesome! Really laid back, enjoyable songs, and Jeff really knows how to connect with his audience and give them a unique show. You can read my interview with Jeff HERE.

Kelly Clarkson and The Fray duet on "The Christmas Song"

At Chicago's 101.9 FM Miracle on State Street event, Kelly Clarkson teamed up with The Fray's Isaac Slade to duet on "The Christmas Song." Watch a video of the performance below:


Credit to Addicted2KCJG

Michael Bublé, Big Time Rush, Katharine McPhee perform at Christmas in Rockefeller Center special

The Christmas in Rockefeller Center special aired tonight on NBC with holiday performances by Michael Bublé singing "Silver Bells" with Naturally 7 and Big Time Rush singing their original "Beautiful Christmas." Katharine McPhee also took the stage to perform a cover of Christina Aguilera's "Beautiful" to promote her new NBC show Smash, premiering in February. Watch videos of the performances below:


Credit to vtrita


Credit to anguhluhx


Credit to RunnerBeast98