Dear fellow BOTB participants, and other voters...
Please remove my link from your battle posts. I fully agree with the new rule that Stephen has made, regarding carrying a site that has no battle. I have no idea if or when I might return. I haven't even been able to check everyone's battles to vote,
Be well and some day... as it's written... This too shall pass.
Love to all,
Dixie
Friday, October 14, 2016
Friday, August 26, 2016
Lounging ~ In My Room
Hello!
Looks like I'll be off of BOTB for a while longer. Five therapy sessions, and I've only begun my health restoration. It is very challenging. The homework exercises leave me exhausted. I do see a small margin of improvement. This will take more time than I originally thought.
I'm trying to not let this discourage me, though I had no idea how bad things were. Awareness has tempted me to lose hope, but my stubborn nature won't let me. (smile).
Meanwhile, one of my favorite Beach Boy songs... I fell in love with it in high school. Everybody knows that high school brings its on set of frustrations, secrets, and heartaches... right?! Back then I had my own room where I kept my entire life compartmentalized. Ironically I now own the house which includes that very room. Times have changed though, and I find my computer- art studio to be the new room of choice. It has a great big window I can view life through. I keep telling myself, "Come October I'll walk the long pathway to my gazebo." For now I must be content to view it through the window.
I hope summer has brought lots of treasure to each of you. Hard to believe we're on the verge of the Fall season, right?! Okay, here's the tune.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-b5WsEDZvsE
Thursday, July 7, 2016
Result post ~ surprise, it's a tie!
Welcome back! It's Results Day for BOTB. Wow. What a battle it was. I returned midday on 7-7-16, to find Shania Twain leading by one vote!! Yes sir.
Ladies and Gents... we have a tie. Surprisingly my vote tied the battle up.
Ozielzinho & Isael Melo @ 8 votes (including mine.)
Shania Twain @ 8 votes
I leave you good people with a couple of the winners' action songs and videos. ENJOY!
Thanks to everyone for voting here. I hope to return on the 15th. If not, I'll definitely be here for August, (smile).
1 - Victory Theme (Portuguese: Tema da Vitória) is a Brazilian instrumental song composed specially for the broadcast of Formula One by Rede Globo. The music was composed by Eduardo Souto Neto. This cover by Ozielzinho & Isael Melo.
2 - Up next, Shania is working the house!!
Ladies and Gents... we have a tie. Surprisingly my vote tied the battle up.
Ozielzinho & Isael Melo @ 8 votes (including mine.)
Shania Twain @ 8 votes
I leave you good people with a couple of the winners' action songs and videos. ENJOY!
Thanks to everyone for voting here. I hope to return on the 15th. If not, I'll definitely be here for August, (smile).
1 - Victory Theme (Portuguese: Tema da Vitória) is a Brazilian instrumental song composed specially for the broadcast of Formula One by Rede Globo. The music was composed by Eduardo Souto Neto. This cover by Ozielzinho & Isael Melo.
2 - Up next, Shania is working the house!!
Friday, July 1, 2016
August Absence
I apologize to my BOTB co-hearts, and those non participants that vote here. Looks like August will be a repeat of July. My health is still not to the point where I want to research songs for battles. Too much sitting takes a toll on me.
On the health issue, it was discovered that my right carotid artery is blocked. It is inoperable. The miraculous thing is... some other arteries have enlarged, naturally, and some new artery branches have appeared. I call it a gift from God.
I've not decided to leave BOTB, but come September, I may have to make a decision. I'm still in therapy, and hoping for good results... it's a slow battle so far.
Lastly, I'll make every effort to get to other battles and vote. I could not do so for the July 15th battle. Have fun with the month's battles. I hope to get back soon.
~ Dixie
On the health issue, it was discovered that my right carotid artery is blocked. It is inoperable. The miraculous thing is... some other arteries have enlarged, naturally, and some new artery branches have appeared. I call it a gift from God.
I've not decided to leave BOTB, but come September, I may have to make a decision. I'm still in therapy, and hoping for good results... it's a slow battle so far.
Lastly, I'll make every effort to get to other battles and vote. I could not do so for the July 15th battle. Have fun with the month's battles. I hope to get back soon.
~ Dixie
From this Moment On..- Health comes first.
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! aka, "BOTB".
Due to many doctor appointments and therapy, I thought I'd be absent, but wait! I can't resist kicking one in for today. If you want to know my health status, see my main blog post at dcrelief. From this moment on, my health comes first. I think it's all about my attitude too. (Being thankful there's a chance to fully recover from a stroke.)
On with the show...
A big shout out, and thank you to our blog host...Stephen T. McCarthy
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
I wasn't going to post a battle, but it seems I have one that's ready... lucky you!
Today's featured song is "From This Moment On." Written and recorded by Canadian artist, Shania Twain. Yes! I dare to pit her original against Brazilian artists, Isael Melo and Ozielzinho. I love both versions so I have no favorite yet. Good luck with your own choice. I'll be back on July 7th to post results.
1 - Isael Melo and Ozielzinho
2 - Shania Twain
Today's featured song is "From This Moment On." Written and recorded by Canadian artist, Shania Twain. Yes! I dare to pit her original against Brazilian artists, Isael Melo and Ozielzinho. I love both versions so I have no favorite yet. Good luck with your own choice. I'll be back on July 7th to post results.
1 - Isael Melo and Ozielzinho
2 - Shania Twain
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Result Post - Mantovani wins!
Welcome to RESULTS DAY for Battle of the Bands!!
First things first...
A big Thank You to our Event Host, Stephen T. McCarthy!
For my June 15th battle I featured the theme song from the movie, EXODUS. It is also known as "Ari's Theme"... the main character of the movie. It has been covered many times instrumentally and vocally, since it's 1960 creation by Ernest Gold.
Contender, Mantovani caught my interest with his subtle guitar and coronet accompaniment in the cover's transitional phase. However, it fell short of the excitement I remembered from Ferrante & Teicher. As a pre-teen I saw them in concert, and suppose that "newness" will always stay with me. Maybe there's 'something' about seeing artists live?
Per my 6/15 post, I was able to prove that many would make an 'exodus' to a vacation spot. Father's Day was on Sunday (6/19). Almost every text I sent, expressing good wishes (for the day) was responded by... "Thanks, we're at the beach, mountains, lake, etc."
Okay, results here:
Mantovani @ 10 votes
Ferrante & Teicher @ 5 votes, ( including mine).
Our next battle takes place on July 1st! Hope to have you visit, though some of you may make your own EXODUS to a vacation spot, aw heck... maybe even me!
Thank you, everyone for playing my battle. I'm okay with the results, as I realize the power of a full orchestra executing this song. I close out today with the original composition by Ernest Gold.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEPZ1ef2g_A&feature=youtu.be
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Exodus - stage right
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! aka, "BOTB".
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate!
I think Summer officially starts on June 21st. Already, in my neck of the woods, people are making a big Exodus to vacation spots all over. A bit of relaxing, and beautiful scenery does it for me. So with that thought I bring a featured oldie... the Main Theme song from the movie EXODUS.
Exodus came out in 1960. It had a wonderful soundtrack. Composer Ernest Gold won the Academy Award for Best Original Score at the 1960 Oscars. You can hear his original score HERE.
Today's versions are both instrumentals:
1- Mantovani - Wikipedia states: Annunzio Paolo Mantovani (Italian pronunciation: [anˈnuntsjo ˈpaːolo mantoˈvaːni]) (15 November 1905 – 29 March 1980),[1] known as Mantovani, was an Anglo-Italian conductor, composer and light orchestra-styled entertainer with a cascading strings musical signature. The book British Hit Singles & Albums states that he was "Britain's most successful album act before the Beatles...the first act to sell over one million stereo albums and [have] six albums simultaneously in the US Top 30 in 1959".[2]
Mantovani recorded for Decca until the mid-1950s, and then for London Records. He recorded in excess of 50 albums on that label, many of which were Top 40 hits. His single tracks included "The Song from Moulin Rouge", which reached Number One in the UK Singles Chart in 1953;[2] "Cara Mia" (with him and his orchestra backing David Whitfield) in 1954; "Around the World" in 1957; and "Main Theme from Exodus (Ari's Theme) in 1960. In the United States, between 1955 and 1972, he released more than 40 albums with 27 reaching the "Top 40", and 11 in the "Top Ten". His biggest success came with the album Film Encores, which attained Number One in 1957.[4]
2- Ferrante & Teicher - Their cover of Exodus hit US pop chart at number 2 and at number 1 worldwide!Ferrante & Teicher were a duo of American piano players, known for their light arrangements of familiar classical pieces, movie soundtracks, and show tunes. Arthur Ferrante (September 7, 1921, New York City – September 19, 2009), and Louis Teicher (August 24, 1924, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania – August 3, 2008) met while studying at the Juilliard School of Music in New York.[1][2] Musical prodigies, they began performing as a piano duo while still in school. After graduating, they both joined the Juilliard faculty.
In 1947, they launched a full-time concert career, at first playing nightclubs, then quickly moving up to playing classical music with orchestral backing. Steven Tyler of Aerosmith relates the story that in the 1950s the two students practiced in the home of his grandmother Constance Neidhart Tallarico.[3] Between 1950 and 1980, they were a major American easy listening act, and scored four big U.S. hits: "Theme From The Apartment" (Pop #10), "Theme From Exodus" (Pop #2), "Tonight" (Pop #8), and "Midnight Cowboy" (Pop #10).[4] They performed and recorded regularly with pops orchestras popular standards by George Gershwin, Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, Richard Rodgers and others. In 1973, they did the Hollywood Radio Theater theme for the Rod Serling radio drama series, The Zero Hour.[5][6]
Here we go....have fun.... I'll return midnight on the 21st to count votes and post the results.
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate!
I think Summer officially starts on June 21st. Already, in my neck of the woods, people are making a big Exodus to vacation spots all over. A bit of relaxing, and beautiful scenery does it for me. So with that thought I bring a featured oldie... the Main Theme song from the movie EXODUS.
Exodus came out in 1960. It had a wonderful soundtrack. Composer Ernest Gold won the Academy Award for Best Original Score at the 1960 Oscars. You can hear his original score HERE.
Today's versions are both instrumentals:
1- Mantovani - Wikipedia states: Annunzio Paolo Mantovani (Italian pronunciation: [anˈnuntsjo ˈpaːolo mantoˈvaːni]) (15 November 1905 – 29 March 1980),[1] known as Mantovani, was an Anglo-Italian conductor, composer and light orchestra-styled entertainer with a cascading strings musical signature. The book British Hit Singles & Albums states that he was "Britain's most successful album act before the Beatles...the first act to sell over one million stereo albums and [have] six albums simultaneously in the US Top 30 in 1959".[2]
Mantovani recorded for Decca until the mid-1950s, and then for London Records. He recorded in excess of 50 albums on that label, many of which were Top 40 hits. His single tracks included "The Song from Moulin Rouge", which reached Number One in the UK Singles Chart in 1953;[2] "Cara Mia" (with him and his orchestra backing David Whitfield) in 1954; "Around the World" in 1957; and "Main Theme from Exodus (Ari's Theme) in 1960. In the United States, between 1955 and 1972, he released more than 40 albums with 27 reaching the "Top 40", and 11 in the "Top Ten". His biggest success came with the album Film Encores, which attained Number One in 1957.[4]
2- Ferrante & Teicher - Their cover of Exodus hit US pop chart at number 2 and at number 1 worldwide!Ferrante & Teicher were a duo of American piano players, known for their light arrangements of familiar classical pieces, movie soundtracks, and show tunes. Arthur Ferrante (September 7, 1921, New York City – September 19, 2009), and Louis Teicher (August 24, 1924, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania – August 3, 2008) met while studying at the Juilliard School of Music in New York.[1][2] Musical prodigies, they began performing as a piano duo while still in school. After graduating, they both joined the Juilliard faculty.
In 1947, they launched a full-time concert career, at first playing nightclubs, then quickly moving up to playing classical music with orchestral backing. Steven Tyler of Aerosmith relates the story that in the 1950s the two students practiced in the home of his grandmother Constance Neidhart Tallarico.[3] Between 1950 and 1980, they were a major American easy listening act, and scored four big U.S. hits: "Theme From The Apartment" (Pop #10), "Theme From Exodus" (Pop #2), "Tonight" (Pop #8), and "Midnight Cowboy" (Pop #10).[4] They performed and recorded regularly with pops orchestras popular standards by George Gershwin, Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, Richard Rodgers and others. In 1973, they did the Hollywood Radio Theater theme for the Rod Serling radio drama series, The Zero Hour.[5][6]
Here we go....have fun.... I'll return midnight on the 21st to count votes and post the results.
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Results post : The 'Memorex' connection
Welcome back for results day!
First and foremost I'd like to thank Stephen T. McCarthy for keeping the show going. if you'd like to join us, please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box! If not, just stop by and vote in his battles. He'd love it!
Well, this turned out to be a fun battle for me. I'm extremely happy with the participation. You guys rock when it comes to trying new stuff. Thank you for not avoiding me. I'll return to 'normal' for my next battle, (smile).
The song was 'Senbonzakura' which translates into "Thousands of Cherry Blossoms." In the battle you heard the piano using different keys while the Wagakki Band sang, and played musical instruments. You got the LIVE parts but not the Memorex parts! Today I rectify my mistake.
Here's the Final Count:
Now about that Anime part. Remember that's the Japanese equivalent to Western cartoon. The main character of this song's Anime/cartoon is named, Hatsune Miku. She is represented as a 16-year-old girl with long, turquoise pigtails. The Japanese pop phenomenon has also been 16 years old for the last nine years, because Hatsune Miku isn’t a real person, she’s a vocaloid (a created voice and character). She's also a created hologram for her concerts.
Here's a video of Hatsune Miku's 2014 concert in New York, accompanied by a live band. Crazy stuff, huh?
I'm leaving you with a treat by violinist, Lindsey Stirling. In her version she is covering almost all eight (8) voices. I purposely did not use her version, fearing a blow out! I think she's accompanied by other string instruments, and drums. Looks like she's living in her own anime/cartoon.
I had a good time visiting everyone's battle. I'd also thank those of you for stopping here to play. Our next battle is June 15th. Hope to see you then!
First and foremost I'd like to thank Stephen T. McCarthy for keeping the show going. if you'd like to join us, please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box! If not, just stop by and vote in his battles. He'd love it!
Well, this turned out to be a fun battle for me. I'm extremely happy with the participation. You guys rock when it comes to trying new stuff. Thank you for not avoiding me. I'll return to 'normal' for my next battle, (smile).
The song was 'Senbonzakura' which translates into "Thousands of Cherry Blossoms." In the battle you heard the piano using different keys while the Wagakki Band sang, and played musical instruments. You got the LIVE parts but not the Memorex parts! Today I rectify my mistake.
Here's the Final Count:
Marasy @ 7 votes
Wagakki Band @ 10 votes, including mine.
First up... this is a Vocaloid production developed by the Crypton Future Media. A vocaloid uses synthesized sounds for all instruments and voices. It features a humanoid persona voiced by a singing synthesizer application. There are eight (8) vocaloid voices created for this song. A vocaloid uses only synthesized voices for all instrumentation and singing. Please note, this is the song for the anime/cartoon named, Hatsune Miku. Nothing live here!
Now about that Anime part. Remember that's the Japanese equivalent to Western cartoon. The main character of this song's Anime/cartoon is named, Hatsune Miku. She is represented as a 16-year-old girl with long, turquoise pigtails. The Japanese pop phenomenon has also been 16 years old for the last nine years, because Hatsune Miku isn’t a real person, she’s a vocaloid (a created voice and character). She's also a created hologram for her concerts.
Here's a video of Hatsune Miku's 2014 concert in New York, accompanied by a live band. Crazy stuff, huh?
I'm leaving you with a treat by violinist, Lindsey Stirling. In her version she is covering almost all eight (8) voices. I purposely did not use her version, fearing a blow out! I think she's accompanied by other string instruments, and drums. Looks like she's living in her own anime/cartoon.
I had a good time visiting everyone's battle. I'd also thank those of you for stopping here to play. Our next battle is June 15th. Hope to see you then!
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
Battle June 1st ~ Is it live or Memorex?
Welcome to the June 1st, Battle of the Bands. Today's battle is dedicated to our friend, 'Fae,' who is leaving BOTB. I will miss you, but I understand... life happens and things change... but please come back any time you feel so inclined, (smile). God bless you, 'Fae.
The game plan stays the same: We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
The game plan stays the same: We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
On with the show! Some of you may be 'freaked out' by today's battle, but wait! I couldn't resist bringing the insanity.
Today I'm introducing 'Anime with Vocaloid music technology' translated into 'Live vocals with real instruments'.
'Anime' typically refers to cartoon type productions from Japan. The 'Vocaloid' process uses synthesizing technology with specially created vocals of voice actors or singers. To create a song, the user must input the melody and lyrics. A piano roll type interface is used to input the melody, and the lyrics can be entered on each note. The software can change the stress of the pronunciations, add effects such as vibrato, or change the dynamics and tone of the voice. Each Vocaloid is sold as "a singer in a box" designed to act as a replacement for an actual singer. This 'vocaloid' method is very popular in creating "anime' or Eastern cartoons,whereas, most cartoons in the West use a live person to create the voices of characters. (Think: Mel Blanc.)
Today's song choice: 'Senbonzakura' is Japanese Romanji for "Thousands of Cherry Blossoms." It is a 'anime vocaloid' produced by the group, Crypton Future Media. This production has generated over 6 million views, on various videos. It's quite popular. The actual song is a tribute to the WW2 and the 'NOW' modern, antiwar country, Japan. The lyric references to "ICBM" and "Raygun," supposedly bring it into the more modern era.The song talks about 'the 'guillotine,' referring to a type of spy execution group in WW2 that watched their own Japanese people. One of the versions offers an English translation. Lastly, this is not an anti-American song.
The main character of this song's anime is Hatsune Miku, (Japanese: 初音ミク?), sometimes referred to as Miku Hatsune, is a humanoid persona voiced by a singing synthesizer application developed by Crypton Future Media. Hatsune Miku is a 16-year-old girl with long, turquoise pigtails. She uses Yamaha Corporation's Vocaloid 2 and Vocaloid 3 singing synthesizing technologies. She also uses Crypton Future Media's Piapro Studio, a singing synthesizer VSTi Plugin. She was the second Vocaloid sold using the Vocaloid 2 engine, and the first Japanese Vocaloid to use the Japanese version of the Vocaloid 2 engine. Her voice is sampled from Japanese voice actress Saki Fujita. Hatsune Miku has performed at her concerts onstage as an animated projection.[1] The name of the character comes from merging the Japanese words for first (初 hatsu), sound (音 ne) and future (ミク miku[n 1]), thus meaning "the first sound from the future",[2] referring to her position as the first of Crypton's "Character Vocal Series."
Here's a link to the original Anime Vocaloid by Crypton Future Media's Piapro Studio. It is not a contender in this battle. Senbonzakura "One Thousand Cherry Trees"- Hatsune Miku It has an English translation - somewhat different than the version by the Wagakki Band.
Today's challenger's:
1 - Marasy (まらしぃ) is a producer and pianist who is well known in both Nico Nico Douga and YouTube for his piano covers of songs (his most popular reaching over 7,000,000 views), but he also has posted a few original VOCALOID works. This is a piano solo of the song. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuXp0rzcZ6g
2 - Wagakki Band (和楽器バンド wagakki bando?) is a musical group from Japan. The shigin singer Yuko Suzuhana (elected Miss Nico Nama ニコ生 in 2011) and seven musicians fuse Vocaloid songs with wagakki (traditional Japanese musical instruments) and Western rock. They are currentlt touring the United States. Their debut concert in New York received rave reviews. This month they are in Texas. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_xTet06SUo&feature=youtu.be
Saturday, May 21, 2016
Results for May 15th Battle: The water is still deep for both groups!
This was some battle... I wondered which way it would go. I've had a tough time choosing, but finally I stepped into the light. Both groups are my passion. I have CDs I enjoy every week. I almost flipped a coin! Ha, yes, that tough.
You guys really turned this into a tight voting experience. The end result was 'sooo' very close.
Thank you for voting in my battle. The comments were great. I wonder what makes each of you 'tick'... and those comments keep me laughing and pondering what song to hit you with next time. Speaking of NEXT - be here (please) for our next battle on June 1st.
Thank you, Fae, and Stephen T. McCarthy ... our co-hosts for this fun musical event!
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
You guys really turned this into a tight voting experience. The end result was 'sooo' very close.
Thank you for voting in my battle. The comments were great. I wonder what makes each of you 'tick'... and those comments keep me laughing and pondering what song to hit you with next time. Speaking of NEXT - be here (please) for our next battle on June 1st.
Thank you, Fae, and Stephen T. McCarthy ... our co-hosts for this fun musical event!
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
Winner: Four Tops @ 11 votes
Bee Gees @ 10 votes (including mine).
With a battle THIS close, I'm leaving you with a song from each.
I'm dedicating this Four Tops number to me, because I didn't vote for them - sorry guys.
I've chosen a version from 'The Midnight Special- 1975' show-casing the high part sung by Maurice Gibb. Later versions have Barry singing those high notes. Why? You tell me. Maurice always sang the high notes... until Barry's falsetto came along, I guess.
Here we go...
Sunday, May 15, 2016
May 15th - looking for Still Waters that run deep
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! aka, "BOTB".
It's that time again, and I'd like to thank our musical event hosts: Fae and Stephen T. McCarthy.
Today's battle runs from Sunday, May 15th to Saturday, May 21st. I'll be posting the results by noon (EST)on May 21st., hoping that gives enough time for everyone to vote!! Normally we post two versions of the same song, and you vote for the version you like most.
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
Lastly - If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
TODAY, I'm changing up the rules a bit. Yes sir! I'm going with same song titles but completely different songs. You'll still vote for the song you like the most... so here we go!
Personal notes:
My early life was greatly influenced by the Motown sound. I had an aunt who taught me dancing. Put them together and I was one moving, grooving kid! Thus THE FOUR TOPS entered my world, and have remained ever since.
Fast forward to 1978 and a movie titled GREASE came out and I loved the soundtrack. It kicked off what became known as the Disco era, even though the music was simply deemed an interpretation of Rhythm & Blues, by the English group, THE BEE GEES. Once again, I was 'moved' by music, mentally and physically.
Today's song is titled, "Still Waters"... which ironically became known as "Still Waters Run Deep" by both featured groups. Both are considered to be "brother bands," but only one group is made up of true blood-brothers. See you on the 21st!
Today's contestants are:
1- The Four Tops
2- The Bee Gees
Background on the groups and their songs:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nijj2QMZb6Y
It's that time again, and I'd like to thank our musical event hosts: Fae and Stephen T. McCarthy.
Today's battle runs from Sunday, May 15th to Saturday, May 21st. I'll be posting the results by noon (EST)on May 21st., hoping that gives enough time for everyone to vote!! Normally we post two versions of the same song, and you vote for the version you like most.
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
Lastly - If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
TODAY, I'm changing up the rules a bit. Yes sir! I'm going with same song titles but completely different songs. You'll still vote for the song you like the most... so here we go!
Personal notes:
My early life was greatly influenced by the Motown sound. I had an aunt who taught me dancing. Put them together and I was one moving, grooving kid! Thus THE FOUR TOPS entered my world, and have remained ever since.
Fast forward to 1978 and a movie titled GREASE came out and I loved the soundtrack. It kicked off what became known as the Disco era, even though the music was simply deemed an interpretation of Rhythm & Blues, by the English group, THE BEE GEES. Once again, I was 'moved' by music, mentally and physically.
Today's song is titled, "Still Waters"... which ironically became known as "Still Waters Run Deep" by both featured groups. Both are considered to be "brother bands," but only one group is made up of true blood-brothers. See you on the 21st!
Today's contestants are:
1- The Four Tops
2- The Bee Gees
Background on the groups and their songs:
Wiki says: "Still Waters Run Deep is a 1970 album by the American vocal group the Four Tops. Released in March 1970 on the Motown label. Produced by longtime Norman Whitfield associate Frank Wilson, the album returned the Four Tops to the top forty on the album charts where it peaked at number twenty-one on the albums chart yielding the popular Top 30 hits, "Still Water (Love)" (#11), which was co-written by Smokey Robinson and their cover of "It's All in the Game" (#24), which featured rare co-leads by Four Tops members Abdul "Duke" Fakir, Renaldo "Obie" Benson and Lawrence Payton singing alongside prominent lead Levi Stubbs. The album also served as inspiration behind singer Marvin Gaye's What's Going On, the hit title track, which was written by Benson. The song was written by Smokey Robinson and Frank Wilson."
Wiki says: "Still Waters (Run Deep)" is a song by the Bee Gees. It was the third and final single issued from their album, Still Waters, which was released in 1997. It is a pop ballad written by Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb and recorded in the previous year. The recording and producing of the song were assisted by Hugh Padgham. For the third time in a row, the Bee Gees made a United Kingdom Top 20 hit single from the same album, peaking at No. 18 in the UK Singles Chart.[1] It peaked at No. 57 in the United States Billboard Hot 100,[2] their most recent appearance in that chart. The single performed well on continental European charts. On 14 November 1997 they performed the song in Las Vegas for their One Night Only concert to promote the single.[3]"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSi9DJAgarw
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Cheap results but not shabby - results for May 1st BOTB
Welcome to RESULTS DAY for Battle of the Bands!!
There were some pretty interesting and exciting battles this time around. I hope you got the chance to participate. If not, we return on May 15th for another awesome adventure of BOTB! I'll be looking for everyone to join in the fun!
We have two hosts for this musical event. I'd like to thank Fae and Stephen for their examples and guidance. You never know when they'll "tweak" a battle. Our other participants, (listed in my right-hand margin) bring additional surprises! You won't know if you don't go, and have a listen, (smile).
The song I featured was by Cheap Trick : "I Want You to Want Me." It was supposed to be included on their first album, titled, 'Cheap Trick," but did not make the cut. It was a country version. I've researched and discovered that this version was replaced by Cheap Trick after they heard a more upbeat version by a French Group. It is also the version they included on their second album. Therefore the original version is not available.
CMT (Country Music Television) recently aired a "CMT Crossroads" program, featuring Jennifer Nettles with Cheap Trick doing this song. Is it a country version? I don't know. All videos of the performance cannot be played due to Viacom copyright grounds. So I'm still not able to bring a country version, played by Cheap Trick. CMT's program aired March 24th. Jennifer Nettles' new album, "Playing with Fire" should be out soon. This song will be included, but I'm not sure if Cheap Trick will be on her album, with her.
Thank you to everyone who could listen, and take part in my battle. This one brought me a few chuckles. Those who don't care for country music - a special "thanks' for toughing it out! (smile).
The results of this battle...
Dwight Yoakum @ 10 votes, including my vote.
Gretchen Wilson @ 5 votes
There were some pretty interesting and exciting battles this time around. I hope you got the chance to participate. If not, we return on May 15th for another awesome adventure of BOTB! I'll be looking for everyone to join in the fun!
We have two hosts for this musical event. I'd like to thank Fae and Stephen for their examples and guidance. You never know when they'll "tweak" a battle. Our other participants, (listed in my right-hand margin) bring additional surprises! You won't know if you don't go, and have a listen, (smile).
The song I featured was by Cheap Trick : "I Want You to Want Me." It was supposed to be included on their first album, titled, 'Cheap Trick," but did not make the cut. It was a country version. I've researched and discovered that this version was replaced by Cheap Trick after they heard a more upbeat version by a French Group. It is also the version they included on their second album. Therefore the original version is not available.
CMT (Country Music Television) recently aired a "CMT Crossroads" program, featuring Jennifer Nettles with Cheap Trick doing this song. Is it a country version? I don't know. All videos of the performance cannot be played due to Viacom copyright grounds. So I'm still not able to bring a country version, played by Cheap Trick. CMT's program aired March 24th. Jennifer Nettles' new album, "Playing with Fire" should be out soon. This song will be included, but I'm not sure if Cheap Trick will be on her album, with her.
Thank you to everyone who could listen, and take part in my battle. This one brought me a few chuckles. Those who don't care for country music - a special "thanks' for toughing it out! (smile).
The results of this battle...
Dwight Yoakum @ 10 votes, including my vote.
Gretchen Wilson @ 5 votes
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
The next battle takes place on Sunday, May 15th. I hope to see everyone then!!
I'm closing out with the song that was SIDE B of "I Want you to Want Me,"titled, "California Man."
I'm closing out with the song that was SIDE B of "I Want you to Want Me,"titled, "California Man."
Sunday, May 1, 2016
BOTB - One Cheap "Country" Trick
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! aka, "BOTB". This musical event is sponsored by our blog hosts: Fae and Stephen T. McCarthy. Thank you, guys!
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Today's battle runs from May 1st to May 6th. I cut my battle off at midnight on May 6th, posting results on May 7th. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog co- host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Let's go!! Today's battle song: "I Want You to Want Me," by the group, Cheap Trick.
Background noise: This song has a long and intriguing history. It was written by Cheap Trick's guitarist Rick Nielsen and recorded for their 1977 self-titled debut album, but it didn't make the cut. The song was included on their second album In Color, which was released later in 1977. Originally, this version had a medium tempo with a country feel and a honkey tonk piano throughout the song. (I have not been able to locate that particular version.) Later a French cover version ("J'attends Toutes les Nuits") by a fairly obscure French synthpop artist named Niko Flynn, sped up the tempo and put a beat to the song. Suddenly the song was changed from Country to Rock! Lastly, this is one of the few rock songs that starts with the chorus.
In 1978, the band had dropped it from their setlist, but restored it when they toured Japan that year, since Japanese audiences loved the Rock Version of this song. They played it on April 28th and 30th at their famous concerts that took place at the Budokan temple in Tokyo, which was a big deal because many Japanese citizens felt the temple was sacred and not appropriate for rock concerts. The concerts were released as the Live At Budokan album, which captured Cheap Trick's live energy and turned their fortunes around in America, where the album was released in February 1979 and sold over 3 million copies. The extracted "I Want You To Want Me" became their first hit, charting at #7.
Song writer, Rick Nielsen explains his perspective behind the song:
"I just pictured myself in a big, overstuffed chair, and my dad turned on the TV; there were like three stations. I wanted to watch Gabby Hayes – he was a cowboy. I always wanted what wasn’t there, so I think that’s what made me inquisitive throughout my whole life. When you wanted Gabby, Gabby’s not there; when you want your dad, your dad is not there. It was the easiest lyric I could think of. And I wish I were that stupid more often. It’s like Van Morrison – with some of his old songs it didn’t matter what the lyrics meant, it’s how they sounded."
For today's battle I'm featuring two versions with a country-rock flavor. Some of you are not Country fans - tough it out!!
Challengers:
1- Dwight Yokum
2- Gretchen Wilson
Thursday, April 14, 2016
No battle today
I'm sorry I can't be with you today. Hopefully I can return for the May 1st battle. Side effects of new medications are a bit much. I need more time to acclimate/move past side effects.
I hope you have a fun battle. I'll try to get by to vote on everyone's battle!
I hope you have a fun battle. I'll try to get by to vote on everyone's battle!
Thursday, April 7, 2016
Result post for "Sisters" April 1st battle
Welcome to RESULTS DAY for Battle of the Bands!!
I am dc ~ relief, and my battle featured the song, "Sisters" from the 1954 movie, White Christmas. I pitted Rosemary Clooney's version against Peggy Lee's version.
For the first 48 hours, Peggy took the lead and I thought I'd be looking at a shutout or a really bad blowout. The count was 5 - 1 with Peggy in the lead. Suddenly there was a strong turn around, as Rosemary picked up 10 votes. Two last votes came in for Peggy and the count stood at 11 - 7 with Rosemary out front - but not by much!! I enjoyed Peggy's version but my heart kept leaning towards Rosemary. In the end, I voted for her.
Final tally:
Rosemary Clooney @ 12 votes
Peggy Lee @ 7 votes
Thank you, everyone for taking time out to vote. I know many are involved with April's A-Z Challenge... as am I, in minion capacity this year. I can't wait to check other's battle results as there were a few hot ones that gave me a tough time.
Today's result post brings a different video but features Rosemary Clooney singing both parts. This is straight from the movie... and especially sent out to FAE... one of our two event hosts. By the way... A very special thank you to our event hosts:
FAE
and ~
Stephen T. McCarthy
NEXT BATTLE DATE: Friday, April 15th. Hope you'll be here!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDyybi7t634&feature=youtu.be
I am dc ~ relief, and my battle featured the song, "Sisters" from the 1954 movie, White Christmas. I pitted Rosemary Clooney's version against Peggy Lee's version.
For the first 48 hours, Peggy took the lead and I thought I'd be looking at a shutout or a really bad blowout. The count was 5 - 1 with Peggy in the lead. Suddenly there was a strong turn around, as Rosemary picked up 10 votes. Two last votes came in for Peggy and the count stood at 11 - 7 with Rosemary out front - but not by much!! I enjoyed Peggy's version but my heart kept leaning towards Rosemary. In the end, I voted for her.
Final tally:
Rosemary Clooney @ 12 votes
Peggy Lee @ 7 votes
Thank you, everyone for taking time out to vote. I know many are involved with April's A-Z Challenge... as am I, in minion capacity this year. I can't wait to check other's battle results as there were a few hot ones that gave me a tough time.
Today's result post brings a different video but features Rosemary Clooney singing both parts. This is straight from the movie... and especially sent out to FAE... one of our two event hosts. By the way... A very special thank you to our event hosts:
FAE
and ~
Stephen T. McCarthy
NEXT BATTLE DATE: Friday, April 15th. Hope you'll be here!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDyybi7t634&feature=youtu.be
Friday, April 1, 2016
Christmas in April? You must be fooling me!
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! aka, "BOTB".
A big shout out, and thank you to our event hosts:
Fae
I'll be back on the 7th with the results.
A big shout out, and thank you to our event hosts:
Fae
and,
Details, and how we play:
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Today's song: "SISTERS" from the movie, WHITE CHRISTMAS.
For many years I believed Rosemary Clooney and Vera Ellen did the duet, "Sisters,"in the movie, White Christmas. April Fools! My research proved otherwise. Here's the inside scoop from Wikipedia:
"Sisters" is a popular song written by Irving Berlin in 1954, best known from the 1954 movie White Christmas. The movie White Christmas also starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. Both parts were sung by Rosemary Clooney (who served as Vera-Ellen's singing vocal dub for this song, while Trudy Stevens dubbed Vera-Ellen's other songs in the film). Surprisingly Vera Ellen did not sing in the movie or on the soundtrack.
It was not possible to issue an "original soundtrack album" of the film, because Decca Records controlled the soundtrack rights, but Clooney was under exclusive contract with Columbia Records. Consequently each one issued a separate "soundtrack recording": Decca issuing Selections from Irving Berlin's White Christmas, while Columbia issued Irving Berlin's White Christmas. On Decca the song "Sisters" was recorded by Peggy Lee, while the Columbia label featured the song was sung by Rosemary Clooney.
So what we have is Rosemary Clooney singing both parts on Columbia Records, while Peggy Lee sang both parts on Decca Records. Fooled again!
Later Rosemary recorded the song with her real sister, Betty. The Clooney sisters' version, which was also released as a single, was the most popular recording of the song, charting in 1954.
Today's challengers:
1 - Rosemary Clooney with Rosemary Clooney
2 - Peggy Lee with Peggy Lee.
I'll be back on the 7th with the results.
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
#MWA - Music and Words Award
The following is quoted from the blog belonging to, Mr. Shady Del Knight :
"The Music & Words Award" was created by music fan Andrea aka Miss Andi. The purpose is to acknowledge and bring together music-loving bloggers from all over the world, and sharing info about artists and music of all genres." Thank you, Shady!
No one is obligated to accept the MWA, but those who do are asked to follow these five steps:
I love movie soundtracks. I'll feature two that inspired me at a young age. Both are works of Mr. Henry Mancini. Ironically both songs are rather haunting-sounding to me.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oe3VBoE3g4k&feature=youtu.be
Q2: What is your first music-related memory?
My first musical memory was my Mom's musical jewelry box. Children were not allowed to wind the key to play the little song. Every time she'd open it, I'd beg her to wind it up. After her passing in 1997, I received the jewelry box from my Dad. Unfortunately, the mechanism no longer worked. I'm left with a memory of the tune... "Around the World in 80 Days."
Q3: What was the first album you’ve purchased yourself?
My family loved the beach, and this song played quite a bit. I saved my allowance for 'The Drifters'. I was still in elementary school. I called this my "Motown Era", even though I didn't know then what I know now. It was simply a time of great tunes!
Q4: What was the latest music you purchased? (No online streaming or free downloads, I’m talking about cash here!)
There's a question! Offhand, I'd say a 'Johnny Mathis' CD in the last eight months. It replaced an album someone had taken from me many years before. A former babysitter gave it to me the day before she committed suicide. I was eight years old then. I never tire of hearing it.
How funny! My neighbor operates his own construction company. He and I are working out a "swap" for his services on home repairs for my house. (Nothing dirty, though). He looks like a gray-haired Jon Bon Jovi. Whaddaya think? Should I hire him??
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CeX5VEo10c&feature=youtu.be
Nominations - So many have already been named within the BOTB group. So, I ask, "who would like to do this?" I open the floor to any, and all takers. Just leave me an "ACCEPT" notation in your comment. Thank you :)
"The Music & Words Award" was created by music fan Andrea aka Miss Andi. The purpose is to acknowledge and bring together music-loving bloggers from all over the world, and sharing info about artists and music of all genres." Thank you, Shady!
No one is obligated to accept the MWA, but those who do are asked to follow these five steps:
1 -Link back to the person who nominated you .
2- Answer the questions with words AND music
3- Pass the award on to 5 bloggers who inspire you with their posts about music
4- Tag your post with #MWA, for Music&Words Award so that we can all find you down the line. Tags are not my specialty - sorry.
5- Quote these 5 steps and the award icon in your post. You can display the icon on your sidebar as well.
I accepted this award from Stephen T. McCarthy, even though I was later nominated by others. Thank you, Stephen!
I accepted this award from Stephen T. McCarthy, even though I was later nominated by others. Thank you, Stephen!
Here we go with the Q & A:
I use music as a part of me, for reflection, expression, or simply,"a do-nothing day." Wherever I go, music goes. I allow lyrics and melodies to impress me. As an example, I had the urge to "go west, young girl". "The Mamas and the Papas" had a song I loved, and it has stayed with me all these years. Of course I've yet to see California, much less L.A, however, for this post I would like to share "The Beach Boy's" cover of it. A young girl stays East but still loves the western artist(!) Poor baby!
Q1: What does music mean to you?
I use music as a part of me, for reflection, expression, or simply,"a do-nothing day." Wherever I go, music goes. I allow lyrics and melodies to impress me. As an example, I had the urge to "go west, young girl". "The Mamas and the Papas" had a song I loved, and it has stayed with me all these years. Of course I've yet to see California, much less L.A, however, for this post I would like to share "The Beach Boy's" cover of it. A young girl stays East but still loves the western artist(!) Poor baby!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oe3VBoE3g4k&feature=youtu.be
I love movie soundtracks. I'll feature two that inspired me at a young age. Both are works of Mr. Henry Mancini. Ironically both songs are rather haunting-sounding to me.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oe3VBoE3g4k&feature=youtu.be
Q2: What is your first music-related memory?
My first musical memory was my Mom's musical jewelry box. Children were not allowed to wind the key to play the little song. Every time she'd open it, I'd beg her to wind it up. After her passing in 1997, I received the jewelry box from my Dad. Unfortunately, the mechanism no longer worked. I'm left with a memory of the tune... "Around the World in 80 Days."
Q3: What was the first album you’ve purchased yourself?
My family loved the beach, and this song played quite a bit. I saved my allowance for 'The Drifters'. I was still in elementary school. I called this my "Motown Era", even though I didn't know then what I know now. It was simply a time of great tunes!
Q4: What was the latest music you purchased? (No online streaming or free downloads, I’m talking about cash here!)
There's a question! Offhand, I'd say a 'Johnny Mathis' CD in the last eight months. It replaced an album someone had taken from me many years before. A former babysitter gave it to me the day before she committed suicide. I was eight years old then. I never tire of hearing it.
Q5: Which song did you listen to last? (No cheating, come out with the dirty pleasures!)
How funny! My neighbor operates his own construction company. He and I are working out a "swap" for his services on home repairs for my house. (Nothing dirty, though). He looks like a gray-haired Jon Bon Jovi. Whaddaya think? Should I hire him??
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CeX5VEo10c&feature=youtu.be
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32YPozK5Y-0
Nominations - So many have already been named within the BOTB group. So, I ask, "who would like to do this?" I open the floor to any, and all takers. Just leave me an "ACCEPT" notation in your comment. Thank you :)
Monday, March 21, 2016
BOTB: Results of March 15th Battle
But first... I extend a big 'thank you' to our music event hosts:
Fae @ Far away Series
and
Stephen T. McCarthy
I'm pleased with the battle. Many of you stated you liked both versions. I did too, and wasn't sure until the last moment where my vote would land. In the end I went with Ben & Dan's Western because it was a funny version to me. (it also eased that 'blowout' thingy!)
Here's the final vote:
National @ 14 votes
Ben & Dan's Western @ 7 votes
Thanks everyone for listening voting. I enjoyed the comments. I hope too see you back for the next battle - April 1st. Some of you will be doing the A-Z Challenge. Good luck with that.
I'm posting in early due to sporadic Internet issues. My ATT service thinks my Gateway modem is going. They'll be out for repairs some time on Monday.(hooray!)
Today I'll close out playing the version from National.
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
March 15 Battle ~ The Game of Thrones
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! aka, "BOTB".
A big shout out, and thank you to our blog hosts:
Fae @ Far Away Series
Stephen T. McCarthy presents Battle of the Bands
This is how we play:
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote.
Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. Thank you!
Want to join us?
If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Featured song: "The Game of Thrones" and background information:
The music for the fantasy TV series Game of Thrones by the U.S. cable channel HBO is composed by Ramin Djawadi and published by Varèse Sarabande. The soundtrack is instrumental and features one major theme, the Main Title, which accompanies the series' title sequence. The instrumental music by Ramin Djawadi was performed by the Czech Film Orchestra and Choir and recorded at the Rudolfinum concert hall in Prague. The 6th season begins in April.
You can listen to the original here: Game of Thrones original This version is not in today's battle.
Indie rock band The National, with their vocalist Matt Berningera recorded the vocal of "The Rains of Castamere" for Ramin Djawadi's original album. Today we'll hear their version of the main song, "The Game of Thrones".
Today's Battle Contenders:
1- The National is an American indie rock band from Cincinnati, Ohio, formed in 1999. Currently based in Brooklyn, the band consists of Matt Berninger (vocals), Aaron Dessner (guitar, keyboards), Bryce Dessner (guitar), Scott Devendorf (bass) and Bryan Devendorf (drums). Sharon Van Etten on violin.
2- Ben & Dan Productions- Western Theme. Video by Benedikt Mendzigal and Daniel Brauner. Produced by BenDan Productions. Two guys doing it all.
A big shout out, and thank you to our blog hosts:
Fae @ Far Away Series
Stephen T. McCarthy presents Battle of the Bands
This is how we play:
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote.
Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. Thank you!
Want to join us?
If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Featured song: "The Game of Thrones" and background information:
The music for the fantasy TV series Game of Thrones by the U.S. cable channel HBO is composed by Ramin Djawadi and published by Varèse Sarabande. The soundtrack is instrumental and features one major theme, the Main Title, which accompanies the series' title sequence. The instrumental music by Ramin Djawadi was performed by the Czech Film Orchestra and Choir and recorded at the Rudolfinum concert hall in Prague. The 6th season begins in April.
You can listen to the original here: Game of Thrones original This version is not in today's battle.
Indie rock band The National, with their vocalist Matt Berningera recorded the vocal of "The Rains of Castamere" for Ramin Djawadi's original album. Today we'll hear their version of the main song, "The Game of Thrones".
Today's Battle Contenders:
1- The National is an American indie rock band from Cincinnati, Ohio, formed in 1999. Currently based in Brooklyn, the band consists of Matt Berninger (vocals), Aaron Dessner (guitar, keyboards), Bryce Dessner (guitar), Scott Devendorf (bass) and Bryan Devendorf (drums). Sharon Van Etten on violin.
2- Ben & Dan Productions- Western Theme. Video by Benedikt Mendzigal and Daniel Brauner. Produced by BenDan Productions. Two guys doing it all.
Who will you vote for - (1) The National Indie band or (2) Ben&Dan Productions? Let's hear them now... See you on the 21st.
Monday, March 7, 2016
March 1st. Battle Results Day
Welcome to RESULTS DAY for Battle of the Bands!!
I am dc ~ relief, and my battle featured: How Do you Keep the Music Playing?
Tito Nieves with Alexandra Taveras @ 13 votes - The Winners!!!
George Benson + Carmen Bradford @ 9 votes (including mine)
'Mucho-thanks to our event hosts:
Fae
Stephen T. McCarthy
Thank you for voting in my battle. Hope to see everyone at the next battle on Tuesday, March 15th.
It's the month of March and I'm thinking March wind...
Spring is on the way...
Daffodils popping up in my yard, gently swaying in the wind...
hmm, windy city... Chicago!
Oh yes... Chicago... and a nice windy song.
Spring - 'Only the Beginning.'
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Welcome March!!!
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! aka, "BOTB".
A big shout out, and thank you to our blog hosts:
FAE
Stephen T. McCarthy
A big shout out, and thank you to our blog hosts:
FAE
Stephen T. McCarthy
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote.
Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Today's Battle song:
"["How Do You Keep the Music Playing?" is a song composed by Michel Legrand, with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman for the 1982 film Best Friends, where it was introduced by Patti Austin and James Ingram.[1] The Austin/Ingram version became a single in 1983 and reached #45 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #5 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. It was one of three songs with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman that was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song at the 55th Academy Awards.]"
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Intermission & Closing out February...
Today, I bring a close to February, and the LOVE month music. Was it lost love, or did you "agree to disagree?" After all is said and done... I have the "Warmth of the Sun." How about you?
Take it away "Beach Boys"!
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Battle Results - "Reason to Believe"
Welcome back!! Votes are tallied:
Tim Harden @ 11 votes
Damita Jo @ 7 votes (including mine)
A very special thank you to our event hosts:
Stephen T. McCARTHY
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
NEXT BATTLE DATE: March 1st. Hope to see you then!
I'm closing out with Rod Stewart's version of this song.
Tim Harden @ 11 votes
Damita Jo @ 7 votes (including mine)
A very special thank you to our event hosts:
Stephen T. McCARTHY
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
NEXT BATTLE DATE: March 1st. Hope to see you then!
I'm closing out with Rod Stewart's version of this song.
Monday, February 15, 2016
Reason to Believe
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! aka, "BOTB".
First, a big shout out, and thank you to our blog hosts:
FAE
Stephen T. McCarthy
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote.
Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Today's song, "Reason to Believe."
Wiki says: " "Reason to Believe" is a song written, composed, and first recorded by American folk singer Tim Hardin in 1965. The original recording of "Reason to Believe" comes from Hardin's debut album, recorded in 1965 and released on the Verve Records label in 1966 when he was 25." It has since been recorded by artists including Carpenters and Rod Stewart in 1971 and 1993.
Wiki says: Damita Jo DeBlanc (aka Damita Jo), was an American actress, comedian, and lounge music performer. She worked with Ray Charles, Count Basie, and Lionel Hampton. And, in 1963, she released a recording for Mercury Records with Billy Eckstine and the Bobby Tucker Orchestra. She also did a cover of Tim Harden's song, "Reason to Believe," in 1968.
Today's challengers: Tim Hardin vs Damita Jo
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)