Battle of the Rap Stars

 

My previous blog finished off with a pretty presumptuous (according to popular belief) declaration that Kid Cudi is better than Drake. And although my personal opinion still holds strong in that belief, a rousing debate with a good friend of mine kept the topic on the tip of my brain for the remainder of the day which sparked a little more curiosity in finding an underrated rapper, that again, is better than Drake.

Don't get me wrong, I respect Drake as an artist, and through the debate with my friend, I understand the fact that he is lyrically better throughout his entire albums compared to his highly renown singles. That being said, my quest to find other rappers better than him may derive from the fact that his voice grates on my nerves, or the overwhelming consistency in the music industry (and fans) giving to much credit's due to artists that can and should be outdone by other, less credited artists. Basically, I think Drake and artists alike (Lil' Wayne, Britney Spears, Ke$ha, Bruno Mars, and all the other overplayed, radio hogging, "best rapper/pop star/artist EVER") could spare a little spotlight to the real talents (direct hack at Britney Spears, because I still think she has become a talentless music industry puppet).

Long story short, this is a continuation to my previous blog, except I would like to declare a new opponent for the infamous Aubrey "Drake" Graham. This time around he will be taken down by force of Lasers.. That's right ladies and gents, Lupe Fiasco is better than Drake-- Yeah I said it, and here's why:

Laser's is Lupe Fiasco's 3rd studio album but could be considered his first when compared to the popularity of Drake. His most notable single before releasing this hip hop masterpiece was along the lines of "Kick, Push," which if I were to ask a handful of people have probably only heard a few times, if at all. Not to mention it being popularized for sound, skate/youth culture, and sound-tracked on multiple TV shows, not for the best of his abilities (which leads back into the music industry spoon feeding the public). Anywhoo...

(photo: Lupe Fiasco's Facebook)

Lupe is known for his deep rooted lyrics, focused around the troubles in the world and his positivity shining through in hopes to shed light on, and spark revolution in fighting the worlds injustices. That alone is cause for major industry respect. His song Hurt Me Soul, speaks about respecting women, and initially not respecting the rap game for glamorizing drug dealing. He goes on to flow so effortlessly about all the things in the world that "hurts me soul," like welfare, prostitution and lack of health care. I could claim Lupe victorious in this battle by that song alone, but he's not done there.

His newest album Lasers (which is amazing to say the least) has a song called Word's I Never Said, with a ridiculous flow about the war on terror, budget cuts in education, and how the news is so absurd it may as well be Jersey Shore. The verses he strings together about such heavy topics is his skill--actually caring about these injustices is his passion--Respect!

Although it was argued to me that lyrical ability and freestyling are polar opposites, I still see it as an overall talent to a hip hop artist. My argument is that, with some extra time and a pen I can come up with awesome lyrics, but off the top of my head and just a beat I'd probably freeze or just string words together that rhyme (like most popular rappers that lack the ability to produce a quality freestyle).

That's not Lupe... This guy is the double edged sword in a battle of the rap stars. Here's a freestyle I found of Lupe Fiasco rippin' up the house, on his birthday, nonetheless:



I don't even feel like posting Drake's again.. Too slow, too many pauses to think, too... not as good as Lupe!

Buy Lasers! And while you're at it, check out Food & Liquor and The Cool, cuz' this guy's legit... and better than Drake ;)

Check him out rockin' the stage on Letterman with his new single "The Show Goes On" –




Sorry guys... I obviously don't like Drake. But I hope I introduced you to the overlooked talents of Wasalu Muhammad Jaco, better known as Lupe Fiasco.

Come What May,

Lindsay Taylor

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Lip Syncing, Auto Tune, Songwriters & the Loss of Talent-- But Who's Fault Is It?

I had an entire blog post written and ready to publish when a heated argument sparked in the center of my childhood kitchen. The premise of the argument was, "Does Britney Spears deserve all of her fame and fortune when her latest album had 22 songwriters for 16 tracks and her voice was modified or sharpened through the means of auto tune and studio machines?" Or in other words, has the music industry lost the product it initially set out to play?

Britney Spears new album has
22 songwriters, none of
which were Spears herself
(photo: Dailystab.com)

In the right corner was my oldest brother Nick and myself, with the argument that the Music industry  has sold out in producing albums like Britney Spears' Femme Fatale (where little to no input was actually put in from the so-called 'artist') or Paris Hilton's atrocious monstrosity Paris (who was rumored unable to tour because of her lack in vocal power to resonate through the stage speakers), when it's initial intent was to create a type of art through the talents of actual musicians that can either sing, write music, or play an instrument.

In the left corner was my mother, with the argument that 1. Britney, Paris, and others alike have to have some stroke of talent to make it in the music industry (which was refuted with the fact that in the entertainment business a pretty face goes a long way) and 2. it is the consumers fault for driving the success of the aforementioned 'no talent' artists.

Our Femme Fatale joins
millions in puffing nicotine
(photo: PopularSmokers)

In my mothers first argument she claimed that "millions of people couldn't be wrong" about the actual talent of artists that have the ability to make multiple albums. My brother and I decided to bring up a few stats about certain albums (cough cough, Femme Fatale) that are carried along by their auto tuned studio backing and  22 songwriters for 16 tracks. We also went on to use the analogy that, in fact, "millions of people CAN be wrong" which is quite obviously shown through the success of tobacco companies. It's nearly impossible to not know the dangerous effects of tobacco and nicotine, yet "millions of people" still smoke (as do "millions of people" purchase albums from people that actually lack musical ability). And moving so effortlessly in refuting her second argument, the success of certain artists alongside the popularity of cigarettes is quite possibly driven by the spoon fed propaganda of the music industry and tobacco companies.

Granted, much of this argument, from both corners, is based on opinion of what "good music" is and what makes an artist worthy of record sales, but what it brought to my attention was the question of what drives the success and popularity of music. Is it the talent and creativity behind an artist or is it the music industry's backing of the "sex sells" business model and it's ability to tell the consumer what is good music, or what we want to listen to.

Frank Zappa was an American composer, singer-songwriter, guitarist, record producer and film director for 30 years. Needless to say, he is an icon within the music industry and has a significant opinion when it comes to the direction of the music industry. Although he passed in 1993, he was interviewed on the difference between the old time record producers that trusted in the talent of the groups on whether the album would make money as opposed to new age, young and confident producers that spoon feed the masses on what is a "hit."



the previous video proceeds with Radiohead going on to support Zappa in the idea that it's the Music Industry that points fingers on who to blame for the lack in artistry of today's music, when in reality, it's the industry itself that is producing the "music" from "artists" that need to lip-sync during live performances either because they don't have the vocal talent to perform live or need to save their breath to dance rather than sing. Or how about the idea that radio DJ's used to pick and choose the songs they played based on emotional attachment  to the sounds or lyrics and have now turned into programmed play lists with DJ's discussing the next celebrity scandal during hourly play list breaks. Has the radio even forgotten what music is all about?

I think this is an endless debate worth getting into for anyone that is passionate about music. I want to end this with a comparison of two current rappers. One of which is popular beyond belief for his Lil' Wayne like vocals and songs featuring other major artists like Kanye West and Eminem, who only took a single to hit the top of the charts, Grammy nominations and Grammy performance invites, Juno awards and Rap Recording of the Year versus another rapper that has worked with some of the same artists but hasn't taken home the popularity or award nominations and trophies : Drake vs. Kid Cudi.

Rappers used to be (and in my humble opinion, should be) rated on their lyrical talent and ability to freestyle with ease. According to the following representations of freestyling ability, the success of Drake and Kid Cudi should be reversed as both artists were given the opportunity to show their talents on the same radio show and Kid Cudi clearly wins the freestyle battle...





We are all entitled to our opinions of what good music is, or who should be topping the Billboard charts. What should be noted, through this depiction of the music industry, is whether we are taking the opportunity to formulate our own opinions, or if the music industry is forming them for us. You be the judge, but this is what I think (backed by some respectable opinions and a few statistics).

Come what may,

Lindsay Taylor

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No Shirt, No Shoes, No Problem

Click for photo gallery

Southern California, the country's most sought out region for beautiful weather, beautiful people, and a music festival unlike any other--Coachella. That's right ladies in gentleman, after months of waiting, selling out in less than 3 hours, and road trips from across the country, it's finally here. One of the biggest music festivals with some of the biggest names in music to date, all on a few stages scattered through the Coachella Valley Polo Grounds of Indio, California for 3 long days of camping, dancing, bonding, raising money, art, and building lifelong memories accompanied by an amazing soundtrack. 

Coachella 99' (click for photo gallery)

Coachella started over ten years ago in October of 99', the same year we saw the resurrection and sudden demise of Woodstock that was literally burnt to the ground and never attempted again. About 25,000 music loving people attended in support of headlining acts like Beck, Tool, Morrissey and Rise Against the Machine. 

So what stopped the Coachella Music and Arts Festival from rioting out as the infamous Woodstock 99' incident? 

Death From Above 1979 reunites for 2011
Coachella Festival
(Click for DFA'a Facebook Page)

Coachella is known for a meshing of multiple genres including alternative, indie, techno and electronica, hip hop and R&B and is surrounded by installation art and sculptures that is usually interactive to feed the interest of Polo Ground wanderers in between sets. Losing your shoes, or not wearing any in the first place, are common occurrences and all the time and money road tripping with your best friends and sunscreen in tow tend to make this festivals party-goers good spirited rather than rioting fire-starters. Not to mention the fact that the idea behind the country's largest and fastest growing music and arts festival was sparked by the artists themselves. It was Pearl Jam in November of 93' that decided to perform for thousands of supporters in the desert grounds of Indio, California in protest of Ticketmaster and all the Stadiums it controlled. Coachella Festival is also responsible for reuniting over 15 loved bands with cult followings like Death From Above 1979 for this years Fest. 


Who would riot a festival so strongly supported by it's talent? Yeah--I wouldn't either!

Weren't able to snag a couple tickets during the 3 hour sellout this year? That's ok, catch all the Coachella action on YouTube that has been streaming major performances. Turn up the volume, kick off your shoes and rage with The Black Keys, Mumford and Sons, Duran Duran or Flogging Molly, amongst hundreds of other artists.

Here's a sneak peak to Flogging Molly's set on Friday April, 15th... Less than a month from St. Patrick's Day, I think we can all still appreciate a little Irish pride echoing the SoCal Desert.

And don't worry ladies and gents, this festival is not only an annual event, but it's getting bigger and better every year incorporating a larger variety in music and art. This year's line-up alone offered acts like Wiz Khalifa and Kanye West for the hip hop fans mixed in with Jack's Mannequin and City and Colour for those who like the acoustic and indie sound, and topped off with Neon Trees and DJ Hype  to strap on your dancin' shoes and wave those glow sticks in the air.

Take a ride through Coachella 2011 with Alex Curry and her gang to capture a feel for the Coachella atmosphere, and most likely convince you  to get to the Indio Campgrounds in April of 2012.


Check out Alex's blog "Curry Time" for more on Coachella, music, health, fun... you name it!

Coachella Music and Arts Festival aims to please. Great music, beautiful art, and unforgettable memories... Worth every degree of the Indio desert heat!

Check out the Official Coachella Website for anything and everything Coachella with links to all the artists Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube pages. And get ready, Coachella 2012 is only a year away.

[This just in, Coachella 2012 will be held on 2 weekends!]

Come what may,

Lindsay Taylor

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Information for this article can be found here and here.. and through some awesome personal Coachella experience! 

Educational Octaves

Photo: calstatela.edu

California is a state of great diversity. It’s also a state that has struggled to produce a strong public education system for many years...

I currently hang my hat in America’s most sought out city—San Diego. However, I hail from the small streets of Moreno Valley, California, a city with a population in the 200 thousands but an appeal of small town suburbs where everyone knows everyone and Starbucks is a brand new venture.

I grew up with Music as a major influence in my life. My uncle, brother and myself dabble in instruments and vinyl is a collecting habit of the Young family. My brother and I joined the band programs as young as elementary school and found it to be the link behind our social world, passion, creative thinking, and dedication. That being said, I wanted to take a closer look into the idea that Music has the potential to increase education and enhance learning.  

Karl Glenn claimed music as one of the great art forms--one in which could mature creativity and enhance education (Glenn, 1992). 

Just listening to music has the capability to enhance spatial task performance, design and procedure, and the study of music can produce higher creative and learning functions (Shaw, Rauscher, & Ky, 1994).

Moreno Valley High School has the lowest academic performances of individuals (API) within Moreno Valley Unified School District.

Education Statistics of California Data Set

As an alumnus from Moreno Valley High School, I also know that our music program was folded in 2004 due to budget cuts. Is there a direct correlation between the two? Well, looking at a comparison to MVHS’s rival high school Valley View, which to this day has a growing music program that produces CDs for a changing band (as students graduate the band changes) by the name of The Raspberry Blues, we can see the API for VVHS is much higher than that of MVHS.

Education Statistics of California Data Set

Continuing the comparison of Moreno Valley High and Valley View High, we can see that with a statewide poll of educational ranking, Valley View ranks far higher than that of Moreno Valley.

Education Statistics of California Data Set

Although the data is not with direct evaluation of a music program, other studies have shown that the inclusion of a music curriculum can increase the way in which teens approach their education. According to Cohen-Taylor, when teachers include popular song lyrics into their reading materials, students approached other printed materials in a positive manner; whereas, students, without a learning through lyrics curriculum approached other reading materials with apathy. Furthermore, a study by McTeer and Bailey found that students improved their attitude towards history and subject matter when correlated with popular music (Eady, & Wilson, 2007).

Needless to say, I am an advocate of combining educational efforts with the inspiration of music. The idea that creativity alone can be increased, just through a set of headphones and a musician from one of the greatest art forms, inclines me to believe that success is driven through great music. Many, if not all career paths have some sort of creative influence to be the best, most cutting edge and influential within a respective field of work. With music comes creativity… why question that?

A song that has had great influence on my life…

The Spill Canvas - Appreciation and the Bomb

If there's one thing I've learned // it's that we never feel the heat until we get burned // but we try so hard not to die // sometimes we forget to appreciate life 

Come what may,

Lindsay Taylor 

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That data from this blog can be found in the Education Statistics of California and the following cited works:

Eady, I.L., & Wilson, J.D. (2007). Restructuring music's role in the middle school curriculum. College Student Journal

Glenn, K. (1992). The benefits of music education--now and in the future. NASSP Bulletin, 76(544), 1-4.

Shaw, G.L., Rauscher, F.H., & Ky, K.N. (1994). Music and spatial task performance: a casual relationship. Proceedings of the American psychological association 102nd annual convention (pp. 365-611). Los Angeles: http://www.burchschool.com/musicstf.html.

The Sounds of Savior

Photo: Craig Cloutier – Creative Commons License

Some people would call me crazy to say that music has saved my life. I mean, I can barely play the guitar and I can only dream to write a song someone might play someday…but when someone writes and performs the words I can’t muster up the courage to say myself, it gives me this rekindled faith that we are not alone in this world. A hope that no matter how much this life takes from me, and so far it has taken just about everything, I will survive through the spoken motivation accompanied by a guitar.

That being said I wanted to take a minute to highlight how music really can save lives. 
 
Catastrophe has stricken our universe with overwhelming strife as of late, most notably the 8.9 earthquake (among many others to follow suit) that created a devastating tsunami washing out the tiny country of Japan. People from around the world are directly and indirectly affected by this tragedy and have sprung up many ways to give to the Japan Relief Fund. 

We've all heard how The American Red Cross steps up in time of need with their texting campaign amongst many others but did you know how the music industry is giving back? 

Universal Music Group has released a 38 song album, available on iTunes, for an astronomically low price of $9.99 to aid in Japan Relief. The album consists of major recording artists as John Lennon, U2, Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Adele and Kings of Leon. All of the songs chosen have very positive and uplifting lyrics to not only raise funds but lift spirits in this time of tragedy. 

Other bands not involved with the "Songs for Japan" have conjured up other ways to show their support for the rebuilding of a country and it's people. Blink 182 and New Found Glory, both known for their "crappy punk rock" styles and cult followings have designed t-shirts for sale through many outlets, with all proceeds going to the Japan Relief Fund. 

Photo: Bompa.com Blink 182 

Photo: newfoundglorystuff.com

One of my favorite bands Paramore has gotten very creative in their Relief Fund. For the past couple weeks they have hosted an online "yard sale," where fans can place bids on clothing, accessories, memorabilia, etc. previously owned by the members of Paramore. The highest bidder upon auction completion gets the item and all proceeds are sent to a Japan relief fund. Some items have sold for thousands of dollars. Not only is this creative at best, but has been very successful and has given fans, like myself, the opportunity to own things once used/worn by their idols.

Speaking of Paramore, Gwen Stefani of No Doubt, who had Paramore as an opening act on their last tour donated 1 million dollars to Save The Children to directly benefit the Japanese children in need. She states, "I've been inspired by Japan for many years and have a true love, appreciation and respect for the Japanese people and their culture. The disaster in Japan is beyond heartbreaking and I want to do anything I can to help. I would never be able to make a gesture like this without the love and support of all the fans over all these years."

Lyrics have the ability to speak the words in which we cannot say. Often times, as a listener, we feel like the musicians really connect with our every day lives. In personal experience I have found an hour with a set of headphones to be the most comforting time in my days. Certain songs have changed my outlook on life and really pulled me out of bed from situations that have broken my spirit. So in a sense, Music really has saved my life. A warming sensation comes over me when I read of musicians not only using their words through song to influence our daily lives, but their prominence and financial backing to literally 'save lives.' 

Check out these other ways you can donate to Japan Relief... Times are only getting harder in the far East!

“When things are bad, we take comfort in the thought that they could always be worse. And when they are, we find hope in the thought that things are so bad they have to get better.”

• The American Red Cross has set up a special designation for disaster relief efforts in Japan. To donate, click here, or text REDCROSS to 90999 to instantly donate $10.
• International Medical Corps says it is putting together relief teams and supplies to aid Japan “and other affected countries.” Donate here. 
• GlobalGiving’s Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief Fund. 
•  World Vision’s Disaster Response Fund. 
• Click here to donate to AmeriCares’ emergency relief response. 
• Save the Children’s Japan Earthquake Tsunami Children in Emergency Fund. 

Also, if you are personally affected by this tragedy, Google is here to help! Google's Crisis Response Center / Person Finder.

Come what may,

Lindsay Taylor

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