Some of the American Idols Released Music Videos

Naturally the winner and runner up released music videos for their singles. I get that, because their singles are popular I guess (I heard "I Love You This Big" on the radio the other day and asked for it to be turned off, please). Anywhoo, Scotty da Body, Flute Extraordinaire and Lauren Alaina with her Sister/Mom made some musical videos. Woo hoo. Then my personal favorite, Miss Perfect Pia has a video for her new single. Does anybody still like her?

Here's the videos...
Pia Toscano's "This Time"

So there's that... I'm not sure if she (or to be correct the person who wrote the song) understands correct grammar. "My bags is packed at the back of your door?" As a future English teacher, I'm disappointed. Not to mention: Pia has way too much hair (just get a hair cut already) and for most of this video she looks likes she's posing for a senior portrait.
Overall, terrible music video. Her voice sounded okay, but I think we all know how much I dislike her.

The Runner Up: Lauren Alaina's "Like My Sister/Mom Does" oops, I mean "Like My Mother Does"

There is so much to make fun of in this music video! Seriously, she made it way too easy. First: Lauren, do you think your orange skin color looks natural? Do you think your two-toned, new extension hair looks natural? (It doesn't.) I love how they have her standing in the kitchen and sitting on the couch. If that's what her Sister/Mom does, it shouldn't be hard to be like her. Oh, and she wants to bow her head and pray (I'm so glad my mom doesn't do that).
Does anyone else think they've given Miss Lauren way too much cleavage for a 16 year old? Because I sure do. I also loved that tear she added for POW when looking at a family photo album.
PS: Lauren's Sister/Mom was just glad she had a cameo.

Finally, the winner, Scotty McCreery's "I Love You This Big"

It was really tough for me, but I managed to push past the cheesy opening line "I know I'm still young" (the first time I tried to watch it, I turned it off right away). I also just love how Scotty wants to remind people that he loves Jesus a lot by wearing that cross necklace all the time. There were way too many close ups of his face, and it started to freak me out.
Look, I just want everybody to know something: Whatever American Idol producer that told Scotty to stop holding the microphone like a flute should be fired immediately (if not something more drastic). He is Scotty da Body, Flute Extraordinaire for a reason.
Before I go, I should mention just how much I dislike this video and the song. It was hard just to watch it.
PS: Does anybody else find it hard to believe that deep voice comes from him? When we saw Scotty in concert, I realized it's completely real, but on a video it seems fake.

Okay, there you go Idol fans. Enjoy.

When In Doubt...Mumford & Sons

I find that this has become my motto in life. When I can't think of anything to write about, or whatever, I just resort to Mumford & Sons. I find that this is perfectly reasonable.

So here I have some videos of songs that you may or may not have heard before (because they aren't on their debut album). Enjoy, folks!

"Lover of the Light"

"Hopeless Wanderer"

"She Said Yes" (In the future, I hope this is the song that the band will spontaneously play after Country Winston proposes to me and I say yes)

"Broken Crown"

That's all I've got for now. Soak in the Mum.

You Want MORE Mumford & Sons?!

Luckily, I have that for you. At the time I am writing this, I am watching tons of Mumford & Sons videos on the YouTube, and since I couldn't think of another post idea for today, you will be receiving more Mumford & Sons videos.
We have interviews, songs (I did ones that weren't from "Sigh No More"), and all of the Country Winston you could ever dream of having (PS: watching these videos has helped to seal my love for this man). Let's get started.

Winston and Ben talk with Billboard

Holy crap I love Winston.
"If Carrie Underwood was four different people, all of different race, and uh wasn't as country, and was British then that's kind of, maybe..."
Haha classic.

Singing "Sister" at Rolling Stone. Do you hear how deep Ted Dwane's voice is? Holy shit.

"Hold On To What You Believe" (This isn't a live version or anything, but this song was only released on the British deluxe version, so despite my attempts to change countries and buy it on iTunes, most of us won't have this song. But this song is beautiful.)

"Below My Feet" (This was my favorite of the new songs they performed. This is a live sound recording, but not video.)

"Nothing is Written" (This has a bunch of pictures that I want. Mostly to look at Winston.)

Interview with all four of them on Absolute Radio (Kind of long, but totally worth it. Then again, anything concerning Mumford & Sons is worth it.)

Random thoughts about the video: -I love that Ted's nickname is T-Bear. -Winston's laugh is bizarre but cute. -Marcus' laugh is hilarious, and I immediately thought of Ricky Gervais (like the radio guy said). -I love it when Winnie says, "Yeah, we're really scene-y. We're really cliquey... You gotta be good looking." -Marcus says, "We bring a truck of soil with us wherever we go." These guys are too frickin' funny! -I'm completely smitten with Winston.

Okay, that post was longer than I intended, so I apologize. But, as I said, you can never have too much Mumford.
Cheerio!

More New Music: In the Thread of Mumford & Sons

Hello, readers. Since my last New Music post went over so well, I have decided to do it again. (I will try to make this happen often because I know how much people love finding new music.)

Today's New Music is in the thread of Mumford & Sons, hence the title. When I went to their amazing concert a few weeks ago (which remains as the greatest night ever), there were two fantastic bands that open for them. I know have mentioned them before, but I want this to be a loud and clear message to the world. These next two performers that I am about to introduce you to are so flipping awesome, your brain might explode (wear a helmet). Ready for brain explosion? Let's do this.

Matthew and the Atlas

Matthew (bottom left) kind of looks like Mitchell from "Modern Family."

This was the first band to open for Mumford & Sons (the one which my mom missed because she almost passed out). So, hearing them live was pretty darn cool because they are full of greatness, but it's even more awesome to have their music for yourself, which I have. Anyway, this band was started by lead singer Matthew Hegarty, who is British, and he also plays the banjo and guitar. He put together this awesome band, and they are awesome. There is a female singer who beautifully harmonizes with Matthew, named Lindsay West, who also plays the piano.  The other band members are: Dave Millar - accordian, vocals, Thomas Field - drums, and Harrison Cargill - banjo, vocals.
So now that you guys have been formally introduced, onto the music. Matthew's voice is stunning, and like I already mentioned, Lindsay's voice sounds beautiful with his, a perfect mix of high and low. How the tones of their voices work with the music they make is just wonderful. The lyrics to their songs are so powerful and meaningful, they take my breath away. Like Mumford & His Sons, I would classify Matthew and his Atlas as Indie Folk. The banjo and piano adds to the folksy sound, without sounding too country. They are just the right amounts of rock, folk, and bluegrass. This band will blow your mind!!
Songs to Check Out: I Will Remain (my favorite), I Followed Fires, Within the Rose

Video Time!
"Within the Rose"

"I Will Remain" (So, according to most websites I'm singing the lyrics wrong, but I think I'm singing them right. Anyway, my favorite line is: "To you, is it a failure, to forget the ones you once held dear, I tried to remember but my mind is no longer clear. Ooh ooh ooh, you recognize me? I've fallen from, far from the tree." Awesome, awesome song.)

Next up is a Hometown Hero,
Nathaniel Rateliff

Before we get into the awesomeness that is his music, funny story: I was listening to him the other day and my mom said, "Oh, is this Daniel Radcliff?" And I said, "No, Mom, this isn't Harry Potter." I am hilarious.
Anyway, as I mentioned, Nathaniel is a hometown hero, because he is from Colorado (represent). So Nathaniel's voice is amazing. As the guys next to me at the concert said, "Sometimes he sounds like he's singing a foreign language, but he isn't. But his raspy voice is so amazing, and that makes his music great." I know that doesn't sound like the best compliment (it is one, I swear), but it's true. Rateliff's voice is so unique and raspy, that sometimes you can't completely understand what he's saying, but that adds to the mystery of his music. His lyrics are so beautiful and relatable, that I sometimes I have a hard time stopping myself from listening to the song over and over again just to take in the words (it is also like this with the former band). Rateliff's voice sounds beautiful with the instruments and how he composes the music and lyrics add to the drama. His music is also in the folksy thread, but has a little more rock than bluegrass. Rateliff often performs with The Fairchildren, and his voice sounds amazing when accompanied by the female singer of that band. Beautiful.
Songs to Check Out: Shroud (my favorite), Early Spring Till, Laughing

Video Time!
"Shroud" (My favorite line is: "Well don't blow my cover, it's taken years to make a beautiful shroud." Stunning, it really is.)

"Early Spring Till"

Okay guys, I have introduced you to these amazing, deserving, and probably struggling bands. Whether or not you loved these guys (although I'm 100% positive that you did), if you want their music, PLEASE buy it on iTunes or through their websites. Matthew and the Atlas and Nathaniel Rateliff are small, amazing musicians who deserve to make money off of the music they have worked so hard to put out there. Support small musicians, buy their music.
Matthew and the Atlas (their website isn't yet up, but it links to other stuff, and you can get a free track)
Nathaniel Rateliff

Enjoy, world!

The Church of Mumford: Meet the Prophets

As with any religion, there are prophets who deliver the message of divinity and such through stories and books. With the Church of Mumford, the prophets are singers who deliver the message of awesomeness through music and being awesome. As I'm sure you know (assuming you are a dedicated follower of the Church of Mumford), the main doctrines of the Church of Mumford are the album "Sigh No More" and the concept of The Holy Mum-Trinity: The Mumford, The Sons, and The Holy Banjo.

After that quick introduction, let's move onto the prophets (whom I've listed in alphabetical order, based on first name):

Ben Lovett:
Ah yes, the prophet that plays the accordion and piano, as well as lends his vocals to the harmonies. This guy is awesome, and I love seeing him get into his music when he starts stomping his feet as he is hunched over his piano. Ben truly is a great musician, and I read in a wonderful article (that my dear friend Rocco showed me, which I will link to at the end of this post) that he and Marcus have been playing together since "the age of about 12." Wow! They truly go way back. Hence, prophets. Also, Lovett is a really rad last name.

Let the sound of my accordion woo into the Church of Mumford.

Marcus Mumford
As his name suggests, he is the First Founding Father/Prophet of the Church of Mumford. Marcus lends his angelic voice and multi-instrument talent to this band. He plays the guitar, the drums, and sometimes plays the kickdrum while playing the guitar and singing. Is it any surprise that he is the lead prophet? (Answer: No.) I would like to personally thank Marcus for putting this band together and forever changing my life. Marcus, if you are reading this: yes, I would love to come to your show and join your band as VIMember. Because I can't sing or play an instrument (sorry, guys, the banjo just wasn't working out for me, I'm too busy). Here's our Marcus Mumford.

Mandolins are cool again. You're welcome, world.

Ted Dwane
This guy...he is crazy. He also lends his vocals to backup Marcus as well as strumming away on his stand up bass. Now, when we say Mumford & His Sons play in concert, I couldn't stop watching Ted. He gets so into his music, and closes his eyes and shakes his head as he hits the strings and sings along, it is amusing and magical all at once. Watch a video of them performing and pay attention to Ted (I'll post one at the end). He's also a pretty laid back guy. Here is our Third Prophet!

Our music even captivates me.

And, last but not least, my favorite of The Sons and new Future Fiance (plus, we're closer in age than PMcD and I are)...
"Country" Winston Marshall
Ah, yes. My darling Winnie. Look, if I haven't made it clear, I'm pretty much in love with this guy. He is awesome. Winston not only plays the banjo (which is much harder than it looks), but he also sings with his deep, strong voice and writes songs for the band, such as "Winter Winds." Every time I find something else new about him, I fall even more in love. He is super funny and talented, and, to make everything even more awesome, he's British (they all are, though). Now I will show a gallery of Winston photos. You're welcome.

Rachel, I love you. (I know, Winston, I know.)

That's my Church of Mumford post. Enjoy learning about the Prophets, and here are some other fun things for you:
Interview with Marcus and Win
Marcus Mumford Interview
"Dust Bowl Dance" Live!

Highlights from Bonnaroo (I'm not sure how this doesn't include every song)

PS: As you're reading this, I'm probably on a plane to Portland, Oregon or already there. My mother and I are going to an American Idol concert, so there will be quite a few pre-posted blogs. But, I'm sure you'll love them anyway (at least, you should). I'll do a post about the concert and something else, if I find time. Stay tuned!

Paris Hilton Wears Something Weird...and Mumford & Sons

Hello, readers. I apologize for my absence in the past few days (I can only imagine how tough it has been on you), so I'm here for a quick post.

Paris Hilton Wears Something Weird
This really shouldn't be shocking to anyone, but it looks like something she stole from a young girl who competes in child pageants. If you don't know what I'm talking about, then check out the show Toddlers & Tiaras (then thank your mom for not putting through that hell as a child).

Cupcake hands!

She just makes it way too easy to make fun of her.

...and Mumford & Sons
To answer your question, yes, I am still obsessed with them, and yes, I am still in love with Country Winston. This band is phenomenal, and every time I find people who are fans (this happened yesterday! It was exciting), they instantly become my best friends. Anywho, here's a video for your enjoyment.

Love this song! Love the band! Love all things British! (I'm most likely going to spend a summer in England during my college experience. Maybe I'll meet Prince Harry and Mumford & Sons when I'm there, that would be the most epic trip ever.)

PS: I've decided that I will start doing recaps of "America's Got Talent" this coming week. So stay tuned for that!

Have You Been Indoctrinated to the Church of Mumford?

Because I sure have. Last night, I attended one of their sermons (concerts), and I can know proudly call myself a follower of the Doctrine of Mumford (huge, giant, mega, obsessed Mumford & Sons fan). I have found the light, in the Holy Trinity: The Mumford, The Sons, and the Holy Banjo.
I hope that one day you will also see the light. To help you out, here are some fantastic songs by this angelic band.
"Timshel"

"Winter Winds"

"Little Lion Man"

"Roll Away Your Stone"

"Liar"

To stay healthy, have a daily dose of Mumford & Sons. I'm glad I could help you in this. Enjoy!

PS: Tonight I will relive my crazy concert experience from last night, via blog post. So stay tuned! More Mumford is headed your way!

Katy Perry's Parody

You know that one chick, Katy Perry? You may have heard of her, huge pop star. Personally, I'm kind of sick of her music (in Mexico, one of the only three American songs they played on the radio was "Fireworks," and now I feel like my brain will explode if I hear it again), but I love parodies.

This new, hilarious video is called "Last Friday Night" where she mocks a ton of crap. '80s movies, teenagers, stupid parties, Facebook, Rebecca Black (she's actually in this video), Glee (Kevin McHale and Darren Criss have cameos), and other funny stuff are mocked in her video. Watch it, it is quite hilarious.
Watch it here!

Pretty funny, right?

Also, since Lily Allen reminds me of Katy Perry (they kind of look alike to me, and both of them also kind of resemble Zooey Deschanel, and my hair dresser looks similar to all of them), here's some news: She got married! And she's pregnant!
Congrats, Lily. It's like in The Office, when you got pregnant before you were married.
Here's a picture of Lily Allen and her husband Sam Cooper (yep, I have no clue who that is either, but apparently his dad played the ukelele at the wedding).

Guess whose dress this resmbles? (Kate Middleton's)

Congrats to the happy couple!