Missed the Mark....My Favorite Female Recording Artist

This past Tuesday Kelly Clarkson released her third studio album. Although the cd has not been welcomed with rave reviews, I offer Kelly this blog topic as a reminder that even the most iconic female singers have had a stumble or two in their careers. Kelly, if this album is not the commercial success that you hoped; don't worry; you are simply following in the footsteps of many female recording artist who have fallen victim to the artistically great album, but not too well received publicly. Case in point, Janet Jackson, Madonna, and Mariah Carey, the albums were 2004's Damita Jo, 1992's Erotica, and 2001's Glitter. Lyrically, I think these albums are great; some the production maybe questionable, but I believe these three albums really capture the true character and vulnerabilities vocally of each artist. Unfortunately, circumstance clouded the public's response to each one of these albums. First, in 1993 Madonna released her infamous SEX book. The book was so over the top and lude that it recieved a lot of negative public attention. Consequently her album sales suffered as a result the the backlash to SEX. Given the time frame the album was released, it was probably Madonna's most ardent statement about feminine sexual power. Take these lyrics for example, "Once you put your hand in the flame You can never be the sameThere's a certain satisfaction In a little bit of pain I can see you understand I can tell that you're the same If you're afraid, well rise above I only hurt the ones I love." Like so many female recording artist today, Madonna is placing herself in the driver's seat. She is in control of her sexual wants and desires, not men. Another notable, but widely overlooked track on this album was the song 'Why's it so Hard'. Here we see Madonna giving the world her insights on racism. For example, "What do I have to do to be accepted/What do I have to say/What do I have to do to be respected/How do I have to play/What do I have to look like to feel I'm equal/Where do I have to go/What club do I have to join to prove I'm worthy/Who do I have to know/[Chorus:]I'm telling you brothers, sisters/Why can't we learn to challenge the system/Without living in pain/Brothers, sisters/Why can't we learn to accept that we're different/Before it's too late /Why's it so damn hard / I believe this songs is one of Madonna's best. She makes a poignant and especially relevant political and social statement. In 1992 the exigence for a song such as this one was so needed, given the outcome of the Rodney King Trial, affirmative action cases were taking national precedent, and it was an election year. So, this song came at a time when [we] as Americans were questioning our social institutions, seemingly the fabric that holds us together.

Secondly in 2001, we witnessed a very public Mariah Carey breakdown as she lost a few of her marbles due to overwork and stress. Or at least that is what her publicist would like us [her adoring fans] to believe. Once again the album was great, classic 80s sound, especially when the 80's throwback sound was so popular. Yet, Mariah's venture into 80sdom was not well received. Her public meltdown, in part may have been a consequence of her movie, Glitter's, poor, poor reviews and her bizarre public antics contributed to this albums downfall. Once again, great album, but bad timing. Lyrically the album was not a departure from Maria's typical song arrangements. Her songs usually build to an explosive ending. If that was not a good description, consider these songs from some of her previous work, 'Vision of love, Love takes time, Can't Let Go, Without You, One Sweet Day, Butterfly, My All, and Can't take that Away,' they all have the same melodic sound that intensifies until Mariah hits that glass breaking high note.

Finally, we can't forget Nipplegate. Yes, it was this monumental moment in Superbowl history that re-shaped Janet Jackson's career. Three years ago Janet or should I say Justin revealed Janet's nipple to the world. In the mist of all the Nipplegate controversy, Janet decided it would be a great time to release her next studio album entitled Damita Jo. Hmm...not such a good idea Janet, although the album was good, it didn't get the attention it deserved. Notable tracks include, 'Spending Time with You,' 'Island Life,' 'I Want You,' and 'R&B Junkie'. What was so great about this album is that it was pure Janet. She has always been able to infuse a nice mixture of really pop and r&b into her music. This album was not making any political or social statements like Rhythm Nation, or revealing any personal turmoil like The Velvet Rope, but I do believe it captures Janet's sensual, fun, and passionate side quite well. Unfortunately, Nipplegate overshadowed any potential this album may have had.

Well, Kelly don't fret. If My December doesn't perform as you might have expected, then just remember; the women before you have bounced back from poor album sales and so can you.

Ann Coulter, 2007's Grendel Award Winner

In keeping with the current theme established in the Paris Hilton blog, I must return and try to decipher the irrelevancies of yet another blonde five letter word. Yes, it seems that the she's at it again, that vile, despicable, monster-who likes to call herself Ann Coulter is rearing it's ugly head again. I know; such harsh language, and I am afraid that it still may not be enough to truly capture the essence and lack of character Coulter displays in most interviews and her very desperate ventures into political commentary. In a recent interview on the news program HARDBALL, Coulter received a phone call from Mrs. Edwards, presidential nominee John Edwards wife. She [Mrs. Edwards] candidly requested that Coulter stop making personal attacks against John Edwards and other political candidates. She said "if you want to discuss issues and debate, that is fine, but please refrain from personal attacks." Hmmm...seems like a reasonable request. Seems like the kind of discourse two intelligent people should be able to engage. However, we must remember whom we're dealing with- Ann Coulter. I don't believe she could even begin to know the meaning of the word reasonable. She lives for personal attacks. Everything she writes is an attack. I think she might believe she is very caustic in her delivery. Well, Miss Coulter since you are so fond of fallacious argument tatics-what do you think of mine? You are a the most nasty, venomous, repugnant, being-comparable even to Grendel in the Beowulf tales. In fact I believe you are Grendel, the most loathsome and lowest creature. I support Mrs. Edwards as Beowulf and you are the disgusting Grendel. And, I believe most people know how that battle ended. Oh yeah, get rid of that freaking out-dated cocktail dress. Your attempts to be sexy are about is ridiculous and unnecessary as your political comments.

PARIS HILTON....Who gives a $*%@

Before I begin this post, I must admit that I am giving lip service to the very thing I am about to complain, rant, even bitch about. But, I feel a calling; and maybe some unsuspecting tall blonde will stumble upon my meager blog and have a revelation. Something along these lines is preferable, I am not relevant; I am not important; I have no talent; I must go away....far, far, far away. Oh well, I can dream, right? After a long day of training, yard work, and general housework, I sit down and turn on the television. Hmmm....what station? As I channel surf, I end up on my favorite local station, Channel 10 CBS. Not because they have great programming, but I am a soap opera fan and CBS has the best. Young and the Restless rocks! Okay, back to my rant, it's 6:30 and EXTRA is showing something about Paula Abdul's new reality series. Are they serious? Paula Abdul, a new series, okay that could be a blog to itself. But, I am quickly remember I am sort of a Paula fan, so I keep watching. Next, in there highlights for tomorrow's show. ..."PARIS HILTON, her first interview, what she has to say, etc....." What the $*%@ people? Why, why, why do so many people care about Paris Hilton? Is it her amazing talent? Is it her striking beauty? Is it her quirky catch phrases, "That's Hot!" To be quite honest, and I will take a favorite quote from a friend, she is about as relevant as a bear shitting in the woods. Her success as a pop culture icon, and I use that term very loosely; is quite the enigma. I would love to think of her post prison attention as more of "oh Paris we're laughing at you not with you." Yet, I know she is going to milk this attention for all it's worth and sadly, the mainstream media, will eat it up. I realize we live in somewhat trying times, we are fighting a war, and yes, I can admit; we need distractions. But, Paris Hilton is not a distraction; she's not even interesting. So, on that note I have to end this blog.

Music Picks: Rihanna & Amy Winehouse

As promised, more comments on Rihanna new Cd, Good Girl Gone Bad, and I have to say this one is pure pop bliss. There is some definite growth on this record both lyrically and vocally. Rihanna takes some risks-trying to shed that "good girl" image of the past two years. However, I don't really think the "SOS" video was 'good girl' or "Unfaithful" (a cheating girlfriend) but if she's claiming 'bad girl' status now, more power to you. Okay back to her current cd, I am in love with it. Most of the songs don't require two or three listening before you are hooked. Download - "Don't stop the Music" it will leave you wanting more, more, more...

Last week I discovered Amy Winehouse's first UK release entitled "Frank" and let me just say that it is just as good, if not better than her current US release "Back to Black". Despite what critics may say about her personal blunders, she has such a distinctive sound. Her first release is not as 60's sounding as "Back to Black" it has a more current feel to it. Amy's signature bombastic, raw, in-your-face lyrics are just as poignant as they are on "Back to Black." Download - "Fuck Me Pumps" and "Stronger than Me"

Foment My Soul; Senator Clinton Speaks

Saturday night I had the pleasure to attend a Bush Bashing event. No.. actually it was not all Bush Bashing, it was a Democratic Fundraiser for Presidential hopeful Hilary Clinton. The event was held in Alltell Arena with about 4,000 plus attending. It felt good being around people who supposedly share the same beliefs or vision for our country. I felt great in fact, but I think there was something lacking. Where was the synergy? The crowd seemed very relaxed and even bored at times. I am a native Arkansan; I know we can get excited. Just attend any Razorback football game and you'll see Arkansans show their spirit. Our congressional Representatives and Governor Mike Beebe all were supposed to get the crowed pumped, primed, and ready for Mrs. Clinton. For the most part they did; they each had wonderful things to say about her and their remarks got sufficient responses(cheers and claps) but no pig..soooiee from the crowd. So, what am I getting at here? Well with such a build up, did Clinton deliver? Although I support Hilary and believe she wants to make some significant real needed changes in this country, I can't say that her speech was energizing or inspiring, maybe even forgetful. Okay so lets backup for a second; if I make a claim, I should support it with reason. In the continuing evolution of political candidates, and yes folks evolution does occur, it is not good enough to have an impeccable resume filled with experience and credentials. Of course, those things make a difference, we can see that qualified should really mean "qualified." We have the Bush administration to thank for giving us unqualified people, thus we never want to retreat to placing people in positions because of certain loyalties. Nonetheless, a political candidate and especially a Presidential hopeful, has to be able to sell them self. They are applying for a job, undoubtedly the most important job in our nation. So, what does that mean? First it means they have to inspire people. Political candidates have to make people believe in their convictions. Second, and this goes for so much in life, but really is important for public speaking and writing-know your audience. Political candidates have to know the audience's needs, wants, and desires. On a general level, most politicians know this, but what makes for great speeches, good public oratory is inundated with audience awareness. Critics may say that could get candidates in trouble; they could be said to be flip flopper's or double talkers. Yet, I think the more aware of your audience you are, the better informed your speech will be, and you will not make mistakes such as double talk. It does not mean you are disingenuous, it just means you are not taking you supporters needs for granted. Finally, Senator Clinton's speech was brief; she did hit all the major talking points, but I am compelled to say it lacked the charisma and ardor it really needed.

If I had to grade her speech, and essentially that is what I am doing; I give her a C+/B-. I was good, but could have been better (more Bush Bashing), she did make her positions clear, or as clear as any politician will at this point in the race. I think there were some missed ceremonial opportunities to get the crowed fired up. Once you tap into people's emotion you have really got them sold.