Alicia Keys’ new music video for “Girl On Fire” is an ode to super mom. You know, the moms who work so damn hard to keep everything together but never let the frenzy show on their face. The positive concept of the song and music video is a refuge from the club bangers on the radio and much more inspirational than tracks about hooking up, breaking up and smoking up.
This version also erases Nick Minaj’s verse, which seems to make the song flow better, plus I don’t know where Minaj would fit in the video.
Watch it here:
“Rum and Raybans” – Sean Kingston ft. Cher Lloyd
One again, Sean Kingston has a hit on his hands with “Rum and Raybans,” the new single off his latest album Back 2 Life. The premise of the song is simple: All Mr. Kingston needs to have fun on the dance floor is a glass of rum in his hand and Raybans on his face (you know, to protect his eyes from all the bright lights and such). And all I need to have fun is this song pounding on the speakers…and some rum would be nice too. There’s a ton of synth, a robot voice, hard beat, Kingston’s signature reggae type vocals, and the one and only Cher Lloyd lending her sauciness to the mix. If you’re looking for some new party tracks I definitely recommend this one.
“How” – Regina Spektor
Regina Spektor gets dark and emotional in her new single “How.” The somber track is about breaking up and wondering how she can ever live without her ex-beau. It’s all quite heartbreaking and Spektor’s powerful pipes will give you chills. The beauty of the song shines through the video, which is shot with a combination of animation and live action. Directed by Margo Weathers, Spektor is impeccably styled with quirky violin-inspired makeup, feathers, and butterfly wings. Spektor’s new album What We Saw From the Cheap Seats is out now.
“The Boys” – Nicki Minaj ft. Cassie
All righty people. If you’re at work right now I would suggest turning your laptop away so your boss can’t see you computer screen because things are about to get pretty raunchy. But what else can you expect from a collaboration with bombshells Nicki Minaj and Cassie right? The track itself is catchy as hell alternating between fast rapping from Nicki and then slowing it down with an acoustic guitar and slow singing from Cassie. The ladies strut their stuff in leotards, hang out in a very pink barbershop, and pretty much just remind everyone that they’re sexy and they know it. Then things get a little weird and Nicki kills everyone. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed.
“F**kin’ Problem” – A$AP Rocky ft. Drake, 2 Chainz, Kendrick Lamar Read more…
According to Miley Cyrus, Nick Jonas’ song “Wedding Bells,” which he performs with his brothers, is all about her. During an interview with Ryan Seacrest, she said she thinks it’s “pretty blatant” that she’s the subject of the song, which is all about wanting to “try one last time” with a past love and not wanting to “hear the wedding bells chime.”
Miley is currently engaged to The Hunger Games’ Liam Hemsworth, however she dated Nick when they were both in Disney. Online sleuths are already touting the anniversary mentioned in Nick’s song (June 11) is the exact same day Miley describes meeting her first love in her autobiography, Miles to Go.
She told Ryan she has no hard feelings: ”Everyone has to write songs that are about things that they felt and he even introduced that this isn’t the way that I am,” she said. “So, you can’t ever hate on someone for writing about something you’ve been through. I think that you kind of get a fair warning when you date an artist and someone that’s a writer—when you’re going through things that you’re going to end up hearing about it on the radio.”
It must be bittersweet to date a musician like Nick Jonas or Taylor Swift (who also talks about past relationships in her songs), but ultimately, these personal experiences make their songs so relatable. At the same time, it might be a bit presumptuous for Miley to assume it’s all about her. Still, at least they were positive words right? A song called “Wedding Bells” is a lot more flattering than a song called “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together!”
“Wedding Bells”
Having already taken Europe by storm, Ed continues his conquest to take over the world on the Ellen show. He’s quickly sweeping North America off it’s feet and playing her show is a major benchmark for any artist. In this interview Caity talks to Ed about his cats, being on the show and British soap operas.
Well, grab a box of tissues and your wallet because this video will inspire you. As part of Comedy Central’s “Night of Too Many Stars,” a benefit to raise money for people living with autism, Katy Perry was joined by a special guest. The incredibly talented young girl named Jodi DiPiazza gave me chills as she and Katy harmonized on her track “Firework.” A beautiful duet that prompted me to personally donate. If this video doesn’t move you, you’re dead inside.
When the parental advisory warning came up for The Wanted’s new music video “I Found You” I thought to myself, come on really? How explicit could it be? Well m’am, there’s violence (lots of it) and definitely some type of criminal activity.
The dapper gents are on their way to find and rescue a blonde looker (or so we think) who was kidnapped by a creepy looking dude. The guys kick and punch their way up to her makeshift prison cell to release her, but not before Baby Nathan steals a steamy kiss. He’s growing up so fast!!
While I originally thought the “you” they were talking about in “‘I Found You” was the kidnapped beauty, I was wrong. All I can say, is there are just enough tough, sexy men in suits being aggressive with their adversaries to draw me in.
Here are the best comments on YouTube:
“*Parental Advisory explicit content* More like: *Warning. This video contains sexy men in suits. We are not responsible fo any ovaries that may explode whilst watching this*” — peridotemma
“bad boys rawwwrrrr : )……… no matter ….ilove U <3 the wanted” — iveth marcela salazar
“OOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMFFFFFFFFFFF
“Justin biber” — metin330
“Stop comparing TW and 1D. There is a huge difference between the two bands. One Direction: 5 cute little boys The Wanted: 5 sexy men You’re welcome! : )” — africanbeautyqueen89
“omg I died I died. They are so hot omg omg and Jay’s hair and Nathans’s voice and Siva at all and Tom at the end omg omg omg I died.” — SwagOnMeBiebs
Watch it here:
Over the next two days ANDPOP will be rolling out Q&As with some of our fave contestants on The X-Factor. Yesterday, we talked with CeCe Frey, a small town mail clerk who says she wants to sing as badly as she wants to breathe. CeCe is currently in the judges’ homes stage with mentor Demi Lovato, do you think she has what it takes?
Twenty-year-old CeCe Frey already has a trademark look to inspire her fans. The leopard print she wears on her face and legs is akin to warrior paint, inspiring an alter ego on stage.
Her confident attitude rubbed some viewers the wrong way during her audition in Kansas City, but after talking with mentor Demi Lovato during the judges’ homes phase, she had a change of heart. “When Demi told me I was coming across unlikeable it broke my heart” she said. “I tried to come off as a strong unbreakable person and while that is me in a sense, it was also pushing people away from me.”
CeCe sang Christina Aguilera’s “Ain’t No Other Man” during her first audition and the judges were impressed with her star attitude — Demi even admitted she had a girl crush. Whether or not you’re a fan, CeCe has a strong drive and deep connection with her fans, who admire her survivor attitude.
Last song performed LMFAO’s “Sexy and I Know It”
Where are you right now? I’m driving my old beat up pickup through my hometown. It’s nice to see my family and the leaves are changing colour here. It’s beautiful!
Describe a normal day before The X-Factor I got up really early and I’d do CrossFit before work. I’d work all day, then I’d go to class at night, at a local college. It was a busy day, but not very exciting.
Where did the leopard print idea come from? I can’t even remember the day I started doing it. I went through different things in my life that really affected my emotional strength — things that really tried to take the dream away from me. I was doing these shows and just said: “You know what? I’m going to paint my face.” When I paint my face or legs it’s like an alter ego that comes out. It’s an empowering thing and I feel like nobody can mess with me.
Do you think you’ve been represented fairly? Read more…
Bruno Mars’ new video for his pop single “Locked Out of Heaven” is delightfully old school, like it was recorded on an old VHS tape that had already been recorded over a dozen times before.
The concept of the Cameron Duddy-directed video is pretty simple, as it’s basically Bruno performing in a packed, sweaty club and playing games with his buddies during the day. While I love the song and the video’s retro quality I was expecting a little more. With lyrics like “Cause your sex takes me to paradise” and “Open up your gates cause I can’t wait to see the light” I was hoping for something a little more steamy and romantic.
The song is from his upcoming album Unorthodox Jukebox, out on Dec. 11. Instead of waiting for a big television premiere he gave the music video directly to his fans. He tweeted: “Everyones telling me to wait for a big primetime premiere on TV but you know what i says to em? I says NO! My fans desoyve to see it foist!”
Watch it here:
With boy bands like One Direction, The Wanted, Jonas Brothers and Big Time Rush dominating the headlines, here at ANDPOP we can’t help but wonder where all the girl bands have gone. Girl Groups are all the rage in the UK, China, and Korea, but The Pussycat Dolls seem be the last major girl band we’ve seen on our side.
We can’t help but wonder why? Is it because teenage girls have forgotten the girl power motto and prefer listening to boys serenade them? Thankfully, a few girl groups are gaining recognition with stellar hits. If you’re craving all female music but don’t know where to look, don’t worry we’ve got you covered.
Here are five girl groups to watch out for:
Stooshe
Members: Alexandra Buggs, Karis Anderson, Courtney Rumbold
Why we love them: Stooshe are a UK-based band, which means they bring that extra bit of sauciness American girl groups just can’t compete with. The ladies aren’t afraid to push the envelope with crude lyrics while still staying accessible to a younger crowd. Plus they have killer style.
Favorite song: ”Love me”
What’s next: Stooshe’s third single will be a cover of TLC’s “Waterfalls,” to be released on Nov. 5. Their debut album, Stooshe, drops Nov. 12.
Little Mix
Members: PerrieEdwards, Jesy Nelson, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Jade Thirlwall
Why we love them: Little Mix was the first group to win The X-Factor UK in eight seasons, and were actually formed exclusively to compete in the groups section of the talent competition. Even through the ladies haven’t been performing together for very long, their voices meld together with the perfect mix of rhythm and harmony.
Favorite song: “Wings”
What’s next: Little Mix’s second single “DNA” will be released on Nov. 11. Their debut album with the same name will follow eight days later on Nov. 19 .
Parade Read more…
Pink’s new music video for “Try” is a stunningly choreographed and emotional journey into a passionate relationship. The aggressive contemporary dance only highlights the primal basis of the lyrics. She sings in the chorus: “Where there is desire/ There is gonna be a flame/ Where there is a flame/ Someone’s bound to get burned/ But just because it burns/ Doesn’t mean you’re gonna die/ You’ve gotta get up and try try try.”
I never knew pink was such a strong dancer, though she’s always seemed like a very physical, movement-based singer.
Besides the artistic element of this video, I love Pink’s colourful look. Her blonde hair is highlighted with streaks of blue and yellow, and her sheer dress floats when she moves.
The track is from her new album The Truth About Love, which is available on iTunes now.
Watch it here:
Adele’s new track “Skyfall” for the latest 007 installment of the same name was supposed to be released at precisely 7:07 last night (Oct. 4) but apparently the Internet didn’t feel like being poetic and the song ended up leaking early, as anticipated songs are wont to do.
The track, co-written and produced by Adele’s frequent collaborator Paul Epworth, is powered by Adele’s beautiful voice and her incredible vocal range. Adele even overpowers the 77-piece orchestra, which was arranged by Epworth and Emmy-nominated film and TV composer J.A.C. Redford.
The new single is the first since her last album, 21, so we’re pretty stoked. I can confidently say I’m putting this in the 007 Soundtrack Hall of Fame. I think everyone else agrees — it’s already number one on iTunes.
Listen to it here:
Sooo I kind of secretly love this video. Before watching Cher Lloyd’s new music video for “Oath,” I couldn’t imagine having major feelings about the message of the song. Plus, I was originally put off by Lloyd casually hanging out on top of a flashy red convertible in her vintage bikini (dude, you’re 19).
Re:
But I soon fell in love.
The song is about the importance of friendship and sticking together FOREVER. You can cue the cheese all you want, but I’m pretty much inspired to strip down to my tasseled necklace-tank top thing (like the one she’s wearing) and slow-mo down the beach with my girls. It’s happening. Read more…
When we last heard from ThePianoGuys, they were crammed together in a little room jamming on a single piano to One Direction. Now they’re taking their cover songs to new heights — literally.
The group recently posted their cover of “Titanium” by David Guetta ft. Sia. Their rendition is moody and mysterious, blending beautifully with their outdoor setting.
The video was filmed in Bryce Canyon National Park, however the guys considered copper mines, steel mills, and industry factories before that. We’re glad that ThePianoGuys went with the national park for this epic and visually stimulating video.
Watch it here:
Christina Aguilera’s new video for “Your Body” is like a mashup of all her past personas. She’s got the sex appeal of Stripped some of the retro style from Back to Basics and of course her bold, trademark voice that’s oh-so-Christina.
In the Melina Matsoukas-directed video for the song, Christina is a murderous temptress who’s on the prowl… FOR BLOOD. Why do you hate men so much X-Tina? Brace yourselves for lots of colours (especially pink), rhinestones, costume jewelry and schexy dresses. Also expect tons of brutal yet unexplained murders. The track will be on her upcoming album Lotus, which will be out Nov. 13.
Do you like the new Christina?
Watch it here:
To singers, Adele must be what Tom Wolfe is to writers or Andy Warhol was to artists. Put simply, Adele is f*cking awesome and it’s hard to top her. So it’s understandable why Kelly Clarkson was hesitant to cover “Someone Like You” during her tour. She didn’t have to worry because she pretty much killed it.
During every concert stop on her “Stronger” tour, Kelly Clarkson covers a fan request. In Brisbane, Australia, she took on the red-headed singer’s sob-worthy single. ”I’ve actually been avoiding this song,” she told the audience. “It’s been literally every fan request. And I’ve been avoiding it because Adele might be one of the best singers of all time. …So hopefully I do it justice and don’t suck.”
In the past, Clarkson has covered Rihanna’s “We Found Love,” Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe” and Florence’s “Shake It Out.” Though it’s not our fave out of all her covers so far, we’re still pretty impressed — especially when it picks up in the second half.
Watch it here:
Rihanna’s new track “Diamonds” is a lot more slow burning than the club bangers we’re used to, but it gives her beautiful voice a time to shine. The single was produced by Stargate, who also did “Don’t Stop the Music,” “Rude Boy” and “Only Girl (In the World).”
Rihanna sings about a special boy in the chorus: ”So shine bright tonight, you and I/ We’re beautiful like diamonds in the sky/ Eye to eye, so alive/ We’re beautiful like diamonds in the sky.”
Rihanna told MTV this track sounds a lot more laid back and hopeful, which makes sense considering she describes her new album as a “happy and hippy record.” The single will be on her upcoming album, which will reportedly drop in November and MIGHT be called 7 Wonders (loves it).
Listen to it here:
Taylor Swift dropped the second single off her upcoming album Red called “Begin Again” and it’s an ode to love — maybe Conor Kennedy? Swift regales us with tales of her brand new beau, who continually surprises her by appreciating her awesome sense of humor (why would he?) and being all gentlemanly.
We also hear even more details about her horrendous ex-boyfriend, who didn’t think she was funny and hated when she wore high heels. (Obligatory speculation: Taylor Lautner??) Whoever it’s about, it’s a damn good track that we should appreciate without putting any faces on.
Anyway, the song is melodic and has that country twang we missed. It’s the perfect balance to the upbeat “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.” The track quickly shot to number one on iTunes.
Listen to it here:
You can tell from the first 30 seconds of Kesha’s new single “Die Young” that you’re probably going to hear it A LOT at rager house parties and neon-lit dance clubs in the next couple months. We’ve haven’t heard new music from Kesha in two years (sigh) but this was well worth the wait.
While the single has a summery vibe, I don’t think that’ll stop you from blasting it at home with your BFFs and indulging in Kesha’s drink of choice, whiskey. She sings: “I hear your heart beat to the beat of the drums / It’s such a shame that you came here with someone / So while you’re here in my arms / Let’s make the most of the night like we’re gonna die young.”
The Dr. Luke produced single was also co-written by fun.’s Nate Ruess. Kesha described her upcoming album Warrior, which is out on Dec. 4, as having a distinctly cock rock sound — whatever that means.
Listen to it here:
I have to say One Direction’s “Live While We’re Young” music video is one of my FAVES so far. I love the empowering message of the song, plus the guys genuinely look like they’re having a good time as they usually do, playing outside with their friends (who are VERY lucky to have them).
Donned in preppy plaids, blazers and collared shirts, the guys mess around outside, running in plastic bubbles on the lake, driving fast in a giant jeep and dancing at a neon glowstick dance party.
I’m inclined to dance to the track stat but I’m at work and I don’t know how my co-workers will take to my intense hip thrusting. I’m sure they’d join in if the sound wasn’t blocked by my headphones.
Watch the video here:
Anyway, here are my favourite moments, presented in gifs:
Look how silly they are!!
Let’s just revel in their silliness for a second. The guys wake up in a giant tent with perfect bedhead and literally bust out of it onto the ground. But don’t worry, they won’t let the fall spoil their day. [1d-muses]
Harry Banana
Do we need a reason to explain why this is our favourite gif? [niallhoranintanktops]
Who gave Louis the keys? Read more…
You wouldn’t think the two songs would complement each other, but this mashup featuring Taylor Swift’s “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” and Kanye West’s “Homecoming” (ft. Coldplay’s Chris Martin) is addictive. I love the chripy beat of Swift’s pop song mixed with the edgier rap lyrics by Kanye West.
While we know a collaboration would probably never happen (can Taylor forget the past?) we sure as hell wish it would. ”We Are Never Ever Coming Home Again” was mashed together by NOxPETSxALLOWED, who has previously done mashup battles between Drake and T-Swift, and Rihanna and Skrillex.
Speaking of Taylor Swift, The Handsome Hanson Brothers did their own acoustic rendition of “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” for Fifi and Jules radio show in Australia. Check it out after the jump.
Watch the mashup here:
Watch the Hanson Brothers here: Read more…
