Brazilian Music - Finally Influencing the Global Music Market?

Why tune into Brazilian Music?

It's high time that Brazilian music receives the exposure that it deserves. Now I'm not talking about Sergio Mendes- Mas Que Nada that almost plays on loop in England, or the misconception that Brazilian music is all about drums and rhythms like the sound of the Beija Flor Carnival procession. The wider European community often perceive or stereotype Brazilians to people that lead easy lives and dance at high velocity around the streets of Brazil on a daily basis- incorrect. Yes there is a huge dance culture, and just as the economy there booms, so does the explosion of sounds from a range of different genres. With Brazil not yet 300 years into independence from Portugal, and with a huge multicultural influence from all over the World, new music and sounds are continually being formed and adapted.

Sertanejo

Sertanejo (Brazilian Country Music) from southern states such as Paraná, have been popularised by Portuguese & Brazilian footballers in Europe performing signature dances from famous songs, and as a result there has been an increase in the reputation of performers such as Michel Teló and Gustavo Lima in Europe.

Michel Teló

Gustavo Lima

This genre has been popular for a number of decades, with the real superstars who have achieved much longevity over the past 10 years or so being artists such as César Menotti & Fabiano, with some popular classic hits such as Como um Anjo, Retrato and Leilão which will last long in the memory for most Brazilians.

Pagode

Some of the most colorful, energetic and soulful sounds come from Salvador in the north of Brazil, most notably Pagode, which was picked up very quickly by the masses in Rio de Janeiro. This sound is still relatively new (developed through the early 80's) after the 70s funk movement, however this genre has quickly become a mainstream genre and firmly embedded as a subcategory of Samba. One of my favorite golden oldies is Jorge Aragão, once a prominent member of the Fundo de Quintal group, who developed a successful solo career. He is the Mr Cool of Pagode, with vocals so laid back he may be easily mistaken for having the odd tipple of Caipirinha or Skol before each show.

Jorge Aragão

There are many artists that have taken the original flavor of Fundo de Quintal (one of Brazil's most famous original Pagode group's) and developed this over the years to add an extra dimension to this sound. Groups such as ExaltaSamba featuring the terrific vocalists Péricles and Thiaguinho, and Grupo Revelacao, who have really delivered Pagode to the masses, not only in Rio, but also in other states and cities in Brazil. 

Grupo Revelação

ExaltaSamba

With Pagode there are no gimmicks allowed, just the purest live instrumentals and vocals for a completely natural but effective sound. With a fusion of tropical sounds from the bongos and congas, mixed with 4 string banjos, tan-tan's tambourines and brass, the only other requirement is a sense of rhythm, timing and effective vocals. This is as pure as music can get, meaning that any language barrier is easily overcome by a vibe which transcends borders, adapts cultural tastes and broadens musical minds.

Now to add a little dancing to proceedings. If anyone isn't convinced that Brazilian music doesn't embrace the spirit of multiculturalism, check out Sabrina Sato (Japanese, Swiss & Lebanese) dancing live at the Alexandre Pires concert below.

Alexandre Pires ft Sabrina Sato

With English and American artists over commercialised in the global market, we all too frequently hear the same songs both on the radio and video music channels looping over for weeks or even months on end. Foreign markets still embrace our music, but I for instance have always beggared the question as to why English, European and American markets don't embrace global music more effectively. 

Time to broaden our minds!

Read More

More- Roger Moore

Sir Roger Moore as Bond

With over 7 Bond movies spanning over 12 years, Moore was the longest serving Bond, and the most recognisable and associated face with the franchise. One could argue until blue in the face debating who was better, Sean Connery or Roger Moore which is a pointless task if you ask me, as both offered their own take on Ian Fleming's Bond character. 

One thing is for sure, Moore always offered movie goers a roller-coaster ride of entertainment, mixing the action sequences with quick quips, all impeccably timed and delivered with his typical debonair class and flair carried over from earlier roles in 'The Saint' and 'The Persuaders' which were both well acclaimed. One raise of the famous eyebrow was both captivating and engaging for the audience, giving Bond a soul and personality, which was noticeably void in Casino Royale and Quantom of Solace with Daniel Craig.

The question of which actor best fits Fleming's Bond from the book is as much a question as the enigmatic character himself from the book. The book left so much to the imagination, with the author leaving the intrigue and debate for the reader to decide. Roger Moore definitely takes the character from the book into all seven installments with a coolness and effortless approach, making him (arguably) the most natural, versatile and iconic James Bond to date. As mentioned beforehand there is no best Bond, so it is best left to individual opinion. This is probably why through re-forming the character by changing the actor contributes itself to the success that James Bond has had over 50 years up to October 2012, by freshening it up and moving with the times on a continual basis.

More Roger Moore?

With the half century of the Bond franchise having just taken place, we see a dedicated Sky Movies Channel '007' looping all movies over and over for a limited period, documentary's and talk shows discussing the iconic brand. Most prominently featured hasn't been Sean Connery or Pierce Brosnan, but Roger Moore who has still been doing the rounds aged 84. Admirable at an age where you face the public talking about high octane thrills and spills that happened last over 26 years ago, even for the sharpest pensioner to remember as clearly as Moore would be a challenge. Yes through the mix of face-lifts and natural ageing process he is now almost unrecognizable from the suave hero, however his mental health and quick witty responses has showed no sign of letting up! 

60's

2012

Having been on-screen for over 60 years, Sir Roger Moore can make the bulk of us proud to be British. Although (understandably) taking it slower at his age, he still lives the jet-set millionaire lifestyle to be expected of one so successful. Having commemorated Bond's 50th Anniversary, Sir Roger Moore is now touring the UK and has a great autobiography 'My Word is My Bond' which I would highly recommend to gain a greater insight into learning about this incredible man.

I'm not sure whether we have seen the last of Sir Roger on national television or movie screens, however he is rumored to be acting in Connemara Days (2014) alongside Brendan Gleeson. 

Read More

Phil Collins- Give Us Just "One More Night!"

Phil Collins (The One & Only)

Solo Success

Phil Collins is an artist that is quintessentially cool and laid back, without maybe having the on-stage rip-roaring charisma or stage presence showmen such as Elton John have for instance. Although this may have (in some peoples eyes) held him back as an outstanding performer or one of the all time greats on the global stage remains open for debate. Not particularly a heartthrob for the ladies, with little dancing technique or fashion sense; Phil Collins could almost be singled out as a true musician with a more modest and original style. 

One thing is for sure though, a successful career both in Genesis and as a solo artist spanning over 4 incredible and largely successful decades makes Phil Collins one of the most successful British musicians who has ever lived. In fact, Phil Collins is one of three recording artists (along with Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson) who have sold over 100 million albums worldwide in a band as as a solo artist. 

His unique character defines the very tone and variation within his music, from heat-break to cool, and from uplifting funky tracks back to cool again! From the tropical uplifting tones of "Paradise" to the laid back "A Groovy Kinda Love" it is hard to channel or pigeon hole Phil Collins into one particular genre or category.

Why Phil Collins and What Inspired Me To Write This?

For me, Phil Collins is one of those artists I heard repetitively around the house, in the car, and at family parties as a child. While leaving an impression and memorising many of the lyrics, I was maybe too naive in not having developed such a cultured musical taste in my younger years to not appreciate his music and talent so much!

To have stood the test of time from 1968 to performing up to last year (2011) is clearly a merit of his success, and he's still only 61 years young! Being an open minded music fan, my other tastes do span to more modern flavors including dance and R&B. Indeed both genres, and artists such as the great Mariah Carey having covered his songs in more recent years; clear testament to Collins's lasting legacy for time to come!

Furthermore, I have recently watched a full length performance of one of his last shows from his 'Farewell Tour' in 2004 from Paris. This was beyond any shadow of a doubt one of the best live performances by a solo artist and a band I have ever witnessed. I really didn't realise that there were still artists in this day and age that could be pitch perfect for over 2 hours live, including those evidently winding down their careers as Collins was 8 years ago. What a professional! 

Where is he now?

Having battled many health problems, including (reportedly) losing his hearing in one ear over a decade ago, and many other aches and pains as highlighted from his Wikipedia profile, I don't feel that Phil Collins lost the love of music, but is maybe too fragile to play the drums at the insanely awesome tempo expected of him, let alone lasting a full concert! After all, having reached such a peak who wants to see a legends career decline? 

It can be a sad story watching greats such as Paul McCartney (a national treasure) struggle to hit the notes in the Queen's Jubilee Concert, and even at the Olympic Ceremony. 

Phil Collins when choosing to retire cited that he wanted to "focus on family life" which is a fair decision; however deep down I'm sure that we could all do with "One More Night", despite the feeling that his best days have maybe now passed. I'm sure that he's maybe in Switzerland, or at one of his many other pads around the World seeing out a peaceful life! Well I'm sure I'm not the only one that wishes him the best going forward.

                                        Phil Collins Live in Paris 2004 (Farewell Tour)

Read More

Ryan Leslie- Inspiration & Innovator

Who is Ryan Leslie?

Shot taken from 5 Minute Freshen Up' Video

In summary, all you need to know about Ryan Leslie is listed here. Why enthuse so much over a once relatively unknown artist to the popular music World? The secret to Ryan Leslie (R-Les's) success started by subtly drawing in lovers of music (true music fans), those that dedicate hours to browsing online radio, forums, blogs, audio snippets, and video. A Harvard graduate, an intellect and a scholar, Ryan Leslie sussed the change in musical direction to the digital age and acted on it, maximising YouTube as a portal and hub to demonstrate his musical ability. Still you may ask, why has he not hit the mainstream charts? The secret to Ryan Leslie's success is in music production, producing for a range of popular (mainstream) artists such as Cassie, Fabulous, 50 Cent, Britney Spears, Chris Brown, Mary J.Blige, and the popular French R&B singer Matt Pokora. Watch how it all started for him below:

What Innovation?

Ryan Leslie was one of the first artists to become acclaimed by peers and fans through use of YouTube and MySpace, then (latterly) Facebook and Twitter. Not only does Ryan interact with fans, but he offers incentives, rewards, and raw studio talent. We don't tend to see this from many other artists/producers in the industry. One of the best marketing strategies was R-Les's invite via Twitter to his followers to take part in a studio session for the video '5 Minute Freshen Up'. One lucky girl got a studio session, and a feature in the video for the studio production of this tune, which can be seen below:

Studio Cut

Official Video

Check out Ryan Leslie's Next Selection Lifestyle Group site, founded and established by Ryan Leslie.

Why is Ryan Leslie Such an Inspiration?

Ryan Leslie has breached the bounds between music and the digital age, taking the initiative and thinking out of the box to give us all a taste of his genial musical attributes. Whether it be playing a wide range of instruments, using insane objects to create new sounds, utilising incredible vocalists, or using his incredible marketing acumen to hit his demographic (target audience) like a nail with a hammer! I've been a fan for over 6 years, when I first followed Ryan's MySpace page. 

So there you have it, even if R&B isn't your flavour, you can still have full admiration if you yourself are a grafter or social media enthusiast for how Ryan Leslie makes his living. If it pulls the birds (i.e. Sports Illustrated models), there's little need for many more words.

You don't need to be the most famous in the World to be the most admired.

As we say in the UK "Proof is in the pudding people!"

My Favorite Video Below!

Up and Coming Album

'Les Is More' is due to be released in late October 2012, with some fantastic arrangements and some songs already in the public domain on Ryan's YouTube channel. Check out songs such as 'Beautiful Lie' featuring beautiful girls and the stunning Mercedes SLS . Although this latest album has a lot of rap (not my cup of tea) compared to his previous more soulful R&B flavours, there's no doubt in my mind as to the quality of output from his work. I'll be one of the first to download from ITunes or import the CD Album from the United States to the UK. By chopping and changing his style somewhat for this latest album, it's more refreshing than regressing, showing us an even more versatile range of work.

As Ryan Leslie famously proclaims to his fans "“They try to put me in a box—it's impossible!" 

Trending- #LesIsMore

Read More

Why Choose a UK Holiday?

Want a Cheap Holiday in 2012? Choose South West Wales

After travelling extensively abroad around Europe and the Americas in the past 20 years or so I'm going to give it a miss this year (2012). This August, I will be travelling with a group of gents (aged 20+) to South West Wales where I have spent many a school or Summer holiday. Some of us do have the funds to travel overseas, but the question is 'why travel overseas when there are so many places to visit in the UK?'

Spoils of South West Wales

When thinking of Carmarthenshire or Pembrokeshire Coast you may think that these areas are ideal retirement havens. You would be completely correct, however have you really discovered all that these counties have to offer? OK we're a bunch of mature (sporty) lads aged between 20-27 looking for a laugh, so the natural feeling was one of scepticism, wondering how to transform an ideal beach holiday to see the grandparents, and make this work for us. Our research has resulted in finding gems such as Heatherton Adventure Park (visited previously), Battlefield Paintballing and Quad Biking. There are also coastal walks between St Davids and Solva with plenty of great pubs along the way, and some night-life (albeit limited) in Tenby, Haverfordwest or Carmarthen, however we're up for a laugh, ready to down more than a few Ale's and have plenty of banter, rather than plenty of lagers and the dance-floor to follow. With one of the guys competing in Triathlon the following weekend, we may all have to follow his example and do a few morning sprints along the beach, and a bit of swimming in the chilly Irish Sea. Let's hope late August brings some of the fine weather we've been basking in, in recent months!

Beaches in South West Wales

Wrong! One of the finest beaches in Wales is Broad Haven, which can be located in Bosherston on the Pembrokeshire coast. Perfect for beach volleyball, French cricket, beach football & more with its white soft sand. The waves are also pretty good, so don't forget your body-board! If you're a keen surfer though, you may prefer to take your long-board to Newgale where the surf can rival the likes of Newquay.

Tenby, Saundersfoot and Amroth are fantastic for a kick-about or a little 5-aside with hard sand and vast open spaces.

Where to lodge in South West Wales?

There are plenty of B&B's, Hostels, Cabins, Caravans to stay. I tend to find (for most holidays) that TripAdvisor offers a broad range of opinions and honest reviews. There are plenty of idyllic hotspots along the coast with some fantastic sea views.  

To be honest though if you want the real British holiday, do it on the cheap by either grabbing a tent, or a cheap place to stay with a group of friends!

I'd like to thank 'ManVsWorld' for the pointers! Check out this fantastic travel blog.

Read More

Has London2012 Inspired a Generation?

London2012 - Providing Inspiration and Future Legacy?

The power of the London2012 Olympics has not just been felt in the big city, but also across the World. With so many athletes competing on live BBC televised broadcasts and highlights reels, the profile of Olympic sport and the athletes themselves has increased. Most folk would have known about record holders such as Usain Bolt before the games, along with maybe a handful of other star names. Little did we know however, that hundreds more athletes would run through the finish line or stand on the podium for becoming heroes and major influences for the next generation within their respective sports.

From the opening ceremony on 27th July 2012, through the closing ceremony on 12th August 2012 the World witnessed not just elite sporting talent, but true sportsmanship, gamesmanship and professionalism that most other sports have lost sight of. Unlike sports such as football, there was no aggressive chanting against foreign nations or sporting peers, no foul and abusive language towards officials, no need for security when athletes wanted to embraced their supporters in the crowd. There were thousands of volunteers, taking annual Summer leave from their full time jobs just to take part in taking care of both athletes and the general public during the games. Their hard work and input and contribution will always be remembered. Their unwavering enthusiasm has definitely won us all over!

Off the tracks, or away from the water or the stadiums there was society from different nations mingling with each other. People from different ethnicities and religions all mingling- joking, sharing experiences, opinions, and more. This was a completely refreshing games, unlike any other sporting event the UK had ever previously witnessed. Not once did we here of any trouble, and anything worthy of any negativity was the Belarusian shot putter Nadzeya Ostapchuk being stripped of her gold medal for failing her drugs test. There's always one!

Yes it is far too early to be talking about legacies. Sports governing bodies such as UKA need to keep to their promise and mission of investing in both new and existing development programmes to keep producing superstars. The Government also need to stick to their word of investing further in competitive sports in schools and elsewhere. I'll pin my hopes on the first point here then!

London2012 Closing Ceremony

Future for Olympic sports in the UK?

Yes there are the mainstream sports such as Football, Rugby, Golf, Tennis and Cricket which are shown weekly, not just competed in every few months or every four years. This should not detract from the importance of the Olympic Sports and 'getting involved' in sports such as swimming and track & field. The likelihood of making it as a professional and successful competitive football player may be relatively small, however succeeding and achieving in maybe a lesser known athletic sport with less competition for places, but equally rewarding surely now now has to be the target and focus for many parents and their children in the future. The Olympics are the perfect reference point to draw inspiration for parents, not just to influence their children into being active and taking part in competitive sports, but for the children of the future to battle the national obesity issue and to learn the measures of success and failure! As much as I love football, the new heroes should not the glorified and overpaid Premier League footballers within teams, but individuals who have succeeded by being paid next to nothing to learn, and ply their trade with only a fraction of Lottery funding- if lucky! Heroes such as Chris Hoy, now the UK's most decorated Olympian.

All in all, team Great Britain had their most successful medal haul since 1908, resulting in being third in the medals table behind China and the United States. However, if these things were to measured 'per capita', Team GB have won! 

The time is not tomorrow, the time should be now. With the Olympics very fresh in the memory, it is high time that parents and their children take strides to identifying sports of enjoyment, and to nurture and develop  them into competitors and potential athletes. Let's all strive to push forward as many athletes for Rio2016 as possible, and the next generation beyond!

Read More

Early Musical Influences

A Child of the 80s

Music quickly became a big part of my childhood, not just through listening intently to a multitude of sounds, but by being influenced by my very musical family, with my mother as a Professional Soprano and vocal trainer and my father being a violinist and pianist. Although learning to play a few instruments myself, I can't quite hit the right notes vocally, which is rather unfortunate - not just for me, but for those who have ever had the displeasure of hearing my incredibly sharp or flat tones :). Yes, as you are right to think, some vocals are just so bad, that no amount of training helps.

From a very young age, the sounds of all types of genres became embedded. Classical, the swinging 60's, funky 70's through to late 80's. Born in 1984, my earliest musical memories resonate from the late 80s, where I heard the likes of Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, Lionel Richie, Pet Shop Boys, Elton John and Phil Collins on the radio & cassette player.

Alexander O'Neil- Criticize  

Whitesnake- Looking For Love

As diverse as some of the artists just mentioned are, I also became very fond of material from Pavarotti, and the 'Three Tenors' when grouped together with Plácido Domingo and José Carreras.

Pavarotti & Lucio Dalla (Caruso)

Early 90s - The Dawn of Music Discovery!

As a 7 year old in 1990, I could already pick up a change of tide with popular music styles. This was the Electronic and Techno era beginning, with some Techno vibes from Snap, Haddaway and Corona to Reggae grooves from UB40, Shabba Ranks, Inner Circle. This is definitely where my musical soul was born! Yes there was also the development of Hip Hop and R&B, however this fell upon deaf ears at such a young age.

My very first radio to cassette recordings were from the DJ Dr Fox (Neil Fox) shows, and Radio1 Top40 on Sunday evening's, always listening intently to the chart countdown. I remember repeating both A and B sides of my collections continuously until the dreaded reel started to get caught, or worse CHEW UP! Was there ever a worse feeling as a child than seeing your favourite hits (which took so much effort to get in particular order) self destructing right in front of your eyes?

Haddaway- What is Love

Let me know you're own experiences, or sounds that have influenced the music you listen to now.

Read More