Can't Get You Out Of My Head Today

My brain is often tuned to a radio station that I cannot control. Here's what it's playing today along with a few comments...

[cgyoomhtoday]

> TEXAS “WHEN WE ARE TOGETHER”

Though this band never broke through in the US market, the Scottish pop-rock group Texas made quite a splash in the UK and Europe in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. This track, from fifth LP The Hush, always stood out for me thanks to frontwoman Sharleen Spiteri’s lithe vocals, the song’s buoyant, spirited chorus, and of course the lush string arrangements paired with electronic drum beats.

But let’s get back to Ms. Spiteri. I have always been entranced by her playfully androgynous image, and it’s no surprise that she became a lesbian icon at home and abroad. There are even a few sapphic embraces in the video above if you watch closely! Sure, it’s not “Cool For the Summer,” but it was edgy in its day. 

See also: “In Our Lifetime,” which seems to steal the melody directly from TLC’s “Creep.” It’s a bold (and potentially litigious) move, but it certainly pays off.

[cgyoomhtoday]

> MANIC STREET PREACHERS “IF YOU TOLERATE THIS YOUR CHILDREN WILL BE NEXT”

Although this brilliant, poetic song was written with the Spanish Civil War in mind, I can’t help but draw parallels to the current state of affairs in the US. How many school shootings will it take before our government actually attempts to prevent these unthinkable atrocities? My aim here is not to perpetuate fear or suggest that we infringe on the basic rights of responsible adults - but we reached the breaking point a long time ago. The weapons used by these criminals are instruments of war, and they should not be available to anyone, especially those with signs of mental illness.

And so the warning in this song rings truer each day. If you tolerate this, your children will be next. It’s not just a cautionary phrase, it is a reality. Will this be enough of a call to action? All of us know someone attending a public school, so why doesn’t this hit home enough?

Let’s follow the lead of the students in Florida, who in the midst of recovery and sorrow have rallied together to stand up and demand change. I’m in, are you?

[cgyoomhtoday]

> SIGRID “STRANGERS”

This precocious 21-year-old Norwegian is generating plenty of buzz with her latest release. Simply known by her first name, Sigrid just scored the title of BBC’s Sound of 2018 (previous honorees include Sam Smith, HAIM, Jessie J, and Adele), plus this epic electronic track has become her first top 10 hit in the U.K.

The clever accompanying video plays off the lyrics, which deftly describe the illusions and fears associated with young love. The camera frequently strays from the film set to the surrounding studio, driving home the point that things aren’t always as shiny and bright as they seem on the surface. 

I can’t wait to hear more from this talented singer-songwriter. Keep an eye on this one -- I have a feeling big things are on the horizon!

[cgyoomhtoday]

> CALVIN HARRIS FT. PHARRELL WILLIAMS, KATY PERRY, BIG SEAN “FEELS”

The first time I heard this song, I enjoyed the laid-back, tropical vibe. I had no idea it involved such huge artists, but I felt an overwhelming urge to hop in the car, roll down my windows, and head straight to the beach.

When I discovered who Calvin Harris had enlisted for the track, it all made sense. Pharrell, not a vocal powerhouse but always endearing, delivers an effortless performance perfect for a lazy afternoon. Katy Perry, channeling Gwen Stefani in a major way, provides a winsome hook without crossing into annoying territory. And who doesn’t love a rap interlude from Big Sean? It’s paint-by-numbers, sure, but it works. 

Now, who wants a frozen cocktail with a little umbrella??

See also: Vengaboys, “We’re Going to Ibiza,” the trashy europop equivalent of this kitschy summer jam

[cgyoomhtoday]

> ENRIQUE IGLESIAS “BAILAMOS”

Those eyes, that chest, that mole! That was what most of us were talking about upon the 1999 release of “Bailamos,” famous for its sexy Spanish guitar and ridiculous, anthemic chorus. Originally appearing on the soundtrack for the dismal Will Smith vehicle Wild Wild West, the song ended up topping the US charts and making the Latin heartthrob an international star. At least something good came out of that train wreck of a movie.

Fun facts: The producers and writers behind “Bailamos” were also responsible for another massive late ‘90s hit -- Cher’s “Believe.” Also, Iglesias had his trademark mole removed in 2003. Smart move, in my opinion. 

See also: “Tonight,” in which naughty Enrique says the F word a lot (NSFW)

[cgyoomhtoday]

> KESHA “WOMAN”

I think it’s safe to say that pretty much everyone is rooting for this “Woman” (minus one allegedly perverted producer) . After more than five years of turmoil, it looks like Kesha has finally emerged victorious, as her just-released third LP Rainbow looks set to top the charts next week with over 100k units sold -- no small feat in this digital streaming age. 

While lead single “Praying” touched us with its raw beauty and cathartic candor, I am equally impressed by this empowering, Dap-Kings infused follow-up. It’s a nice balance for sure. After showing she’s moved on despite any pain, Kesha slips in a vengeful fuck off track for good measure. Did you truly expect anything less? I think not. 

Turn this one way up!!

See also: "Dirty Love,” in which Kesha glitters it up with a pair of bearded drag queens at Nashville’s filthiest dive bar/venue, Springwater (but where is Iggy Pop, who appears on the original version of this track?)

[cgyoomhtoday]

> CYNDI LAUPER “GOONIES ‘R’ GOOD ENOUGH”

I was convinced as a child that the chorus to this song included the lyrics “Goonie love,” which is probably what the suits behind the iconic film The Goonies wanted kids like me to think. Those words aren’t included at all -- in fact the original title was simply “Good Enough.” Apparently Warner Brothers, who asked the amazing Cyndi Lauper to put together the soundtrack to the film, tacked on the “Goonies ‘R’” part to help sell movie tickets. She was none too pleased about it and eventually went decades without performing the top 10 single. 

Drama aside, not only is this track gleefully nostalgic and totally 1985, it contains an undeniably infectious chorus with a hint of vintage Motown charm and a twist of Lauper’s trademark quirkiness. The campy video, which is a treat for fans of the accompanying movie, features most of the cast on what appears to be actual stage sets from the beloved action-adventure. The Bangles (before they made it big), Steven Spielberg, and several pro wrestlers (including Andre The Giant) also turn up with ridiculous results. It is enough to make your ‘80s brain explode. 

Side note: Cyndi Lauper, an outspoken LGBTQ activist since the beginning of her career, was one of the first celebrities that showed this little queer kid that it was okay to be unique and true to yourself -- despite what anyone thought. It may have taken me several years to truly take that message to heart, but she remains an inspiration to this day.

See also: “She Bop,” the first song I ever discovered about masturbation, though at the time I was only vaguely aware of what that meant

[cgyoomhtoday]

> PARAMORE “HARD TIMES”

I’ve mostly been ambivalent about Paramore in the past, despite the fact that they hail from just outside my hometown of Nashville. Perhaps I had outgrown teen angst-rock by the time they released their first album in 2005, I am not sure. They were just never on my radar beyond front woman Hayley Williams’ outrageous hairstyles/colors. 

“Hard Times” and its accompanying LP marks a major stylistic change for the group. On this single especially they have traded in their trademark wall of guitars for a tropical, upbeat, new wave vibe -- and I am all about it. Who knew this crew knew how to have so much fun? You’d never know from the production that the lyrics are kind of depressing, which is, of course, par for the course for Paramore. Sonically, it will be interesting to see what direction the band heads in from here.

See also: “Stay The Night,” a club hit by Zedd featuring Ms. Williams, in which the singer moonlights as a dance diva (it’s also the first track that made me take notice of her impressive vocal prowess)

[cgyoomhtoday]

> LIZZO “GOOD AS HELL”

I first discovered this sassy hip-hop/R&B powerhouse when I saw her name on the bill for the Nashville Pride festival last month. Though many of my friends gushed about “Phone,” a club banger about losing your most precious possession, I was drawn to "Good As Hell.” The thing that got me, other than the upbeat, soulful hook of course, was the message of empowerment and self-confidence. The video drives this idea home, as it portrays women at a beauty shop getting their hair done. Simple, but effective. Everyone knows that a new cut and color can bring you back to life after a shitty break-up! I’ve done it, and I bet you have, too. Flip that hair, honey!

See also: “Scuse Me,” in which Lizzo goes to church and confesses her love of self-pleasure (!)

[cgyoomhtoday]

> SANTIGOLD “L.E.S. ARTISTES”

I cannot believe it has been 10 years since this hypnotic, soaring single was released. Accompanied by a thoroughly enchanting video, “L.E.S. Artistes” completely skewers wannabe creative types in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. She pulls no punches, and she immediately won me over.

It’s a wonder that this didn’t catapult her into super-stardom -- though it did make her a critical darling and help garner her a fierce following. Then again the Philly native probably had no interest in being a plastic pop star; she is much better at being a subversive storyteller. Since her debut album, she has released two more LP’s that occasionally offer lighter fare, though most of it leans toward more scathing social and political commentary. Keep it up, girl!

See also: “Lights Out,” which should be played all all dance parties -- bonus points if you turn up in one of the amazing prints in the lighthearted video

[cgyoomhtoday]

> CHARLI XCX “BOYS”

One of my favorite smart, young singer-songwriters has just unleashed this cheeky, seemingly mindless summer single. And it’s one hell of an earworm. 

Though she is a proper big star in her native Britain and beyond, Charli XCX is best known in the US for contributing the vocals to the chorus of the once ubiquitous “Fancy” by the oft-maligned Iggy Azalea. She has her fare share of other accomplishments, of course -- did you know she wrote Icona Pop’s “I Love It”? -- but this new lazy ode to lust could bring her back to the spotlight.  (Also, doesn’t that video game blip noise sound like Mario or Luigi grabbing a coin in the Super Mario Bros games? Brilliant.)

All that aside, the video is campy yet clever. It features dozens of dudes of all colors, shapes and sizes in role reversal mode -- think guys in pillow fights, playing with puppies, and eating ice cream seductively. The twist? It includes some majorly famous hotties including Joe Jonas, Tom Daley, Ty Dolla $ign, Brendon Urie, will.i.am, Diplo, and Charlie Puth, to name a few. I have a feeling this will get plenty of exposure at gay video bars across the world. Yowza! 

See also: “Superlove,” a one-off single that never appeared on one of Charli’s studio albums -- a shame because the chorus is EPIC

[cgyoomhtoday]

> BRYAN ADAMS “HEAVEN”

This epic power ballad was the first major hit for Bryan Adams, and it even resurfaced in the early 2000′s as a dance club banger by DJ Sammy. The Canadian crooner is probably better known for his contribution to the Robin Hood soundtrack, “Everything I Do (I Do It For You),” which spent seven weeks on the top of the US charts in 1991, but I think this track is stronger. Also, there is something about those tight jeans that makes him even more appealing... but that could be just me.

[cgyoomhtoday]

> SAMANTHA MUMBA “GOTTA TELL YOU”

This Irish singer showed such promise with this track, her debut single. “Gotta Tell You” was ubiquitous in 2000, and everyone thought she was the one to watch. Although it was a massive success, her career never really took off from there. Since then she has done some acting and reality TV, and it seems doubtful she will return to the pop spotlight.

See also: “Baby Come On Over,” her other minor hit, and the video had a bit more of a budget 

[cgyoomhtoday]

> STEPS “DEEPER SHADE OF BLUE”

When it comes to British chart music, it doesn’t get much campier than this quirky quintet. The over-the-top video for “Deeper Shade of Blue” is one of the group’s main offenders, from the blue latex suits to the ridiculous (yet irresistible) choreography. I believe that Steps initially set out to become some type of modern ABBA -- and there are certainly nods to the legendary Swedes in Steps’ repertoire -- but flamboyant costumes and catchy choruses weren’t quite enough to elevate them to that level. Regardless, they blessed us with dozens of shameless pop gems like this one, and for that I am forever grateful.

Side note: I will be seeing Steps on their current tour in London in November! For the performance I hope to procure one of the outfits in the video you see above. You think I’m kidding...

See also: “One For Sorrow,” in which the group is all smiles during the dance breakdown, despite the obvious heartbreaking subject matter

[cgyoomhtoday]

> EN VOGUE “DON’T LET GO (LOVE)”

One could say that this ‘90s R&B/pop group paved the way for Destiny’s Child -- they consistently ruled the airwaves, they had a confusing rotating lineup (by choice, in their case), but most importantly they were strong, outspoken women. This single was their biggest hit, and understandably so. The harmonies are incomparable and the chorus is dramatic and infectious. It’s too bad they didn’t continue along this trajectory.

Side note: “Don’t Let Go (Love)” comes from the soundtrack to the film Set It Off, featuring an amazing cast including Jada Pinkett Smith, Vivica Fox, Blair Underwood, and Queen Latifah (in full-on lez mode... foreshadowing??). Plus there’s a major bank heist, y’all! What more could you ask for?

See also: “Free Your Mind,” inspiring drag queen ensemble numbers since 1992

[cgyoomhtoday]

> TRAVIS “WRITING TO REACH YOU”

It’s been nearly 20 years (!) since the release of this track, the lead single from the band’s sophomore effort, The Man Who. This record ended up being their big breakthrough thanks to global hit “Why Does It Always Rain On Me?” However, I believe this lilting lullaby is just as effective thanks to front man Fran Healy’s aching, earnest delivery. Also, as the song ponders, to this day I am not quite sure... what’s a wonderwall anyway?

Side note: I was in the crowd at Glastonbury to see Travis perform in 1999, just when “Why Does It Always Rain On Me?” began to gain momentum. What they say about that fateful afternoon is true -- during the first 20 seconds of the song, after several hours of sunny skies, a light drizzle began to fall. It was magical. 

See also (and it’s hard to choose because I love so many): “Sing.” There is an epic food fight, just so you know.

[cgyoomhtoday]

> AIMEE MANN “THAT’S JUST WHAT YOU ARE”

You may know this awkwardly endearing singer-songwriter from her work on the magnificent Magnolia soundtrack. If you’re an ‘80s kid, you definitely remember the soaring “Voices Carry,” her only top ten hit with former band ‘Til Tuesday. I became a big fan of her music thanks to this track, released in 1995. Full disclosure -- it first appeared on the Melrose Place soundtrack, and you know I was all about that shit as a 16-year-old fagling in training. 

But let’s talk about this video for a minute. It reminds me of something that Ben Stiller’s misguided character in Reality Bites would produce. The stylist must have turned up with all the quintessential ‘90s outfits, from the mismatched over-sized flannel & plaid to the torn, sheer sweater over the bikini top (surely from dELiA*s). And what about the stop-motion filming and the superimposed face in the sky? Aimee’s record label obviously had creative control over this, and she just looks uncomfortable, bless her. At least it provides a kitschy bit of nostalgia, albeit cringe-worthy.

Enjoy the video? Listen: “4th of July”