Let Freedom Ring 'Cause This One's For The Girls

Well, needless to say it's been awhile...

In honor of election day and all the women who have gone before me to give me a voice in the government, I thought of Martina McBride's heartbreaking hit, "Independence Day." Martina has always been an advocate for women's issues, most especially domestic abuse, and I felt that the patriotic setting of this video was especially timely given all the political frenzy going down all over the country today. Also, just reminder that women have endured much before us to give us freedom as women to exercise our voice politically as well as in the home.

Since I couldn't bring myself to make my return to blogging on such a depressing note, here is another, significantly more uplifting, Martina song, "Love's The Only House:"

And THIS is why I love country music, people.

It's good to be back.  Hopefully it won't be another eight months before my next post. ;) Get out there and vote ladies and if you aren't registered this time, make sure you are for the next election, because believe it or not, YOUR VOICE MATTERS.  Whatever you believe, whoever you support, make sure to let the world know it, because that is your right!  It took me a very long time to truly appreciate this, because given that you may not like any of the candidates or just dislike politics in general, you may be tempted to ignore it all together.  I understand wholeheartedly this position and have been there myself, but at the end of the day, it really is important.

It also doesn't end here.  Just because the election will be over tomorrow, there are decisions being made every day on your behalf --- women's health care in Texas has been exploding lately with controversy and I admit, until quite recently, I was not aware or informed. 

Here is the link to a great article that ran in the August 2012 issue of Texas Monthly: http://www.texasmonthly.com/preview/2012-08-01/feature2. Unfortunately, you have to register to read (although it appears free) and I cannot seem to find the full article anywhere, but this will at least give you a taste/good source for some current Texas happenings within women's health care. 

Oops! Just kidding, I'm not actually done using Martina's music.  Here is "This One's For The Girls:" 

We are women, hear us roar.

RAWRRRRRRR (see?),

Kristin

They're Your CH-CH-CH-CH-CH-CH CHERRI BOMB!

All I can say, is damn.  These pint-sized rockers sure pack a punch.  I was researching the list of bands slated to play at this year's SXSW 2012 looking for any names that might catch my eye.  As a huge fan of The Runaways (hit song "Cherry Bomb"), the band name, Cherri Bomb, stood out...and I figured (secretly hoped) it was going to be an all-girl force of nature. I am pleased to see this four-pack of badass 12-14 year olds does JUST that.  They would be great if they were in their 20s, but the fact that they are in their teens makes it even more incredible.  I can not WAIT to see what these girls have to bring as they develop into young adults.  As a side note, I was a little disappointed to find out that the name was not actually inspired by The Runaway's song...alas! 

If you think these girls are as awesome as I do, check them out at SXSW 2012!  They are performing several showcases, this one comes for FREE as long as you RSVP! Austin Rox

Below is the official music video for my personal favorite of their songs, "Let It Go."

Just for fun here is a video of The Runaways performing "Cherry Bomb" live in Japan 1977.

In case you saw the 2010 film made about The Runaways with Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart, here is their adaptation of the same performance: 

As another aside, local Austin nonprofit Girls Rock Camp Austin provides incredible summer camp opportunities for young girls ages 10-18 to form rock bands, write songs, and perform them at a showcase at the end of camp.  Check it out!

XOXO,

Kristin

What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger...AGAIN

I've already written a post on Kelly Clarkson's new song, "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)," but per usual, Glee's rendition of some of my favorite songs inevitably worm their way back into my heart, and thus, onto my blog.

XOXO,
Kristin

I Believe in You and Me: R.I.P. Whitney Houston

When you think "great singer of our time," Whitney Houston is sure to be high up on your list.    Hits like, "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)" and "I Will Always Love You," are sure to come to your mind first.  While these songs are prime examples of Whitney's wonderful gift, my favorite memory of Whitney is singing "I Believe in You and Me" in the movie The Preacher's Wife.  I've included the video below.  Enjoy!

The music world will never be quite the same without you, Whitney.  You've inspired us all!

XOXO,

Kristin

Stronger

Kelly Clarkson's fifth studio album, "Stronger," was just released and given her stellar performance at the Super Bowl, I had to check it out.  I've always been a Kelly fan, not necessarily because I have loved every song she has released, but more because she is an incredible talent and I respect her attempt to create music that reflects her as a person and that she believes in.

The first video is Kelly singing a cover of "Up To The Mountain" at an Idol Gives Back show.  Jeff Beck plays guitar so you know this has to be good! This is when Kelly cemented her place in my mind as a great talent!

The next video is her new single of her album "Stronger." The song is called "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)." Yes, it's poppy, and yes, the video is silly, but it is such a fun and uplifting song and I have found myself listening to it all week long!  Also...I just have to say I think this would make a great flash mob...anyone else agree?

This last video is a live performance of "Dark Side," my favorite song from the album so far. This performance also highlights Kelly's ability to perform extremely well live!

I hope this post will at least make you take another look at Miss Clarkson and maybe give her some good PR out there in this big, bad music world...at the end of the day...girl's got pipes :)

XOXO,

Kristin

Kelly Does The Nation Proud

Word on the web is that Kelly Clarkson blew the national anthem out of the water at Super Bowl XLVI.  I am proud to say I agree completely! 


I was blown away by her performance.  Not only was her pitch near perfect, but she added her own personal spin to the rendition that was both tasteful and interesting. For the first time, I actually LIKED the national anthem.  The kids choir in the back was a fantastic touch as well.  Wow...I'm just so blown away by her performance. Way to go girl!


I've always been a fan of Kelly, but for all of those haters out there, you can't come close to arguing that this chick doesn't belong in the spotlight. She has some major pipes and deserves much more recognition that she is currently getting.

In light of this stellar performance, I immediately downloaded her latest album, "Stronger."  Keep an eye out for a review...I just have to finish listening to it first. :)

XOXO,

Kristin

R.I.P. Etta James

 Last week on January 20, 2012, the world said goodbye to a beautiful woman of music, the lovely Etta James, at the young age of 73.  Etta was most known for her hit, "At Last," but gave the world so much more than that.

I'll never forget the first time I started listening to Etta James.  To be honest, I can't for the life of me remember how I got the CD or why, but whatever the reason, I decided to take it with me on a summer trip to Thailand following my senior year of high school!  I listened to that CD the majority of the trip and for that reason, I will always have an extra soft spot in my heart for the music of Etta James.  It could not have stood more in contrast to my surroundings at the time, but something about her vocals fit perfectly with my experience. There was something so timeless and magical about her voice.  She reached into my soul and gripped it, in the best possible way of course. Every time I hear Etta James, I remember the countless hours spent driving through back roads of Thailand in a tiny van and just looking out the window feeling so at peace. For that few weeks alone, I am so glad to have known Miss Etta James.

Below is a video of Etta James' hit "Stormy Weather," my personal favorite of her songs. Enjoy!

XOXO,
Kristin

That Don't Impress Me Much!

I can't say I thought I would be posting a Shania Twain video on here when I started this blog, but desperate times call for desperate measures.  Fellas of my generation seem to have forgotten that it's usually a good idea to TRY and impress a lady...so here's a woman who puts it all in a tongue-and-cheek song that is oh so fun to sing along to! And fellas...maybe put off mentioning your Halo obsession or crazy ex-girlfriends until the third date?

Ladies and gentlemen, Miss Shania Twain!

XOXO,

Kristin

Run The World

I saw this number on Glee and absolutely loved it! (big surprise) Glee has been hitting it out of the park lately with their all-female numbers, but I gotta give props to Beyonce for the original song/video as well.  Check them out below!

XOXO,

Kristin

Jungle + Rolling Around On The Beach Half Naked = Fierce? Obviously.

Okay.  I'll keep this post short.  I could rant and rave about how the Destiny's Child video for "Survivor" depicts women in a negative way blah blah...but let's face it...those three hot chicks in camouflage bikinis really make me wanna kick some butt!  In this case, I say empowerment definitely wins out.  I'm pretty sure if I was ever stranded on an island I would not only tear myself a skimpy outfit out of whatever materials I had available, but I would also be transformed into an Amazon warrior woman...singing and dancing in my spare time when I'm not hunting for food or protecting the others from vicious creatures.  You may think I'm being sarcastic, but I'm actually completely serious...I. Love. This. Video. Enjoy!

Same song as part of a clever mash-up.  Great performance on Glee!  You go girls!

XOXO,

Kristin

Fixing You

I don't know whether it's the approaching Valentine's Day that's got me feeling so lovey-dovey tonight (yes, the red and pink has ALREADY invaded the stores) or something else entirely, but I feel like highlighting two very special performances of the same song, "Fix You" by Coldplay.

For Christmas, I got the new Glee Volume 7 cd...so. stinking. excited.  Anyway, one of the songs, is the cast's rendition of Coldplay's "Fix You."  Driving back to school, I found myself listening to the song over and over, and it reminded me of a stunning performance on So You Think You Can Dance that used the same song a few years ago.  For a little bit of background, the piece was inspired by cancer survivors and the desire of a loved one to "fix" them.  It's a beautiful piece and I think you will enjoy it.

Now back to Glee!  In this episode, Will sings this song to Emma after a particular rough visit with her parents that causes her OCD to flare up.  In an extremely moving gesture, Will sits down next to Emma to engage in her ritual with her.  He realizes for now, he can't make her pain go away, but he can be there with her.  As an OCD sufferer, this moment was particularly moving to me.  Isn't that what we all want after all?  To find that one person who will JOIN us in our pain?  The writer's of Glee have done a fantastic job with Emma's character and I hope you will be as moved by this scene as I was.

Lately I have found the desire to fix situations incredibly strong.  I want to take on the pain of my loved ones away and spare them from feeling it.  If you're like me and you've ever had this tendency, you understand it can be a devastating one.  Ultimately, you cannot take someone else's pain away and it would be unhealthy to do so.  But at the same time, I think the desire to do this for people we love is truly one of the most beautiful aspects of humanity.

XOXO,

Kristin

Screw Perfect

Hello all!  I owe this post to Glee.  In one of the recent episodes, "I Kissed A Girl," Glee club members work to convince Santana that being a lesbian is nothing to be ashamed of and that they will have her back no matter what.  The assignment for the week is to sing songs written by ladies, and for the ladies! Woohoo! 

Needless to say each song in this episode could get a blog post shout out, but the first song, sung by characters Kurt and Blaine, really touched me.  The song is "F**kin' Perfect (Perfect)" by P!nk.  I had heard it before, but when they sang it on the show to Santana I really paid attention to the words.  Here is the best video I could find of the scene:

 

Naturally, after seeing this episode, I was dying to look up P!nk's original version.  I have pretty much had it on repeat since then.  I have included the video below for your viewing and listening pleasure!

WARNING: This video/song contains expletives, images of sex and self harming, so use your own discretion before you view.

"F**kin' Perfect" by P!nk

I don't know what it is about this song exactly that gets me so fired up, but all I have to say is AMEN SISTA!  I gathered some statistics from the web on suicide and depression that I bet a lot of you will find pretty shocking:

• In 2007, suicide was the third leading cause of death for young people ages 15 to 24 (National Institute of Mental Health website)
• The top 10 leading causes of death in the United States in 2007 for adults ages 18 to 65 shows suicide is the 4th leading cause of death in the United States for adults in this age range, surpassing other causes including diabetes, stroke, and homicide. The data are based on death certificate information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) National Vital Statistics System. (http://www.nimh.nih.gov/statistics/3AGES1865.shtml; NIMH website) 
• Depression will be the second largest killer after heart disease by 2020 -- and studies show depression is a contributory factor to fatal coronary disease. (http://www.upliftprogram.com/depression_stats.html#3; WHO report on mental illness released October 4, 2001. Health news stories: Depression Link to Heart Disease, Hostility, Depression May Boost Heart Disease)

It's hard to watch P!nk's video and not want to cringe and look away. The thing is, we can't look away, because this stuff is happening around us all of the time...right now...this second.  Clearly, looking at these statistics, this is not something that is a "small group" of people.  Don't you ever wonder why we live in such an unhappy world?  Doesn't it bother anyone else?  We just accept it, saying it's "how it is," but is it really how things are supposed to be?


I say no.  I say we change things.  And for God's sake people, open up!  Stop hiding your heart and pretending you don't feel, because we all do.  Love those around you even though you might get totally broken in the process.  And most importantly "pretty, pretty please don't you ever feel like you're less than perfect!" LOVE YOURSELF!


 I love that she ends the video in a positive way, because so often we don't see happy endings in cases like these.  I love P!nk for bringing this beautiful song and music video to the world. Mad props, girl!


Okay, if you still aren't convinced, here's the deal: I fail at this daily.  I realized writing a blog about empowering/empowered women and praising their awesomeness, I wasn't walking the walk myself.  I'm not saying this will go perfectly (haha...get it?), but I am going to make a pledge here and now to all of you lovely readers to make a change in my life.  I'm sick and tired of letting how a guy treats me bring me down.  And I'm done tearing myself down in the process.  I deserve to be treated the absolute BEST, and you do too.  Let's not give up on that...okay?


Whatever it is for you...image, sexuality, relationships, broken body...figure it out and think about making a change.  None of us are perfect and we wouldn't want to be.  Maybe you should try hanging a picture crooked or misspelling a word on your next assignment...it's kind of a rush.  Relish in your imperfections!!


I dare you. ;)


XOXO,
Kristin

Get Hot!

If you haven't watched the music video for "Gimme Sympathy" by Metric, then you MUST....now...RIGHT now.  It's safe to say that a few years ago this song/music video changed my life...now before you go thinking I'm being melodramatic, let me just explain.  

This video came into my life at a time when I was starting to realize that I have this inner badass DYING to get out on the stage.  In everyday life, I'm goofy and I like to think adorable (hehe), but sexy and badass are not probably words that would come up if people were asked about me.  In terms of being in crowds, I HATE when people are all looking at me...HATE. IT.  I (still, unfortunately) run and hide when group games are being played.  By now you are probably thinking, "and THIS girl wants to be the front woman of a rock band?"  I know. 

What caught my attention about this video was the way in which, front woman, Emily Haines, carries herself.  From the very beginning, when she is donning her final glove, to the moment where she grabs the mic to begin singing, to her adorable leg dance (just watch and you'll understand) she commands the attention of the viewer.  It was this video that helped me to realize that being "badass" doesn't just mean one thing.  It's not so much about being ostentatious or outrageous, but more about a sense of power and confidence.  Now this, is something I can do! :)

The music itself is light, fun, and somewhat poppy, but her attitude definitely earns her video a spot on this blog.  And I mean, really...have you SEEN those heels?!

XOXO,

Kristin

Happy New Year!

As the new year begins, I'm sure we are all thinking about new year's resolutions and things we would like to do differently this year.  Personally, I've found resolutions to be completely useless in the past, serving not to inspire, but rather defeat.  I mean let's be serious...even if you want to read more "read 10 books this year" is really not an effective way to make it happen.  It's sort of setting yourself up for an automatic defeat.  If you read 8, that will be awesome, but you will feel bad, because you didn't make it all the way until book number 10.  And at the end of the day, is that really what we're going to remember come December 31, 2012? I have a feeling that most of you have probably had similar experiences.  If super specific resolutions work for you, then more power to you; however, I've found in the last few years that having a new year's mantra is far more effective.  What kind of changes can we make in the way we live?  That's what I want to focus on.


So what's my mantra for 2012?

"Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment 

that there is something more important than fear."

Ambrose Redmoon

I'm going to let you in on a little secret...figure out how to do THIS (above) and your life will be constantly changing in a positive way.  One of the upsides to dealing with OCD from such an early age and having to overcome intensive treatment, is that I learned first hand that fear is just a smoke-screen.  Once you realize that something abstract is holding you back from virtually everything in life, it all comes down to you.  Are you going to let fear run your life today or are you going to kick fear in the ass? No, it's definitely not easy, but let me tell you it is MORE than worth it!

This year, I want to apply this mantra to my music.  I've come along way (I have started recording now!), but I still have a long way to go before I am up on stage shaking my thing (ugh, stage fright)!  But I have decided that my musical aspirations and the inner Sasha Fierce that I know I have inside of me is far more important that the fear I have about doing those things.  I think a lot of times people think that bravery comes from a lack of fear.  Thank God, I've finally realized courage is one of the most terrifying things you can be...fear DOESN'T go away, courageous people aren't supernaturally brave...they've just decided that something is more important than that fear.

So for any of you out there afraid to take a chance (me, me, me!), be afriad, be TERRIFIED, but DO. IT. ANYWAY. 

Here's to an amazing New Year!

XOXO,

Kristin