7May/12Off

Top 10 Songs About School

May 7th, 2012

Songs about school have almost always been popular. From Pink Floyd to Saved by the Bell, songs about teachers, tests and students seem to let us rock out in a way other songs don’t. Here, in no particular order, are 10 of our favorite songs about school:

1. Another Brick in the Wall by Pink Floyd

Of course, this is one of the first songs about school that comes to mind. Full of rebellious and angst-loaded lyrics, this classic has allowed generations of students to sing out against school, teachers and homework.

2. High School Confidential by Jerry Lee Lewis

This old-school tune (excuse the pun) is all about a high school dance. We all remember those days well: asking out your crush date, finding the perfect dress and then the big night. High School Confidential made it to the Top 40 back in its heyday.

3. Hot for Teacher by Van Halen

This well-known song details the saga of a high school student with a crush on his teacher. This unforgettable song is dramatic and catchy, all in one great hit.

4. School’s Out by Alice Cooper

Another rebellious tune, School’s Out is sung by high school kids across the country as they embark on their summer vacations. This song became a top 10 hit, and its tune will be loved for years to come.

5. Saved by The Bell (television show theme song)

While this may not fall into the same category as the other tracks on the list, the theme song for the well-loved Saved by The Bell is known by heart by kids everywhere. This show reminds us of the fun, sometimes crazy days of high school.

6. Principal’s Office by Young MC

Every kid who has ever been sent to the principal’s office can relate do this song. All about getting caught for shenanigans and then being sent to the principal’s office, this song is the perfect song for your school song playlist.

7. Be True to Your School by The Beach Boys

An oldie but a goodie, Be True to Your School is a solid tune about school spirit. It brings back the days of football games, face paint and pep rallies. This throwback to the good old days has catchy lyrics you can’t help but sing along to.

8. Campus by Vampire Weekend

Vampire Weekend has a poppy, up-beat sound. The group’s music is light, yet has deep, thoughtful lyrics. Campus is a song about a romance gone bad on campus. That’s one thing you don’t have to worry about with online courses!

9. Graduation Song by Vitamin C

If you graduate in or around 2000, chances are high that this song was played at your graduation, or at least at a graduation party you attended. This song lets us reminisce about the good old days of high school.

10. Harper Valley PTA by Jeannie C Riley

Oh the PTA. Who can forget the booster club and class parties? This song is all about the PTA, the group of busy moms that made all those memories possible.

As school wind down for the put your books down and kick back to some of these school-inspired songs.

22Apr/12Off

Becoming a DJ

April 22nd, 2012

Becoming a DJ is a dream job for many people who enjoy listening to music, playing instruments and composing music pieces. If you are always up to date on the latest releases and follow the music charts religiously, this may be the job for you.

So how do you launch your DJ career? Like many music careers, it takes some hard work, the right education and some planning.

Develop Your Talent

You probably already have some musical talent. Now is the time to develop that talent so you can turn it into a profession. Learn how to play an instrument, or multiple instruments, conduct music, write music, mix tracks or anything else about music that interests you.  Practice makes perfect. To get your start as a DJ, you’ll need lots of practice. Most DJs are musically talented, but not all of them were born that way. Just because you aren’t naturally a perfect pianist, doesn’t mean you can’t practice and become much better.

Earn Your Degree

Earning your degree will help you gain the knowledge and skills you need to be competitive in the music industry. This industry is already highly competitive, so anything you can do to make yourself stand out will help. Many colleges, and even some online colleges, offer music degrees. Consider either majoring or minoring in music so you can learn the theory, history and all the ins and outs of the industry.

Plan Well and Prepare

If you are still in college, and have decided you want to become a DJ, it’s not too early to start planning and preparing. Plan by deciding what areas of music you want to focus on. Some DJ work in very niche areas, which makes them more of an asset. You can start to find your area of expertise and develop it while you’re still in school. You can prepare for a career as a DJ by gaining as much experience as possible. When potential employers look at your resume and see that you have done internships, volunteered and developed your musical talent, they will be impressed.

The road to becoming a DJ is not an easy one, but it is one that can be conquered. By developing your talent, earning your degree and preparing while you’re still in school, you’ll be ready to take on the music industry when you graduate.

8Apr/12Off

Famous Musicians and Their College Degrees

April 8th, 2012

When you are jamming out to the radio, have you ever stopped to wonder what the artist’s background is? Some singers and musicians have risen to fame so quickly, or have been in the music industry for so long, that we forget they came from somewhere. They are from a city, have a family and lots of them even earned college degrees.

Whether they earned an art degree or a business administration degree, many famous singers have been to college.

Carri Underwood

This well-loved singer and American Idol winner has a degree in communications with an emphasis in journalism. She graduated from Northeastern State University in Oklahoma.

John Legend

Legend, the famous R&B singer and songwriter earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Pennsylvania.

Kenny Chesney

If you are a country fan, you probably love Chesney. He earned a bachelor’s degree in advertising at East Tennessee State University.

Rivers Cuomo 

This Weezer band member attended Harvard University where he earned his bachelor’s in American Literature.

Brian May

May, the guitarist for Queen, has a bachelor’s degree in physics and mathematics from Imperial College London.

Greg Graffin

This artist, from the group Bad Religion, has a Ph.D. in zoology from the prestigious Cornell University.

David Banner

Banner, a skilled rapper, has a bachelor’s degree in business from Southern University in Louisiana.

Stat Quo

Another rapper, Stat Quo also has a degree in business. He earned his degree in international business and economics from the University of Florida.

Damian Kulash

OK Go’s frontman, Kulash has a bachelor’s degree in art semiotics from Brown University.

M.I.A.

This famous rapper attended Central St. Martin’s College of Art and Design in London where she earned a bachelor’s of fine art, film and video.

Lisa Loeb

This talented singer and songwriter earned her bachelor’s degree in comparative literature from Brown University.

Next time you rock out to your favorite artist, don’t forget that chances are they have earned a college degree, which may have helped them get where they are today.

31Mar/12Off

How to Start a Music Career

March 31st, 2012

If you have a knack for playing the piano, have a great singing voice or are a force to be reckoned with on the drums, you may want to consider a music career. This industry is often very hard to break into, but there are ways to have a career in music without having to start at the top.

Immerse Yourself

If you decide to major in music, you will learn all you need to know about writing music, instruments, musical scores and so much more in your school program. However, if you are majoring in something else, there are still ways to learn all about music. For example, many of the top online colleges offer online music classes. These classes are mostly theory and business related, so don’t slack off on your music lessons.

Play for Anyone Who Will Listen

Do all you can to play for others. This can be as complex as landing a show at a local club or as simple as posting YouTube videos of your songs on your music blog or handing out free CDs. One of the keys to working in the music industry is being heard. If you can find a manager, or gain a following of fans who love your music, you are well on your way to making a career doing what you love. Share your music with family, friends, coworkers, and anyone else who will listen.

Do What You Can

Volunteering in an elementary school music classroom or teaching violin lessons to a fellow student may not be the most glamorous music jobs, but they are a start. Taking these kinds of jobs not only builds your resume, but also gives you valuable experience and can open doors you never knew were available. Working in the music field, not matter how low the job may seem, is also an excellent way to make connections with people who can help you build your music career.

Working in the music industry isn’t always easy, but it is possible. By immersing yourself in the world of music, getting your sounds out there and landing small, but valuable music jobs are all ways you can get your start.

 

17Mar/12Off

Paying For College By Teaching Music Lessons

March 17th, 2012

It’s no secret that paying for college can be tough. Even with scholarships, grants and student loans, many college students work while they are enrolled in classes. If you’re one of these students, you don’t necessarily have to work a typical student job as a waitress, store clerk or pizza delivery person. You could earn some extra cash by teaching music lessons.

If you’re talented with the piano, violin, drums or any other instrument, teaching music lessons is the perfect way to earn money while doing something you enjoy. In fact, teaching music lessons is an excellent addition to your resume. If you are pursuing a teaching career where you help students refine their musical talents, this is great experience.

Here are some tips on how you can start teaching music lessons to pay for college.

1. Choose a Niche

It may seem obvious, but the first thing you need to do is choose a niche. You might be very talented in several areas of music, but to be the most successful, you need to start with one area. Then, as you gain students and more experience, you can branch out into other areas. However, don’t let your focus become too narrow, and stifle new opportunities.

2. Find a Location

Decide where you will teach your lessons. Many music teachers have students come right to their home. If you aren’t comfortable with that, see if there is a room on campus you can reserve on a regular basis. Some cities have community centers where people can schedule rooms. Check around your area and see what is available.

3. Advertise

Once you have the basics like a niche and location set up, you can start advertising to potential students. Sometimes it’s all about who you know. Spread the word among friends and on Facebook that you are teaching lessons. You’ll be surprised at how many people are in your own circle of influence. You can also advertise with fliers and signs. Find out if you are allowed to post fliers around campus; this is the perfect place to start. Also consider posting fliers at grocery stores, day care centers and elementary schools.

As you start to take on students, keep things in balance. Determine how much time you are willing to put into this job each week, and schedule accordingly. Of course, you want to have as many students as possible, but you don’t want to take on more than you can handle.

When you start teaching lessons, word will spread, and your music teaching business will grow. Good luck!

3Mar/12Off

How to Apply For Music Scholarships

March 3rd, 2012

If you have a real talent for music, you should definitely consider applying for music scholarships. Scholarships are a great way to help pay your college tuition, and, unlike student loans, they don’t have to be paid back.

So, how do you go about landing these scholarships? Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Practice, Practice, Practice

Since these scholarships are based on talent, and not grades, you’ll need to perfect your musical talent. Don’t skip lessons, and don’t short change yourself on practice time. Also, look for ways to expand your talent. Even when you’ve reached a high point, find a way to stretch yourself with a new song or a new technique.

2. Explore Your Resources

Meet with your college adviser and ask about music scholarships available. He or she will be able to point you in the right direction, and tell you about requirements and deadlines. Also, talk with someone in the music department. The department may be aware of more scholarships available and give you advice about the application process.

There are also music scholarships available through other organizations, not just your school. Do some Internet searching to find music associations, student associations, non-profits and even city departments that offer music scholarships.

3. Gather Requirements

Some music scholarships require a recording of one of your performances, some require letters of recommendation, and most require a formal application. Read the scholarship entry requirements very carefully, and gather all the things you’ll need to send with your application.

4. Apply to Several Scholarships

The best way to get the most out of scholarship application efforts is to apply to as many scholarships as you can. Chances are, you will only be awarded a few, or even one, of the music scholarships you apply for. The more applications you send in, the higher your chances will be of being awarded a scholarship.

Music scholarships can be hard to get, and candidates are often competitive. But, with some hard work, perfected talent and detailed applications, you just might qualify for paid tuition!

24Feb/12Off

“A Symphony of British Music’’ at London Olympics

February 24th, 2012

Recently, organizers from the 2012 Olympics, to be held in London, announced the theme of the games’ closing ceremony: “A Symphony of British Music.”

The ceremony will feature classic British songs sung by both legendary singers and new artists. It has already been announced that the London Symphony Orchestra will play for a portion of the ceremony that highlights the history of British music. Hundreds of schoolchildren and 3,500 volunteers will also participate in the show.

Big-name guests have yet to be announced, but names like Paul McCartney, the Spice Girls and The Rolling Stones have been tossed around as speculators provide theories about the ceremony. The only thing organizers have revealed about the featured musicians is that they will all be British.

One British singer who is experiencing enormous success is Adele. The singer and songwriter attended the Grammys this month and went home with six awards, one of which was for album of the year. Adele also won two trophies at the Brit music awards. Adele’s success isn’t limited to Britain or the United States, with adoring fans all over the world, many hoping to watch her perform at the Olympics.

Kim Gavin is the artistic director for the closing ceremony, and has some incredible experience in the music industry. He directed the 2007 Princess Diana Memorial Concert in London and worked on the soundtracks for “Casino Royale” and “Quantum of Solace,” as well as the television show “Sherlock.”

However, Gavin isn’t the only highly experienced member of the team. Designer Es Devlin is the artist behind some of the tour sets for Kanye West, Jay Z and Lady Gaga. The ceremony’s lighting director, Patrick Woodroofe has worked with the Rolling Stones and Elton John.

As the world watches athletes compete in the Olympic Games, anticipation for the closing ceremony will grow. Almost as traditional as the competitive sports, the ceremony is a way for everyone, those who participated in the Olympics and those who enjoyed the games on television, to keep the spirit of the Olympics alive.

 

10Feb/12Off

8tracks

February 10th, 2012

Playlist fans rejoice! This app makes it possible to enjoy real, human-created playlists that fit your personality and music tastes. 8tracks is an excellent alternative to Pandora and other music playlist services.

By bringing the human element into creating playlists, 8tracks has successfully replicated the job of old-school DJs and mix tapes. Back in the “olden days,” playlist creating was an art. People spent time creating the perfect mix of tunes for their friends to enjoy or to play at events. This art is still practiced on the radio, where lots of people discover new music.

Unfortunately, in many instances, that personal touch has been replaced with services like Pandora, that use computer algorithms to find tracks users might like, then create playlists. This style of music searching has its merits, and works for some. But, by having playlists created by listeners with the same taste in music that you have, you are much more likely to enjoy your lists and find new artists that you love.

8tracks is an app that features playlists created by music lovers. It offers you the chance to search through playlists created by people just like you. You can search for playlists by mood, genre, category and freeform tags. 8tracks even features playlists from

well-known music curators, so you know you’re getting the good stuff.

When you download the app, you can find certain DJs by their style of music. Then,

you can decide to “follow” that DJ and see all their latest playlists. You also have the chance to bookmark your favorite mixes. That way you can listen to the same playlist again without having to search for it.

8tracks makes it possible for you to become your own DJ, and create playlists based on your favorite artists and genres. You can save your lists and even share them with friends.

Featured by TIME, Wired and Mashable, this app is a must-have for every student. Whether you are attending your local community college or one of the best online schools, you’ll need this app to keep you energetic while studying.

5Feb/12Off

How to Use Music To Study

February 5th, 2012

Music can either help or hinder when you are trying to study. Yes, it can be a major distraction and keep you from doing your homework as well as you could. However, if you use it in the right way, music can actually be helpful while you’re working on your term paper.

Choose Wisely

Figure out what kind of music distracts you the most, and avoid it during study time. Most people do well when they listen to classical music or music that doesn’t have lyrics. If you aren’t the Mozart type, try some peaceful movie soundtracks. This music can blend into the background of your thoughts, and let you focus on the task at hand.

Watch the Volume

Don’t pump the music up so loud that you can’t hear yourself think. Some quiet background noise is what you are going for when you are trying to do your homework. Listening to music at a softer volume can help you ignore distractions like people passing by and chatty library patrons, but won’t distract you from your homework.

Know When to Make a Change

Even the best intentions can fall through. If you find yourself getting sucked into the music, switch to a different artist or style of music. This can help keep your brain alert and prevent you from zoning out while you’re trying to concentrate.

Stick with the Usual

Depending on your personality, listening to brand new music can be distracting. While it’s good to change it up, try to stay within the realm of music you are familiar with. When your mind tries to follow a new melody or new lyrics, it can keep you from doing what you need to do for class.

Next time you sit down at the library and turn on your music, try some of these tips to make sure your music helps, and doesn’t harm your study habits.

27Jan/12Off

5 Songs for the Medical Profesional

January 27th, 2012

There are all kinds of themes in music. Some, like love, peace and life’s struggles are common, others, like say, the medical field, are not so common at all. Here are five songs that are sure to amuse every dentist, nurse practitioner and pediatric doctor.

1. “Dental Care” – Owl City

I’ve been to the dentist a thousand times
So I know the drill, I smooth my hair
Sit back in the chair
But somehow I still get the chills

The lyrics of “Dental Care” are fun and upbeat. The song is sung from the point of view of someone who is nervous to go to the dentist. Who can’t relate to that?

2. “Take Up Thy Stethoscope And Walk” – Pink Floyd

Doctor Doctor I’m in bed
Doctor Doctor aching head
Doctor Doctor gold is lead

This Pink Floyd song’s lyrics are sort of vague, but one thing is for sure, the singer is calling for his doctor’s help!

3. “Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor)” – John Moon Martin

Doctor, doctor, give me the news
I’ve got a bad case of lovin’ you
No pill’s gonna cure my ill
I’ve got a bad case of lovin’ you

The singer in this song has fallen for his doctor, and throughout the tune he pleads with her to reveal her feelings. With romantic lyrics and a great tune, this song is a must-listen.

4. “Night Nurse” – Gregory Isaacs

Tell her try her best just to make it quick
Woman tend to the sick
‘Cause there must be something she can do
This heart is broken in two
Tell her it’s a case of emergency
There’s a patient by the name of Gregory 

This song is a cry for help from a man who is broken hearted, hoping his nurse can cure him. After all, nurses can heal anything, right?

5. “Seen the Doctor” – Michael Penn

I loved a girl once
beyond compare
She saw inside me
and gave me air
She was assisting
my surgery 

Another medical song with a romance theme, “Seen the Doctor” is about a patient who fell in love with his nurse. The patient-nurse theme is a popular one, and this list wouldn’t be complete without it!

These songs are fun and some are romantic, you really can’t go wrong with any of them!

21Jan/12Off

Legendary Singer Etta James Passes Away

January 21st, 2012

The “Matriarch of R&B”, as Etta James was known as, passed away on January 20, 2012. James recorded blues, R&B, rock and roll, jazz, soul and gospel hits. Not many modern artists can say they are experts in so many genres, making James a true legend. In fact, many credit James with successfully combining blues and rhythm with rock and roll.

James’ mark on the music industry extends even beyond being credited with combining music genres. The artist was also honored by the Rolling Stone when they listed her as number 22 of the 100 greatest singers of all time and number 62 on on their list of the 100 greatest artists.

At the very young age of five, James started singing and attended vocal lessons. When Jame was 14, she formed a girl’s singing group called the Creolettes. As the group gained popularity and signed to a record label, their name was changed to the Peaches. This is when Etta James became known as Etta James. Her real name is Jamesetta Hawkins, but she rearranged the parts of her first name to form a stage name.

James’ career continued through her teen years as she brushed shoulders with legends like B.B. King, whom she dated at the age of 16. Her career hit a high point with famous songs like “Dance With Me, Henry,” “At Last,” “Tell Mama” and “I’d Rather Go Blind.”

James’ music career earned her an amazing six Grammy Awards and 17 Blues Music Awards. She was also inducted into several halls of fame: the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Blues Hall of Fame and the Grammy Hall of Fame on two occasions. She continued singing even into the later years, releasing new albums and performing at concerts.

In 2011, James was diagnosed with terminal leukemia and she passed away on January 20 in Riverside, California with her husband and sons at her side.

14Jan/12Off

Top 10 School-Related Tracks

January 14th, 2012

From Pink Floyd to the Jackson 5 and The Clash, there are lots and lots of tacks about school life out there. Here, in no particular order are the top 10 tracks inspired by school days.

1. “Another Brick In The Wall” – Pink Floyd

You can’t help but sing along to this classic when it come on the radio. All about students who feel they are mistreated by their teachers and their call to rebellion and unity, every student can relate to this track.

2. “Campus” – Vampire Weekend

In Campus, Vampire Weekend captures the angst and pressure that comes along with college romance. The catchy song is sung from the point of view of a love-stricken student.

3. “Going Away To College” – Blink-182

Another song centered around dating, this track from Blink-182 tells the classic story of a boy in love with a girl who goes away to college.

4. “Grade 9″ – Barenaked Ladies

In this track, the Barenaked Ladies describe everyone’s first day of ninth grade: a lost lunch, trying out for football, running from upperclassmen and doing your best not to look clueless.

5. “ABC” – Jackson 5

This list wouldn’t be complete with the all-time favorite ABC by the Jackson 5. This upbeat track with lyrics everyone knows, went down in history and will forever be on the radio.

6. “Pizza Day” – The Aquabats

Another song about the first day of school, Pizza Day details how the first day of school for an every-day kid usually goes.

7. “Sadie Hawkins Dance” – Reliant K

Remember all those awkward yet exciting school dances? Sadie Hawkins Dance by Reliant K lets you walk down memory lane.

8. “School” – Nirvana

This simple track is all about getting to high school and having no recess. Oh the sacrifices that come with growing up.

9. “Graduation Day” – Beach Boys

This old-school tune (no pun intended) wraps memories of graduation, prom and high school romance all in one. Another classic from the Beach Boys!

10. “Mark Me Absent” – The Clash

This track is another song about rebellion. It’s all about the feeling every high school student has: I don’t need school.

Next time you are studying for your biology test or your accounting classes, add some of these songs to your playlist!

7Jan/12Off

The Best of 2011

January 7th, 2012

As we look back on the past year, there are definitely some songs and artists that stand out. Billboard has compiled a list of what critics deem the 20 best singles that came out in 2011. Whether you agree or disagree on the idea that these are the best of the year, these songs and artists are definitely worth checking out.

20. We Found Love  - Rihanna, featuring Calvin Harris

Fans of Rihanna will love this electro house and dance-pop hit. When this song hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100, Rihanna became the first solo artist to have 20 top-ten singles on the Billboard Hot 100.

 

 

 

19. Midnight City – M83

M83 is a French band that plays electronic/dream pop music. Midnight City was the first single from the band’s sixth album, called Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming.

 

 

 

18. Hell on Wheels – Pistol Annies

The Pistol Annies is a country group that has gained quite the following. Amazingly, Hell on Wheels is from the band’s first album.

 

 

 

17. I’m On One – DJ Khaled

This catchy hip hop song comes from DJ Khaled’s album called We the Best Forever. With featured artists Drake, Rick Ross and Lil Wayne, this song has it all!

 

 

 

16. Wildfire – SBTRKT

SBTRKT, which is pronounced “subtract” is actually Aaron Jerome. This hit song has caught on in the music world and found its way to the top.

 

 

 

15. Take Care – Drake, featuring Rihanna

This hit by rapper Drake that features Rihanna is excellent. You can’t help but listen to this song, about finding love after losing love once before, over and over again.

 

 

 

14. Beat of My Drum – Nicola Roberts

Beat of My Drum is from Roberts’ first solo album, Cinderella’s Eyes, and is also the first single from the album.

 

 

 

13. Lotus Flower – Radiohead

Lotus Flower, from the extremely famous band Radiohead, was nominated for three Grammy Awards for Best Rock Performance, Best Rock Song and Best Short Form Music Video.

 

 

12. Countdown – Beyonce

Beyonce herself helped write Countdown, so you know it will be a winner. Beyonce has said that when she wrote the song, she set out to combine the music of the 90′s and the 70′s.

 

 

11. Whirring – The Joy Formidable

This song comes from the welsh alternative rock band, The Joy Formidable. Originally, Whirring was released on The Joy Formidable’s debut album.

 

 

 

10. Rolling in the Deep – Adele

Adele helped write this song and described it as a “dark blues-y gospel disco tune.” Adele’s strong voice carries this song as it touches your soul.

 

 

 

9. Look at Me Now – Chris Brown, featuring Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne

You know a Chris Brown song that features Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne is going to be good. This hit was written by the three artists, as well as a few other song writers.

 

 

 

8. The Edge of Glory – Lady Gaga

The Edge of Glory was first released as a promotional track for Lady Gaga’s album Born This Way. But, the song took off and became a hit single.

 

 

 

7. Holocene – Bon Iver

This indie folk song is the second single from the album Holocene. It has been nominated for two Grammy Awards (Song of the Year and Record of the Year) and is used in the popular movie We Bought a Zoo.

 

 

 

6. Novacane – Frank Ocean

Novacane comes from Ocean’s popular album Nostalgia, Ultra. Don’t miss this catchy tune.

 

 

 

 

5. Motivation – Kelly Rowland, featuring Lil Wayne

This hit, feating Lil Wayne is a great listen. As soon as Motivation was released, critics raved over the sound of this R&B song.

 

 

 

4. N***as in Paris – Jay-Z and Kanye West

This Jay-Z and Kanye West song is all about the life of a celebrity. The artists sing lyrics about their lifestyle and you can’t help but listen.

 

 

3. Til The World Ends – Britney Spears

Yes, Spears is back. This single is an electropop hit that will make you want to get up and dance!

 

 

 

2. Someone Like You – Adele

Big-time artist Adele has two songs on the list. Her song Someone Like You tells the story of one of Adele’s past relationships, and how she learned to cope with it coming to an end.

 

 

 

1. Super Bass – Nicki Minaj

And the number one single of the year is Super Bass. This song comes from Minaj’s debut album called Pink Friday. Super Bass is Pink Friday’s seventh single.