A Pop-Punk Christmas

I'm tad bit late on posting this, but it's better late than never! Since I missed Christmas this year, you can have this playlist ready for next year! I picked out my personal favorite ORIGINAL pop-punk Christmas songs. Some may or may not be covers that I just haven't heard... Anyways, I got sick of listening to the same songs every year during Christmas, so I came up with my own. Hopefully you guys like a few of these too and they can give you a break from the endless cycle of unoriginal Christmas carols.

1) Yule Shoot Your Eye Out- Fall Out Boy
        (My personal favorite Christmas song in general!)
2) 12 Days of a Pop-Punk Christmas- Sunrise Skater Kids
       (Hilarious!)
3) Fool's Holiday- All Time Low
4) I Won't Be Home For Christmas- Blink 182
5) Merry Christmas, Kiss My Ass- All Time Low
6) Nothing For Christmas- New Found Glory
7) I Don't Wanna Spend Another Christmas Without You- The Ready Set
8) Santa Stole My Girlfriend- The Maine
         (I also found this quite funny)
9) Merry Christmas I missed You So Much- Taking Back Sunday
10) My Christmas List- Simple Plan
          (Sounds very similar to my own Christmas list...)

Of course, these are my personal favorites. You can hate them for all I care. These are just the songs I was playing this Christmas. Next year maybe I'll post a list of my favorite Christmas covers. They'll be on time next year! Because let's be honest, Brendon Urie's cover of "White Christmas" is amazing! The Summer Set has a pretty good Christmas cover out there too...
Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays! Happy New Year!!!!

Best Friend Murder Prank

If you haven't heard about this video than you must not have any connections to the outside world. What a sad life! A video titled "Best Friend Murder Prank ft. Sam and Colby" was uploaded by the already controversial Youtuber Sam Pepper. Sam Pepper is 26 years old. He's been on Youtube for roughly five years. He started out as a rising Youtube sensation. He was well known for his pranking videos as well as his collars with other Youtubers like Marcus Butler, Mark Ludford, Pointless Blog (Alfie Deyes), Harrison Webb, Mazzi Maz, and JacksGap. Of course there are many other names. The YouTube family is a close one.
In 2014 things took a turn for the worse for Sam Pepper. He was accused of sexually harassing multiple women in the UK. He also release his first extremely controversial video. It was a video of him going up and pinching girls butts. However, he did not physically touch them. There was also a follow up video of a female Youtuber doing the same thing to men. They then filmed a video explaining that they were doing a social experiment on gender and double standards. Sam was the only one to get backlash from the videos. He wasn't formally charged of anything. The honest truth is that nobody other than Sam himself knows what did or did not happen.

Sam Golbach and Colby Brock came to fame through Vine. Their videos were mainly public disturbances and skits. The duo got such a large following on the app that they decided to go to Youtube. The two have been friends for five years. They grew up in the same Kansas town and went to the same high school. Needless to say they are best friends going on life's adventure together. Both are fresh out of high school and just moved to LA where they met their friend Sam Pepper.
The three came across each other somehow and ended up spending some quality time together. After a couple days, they decided to film a collaboration. Sam Pepper and Colby decided to prank Sam Golbach because Sam Golbach was always pranking Colby. That's how this video came to be.
Sam Pepper kidnapped Sam and Colby while they were having "car problems" in an alley. Colby is in on the prank. The two of them put Sam Golbach in the trunk of the car and take him to a roof top somewhere in LA. Sam Pepper removes the bag over Sam's head so that he can see Colby kneeling off to the side with a bag still draped over his face. Sam reassures his friend that everything will be okay. Sam Pepper gives him one last look at Colby's face before firing a blank at Colby's head. Sam's reaction is pure, real emotion. There was nothing fake to it. If it was, he definitely needs an award!
The trio didn't realize that the video would get so much attention in such a short amount of time. It has been covered on National news and plastered all over the internet. A petition to take down Sam Pepper's channel also surfaced. Youtubers spoke up saying that Sam took the prank too far and needed to take the video down. People were speaking on behalf of Sam Golbach and saying that he was suffering from things like PTSD and that he was having trouble going outside and sleeping at night. None of which is true. Colby came under fire for being a "dick of a friend". Colby explained that he knew what Sam's limits were that he would be okay once he realized everything was alright. Sam Pepper was also aware of Sam's limits and knew the boundaries. Sam Golbach spoke up and said that he had actually been expecting a prank to happen to him. Not to mention he had two weeks to tell Sam Pepper and Colby that he didn't want to video to go up. Sam also said that he was thankful because the whole experience brought him and Colby closer together as friends. Other people have also reached out to Sam and Colby and told them that because of the video they became closer with the people that they love.
There is a message in the video that everybody is overlooking. Life is short. Anything can happen. Tell the people you love that you love them now. Go and live your life. Keep your friends close. Appreciate what you have and who you have in your life. Don't take a damn thing for granted. In my opinion that was actually an amazing video. You just have to look at it from the perspective that they were looking at it. As for the reaction Sam Pepper is getting, I think it's not deserved. There are more important things that we should pay attention to. The only reason he's getting so much heat from this is because he already had a bad reputation. The truth is, nobody knows Sam Pepper personally and what he's done. Until we know for sure, people should just lay off of him.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBvX5dNdMK8

After Romeo

After Romeo is the pure definition of a boy band. BUT they are amazing artists! The band consists of Jayk Purdy (29), Drew Ryan Scott (27), TC Carter (22), and Blake English (21). Former member Devin Fox (18) left to pursue a solo career. Each member of the band contributes something specific to band aside from vocals. Jayk does most of the social media content. TC, which stands for Thomas Carter, is in charge of fashion. He does a pretty good job if I do say so myself. Blake does the choreography for the group while Drew writes a majority of their songs.
The members are from Athens and Las Vegas. They came together in L.A. courtesy of Drew in 2013. As I mentioned before, they started out with 5. So, the five of them started posting videos on Youtube. They caught the eyes of some record producers and are currently signed on to 4 Sound Entertainment's record label. As a band of 5 they released 3 singles. The first being "Free Fall" in 2013. The released a Christmas single, "Save Some Snow" that same year. In 2014, they released what is probably their biggest single "Love On Lock (LOL)". That just so happens to be my jam. After Devin left, the band continued to write music and post videos. Their first single of 2015 had the fitting title of "Juliet". They also released "Where The People Go", which is probably my second favorite from them. Yesterday they released a surprise titled "Souvenir". It's clear that losing Devin didn't deter the band. They are working on an album "The Story Continues". I personally cannot wait to see what all these four can do!

For only being together for a short period of time and not having much publicity, they are doing pretty well. The "Free Fall" music video reached number one on MTV's music chart and was also featured on international advertisements. Most of the time it takes an artist forever to be able to get their music international. In 2014 they launched into the Italian music market. The band has also reached number six on Radio Disney's countdown. The thing that stands out to me the most though is the fact that these boys started a Bully Proof Tour where they toured across the U.S. to stop and talk to students about bullying. They would go to the schools to speak and then perform in the city/town on the weekend. They group has also toured around the U.S. on the 2015 Pop Nation Tour.
I really don't know what else to say about this band. I honestly don't know as much about them as I do other bands, but I do know that these boys are talented and entertaining. They are definitely a boy band, no doubt, but there is something special about them that I can't quite put my finger on. They are just four hard working boys trying to make their dreams come true. I admire that. If you are ever board, look them up. You could find a new music obsession.

Catharsis Playlist

(We're about to get personal)
I cannot be the only one that has those moments where I need to cry. I don't want to cry, but I NEED to cry. I discovered that at these said times, certain songs helps the process along. Not only does this playlist allow me to ball my freaking eyes out, there are also songs that help me kind of reflect on the better times in life and make me feel a little bit better. It my "Catharsis Playlist". I think everybody needs to have one! I suggest you pick songs that you have a connection to, whether it be a good or bad memory or even a person. It helps if you're familiar with the artist as well because it makes it more personal. Most importantly, make sure that you relate to it lyrical wise. That's the whole point to this playlist! It lets you relate to something for a little while and just let go and cry!
1) Untitled- Simple Plan
2) Hotel Ceiling- Rixton
3) Live Forever ft. Faydee- DJ James Yammouni (of The Janoskians)
4) Amnesia- 5 Seconds of Summer
5) 3000 Miles- Emblem3
6) Ghost- Hollywood Ending
7) You Will Not Be Forgotten- Keaton Stromberg (of Emblem3)
8) The Memory- Mayday Parade
9) Letting Go- Mayday Parade
10) Wasted- MKTO
11) Once in a Lifetime- One Direction
12) Infinity- One Direction
13) Broken Home- 5 Seconds of Summer
14) The Only Reason- 5 Seconds of Summer
15) Hello- Emblem3 cover

This has actually helped me out a lot. It's dumb, it's cheesy, it's a waste of time to put together a depressing playlist. It really does help though! Take it from a professional in the area of mental breakdowns! :) 

Open Letter to One Direction

Dear One Direction,
5 years, 3 months, and 17 days ago the five of you were put in to a group. At the time you didn't have any clue how that moment would change your lives. You didn't know that that moment would change the lives of thousands of people, including my own. You walked in completely clueless, with no idea what you were doing. You walked out with more knowledge and life experience than most people will ever get. The 5 of you were more than happy to share it all with hundreds of people you've never met. You guys were and still are an inspiration, friends to many, family to others, and a constant comfort for thousands. One Direction kept going after losing the X-Factor. You became the biggest band on the planet. You kept going after losing family, friends, and eventually your freedom. You literally gave up everything to give your fans everything they ever needed or wanted.
I'm the fan that never saw you in person. I didn't spend hours trying to gain your attention. I listened to your music instead and realized that I already had your attention. I didn't pay attention to the amount of awards you won. I paid attention to all the good you did in the world. By finding meaning and inspiration in the band and in your individuality, I was able to find a little light during a dark time in my life. Ever since then One Direction has been a constant in my life. I was always able to escape with a song or a video. I gained the false impression that you would always be together, always be there. Now I'm saying thank you, good-bye, and letting go.
Thank you for being an escape. I know you still will be. This isn't really good-bye either. You promised to never really leave us. Your music will always be there no matter what. That will be there whether you're together or apart. The meaning in the music and behind the band will still exist. I will still have an escape. It will just be nothing new. Thank you for 5 years of new music, videos, concerts, interviews, and other random means of escape for me and many others. Thank you for giving me a huge family of people that feel similar to the way I do, that understand and relate. Thank you for giving up your lives to make me feel better about my own. Thank you for giving me hope. Most importantly, thank you for helping me find happiness again. Thank you for helping me become me. Thank you for being there when no one else was. This isn't good-bye. It's more like see you later. But I am letting go and moving on. Thank you!
You loved the time you were together. Now enjoy the time you have apart. Take the break that you all so well deserve. Just make sure that you don't forget about us because there is no way that we will ever be able to forget about you.
Love,
The Directioners

The Tide

The Tide is a band that most have not heard of. If you have, I guarantee it's because you are a dedicated fan of The Vamps. The Tide was formed by the british band in 2014. The Vamps announced a secret project in December of 2014 and they held auditions for guitarists and drummers to form a band. The band the put together was The Tide.
Austin Corini is the lead singer of the band. He also plays guitar. He's from Gilroy, California. Austin auditioned for The X-Factor in 2012. He sang an amazing cover of "Wanted" by Hunter Hayes. He didn't make it past boot camp on his own. They put him together with other boys to form the group, Playback. However, the group didn't make it past the judge's houses. This was the same year that Emblem3 was on The X-Factor, so Austin knows the boys. Drew Dirksen is the lead guitarist and contributes vocals. He is from Ohio, as is his band mate Nate Parker. Nate is the drummer. Levi is the bassist and the last piece to the puzzle. He is from southern California.
The band officially formed in 2015. They made their debut together on the internet on February 25, 2015. They posted a cover of 5 Seconds of Summers "She Looks So Perfect". I'm not a fan of covers from my favorite artists, but I actually really liked their version of the song. Since they actually caught my attention by doing my favorite song, I decided it was worth my while to check out who they were and to keep up with the newly formed band. I'm glad I did, because since their formation they have posted many other great covers on their youtube channel. They have also posted an acoustic version of one of their original songs, "Falling in Love Tonight". As of right now, the band sticks to covers, but they do perform originals live, like "What you Give" and "The Rest of Us". The band plans on releasing an EP or maybe even an album in 2016.
 Since their formation, they have been on tour with The Vamps. The accompanied them on their 2015 tour along with Before You Exit. They also played at 2015 Fanfest and the Big Ticket Summer Concert Series. They have performed next artists such as Union J and Luke Friend. The band is also planning on a 2016 tour. In order to release an EP and follow it up with a tour, it's best to have a record label, right? Well, The Vamps signed the band on to their own record label, EMI Universal. That was their big announcement/secret project in December of 2014. The Vamps also had them do a major cameo in their latest video for their single "Wake Up" along with Brooklyn Beckham.
So, what can you expect from The Tide? Their style and their influence is rather different, which I find interesting. They have a wide range in taste. Their musical style is pop. The band has even admitted to it. However, they also throw in the fact that their main influences are 5 Seconds of Summer and All Time Low. They want to become a similar band. Mayday Parade and Sleeping With Sirens are also have an influence on the band. Going in a totally opposite direction, the band looks up to singer/song writers like Ed Sheeran and even Shawn Mendes who is younger than the members in the band.

I adore this band as whole and love each of it's members. They are so down to earth. All four of them are absolutely adorable. The best part is that I can say that they are hot without feeling like a pedophile because they are all 17-18 years old! So, not only are they talented, kind, and entertaining, they are very nice to look at. Looks aren't that important though. What is, is the fact that these four boys are talented and dedicated to their music and to their fans. I love, love, love them! I can't wait to see what the future holds for them. They have the world at their finger tips! I'm going to love telling people that I knew them long before they were famous. 

SOUNDS GOOD FEELS GOOD

Sounds good. Feels better. The new 5SOS album is pure gold. Granted, I am a little bias because I am a huge fan of the group, but I am not the only one praising the work produced by these fine young lads and a few of their friends and idols. Many people admire the fact that, yes, the album is a little "soft" for being considered punk, but they are still able to channel that genre clearly in certain songs and with certain lyrics. While doing this, they also managed to gear all of their songs towards their audience lyrical wise. The band is well aware of the struggles that their fans go through and who is in their fan base age wise. They did a great job making the album appropriate for them while still making it enjoyable for those that don't exactly fit in to the group.
I'm not going to take a huge musical stance on the album. They showed off their instrumental talent by crushing guitar solos and mastering difficult, yet catchy riffs. Don't even get me started on the imperfectly perfect vocals provided by every member of the band. My judgement is a lot more based on the meaning behind it all. Every single song on that album has a meaning in it that is clear to find. The title of the album fits it very VERY well. You definitely feel something after listening to it. If you can't catch the overall meaning of it or the messages in the songs, then it's time to exit their fandom.
This album has a lot of meaning to the four Aussies. It's literally their life. You can hear the emotions they were feeling when they wrote the songs through the vocals. Every song tells a story of some kind. You just have to listen and find it. Some of them are more clear than others. "Broken Home" was a major shout out from drummer Ashton Irwin. Fans caught on to this immediately after the album was released and got the song title trending on Twitter. Invisible easily puts the focus on feeling like you don't belong and don't really matter to the world, but at the same time it delivers the message that you've got to stay positive. The longest song on the album "Outer Space/Carry On" is basically about the same thing, but it focuses more on the message of carrying on.
It's obvious to me that this album was also meant to start a movement within their fandom. They've got to start somewhere, right? They were able to rally their fans in to the New Broken Scene before the record was released. Then in the first single "She's Kinda Hot", they delivered the explanation for The New Broken Scene. "They say we're losers and we're alright with that. We are the leaders of the not coming backs." "Hey Everybody" is an uplifting song that screams at you to realize that you don't have to live your life the way people want you to. "Hey everybody, we don't have to live this way." My favorite? "Permanent Vacation". This is the first song that comes to my head when I think about this movement that the band is starting. Every verse in that song is a diss towards the way we live. The end verses Michael sings, "Congratulations, your imitations are taking over the radio stations. Corporations, calculations. We're the voice of the new generation." A bold statement for the band, but needless to say, a very true one. This song is the anthem for The New Broken Scene. (In my opinion anyways.)
Okay, this has gotten lengthy enough. Bottom line is that this album means a lot to me and the boys themselves. If you're in to the whole lyrical meaning things, you'll love this. If you like punk-pop, then you'll find something to love on here. More of the "She Looks So Perfect" type? No problem. You can probably find your new favorite song on here. Sounds Good Feels isn't the best album, but it's pretty damn amazing. They are progressing greatly as a band. I can't wait for their third album!

Inside Out

Not many people know the name David Scarezone, but I believe that they should. This multi-talented 19 year old just released his first EP and it's close to perfection. I love David! David was born in the Chicagoland area on February 7, 1996. He started performing at the age of 9 with a group called MWAH! MWAH stands for Messages Which Are Hopeful. The group toured through the U.S. spreading positive messages about teen issues. When David turned 13 he focused more on dance and musical theatre. He began traveling between L.A. and Chicago for training and auditions. Eventually, David just moved to L.A. where he is currently residing.

David is first on the left

David got his first big break when he nailed his audition for IM5. He became an official member of then boy band in May of 2014. He didn't stick with the band too long though. On October 20th, 2014 he left the group to pursue a solo career consisting of many different things. David is an amazing dancer and choreographer, so he started dabbling in that. Of course he has the voice of an angel. He is honing in on his acting skills and already has a great modeling portfolio. David is currently working along side some of my favorite people to exist in the universe: Keaton Stromberg, Tyler Case, and Spencer Sutherland.
David's first single "Ex-Men" was released on March 13, 2015. It was produced by Keaton. His second single "Sometimes" was released on June 23, 2015. The video features a whole lot of his buddies Tyler and Keaton along with Spencer Sutherland as Mr. Steal Your Girl. His EP Inside out was released today, October 20th. The EP consists of 5 new songs. 1) Before You Go... 2) True Colors... 3) Believe in Love... 4) Sticks and Stones... 5) Eternity. The album has a different sound to it. It consists of techno beats and catchy pop lyrics. In my opinion it's very different then his other two singles, but there is still a similarity between all of his songs. In my opinion that's a unique trait in music.
My favorite song off the EP at the moment is "Eternity". Take a listen and find your own favorite! David is an amazing artist. I am so proud of him! I can't wait to see how far he takes his career. More people should come along for the ride :)

Personal Party Playlist

So, the past couple days I've been dying of nervousness. I went from Monday until tonight dealing with terrible anxiety. What was I so worked up about? I asked someone out. I got over everything that has happened to me the past couple of months and asked somebody I really liked out. I walked right in to his office and put all my cards out on the table. After recovering from his shock he asked if I wanted to go on a date. That was my whole reason for telling him I liked him in the first place, so I said yes. I panicked up until literally the very last minute. I pulled myself together at 4:44. We were meeting in our lobby at 4:45. In my opinion the date went well. When I got back to my room I felt like the weight of the world was lifted off my shoulders and I was SO happy and full of energy. I had nothing to do get that energy out, so I decided to do what most "normal" people would do. I threw my own personal dance party.

So, whenever you're feeling overwhelmingly happy and have no way to get out all of your pent up energy, or you want to gain some energy and happiness, start blaring these tracks and let loose. (Keep in mind, these aren't songs that you hear on the radio and my own personal playlist) 

1) I Feel Like Dancing- All Time Low 

2) Dangerous- Before You Exit

3) Not Your Birthday- Allstar Weekend

4)Talking About- Conor Maynard 

5) Best Song Every- One Direction

6) Teenage Kings- Emblem3

7) Tonight Tonight- Hot Chelle Rae

8) Groove- Jack and Jack

9) Party in the Penthouse- Jake Miller

10) Make Out- Rixton 

11) Wannabe- SpiceGirls 

12) Lightning in a Bottle- The SummerSet 

13) Check Yes Juliet- We The Kings 

14) I Can't Remember- 5 Seconds of Summer 

15) Can't Help- Parachute 

16) Go All Night- RadioDriveBy

17) Somebody That I Used to Know- Mayday Parade ft. Vic Fuentes 

18) Sarah Says- Hollywood Heartache 

19) Is It Just Me- Hinder 

20) Hallelujah!- Panic! At The Disco

The Summer Set!

The Summer Set has been a band since 2007. I've listened to them for a few years now, but obsession with them didn't start until this year. I honestly can't blame you if you haven't heard of them. However, you are missing out on an amazing band! The Summer Set is considered to be a pop-rock/pop-punk group, but power pop and alternative rock can be used to describe some of their songs. They have a unique sound. Most of it comes from the vocals of their lead singer Brain Logan Dales. The band also consists of John Gomez (guitar, piano, back-up vocals), Stephen James Gomez (bass), Josh Montgomery (guitar), and Jess Bowen (drums). Dillon Morris was a former member who played the guitar. The band is associated with many of my favorite bands like Paradise Fears and All Time Low, which is how I got so interested in them this year.
The band has released 8 albums and has gone through 3 labels. Their first EP, "Love The Love You Have EP", was self-released in 2007. They were picked up by the label, Militia Group. After they were signed they released two more EPs in 2008, "In Color" and "Meet Me on the Left Coast". They switched labels to Razor and Tie and released a fourth EP, "Love like This". In 2010 they expanded the album and re-titled it "Love Like Swift". In 2011 they put out a full length album, "Everything's Fine", along with another EP, "What Money Can't Buy". In 2012 they were picked up by their current label Fearless Records. Under their new label, they released their second full length album, "Legendary", in 2013. They band is currently working on a third album. All information about it is yet to be announced. It's rumored that it will be released in 2015, if so, they're running out of time!
The band refers to their fans as Half Moon Kids. This name was given to their fandom after "Legendary" was released. With the Half Moon Kids in mind, the band started the Legendary Moments Campaign. They helped various fans along with their own band members achieve life long goals. During this time, they were also awarded with Macy's iHeartradio Rising Star award. Their performance of "Lightening in a Bottle" during Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade was televised. Clearly 2013, was a huge year for the band!
The Summer Set has constantly put out music throughout their years as a band. It also seems like they've constantly been on tour since 2009. They opened for Alternative Press's AP Tour that year and have been touring ever since. In 2010 they payed Bamboozled Festival and Vans Warped Tour. 2001 consisted of the free OurZone Magazine tour in the UK and the Dirty Work Tour with All Time Low. They took a break from touring in 2012 only to pick up again in 2013 when they did another Vans Warped Tour. In 2014 they toured across the UK with Paradise Fears. (I would've killed to go to that tour!) They also did an acoustic tour to promote their "Legendary" album and played Vans Warped for the third time.

For not being very well known, they have accomplished a lot as a band. I'm proud to say that I am a Half Moon Kid. I love, love, love this band. Their sound is so unique that it always gives me goosebumps. If you're seriously looking for something new, you need to check them out! I almost forgot to mention that they are very entertaining people. Brain Logan Dales is extremely nice to look at and his personality will draw you in immediately. They personalities reflect in their music, which is probably why I love them so much. If you want to know what I'm talking about, I recommend listening to "Legendary" first. That is where the addiction starts! One listen and you'll be hooked. Good Luck! :)

The End of the World.... Tour Starring 5SOS

I am drowning in tears of emotion because my four young boys from Sydney Australia finished their first ever headlining world tour. I think I'm taking this harder than the end of their tours with One Direction. And that was the end of an era! It was two years of 5SOS and 1D. Now 5 Seconds of Summer are off on their own, headlining their own shows around the world. They went from filming in a bedroom with pink speakers, to playing gigs with 12 people, and ended up with a headlining world tour, playing to hundreds-sometimes thousands-of people every night.
If you don't know who 5SOS is, you're going to have to use this awesome thing called Google. I could go on forever over these boys. The basics I can handle. Despite their name, their are only 4 members. Luke Hemmings (guitar), Ashton Irwin (percussion), Calum Hood (bass), Michael Clifford (guitar). All four contribute vocals, but Luke is the front man. Ashton is the oldest at 21. The rest are 19. The band started out with just Luke, Calum, and Michael. Ashton joined shortly before their first gig. The band has released multiple EPs and two full length CDs. They have won plenty of awards in the short amount of time they've been in the spotlight. Most recently, they won MTVs Song of the Summer for the second year in a row. The first was because of their first single "She Looks So Perfect". This year the fuss was all about "She's Kinda Hot". The band has also started their own record company called "Hi or Hey Records". Also, they are punk-rock. Punk-pop is acceptable, but they are NOT a boy band.

As many people already know, they got a huge helping hand from One Direction when they were asked to open for them on their Take Me Home tour. They asked them to come back for parts of their Where We Are tour. So, yes, a good portion of their fan base are Directioners, but 5SOS still has a die-hard fandom that I'm proud to be a part of. The fans are what makes the band. The boys realize that. It's one of the reasons I love them so much. They know they owe everything to their fans and they give back everything they have. They are such down to earth amazing musicians. I honestly can't imagine my life without them in it. They have had a huge influence on me and the person that I am today. I have a lot to thank them for. They always tell their fans that they have a lot to thank us for, but really it's the least we could do.
I was lucky enough to attend one of their concerts for this tour, Rock Out With Your Socks Out. (Amazing name btw!) It was literally the best night of my life. The only time I have ever cried from joy was when my purchase went through for my tickets. The second time I cried because of happiness was when I saw the four of them walk out on to the stage in front of me. They put on the best show I have ever seen. They were bouncing all around, interacting with each other and the crowd, and they never missed a beat. They performed songs that haven't been released yet, their most popular ones, and for the ones that have been there since the beginning they played a few of their originals. They managed to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable. The best part was that they didn't hold back and hide who they really are. They were on stage doing what they love and being their weird, funny, adorable selves. They have a special talent that not many people posses.
The best part is that they're using their talent to spread a message, to show support for people who are struggling. They are using their name and talent to raise their voices and shed some light on issues and people that get over-looked. Towards the end of the tour, they announced that they are releasing their second full length album "Sounds Good Feels Good". Along with that, they started a new age. The age of the New Broken Scene. It's something that their fans can get behind, support, and allows them to be themselves according to the band. How many people create something just so their fans feel like they belong to something important? Actually, to show them that they are a part of something important. So, not only was it the end of their first world tour (cue tears), it was the start of something new, exciting, and meaningful. I wish that these boys could've stayed my little secret, but I am overwhelmed with joy that they are making a name for themselves and doing something to make a difference. They deserve the world. They've come so far and learned so much, but we still don't know if it's hi or hey.

BOOM!!

Simple Plan. Please for the love of God tell me you know who Simple Plan is. I mean, how could you not? You're totally uncultured if you have no clue who I'm talking about. Need a hint? Scooby-Doo. The band sang the theme song for "What's New Scooby-Doo", had two of their songs play during the cartoon, appeared in their own episode, and they had an original song "Don't Wanna Think About You" on Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed. Did that help at all? It better have. 

Simple Plan is a five piece rock band from Canada. Yes, Canada. The same country that gave us Justin Bieber. However, Simple Plan is 100 times better. Their sound is described mostly as pop punk. A few people say that they have more of an "emo" sound to them. Either way, they're still amazing and one of the founders of the pop punk scene. Band members include lead singer Pierre Bouvier, percussionist Chuck Comeau, lead guitarist Jeff Stinco, rhythm guitarist Sebastien Lefebure, and bass guitarists David Desrosiers.
The band started in 1999. In the bands life span, they have put out 4 full albums: No Pads, No Helmets... Just Balls (2002), Still Not Getting Any... (2004), Simple Plan (2008), and Get Your Heart On (2011). They have also released two live albums: Live in Japan 2002 and MTV Hard Rock Live (2005). They put together an EP titled "Get Your Heart On- The Second Coming" in 2013. They have a 5th album on the way. Rumors say that it will be dropped in 2015. So, be expecting it in the next couple of months.
Not only has the band produced amazing albums and worked on Scooby-Doo, they also played a ton of Vans Warped Tours. The played at every single tour from 1999 to 2005. They also played in 2011, 2013, and 2015. The band has also started a successful foundation simple titled Simple Plan Foundation. There's not many like it out there. Their foundation focus mainly on the problems teens face including suicide, poverty, drug addictions, and abuse. They released a single, "Save You" to benefit the foundation. The song was inspired by cancer patient survivors and the video featured the people the inspired the song. Not only that, but they also donated 10,000 to Japan in 2011 after their natural disaster. Most recently, the band released a book Simple Plan: The Official Story. All proceeds went in to the foundation. This foundation hits home for me since I've struggled a lot in my teen years and I still am struggling with depression and anxiety.
The whole point of this blog is to promote their newest single and my current favorite song, BOOM! It was released on August 28th. The music video they made for it was released the exact same day. What a better way to drop a new single than to do it with a music video? The video is just as amazing as the song. It features cameos from members of the bands MxPx, PVRIS, Silverstein, Black Veil Brides, Parkway Drive, and Issues. My favorite appearances were from the members of Pierce the Veil, Alex Gaskarth from All Time Low, and Brian Logan Dales from The Summer Set. BOOM is a perfect example of the type of band Simple Plan is. It shows exactly why they are considered to be founders and kings of the pop punk scene. Everybody was more than excited to be taking part in this historic bands video. BOOM is simply amazing. I don't know who else to describe it. It's upbeat, energetic, but it still holds that unique sound that makes it punk. Simple Plan has perfectly mixed the two genres (pop and punk) in to one with this song. More people need to be talking about this! Simple Plan is back baby! :)

Tanner Patrick: Vine Star and Youtube Sensation

Tanner Patrick is a name that not many people know. However, if it is familiar to you then you probably have good taste in music or spend a lot of time on Vine and Youtube or both of course. Here's the basics on him. Tanner Patrick is 24 years old and is a singer/songwriter, musician, and producer. He is able to play guitar (electric and acoustic), bass guitar, piano, and saxophone. Oh yeah, he has an amazing vocal range making for a great voice. Did I mention that he was hot??

Despite what a lot of people think, Tanner didn't start on Vine. He started out on Youtube. He actually got pretty far into his career before he even started posting singing videos on vine. He started his channel in 2011, but has been active in music since 2008. He has managed to get over 800,000 subscribers on his Youtube and has gotten well over 86,000,000 views. Tanner signed up for Vine in 2014. He has managed to collect over 700,000 followers and he has surpassed the milestone of 100,000,000 loops.
So those are the basics. What you might not know about Tanner is the fact that he didn't start out as a solo artist. He used to be in a band with his friends. They called themselves Disco Curtis. The band did pretty well! I wish they were still together now actually! (But I do love Tanner as a solo artist) Disco Curtis signed on to MySpace/Interscope Records. They performed Bambozzle West in California and went touring with bands like Boys Like Girls and Forever The Sickest Kids. Their biggest milestone, playing in 2010 Vans Warped Tour. Sadly, in September 2010, the band broke-up because his friends attended college. Shortly after Tanner announced that he was launching a solo career. Thank God he did!
Tanner debuted his first single titled "Merry Go Round" in 2012. He also released the music video for it that April. It hit 1.3 million views. That's quite a lot for a debut song from an artist like Tanner. In 2013 he released another single called "Sideways Figure Eights". 2014 proved to be a big year for Tanner. He released yet another single, "Satellites" and a music video for it. Not only that, but he had a debut album, "The Waiting Home". All of these are available on iTunes. So are a lot of his covers that he has posted on Youtube, which there are a lot of. If you're not wanting to spend money on iTunes, then you definitely need to check out his YouTube page! So many amazing original songs and covers.
Tanner's talent is what I love the most about him. It was until I started writing this. I did a little background research as I normally do. I found out that Tanner has had some health trouble in his past. He has diabetes, which a lot of people suffer from. What really shocked me was the fact that both of his lungs have collapsed multiple times. He had surgery done and a few days later he was back with his band performing. That gives me mad respect for him! He's had to overcome a huge obstacle to continue his singing career. I mean, lungs are pretty necessary things for doing what he does and life in general of course.
So, there you have Tanner Patrick. An artist who started out as a name on the internet but is soon going to be headlining shows. He's gone through a lot in a short period of time, but he is still following his dreams and killing the game! Everybody needs a little bit of Tanner Patrick in their life.

Calibraska

"Hey it's that guy! Aren't you from vine?"

"Hell nah, I'm from Nebraska get your facts in line."

Two dudes with the same name came from Nebraska and are now killing it in LA. Jack and Jack are two teens from Nebraska, as I just said. Yes, they are well known from their Vines. They broke out in the music world in 2013-2014. They bring a whole new ingredient to pop and hip/hop music. The two of them have managed to mix the two genres perfectly! Don't believe me, check out their EP along with all of their other singles! I've touched on them before, but if you don't know who they are keep reading! :)

Jack Johnson

Jack Johnson is the smaller of the Jacks with blonde hair. He is also known as the rapper of the group. A lot of people say that white boys can't rap. They obviously haven't heard Johnson. He spits fire! Honestly, I think that he raps faster than a lot of the rappers that are all over the airways now. However, that's not a very popular opinion, so I better watch myself. Many people say that they speed up the verses. They can't exactly do that live and Johnson still kills it every time.

Jack Gilinsky

Jack Gilinsky is the other Jack in the duo. My Lord is he a looker! Both of them are pretty fine, but DAMN! Gilinsky isn't much of a rapper. He's a lot better with the actual singing parts of their music. He harmonizes well with Johnson and is a master with echoes. He vocally dominates most of the choruses. Gilinsky has a wide vocal range which is impressive for someone his age and his build.
Calibraska is a perfect example of who they are as artists and what their story is. The first track in California, which is about them moving from Nebraska to California to follow their dreams and that they're never going home. Shallow Love doesn't need much explaining. The title itself does that. The third track on the EP is How We Livin' and basically describes how they are living their life now. The fourth and final track on their EP is Wrong One. Personally it's my favorite, right next to California that is. The last track is pretty chill and is a story about falling in love with the wrong person and how that can fuck with your life and emotions. My opinion on the EP is that it is fricking awesome and deserves a shit ton of credit.
Both of them are very talented vocalists and lyricist. On top of that, they also have great senses of humor. That's actually how they got started--by posting humorous videos on Vine. Oh yeah, I almost forgot to mention that they dabble in dancing. Bottom line is that these guys are talented weather you like them or not. I don't see how anyone can hate them when they're both so kind and down to earth. Their songs are always personal to them and are written from their own pasts and stories. They use it to help and encourage their fans. Not many artists do that now-a-days. So mad respect for that.
Today, Johnson actually spoke up about that. He said that he realizes their music isn't strictly rap/hip or pop, but more of a mix and that they're influences by a lot of different artists as well as themselves. He says that they write music for themselves and for their fans. He has a love for lyricism and Jack & Jack are going to keep progressing in the music industry because it's one of their true passions. They're going to keep doing what they love whether "you rock with it or not. End of story". -Jack J.

Fandom Mania!

This month has been super crazy for anyone in a fandom. There was drama, tours, music releases, and celebrations. I've never been so overwhelmed with so much musical news. It seemed like no fandom was safe. Some of the trends on social media weren't even music related, but instead connected to Vine stars and the drama in their world. I love Vine and music, so this month has been completely mental. I'll start off with the drama and not so good news. I figure it will be nice to end this on a high note! 

First, I'm going to mention something/someone not music related. Carter Reynolds. If you haven't heard of him then you won't be reading this because you don't have access to the internet. Carter has been in the middle of an Oral Sex video leak followed by death threats which led Carter to have suicidal thoughts. It's impossible for anyone to state their opinion on this topic without offending someone. I am going to say that I feel for Carter. He doesn't deserve what he's been through and still dealing with. Everybody makes mistakes. He has apologized for his repeatedly and has been trying to make things better. This "sexual assault" on his girlfriend at the time was hardly a sexual assault. That's coming from someone who was been through over three of them. You can dislike Carter for what he did and said to Maggie (his ex-girlfriend), but sending him death threats and telling him to kill himself was and still is completely unnecessary. Maggie said that she was sent to the hospital under suicide watch, but yet she was posting videos of her dancing on Snapchat and staying active on other social media platforms. As I have stayed a couple days in an institute before, I can personally tell you that she was just winding people up. You are not allowed to have cells phones while there. If you are in the hospital, you would not be "whipping" around your room to entertain your Snapchat followers. This caused Carter to get more backlash and push him to the point of trying to commit suicide. People said he was faking and continued sending hate. If you did that, you are just as much of a low life as you think Carter is.

Kenny and Wes' first single together

Keaton performing with NGO live

The drama in the music industry isn't quite as serious as that. Taylor Swift and Nikki Minaj started a Twitter war over the VMAs music video of the year award. Honestly I couldn't care less because I'm not fond of either artist and I don't think either of them deserve to be nominated for the award. More important news for me would be the fact that the me members of Emblem3 have decided to work on separate projects. Wesley Stromberg has started a project called The Balcony with Kenny Holland. Keaton Stromberg has started his own band, "Never Getting Older", and they've already had their first live show together. (It was amazing by the way) The two say that Emblem3 is still together, but fans are starting to think that they are approaching the end. Just yesterday, a majority of the Emblems found out that Wesley and Kenny were moving to Washington together, Wes' hometown. Keaton remains in Cali along with Tyler Case as far as I know. Neither of them have spoken about the change. I'm waiting anxiously waiting on the edge of my seat for one of them to mention the future of Emblem3.

He'd be a good dad though!

Let's talk about Daddy Directioner now. And no, I'm not talking about Liam Payne.  Mr. Louis Tomlinson is rumored to be expecting a child. I don't want to touch on this subject too much either. Not because it's a touchy subject, but because it's as I said, a rumor. Neither the supposed mother Briana Jungwirth or Louis Tomlinson have spoken about the baby. Louis' band mates haven't said anything publicly either, however "sources" say that his bandmates are happy for them. An interviewer also asked the members of 5 Seconds of Summer what they thought of the baby news. All four them didn't have much to say because they didn't know much of it and Louis hadn't told them anything, but either way they are happy for Louis.

BYE and The Vamps having a night out

On to the happy news! I'll continue on about the biggest band on the planet. One Direction celebrated their 5 year anniversary together yesterday. 5 years of that band. Amazing. I'm going to start crying thinking about it. They have been through so much together and are obviously still going through a lot. It was heartbreaking to be celebrating the huge accomplishment without Zayn Malik, but the Directioner's still made the day a huge success.
Want some more music news? Before You Exit has joined The Vamps and The Tide for a tour. So many bromances are starting to form! On top of that, they signed on to their first real record label and released a single titled "Model". The band claims that it is the song they are proudest of and couldn't have imagined a better reaction from their fans. I personally believe that "Model" is a great song with an awesome message in it. At the moment it's one of my favorite songs. Two more of my favorite artists have released new music. Conor Maynard's single "Royalty" has been out for a while, but not available for download on American iTunes. Finally, it was released in America and I couldn't be happier. It's quite a tune. Check it out!
Last but not least, "She's Kinda Hot". I didn't think that I could fall more in love with 5 Seconds of Summer, but I was completely wrong. This song is literally my anthem. It's says everything that I've ever thought about society and my own life. They are one of the few bands that aren't afraid to go against the mainstream crap and the pattern everybody else set. This song is lyrically genius. A lot of people are overlooking the actual meaning behind the song. I find that sad because that's what makes the song so amazing. It's not the band going full on punk/pop rock or Ashton's kick ass vocal solo the whole fandom has been waiting for. It's the message in the lyrics.
So yeah! July has been epically hectic! I'll be ending it on a high note though with my 5 Seconds of Summer concert! Hopefully nothing too upsetting happens before then, but with fandoms like these, you never know what will happen next!