Sara Evans "Slow Me Down" Review

Since I've been working on the school newspaper, I've been doing a lot of reviews lately for concerts, albums and movies. I've also been doing recaps lately of Parenthood for PopWrapped. So, I feel like just about every form of art that I consume, I look at it a bit more critically than if I was just to watch or listen.

But, I digress…

Over the summer, I saw Sara Evans in concert (FOR FREE) at The Grove and was front row! Crazy, right? Anyway, it was such a fabulous concert from start to finish. She has a good voice, but her vocals really blew me away live. After hearing a couple of her new songs that night, I was very curious to hear the new album. Now that I've heard it…I'm obsessed! It's so good. 

Overall, I would say Sara has explored more of the pop elements in her voice, but most of the tunes still stay true to her country sound. Time for a breakdown of each song.

Slow Me Down//
Though, it's obviously a bit more pop, it still has her traditional sound, as well as some of the country essence in there. I heard this one back in July and really loved it!

Not Over You (Cover and duet with Gavin DeGraw)//
This is one of my favorite Gavin DeGraw songs, and while I do appreciate that he "duets" with her, it sounds more like he's just doing backgrounds. The arrangement and key she does it in seems a bit off for both of them to make work. 

Put My Heart Down//
I also heard her sing this one, and while it is a bit repetitive, it's SO catchy and you can't help but sing along. It's about knowing when a relationship, or more specifically someone, who is bad for you and just asking them to let go, so you can move on. But, it has a more positive message than "you broke my heart, I'm never going to be able to let this go." I also love that one of its writers was Liz Huett, who used to be one of Taylor Swift's back-up singers, and she is one of the sweetest people ever! This will probably be that one song you'll have stuck in your head for a week or so straight.

Can't Stop Loving You (with The Fray's Isaac Slade)//
This song has such a beautiful melody about what else? Love…It perfectly captures everything that one feels when they're in love or so I've heard. The strumming of guitar and the blending of Sara and Isaac's voices harmonizing are extremely easy on the ears.

You Never Know//
The intro has some rock flavor to it and almost sounds like it could've been a Jennifer Nettles song. There's a very sultry, bluesy feel towards the chorus and as the song builds. 

If I Run//
There's a sort of thematic element to this song that I just can't seem to get enough of. When I listen to it, I can picture it in the climax of a sweet romantic comedy starring Julia Roberts. I'm so rooting for this to become a single at some point. It starts off low and simple, then builds to something powerful and dramatic, where the narrator (or Sara herself) is laying her feelings all out on the line. 

Sweet Spot//
Pardon the pun, but again, this tune is sugary sweet, complete with "oooh's" and whistling in the background. It's the perfect theme for that couple who has finally found love and the right one that they want to spend the rest of their life with. I picture a couple sitting on the porch swing while the dog plays in the yard and the kids are screaming, but through it all, the couple makes it works and loves at the end of the day. 

Good Love Is Hard To Find//
Well, ain't that the truth?! This is one of the most "country" songs on the album,with a slow melody, starting off with an electric guitar and a banjo joining a few seconds later. I'm a very visual person when I listen to music, and I envision this one on lake with twinkling lights set up, while a couple dances at their wedding, meanwhile there's a young couple having a special moment to themselves on the dock not too far away, thinking that could be them somewhere in the future. This is definitely the kind of song you want played at your wedding. Another one I'd be rooting for as a single. It has everything a good country song is all about.

Better Off (feat. Vince Gill)//

In contrast to the last song, country music is all about heartbreak. This is a heartfelt ballad about a bad relationship that you're just simply better off without. Why pay attention to that guy any longer? It's just not worth the time. There's also more twang in her voice on this one, which I appreciate. I wish we could hear a little more of Vince Gill, but he always has such great background vocals, that true fans will still be able to spot him.

Gotta Have You//

This sounds like another traditional Sara Evans song. I would classify it as country/pop; another Jennifer Nettles sounding song. But don't let the slower melody at the beginning throw you off, as it builds with a mouthful of words that Sara rattles off with a steady beat and rhythm that will have you grooving. Catchy, fun, and colorful.

Revival//
Don't let the title fool you that it's going to resemble a hymn or end on a bit of more solemn note. If anything, it wraps everything about this album up with a shiny bow on top. It will make you want to put your robe and singing along with the "hallelujah's."Though it deals with faith and belief in God, everyone can relate to the universal theme of love and the miracles that life brings to each of us personally. There's even a bit of a banjo twanging away in the background which ties it all together.

The first half of the album seems to pay homage to the feel good, "poppy" sounding songs that make you want to dance and grab your loved ones, while the other half gives you those songs that tell a deep story and tug at your heart in deeper ways. You'll laugh. You'll smile. You'll tap your foot and bob your head along. You might even want to grab tissues to reminisce on past love.

Vocally, Sara is at her best and this could be just the beginning of really great things to come for her career. Do yourself (and your family) a favor and go BUY her CD! You won't regret it.

*****/***** --I give this 5/5 stars! I do hope this album gets her more recognition, because she really has a fantastic voice and the country music genre needs all the true vocalists that it can get.

That's all for now,
Shelby :)

Re-eee-ed, Re-eee-ed Tour 2013

Yesterday feels like a very strange dream; complete with a little drama, theatricality, good music, the city of Angels, and Taylor Swift. Let me explain how it all went down!

I woke up around 7:30, got ready, talked with my dad for a few minutes, and my mom and I were ready to go by 8:30, which is when we had originally planned to leave. Well, there is a bit of construction going on around our neighborhood, so it took us a little longer to get to the freeway. Then, I was reminded that I forgot something, so we had to turn around and go back. I was not in a good mood...But, I tried to perk up a little. Finally, we were back on the road, so I set the tunes to Taylor, of course, since that's who we were on our way to see. I always like to get pumped up to the artist we're going to see. It just helps me feel festive, that's all.

Shirt//Forever 21, Shorts//Forever 21, Shoes//Target

We made it down to LA in really good timing! The traffic wasn't bad at all, so we ended up in town around 10:30, so that gave us plenty of time. I was trying to think of somewhere different to eat, but just decided with Paty's, since it was close and I know they have good food. I had a chicken wrap that was good, but I was too excited to eat really, so I just sort of ended up picking around and eating the chicken! Too much avocado isn't always a good thing! LOL. We finished lunch and would've had time to do some other things, but not knowing how the system at Taylor's concert worked for the pit, we wanted to make sure we got over there to check it all out.

My mom and I drove into downtown, parked the car, then walked to Staples Center to see if we could pick up our tickets at will call. Well, because the confirmation e-mail never said what time you could do that, we assumed you could just do it whenever. As it turns out, we couldn't pick them up until 4:30, so we had a ton of time to kill and absolutely nothing to do. There's not much else to do around L.A Live, unless you're there for a concert or to eat...So, that sort of narrowed it down. And we had just been to the Grammy museum again a couple months ago. We mainly just wandered around, then I suggested going to FIDM (Fashion Institute). They have a really awesome student scholarship store that has a lot of discounted clothes and jewelry that some of the students have either made or used for projects! I found a lot of great items last time, and thought it'd be something to do! I didn't buy anything, because I wanted to save what money I had for Taylor...that girl always knows how to find a way to empty my wallet!
On the FIDM campus, they usually have an exhibit of costumes from motion pictures that were nominated for the academy awards and it's free (you can donate if you want to on the way out), so my mom and I wondered if they had switched it out with something else. Indeed they had, so we gave that a little looksie... it had costumes from several hit shows like, Nashville, Downton Abbey, Two Broke Girls, Parks and Recreation, Girls, Scandal, and several others that I hadn't really heard of. It's amazing to see how tall or small the actors are who wear them, compared to the idea you have while you watch them on the small screen. There was also a room full of one of the largest collections of 1920s outfits inspired by "Gatsby's women", which was fascinating. So many incredible flapper dresses; the beading and detailing were mesmerizing. I would love to time travel back to that era.
After that, we had killed an hour, with several more to go and no idea what to do next. It was a little warm and I was not in the happiest of moods, which unfortunately seems to be the theme lately, and something I bring on myself. I stress myself out over absolutely nothing most of the time or worry myself to death about the future, causing everyone around me to be miserable. My mom and I had a bit of a...moment...and had to talk some things out.
The fashion around downtown LA as we walked around is definitely something else...Everyone has their own flavor, which is exciting! After that, we walked back to the Staples/Nokia area. I was able to pick up some goodies from the merch table, then we wandered a little more. We were both getting pretty tired of "wandering", so we took a bit of a break, grabbed something to drink and ended up sitting behind Staples near the buses, because we had absolutely nothing else to do, as people gave us strange looks, like what are you waiting around for? No, we weren't even waiting or expecting Taylor to come out, so there was absolutely nothing going on. The sun moved its way over to us, so we decided to walk back to the car and came back to sit by the box office, so we were ready to go when pit was released.
While we were waiting, a younger girl came over to us and handed out cards, explaining she's a singer/songwriter, that if you like Taylor, you'd love her music too. I thought it was such a bold move, which I admired. She asked to take a picture with me for her fan site, and explained that she has a headlining show coming up at The House of Blues on sunset soon, which is a pretty big deal around here! She was really sweet, so I looked her up on Twitter and Instagram; definitely going to check out her music! Ellysa Rose was her name, in case any of you are interested :)

Eventually, 4:30 rolled around and we got in line for the passes. We started talking to a couple moms with daughters about Taylor...What else, right?! And I actually met the sister of a girl who had contacted me on Twitter...Small world! I was explaining how I'd been able to meet Taylor a few times and the story rang a bell with her! HA! Totally random! After we picked up our tickets, we went to the door and waited for an hour, talking with a mom and her 12 year old daughter. We were telling them about some of our trips to Nashville, as well as winning T-Party and pit. They told us all about their "Taylor Trip" to Nashville, hitting all of the places she goes...Needless to say, we got along real well. They were so sweet, and we thought we would be in the pit together...But, we ended up being on opposite sides, realizing we were in the wrong line. We should have been in the front row of the pit, but the guy wouldn't let us go down the same way, even though it didn't matter, so we had to go around to find another entrance that would allow us floor access. Such a crazy thing! We finally ended up in line, pretty far back, but we still made it against the other side, touching the stage, which was all I cared about.  I thought, "She'll use all of the stage at some point, so we'll be fine here." The waiting took forever, because we still had an hour to go before the show even started...But, it wasn't too bad. I think it's great that Taylor always makes every show of hers feel like an experience. Complete with booths, picture taking and lots of videos and music to keep you occupied.

                                        

At last, the lights went out and stage lights went up for Casey James! He's really talented, can jam on the guitar, and is a great songwriter. I enjoyed his set, which was only about four songs, and he seemed to have the crowd going..I just think he seems to be better with playing small bars/venues for the style he does, but you just never know. Ed Sheeran was up next and I was really excited to see him live, because everyone has said he's great! I've only listened to a little bit of his music on Spotify, but fell in love with "Lego House," so I was glad that was his last single and also that he played it live. What I loved most about him is that he's so hilarious and witty, and I just think he should make YouTube videos of all of his adventures around the world (if he doesn't already?) because he's so endearing. I can see why him and Taylor get along so well. Not all of his music is my style, but I think he's an incredible artist and knows how to draw an audience in. Can't wait to see what he does after the Red tour!

There was a bit of an intermission, and we had started talking to the security guard standing next to us. He said he would tell them he had two people for Club Red if they were looking for people..I didn't actually think he had any pull, but it was a nice gesture. And finally, "American Woman" started playing over the loud speaker... I knew exactly what that meant. Taylor was heading to the stage.

The lights went out for the last time, and the screams went to another level. I had my hand on the stage,  looking out to the sea of people all screaming for Taylor, waving their glow sticks and signs in the air just hoping that she'd even glimpse their way. It's the most unreal thing I've ever experienced. I can see how she says something like that never gets old. As a little girl, that was all I'd ever dreamed of...Standing on a stage, hearing people shout and sing along with me. Some dreams change, and I realize that might not be where I end up, but living it out from the pit of a Taylor Swift concert is pretty darn close. She represents girls everywhere who dream of that someday or just want to have that little fantasy of it happening to them.

A shadow of Taylor appeared behind the large red curtain, as the band began to play "State of Grace," and the roar of the crowd erupted. I always tell myself I won't cry...and then I do. And I did last night. Several times. I'm just SO SO proud of her. To have literally been there from the beginning, watching her grow into this worldwide phenomenon is just mind boggling. I mean, we all knew she was capable of it She walked down the grand staircase, strutting down the catwalk, and pretty soon, she was off and running. Towards the end of the song, she even gave away the hat she was wearing, placing it on the girl's head, and I just about freaked out! I can't even imagine being that girl. 

Taylor popped out a few more catchy, upbeat songs, like "Holy Ground" and "Red." She even thanked everyone in the audience for being the reason that she broke records as having the most sellouts for a solo artist, beating out Madonna, Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears, with 11 shows. CRAZY! She went into several more songs, and most of the time, I was just thinking how insane it was to have watched her at 17 years old, opening for Brad Paisley, and the only thing she had to sell to a crowd was the blue backdrop with her name on it, her guitar and her songs. Now, she has her own trucks with her face painted on every one of them carrying all kinds of equipment, an entire production team with big screens and graphics, dancers, backup singers, and all kinds of surprises up her sleeve. Just when I think she can't get any better, she does. 

The concert was going incredible! She had just finished up the set at the back of the auditorium and made her way to the main stage for "22"--SO FUN! Everyone was rocking out. And then came another moment I had been waiting for all night...she started talking about the surprise guest, which was Tegan and Sara. I know some people were freaking out about that, I'm just not that familiar with their music, so it wasn't a big deal to me. About that time, my mom leaned over to me and just said, "I don't feel good." I kept asking her if we needed to leave, because I didn't want her to start feeling worse before we left, and she said no. She went rummaging through her purse and said, "I can't find my...I can't find my..." I kept asking her what, because I was going to find it for her if she didn't feel like looking for it. She put her purse down and lay her head down on the stage, I was trying to comfort her as best as I could, but I didn't know what to do. The next thing I know she's falling down on the ground. I didn't know what was happening. Probably the scariest moment ever, not knowing what to do, with a million different thoughts running through my head. I mean, we're in the pit in the middle of a Taylor Swift concert...what do you do?? The security guard next to us stepped in and we tried to get her up, but she couldn't. So, she tried to stay there for a few seconds, until another security came up and said, "We need to get her out of here." Uh, yeah, no kidding! That's what we're trying to do, but she doesn't have the strength yet. So, after one of the nice bystanders helped out and others just stared awkwardly not knowing what was going on and turning their direction back to the concert, we were escorted by several security members up the stairs. I glanced at the stage one last time as we walked out of the pit, and could've sworn Amos was making eye contact, probably wondering what was going on...And then we were out. 

We went up to the lobby area to sit down for a little while, while first aid came to make sure my mom was okay. They asked us several questions, also telling us it wasn't the first passing out stint they've had at a Taylor show, just the first of the night. They got her some water and continued asking for information and what actually happened in there, if she had passed out or fell. She didn't really remember that much at the moment, but I clarified that she went down. It turns out it was just dehydration, we hadn't really drank much or eaten since 10:30 or 11 a.m, and we had been in the sun just about all day...Which is something we aren't totally used to, so that means drinking a lot of water and resting up now to make up for it.

She kept joking with the guy that we should get Club Red...But, of course, that didn't happen! Haha! Trust me, that was not an intentional plan. After mom started feeling a little better and was just trying to take it easy, she said I could go back in to watch the last few songs. All Too Well had already started up when I was out in the lobby, but I was able to make it back inside for the last half. The security guard talked to one of the ushers and she said it was okay if I just stood at the top. To be honest, I actually liked that view much better. It was easier to see all of the dancers and detail on the stage, instead of glancing every which way to keep up from the pit, but was still a lot of fun down there...There's a different energy that you just can't get anywhere else in the venue.  

Taylor closed out the show with "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" with confetti flying through the air. It was pretty magical, I must say. I left a few seconds early to beat the rush and met up with my mom. Luckily, we got out of there pretty quickly and made it out before the crowd hit and our parking lot was just across the street when we took the back exit. We hurried to the car and headed to the freeway. What a night, is all I can say. 

Definitely Taylor's best concert so far, I think. As special as each tour has been for me, I feel like this one was just really fun and heartfelt. She seemed the most natural again, while still making it feel like you're at a real live stage show, complete with costume changes and all. My favorite part of the entire show was "The Lucky One." Taylor always goes into so much detail with everything that she does; making videos, her monologues, her hidden messages in songs. Whatever she does, she makes sure that it is well thought out and planned, and that definitely shows! I will ALWAYS be a fan of hers...I don't care what genre she is. She makes fantastic music and puts on one heck of a show, to think otherwise...You obviously haven't seen her live.

We got out of LA with no problem and made it to Valencia, grabbing In-N-Out, then hitting the road again that would lead us home. We were even starting to chuckle at mom's little tumble LOL...I told her, "We are never ever ever going to another concert together." I was obviously just kidding, but thought it was fitting with the Taylor Swift theme, and then we laughed a little more at all of the stupid things that we'd say or come up with on the way home. We made it home around 12:30, and talked to my dad for a few minutes about the night and the concert, then hit the hay. Going to concerts is quite the exhausting process...Some people don't even understand! HA! 

That's all for now,

Shelby

Oh, and stay tuned for a vlog of pictures and video of the night's festivities! :)

Weekend of Music

As I said in my last blog, Thursday night, I went to F.Y.E and found a ton of CD's with my aunt, because they were all buy one get one half off. They have new and old CD's, and just about everything in between. If you're looking for something that might be a little more rare, I'd definitely check it out; you never know what you'll find. So many things caught my eye that even if I hadn't wanted it, I was reminded of all the music I used to listen to or some of the things I wanted to get into.

1. Keith Urban in The Ranch//

I had listened to this awhile back on Spotify and really loved the sound! I'm a HUGE Keith Urban fan already, and seeing as these are his earlier days, it'll be interesting to see how much he has grown or improved as an artist.

2. Backstreet Boys//

My aunt had actually picked this up for me the day before when she went, because she didn't know whether I had it or not. I think I might've at some point in the 90s, but being the queen of losing everything, I couldn't tell you where it is. This was the album that started it all, as it was their self-titled debut, so it has a lot of their most well known hits and a few others. I'm so excited to relive all of the fun memories of rocking out to these guys, complete with dance moves and sweet harmonies. 

3. Katy Perry//

I just really love Katy Perry; her style, her music, her personality...Everything. I don't own any of her CD's, just a ton of songs on my ipod that I've downloaded from iTunes, so I was so incredibly happy that I was able to pick up a copy of "Teenage Dream".

4. Glee Season 3, Volume 7//

This one, like all of the other Glee soundtracks has quite the variety of songs on it, depending on the character who sang it or the decade it was from. It includes the hits like, "Last Friday Night", "Red Solo Cup", "Tonight," and "Rumour Has It." I was so excited to see they had so many Glee records on sale, so it was hard narrowing down which ones were best.

5. Glee Season 1, Volume 2//

Because this is when the show was just starting out, the songs are a little more classic, like, "Imagine," "True Colors," "And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going" and "Don't Rain On My Parade."

6. Leann Rimes//

"Sittin On Top of the World" was probably my favorite Leann Rimes album when I was younger. It felt like the first CD that was perfect for her age, and there were so many great catchy songs that just made you feel good. She was my idol growing up and is still one of biggest musical inspirations! SO glad I found this one, because I seem to have misplaced the copy I once had...Oops!

7. Jason Aldean//

As soon as I walked in the store, my aunt pointed out Jason's CD, "Night Train", which I've been hearing really good things about. I really like Jason's music and have become a bigger fan in more recent years, so I've been wanting to pick this up at some point or at least get a few of my favorites from iTunes. Needless to say, I was probably most excited about this one..He is one heck of a performer and has a lot of great 'rockin' songs, but I love nothing more than a good love song/ballad of his; it just really tugs at your heart strings. I'm kind of a sucker for any good country ballad anyway, but I love his voice when he pours into a slower song, instead of all the new rap country he's been doing lately.

8. 13 Going On 30//

This is one of my favorite movies of all time. I think it came out around the time I was turning 13, so it'll always hold a special place in my heart just for that alone. I've wanted this soundtrack FOREVER, but there was always something more current or recent out that I'd always end up wanting more. But, I was SO excited when I saw this copy just sitting on the shelf at the store and I knew I HAD to get it. There are so many great classic 80s songs, like, "Crazy For You" by Madonna and "Jessie's Girl" from Rick Springfield, as well as my favorite Billy Joel song, "Vienna" and another great modern hit, "Why Can't I?" by Liz Phair. AH! I'm replaying all of my favorite scenes of the movie just thinking about it. 

9. A Walk To Remember//

This is probably my favorite movie of all time...Well, it might be tied with Titanic, but sometimes it's too close to call. Again, I've always wanted this soundtrack, but never got around to it. So, when my aunt saw this one, I started freaking out. I immediately grabbed it and started going through the songs, even though I pretty much had them memorized, thanks to the movie. There are so many obscure artists that have great music featured in the film, including Shane West's band and Mandy Moore. Also, I feel like I'm ready to start bawling just looking through the pictures of Jamie and Landon in the booklet of the CD...WAHHH! And I'm making a mental note that I need to watch it again very soon.

So, there are my purchases! I was very giddy walking out with a stack of new music, because you can never have too much right? My aunt gave me another stack of CD's that were in her car when she dropped me off, that I might feature just for the heck of it, too. Stay tuned on that!

That's all for now,

Shelby

Whitehorse Cover

My Junior year of high school, I did the talent show and I sang a Taylor Swift song, of course. Her music just always fit so perfectly and spoke to so many people in my age group. In fact, I pretty much sang one of her songs every chance I got. So, here's Whitehorse! I hope you enjoy it :)

~Shelby

Songs For The Week

"Better Than That"
Scotty McCreery


First crush, first kiss, first time I saw the ocean
And dug my toes in the sand
(Your love is better than that)
Baseball and summer nights, casting out when the fish spurs by,
First time I got a Chevy in my hands
(Your love is better than that)
I thought nothing can touch that by a mile
I thought nothing can make that moment seem so worthwhile

Your love is better, better, better than that
Nothing is sweeter than you,
Making my heart beat so fast
Everything I could have been
That was at the end of all those other passed
Your love is better,
Your love is better than that

Six string, first song, the way it felt to sing along
To some words that were scribbled on my soul
(Your love is better than that)
Courtesy of lyricshall.com
I thought nothing can touch that by a mile
I thought nothing can make that moment seem so worthwhile

Your love is better, better, better than that
Nothing is sweeter than you,
Making my heart beat so fast,
Everything I could have been
That was at the end of all those other passed
Your love is better,
Your love is better than that

One day, years from now,
When I'm old and gray, I'm gonna smile about
How life has been so good...

But your love is better, better, better than that
Nothing is sweeter than you,
Making my heart beat so fast,
Everything I could have been
That was at the end of all those other passed
Yeah, yeah, your love is better,
Better than that
(Your love is better than that)

<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFFbg9sVJjQ>


At first, I thought this song would be my theme when I finally found that someone special. But, the more I thought about it, I saw how it applies to my life right now without any guy. I have God and he fulfills all the love I'll ever need...and then, I have my family and friends that I don't know where I'd be without. 
______________________________________________________________________________
"How Will I Know?"
Whitney Houston


There's a boy I know
He's the one I dream of
Looks into my eyes
Takes me to the clouds above

Ooh, I lose control
Can't seem to get enough
When I wake from dreaming
Tell me is it really love

How will I know?
(Don't trust your feelings)
How will I know?

How will I know?
(Love can be deceiving)
How will I know?

How will I know if he really loves me
I say a prayer with every heart beat
I fall in love whenever we meet
I'm asking you what you know about these things

How will I know if he's thinking of me
I try to phone but I'm too shy
(Can't speak)
Falling in love is all bitter sweet
This love is strong why do I feel weak

Oh, wake me, I'm shaking
Wish I had you near me now
Said there's no mistaking
What I feel is really love

Oh tell me how will I know?
(Don't trust your feelings)
How will I know?

How will I know?
(Love can be deceiving)
How will I know?

How will I know if he really loves me
I say a prayer with every heart beat
I fall in love whenever we meet
I'm asking you what you know about these things

How will I know if he's thinking of me
I try to phone but I'm too shy
(Can't speak)
Falling in love is all bitter sweet
This love is strong why do I feel weak

If he loves me, if he loves me not
If he loves me, if he loves me not
If he loves me, if he loves me not

How will I know?
How will I know?
How will I know?
How will I know?

How will I know if he really loves me?
I say a prayer with every heart beat
I fall in love whenever we meet
I'm asking you 'cause you know about these things

How will I know if he's thinking of me?
I try to phone but I'm too shy
(Can't speak)
Falling in love is all bitter sweet
This love is strong why do I feel weak

How will I know?
(How will I know?)
How will I know?
How will I know?

(I say a prayer)
How will I know?
How will I know?
(I'll fall in love)
How will I know?
<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3-hY-hlhBg&ob=av2e>


Well, I've been wondering about this...I think I got my answer. At least for now, anyway. 
_____________________________________________________________________________
"Someone Else's Star"
Bryan White


Alone again tonight
Without someone to love
The stars are shining bright
So one more wish goes up
Oh I wish I may
And I wish with all my might
For the love I’m dreaming of
And missing in my life

You’d think that I could find
A true love of my own
It happens all the time
To people that I know
Their wishes all come true
So I’ve got to believe
There’s still someone out there who
Is meant for only me

I guess I must be wishing on
Someone else’s star
It seems like someone else keeps getting
What I’m wishing for
Why can’t I be as lucky
As those other people are
I guess I must be wishing
On someone else’s star

I sit here in the dark
And stare up at the sky
But I can’t give my heart
One good reason why
Everywhere I look
It’s lovers that I see
It seems like everyone’s in love
With everyone but me

I guess I must be wishing on
Someone else’s star
It seems like someone else keeps getting
What I’m wishing for
Why can’t I be as lucky
As those other people are
I guess I must be wishing
On someone else’s star

Why can’t I be as lucky
As those other people are
Oh, I guess I must be wishing
On someone else’s star
<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBp1ugUZ2mE>


This is for those discouraging moments when it feels like all the good stuff is happening to everyone else but me. I've had a few of those lately, but then I'm reminded that it all has to be for a reason and it's going to be worth the wait. 
__________________________________________________________________
"While I'm Waiting
John Waller


I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord
<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb7TSGptd3Y>


I had told my friend, Viviyan, about my little proposition or vow yesterday about just focusing on God and not letting distractions get in the way. This morning, she text me about this song she had heard and thought was perfect for my situation. I gave it a listen and completely agreed with her. This is my most current theme song. That's another beautiful thing about music; no matter what situation or moment we're faced with, there's a song for it. 


That's all for now,
Shelby
xoxox

I Was Here by Lady Antebellum

I'm pretty much obsessed with this song and have been posting the lyrics everywhere since yesterday. This is my song! I feel like in some weird way it was written just for me (which of course it wasn't lol). That's the beautiful thing about music; it can connect people all over the world to feel like that song was written about them, for them, to them....and that has always been one major way that God has spoken to me. I get confirmation through song. This is my theme song for the year!

Lyrics:
You will notice me
I'll be leaving my mark like initials carved
In an old oak tree, you wait and see

Maybe I'll write like Twain wrote
Maybe I'll paint like Van Gogh
Cure the common cold, I don't know
But I'm ready start 'cause I know in my heart

I wanna do something that matters, say something different
Something that sets the whole world on its ear
I wanna do something better with the time I've been given
I wanna try to touch a few hearts in this life
Leave nothing less than something that says ?I was here?

I will prove you wrong
If you think I'm all talk, you're in for a shock
'Cause this dream's too strong and before too long

Maybe I'll compose symphonies
Maybe I'll fight for world peace
'Cause I know it's my destiny
To leave more than a trace of myself in this place!

I wanna do something that matters, say something different
Something that sets the whole world on its ear
I wanna do something better with the time I've been given
I wanna try to touch a few hearts in this life
And leave nothing less than something that says ?I was here?

And I know that I, I will do more than just pass through this life
I'll leave nothing less than something that says ?I was here?
I was here


Here's the video, if you want to check it out: 
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XZ12nrz47U)

In Honor Of Valentine's Day

I thought I would post some of my favorite "love songs" or favorite artists that, to me, explain love the best through music.

• Anything by Keith Urban (I want to marry someone that has a way with the words like he does)
• Anything by Taylor Swift
• Valentine's Day movie soundtrack
• Valentine- Martina McBride
• Silly Love Songs-Paul McCartney
• You Are The Best Thing-Ray LaMontagne
• It's Gotta Be Love- Lee DeWyze
• Better Than That-Scotty McCreery
• Look At Me-Carrie Underwood
• Whenever You Remember-Carrie Underwood
• Dancing Away With My Heart-Lady Antebellum
• Then-Brad Paisley
• She's Everything-Brad Paisley
• The Little Moments-Brad Paisley
• Nothin 'Bout Love Makes Sense-LeAnn Rimes
• Some People-LeAnn Rimes
• How Do I Live-LeAnn Rimes
• I Don't Want To Miss A Thing-Aerosmith
• When You Look Me In The Eyes-Jonas Brothers
• Lovebug-Jonas Brothers
• Love I've Found In You-Lady Antebellum
• If I Knew Then-Lady Antebellum
• Ready To Love Again-Lady Antebellum
• When You Got A Good Thing-Lady Antebellum
• If It's Not Like The Movies-Katy Perry
• So Close-Jon McLaughlin
• What Do Ya Got?- Bon Jovi
• Marry You- Bruno Mars
• Marry Me-Train
• If It's Love-Train
• Have You Ever Been In Love-Celine Dion
• My Heart Will Go On-Celine Dion
• Taking Chances-Celine Dion

There are a whole bunch of other songs that I could've listed because there are millions of songs about that subject...After all, love does make the world go 'round.

That's all for now,

Shelby

xoxox

Songs For The Week

I wanted to start doing a post weekly where I list all of the music that has had a line that really touched me, inspired me, or just a song that really made me feel good and I related with that week.

Glass-Thompson Square
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHIElnuBeiA)

From My Head To My Heart-Evan and Jaron
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5Qaabx_7NY)

Better Than That-Scotty McCreery
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFFbg9sVJjQ)

Home Is Where The Heart Is-Lady Antebellum
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGDmZw-liFg)

The Trouble With Love Is-Kelly Clarkson
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQQ3mkwlnXk)

Falling Over Me-Demi Lovato
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azGNp-iTIGU)

Dirt Road Prayer-Lauren Alaina
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDB1LjVNSJA)

Wildflower-Lauren Alaina
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37mq4LjLp2g)

All Your Life-The Band Perry
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpdh4pPl0Ck&ob=av2e)

Domino-Jessie J
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJtB55MaoD0)

Love Is Looking For You- Miranda Lambert
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxsvFA6xRoQ)

What Do Ya Got-Bon Jovi
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ui0BtEvdy0Q&feature=related)

Christmas Practice #1

Tonight went really well! We have such a big group this year; it's incredible that each year the choir grows. We went over the parts for "The Messiah Came" and "Don't Save It All (For Christmas Day)", which we did last year, so it was pretty easy to pick up again. Once we went over it a time or two, I could hear the parts. The most time consuming things to work on are the "oohs" and "aahs", because they're so tedious. You have to get them just right or they sound weird. 

It's so fun having everyone together. It's the one time of year when anyone and everyone from the church comes together to make this happen, and it couldn't have gone better. The laughs and smiles on everyone's faces as we joke around and come up with wacky things, just really makes my heart feel warm and fuzzy; it's family. I feel really special to be apart of bringing others to Christ. That's what it's all about; the rest of it is all just minor details that can be worked out. It's important that we not lose sight of that. :) God has a big plan for each of us in this, no matter how small or insignificant we may feel at times, He's got it all planned out...I'm trusting Him. 

Keep following the star,
Shelby xoxox

P.S. Next week, I know we're working on "A Baby Changes Everything" and "Oh Holy Night"; both are tough songs, so it'll practice will probably be a little longer ;) I'm ready! Haha.

"Christmastime Is Here!"

Alright, so it's not actually here. As a matter of fact, we haven't even hit Halloween yet, and the weather has been pretty hot/cold on us as to whether we're actually in Fall yet. But, tonight the Christmas season will kick off for me in a way, because choir practice starts at our church for this year's Christmas concert starts. It's going to be an absolute blast like last year. It's always cool getting to meet new people from church, see the process of how to put this show together, and sing for Jesus. Nothing better than that right? We're doing it at our convention center downtown, and it will be more of an outreach program to the community than anything else.

You know, it's funny. I started thinking about the first time I got involved with the choir, almost two years ago, in 2009. I've been going to the same church since I was born, and I knew most of the people that were involved, because they were friends of my parents or I'd seen them around for years, but I'd never really talked to them by myself before. I'd never really gotten a chance to know them, and it's funny how I end up talking to them now more than my parents do. I remember walking into the sanctuary for the first time, not really sure of what to expect, or if I would feel comfortable.I remember feeling a little awkward back then; not sure of what to say or just strike up conversations with people I'd never really talked to before, and now I can't imagine not talking to them, because they've become my friends. After that, I got the courage I needed to join the worship team, and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I don't know if I've ever had more fun being a part of a team, than I've gained with this one. I know it probably doesn't sound like that big of a deal, but it is with me. I can tell a difference in the way I see things, and who I'm becoming everyday, and just becoming more of a people person. 

I look at how far I've grown out of my shell from that point, and how God is using me in ways that I don't even understand yet. I look back at how quiet I used to be, and in some ways I'm still that girl, but I'm not so afraid anymore. I feel like I can talk to strangers, and walk up to random people on the street and talk to them, even if it's only about the weather. I've been learning and growing so much, in ways, most people probably wouldn't understand. I love watching the process of how this show all comes together from the music to the final production at the theater downtown; You don't realize how much work it takes, and it's fascinating to me to watch behind the scenes action, because it's the business I'd love to get into someday, whether it's movies or TV or music. Most importantly, I love the way we become like a family with each group as the years go by, during this season. You learn to open up more, and trust each other, and that's a beautiful thing.

I can't wait to get started on this journey, because that's exactly what it is. Each Christmas season, God shows me something new, and brings something incredible out of this show to my life. I'm excited to get the music tonight, and make new memories with a new group. I hope to keep a log of everything that happens each week, so that at the end of it, I'll look back and smile to see all that we've overcome. There are going to be long nights, I'm sure, all during the ending of a semester, which might get tricky (especially during finals). It will all be worth it in the end.  :D

That's all for now,
Shelby xoxo

New Music

These past and next few months are going to be surrounded by all kinds of highly anticipated music. In September we had Demi Lovato, Jake Owen, and a few others. This month we have Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina, Martina McBride, and Kelly Clarkson at the end of the month. And we can't forget about Taylor Swift's Journey to Fearless DVD coming out next week, and Speak Now Tour DVD/CD coming out early next month. I thought I'd give my short reviews on the CD's I've picked up so far.

Demi Lovato:

Prior to the CD coming out, Demi kept saying how her sound was different, and this album would be different from the others. She described it as more soulful sounding, so I was expecting something like Kelly Clarkson's first album, Thankful. I was a bit surprised when I started listening to it, to find that it was more hip hop/rap. I appreciate all genre's of music, so I'm always open to hearing new things, but hip hop isn't usually my style. However, the more I listened to Demi's CD, and went through each song, I really liked it. She did such an amazing job. The style of music may be different, but her genuine soul comes through in the lyrics. I still think I might prefer her rock edge a little more, but over all I was pretty impressed with "Unbroken."

Jake Owen:

I've always really liked Jake Owen! I've had the pleasure of meeting him a few times, and he's one of the nicest guys around. He writes about what he knows; the country, girls, being out on the lake, and life. He's basically the male version of Taylor Swift (it's a shame those two didn't work out ;) Lol). Awhile back, during the summer, Jake was back in Nashville, and tweeted to his followers to join him out on the lake. They met at the location he said, and spent the rest of the day with Jake on his boat. Now, is that cool or what? I actually had a friend, that I've met and talked to through Carrie Underwood's fan club, that was lucky enough to join him, and from the sounds of it she had a great time. This was the first CD of Jake's I'd ever bought, but I was super impressed. It's a feel good CD, and I highly recommend it.

More reviews to come on upcoming CD's. What are some of your favorite artists at the moment? CD's? Feel free to share on my twitter account: http://twitter.com/#!/ShelbyN92

That's all for now,
Shelby

Kelly Clarkson's New Music Video-"Mr. Know It All"

I think all girls can relate to this song in some way or another! It has such a great empowering message. It makes you  feel like you can sing back to all those people that think they know everything there is to know about you, (the ones that try to put you down, when they don't know your story) and say "Ya know what? You don't know it all! You can't do anything to stop me from going after what I want."
We can do anything, and nothing can stop us from going after what we want. We can't let small people belittle our dreams or us as people. The only opinions that should matter are our friends and family. I LOVE Kelly, and this video is amazing. Her attitude is great; she has so much sass. Midway through, if event that long, you'll be making the same facial expressions and bobbing your head along with her! I'm so excited to hearing the rest of the album when it comes out in October! :D

http://music-mix.ew.com/2011/09/26/kelly-clarkson-mr-know-it-all-video/

Demi Lovato-VH1 Do Something Awards Performance

Thursday night, Demi Lovato performed her new single, Skyscraper for the first time ever live! Demi has had some emotional problems last year that needed to be dealt with, and she checked herself into rehab. She's not one of the typical teen stars, though, that goes in and out. She was serious about it! I could not be more proud of her for admitting to the world that she had a problem and took care of it. She is a beautiful girl with such an incredible story, and has helped so many other people in the process. This is my theme song at the moment; it basically says that no matter what you're going through, you can rise above it, and come out stronger!

Here's her performance!! LOVED it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCHXo19by2M