The Alphanumerics Of Modern Music: The Kace Era

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Adele.

One of the freshest faces on this list is Adele. She started garnering some attention in 2008, but it was in 2011 where she basically took over the world. Imagine what it's like to have an album go #1 on the Billboard 200 in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, a bunch of other European countries and Australia. If you're Adele, you don't have to imagine it. All along the way, she's being herself and really who's to stop her?

The music video of choice is an obvious one. "Rolling In The Deep" has served as Adele's manifesto for music world domination. An old school soulful sound and a voice that makes it sound easy. This song dominated 2011 pretty much everywhere. From various Billboard charts and countries to even making some noise in the Carolina Beach Music circuit, this is the song and music video that made Adele relevant for some time to come.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYEDA3JcQqw&ob=av2e
"Rolling In The Deep" by Adele

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Aerosmith.

If you're familiar with rock music, chances are you're familiar with Aerosmith. They've had their fun and they've certainly had their drama and turmoil. They were labeled in their early years as the, "poor man's Rolling Stones," and for a time in the 1980s appeared destined for past tense. Then a couple of funny things happened. First, Run-D.M.C. wound up recording their own version of Aerosmith's, "Walk This Way," with Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of the group helping out. Also, there was the release of their Permanent Vacation album which served to introduce Aerosmith to a new generation of young fans.

There was some internal debate on which music video to feature here since Alicia Silverstone and Steven's daughter, Liv made appearances in some. There was also my personal favorite ^A^ tune, "Hole In My Soul," and the story aspect of that video. There was Matilda The Hun, one of my all-time favorite wrestling villainesses taking part in, "Love In An Elevator." And yes, there was, "Pink." Ultimately, I decided to go with, "Janie's Got A Gun."

I admit, to this day, there are times where I keep waiting for the movie version of this song. In retrospect, perhaps that's because the director of the video is David Fincher, who's done some movie work. Also, there's Lesley Ann Warren (who is awesome in Clue). The content of the song and music video is rather heavy to the point where Steven actually wound up changing some of the lyrics to keep the record company and radio stations from freaking out (as radio stations are wont to do). "Janie's Got A Gun" still has its lasting impact and remains one of Aerosmith's more notable efforts.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqQn2ADZE1A&ob=av2e
"Janie's Got A Gun" by Aerosmith

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Air Supply.

In the early 1980s, there was one band who was arguably the standard bearer for what would be known as Soft Rock, Air Supply. I suppose that in itself is an achievement. However, having these guys on the list really allows me to focus a little more on one song in particular that exhibited the greatness of someone else entirely.

The music video of choice is "Making Love Out Of Nothing At All." That selection is certainly by design on my part. This particular song is the brainchild of one Jim Steinman, one of the evil geniuses of music production. In 1983, this particular tune was #2 on the Billboard chart. At #1 was "Total Eclipse Of The Heart" by Bonnie Tyler...also one of Jim Steinman's tunes. Jim ruled the world and without the artist he's forever linked with, Meat Loaf with the Top 2 songs and by different artists.

Now the funny part. Originally, both songs were to be Meat Loaf's, but Mr. Loaf's record company nixed that. Since Jim's own solo career didn't appear to be going anywhere, he split his dice pool with Air Supply getting one and Bonnie, the other. The rest is history, I guess. Also of note for 'rasslin' fans is the lead guitarist for this song, a fella by the name of Rick Derringer. "Real American" and "Demolition Theme?" Yep, that guy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKK1E9-44ms&feature=related
"Making Love Out Of Nothing At All" by Air Supply

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Alabama.

Venturing into 1980s Country can be a mixed bag. It was the bridge between the classic stuff and what it is now. One of the leading bands during that time was Alabama. They had crossover success, numerous hit songs and later on in their careers even gave a salute to Carolina Beach Music with "Dancin' Shaggin' On The Boulevard." Their love for the Myrtle Beach area led to there being the Alabama Theater in North Myrtle Beach AKA The Center Of The Universe.

The music video selection is covered in sap, but hey it's Alabama and for some reason, they had a knack for making really good love songs. Thus, "There's No Way" and I admit I didn't even realize there was a music video for this until seeing it on YouTube. That's the power of the internet.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEwGPe0H_po&ob=av2e
"There's No Way" by Alabama

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Alan Jackson.

The day Alan Jackson dies will be the day Country Music loses its last bit of conscience. Even if one is of the mindset that country isn't exactly a genre to listen to, then one can still appreciate Alan. Over the years he's been able to offer a nice blend of the whimsical to reminiscence to social consciousness. There were his thoughts on the Terrorist Attacks of 2001 being poured into song with no need of faux patriotism wrapped around it. And perhaps his shining moment came in 1999 at an awards show where he showed his support for George Jones, going Elvis Costello Saturday Night Live on the CMA's and performing George's "Choices" song (The CMA guys only wanted George to perform a short part of it as a way to cut to commercial to which George decided to just stay at home instead since the idea was stupid). Afterwards, Alan left the building and became country music immortality. He's awesome like that.

The music video is "Little Man" which fits Alan perfectly in terms of social conscience and reminiscence with a pure country appeal that sadly only few seem able to pull off as well nowadays.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBh-m1yTZS0&ob=av2e
"Little Man" by Alan Jackson

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Alanis Morissette.

She's been everything from Vanilla Ice's opening act to God in a film role. And that was in less than ten years. Once upon a time, a young Alanis was supposed to become Canada's next Celine Dion. After a couple of albums Alanis would just assume never existed as far as American audiences go, she decided to go in a much edgier direction, becoming the first Alanis Morissette instead. I will say this though, her early years stuff ain't that bad.

As for music video selection, "Ironic," is probably her most notable video, but it got on my nerves and the song doesn't really cover irony all that well. So I opted instead for my favorite, "Hands Clean." The video itself is the story of how a recording artist can transition a past love affair into a hit song and the timeline therein. The song is more about that past affair itself and the fact that no is to know of it...or something like that. "And you've washed your hands clean of this," is the resonating line and at some point, all of us have to do that. God knows I have.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2dH289KxkGw&ob=av2e
"Hands Clean" by Alanis Morissette

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Alice In Chains.

In 1991, things were changing in rock music and one of the most prominent examples was Jani Lane giving way to Layne Staley. When the year started, Warrant was relevant and Alice In Chains was this other band with a different sound. By the end of the year, Alice In Chains had a nice fanbase and Warrant was already being looked at in past tense. Alice In Chains, along with Soundgarden, the Smashing Pumpkins and yes, Nirvana and a host of other bands pretty much knocked the happy-go-lucky/power ballad friendly style of rock off the airwaves. Those bands I just mentioned would be applying airplay slots that had been reserved for bands like Warrant, Slaughter, Nelson and Winger. It's hard to explain the years 1991 and 1992 to anyone who wasn't there for the music. And while Nirvana usually gets credited with the lead role (albeit reluctantly, given Kurt's attitude), Alice In Chains was one of those bands right in the thick of it. And with that mainstream success came the opportunity to really explore their sound and what all they could do with it.

The music video of choice is "No Excuses." "Man In The Box" could've worked, but then this entry would involve a lot of Tommy Dreamer content and since he's the underdog that was never meant to make it to the top, we'll deny him that here out of respect. "No Excuses" not only showcases both Layne Staley and Jerry Cantrell's vocal talents, but the video's directed by Matt Mahurin. As a few may know, I'm a pretty big fan of Matt's music video work. The song's also served as a personal anthem and a reminder of my own imperfections, which I'm sure some out there would be happy as a jaybird to point out if ever asked.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r80HF68KM8g&ob=av2e
"No Excuses" by Alice In Chains

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Amanda Marshall.

She should have been a much bigger deal in the States. Didn't happen though, but oh well. Amanda still had her beloved Canadian audience to appreciate her voice. Now for me, there are a couple of different reasons as to why I'm familiar with Amanda beyond the lights of "Birmingham." One is the fact that in 1996, I was introduced to a channel called MuchMusic out of Toronto which at that point was already playing her follow-up to her lone American hit and that was "Beautiful Goodbye." Second is the fact that I became friends with the good people of Nowhere To Go/Women Rock Radio online who also had a great appreciation for Amanda Marshall. My personal favorite by her "Sunday Morning After."

The music video of choice of course is "Birmingham." Kinda reminds of that brief time I was staying in Fayetteville, TN. Just down the road from a whiskey plant that could intoxicate the air and just up the road from Huntsville, AL, home of the Alabama and Auburn stores side-by-side. Did I mention it was pretty much her only real hit here in the States? Which just goes to show that yes, we can get it wrong sometimes. She was much better than the One Hit Wonder she'll probably be known as in this country.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIzMcCNAmp4&ob=av2e
"Birmingham" by Amanda Marshall

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Amy Grant.

By 1991, Amy Grant was already a well established name in the Christian Pop scene. She had some taste of mainstream success teaming up with Peter Cetera for a duet and also having, "Find A Way." For the most part though, she was still, "that Christian singer gal." In 1991, that all changed and what a year for the change to take place. The Music Revolution was in earnest and the times were changing. This was just as true in Pop-land with Amy basically being one of the owners of that year in terms of success. Heart In Motion set into motion previously untouched heights for Amy's career, pretty much launching her as a new star all over again. She would continue to bounce back and forth between genres and even offered up a cover of Joni Mitchell's "Big Yellow Taxi" that didn't suck. Amy's still going as she enters her 50's, even touring with another Christian Pop favorite, Michael W. Smith. ...For those of you who are into that sort of thing.

The music video is an obvious choice, "Baby, Baby." It was Amy's attempt at writing a romantic tune, but her inspiration wound up being one of her baby daughters. It became a #1 hit and years later, an example of what constituted as 1990s, "cheese," in music. There will be haters, but chances are Amy would just pray for them anyway.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMXuuYnoRdI&ob=av2e
"Baby, Baby" by Amy Grant

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Annie Lennox.

Annie Lennox is known for her work as one half of the Eurythmics and she's also known for her work as a solo artist. In the 1990s, Annie really shined with her haunting voice and ability to use that voice to capture one's attention. Her music played a significant role in my High School years. That's saying something as 1991-95 was a pretty good time for music. Then again, I'm biased.

The music video of choice probably requires an explanation so here goes. Few songs can bring grown men to swim in a puddle of their own tears, but this is one of those songs. "Love Song For A Vampire" is a tragic romantic tale and Annie delivers about as well as anyone can. And really, only Annie would be able to pull this song off. Now don't misunderstand. Those of you who know me well enough are probably aware that just about anything involving a vampire not named Chocula's gonna be pretty much met with the phasers set on Ignore. Vampires, be they of legend or glitter just aren't my thing for the most part. Ditto for werewolves, zombies and other supernatural things that seem to be a big deal for some reason in pop culture. But goodness, I love this song. She had other songs that were much bigger hits, but it doesn't matter. The first and last song I'll think of when it comes to Annie Lennox is this one. And that's regardless of film it was a Soundtrack to.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhG8zC4npsE
"Love Song For A Vampire" by Annie Lennox

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Anouk.

Anouk is a pretty big deal in the Netherlands where she's from. There are other countries where she's managed to garner some attention. Here in the States, she's barely noticed if at all. I guess I'm one of the fortunate few. Prior to 2004, I wasn't really all that familiar with her until I got to listen to "Sacrifice" for the first time and became instantly fascinated.

The music video is "Girl" which I'm sure for a few people I know will be noted for the...er...bouncy nature of it at times. I'll leave it to the listener to determine what the song's about. I'll just bob my head along to the beat.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DM-gd9-Q-Qg&ob=av2e
"Girl" by Anouk

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Anthrax.

Anthrax was a different kind of rock band in the 1980s. With "I'm The Man" they showed a knack for rock, rap, humor and sampling everything from Metallica to Run-D.M.C. to Sam Kinison. Not something Poison was about to do, that's for sure. As time progressed, Anthrax continued doing their own thing and even teamed up with Public Enemy at one point. They've had some membership changes over the years as so many bands are wont to do. But they still have their following and there's a chance they'll still be remembered years from now.

The music video of choice is "Black Lodge" from their artistic apex, Sound Of White Noise. The song was their first official crack inside the Billboard Top 40 in the Hot 100 and the video is a disturbing thing of beauty with a twisted plotline and all.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfSabXyTkGw
"Black Lodge" by Anthrax

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Aretha Franklin.

By 1977, Aretha Franklin had already reached legendary levels and didn't really need to do anything else to cement her legacy. Thankfully nobody bothered trying telling her that as she kept going all the way into the 21st Century.

The music video featured is "Freeway Of Love." It was a Top 5 in the Hot 100, #1 in both R&B and Dance and reminded people that Aretha still had it just fine. Plus, it's hard to go wrong with Clarence Clemons on saxophone. Just ask Lady Gaga.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ip_pjb5_fgA&ob=av2e
"Freeway Of Love" by Aretha Franklin

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Avril Lavigne.

It wasn't supposed to be this way. Originally, the idea was for young Avril Lavigne to grow up and become the next Shania Twain or Faith Hill. She was pretty big on country music, but then things changed. Still a teenager, Avril was able to get a record deal and was pushed as yet another new young pop star. I can still recall in 2002 Avril getting the big push, so to speak as radio stations (including one I worked at) started playing her ad nauseum.

Turns out, Avril decided to enjoy the ride and is enjoying her pop friendly career and she's still going. All four of her studio albums have scored in the Top 5 of the Billboard 200. She's managed to score a #1 with "Girlfriend" with its catchy "Mickey" beat and she has a legion of fans, ready to defend her at the drop of a hat. It's good to have fans.

As for the music video, I considered going with "Girlfriend" but decided to go "I'm With You" instead. First off, I really like the song and also, it was her third single. This is important, because the first two were "Complicated" which I've never particularly cared for and "Sk8tr Boi" which went from catchy to annoying after hearing it every other hour on the air for a few days. Then came "I'm With You" which caused me to think that maybe there's some hope for this young singer yet.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGR65RWwzg8&ob=av2e
"I'm With You" by Avril Lavigne

Kace-1 · 1,000 or More Posts Joined: 24 Dec 2011 Posts: 1092

A is for Ayreon.

His name is Arjen Lucassen and he has a knack for rock projects. The one that gets him recognition on this list is his storyarc series, Ayreon. Through Ayreon, Arjen's been able to come up with some fascinating narratives with a melodic rock sound. He's brought in numerous guests from various bands to take part in telling different stories and even a greater storyarc that encompasses several albums. Being able to construct a concept album that can tell a story from start to finish isn't always easy, especially if there's need or want of a hit song or two. Meat Loaf's been able to do it with some albums and the Moody Blues had Days Of Future Passed. There was also Nirvana (the original 1960's-70's group from the United Kingdom) and their The Story Of Simon Simopath. And so on. Of course there was also KISS's Music From The Elder...well anyway.

Arjen, through Ayreon has been able to ratchet things up significantly when it comes to the concept of concept narrative albums. For now, future Ayreon albums/stories don't appear forthcoming. But even if Arjen decides to keep his focus on his other bands/projects, he's already accomplished quite a bit with Ayreon.

The music video is "Day Eleven: Love" and is from the Human Equation that initially appears to be a separate story all its own. I won't spoil the ending for you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTSt58Xelz8
"Day Eleven: Love" by Ayreon