Last Friday Night...

Katy Perry …or Kathy Beth Terry??? According to KatyPerry.com, “Nobody LIKES Kathy Beth Terry and she wishes she was more popular.” Kathy Beth Terry is an eighth grade girl who is obsessed with the solar system, high school science fairs, Sudoku puzzles, Weenie Babies, Skip It, Pogo Sticks, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, and Hanson. Not your typical “Katy Perry,” but this new video is hilarious! 

It not only brings back memories from your high school/college days, but also relives that retro 80’s look/feel. From one-piece jean jumpers to neon spandex, big hair and jewelry, braces, and big glasses… this music video surely brings back memories to many. Weren’t the 80’s fun? …or just fun on “Friday?” Is Katy Perry, or Kathy Beth Terry, best friends with Rebecca Black now? Katy Perry must have built some sort of relationship with her after receiving the rights to perform “Friday” live in concert and putting Rebecca Black, at blame for the party, in the new music video.

There were also a few other well-known faces to make an appearance in this music video. Where did Kenny G come from? He definitely fits “the look” of the 80’s scene, but plays one mean tenor saxophone. Another familiar face would be Artie from Glee. Who would have fit that part better than him… from the taped glasses to the braces and “nerdy” look, Kathy Beth couldn’t have fell in love with a better nerd.

I think it’s brilliant when artists can step out of character and create a new one to get people talking. Is it a marketing strategy? For people in Kathy Beth’s shoes? Or just for fun? Either way, it was a giant step away from Katy’s sexy, candy land, fantasy dream world. Since Rebecca Black’s “Friday” video was removed from YouTube, I guess there needs to be another song about Friday, that almost everyone can relate to at least once in their lifetime… and I think this video (Last Friday Night… T.G.I.F.) is the perfect fit to take its place.

Lady Gaga Continues to Make History...

Lady Gaga, or Mother Monster, continues to make history. From her music videos to her live performances, album sales, speeches, fighting for equality, dramatic hair and makeup, wardrobe malfunctions, and last but not least her meaningful fashion statements… clearly Gaga was born this way.

She is known as a major force in the music industry selling over eight million records worldwide with digital sales in excess of twenty million. With over 288,000 albums sold its first day, 1.11 million albums sold in the first week, and the fastest-selling album of the year… Gaga deserves to be number one on the Billboard 200. She also just received the Fashion Icon Award at the 2011 CFDA Fashion Awards and was named number seven out of the 100 most powerful women.

Gaga is known to be an inspiration to the lives of many and has a passion in life… to satisfy her fans, or little monsters. Gaga is one artist that I can say is in it because she was born with a gift. A gift to perform… and isn’t an artist that leads you to believe that she is only in it for the money. She is truly an inspiration and a gift to the music industry. Her fans also appreciate her for what she stands for… equality. Not many get her style or wonder why she dresses the way she does, but they also don’t understand her story or the true meaning of her fashion statement that still has everyone talking… the meat dress. 

Say what you want about her, but she is brilliant. From her PR to her marketing team along with promoting her image, she must have one of the best/most clever teams working with her ever… who wouldn’t want to work with Gaga?! I would do anything to be part of her team!

Someone Like... Adele

Adele is one artist to quickly hit the spot light. “Someone Like You” is the last song on her album that really became popular and touched the lives of many. After feeling miserable and lonely, Adele wrote this song, which contradicted her song “Rolling in The Deep.” However, speaking from the heart and personal experience, “Someone Like You” is that song that almost everyone can relate to. After an emotional break-up, this song tells the story of her imaging years down the road looking for him and he’s happily married with a beautiful wife and kids. And she’s still on her own. Her true passion and emotion reaches out to the many lovers who can relate and have had their heart broken. This song has made her who she is today and she is such an inspiration. From her witty stage presence to her gorgeous look, her voice is one to send chills down your spine.

There is even a dance remix of “Someone Like You.”

From covers to remixes, Adele is flooding YouTube. So many of her songs have been remade by celebrities along with Adele’s biggest fans. Here is David Cook’s raspy rock and roll version of “Rolling in The Deep.”

From Lindsay Lohan to Gnarls Barkley, here are two remixes that make you want to turn up the volume.

Another cover that stands out is this talented individual from YouTube.

One group that is making headlines is the PS22 Chorus. From uploading a video to YouTube to landing on the Official Adele Website, this group is truly an inspiration. It’s so great to see grade schools inspiring kids through extremely talented artists.

Adele is truly an inspiring artist and is proof that music is one of the best ways to get through all those hard times. She expresses every emotion through her music and has even brought a tear to her eye singing in the moment live on stage. It’s artists like her that really make you feel like you have a purpose in life and to never hide your emotions. I’m so glad a friend introduced her to me because she has really had an impact on my life along with sharing some of the same life experiences. 

8 Year Old Raps Black Eyed Peas - Just Can't Get Enough (Cover/Remix) Ma...

Talented or not? The newest Justin Bieber look-a-like? Check him out...

Were You 'Born This Way?'

Lady Gaga has come to great success with her popular single ‘Born This Way.’ Toping the charts and remaining number one for weeks, this song has been an eye opener and a crowd pleaser. From covers to remixes, this song has flooded YouTube with the talent of others along with being able to express yourself. She has touched the lives of so many sending the message that it doesn’t matter what or who you are, that you were born this way! Lady Gaga is so talented and in my opinion one artist that is in it because she was truly born with this gift and not just in it for the money. Lady Gaga is one artist that is strictly fan based and is always reaching out to make sure her “monsters” are satisfied and have something to relate to. One fan that grabbed Gaga’s attention was the talented Maria Aragon. Releasing a cover of ‘Born This Way’ on YouTube landed her in Toronto, Canada to perform live with Gaga herself.

Lady Gaga has also cracked the whip on the newly released ‘The Country Road Version of Born The Way.’ You would never think her style could match the country twang and harmonica, but it is actually, in my opinion, an entertaining and unique creation.

‘Born This Way’ has also been a leading contributor and supporter for the NOH8 campaign. NOH8 is a photographic silent protest for equal rights supporting the LGBT community. This song couldn’t have fit the campaign any better.

Another YouTube favorite of mine is Sam Tsui’s cover of ‘Born The Way.’ He is one of many covers out there, but one that stands out in my mind for his unique and creative style. Each of his covers are inspirational and you can tell he puts a lot of time and energy into his work. He is known for his covers, but his originals are also a piece of art. I have been a true follower of Sam and really appreciate his work. I also have respect for everyone who has supported Lady Gaga and ‘Born This Way,’ not only for it’s up beat club feeling, but also it’s true meaning.

The Story of Ethan Bortnick

Ethan Bortnick is one inspiring individual with a true passion for music along with being an eye opener to the wonderful world of music. “At only nine-years-old, Ethan Bortnick is already achieving accomplishments that many musicians work towards for an entire career.” He is well known for mimicking any music he hears, whether on the radio or while listening to the popular Baby Einstein series. Ethan began learning how to play the piano at the early age of three. Currently at the age of nine along with a talent beyond his age, he has the ability to play almost any song by ear.

At the age of five, his talent was outstanding and was already starting to compose his own music. “Ethan appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in May of 2007, making his national television debut.  Since then, he has returned to the show three times as Leno’s guest, including an appearance in May 2009 where he presented Jay with a special gift – a song titled “The King of Late Night” which Ethan wrote as a tribute to the talk show host.  He has appeared on national shows on every major network including The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, The Martha Stewart Show and Yo Gabba Gabba.”

 Ethan has appeared in front of crowds as large as 20,000 people. He has also performed in concerts and televised specials both nationally and internationally. His first concert stage debut was opening for Nelly Furtado in Hollywood, FL in May 2007 after meeting her on the set of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has also taken the stage with both the Orlando and Naples Philharmonic Orchestras. He is currently the youngest piano soloist to ever perform with these ensembles. Through charity events and concerts, he has also taken the stage with legendary artists including Elton John, Natalie Cole, Smokey Robinson, Beyoncé, Reba McEntire, Gloria Gaynor and many more.

“On February 1, 2010, Ethan joined music’s biggest names as the youngest member of the all-star “We Are The World 25 For Haiti” line up.  Produced by Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie, the track featured superstars including Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Kanye West and Miley Cyrus and made its debut during the opening ceremony of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.”

As one of the world’s youngest philanthropists, Ethan had made a name for himself along with using his talent to express his desire to help people, especially children. “By performing, inspiring and educating, he has helped raise millions of dollars for charities around the world.” These charities include the Miami Children’s Hospital, the Boys & Girls Club, the American Heart Association, the Starkey Hearing Foundation and many others.

Ethan is currently on the road with his show along with lighting up the stage in his first national headlining tour. He brings some of music’s biggest hits and classics to life for crowds both young and old in over 50 cities across the country. Ethan arrives in Orlando, Florida on Friday, March 4, 2011 at the Plaza Live Theatre, 425 North Bumby Ave., Orlando, FL. Doors open at 6:30pm with showtime at 7:30pm. Tickets are $29.50 plus service fees and can be purchased at the Plaza Live Theatre, online or by calling the box office at 407-228-1220.

Ethan is truly an inspiring person to me along with an amazing musician. True talent is hard to find at this age, but clearly this proves that it’s possible. Ever since I’ve seen Ethan on TV, I think he is beyond talented and can’t imagine where he’ll be further on in his career. My hopes are that Ethan’s story inspires more parents to want to make music a part of their children’s life. I am a true believer that music is one of the most important talents out there and is one that is repeatedly overlooked in schools. I believe music should be a top priority, and through music, anything is possible.

All information taken from Ethan Bortnick.

Boyce Avenue at The Plaza Theatre on Feb. 27th

Boyce Avenue, a Florida-based band popular for its strong acoustic roots and melodic rock sound, consists of the three brothers Alejandro, Fabian, and Daniel Manzano.

“In 2007, in an effort to share their music and ideas with the world, the band decided to start filming and posting videos on YouTube of their own songs and some of their favorite songs by other artists. Some of the first few videos they posted included acoustic versions of songs such as Justin Timberlake’s “LoveStoned”, Rihanna’s “Umbrella”, and Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida”, among many others. The videos began to resonate instantly with YouTube viewers.”

Boyce Avenue have been an inspiration to me since I’ve discovered them on YouTube. While studying to receive my masters in Entertainment Business, I’m always on the search for “Inspiring YouTube Stars.” They are that breath of fresh air and through their passion for music, they have recorded some of most creative and unique acoustic covers and mixes.

“Currently, the band is touring Europe and preparing its next nationwide headline tour of the United States. Launching with this U.S. summer tour, the band will remain on the road through the end of the year, with repeat touring in Europe, and plans to enter new international territories, including Canada, South America, Asia, and Australia.”

Boyce Avenue will be making an appearance in Orlando, Florida on February 27^th at 8p.m. at The Plaza Theatre, 425 N. Bumby Avenue, Orlando, FL, 32803. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online or through their box office at 407-228-1220. “The Plaza Theatre is Orlando’s premiere live concert venue offering a wide range of concerts, comedians, and cultural events. In the early 1990’s, the theater was converted into a live-performance hall which opened the doors for many new artists and talent, while also acting as the 3rd largest seated venue in Central Florida.” I’m really looking forward to this event and have already seen how excited others are on Facebook to see them live. It’s one thing watching your favorite artists on YouTube, but it’s always an experience of a lifetime to see them perform live. I am also a huge supporter the arts and appreciate what people like Boyce Avenue and The Plaza Theatre do to keep the entertainment and music industry alive. Feel free to check out further information and upcoming events at The Plaza Theatre HERE.

All information taken from Boyce Avenue and The Plaza Theatre.