Chance the Rapper was Great. Everything Else at his St. Louis Show was Terrible.

Last night I had the pleasure to see Chance the Rapper in concert here in Saint Louis. The show was great, but there was some not so fun stuff I, and a lot of other people, had to deal with last night.

I want to get the bad out of the way first, then give the review of the Chance show. First off, I think the Scottrade Center oversold the show. There were enormous lines just to get in. They seemed to have every door to get in open, but when you got in, there were only 2 security people and 2 metal detectors. So, they had four or five doors open only to let all the people in those four or five lines regroup and get into 2 lines. It was a cluster from the start. After we finally got in, we found our seats fairly easily, but since the show seemed to be oversold, there were multiple people with the same seats as my friend and I. This was frustrating, but we made it work because everyone stood the whole time. Still, it was annoying.

Chance had 2 openers, and neither were that good, in my opinion. I already forgot the rapper's name that was the first opener. His stuff was your typical bass heavy, gun shot sounds and air horns over and over again. It was very forgettable. Then there was DJ Oreo. This guy did have a ton of energy, and was a great hype guy for the show, but all he was doing was taking requests from the crowd. I'm serious. He had his Twitter and Instagram handle on the big screen and was playing parts of songs that people in the crowd had tweeted at him. I can listen to the radio in my car or at home. Like I said, he was full of energy, but we were basically listening to a very, very loud radio. This was made even worse by all the clearly drunk teens that were rapping very loudly with every single song. These were all white teens as well. It was embarrassing. This was one of the first times in my 30's when I actually felt old. I was getting irritated by all this. I don't do dance clubs and I hate when non singers sing. It was very upsetting.

DJ Oreo, after what seemed like an hour, finally said that Chance was ready to come on the stage. I got excited, but then there was another 30 minute wait. So, this DJ gets the crowd ready, then we sit there for 30 minutes. I was very close to getting ready to leave, especially when 2 of the WASPY-est people I have ever seen said that we were in the wrong seats, finally got it all figured out, and then the male of the group was dropping unspeakable words along with every rap song.

What kept me and my buddy there was, the lights went down, and finally, after 2 plus hours of listening to a very subpar rapper and a DJ playing today's hits, Chance the Rapper finally hit the stage. He rode out on a scooter and immediately went into the song "Mixtape" from "Coloring Book". All my anger disappeared. I was happy to be seeing this great artist live. For the next 90 minutes, it was great. Chance played a ton of songs, not just stuff from "Coloring Book". He played a lot of singles that he has performed on with guys like DJ Khaled. He did one of his lesser known tunes on a project he did some surfer guy when they were both broke. He played a ton of stuff off my favorite record, "Acid Rap", highlighted by my favorite Chance song, "Favorite Song", ironically. I was pumped to hear so much from "Acid Rap". I was also thrilled to hear that his mother, who was in attendance, loves "Acid Rap" as much as I do. The show was on Mother's Day, so it was nice to see his mom in the crowd. I love stuff like that at live shows. It was great.

Midway through his set, he introduced a special guest, Maxwell. I remembered the name, but I couldn't figure out who he was. Then, it dawned on me, he was a big R&B guy in the mid to late 90's. I remember a bunch of girls in high school loved his songs. It all came flowing back when he said to the audience, "I want to take you all back to 96 with this song", and he played one of his hits. It was an odd change of pace, but I've got to say, it was nice. All his songs were specifically for the mothers in the audience, and like I said, it was very nice and sweet.

After this little interlude, Chance came back on stage and crushed for another 40 minutes plus. This was when he did a bunch off of "Coloring Book", and all the songs sounded great. I loved when he did "Same Drugs" specifically. He was sitting on a stool and singing, then all of the sudden a big stage rig dropped down over the audience and he walked across singing the song to all the people there. It was cool as hell. There were a lot of fireworks, smoke, fires and a great light show. He clearly put a lot into the production of this tour. He was great as far as his performance, and at times, he seemed like a conductor, imploring the audience to sing along. This didn't make me as mad as usual because Chance is so god damn charming. He is also a very deep individual, giving a lot of deep talks and philosophizing on life and love and faith.

So, while I was frustrated at the start, Chance the Rapper came out and played one hell of a live show. He is a very good, very giving performer. Know that when you are going to his show that you will have to wait for awhile, almost to the point of wanting to leave, but when he hits the stage, the wait will be worth it. I cannot wait to see what he does next, and I recommend going to see him live if he comes near, or to, your town.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. He is also a white kid who loves rap, he just forgets to be a douchebag like so many others. 

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Ty Listens to New Music From LCD Soundsystem and Big Boi

Three song were recently released to the public, and I want to take my time today to talk about how much I personally enjoy all 3.

First off, LCD Soundsystem, a band that I love, released 2 of them. They were supposed to be released at midnight last Friday, but they got leaked early Thursday afternoon. I waited until this weekend before buying the 2 song EP on iTunes. I've got to tell you, both "Call the Police" and "American Dream" have me very, very anxious and excited to hear what their full length record will sound like when they finally finish it. These 2 songs are tremendous throwbacks to what I love most about this band. It was refreshing and comforting to hear them sound so tight and together as a full band. James Murphy's voice is still perfect for their sound, and the band, my gosh do they sound terrific.

"Call the Police" is a 7 minute synth/pop song that is just about perfect. It could have easily been on "Sounds of Silver". It has that feel. There are some great instrumentals to start out the song, and when Murphy comes in with the vocals, it is like I'm transported back to 7 and 8 years ago when I first discovered the band. It is a great, great tune. I wish it were 14 minutes long. I love the flow, the verses, the chorus and the bridge. Basically, I love the whole damn thing. I was so happy when I heard it the first time, I listened to it about 100 times more since because I cannot get enough of it.

As far as "American Dream" goes, it is a bit of a departure form their normal sound, but not by much. I also say that in a good way. Everyone knows that I like it when bands I listen to take newer and different chances on their particular style of music. LCD Soundsystem has always been a synth/punk/dance band. Those are genres I'm not that into, but for some reason, I like how they blend it all together. On "American Dream", it sounds about as poppy as they will ever get. This is a good thing. Sometimes it is nice to have a song that you can sing and dance along to. It is fun. I really enjoy the direction they took on this particular song. Yes, it is different, but if it is always the same, there is no growth. "American Dream" shows me that this band, during their time off, grew up, and now, they sound like they are having more fun than ever making music.

These 2 tracks have me fully ready to devour the new record when it comes out. I hope it gets released sooner than later. But, I will say that it is nice to kind of get a preview of what to expect on the new record with these 2 new, early released songs.

The other song I want to talk about is a totally different genre, rap, but it also comes from someone that hasn't put out new music in a long time. The person in question is Big Boi, of Outkast fame, and the song is called "Kill Jill", and it features Jeezy, and the always exceptional Killer Mike.

This song is dope as hell. I had seen a lot of stuff on social media about the song, but it wasn't until yesterday that I finally heard the song. I was driving home from a race, and I had my Run the Jewels station playing on Pandora. They played some RTJ, a few El-P and Killer Mike solo songs, and then this new Big Boi track came on. I was totally floored by how awesome it was. I'm an Andre 3000 fan when it comes to all things Outkast. I like Big Boi too, but I prefer the sound and style of Andre 3000. "The Love Below" is a million times better than "Speakerboxxx". But, Big Boi does have his moments as a solo artist. "The Son of Chico Dusty" is a really good record that doesn't get the credit it deserves. But, I'm always a little wary when Big Boi ventures out on his own. Well, not anymore after hearing "Kill Jill".

The song has a very quiet and slow beginning with an Asian lady singing something in her native tongue for about 20 seconds. After that, the beat sounds like an old Asian tune you'd hear in a Kung Fu movie, but really slowed down, and Killer Mike comes in with the first verse and absolutely crushes it. From there on out, Big Boi sounds incredible, Jeezy is awesome and Killer Mike is doing his thing. I think it is perfect for Big Boi to feature Killer Mike on a track since he pretty much gave him his start in music and help guide him in the beginning. And Jeezy, who I am not all that familiar with, sounds amazing on this song. It makes me want to check out his music to see if I would be into it.

Big Boi has done something magical with this song, and, just like with LCD Soundsystem, I'm excited to see if this one song brings about a new Big Boi solo record. I usually do not buy singles, but these are the exception. These 3 songs are tremendous and they run a wide variety of genres of music. I highly recommend people go and check these songs out. I'm glad I did, and I think you'd all enjoy them very much.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. He missed out on the gold old days when the head editor would go to his local Streetside Records and get a maxi-single cassette tape. 

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Ty Listens to "Humanz"

The Gorillaz finally released their newest record last Friday, April 28th. This has been a much anticipated album by many, myself included, and it does not disappoint. It feels so good to hear Damon Albarn's voice again hidden behind his cartoon counterparts.

I've been on the Gorillaz bandwagon since they released their first record back in 2001. I've always bought their new records the day they came out, and "Humanz" was no different. I woke up on Friday, got myself prepared for the day, and when I had a moment to sit down, I got on iTunes and bought and downloaded the record immediately. I then listened to it immediately. I waited until today to review it because I wanted an entire weekend to let myself really get a thorough listen. The wait seemed like forever, so I needed at least three days to really access my feelings on this record. I needed the time to really let the new music sink in.

I loved, as I have already said that the record does not disappoint, what I heard. It is classic Gorillaz music. It is very synth-y, with elements of hip hop, pop, rock and roll, electronic and, to round it all out, some great R&B. I'm not a big fan of interludes on albums, but for "Humanz", the interludes feel needed. This is as close to a concept album, a title given to records that I have stated on this site that I loathe, as it gets nowadays. The interludes are your segues from song to song. They're perfect.

Then, the songs are just tremendous. First off, their is a guest on every song on this record, but that is what the Gorillaz do. They're notorious for their guest lists on all of their records. It is needed since this is a band created by Albarn and a friend of his, so he needs the help from other artists. The names that pepper this record are phenomenal. We get people like Mavis Staples, Grace Jones, Popcaan, Vince Staples, De La Soul, Danny Brown, Anthony Hamilton and Pusha T, to name a few. That is quite the guest list if you ask me. Then, to hear them with the Gorillaz, it was icing on the cake.

The first track of the record, "Ascension" features Vince Staples, and it is a great rap song. It is 99 percent Vince Staples vocals, with the Gorillaz doing the instruments, and it works tremendously. Staples is a great, young rapper, and he is on fire right now. This was a great way to start off the record. The song is bouncy, fun and very dance worthy. Staples is great, as are the Gorillaz. Then, 2 songs later, we get the song "Saturnz Barz" featuring Popcaan. I hadn't heard much from Popcaan, but this song is a great, almost disco type pop/electronic song. Again, it is very dance worthy and this song makes me want to go out and find some more Popcaan to listen to. The very next song, "Momentz" features one of Gorillaz main collaborators, De La Soul, and it is just as great as "Feel Good Inc", or "Superfast Jellyfish". De La Soul and Damon Albarn clearly have a great partnership, and any time Gorillaz releases a record, I want to first hear the song that will feature them. "Momentz" is awesome. It is a wonderful rap song, and it is great for working out. I expected greatness from both De La Soul and Gorillaz, and they, of course, delivered. When I did not think it could get much better, we get "Submission". This song features Keela, and one of my new favorite rappers, even though he's been around forever, I just recently discovered him, Danny Brown. This song is incredible, and it all comes to a glorious end with Danny Brown rapping for 90 seconds straight. Keela and the Gorillaz carry the song, and then Danny Brown comes in and finishes it off with an absolute bang. This was, after one listen, my favorite song.

But, as I dug deeper and listened more and more, I think my favorite track is "Let Me Out". This song has Pusha T just crushing it as the emcee, great vocals from the Gorillaz, and then we get the great Mavis Staples singing the chorus, as well as adding her own verses. This is the perfect Gorillaz song. It blends all their styles into one 4 minute masterpiece. This song is flat out stupendous. To get someone like Mavis Staples is a feat in and of itself, and her singing on this song is a true delight.

The rest of the record I really enjoy as well. I love the hard rocking "Charger" featuring Grace Jones. I enjoy the very odd "Sex Murder Party". "Hallelujah Money" featuring Benjamin Clementine is so sad and depressing, but it is a great song. And the final track, for those of you that did not buy the deluxe edition, "We've Got the Power" featuring Jhenny Beth is a great ending. 

"Humanz" is like a great meal. It starts out wonderful, you digest the first half, you want more, the middle of the record is great, and then the dessert that is the last 1/3 of the record that kind of slows down a bit and lets you stew in the great music. I am a fan of Gorillaz, and in my mind, they can do no wrong. The 6 year wait seemed like 60, but the work they did, and the people they got to be on this record, was worth the wait. "Humanz" is a great record, and it makes me that much more excited to see them in September in Kansas City. The Gorillaz are great, and "Humanz" is too. I highly recommend this record.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. With the Gorillaz having released new music, how long before Timmy and the Lords of the Underworld get back in the game.

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Let Me Respectfully Explain Why Musical Festivals are the Worst

Behold the natural beauty of the modern music festival

Today I'm going to put on my old man hat, pants, short shorts, whatever you want to call it, and complain about music festivals, mainly, Coachella. First off, I love, love, love music. I have made that abundantly clear on the site. Next to my family and sports, music is the biggest thing in my life. It has shaped my style, my thoughts and how I perceive the world today. The music is not the problem with Coachella and all other music festivals in general. The music is most definitely great at most of these festivals. The fact that people and bands I love like Kendrick Lamar, Radiohead and Run the Jewels headline these fests are great. The problems I have are the people, the attire and how commercial all of this stuff has gotten.

The bad stuff started a long time ago when some morons decided we needed a Woodstock 2. First off, the original Woodstock was a free event held at some family's farm. Woodstock was meant to bring people together, in a trying time, through music. Sure, there were some wildly dressed people and many of the memories and pictures we all know and see now have to do with the mudslide. But, for the most part, the original Woodstock is remembered for Jimi Hendrix and the like that played some of the best music of their careers. Then, Woodstock 2 came along. You know what most people remember about this crummy festival? Well, I remember the horrific lineup, the fights and the fires that were started, and people complaining how expensive everything was, including bottled water. That is where the biggest problem with festivals nowadays lies. The prices for merchandise, food and drink is utterly ridiculous, and it all started with Woodstock 2.

Of course that was a tremendous failure, and festivals were very sparse afterward. People just didn't want to deal with the headache anymore. Sure, there were still one or 2 day things. We had situations where there were 3 stages and the whole thing would start at noon and end after midnight, but nothing too big.

Then, in the early 2000's, Bonnaroo came along. I remember first hearing about this fest. This was during my jam band phase, and Bonnaroo had them all. I remember wanting to go to it so, so bad. But, I couldn't afford the tickets, and I do not like camping, so it was out of the question. I bought the compilation CD that came out, and listened to it a bunch. I figured I'd go in the future, but not at the current time.

As the years passed, I got less and less interested because it started to become this over crowded, pop obsessed, image driven festival. What started as a much better predecessor to Woodstock than Woodstock 2, was becoming just as commercialized and stupid, for lack of a better word, in my opinion. When bands like U2, who were great in the 80's, but not in the 21st century, are your main headliners, no thank you. They have tried to do other things, like add a comedy event, but I still have no interest. First off, it is in the dead of summer, and I have no interest in hanging out with a bunch of smelly, sleep deprived and drug infused music fans. I'm a nightmare when I'm sleep deprived. Put me with a million other sleep deprived people and I would go nuts. It doesn't help my case that I'm not a "partier". I have no problem with people doing drugs and drinking, as long as they aren't hurting anyone. But, I do not want to hang with people for 3 or 4 days that are just straight up binging. That is the worst. Bonnaroo is so off my radar now, when someone says that they are going, I always think to myself, I can't believe that it is still a thing.

I did try the whole festival thing about 12 years ago though. I found a festival called Wakarusa being held in Lawrence, Kansas. It had a good lineup, and I thought that I could handle the camping. I even went with my oldest brother, his wife, some of their friends and my niece, when she was a tiny baby. I thought this was the ideal situation. I was wrong. I was miserable. I was constantly harassed by hippies and stoners all weekend long. I was made fun of because I was not drinking and or doing drugs. I thought it was going to be like going to a Widespread show, where everyone is welcome, but I was wrong. I felt secluded. I could not believe how mean these supposed all loving people could be. To make matters worse, there was no time to see the bands I wanted to see because schedules always conflicted. I would catch 15 minutes of Robert Randolph, sprint over to the second stage to catch 15 minutes of Keller Williams, then run again to see North Mississippi All Stars encore. This was incredibly frustrating. Add the fact that I was getting little to no sleep, I was ready to go home by the second morning. Luckily for me, so were my brother and his wife. We left early. All the excitement I felt a month before Wakarusa was demolished within an hour of being there. I have never even thought about Wakarusa again, until I decided to write this piece today.

Here in Saint Louis we now have LouFest, and I have absolutely no desire to go to this. The prices are outrageous, there is usually only one, maybe 2 bands worth seeing, and it is so commercialized that it is disgusting. LouFest is utterly ridiculous.

They also have the Roots N Blues BBQ/Music Fest in Columbia. I have been to this twice, and both times, I was ready to leave the moment I entered the park. I immediately regretted my decision to go. This has gotten way out of hand too. They sell way too many tickets, and for a smaller college town like Columbia, they cannot handle the amount of people. I vividly remember going to see Buddy Guy, and leaving after his first song because there were too many people, I felt like I was in a sardine can, and I couldn't even see or hear Buddy Guy. Never again for Roots N Blues. There is other stuff like Lollapalooza, the Gathering, and I'm sure other things I can't think of now that I will never go to because festivals are the worst. 

Finally, what sparked this whole idea today, we just had Coachella this past weekend. I will never, ever ever ever go to Coachella. I stated at the top that the lineup is second to none. But, no matter who plays, even if Bob Marley and Robert Johnson were to rise up from their grave, I will not attend. First off, it is in the desert at, or near the beginning of summer. No thank you. Second, this festival over sells every year. There are so many people there. Third, it is straight debauchery. My brother has been to Coachella once, and from what he told me, it was absolutely intense and insane. Not for me.

But, what I find most appalling about Coachella though is the fact that it has become some kind of crappy second hand fashion show. All the pictures you see are of celebrities, or faux celebrities, and what they are wearing. I could care less what Vanessa Hudgens, Cam Newton or any of the god damn Jonas Brothers are wearing at Coachella. I had to scroll through 4 or 5 different stories that talked about the "fashion" or the "famous faces in the crowd" before I got a small review of Radiohead's problems with sound, or how great of a set Kendrick Lamar did. That is a big, big problem. Coachella is the definition of image. People care more about what the bands, performers, or even worse, the crowd is wearing, or what they look like. Coachella should be about the music first, the art second, then everything else last. I do not care about anything from Coachella, except the music. How long until Coachella is just as much a laughingstock for outsiders, such as myself, as Burning Man is? Not too far away I'd guess.

Festivals have gotten a well deserved bad rap. They are wastes of time, in my opinion, and they are just a big cluster. I'd much rather just see the bands or performers when they come to, or near, my hometown. The fact that I got to see Run the Jewels in Kansas City, or that I'm seeing the Chance the Rapper here in Saint Louis, at their own headlining shows, sounds so much more appealing than fighting with thousands upon thousands of sleep deprived, smelly music fans. I LOVE live music. I LOATHE festivals. Simple as that.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. He used to be with it, then it changed, now what is it is confusing and strange. It did not take Ty long to morph into Grandpa Simpson.

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Ty Listens to Kendrick Lamar's "Damn"

What should be to no one's surprise, Kendrick Lamar has done it yet again.

I heard rumblings about a week or so ago that he was putting out another new record so shortly after "To Pimp A Butterfly" and "Untitled, Unmastered". It was proven to be true when his new record, "Damn" was officially released today. I bought it as soon as I woke up, as I have done with all of his records, and I have already listened to it all the way through twice.

I have to say, I really enjoy this album. This is the first album that feels like you can just sit and vibe out to. All his other records are tremendous and wonderful and very, very insightful. Lamar has proven himself the best writer in hip hop since Jay Z, and now, I think he has surpassed him.

After I bought "Damn" this morning, I found an hour to myself, my wife is off work for the day, to listen to it from start to finish while doing some chores here and there, so the kids didn't have to hear it. They cannot listen to this record, just like every other Kendrick Lamar album. Then, when my kids retired to their room for naps, I went to work out, and that was when I really dug into the record. It was just me, my headphones, the pavement and Kendrick Lamar. I got to really focus.

What I really enjoy about "Damn" though, while it is still incredibly introspective, it is easily his most "fun" record. Now, it is not fun in the way that Puff Daddy or any other "party" rappers from the early to mid nineties. It is fun more so in the way that Jay Z was having fun on "The Black Album", or how Run the Jewels have fun on all three of their records.

This record has it all. Like I said, it is deep. The intro is sad and terrifying. Then, the album slips into an almost R&B/funk type record with Kendrick rapping over the beats. It was so different from what I have come to expect from him, but I found myself really enjoying it. I like when artists take a shot at something different, and when they hit, it is even better. Then, the record reverts into a straight up rap record with some big time bass thumping beats. These songs were perfect running songs. Being able to pound the pavement to every bass beat is exactly what I look for when listening to an album that I use for working out. The song "Loyalty" is so prefect for that. "Humble" is another track that made me feel like I could an extra mile or two. "XXX" is kind of a blend of bass and R&B, and it is tremendous.

Look, what it comes down to for me, I am a fan of Kendrick Lamar's just like I'm a fan of Run the Jewels. He would have to do something truly awful, Macklemore awful, for me to not like whatever it was/is. "Damn" just proves tenfold that Lamar is so gifted as a rapper and a writer. The fact that he can put out 3 records in less than 2 years is incredibly impressive. The fact that all 3 records are totally different from each other and successful proves that he may be the best solo rapper in the game right now. Scratch that, he is the best solo rapper right now. He has taken over that throne from Jay Z.

Looking at just the current hip[ hop scene, Kendrick Lamar is so much better than anyone right now, especially Drake. The fact that each of them have a newer record out now, and that Lamar's is so much better is proof enough. Add on "To Pimp A Butterfly" and "Untitled, Unmastered", and he is so much further ahead and so much more prolific than Drake could ever imagine being. While Drake is out there being a front runner for whoever is the best team in college football, basketball and the NBA at the current moment, Kendrick Lamar just keeps getting better and better at rapping and writing. Kendrick Lamar cares more about his craft than most musicians in any genre of music, and "Damn" further hammers home this point. If you ask me, there is no debate about who is a better emcee. It is Kendrick Lamar by a million miles. Lamar is so god damn good and can do any style of rap better than anyone.

I will be listening to "Damn" for a long time now. It will be spliced between listens of "RTJ 3" and "Awaken! My Love" for the next couple of months. There is another rumor floating now that he may release even more music on Sunday, I cannot think of a better way to celebrate Easter, which is a hilarious farcical holiday anyway, than more Kendrick Lamar. Until then, I will be listening to "Damn" over and over again, and you should too. This record is phenomenal.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. Ha has yet to pick up the new Drake record. Ty is just not in the mood to hear sub-par rymes where Drake bashes the mentally ill.

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Ty Listens to the Shins "Heartworms"

Almost 3 weeks ago The Shins released their newest record "Heartworms". I've put off a review until now because I really wanted to give it a good amount of listens.

I'm a Shins fan. I, like most people, first heard of them when they were heavily featured in trailers and on the soundtrack to the movie "Garden State". By the way, that movie does not hold up well. It is melodrama at its worst. Anyway, that is where my love for the Shins began. I know there are people that knew of them well before, but for the most of us, the "Garden State" soundtrack was our entryway into their music.

I loved what I heard from the band. I had never heard pop/alternative music that sounded like the Shins. It was sad and slow, almost folksy, but then they'd play something very upbeat and fun. I liked the change of pace that it brought to the pop/alternative genre. I also really enjoy James Mercer. I have heard and read a lot of stories about how he is a total pain in the ass to work and play music with, but the end result, for the most part, is very good.

After seeing "Garden State" I of course went out and bought "Oh, Inverted World". I loved it too. It had that blend I mentioned earlier that I like, and the record as a whole is very good. One day when I get back to my greatest American band debate, the Shins will be one of the first bands I write about.

After "Oh, Inverted World", I got to listen to "Cutes Too Narrow". It sounded a lot like "Oh, Inverted World", but had a bit more pep in its step. It was fun and more and more people began to become Shins fans. I listened to this record on repeat. After that record was when the stories of working with Mercer became more and more prevalent. He always seemed to be switching and or firing band members because he personally did not like them.

It didn't seem to matter because when the Shins released their next record, "Wincing the Night Away", it was the best they have ever sounded, in my opinion. I saw them live while touring this record. This was the most rock and roll they sounded, and it hit me right where I needed to be hit. The song "Sea Legs" off that record is my favorite Shins song by a quarter mile. Richard Swift was part of the band during this record and tour, and he made them sound so god damn good.

This was when my fandom for the Shins was at its peak. Mercer broke off and did some great work with bands like Modest Mouse and some other indie alternative groups, but his best non Shins stuff was when he teamed up with Danger Mouse and they formed Broken Bells. This was where Mercer started to take more chances with vocals and try new things with instruments. Broken Bells is incredible. That is another band I will bring up during greatest American band stuff.

In between the 2 Broken Bells records, the Shins released another album, "Port of Morrow", and I loved it because it sounded like Broken Bells as a full band. That record really came and went with a whimper though, which was surprising to me.

So, when I heard they were releasing a new record this year, my interest was piqued. Having listened to "Heartworms" multiple times now, I come away feeling full, but not satisfied. The record is good. It sounds like newer Shins, which is my favorite style of Shins, but it all sounds too familiar. The stuff he does with Danger Mouse and Broken Bells I thought would influence this record, and while there are hints of it here and there, it is not on as much as it should be. The music is great. James Mercer is great. The band is very good. But, it all just kind of sounds similar to "Wincing the Night Away" and "Port of Morrow". That is not a bad thing, I have mentioned how much I like both of those records, I just wanted the band to try something different.

The Black Keys and yes they are my favorite band, and I won't say bad things about them, at least try and make their music sound different on each record. They always try something new. Same can be said for other bands I like with multiple albums like Run the Jewels, Chance the Rapper and Childish Gambino. I mean, look at what Childish Gambino did on his last album. It is a total departure, and that album rules. Even a band like RTJ, who are straight forward rap, take lots of chances doing different things on each of their three records.

I guess I am kind of just a lukewarm fan of this new Shins album. I really like the first track, but after that, it all just kind of blends together. The record is fine, don't get me wrong, I just wanted to hear something a bit different from a band that I have become a very big fan of. I still recommend the record for fans. I mean, it's a Shins record and it sounds like one. That being said, maybe on their next record Mercer will try some more falsetto singing and the band will take some far out chances as far as instrumentation.

I'd give "Heartworms" a B-, but it could have easily been an A. There is always the next record.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. He likes to feel full after music. Sometimes he wants to be full of steak and brussels sprouts and not just day old pizza (which is still pretty good). This record was day old pizza.

Follow Ty on instagram and twitter.

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Let Me Respectfully Explain Why Macklemore Sucks

The only good place to store Macklemore's "music"

Today I'm going to go back in time and do one of my favorite things, explain why I irrationally hate something. I usually save this for sports teams, but today, my sole focus for my hatred will be squarely on a "rapper". Many of you may have just read that sentence and assumed that I will be talking about Drake today, but not so fast. I'll save him for another day. I have also shit on him a lot on the podcast.

But, today I was driving in my car listening to my Pandora stations on shuffle, and something so damning to my ears came on that I got literally upset. I yelled at Pandora as if the AI could hear me for what they'd done to me. I felt like tossing my phone out of the car because of how angry I was that Pandora's AI thought I would want to hear anything from the "rapper" Macklemore. 

I DESPISE Macklemore. I think he is one of, if not the, most overrated "emcees" of all time. And yes, I'm going to continue to use quotes throughout this whole article because he is one fake ass "rapper".

Macklemore first jumped on my radar in 2013 with the horrendous song, "Thrift Shop". Everyone I knew loved this song, but me. I could not stand it. I did not like the hook. I thought that the beat was terrible, at best. I loathed the video for this song. But, what irked me most was this phony new "rapper" Macklemore trying to rap. It was disgusting. He sounds like a white guy trying to rap. That is not a compliment. You know when you hear someone like Eminem, El-P or Mike Skinner(AKA The Streets), and they sound like a legit rapper? That is the opposite feeling I got when I heard Macklemore. He was trying so hard to be a "rapper", where with real rappers, it just comes naturally. Of course "Thrift Shop" blew up. It was everywhere. Try as I might, I could not get away from the song. Every party, gathering, radio station or place I went or listened to, that damn song was on. It never grew on me at all. It had the opposite effect. The more I heard it the more I hated it.

People then looked for what he was going to do next, and to everyone else around him I give credit, his next single was "Same Love". This song has a great message, just a terrible messenger. If this had just been the lady singing who sang the hook, I would have been totally on board with this track. As I have said, I love and respect and agree with the message behind "Same Love", but, every time I hear Macklemore's dumbass "rap", I get angry.

A great spoof of how horrific a messenger Macklemore is was Andy Samberg as Connor 4 Real in "Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping" when he sang the song "Equal Rights". It is almost indistinguishable as to which guy is singing which song, and Andy Samberg was making a joke. That should, in and of itself, be enough evidence that Macklemore is an absolute joke.

Of course his record "The Heist" went on to win multiple Grammys, including beating out Kendrick Lamar's "Good Kid, M.A.D.D. City" for best rap record. That is one of the biggest "upsets" in the history of the stupid Grammys. In my opinion, that ranks right up there with Jethro Tull beating out Metallica for Best Heavy Metal Album, which many people see as the biggest upset in Grammys history. To make himself look even worse though, Macklemore supposedly texted an apology to Kendrick Lamar, telling him he deserved the award. What a douchebag. Just take your prize and let it be. I'm positive Kendrick Lamar doesn't give a second thought to the Grammys because he is way too busy making relevant, meaningful, incredible music. Only a moron like Macklemore would think that Kendrick Lamar would want an apology text from him. This was so stupid.

Then, Macklemore went on to show up in a multitude of Dr. Pepper commercials, claiming he was an independent artist who did things on his own terms. He would then take a sip of a Dr. Pepper at the end of these commercials claiming to be an "independent artist". This is such a sell out move. Just admit you did it for the money. Every musician and band does this now. It doesn't make you a sell out, unless you come across like Macklemore did in these stupid Dr. Pepper commercials. Some of my favorite bands, like the Black Keys for one main example, sell their songs to commercials all the time. I don't care because they don't come out and try and explain why they sold their music. I know why, they're getting paid a shit ton of money to do it. I'd do the same thing. Macklemore's Dr. Pepper commercials reminded me of myself when I was 17 and claimed anyone I liked that performed on TV or had one of their songs in a big time commercial was a sell out. Let me repeat my age, I was 17. Macklemore acts like a 17 year old. He also went on to do more stupid commercials, I don't even know what for, but he and Russell Wilson were hanging out. They said it was the Seattle connection, but I just saw a couple of holier than thou douchebags shilling some nonsense, and I hated those commercials too.

Many people anticipated Macklemore's second record, I couldn't have cared less, and it was a total flop. Again, I go to the "Popstar" comparison. Just like "Connquest" was a colossal failure for Conner 4 Real, so was "The Unruly Mess I've Made" for Macklemore. It was a colossal critical and monetary failure. That album got incredibly panned by critics and fans alike. I assumed the unruly mess he was talking about was his terrible "rapping", but I'm sure he was talking about some other bull shit that he thought made him seem semi important.

I hope this is the end of his "rap" career because he is garbage. I also do not know one single person, nor has anyone come to me and said, I'm a Macklemore fan. I know he sold millions of records, but I do not know one single person that owns a Macklemore single or record. It is a lot like The Black Eyed Peas with Fergie. I know they sold records, but I don't know one single person that claims to be a fan. Macklemore is trash and he should quit music forever. I hope it happens sooner rather than later.  

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. He was at the thrift shop yesterday and saw all of Macklemore's music for $.99. Follow Ty on instagram and twitter.

SeedSing is funded by a group of awesome people. Join them by donating to SeedSing.

Run the Jewels Prove they are the Best With an Incredible Live Show

Last night was the night. I finally got to see one of my new favorite bands. This is the band I have not stopped talking about on podcasts lately, and I finally got to see Run the Jewels live, and it was spectacular.

They had three openers and they were all okay, Gangsta Boo, from Three 6 Mafia fame, was the standout, but the night belonged to Run the Jewels. My only beef with the show, there was a 35 minute set break in between the last opener and Run the Jewels. This is a small complaint, but it is still irritating. I know it builds up suspense, but we are all there to see them, so I want all headliners to come on stage ASAP. The stage was set up in about 5 minutes, so the fans all had to sit and wait for 30 minutes. It was frustrating, but that was the only problem.

When Run the Jewels, Killer Mike and El-P, took the stage, the next hour and 15 minutes was tremendous. They went through most of their new album, sprinkling in some "older" classics as well. They owned the stage during their whole set. The two of them have such a great rapport and friendship, and that comes across ten fold when you see them live. They truly love what they do, and they love doing it for their fans.

Killer Mike was incredible last night. When doing new songs off "RTJ 3", like "Talk to Me" or "Hey Kids", Killer Mike was the star. He is such a great emcee and you truly got a feel for that when seeing him do the stuff live. He was on time and on point in every verse. He was having fun while delivering his message. He was angry when he needed to be angry, goofy when that was needed and just being an elite emcee when that was needed. Killer Mike was awesome.

Same thing can be said about El-P. He comes off on some of the records and some of their interviews as a "second banana", but that could not have been further from the case last night. El-P was just as good, and dare I say, sometimes better than Killer Mike on some of the songs. When he was doing his thing on songs like "Panther like a Panther" or "A Message to the Shareholders" I was blown away at how good he was live in concert. I should not have been, but since I have been a Killer Mike fan since high school, and I only recently got into El-P, I was surprised at how great of an emcee he is. I always knew he was an exceptional producer and beat maker, but last night proved to me how great of an emcee he is. He slayed his verses. I was bobbing my head and moving my feet as much to his verses as I was to Killer Mike's.

These dudes are at the absolute top of the rap game right now. They have been on their world tour now for months, this was their 24th of 36 shows, and if anyone thought that they may be slowing down a bit, that did not happen last night. As I said, they went through a lot of the new album. They opened with "Talk to Me". It was great. They also played the songs I previously mentioned, as well as tracks like "Call Ticketron", which was a lot of fun, "Stay Gold" which was incredible and "Don't Get Captured" which was really good, among many other songs on the record. When they did dip into older songs, they did not disappoint. "Lie, Cheat, Steal" was phenomenal, "Love Again" was grimy and gritty and hilariously vulgar and when they did their encore, I was amazed at how great the two "older" songs, "Close Your Eyes" and their very first song, "Run the Jewels" sounded. First off, "Close Your Eyes", which is one of my favorites, was just a bass thumping, wailing good time. Both Killer Mike and El-P were tremendous on this track. The light show was just a flashing display of strobe lights. You could barely see the two of them, but you could definitely hear them. It was a banger, and I was so, so glad that they played it last night.

That would have been more than enough to suffice my appetite, but then they played "Run the Jewels" and my mind was blown even further. This was their first song. This was what got me into this awesome band. This was their introduction to the world, and to hear them play it live so many years later, it was just tremendous. Both guys again crushed their verses. Killer Mike completely stood out on this one. He owned the stage, with the lights shining down on him as he crushed his verses. El-P was great too, he always is, but Killer Mike brought a little something extra to close out the night.

The show was great and it only reaffirmed my love for Run the Jewels. I highly recommend going to see them if you get the chance. I drove 4 hours from Saint Louis to Kansas City to see them, so you don't have any excuse. Run the Jewels is one of the greatest bands ever, and now, they are one of the greatest touring bands ever. Great show by a great band last night.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. He seen a lot of concerts. Hear about the good, the bad, and the Cubby in a classic X Millennial Man Podcast.  Follow Ty on instagram and twitter.

SeedSing is funded by a group of awesome people. Join them by donating to SeedSing.

Happy Birthday Bob Marley

Before I get into what I am going to talk about today, I want to praise Martellus Bennett. He is a true patriot by refusing to go to the White House to take a picture with the current "president". He is standing by his beliefs, I fully agree and support his decision, his team should too, and I hope this leads to many, many other pro athletes refusing to go to the White House. I know that a second Patriots player has already said that he will not go as well. This makes me very happy that pro athletes, who make millions upon millions of dollars, can see the injustice and stand up for what they believe in. This is just the start, and I know more athletes and coaches, and maybe, just maybe, owners will stand by their players and protest this terrible, awful, racist "government", and not go to these photo ops. Nothing would upset that puppet and child more than pro athletes refusing to come say hi and take a picture. Thank you for starting the revolution Martellus Bennett, and hopefully the majority of pro athletes that win championships will also refuse to go to the White House for the next 4 years.

Okay, now for my main point of today. Yesterday would have been Bob Marley's 72nd birthday. I was going to write about him yesterday, but I had to touch on the Super Bowl. Bob Marley is, and always will be, an idol of mine. He was my introduction to "real" music. Before Bob Marley, I did not listen to music with instruments and decent singers. I was busy listening to pop and crappy rap music. I still listen to some pop music, and my taste in rap has gotten much, much better. But, Bob Marley was my guide. He was my intro to good music. My father and brother sat me down and they played me a bunch of music that they thought I'd like. I heard Cream, Bob Dylan, Run DMC, Ben Harper, Public Enemy, among many others, and while I was blown away by them all, Bob Marley was the one that I kept going back to. I could not get enough of his voice. I could not get enough of his band. 

At the time, I did not understand his message, but as I got older and devoured his entire catalog, I began to not only understand, but also agree with pretty much everything he was singing about. Bob Marley was an activist in a very volatile time in his homeland of Jamaica. He stood up for the downtrodden and did everything he could to help. We could really use a person like him today, that is for sure. But, he always gave back to his people. He always went back home to see his people and help out anyway he could.

Bob Marley was also heavily involved in his religion, Rastafarianism. He was a very close personal friend of Hailee Saliasse, when they were both still alive. Bob Marley was a man that not only talked the talk, he walked the walk. He was a true power to the people person. It is a bummer that he died so young. His religion forbade him from surgery, which could have removed the cancer that started in his toe and spread through his entire body, but he still lived all 36 of his years on Earth to the fullest.

We know Bob Marley for his music, and it is absolutely timeless. I can put on any record of his, and it feels relevant no matter the time. From ages 16-22, Bob Marley was all I listened to. As I said earlier, I devoured his music. I devoured his life story. I was, and I do not think I'm exaggerating, probably the biggest Bob Marley fan in the state of Missouri. His music was literally all I listened to for 6 years. I did everything I could to be like, and act like Bob Marley. I even had dreadlocks for a time, when I had hair. I always proclaim that Robert Johnson was my gateway to playing guitar, and he is, but Bob Marley was my gateway to good music. Through Marley, I learned that music played with instruments could be great. I loved the reggae sound. I loved the heartbeat rhythm to the music. I always feel relaxed when I listen to Bob Marley. His voice in undeniably unique as well. Marley has the greatest voice in the history of reggae music, and one of the greatest voices in music ever. It is so damn great. I even try to mimic his tone when I am singing along in my car, which can be very embarrassing for my wife and kids, but Marley's music moves me like that. I wanted to have a Jamaican accent when I was a high schooler because of Bob Marley.

I just wanted to wish one of my all time favorite musicians a belated happy birthday. I wish he were still alive, god we could really, really use him right now, and I miss him every time I hear his records. If you want some suggestions, go listen to records like "Exodus", "Catch a Fire", "Talkin Blues", his 4 disc box set of all his music, his early ska/reggae stuff, or my personal favorite record, "Burnin and Lootin". It is all great, and given the corrupt nature of the world right now, the music is incredibly poignant. I wish you were still alive, but at least I have your music to listen to for the rest of my life, and that is a great gift you left us. Happy belated birthday Bob Marley, and Rest in Peace.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. He is a strong believer in getting up, and standing up, for your rights. Follow Ty on instagram and twitter.

SeedSing is funded by a group of awesome people. Join them by donating to SeedSing.

Do Yourself a Favor. Start Listening to Little Richard

Cue up the Little Richard, and be happy.

Earlier today I was driving in my car and listening to some Little Richard. I need something upbeat to keep my mind off the horrors that occur everyday now. I've always been a Little Richard fan. I like his voice, his piano playing, his style, everything about him I find very entertaining. I don't think this falls in the greatest American band debate because he is just one man, but I wanted to point out the greatness that is Little Richard, and why I think he is one of the most underrated musicians of all time.

First off, his showmanship is second to none. I have gone on record saying that Freddie Mercury is the best front man of all time in rock music, but Little Richard is a very close second. Going back and watching some old footage of Little Richard is amazing. He absolutely owns the crowd. He is truly one of a kind when it comes to flash and stage presence. He was a hurricane when he performed. The old stuff on You Tube, or anywhere else you see it, is truly amazing. He would have been a stadium performer had he come around now.

Second, his singing is excellent. He rode the line between rock and R&B like no one else I have ever listened to. He had such a soulful voice, but when he needed and felt like he had to rock, he was awesome. Take his most famous song, "Tutti Fruiti". His vocals are so god damn amazing. When he is yell singing the chorus, I want to get up and dance. In actuality, you could say that about the majority of his songs. He hits the R&B when he needs to, but he is so much more of a rock and roller than I think people ever gave him credit for. His voice is legendary and will never be duplicated.

His piano playing was top notch too. He is just as good, better than in my opinion, than Jerry Lee Lewis, but he doesn't get the same recognition. I think it has to do with the fact that he wasn't on Sun Records, but that should not matter. The way he would thrash those keys and how loud, yet sophisticated it sounded was incredible. He could play Beethoven level stuff, but make it a rock and roll song that we could all sing and dance to. I mean, that is astounding. When he would go off on his little solos and hit high notes incredibly fast, my god that was magical.

Little Richard was flashy, he was a great singer, he dressed very stylishly and he owned a stage. So, why do more people not talk abut him being an enormous influence? I mean, without Little Richard, we may have never gotten James Brown. The legend goes, James Brown needed to be convinced to go on stage to perform, and the guy doing the convincing, a young dishwasher/part time musician by the name of Little Richard gave him the confidence he needed to get on a stage. He told him he was special and he gave James Brown that final push he needed. Stevie Wonder owes a great deal of his success to Little Richard. Wonder is definitely more of an R&B guy, but a guy like Little Richard paved the way for a piano player that could rock and play soulful R&B to become ultra famous. Little Richard was the first, then came Stevie Wonder, and I love Stevie wonder. The Beatles owe a ton of their influence from American music to Little Richard. They even tried to do covers of his songs. They did okay, but when the Beatles aren't as good, that is the sign of a true legend. I'm a Beatles fan through and through, but I'd much rather turn on Little Richard when I hear the Beatles attempt to do one of his songs. I know what I will get with Little Richard.

I also happen to think that front men like Freddie Mercury, Steven Tyler, Robert Plant and Mick Jagger owe a ton of debt to Little Richard. They saw him and they saw that they could dress as loudly as they wanted, wear what they wanted and be as free as they wanted on stage because, they saw Little Richard do it long before they became the faces of rock and roll. He was doing it all 10 to 20 years before they even attempted to act like him on stage.

Little Richard is not talked about nearly enough when it comes to legends of, not only R&B, but rock and roll as well. He was more of a rock and roller than a lot of people that are considered legends of rock. I'd take Little Richard any day over people like Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, Steven Tyler, basically almost any of his contemporaries. I also think a lot of younger musicians, people like Adam Levine, Leon Bridges, Raphael Saadiq, I know he isn't young, but he still plays like Little Richard, Nathan Rateliffe, among many, many others, would not be doing what they do today if not for someone like Little Richard.

Little Richard is an all time great. I'm sure he is in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He is recognized by people in the business and industry, but when it comes to fans of older R&B and rock and roll, I think he gets left out of the conversation, and that is unfair. I'm so glad that I have a father and brothers and sister in laws that all introduced me to him when I got heavily into older R&B and rock and roll. Little Richard is one of the most underrated legends of all time. He is truly a master of his craft and he deserves and garners respect from everyone that loves music. As I stated already, we would not have a lot of the people we have today if not for Little Richard.

Do yourself a favor and, to get away from the madness, nightmare hell scape that is our country right now, listen to some Little Richard. He will make you smile and make you want to dance. I know that I am a Millennial, but I am one of the biggest Little Richard fans there are, and I will sing his praises until the cows come home. You are truly a one of a kind legend Little Richard. Thank you for all you have done for music.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. He now knows that Little Richard was part of the very first class inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Follow Ty on instagram and twitter.

SeedSing is funded by a group of awesome people. Join them by donating to SeedSing.

The SeedSing 2016 Year in Pop Culture: The Best, and Worst, in Music

My best of list today will be my top 5 albums of 2016. There was some good music put out this year, but honestly, this was probably the easiest list for me to make. When certain people announced they were putting out new records, I hoped for the best, and for the most part, they all delivered. Lets get to it.

At number 5, I have Frank Ocean's "Blonde". This record was tremendous. The wait was totally worth it. After Ocean put out the phenomenal "Channel Orange", he waited almost 2 and a half years before releasing "Blonde". The wait seemed like it would go on forever. The rumors never stopped, especially after he performed on "SNL", that a new record was in the works, and it would be coming soon. But they never seemed to develop. Then on some random Friday, Ocean announced that he had released his record on social media. I bought it immediately and listened to it right after it downloaded, and it was great. It was a perfect blend of R&B/rap/funk and the weirdness that is Frank Ocean. His voice is tremendous on the record. His switching back and forth between singing and rapping is totally on point. The guests on this record are second to none. Andre 3000's verse is one of the dopest things I've heard in years. "Blonde" is one of the first records that I can remember being worth the wait. Ocean is a super star now, and it is because of the success of "Blonde".

At number 4, I have Chance the Rapper's "Coloring Book". This is one of the most uplifting rap records I have ever heard. Chance the Rapper is a shining light in the music industry right now. He is clearly someone that does it for the love of music, not the fame, money or recognition. Every record he releases, he releases them for free. "Coloring Book" was first put on Apple Music only, but there were many other ways to download the record for free, instantly. Every song on the album has his perfect rap presence on it, but his singing is also really good. Take a song like "Blessings". The chorus is great, and Chance's verses are really good, but his singing on the song is just as good as anything else he does. He too has really blown up recently, due to "SNL" and the fact that he is the Kit Kat spokesman now, but he is one of the better rappers doing music right now. The record has straight forward rap songs, but there are some good R&B songs and some, I almost want to say, gospel type songs. "Coloring Book" is a revelation, and Chance the Rapper is on his way to the top. Go get this record now. It is free and it is awesome.

At number 3, I have my all time favorite rap group's newest record, A Tribe Called Quest's "We Got it From Here...Thank You 4 Your Service". This was a much needed record. After it was announced that Phife Dawg passed away, RIP, the remaining members announced that they were putting out a record of original material. They had some of Phife's vocals still recorded, and they made new songs with what they had, and the material was incredible. The album finds the band with a more politically conscious sound than ever, and it suits them incredibly well. They have great voices, and with what is going on in the world now, we needed to get their thoughts. Q-Tip slays on every song on the record. Ali Shaheed Mohammed is right there with the beats and the one liners that he is the master of. Even Jarobi shows up and does some nice things. Then, we get Phife. Man was he the best of the best. His verses were so great. Hearing him one more time on record was so god damn satisfying. I still miss the hell out of him, but at least I will always have his voice on records, and "WGIFH...TY4YS", he is wonderful. The guest list on this record is better than what Frank Ocean has in "Blonde". Andre 3000 is on this record, so is Jack White and the reemergence of Busta Rhymes. Busta Rhymes is a beast and he sounds dynamite on this record. I hope this means he is contemplating a comeback, because I'd love some new music from him. ATCQ is back, and this new album is awesome. Thank you for releasing it. We as a nation needed this right now.

At number 2, I have the new funk record from Childish Gambino, "Awaken! My Love". This album is incredible, unique, weird and awesome. It is as if Parliament came back and recorded a record for the 21st century. Along with making great TV, i.e. "Atlanta", Donald Glover also released one of the best albums of the year. I have been listening to this record almost nonstop for the past month or so. I love every track on this album. Glover goes totally off script and, instead of releasing a new rap record, he delivers a straight up funk record, and it is incredible. His voice is so tremendous. He hits some crazy high notes that I had no idea he could hit. From the opener, "Me and Your Mama", which is a great blend of funk and rock, to songs like "Boogieman", "Zombies", "California" and "Baby Boy", which are all straight up funk, the album is a homerun. The song "Redbone" may be the track of the year. Glover is tremendous on this song, and his band sounds phenomenal. The chorus may be my anthem for the crap fest that has been 2016. Glover sings, "stay woke/they be creepin/they gon find you/gon catch you sleeping". I mean, that is pretty poetic and prophetic for the state of our country. "Awaken! My Love" is a triumph, and further proves that Donald Glover is the most talented person in show business. I have mentioned him everyday in all my lists so far, so he must be doing something right. This record is incredible, and I cannot wait to see what he does next in TV, movies, but most importantly for me, music. I'm sure it will be awesome.

This all brings me to my number one record of the year, "Run The Jewels 3" by, Run The Jewels. I know this album has only been out for 3 days, but damn it is the shit. The band surprised released the record on Christmas at midnight, and as they would say, "it was a Christmas f&*(ing miracle". I have not stopped listening to the album for the past three days. When I go on runs at night, this record gets me through the 3 miles. When I clean the house, this is what I'm putting on my Echo or headphones. When I'm driving in my car, and my kids are not present, this is what I'm cranking. The record is dope, and this, more than any piece of pop culture this year, is exactly what I, and a bunch of other people need to get through these trying times. EL-P and Killer Mike take on the establishment in every track, and they take it down. These dudes are the voice for the downtrodden and they make me want to start a revolution. I would go to war with these dudes, especially Killer Mike. This record makes me want to accomplish things to take down the current state of the government. This record makes me have visceral responses. I will just yell random things, to no one in particular, when listening to this dope ass album. "RTJ3" is an absolute triumph, and RTJ themselves are the best rappers making music right now. EL-P and Killer Mike are phenomenal. They basically crashed the internet when they surprised announced that they were releasing this record early. I do not care that it has only been out for 3 days, it is the best record of 2016, and it will probably be better than anything put out in 2017. It is a god damn masterpiece. I'm getting fired up just writing about how much I love this record right now. Buy it immediately, if you do not already have it. It is the bomb diggity.

As far as the worst record of the year goes, anything that Drake puts out is always garbage, and the Macklemore record, which I have not heard one song of, I guarantee it is a joke of an album. Drake is an overrated, bandwagon fan, and a wannabe. His rhyming is garbage. His voice is garbage. His beats stink. I'd rather listen to anyone from the early 90's rap than listen to any piece of trash that Drake releases. He is, by far, the most overrated emcee of all time. Then there is Macklemore. Talk about a poseur. This dude and his DJ are fake rappers and Macklemore is the leader of this fake ass sound. He is just as bad as Drake, and he thinks he is "rapping" about important issues, and that he alone is bringing this stuff to light. Macklemore is garbage, and his 15 minutes of fame were done a long, long time ago. Do not listen to anything by these 2 guys because they are both equally terrible.

That's it for today. Come back tomorrow for my best and worst sports moments of 2016.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial Man Podcast. His dislike of Drake goes back to the Degrassi days. Jimmy Brooks was the worst. Follow Ty on instagram and twitter.

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SeedSing's Advent Calendar of Awesome Holiday Music: Day 21 - Hard Candy Christmas

ed note: This article was originally published on December 21st, 2015

The pre-Christmas Day season of Advent is upon us. Here at SeedSing we love the chocolaty goodness of getting a piece of candy once a day until we get to open our presents. As our gift to you we will present a new awesome holiday song for every day of Advent. This is the greatest music of the season. Enjoy.

Day 21: Hard Candy Christmas by Dolly Parton (and the cast of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas)

Opened doors: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten,

 Eleven Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen, Fifteen,Sixteen,Seventeen,Eighteen,

Nineteen, Twenty

The winter solstice can be one of the most dark and depressing days of the year. It is the day with the shortest amount of daylight. Many a December 21st we have been lucky if there were any daylight at all since the weather tends to be very dreary. My feelings on the depressing nature of the first day of winter slightly changed with the 2010 Doctor Who holiday special "A Christmas Carol". The episode introduced the idea that the winter solstice meant we were halfway through the dark. Everyday from here until late June was going to bring more and more light to our world. December 21st was not a day to be dreary, it was a day to think about new beginnings.

In 1978 "Hard Candy Christmas" was the second to last song on the Broadway musical The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas The Carol Hall penned tune gained immortality when Dolly Parton took ownership of the melancholy song in the film version of the play. "Hard Candy Christmas" is not really even about Christmas, it is about finding your next step. Because the festive holiday is put into the title, "Hard Candy Christmas" has been locked into the December song rotation. Dolly has performed it on numerous Christmas specials, and many other musicians have covered the song for Christmas themed albums. Without any direct mentions of yuletide imagery, "Hard Candy Christmas" became winter holiday music tradition.

Late December is always a time for reflection. The year is nearly finished, and everyone gets into a what next mood. "Hard Candy Christmas" acknowledges that things are tough, but we will make it through the hard times maybe and something else. The song fits in perfectly with the beginning of winter. The next 10 days are going to be filled with parties, family, and memories. Our worst moments are going to back into our minds. Many of us will not have the easiest of times on Christmas Day. Yet we should not fear, the dark is halfway gone and we can make it through. We can leave the sorrow behind and find our next victory.

Now that we have made it halfway through the dark together, it is time to dream about what is next. What are you going to do with the growing daylight? Tomorrow may seem tough, but don't let your sorrow bring you way down. You could learn to sew, maybe just lie low, or you could find someone to settle down with. Me, I may just get drunk on apple wine.

RD Kulik

RD is the Head Editor for SeedSing and the host of the X Millennial Man podcast. He will not let a drop of apple wine get near him this year, that way he may lose some weight. Help all of SeedSing avoid a hard candy Christmas by supporting us. 

SeedSing's Advent Calendar of Awesome Holiday Music: Day 20 - Alone on Christmas Day

ed note: This article was originally published on December 20th, 2015

The pre-Christmas Day season of Advent is upon us. Here at SeedSing we love the chocolaty goodness of getting a piece of candy once a day until we get to open our presents. As our gift to you we will present a new awesome holiday song for every day of Advent. This is the greatest music of the season. Enjoy.

Day 20: Alone on Christmas Day by Phoenix and Special Guest Bill Murray

Opened doors: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen, Fifteen,Sixteen,Seventeen,Eighteen, Nineteen

I have spent many Christmas nights all by my lonesome. I was not alone for the whole day. My Christmas mornings have always been about waking up way earlier than normal and opening tons of presents with my family around. Once the intense excitement of Christmas morning was finished, I would pack up my bounty and head back to my 15th floor studio apartment in downtown St. Louis. Most of these Christmas nights I would stare out at the Gateway Arch on the usually cold evening and decided I would get a drink, at the fancy hotel a few buildings down. I would put on my Christmas sweater, wrap a scarf around my neck, and head to the hotel bar. Once inside I would find a seat in a corner booth and observe all the travelers who were truly spending Christmas alone. I would sip my Manhattan, listen to the piano being played, and was thankful I was not alone on Christmas Day. 

Earlier this December, Netflix premiered the Sofia Coppola directed Bill Murray holiday special A Very Murray Christmas. During the course of the program a lonely Bill Murray asks the catering staff at the hotel to play him a song. The staff happens to be french indie rock band Phoenix. The band, with help from Paul Shaffer on piano, Jason Schwartzman on drums, David Johanson (as Buster Poindexter) on martini shaker, and Mr. Bill Murray himself on featured vocals, cover the Beach Boy's rarity "Alone On Christmas Day".

Phoenix and gang take an unknown and discarded Beach Boys tune with "Alone on Christmas Day" and create a new holiday standard. The Beach Boys tune was originally unreleased in 1979, and after Phoenix requested to cover the tune, Mike Love changed some of the lyrics and released his own version. The Phoenix cover is light years better. The tune alludes to the sadness of being by oneself on Christmas, but "Alone on Christmas Day" encourages us to think of the gladness, and to keep moving on. Plus if you listen to the tune, no one is truly alone on Christmas Day. You will still have the bar patrons and employees to sing you a joyful tune.

I was never truly alone on Christmas Day. In the morning I had my family and in the evening I had the travelers and  employees at the hotel bar. We all came to the bar as individuals, but on Christmas evening we were together. The piano played on in the background, our drinks warmed our spirits, and we all got ready to move on, together.

RD Kulik

RD is the Head Editor for SeedSing and the host of the X Millennial Man podcast. He has given up the Christmas Night bar scene and traded it for his family sitting around the fireplace. He did not give up on his yuletide Manhattan. Celebrate the togetherness of Christmas by liking SeedSing on Facebook.

SeedSing's Advent Calendar of Awesome Holiday Music: Day 19 - Merry Something to You

ed note: This article was first published on December 19th, 2015

The pre-Christmas Day season of Advent is upon us. Here at SeedSing we love the chocolaty goodness of getting a piece of candy once a day until we get to open our presents. As our gift to you we will present a new awesome holiday song for every day of Advent. This is the greatest music of the season. Enjoy.

Day 19: Merry Something to You by Devo

Opened doors: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen, Fifteen,Sixteen,Seventeen, Eighteen

There has never been a dumber news story than the idiotic War on Christmas. I understand that Fox News wants to keep white Christians in a perpetual state of anger, but this manufactured outrage is beyond moronic. The people who believe that their white christian values are being trampled upon by groups who want to be inclusive are worse than Scrooge pre-spirits. Jesus was not even born on December 25th, the Christians won that day with their war on paganism. The soldiers fighting to regain Christmas are pathetic.

"Merry Something to You" is an original song by Devo featured on the holiday compilation album Gift Wrapped II: Snowed In. The song is very short, and extremely joyful. Devo welcomes all faiths into the holiday season and wishes them a merry something. "Merry Something to You" is a perfect song to get any faithful, and non faithful, person into a solstice dancing mood.

There is a small throwaway line in "Merry Something to You" that is a direct hit by those trying to take Christmas away. Mark Mothersbaugh invites you to have any belief, but none of it is actually true. BANG. The holidays are not about some archaic story, it is about food and being merry. "Merry Something to You" is gleefully telling the religious zealots to get over themselves.

Devo has inspired me this yuletide season. With only a few days left in the holiday season I want to call a truce with the good Christian soldiers fighting the War on Christmas. So to you Fox News, lets have an old dance and gobble some festive food. Merry something to you. Deedle, deedle, deet, deet, deedle, deedle, deet, deet, doodly, doodly, doo. 

RD Kulik

RD is the Head Editor for SeedSing and the host of the X Millennial Man. He was awarded the Flying Spaghetti Monster uncooked pasta ribbon for bravery during the 2010 War on Christmas. Wish us a merry something by liking SeedSing on Facebook.

SeedSing's Advent Calendar of Awesome Holiday Music: Day 18 - Tree of Life

ed note: This article was first published on December 18th, 2015

The pre-Christmas Day season of Advent is upon us. Here at SeedSing we love the chocolaty goodness of getting a piece of candy once a day until we get to open our presents. As our gift to you we will present a new awesome holiday song for every day of Advent. This is the greatest music of the season. Enjoy.

Day 18: Tree of Life as performed by Princess Leia

Opened doors: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen, Fifteen,Sixteen, Seventeen

I am the father of a young son. One of my primary duties as a father is to teach my boy about being an intelligent, kind, and curious person. During the winter holiday season I have tried my best to introduce my son to the variety of holidays celebrated be different peoples. We put up lights for Diwali, we lit the Menorah for Hanukkah and will light the Kinara for Kwanzaa. I have also made a point of showing the boy all the great holiday entertainment of my youth. Because today is the opening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, I have been trying get my son excited for some new December entertainment. Yet there is one piece of holiday nostalgia that my kid will not get to celebrate this year. This will be another year without the infamous "Star Wars Holiday Special".

In 1978 Star Wars was a national obsession. People were enthralled by the film, kids were excited to be getting empty figurine boxes as Christmas presents, and CBS aired the only official showing of "The Star Wars Holiday Special". The public was not impressed. The comedy stylings of Bea Arthur, Art Carney, and Harvey Korman were made permanent members of the Star Wars mythos due to their involvement in the special. Disco legend Diahann Carrol gets to be Chewbacca's father's (Itchy) fantasy girl. A certain bounty hunter, who was fond of disintegration, was introduced through an animated short. In fact, the Boba Fett cartoon is the only part of "The Star Wars Holiday Special" that gives anyone fond memories. The only celebration was to be for a paid killer, not our heroes.

Then there was the music. The aforementioned Caroll sings, Jefferson Starship started their downward slide into 80s kitsch with a tune. Bea Arthur gets to sing with the Cantina Band (Figrin D'an and the Modal Nodes). But the topping on this disaster cake was Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher)singing the song "Tree of Life" to the original Star Wars theme. 

Life Day was a Wookie holiday similar to Thanksgiving or Christmas. Like any great holiday, Life Day had it's own kind of carol. "Tree of Life", or also known as "A Day to Celebrate", hits all the important notes of any species celebratory season. Peace, harmony, togetherness, and many more themes are sung off key by an extremely sincere Princess Leia. "Tree of Life" and it's seasonal message has become more famous for being a "what the hell" type of song than one that makes people, or wookies, celebrate. Princess Leia did not ruin "The Star Wars Holiday Special" with the awful song, but she made sure the crash was as explosive as possible.

Today is a great day. We get a new Star Wars movie as an early Christmas present. I am very excited to infect my son's mind with all things Skywalker, Jedi, Solo, and more. I will not infect his mind with Star Wars lore that should be crushed in a trash compactor. "The Star Wars Holiday Special" may be spectacularly bad, and "Tree of Life" may be the rotten cherry on the trash dump, but we still have new Star Wars for the holidays. Today is a day to celebrate, to laugh, to dream, to grow, to trust, to love, to be.

RD Kulik

RD is the Head Editor for SeedSing and the host of the X Millennial Man podcast. He wonders what happened to Chewie's wife Malla, and their kids, between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens. Did the Midichlorians get them? Make this a day for SeedSing to celebrate by liking us on Facebook.  

SeedSing's Advent Calendar of Awesome Holiday Music: Day 17 - Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)

ed note: This article was originally published on December 17th, 2015

The pre-Christmas Day season of Advent is upon us. Here at SeedSing we love the chocolaty goodness of getting a piece of candy once a day until we get to open our presents. As our gift to you we will present a new awesome holiday song for every day of Advent. This is the greatest music of the season. Enjoy.

Day 17: Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight) by the Ramones

Opened doors: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen, Fifteen, Sixteen

Every Christmas I drive my wife and son to St. Louis so we can visit our family. In some ways I am lucky because my parents and in-laws live in the same metro area. It does seem very convenient that we can spend the holidays at both parents households. In reality it has been stressful at times running between two households. My wife and I have many discussions leading up to our journey about who we will see and on what days. Sometimes these discussions become tense and we give up negotiating with each other. During the joys of the holiday season my wife and I will get into arguments about our plans. We rarely fight, but Christmas has a special power over many loving couples.

"Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)" was the final track on The Ramones 1989 album Brain Drain. The song has the typical Ramones sound. Joey Ramones iconic voice, the driving repetitive guitar, the brevity. Like many other holiday songs, "Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)" uses iconic Christmas imagery. Rudolph, Santa, snow, sugar plum fairies, and sleeping children all pop up in the tune. Christmas is supposed to be about these ideals, it is not a time to fight.

Society tells us that loving couples never fight. That is incredibly naive. "Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)" recognizes that people who love one another will fight. Joey just wants us to remember that it is Christmas, we should not be attacking each other. The Ramones believe the best way to not fight is to think of everything great about the holidays. When the fighting starts, think of Christmas, and we can all calm down.

I am an idiot for having silly arguments with my wife around the holidays, or anytime of the year. We are very lucky to have our parents in the same city. We are very lucky to have loving people around us during the holidays. When I start to get anxious discussing our Christmas schedule with my wife I will hum the catchy tune from the Ramones and think of everything great about the holiday. I will remember to tell my wife Merry Christmas, I don't want to fight tonight.

RD Kulik

RD is the Head Editor for SeedSing and the host of the X Millennial Man podcast. He and his wife rarely argue around Christmas anymore. They save their disagreements about which "Star" franchise is the best. The correct answer is Star Wars. Come tell RD why his view is correct by writing for SeedSing.

SeedSing's Advent Calendar of Awesome Holiday Music: Day 16 - Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer

ed note: This article was originally published on December 16th, 2015

The pre-Christmas Day season of Advent is upon us. Here at SeedSing we love the chocolaty goodness of getting a piece of candy once a day until we get to open our presents. As our gift to you we will present a new awesome holiday song for every day of Advent. This is the greatest music of the season. Enjoy.

Day 16: Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer by The Simpsons

Opened doors: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen, Fifteen

For the Advent Calendar of Awesome Holiday Music, I'm going to talk about the classic, "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer".

This is a real, authentic holiday song that I actually enjoy. I remember singing this in the school choir an an elementary student. I remember singing it amongst friends all the way through high school. And now, I'm starting to hear my three year old sing it, and it's making me sing along with him. It's a great song about an outsider overcoming adversity and, basically, saving the day.

The song was written in 1949 by Johnny Marks and it's still as popular today as it was when it came out 66 years ago. This is truly a generational song. Many famous performers have recorded versions of this song. People like Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, Paul Anka, Burl Ives, The Jackson 5 and Paul McCartney just to name a few. But, I prefer the 1949 original. This song is so popular, they made a movie entirely based on the tune. The movie is fantastic too. Check out the original one that's an animated/claymation movie, it's really great.

Let's look at the song. As I said, it's about an outsider that's needed in a desperate time of need. But, it starts off looking grim for Rudolph. First of all, the reindeer has an abnormality. All the other reindeer look similar, but Rudolph, he has a shiny red nosed. The song even claims that "you could even say it glows". Damn, that must be a really bright red nose. Then, poor Rudolph gets picked on by the other reindeer. They, "used to laugh and call him names". That's brutal. Poor Rudolph. They wouldn't even let him play games with them. What a bunch of dicks. But, then it's starting to look grim outside on Christmas Eve. Santa doesn't like the look of the weather that he will be flying through. This is when Santa steps up his game, acts like an adult, finally, and speaks up for Rudolph. As the song says, "then one foggy Christmas Eve, Santa came to say, Rudolph with your nose so bright, won't you glide my sleigh tonight". Way to step up Santa. I like your tactics. He doesn't bad mouth the other reindeer for picking on Rudolph, no, he just politely asks Rudolph, in front of all the other reindeer, if he wants to be a leader. I love it. Rudolph jumps at the chance to lead and he does a kick ass job. He does such a good job, the other reindeer stop picking on him and as the song goes, "then how the reindeer loved him, as they shouted out with glee. Rudolph the red nosed reindeer, you'll go down in history". They like him so much now, they say that he will be remembered for all of time as a hero. Children and other reindeer will look up to Rudolph. He's not an outcast anymore, he's the hero.

This is such a good song. It has everything you could want. There's a conflict, an older, wiser adult steps in and the one that was picked on, saves the day. Does it get any better than that? And this is a great time of year to have this song. The holidays can sometimes be a bummer, so why not have a song about overcoming adversity and triumphing. It's phenomenal. There's other versions, I remember singing added lyrics after original verses. Stuff like after "you could even say it glows", we'd say, "like a lightbulb!" Or "wouldn't let him join in any reindeer games", we'd say, "like Monopoly!". Everybody knows the version I'm talking about. "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" is a perfect holiday song. I love it, my wife loves it and my kids love it. I'm sure about 99 percent of the people out there love this song. Go listen to all iterations of it, but if you want the best, listen to the original. And during this holiday, if you're feeling stressed, put yourself in Rudolph's shoes. He overcame teasing and being secluded to become a hero.

Rudolph is a true inspiration.

Ty

Ty is the Pop Culture editor for SeedSing and the other host of the X Millennial  Man podcast. He was picked on when he was little because all the other kids could not deal with how handsome Ty was. Get caught up in Ty's good looks by following him on twitter. @tykulik.

SeedSing's Advent Calendar of Awesome Holiday Music: Day 15 - Christmas Lights

ed note: This article was originally published on December 15th, 2015

The pre-Christmas Day season of Advent is upon us. Here at SeedSing we love the chocolaty goodness of getting a piece of candy once a day until we get to open our presents. As our gift to you we will present a new awesome holiday song for every day of Advent. This is the greatest music of the season. Enjoy.

Day 15: Christmas Lights by Daniel Hudson

Opened Doors: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen 

When it comes to Christmas lights, I tend to be an insufferable traditionalist. I will only use white, non-blinking lights in my yuletide presentation. My tree, white non-blinking. Outside lighting, white non-blinking. My pre-lit fake garland, only the best non-blinking white traditional lights. Multi color lights are for amateurs. Blinking lights are a big annoyance. Inflatable glowing Christmas characters are the most tacky. In the dead of the December night, I want my house draped in tiny bits of uniform white light. I take my Christmas lights very seriously, even if they are usually just the backdrop on the whole holiday season.

In 2012 singer-songwriter Daniel Hudson released the song "Christmas Lights" on the holiday compilation album A Very Jorma Christmas. The tune is a simple, infectious, piece of pop. Hudson joyfully breezes through everything that makes the holiday great. Hope for love, snow, and brightly colored lights. Yes, Daniel Hudson is not as particular about his light choices as I am, and he seems to be having a great time. The song is so happy and simple, it would make a great December bowling alley karaoke tune. In fact it is used in a karaoke scene in the recent Seth Rogen comedy The Night Before. 

The thing I love most about 'Christmas Lights" is how easy it is to fall in love with the tune. The lyrics flow together, the music is basic, yet it all comes together into something magical. The holiday season is filled with so much activity, and it always seems so hectic. "Christmas Lights" hits all the high points of the year, and makes it simple. "Christmas Lights" is the perfect song to listen to while you enjoy your neighbors displays. It puts you into a perfect, and bright, spirit.

The days are getting shorter, and many houses are being lit up all night with their bright and colorful Christmas lights. I, like Daniel Hudson, have a giddy little song in my heart when I drive around town and see the varying light displays. I also accept that the lights are secondary to other aspects of the seasons. "Christmas Lights" may be ok with the bright colorful displays, but my love for the song will not change my stance on proper holiday lighting.

RD Kulik

RD is the Head Editor for SeedSing. He may be snobby about lights, but he has had a fake tree his entire adult life. Come in and tell us your insufferable holiday traditions by writing for SeedSing.

SeedSing's Advent Calendar of Awesome Holiday Music: Day 14 - Fairytale of New York

ed note: This article was originally published on December 14th, 2015

The pre-Christmas Day season of Advent is upon us. Here at SeedSing we love the chocolaty goodness of getting a piece of candy once a day until we get to open our presents. As our gift to you we will present a new awesome holiday song for every day of Advent. This is the greatest music of the season. Enjoy.

Day 14: Fairytale of New York by The Pogues (featuring Kirsty MacColl)

Opened Doors: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven Twelve, Thirteen

I once spent a magical December evening in New York City. My wife and I had an overnight layover in the city on our way for a tropical Christmas vacation. It was bitterly cold that evening. We bundled up and caught the subway to have a nice dinner in Manhattan. The few cold hours we spent in New York City that December were amazing. The city was decked all out for the upcoming holiday. It was magical. On our plane leaving the city I glanced down for one last look. The joys of New York City during Christmas was a memory I will never lose. I am glad I did not stick around to see the hopefulness of Christmas give way to the brutal realities New York City is home to the rest of the year.

"Fairytale of New York" was released by the Irish band The Pogues on their 1987 album If I Should Fall from Grace with God. It is rumored that the song was written based on a bet between Elvis Costello and The Pogues lead singer Shane MacGowan. Costello bet that MacGowan could not write a hit Christmas single. Once the music and lyrics were set, singer songwriter Kirsty MacColl joined MacGowan to sing the song as a duet. Elvis Costello must have lost the bet, because "Fairytale of New York" has spent the last few decades as one of the most popular Christmas songs in the United Kingdom.

"Fairytale of New York" starts off with the magic of New York City during the holidays. MacGowan and McColl are young, in love, and inspired.Being in the drunk tank on Christmas Eve cannot dampen their spirits. They have each other and the wonders of the city. The song treats their ideals as fake as the decorations around town. Love and admiration quickly turns to name calling and regret. Behind the holiday facade of the city lies a brutal, and ugly, reality. The two lovers were embracing the facade, but once the decorations are gone, their hate and despair shows through. They love the imagery and magic, they unfortunately do not really like each other.

The build up to Christmas can make us forget all the unfortunate things that confront us during the year. Our hopes, dreams, and love seem to get amplified in December. Once our holiday drunken stupor turns into a post December 25th hangover, our realities come into sharp focus. I enjoy the magic, and I am trying to prepare for the headaches. Thank goodness I will have the fine Irish ditty "Fairytale of New York" to be my musical companion through the transition.

RD Kulik

RD is the Head Editor for SeedSing. He is embaressed to say that his dinner in New York that night was at Trump Tower. Come and tell your tales of Christmas in the city by writing for SeedSing.

SeedSing's Advent Calendar of Awesome Holiday Music: Day 13 - The Twelve Days of Christmas

ed note: This article was originally published on December 13th, 2015

The pre-Christmas Day season of Advent is upon us. Here at SeedSing we love the chocolaty goodness of getting a piece of candy once a day until we get to open our presents. As our gift to you we will present a new awesome holiday song for every day of Advent. This is the greatest music of the season. Enjoy.

Day 13: The Twelve Days of Christmas by Bob and Doug McKenzie

Opened Doors: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven Twelve

When I was growing up I used to love to go Christmas caroling with some neighborhood families. I loved getting bundled up, sipping on hot cocoa, and singing the classic Christmas tunes in a large group. The way I remember the scene is very Norman Rockwellesque. Of all the classic tunes we would sing, I looked most forward to "The Twelve Days of Christmas". Like every other kid I enjoyed belting out the part about the five golden rings. The twelve days song was the peak of the Christmas season. The twelve days was the top reason to go out caroling.

As I grew older I started to real dislike "The 12 Days of Christmas" The gifts make no sense. What were the actual twelve days of Christmas? The length and repetitive nature of the song is excruciating. Every modern version of the song takes the horrid tune, and makes it a whole lot worse. My love for the song was pure childhood ignorance. If I could spend a whole holiday season without having to think about pipers piping, maids a milking, or five freaking golden rings I would be so happy.

On the 1981 comedy album The Great White North , Bob and Doug McKenzie (characters created and played by Rick Moranis and Dave Thomas) redeemed "The Twelve Days of Christmas" with their comedic look at what Canadian hillbillies thought of the twelve days of presents. The entire song takes everything bad about the original, and makes it a whole lot more fun. They first try to identify what the actual twelve days are. We all know about Christmas and Christmas Eve, but we often forget Boxing Day (or is it wrestling day?). Who in their right mind would think a partridge in a pear tree is a great gift. The McKenzie brothers know that a beer is a great way to start of the first day of Christmas. Plus once you get eight comic books, there is no point to go on with the next few days. The McKenzie brothers understand how idiotic the original is, and just cut it off before the end to make the point. Coming up with twelve days is too hard.

Christmas is only twelve days away. Go out and enjoy shopping for presents. Give the McKenzie brothers "Twelve Days of Christmas" a listen and get some ideas. Any good person could use five golden tuques. If you are truly in a giving mood, go to a good doughnut shop and get me a bakers dozen for Christmas. Then I will fall in love with the music of the thirteen days of Christmas.

RD Kulik

RD is the Head Editor for SeedSing. Instead of the seven packs of smokes, he really wants 7 writers blogging. Make his Christmas wish come true by writing for SeedSing.