The race is over and I survived!

Today I reached an unbelievable personal goal, completing a half-marathon after about two months of training. I started on this project as both a personal challenge, and as a way to inspire people through the American College of Endocrinology Power of Prevention program. Along the way, I have heard from so many of you who are following my progress, have been inspired yourselves, or who are just rooting me on to success. On this Thanksgiving Day, I have to tell you all how grateful I am for all of your support.  What started out as a project to inspire others has certainly changed my life, and a significant part of that comes from all of you.

Now, on to race day.

First, a brief note.  I did not run with my iPhone, so I did not take any pictures.  Sarah took some, and I will work to add them later in the day.

So, I guess the story begins with dinner last night. My good friend Britt has been following my progress in this training regimen, and was sorry to tell me that he would not be able to come out to the run and see me finish, due to the fact he is out of town today. But he did offer to help me carbo load the night before. So last night our two families went out and enjoyed a delicious Italian dinner. In fact, I had to stop loading because I was too full. (I had an awesome shrimp alfredo Sicilian style pizza. Pictures forthcoming as well. I promise you will be jealous).

I got home and had a good night’s sleep.  This morning when I woke up, my number one priority was my pre-race preparations. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, go here to get up to speed, but suffice it to say, I was very nervous about making sure this was not a problem today.

Not joking, I resorted to jumping jacks in the living room, but it all came out fine in the end (did I really just type that?)

Sarah and I headed out to the run at about 6:45.  Race time was 8:00, but we wanted to get a decent parking spot and I also wanted to do a mile pre-run before the race to get loosened up.

People up north can complain about this next sentence, but it was cold this morning.  It was probably only 50 degrees when we got to the race site. I was not concerned about the race, because I know how much I heat up when I am running, but I was definitely freezing waiting for the race to start.

Sarah and our friend Melissa were running the 6k at the same time.  The starting line and starting time were the same, so we got “in the blocks” together and waited for the run to begin. After a pre-recorded National Anthem from Lee Ann Rhimes, the race was set to begin.

We had positioned ourselves towards the middle of the group.  We knew we were not fast enough to be in the front, but did not want to get stuck behind the walkers in the back, either. The gun sounded and we were off.  It took about a minute or so to cross the starting line. I’m glad this was a chip race, because I’m interested to see how off my chip time is from the race time. The first mile was the typical jockeying for position that you see at any race. I tried to keep my pace slow and steady, but it is definitely hard with the adrenaline of all the other runners around you.

Around mile one, the course split for the 1/2 marathoners and the 6k, so the crowds thinned considerably at that point. It was about this time that I realized I had forgotten to start the timer on my watch. This is a dual problem, because I had no way to track my time, and because it was not recording my heart rate (long time readers know that I have a history of overheating when not monitoring my heart rate closely). So I started the timer and hoped that at some point there would be a timer on the course that would allow me to get some idea of how I was doing.

The first course clock did not come until mile two.  The race time at that point was 19 minutes. That meant that even if I had been at the front of the pack, I was pacing at sub-ten minute miles. This was both exciting and troubling. Exciting, because I did not feel like I was moving at that pace and felt fairly good. Troubling because I was not sure I could maintain this pace for eleven more miles.

The next few miles were relatively uneventful. I was able to maintain that 9:30ish pace and was not feeling tired. One thing I did not do was take water at the water stations. I have learned from experience that I get bad cramping if I drink anything while running. I had tried to hydrate myself well before the race, and was banking on that being good enough.

The race was actually quite uneventful in general until about mile eight. Right about that time my feet began to really hurt, especially on the instep. I know that I am due for new shoes, but did not want to get them so close to race time. Many runners have told me that’s a recipe for disaster with blisters and real problems on race day. But what was a mild nuisance at mile eight had become a real pain by mile nine.

The mile nine refreshment center had something I can only refer to as runner’s goo. It came in a foil packet, and had the consistency of Vaseline.  But it tasted good, was packed with sugars and caffeine, and really gave me a bit of a boost when I really needed it.

By mile ten, I was in uncharted waters. Ten miles is the previous longest run I had ever done, and I still had a full 5k to go to finish. I resorted to counting miles, not in distance, but in songs. At my pace (I had slowed to about an even ten minute mile pace, by now) I knew it was about two and a half songs between miles. So I just focused on the music and plowed ahead.

At mile eleven, the pain in my feet moved to my calves. This was a new experience for me. Whenever I run, the only true obstacle is breathing. I never have physical pain in my legs that prohibits me from going forward. So this really caught me off-guard. I knew that I only had two miles to go, however, and was determined to power through it, no matter what.

At mile twelve, I could smell the finish line, and so could the rest of the group running at my pace. Everyone kicked it up a notch at that point. I did the same, despite what my legs were screaming to me (R-rated, can’t repeat here). That lasted maybe a quarter of a mile. That’s when I thought I was going to collapse. Despite the fact that I had made it more than twelve miles without stopping once, I had to stop and stretch out my legs, then walk for about 30 seconds. I regret this terribly, but really don’t think there was anything else I could do at that point.

Once I started back up again, I decided to keep the pace slower and just get to the finish line. Two songs later, I was crossing the thirteen mile marker. At this point I knew that I had a 1/10 mile sprint in me, so I kicked it in and raced to the finish line, passing up a couple of guys down the stretch!

Final time: 2:07:18! Official results here: http://www.1stplacesports.com/obdc09halfres.htm

I looked around for Sarah, who had finished the 6k about and hour and 20 minutes earlier, but could not see her anywhere. So I got some water and tried to work out my legs a little bit. About 7-8 minutes later Sarah spotted me in the crowd and came over. I had anticipated finishing between 2:15 and 2:30, so she had gone home and got the turkey and stuffing in the oven, then was going to come back and watch me finish and take some pictures. Since I beat my goal time by about eight minutes, she missed the finish.

She’s more upset about that than I am. I’m glad she came back at all, and I appreciated the support in any case.

So we met up with some friends and compared times, then headed over to get a banana… AND THEY WERE OUT! So I settled for some orange slices and a couple of Michelob Ultras. Sarah also grabbed an Ultra, that she was actually getting for me.

As we walked to the van, I saw a sign for a “Brazilian Honey Bakery”. Having no idea what in the world that is, we headed inside and asked the question “What in the world is a Brazilian Honey Bakery?” The proprietor proceeded to give me a sample of a cheese bread pastry, which was so good, I immediately ordered a dozen.

And with that, we packed into the van, and headed for home. I received all of your well wishes on email, Facebook, and Twitter. You really have no idea how much that means to me. I am thankful today for all of you who have supported me through this training, and I look forward to sharing with you my next plan…

Until then, you know the drill…

Vital Statistics:

Workout: 13.1 Miles

Time: 2:07:18

Pace: 9:43

Playlist:

Neither Can I – Slash’s Snakepit

Estranged – Guns N Roses

Believe – Disturbed

Always On The Run – Lenny Kravitz

Sure Shot – The Beastie Boys

The Battle of Evermore – Led Zeppelin

I.R.S. – Guns N Roses

Brain Stew – Green Day

Miss Independent – Ne-Yo

Rusty Cage – Johnny Cash

The Way You Make Me Feel – Michael Jackson

Best I Can – Queensryche

All Along The Watchtower – Jimi Hendrix

Get It Together – The Beastie Boys

Strength Beyond Strength – Pantera

Hella Good – No Doubt

Hanger 18 – Megadeth

Used To Love Her – Guns N Roses

One – Creed

Razor – Foo Fighters

After The World – Disciple

Hollaback Girl – Gwen Stefani

Elvis Is Dead – Living Colour

Jane Says – Jane’s Addiction

Territorial Pissings – Nirvana

Madagascar – Guns N Roses

No Rain – Blind Melon

Monkey Wrench – Foo Fighters

It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over – Lenny Kravitz

There Is No God – Extreme

Gwen Stefani que me desculpe, “What You Waiting For?” era sem dúvidas o melhor video inspirado em “Alice no País das Maravilhas“, porém depois de ver  o vídeo de “Brick by Boring Brick” do Paramore mudei de idéia.

A produção do vídeo está perfeita e a vocalista Hayley Williams impecável.

Deixou até aquele cabelo “vermelho fogo” de lado e ficou lorinha e com carinha de Alice no vídeo e o melhor são as fadinhas e outras criaturas fantásticas.

Amo Paramore e tenho certeza que eles estão no caminho certo, pois equanto escrevia esta matéria, estava ouvindo o novo cd da banda e compensa muito (pra quem gosta) comprar.

Tem muito de No Doubt em todas as músicas. Comparações à parte, adorei mesmo o vídeo.Vejam abaixo:

Dá-lhe Paramore!

Gilvan Oliveira
XX

The December issue of InStyle magazine, which has Taylor Swift on the cover, features a piece of HSN jewelry. But the necklace is already on Wait List.

The $250 crystal and silk ribbon necklace is from HSN’s RK by Ranjana Khan line. There is a picture of it in the “Try One!” feature on Page 197 of InStyle.

Interestingly enough, that same InStyle issue also has a “Beauty Talk” Q&A with No Doubt lead singer Gwen Stefani.

In it, there is a photo of Stefan’s new Snow Bunny Harajuku Lovers perfumes. That collection of five eau de toilette dolls was a Today’s Special on HSN earlier this week.

But in InStyle, it just says that the Harajuku Snow Bunny collection can be purchased at Sephora.com, no mention of HSN.

“It’s My Life” is a song by the British synthpop band Talk Talk. In 2003, No Doubt recorded a cover version of the song to promote their greatest hits album The Singles 1992–2003. Because the band was on hiatus, while lead singer Gwen Stefani recorded her solo debut album Love. Angel. Music. Baby., they decided to record a cover to avoid having to write a new song. The band listened to hundreds of songs and narrowed it down to “It’s My Life” and INXS‘ 1982 song “Don’t Change“.

No Doubt had doubts on recording a cover and contemplated writing new material. However, they decided on “It’s My Life” after rehearsing it with producer Nellee Hooper, referring to it as a “feel good” song. The track was nominated for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal at the 47th Grammy Awards.

Chart Performance

The cover was successful in the United States, reaching number ten on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and remaining on the chart for twenty-eight weeks. It was moderately successful on adult contemporary stations, reaching number twenty on the Adult Contemporary chart, but had high longevity and appeared atop the Adult Top 40’s recurrent chart. The single was more successful in clubs, peaking at number sixteen on the Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart, and had some play on modern rock stations, reaching number thirty-two on the Modern Rock Tracks. The Recording Industry Association of America certified the digital download gold for selling half a million copies.

On the UK Singles Chart, “It’s My Life” debuted at number twenty but was unable to reach a higher position until it was released with a remix of the No Doubt song Bathwater which boasted the single up to number 17. The single dropped off the chart after seven weeks. It was more of a success across Europe, reaching the top ten in Italy, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden and the top twenty in Austria, Belgium, France, and Switzerland. The single reached number seven on the ARIA Singles Chart, lasting seventeen weeks on the chart, and was listed at number eighty-one on the 2004 end-of-year chart. The Australian Recording Industry Association certified the single platinum in 2004 for shipping 70,000 copies.

Music Video

The 1930s-style music video was directed by David LaChapelle. In the song’s music video, Stefani portrays a black widow whose look closely resembles that of actress Jean Harlow, who is put on trial and sentenced to die for the murders of three men she knew, portrayed by the other members of the band. In between the death scenes are scenes of Stefani in court and being dragged to the gas chamber where she is executed. The video ends with the three murder victims in the afterlife, laughing and watching her televised execution.

The music video was moderately successful on video chart programs. On MTV’s Total Request Live, it reached number seven in November 2003 and was on the countdown as late as January 2004. The video peaked at number eight on MuchMusic’s Countdown and remained on the program through March 2004. At the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards, “It’s My Life” won the awards for Best Group Video and Best Pop Video. It also received nominations for Best Direction, Best Cinematography, and Best Art Direction^.

The Remixes

Stuart Price, producer and remixer of artists like Madonna, Missy Elliott, The Killers, Gwen Stefani, Seal, and Keane, created the Thin White Duke mix of “It’s My Life”, which won the award for Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical. This version was featured on the video game Karaoke Revolution Volume 2. On December 9, 2008 it was also made available as downloadable content for the Rock Band series.

The Chocolate O’Brian Remix was produced by Stephen Bradley and Dave Tweedie. Bradley plays the trumpet, keyboard, and is a backup singer for No Doubt. In addition to his work with No Doubt, he collaborated with Green Day, Gwen Stefani, Sugar Ray as well as performing with Outkast, Black Eyed Peas, The Specials, Sly and Robbie, Sting, Bounty Killer, Eve, Phantom Planet, and Josh Groban. In 2002 Tweedie and Bradley formed Chocolate O’Brian Productions.

I don’t have producer information on The Great People Club Remix. If anybody does, please let me know and I will add it. As far as I know, this version is commercially unavailable on compact disc.

Label:

Interscope Records

Catalog Number:

NODOUBTCDP2

Track Listing and Details:

1. It’s My Life (Jacques Lu Cont’s Thin White Duke Remix) (6:59)

2. It’s My Life (Chocolate O’Brian Remix) (6:28)

3. It’s My Life (Great People Club Remix) (6:27)

Original version produced by Nellee Hooper and No Doubt
Tracks 1 remixed by Thin White Duke
Track 2 remixed by Chocolate O’Brian
Track 3 remixed by Great People

Rip Information:

Source: CD

Format: mp3

Bitrate: 320 kbps

Password: steptothebeatblog

To rate this post, click on the comments hyperlink below its title.

I’m dating someone whose all time favorite song is No Doubt’s “I’m Just a Girl.”

Welcome back to Inspire Me! This latest installment combines my love of music with my complete devotion to style. Don’t worry, this post is not about how I just knew fashion was my calling the moment I heard Madonna’s “Vogue,” RuPaul’s “Work It,” or as much as I love him(&song) David Bowie’s “Fashion.” O, HighEnders, Mimi is far clever-er than that. This music meets moda piece is geared toward my fellow MTV babies, so its all about the music video! Remember the days when MTV was about…well, music? Yea, it’s a distant memory of the 90s for me, too. Well, this InspireMe post is a throwback to the days when artists, not hideo drunken 20-somethings dominated the Music Tube.

Janet Jackson “Love Will Never Do Without You”

I remember being in the third grade and thinking this was the most romantic song I’d ever heard. It didn’t make me want just a play boyfriend to hopscotch and jumprope with. O no, I was a sophisticated grade-schooler- I wanted a real relationship, something that made me totally understand Janet’s passion and romantic bliss. And the video? Well, I was totally mesmerized by the classic black&white, her FIIIIINE co-stars, and most important the retro, yet fresh feel of JJ’s look. In a black tank, a Goody headband and what would now be considered “mom” jeans, Janet is at her sexiest. And for Ms. Jackson (because we’re nasty ) that’s saying a whole lot.

Beyonce “Deja Vu”

Lemme just give you a lil clip from summer 2006- Deja Vu comes on the radio “Hmmm…whatever, Bey. I’ve heard better. Is ‘Promiscuous Girl’ on yet?” Deja Vu video comes on MTV- “GOTdamn, lil mama. I was joking…You know that I can’t get over youuuuu!” I instantly fell for Bey’s perfectly wild mane and Louisiana-induced glow, but her clothes had me captivated. In frilly minis, floral frocks and sophisticated accessories, she evokes the impeccable Southern-lady style of one of my fave films Eve’s Bayou. But the nod is subtle and totally modern.  And the mix of styles, colors, fabrics and genres pays homage to the wonderful hodgepodge of Creole culture. Lesson- can’t nobody shake it in couture as chicly as Bey.

Nirvana- “In Bloom”

When I was in elementary school, we weren’t “Hit(tin) Me Baby..One More Time” or looking for “The Sign” via Ace of Base. O, no, we were grade school rockers- blasting Smashing Pumpkins, Stone Temple Pilots and the Kings of Grunge- well, Nirvana, of course! They were full of youth angst and gritty like the bottom of a Doc Marten.  But the video for “In Bloom” shows the cheekier and chicer side to the band. Though dressed in 50s-style garb, they are bringing “damn the man” lyrics to middle American on this Johnny Carson-like show. Come on, ya know you love seeing the handsome Kurt Cobain in something sleeker than oversized plaid and dirty denim.

No Doubt- “It’s My Life”

I go totally ga-ga for Gwen, so imagine my sartorial psychosis when I first saw the “It’s My Life” video. Gwen is absolutely ravishing in Jean Harlow-esque elegance. Those marcel waves, her signature red lip, and that impeccable wardrobe. I live for the luxe silks and satins, fab furs and retro lingerie. And the “Chicago” storyline and beautiful set design just add to Gwen’s glory.

En Vogue- “Free Your Mind”

This brash and sassy video is a celebration of the 90s that somehow fits perfectly in the new millennium. Over the knee boots? Tres Fall ‘09! Leotard as outfit? Lady Gaga circa NOW! Body-con…everything? Well, you get the point! But what I find most inspirational about this gorgeous girl group is how they manage to simultaneously be super-sexy sans the slutty. (Pussycat Dolls, ya listening?) They’re rippin’ the runway, not sexy-crawlin’ and hair-tossin’ down the thing. If this is what “Freein’ Your Mind” looks like, sign Mimi up!

There are gobs more stylish videos- Who doesn’t want to be a Harajuku Girl extra in Weezy’s “Stronger?” Jay-Z’s “Excuse Me Miss”? Hello diamonds and fur! And of course nearly everything by Madame Madge is 80s, 90s and 2000s perfection. But these are the ones that “Make Her Say…” (speakin’ of Kid Cudi) oo la la- molto video-chic!

All right, HighEnders, what are your inspirational picks? GiMimi GiMimi!

Gwen Stefani's Harajuku Perfumes

If a celebrity is doing a line for a home shopping channel, using their star power to try and drive sales, then we think he or she should actually show up at the venue.

But Stefani is not listed on HSN’s online program guide for midnight tonight, when the Today’s Specials debut. But Stefani, the trend-setting blonde from Orange County, did do a video clip on her perfume for HSN’s Web site.

Here’s what HSN’s Web site says about the Japanese Harajuku dolls that the perfume comes in.

“Express your individuality with a selection of eau de toilette sprays inspired by Gwen Stefani’s love of the outrageous, eye-catching street scene of the Harajuku shopping district in Tokyo,” the site says. “Packaged in adorable doll decanters, each of the fragrances in this chic collection corresponds to the personality of a Harajuku Girl. Choose from Love, Lil’ Angel, Music, Baby and G and find a scent that fits your style.”

Today, we cannot just list one Song of the Day.  So sorry.  We are going to do ode’ to Gwen today, cause I think she rocks, a lot.  Also, because she lives in the lovely OC.  Here are your downloads for today:

What You Waiting For  ~ My theme song, right?

Early Winter

Underneath It All

It’s My Life 

Four In The Morning ~ My fav Gwen song…

Orange County Girl

Cheers! 

New decade New music, Beyonce and Lady Gaga have token over the charts this past year. So don’t expect them to slow dowm for the 2010. Beyonce announced at her final concert in London that she would be reconding a new album for next year Beyonce’World reports. Also mega producer Rodney “Darkchild’ Jerkins also hinted on his twitter that he was working on somthing somthing for the super diva. The Beyonce haters and even some fans thinks she should give it a rest. I think Bey has one more album in her before she steps away from the spotlight at  for a while.

Pop sensation Lady Gaga said in a recent interview

The Fame Monster really is a new album, so I guess it’s kind of my second album, and then I’ll put out a third album I guess next year.”

GaGa will now join Beyonce, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and many others who are due to drop their next albums in 2010.

Latoya also is putting in more work for another Lp she said

In the next couple of months I’ll be starting on my third solo album.

I always talk about what I’m going through at the time [on my albums]. The Lady Love album was filled with some of the angry records, the confused records, but it also had the sweet “I Need A U’s” and all of those things, so I’ll try and make another gumbo record, just mix it up. Hopefully I’ll be more in love on the next album!

I Need A U was one of the best songs Of this year. We need more of that please. Really excited for  next year. It’s going to go so hard yall just don’t know.

Also expect new releases from No Doubt, Janet Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, Ciara ,Cassie, Christina Milan and a lot more.

Eliminating your debt will &#1068e one of the toughest things you will have t&#959 do over ti&#1084e and &#1110t takes perseverance and discipline. Ther&#1257 &#1072re many resources on th&#1257 Web t&#959 help you succeed &#1110n your quest for financial fr&#1257edom. Living debt free &#1110s &#1072 way of lif&#1257, and y&#959u have to put you&#1075self in the mindset to succeed and it &#969ill happen if y&#959u believe and ta&#312e action.

#171 – No Doubt – “Just a Girl” – (1995)

Tragic Kingdom is one of my favorite albums of all time and it just so happens to come from one of my favorite bands. The great ska beat on this, their first single, is what I’ve come to expect from what is an undeniably kick-ass group.

Credit Card Debt Consolidation services can make it happen, and there’s no doubt about it. There’s no reason to delay and zero to lose. Credit card debt consolidation can also help you avoid creditor nuisance , one of the main elements that trigger stress prompted health problems. Credit card debt consolidation usually makes the total balance more docile generally if a lower interest rate is provided. But, if there are mixed other accounts concerned that were not part of the consolidating effort, it may take some time to get them all marked down to a docile level.

Typically, when a patron buys a product with his card or uses his card as an alternative for hard cash, he is offering an interest free credit period. The patron has to make a payment for the credit used on the card before the credit duration ends. Typically, debt consolidation programs are debt amends programs. They can consolidate most types of unsecured debts from vital credit cards to personal and student loans. Typically the interest on a debt consolidation loan is we estimate 17-23%. That's a large amount of interest that may essentially be more than you are now paying on your debt.

Bad credit debt consolidation is beneficial if you want to reduce your debt burden. It is an effective technique for mending your credit scores. Bad credit and extreme debt does not make you a hideous person. With a little help from us, you will be able to get your credit and finance management in top figure again.

Credit Card Debt Consolidation services can make it happen, and there’s no doubt about it. There’s no reason to delay and zero to lose. Credit card debt consolidation can also help you avoid creditor nuisance , one of the main elements that trigger stress prompted health problems. Credit card debt consolidation usually makes the total balance more docile generally if a lower interest rate is provided. But, if there are mixed other accounts concerned that were not part of the consolidating effort, it may take some time to get them all marked down to a docile level.

Typically, when a patron buys a product with his card or uses his card as an alternative for hard cash, he is offering an interest free credit period. The patron has to make a payment for the credit used on the card before the credit duration ends. Typically, debt consolidation programs are debt amends programs. They can consolidate most types of unsecured debts from vital credit cards to personal and student loans. Typically the interest on a debt consolidation loan is we estimate 17-23%. That's a large amount of interest that may essentially be more than you are now paying on your debt.

Bad credit debt consolidation is beneficial if you want to reduce your debt burden. It is an effective technique for mending your credit scores. Bad credit and extreme debt does not make you a hideous person. With a little help from us, you will be able to get your credit and finance management in top figure again.

After I carefully unchecked the songs I didn’t want uploaded to my iPhone, the computer did it anyway and I ended up with every song in my library on my cell phone. For some unparallel reason I decided to listen to all of them in alphabetical order, an undertaking that will probably take months to complete on my afternoon metro rides. (In the morning I read the paper. Old-timey!)

With apologies to Paul Ford, here are five-word reviews of all the songs I’ve listened to so far. (He does six-word reviews so it’s like taking it up a notch, yanno? No?) You will sense an immediate pattern in my listening habits. I’ll tell you now it’s a direct result of complacency.

Accidents Will Happen – Elvis Costello Classic album opener zings along.

Accidents Will Happen (live) – Elvis Costello Skipped, albeit reluctantly. Nieve shines.

Acrobat – U2 Bono as wronged emo kid.

Adam Raised A Cain – Bruce Springsteen Bruce as wronged emo kid.

Again Today/Hiding My Heart – Brandi Carlile Meditative, longish album closer; skipped.

Ain’t Got You – Bruce Springsteen Killer harmonica jumps with alacrity.

Ain’t No Other Man – Christina Aguilera Brass sections made spiffy again.

Alfie – Lily Allen Witless brother; I can relate.

Allison (live) – Elvis Costello Sneers softly as his best.

All Because of You – U2 Forgettable Christian rock AOR track.

All I Want For Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey Listened twice with shameless glee.

All That Heaven Will Allow – Bruce Springsteen Good love not yet bad.

Allentown – Billy Joel Audition for poor man’s Mellencamp.

Always On My Mind – Willie Nelson Levi’s commercial did this right.

American Gangster Time – Elvis Costello Catchy late-era track; unfleshed theme.

Americans Without Tears – Elvis Costello Proves 6/8 time is underused.

The Angel – Bruce Springsteen Embarrassing, pained Dylan imitation. Skipped.

Another Time, Another Place – U2 Edge carries this Boy sleeper.

Anthem – Leonard Cohen Choirs can exist in pop.

Artificial Sweetener – No Doubt She’s not sincere with feelings.

As Long As I (Can Be With You) – Patti Scialfa She is definitely quite sincere.

Ashes to Ashes – David Bowie Junkies awaken hungover in ’80s.

Atlantic City – Bruce Springsteen Hardscrabble lives twist in wind.

Atlantic City (live 6/13/06) – Bruce Springsteen I was there, must reminisce.

Baby Don’t –Patti Scialfa Wedding band is no barrier.

Baby Watch Your Back – Nellie McKay Disco and stalking go together.

Babyface – U2 Adam Clayton dated Naomi Campbell.

Back In Your Arms – Bruce Springsteen He’s made a huge mistake.

Bad – U2 Sparkling slow-burner alights in concert.

Bad Influence – Pink Corruption is fun and unavoidable.

Badlands – Bruce Springsteen Keening guitar melody still wins.

Bathwater – No Doubt Good girls want bad boys.

Be True – Bruce Springsteen Movies disappoint less than love.

Beat It – Michael Jackson Cartoon violence plus Van Halen.

So there you go, a little window into my commute. As I was saying to Tatiana earlier today, NaBloPoMo should be careful what it wishes for.

In a digital world, where celebrities’ images and recordings are easily manipulated, distorted, and distributed, it is refreshing to see musical group No Doubt take control of its representations.

No Doubt filed a lawsuit against Activision, the publishers of the popular Band Hero video game, Wednesday, November 4. No Doubt seeks an injunction and damages for fraudulent inducement and breach of contract.

In a statement, the band members claimed that it “agreed to place avatars containing their name and likeness performing three No Doubt songs in the upcoming Band Hero.” The band was “mortified” to discover that the avatars could be made to perform over 60 additional songs by other musicians, in what has been called “a virtual karaoke circus act.”

The band members were particularly outraged that their avatars could be made to sing gender-inappropriate songs. For example, the game allows “an unauthorized performance by the Stefani avatar in a male voice boasting about having sex with prostitutes” (the Rolling Stones’ “Honky Tonk Woman”). Activision would have been wise to remember that Stefani is “just a girl in the world.”

Upon discovering the capabilities of its Band Hero avatars, No Doubt approached Activision executives about its concerns. The band alleges in the complaint that the company refused to “correct its actions” because it would be “too expensive” and would “jeopardize their revenue.”

Activision vaguely maintains that the avatars are within its contractual rights. In a statement released last week, it claims:

Activision has a written agreement to use No Doubt in Band Hero–an agreement signed by No Doubt after extensive negotiations with its representatives, who collectively have decades of experience in the entertainment industry. Pursuant to that agreement, Activision worked with No Doubt and the band’s management in developing Band Hero. As a result, Activision believes it is within its legal rights with respect to the use and portrayal of the band members in the game.

Activision further contends that it is exploring its own legal options with respect to No Doubt’s obligation under that contract.

This suit is not the first time the music community has criticized the Band Hero avatars. Fans and musicians alike were outraged by the capabilities of Kurt Cobain’s Guitar Hero avatar. Fellow Nirvana bandmates Krist Novoselic and Dave Grohl publicly stated:

[They were] dismayed and very disappointed in the way a facsimile of Kurt is used in the Guitar Hero game. . . . It’s hard to watch an image of Kurt pantomiming other artists’ music alongside cartoon characters. Kurt Cobain wrote songs that hold a lot of meaning to people all over the world. We feel he deserves better.

Fans were particularly offended that Cobain’s avatar could perform Bon Jovi’s “You Give Love a Bad Name,” an 80s rock anthem that does not exactly jive with Cobain’s iconic grunge rock persona. Activision maintains that the deceased Cobain’s wife, Courtney Love, approved the avatar, which is perhaps why no lawsuit was filed on Cobain’s behalf.

– Anne Goodwyn

Image Source

So, both Courtney Love and No Doubt aren’t too pleased with Activision.

It’s not really that much of a suprise, Kurt Cobain especially as seeing him playing some songs isn’t the most respectful thing in the world. Although I can see the fun side in this it kinda feels like I shouldn’t.

At last, here’s the droid we were all looking for: This is the frame in which you can clearly see R2-D2 in Star Trek.

This time there is absolutely no doubt about it: It’s confirmed by the sequence supervisor at ILM. Zoom in to see.

Source:
http://gizmodo.com/5405276/r2 d2-finally-discovered-in-star-trek

Enquanto uns perdem tempo noticiando que Tico Santa Cruz (Detonautas) tá implorando para disse que gostaria de assumir os vocais nos Raimundos e ganhar um troco extra fazer uma turnê com eles, chiveta mostra rock — rock de verdade, sabe, nada que o Rick Bonadio produziria ou tocaria um pianinho vagabundo.

Esse ano nasceu uma banda que mesmo que dure pouco tempo já entrou pra história. Seu nome, Them Crooked Vultures, seus membros?

No baixo/teclado/piano/voz Sir John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin), na bateria/voz Dave Grohl (Scream, Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Probot etc) e na guitarra/voz Josh Homme (Kyuss, Queens of the Stone Age, Eagles of Death Metal).

Ao vivo o Them Crooked Vultures ganha ainda o multi-instrumentista Alain Johannes (que entre tocar e produzir já trabalhou com Chris Cornell, No Doubt, Mark Lanegan, Jack Irons, Puscifer, Spinnerette etc).

Amanhã, dia 17 de novembro, o primeiro e autointitulado disco sairá nos EUA e Canadá, e seu single, New Fang, a gente confere abaixo…

É, como é possível perceber, é apenas hard rock, mas gostamos!

Can’t we all just get along?

Hell no.

Not when rock band No Doubts lead singer, Gwen Stefani’s avatar sounds like a man, and is singing about hookers.

 According to an article published by the LOS ANGELES (Reuters), rock band No Doubt is suing “Band Hero” video game publisher Activision Blizzard Inc, for turning their likeness into a “virtual karaoke act.”

Not a karaoke enthusiast, but I am a fan of No Doubt.

I remember their performance at the 1997 Grammy Awards and their nomination for best new artist, after years of struggling to make it as a professional rock band, so it is understandable why the group is outraged.

No Doubt

No Doubt granted permission to Band Hero to replicate them in the game performing their own songs, but not the songs of other musical groups, hence the lawsuit.

This isn’t another case of a dormant music group trying to make a quick buck, since they have been actively touring for the past year after their four year hiatus, beginning in 2004 and ending in 2008.

According to the lawsuit filed by the group against Activision, this is a case of “fraudulent inducement and breach of contract.”

No Doubt wanted to have a recall on existing copies, since Band Hero was released in the US for Xbox 360’s on November 3, 2009.

Games Published by Activision Blizzard Inc

In defense of the uses of the group’s avatars, Activision Blizzard Inc released this statement, “Activision believes it is within its legal rights with respect to the use and portrayal of the band members in the game and that this lawsuit is without merit.”

If having Gwen Stefani sing “Honky Tonk Women,” by the Rolling Stones instead of “Spiderwebs” is  a respectful use of the groups likeness , then having Mary J Blige cover Chaka Khan’s “ Sweet Thing” must be the upmost sign of respect.

No doubt

No Doubt ha denunciado a Activisión por la imagen que hacen del grupo en la edición del videojuego Band Hero.

No Doubt tenían un contrato con Activisión que permitía utilizar a la banda en el juego, por eso no hay problema, pero al parecer la compañía ha ido más allá del contrato permitiendo a los jugadores usar avatares de la banda tocando canciones de otros grupos de rock.

Algo parecido a lo que ocurrió con la imagen de  Kurt Cobain en el Guitar Hero 5 donde permitían que la estrella de Seattle cantara canciones de otros grupos (claro, en este caso denunció Courtney Love). Entonces se escucharon voces que criticaban a la cantante de no haberse leído la letra pequeña del contrato. Ahora ya van dos.

El acuerdo de No Doubt con la empresa consistía en que la banda aparecería tocando tres de sus canciones, pero la compañía permite que la imagen del grupo sea usada por los jugadores en el resto de temas del juego (algo que, por cierto, ocurre tanto en Band Hero como en Guitar Hero, tú puedes seleccionar al avatar que quieras, seguramente todos los usuarios de estos juegos lo sepáis de sobra).

Según la demanda, lo que no les ha sentado bien ha sido ver a Gwen Stefani (voz) interpretando las letras insinuantes de “Honky Tonk Women” (Rolling Stones), así como la versión virtual de “Just a girl” de Tony Kanal. No es de extrañar que no les haga gracia verla cantando con voz de hombre sobre tener sexo con prostitutas.

Activision, por su parte, ha lanzado un comunicado donde expone su versión de los hechos. Cree que está dentro de sus derechos legales con respecto al uso y representación de los miembros de la banda en el juego y que la demanda carece de fundamento.

Es más, considera que “algunos de los más populares e icónicos artistas han aparecido en Guitar Hero como personajes seleccionables y estamos orgullosos de contar con No Doubt entre ellos. Activision escribió un acuerdo para usar a No Doubt en Band Hero, un acuerdo firmado por la banda después de extensas negociaciones con sus representantes”.

Fox & Friends Weekend weatherwoman Domenica Davis seemed to take Gwen Stefani’s  anthem a little too literally today. With F&FW meteorologist Rick Reichmuth out celebrating this weekend with his 1991-year-abroad buds, the delightful damsel Domenica subbed for him. Looking demure in her pink frilly dress without decolletage and avec long short sleeves, she seemed to be channelling Gwen Stefani, stating, “I’m just a girl I’d rather not be ’cause they won’t let me drive.”

And Bill Shine probably will not until Domenica looks and acts like she is more than ready to roar. Even though she usually puts out a vivacious, voluptuous vibe, the Italian beauty kept it largely in check today. Even her usual playful rejoinders to co-anchors Clayton Morris and flirtations with Dave Briggs were muted. Maybe, she was mulling over No Doubt’s lyrics in the final verse: I.e., “I’m just a girl, what’s my destiny? What I’ve succumbed to is making me numb.”

No worries, Double D. Perk up and let your inner caliente out. Your future should be bright!

The latest album, Panty Raid, is a cover album featuring some of the best “girl” songs out there. Should be a great one!

You can buy an advance copy here for just $10 plus shipping.

Here’s their first video from the album: “Girlfriend” by Avril Lavigne

Here’s the list of songs on the album:

01. Survivor (Destiny’s Child)
02. Girls Just Want to Have Fun (Cyndi Lauper)
03. Underneath It All (No Doubt)
04. Trouble (Shampoo)
05. London Bridge (Fergie)
06. Beautiful (Christina Aguilera)
07. Girlfriend (Avril Lavigne)
08. Sweet Escape (Gwen Stefani)
09. (Introduction)
10. Jenny From The Block (Jennifer Lopez)
11. Rehab (Amy Winehouse)
12. Spice Up Your Life (Spice Girls)
13. Introduction
14. Oops!… I Did It Again (Britney Spears)
15. Get The Party Started (P!NK)
16. Mickey (Toni Basil)

The ’90s spawned the terms Generation X and Pepsi Generation. The revolutionary, plugged-in expanse between 1990 and 1999 symbolized the crystallization of youth culture—when technology, creativity and limitless possibility reached an amalgamated zenith. It was when rap and MTV became mainstream, Kurt and Big lived and died, and everything became inextricably linked with corporatism.

This list of definitive ’90s songs is by no means actually definitive (click for part one). Instead, we wanted to take a moment to revel in our youth and explore the pop culture moments that make up our collective psyche. Regardless of whether you get with, smile at, or treat these moments with familiar scorn, chances are they fit seamlessly into your retrospective scope like Pizza Hut and slap bracelets. And don’t forget to share your favourites with us in the comments.

1996: Oasis – Don’t Look Back in Anger

Yes, “Wonderwall” is catchy. But when What’s the Story Morning Glory dropped, a seminal album itself, “Don’t Look Back in Anger” was the song that cemented Oasis as a timeless band. Maybe it’s the inherent Beatles influence, with the tambourine, piano intro or Ringo-esque syncopation of drummer Alan White. Maybe it’s the guitar riff, which to this day is emulated by tweens in video games. Or maybe it’s just because despite all their asshole antics, perhaps in spite of themselves, Oasis crafted one of the greatest melodies of the past 50 years. It’s too bad they knew it, too.—Simon

1996: Weezer – Across the Sea

Weezer invented emo. Like, the entire genre of music and now subculture of youth identification? Weezer. For every jaded fan (and there are a lot of us out there), “Across the Sea” marks a highpoint in musical signposts. A perfect mix of melancholy, distortion laden grunge, power-pop melodies and crunchy Fender riffs held together with quaintly sad sack lyrics such as, “As if I could live on words and dreams and a million screams, oh, how I need a hand in mine to feel.” And remember, this was before emo was cool; for better or for worse.—Simon

1996: Fiona Apple – Criminal

The cloying Lilith Fair movement, awesome identity politics aside, did at least one cool thing – it segued into Fiona Apple. I write a lot about celebrity crushes because the seduction apparatus of film and pop music fascinates the hell out of me — but yo, Apple was (is) the shit. She disgusted me but I wanted her, I felt bad for her but she was kind of a hero, and she set the behind-doors soundtrack for years of battling d’evils to come. Much of that is encapsulated by Mark Romanek’s haunting video, which sadly now just looks like marketing for American Apparel.—Jef

1997: No Doubt - Sunday Morning

In grade six I idolized Gwen Stefani. Before becoming a pop-song-making, baby-having, overpriced-clothing-line hawking icon, she single-handedly influenced my love of leopard print with her outfit in this video. “Don’t Speak” might be considered No Doubt’s breakthrough hit (even though Tragic Kingdom was the band’s third studio album), but this was the song I lip-synched extra hard to. It’s a microcosm of what the band themselves represented at the time: the transitional antidote to a market exhausted by poor Seattle-grunge knockoffs and anticipating an influx of over stylized pop stars and rappers. I love that you can see esthetic continuity from this video to Gwen’s current stuff (thanks to director Sophie Muller). This song and my desperate sixth-grade love of this band is why I will forever be a Hollaback Girl.—Anupa

1997: Infinite - Gotta Get Mine

Canadian hip-hop in the late nineties had a distinct sound, less jiggy than it’s flashy American counterpart and ridiculously more rugged. This song literally makes me think of a dude spitting his guts out while wearing a parka in the middle of a wintry, Toronto night. Over supremely delicate production, alongside a pre-Diva-ized Divine Brown (when she rocked a headwrap and went by Divine Earth Essence) Infinite spits meticulous, slang-laden raps like “I’ve got you hooked like a custy lookin’ for cookie” and single-handedly defines a city and a time. One of my favourite hip-hop songs of all time, period.—Anupa

1998: Puff Daddy (and the Family) – All About the Benjamins

Featuring the opening verse most likely to be memorized by my classmates this side of “Triumph”, Puff’s ragged posse cut was “about living rich and the importance of having money,” says Wikipedia. Gully. Puff was rap’s knight in shiny-suit Armani, sure, but this track knocked regardless of my burgeoning backpack inclinations. In the larger sphere, it spawned an annoying mainstream catchphrase, a Weird Al parody, and a rap-rock zeitgeist remix that capped off grunge survivor Dave Grohl’s decade-definitive trajectory. If you didn’t fuck with this track, you’re a liar, and I want my VHS tapes back.—Jef

10.  Britney Spears – Look. Everyone (but the Australians) know Brit’s not singing when she’s onstage but her shows are highly entertaining. It’s like going to a Vegas show that happens to feature Britney Spears.

9.  Blink 182 – Although they’re not the best singers, Mark & Tom’s bathroom related banter is freakin’ hilarious. Plus, Travis Barker’s drumming ain’t bad either.

8.  Weezer – Saying you didn’t have fun at a Weezer show is like saying you don’t like puppies.

7.  U2 – They easily have the best stage show in rock.

6. Paramore – Hayley Williams and crew bring so much energy to the stage. Hayley is the ultimate performer with the voice of an angel.  Plus, what other bassist (Jeremy Davis) do you know that does back flips off the guitarist (Josh Farro)?

5.  Jay Z/Kanye West/Eminem – Most rappers suck live. These guys don’t.

4.  No Doubt – Gwen Stefani has got to be one of the greatest performers of all time and her abs are amazing. The guys do such a great job that you’ll keep you dancing through out their whole performance.

3.  The White Stripes – You wouldn’t believe how much one man (Jack White) can rock and command the stage until you see him live.  And it doesn’t hurt that Meg White has nice big boobs!

2.  Muse – Matt Bellamy has some of the craziest guitars I’ve ever seen. One of them has a laser that shoots out of it.  In addition, they’re all musical geniuses!

1.  Rage Against the Machine – I shouldn’t even have to tell you why. If Tom Morello’s face melting guitar playing isn’t enough, then Zack De La Rocha’s bouncing afro should do it for ya.