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By Just Russ Info: Sizzlin' Spins JUNE 2005 Discover Great Music! 1. Filthy / Gorgeous by Scissor Sisters from the album Scissor Sisters 2. Lonely No More (Jason Nevins Rock Da Club Mix) by Rob Thomas from the album "...Something More" Special Edition 3. Music Is The Victim by Scissor Sisters from the album Scissor Sisters 4. Tired of Being Sorry by Ringside from the album Ringside 5. Hollaback Girl by Gwen Stefani from the album Love Angel Music Baby 6. Somewhere Only We Know by Keane from the album Hopes and Fears 7. Be Yourself by Audioslave from the album Out of Exile 8. Speed of Sound by Coldplay from the album X & Y 9. Boulevard of Broken Dreams by Green Day from the album American Idiot 10. Collide by Howie Day from the album All The World Stop Now (Special Edition) 11. Spoiled by Joss Stone from the album Mind Body & Soul 12. Pickin' Wildflowers by Keith Anderson from the album Three Chords and American Rock & Roll 13. Struggle by Ringside from the album Ringside 14. We Belong Together by Mariah Carey from the album The Emancipation of Mimi 15. Holdin' You by Gretchen Wilson from the album Here For The Party 16. You and Me by Lifehouse from the album Lifehouse 17. Don't Phunk With My Heart by The Black Eyed Peas from the album Monkey Business 18. Come Back Down by Lifehouse from the album Lifehouse 19. It's All Good by Fantasia from the album Free Yourself 20. Don't Say You Love Me by Erasure from the album Nightbird 21. Fourth of July by Shooter Jennings featuring George Jones from the album Put The O Back In Country 22. My Give A Damn's Busted by Jo Dee Messina from the album Delicious Surprise 23. Get Your Shine On by Jesse McCartney from the album Beautiful Soul 24. What Happens Tomorrow by Duran Duran from the album Astronaut 25. The Hand That Feeds by Nine Inch Nails from the album With Teeth ------------------------------------------------- Sizzlin' Spins MAY 2005 Discover Great Music! 1. Filthy / Gorgeous by Scissor Sisters from the album Scissor Sisters 2. Somewhere Only We Know by Keane from the album Hopes and Fears 3. Lonely No More (Jason Nevins Rock Da Club Mix) by Rob Thomas from the album "...Something More" Special Edition 4. Spoiled by Joss Stone from the album Mind Body & Soul 5. Boulevard of Broken Dreams by Green Day from the album American Idiot 6. Collide by Howie Day from the album Stop All The World Now (Special Edition) 7. If You Don't Know Me By Now by Aubrey from the CD Maxi-Single Release 8. Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own by U2 from the album How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb 9. Get Your Shine On by Jesse McCartney from the album Beautiful Soul 10. Fourth of July by Shooter Jennings featuring George Jones from the album Put The O Back In Country 11. Hollaback Girl by Gwen Stefani from the album Love Angel Music Baby 12. Don't Say You Love Me by Erasure from the album Nightbird 13. Struggle by Ringside from the album Ringside 14. We Belong Together by Mariah Carey from the album The Emancipation of Mimi 15. What Happens Tomorrow by Duran Duran from the album Astronaut 16. You and Me by Lifehouse from the album Lifehouse 17. I May Hate Myself In the Morning by Lee Ann Womack from the album There's More Where That Came From 18. Come Back Down by Lifehouse from the album Lifehouse 19. Holdin' You by Gretchen Wilson from the album Here For The Party 20. Tired of Being Sorry by Ringside from the album Ringside 21. It's All Good by Fantasia from the album Free Yourself 22. Since U Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson from the album Breakaway 23. The Wonder of It All by Kristine W from the album Fly Again 24. True by Ryan Cabrera from the album Take It All Away 25. If I Aint' Got You by Alicia Keys from the album The Diary of Alicia Keys ------------------------------------------------- Sizzlin' Spins APRIL 2005 Discover Great Music! 1. Filthy / Gorgeous by Scissor Sisters from the album Scissor Sisters 2. Somewhere Only We Know by Keane from the album Hopes and Fears 3. Boulevard of Broken Dreams by Green Day from the album American Idiot 4. Collide by Howie Day from the album Stop All The World Now (Special Edition) 5. Downhill Racer by Everything But The Girl from the album Adapt or Die: 10 Years of Remixes 6. Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own by U2 from the album How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb 7. I May Hate Myself In The Morning by Lee Ann Womack from the album There's More Where That Came From 8. Fourth of July by Shooter Jennings featuring George Jones from the album Put The O Back In Country 9. It's All Good by Fantasia from the album Free Yourself 10. The Wonder of It All by Kristine W from the album Fly Again 11. Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood by Nina Simone from the album Nina Simone For Lovers (2005) 12. We Will Become Silhouettes by The Postal Service from the album Give Up 13. What Happens Tomorrow by Duran Duran Astronaut 14. True by Ryan Cabrera from the album Take It All Away 15. If You Don't Know Me By Now by Aubrey from the CD Maxi-Single Release ------------------------------------------------- Sizzlin' Spins MARCH 2005 Discover Great Music! 1. Filthy / Gorgeous by Scissor Sisters from the album Scissor Sisters 2. Collide by Howie Day from the album Stop All The World Now (Special Edition) 3. Boulevard Of Broken Dreams by Green Day from the album American Idiot 4. I May Hate Myself In The Morning by Lee Ann Womack from the album There's More Where That Came From 5. Left Outside Alone (Jason Nevins Mix Show) by Anastacia available on CD Single 6. Mother & Father (Peter's Re-Invention Remix) by Madonna from the album Peter Rauhofer Live @ Roxy 4 7. I Wanna Thank You by Mavis Staples from the album Have A Little Faith 8. Just Be by Tiesto featuring Kirsty Hawkshaw from the album Just Be 9. Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood by Nina Simone from the album Nina Simone For Lovers (2005) 10. Love's Divine (Acoustic Version) by Seal from the Limited Edition Album Best / 1991 - 2004 11. It's All Good (Scumfrog Mix Show) by Fantasia available on CD Single (Original Version available on the album Free Yourself) 12. We Will Become Silhouettes by The Postal Service from the album Give Up 13. If I Ain't Got You by Alicia Keys from the album The Diary Of Alicia Keys 14. Red Light by Jonny Lang from the album Long Time Coming 15. Since U Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson from the album Breakaway ------------------------------------------------- Sizzlin' Spins FEBRUARY 2005 Discover Great Music! 1. I May Hate Myself In The Morning by Lee Ann Womack from the album There's More Where That Came From 2. Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own by U2 from the album How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb 3. I Wanna Thank You by Mavis Staples from the album Have A Little Faith 4. Michael by Franz Ferdinand from the album Franz Ferdinand 5. Portland Oregon by Loretta Lynn with Jack White from the album Van Lear Rose 6. Beautiful Dreamer by Raul Malo from the album Beautiful Dreamer: The Songs of Stephen Foster 7. Galvanize by The Chemical Brothers from the album Push The Button 8. Breathe by Erasure from the album Nightbird 9. Boulevard Of Broken Dreams by Green Day from the album American Idiot 10. I Believe In You by Kylie Minogue from the album Ultimate Kylie Minogue 11. Used To Love U by John Legend from the album Get Lifted 12. Open Arms by Tina Turner from the album All The Best 13. I'll Be Good To You by Vanessa Williams with James D-Train Williams from the album Everlasting Love 14. It's Like That by Mariah Carey from the forthcoming album The Emancipation Of Mimi (Release Date April 12) 15. Drugs Or Jesus by Tim McGraw from the album Live Like You Were Dying ------------------------------------------------- The "Best of 2004" lists are now posted! Enjoy! ------------------------------------------------- Best of 2004 – The Music Scene By Just Russ #1203 01/13/05 I was confident that the past year would be cause for rejoicing despite the dismal warnings of critics. With the impending decline of sales, a lack of any blockbuster title that would also be heralded as a triumph, and a truly poor year for touring, 2004 did look like a chapter of despair for the industry. The good news is that sales actually rebounded in the final weeks of a soft year, a handful of titles did win the hearts of fans and critics alike, and while the industry certainly took a hit on the tour circuit, country music proved to be a positive force and veteran artists like Madonna and Prince proved they can still pack in an audience. I’d like to point out several highlights from the previous 12 months and, of course, take time to list my favorites. Many titles on my year-end recap were influential works. Many artists added a successful entry onto their discography. Many popular names like Britney, Justin, and all the pop teen bands were replaced by the likes of Hoobastank, Velvet Revolver, and Maroon5. Veterans held their own and essentially made a comeback. Bob Dylan stayed in the spotlight and made the book bestseller list, Simon & Garfunkel and Fleetwood Mac made successful concert outings, and Jimmy Buffett enjoyed the best year of his long career. Several artists enjoyed the spotlight and proved that they still got what it takes to win new fans. Patti LaBelle continued to sing her heart out while Teena Marie muscled her way back with a solid hit. Loretta Lynn teamed with Jack White of White Stripes fame and released what critics - and I - are calling the best album of her illustrious career. U2, Prince, Eminem, and Alicia Keys continued to notch successful hits but it is Usher that wins the sales race for the year. “Yeah!,” he proved he was the poster boy of the year by selling millions of records and even took time to re-release his Confessions disc with bonus material. A limited edition single with unreleased tracks also met with great success. A handful of new names left a mark, too. Franz Ferdinand, Scissor Sisters, Gretchen Wilson, and a hot little group from Las Vegas called The Killers all made some noise. Joss Stone proved she has what it takes to make it for the long haul, Kanye West rewrote the rules for rap music, and Big & Rich took country music into another universe altogether. Rock music invaded the dance charts, while rhythm & blues continued to influence everything. Everything that was gay remained gay, with Melissa Etheridge keeping a high profile during the year, Elton John and Rufus Wainwright both releasing critically-acclaimed titles, and independent acts like Girlyman, the Butchies, and Josh Zuckerman all winning the hearts of queer fans around the world. It was a tough year for goodbyes. With the passing of greats like Ray Charles, Johnny Ramone, Rick James, Elliott Smith, and composer Elmer Bernstein, the music somehow just won’t be the same. Other notable names on the list of those who departed are singer Laura Branigan, songwriter and lyricist Fred Ebb, Weather Girl Izora Armstead, country queen Skeeter Davis, and composer Jerry Goldsmith among several others. The highlight of the year was the release of Ray Charles’ final work Genius Loves Company. That title has captivated the attention of Grammy voters, the bestseller list, and a whole new audience. Additional kudos should be offered to Jamie Foxx for a vivid portrayal of the man in the motion picture Ray. The abbreviated two lists that follow highlight what I deem the best of the best for 2004. I’ve combined my detailed breakdown to comprise an album and song list without any borders, no matter what genre or style of music. Herein then are my favorites and what I think were most influential. No worries, my dear reader, you can find a much more specific and annotated recap on this webpage at www.sdpride.com/byjustruss. Before I count ‘em down, however, I do want to mention just a few of the other artists that made an impact with me this past year. You’ll need to check out my webpage – or write me – to see exactly how each fared. I also make note of a few hot guys to emerge during the year. Divas like Angie Stone and Jill Scott got my vote, as did jazz newcomer Jamie Cullum. Gwen Stefani went solo and got noticed, while the Tex-Mex sound of Los Lonely Boys kept me in “Heaven.” Nelly, Snoop Dogg, and The Roots kept rap alive and I gave a nod to the blues artistry of Etta James. Martha Wash, Basement Jaxx, Anastacia, and George Michael danced their way onto the list as did Enrique Iglesias and Duran Duran. Country crooners Mark Chesnutt, Brad Paisley, and Joe Nichols are but three that join an interesting group on my country music recap this year. Now on with the countdown: Best of Songs 10 – “Live Like You Were Dying” by Tim McGraw A strong, wonderful, and sentimental song from one of country music’s leading men. 9 – “Somebody Told Me” by The Killers An infectious, refreshing sound captivates this gender-bending track. 8 – “American Idiot” by Green Day Billie Joe Armstrong and the boys present a patriotic rock anthem that easily described the year. 7 – “Mass Destruction” by Faithless Dance music was never this serious when I was growing up. Faithless offer a strong political statement about the state of the world complete with a serious beat. 6 – “The Reason” by Hoobastank This sweeping rock ballad captivated the attention of everybody and was quite simply just a great song with great vocals by Douglas Robb. 5 – “Save A Horse (Ride A Cowboy)” by Big & Rich This duo rewrote the rules on serving up a catchy country song and took the charts by storm. The title is quite catchy, indeed, as well. 4 – “Take Your Mama” by Scissor Sisters Flamboyance is first class with this cutting edge group and this song recalls something that Elton John could have performed in his early days and is further evidence that rock music influenced the dance scene in 2004. 3 – “Redneck Woman” by Gretchen Wilson She essentially put country back on the map in 2004 and her honest no holding back approach to songwriting was top notch. 2 – “Heaven” by Los Lonely Boys This group was able to take the Tex-Mex sound and cross borders with a simply great track. The pop, rock, country, and adult contemporary formats all embraced the warmth and solid performance of this trio. 1 – “Take Me Out” by Franz Ferdinand Critically-acclaimed Scottish rockers hit the scene with an alt-rock hit that was just too much fun! Best of Albums 10 – You Are The Quarry by Morrissey Insightful Morrissey returned with a politically charged and mournful collection of songs – something he does best. 9 – From A Basement On The Hill by Elliott Smith The final release from this well-regarded singer/songwriter provided a haunting memory and captivating album. 8 – The Nashville Acoustic Sessions by Raul Malo, Pat Flynn, Rob Ickes, and Dave Pomeroy Good old-fashioned music performed by good old-fashioned musicians. Complete with mandolin, harmonica, and enchanting vocals by The Mavericks frontman Malo. 7 – Musicology by Prince I wouldn’t call this a comeback as much as a return to the excellence that the Purple One is capable of creating. 6 – How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb by U2 Not one to rest on their laurels, U2 returned with another outstanding album. The rock/dance hit “Vertigo” was just a preview. 5 – Peachtree Road by Elton John This album is another example of a veteran artist who quite simply went back to making great music. Fine songwriting notwithstanding, John gives us one of his best performances on this disc. 4 – Have A Little Faith by Mavis Staples The gospel truth is that Ms. Staples has never sounded better and this collection of inspirational and timely tracks should be heard by everyone. 3 – Here For The Party by Gretchen Wilson Newcomer Wilson served up a fine batch of honest, passionate country songs and had the chops and personality to deliver the message to the people. 2 – Genius Loves Company by Ray Charles Duet albums can be a mixed blessing, but Charles and company offered one of the finest collections heard in a long time and it keeps getting better with each listen. 1 – Van Lear Rose by Loretta Lynn Thinking outside the box can yield great results, and the pairing of Jack White and this Coal Miner’s Daughter was magic. While remaining pure country, Loretta sounded brand new and introduced herself to an all new audience. She puts her signature on every track and puts to rest any debate about being one of the genre’s most revered performers. # # # ************************************************* Best of 2004 – By Just Russ The 5 That Almost Made It 5 – Hummin’ To Myself by Linda Ronstadt 4 – Love. Angel. Music. Baby. by Gwen Stefani 3 – Feels Like Home by Norah Jones 2 – R & G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece by Snoop Dogg 1 – Antics by Interpol Top Albums 15 – N’Awlinz Dis Dat Or D’Udda by Dr John 14 – Mind Body & Soul by Joss Stone 13 – Carencro by Marc Broussard 12 – Blues To The Bone by Etta James 11 – The Tipping Point by The Roots 10 – Beautifully Human by Jill Scott 9 – Twentysomething by Jamie Cullum 8 – Stone Love by Angie Stone 7 – You Are The Quarry by Morrissey 6 – From A Basement On The Hill by Elliott Smith 5 – Musicology by Prince 4 – How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb by U2 3 – Peachtree Road by Elton John 2 – Have A Little Faith by Mavis Staples 1 – Genius Loves Company by Ray Charles Top Songs 15 – Slow Jamz by Kanye West featuring Twista and Jamie Foxx 14 – Beautiful Life by Charlotte Martin 13 – Sugar by Julia Fordham 12 – New Day by Patti LaBelle {and} Gotta Go Solo by Patti LaBelle with Ronald Isley 11 – Jet Lag by Joss Stone 10 – Two Shots of Happy, One Shot of Sad by Nancy Sinatra 9 – Over and Over by Nelly featuring Tim McGraw 8 – One Thing by Finger Eleven 7 – I Got You by Teena Marie featuring Rick James 6 – Somebody Told Me by The Killers 5 – American Idiot by Green Day 4 – The Reason by Hoobastank 3 – Take Your Mama by Scissor Sisters 2 – Heaven by Los Lonely Boys 1 – Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand ************************************************* Best of Country Music 2004 Top Albums 15 – Outlaws and Angels by Willie Nelson and Friends 14 – Blake Shelton’s Bar & Grill by Blake Shelton 13 – The Unbroken Circle: The Musical Heritage of the Carter Family by Various Artists 12 – What I Do by Alan Jackson 11 – Nothing But The Truth by Eve Selis 10 – One Moment More by Mindy Smith 9 – Savin’ The Honky Tonk by Mark Chesnutt 8 – It Always Will Be by Willie Nelson 7 – The Notorious Cherry Bombs by The Notorious Cherry Bombs 6 – Twice The Speed of Life by Sugarland 5 – Tambourine by Tift Merritt 4 – Live Like You Were Dying by Tim McGraw 3 – The Nashville Acoustic Sessions by Raul Malo / Pat Flynn / Rob Ickes / Dave Pomeroy 2 – Here For The Party by Gretchen Wilson 1 – Van Lear Rose by Loretta Lynn Top Songs 15 – In A Real Love by Phil Vassar 14 – How Do You Get That Lonely by Blaine Larsen 13 – I Walk The Line by Los Lonely Boys 12 – One On The House by Allison Moorer 11 – Amen by Arthur Godfrey 10 – Break Down Here by Julie Roberts 9 – Farewell Party by Joe Nichols 8 – If You Ever Stop Loving Me by Montgomery Gentry 7 – Soldier For The Lonely by Jedd Hughes (with Patty Loveless) 6 – Party For Two by Shania Twain (with Billy Currington) 5 – Dixie Rose Deluxe’s by Trent Willmon 4 – Songs About Rain by Gary Allan 3 – Whiskey Lullaby by Brad Paisley (with Alison Krauss) 2 – Save A Horse (Ride A Cowboy) by Big & Rich 1 – Suds In The Bucket by Sara Evans ************************************************* Best of Dance Music 2004 15 – Free Me by Emma 14 – When A Love Grows Cold by Amber 13 – 100 Ways by JC Chasez 12 – Love Comes Quickly by Tiesto featuring BT 11 – What You Waiting For? by Gwen Stefani 10 – (Reach Up For The) Sunrise by Duran Duran 9 – Not In Love by Enrique Iglesias featuring Kelis 8 – Flawless (Go To The City) by George Michael 7 – Mass Destruction by Faithless 6 – Tilt Ya Head Back by Nelly featuring Christina Aguilera 5 – You Promised Me (Tu Es Foutu) by Ingrid 4 – Stupidisco by Junior Jack {and} Da Hype by Junior Jack featuring Robert Smith 3 – Good Luck by Basement Jaxx featuring Lisa Kekaula 2 – Left Outside Alone by Anastacia 1 – You Lift Me Up by Martha Wash ************************************************* Best of “The Cute Boys Club” 2004 10 – Crossfade by Crossfade Ed Sloan leads this quartet of rockers while hit single “Cold” gives the group chart credential. I still dream about Chad Kroeger of Nickelback, but Sloan’s youthful good looks can keep me company, too. 9 – The Tracks of Tyler Hilton by Tyler Hilton First off, no relation to another high-profile Hilton, this talented boy can write songs and play a fine acoustic guitar. His voice might be a little rough around the edges, but I bet he can charm just about anyone. His song “When It Comes” found some chart success. 8 – Your Love, My Home by Joshua Payne Payne enters Josh Groban territory with some fine crooning and is capable of writing a fine tune, too. His covers of Bread’s “If” and the Peter Cetera-penned “If You Leave Me Now” aside, keep an eye on this one. 7 – Van Hunt by Van Hunt Extremely soulful and sexy, think Lenny Kravitz, Hunt can burn up the airwaves with songs like “Seconds of Pleasure” and “Down Here In Hell (With You).” I find the whole package absolutely groovy. 6 – Two Shots by Matt Dusk While a young Harry Connick comes to mind, Dusk’s handsome good looks and fine voice should take him far. His take on the track “Two Shots of Happy, One Shot of Sad,” written by Bono and The Edge of U2, is gorgeous. Don’t miss the Hot Nugget Remix version. Hot nugget, indeed. 5 – I Don’t Want You Back by Eamon The pretty boy with a potty mouth, Eamon hit the charts with the controversial track “Fuck It (I Don’t Want You Back),” and sounded just so sweet doing so. No worries, this is one rap singer that I salute with “I’d Rather Fuck With You.” 4 – Give It All Away by Ben Jelen The pretty boy with the angelic voice, his gorgeous piano playing is simply a bonus. Title track found chart success, and I have no doubt we’ll be hearing more from this singer/songwriter. 3 – The Drifter by Waylon Payne I say “fuckin’ hot” in a early Brad Pitt sort of way, and he ain’t a bad songwriter either. Payne covers Shelby Lynne’s “Jesus On A Greyhound” among a batch of mostly self-written songs. “The Bottom” is a great, sorrowful tune, but don’t get the wrong idea. 2 – Take It All Away by Ryan Cabrera What’s hotter than a boy and his guitar? Cabrera’s got the skateboard look going on, complete with spiked hair and layered t-shirts. But songs like “On The Way Down” showcase his talent and accelerated him into the Top 40. 1 – Beautiful Soul by Jesse McCartney Think Justin Timberlake’s kid brother, and you’ll get it. McCartney doesn’t offer anything too deep, just fresh pop tunes like the title cut. “Without U” is a standout track, however, with a super sexy soulful beat. God Bless good looks! ************************************************* The Hot Guy List for 2004 You’ll find a fresh batch of new guys on the list this year. If you don’t know who they are, may I suggest you immediately do a Google Search and discover for yourself. Each of these celebrated guys has endearing sexy qualities that certainly get them noticed. Keep in mind that beauty is subject to opinion and we’ve all got our preferred tastes. 1 – Matt Long 2 – Colin Farrell (5) 3 – Gael Garcia Bernal (15) 4 – Ian Somerhalder 5 – Brad Kroenig 6 – Tom Welling (7) 7 – Matthew Fox 8 – Jude Law (8) 9 – Ivan Sergei 10 – Jesse Metcalfe 11 – Michael Pitt 12 – Drew Fuller 13 – Chad Michael Murray 14 – Bradley Cooper 15 – Mark Ruffalo 16 – Lance Smith 17 – Thomas Jane 18 – Kevin Federline 19 – Michael Phelps 20 – Bronson Arroyo ( # ) Indicates 2003 Rank ************************************************* Sound Check By Just Russ #1191 10/21/04 Update Newspaper 1 – “(Reach Up For The) Sunrise” – Duran Duran The lead single from the new album Astronaut is a refreshing dose of dance and pop. A classic Duran Duran sound permeates throughout this catchy anthem that is both full of energy and entirely catchy. 2 – “Somebody Told Me” – The Killers Las Vegas is probably one of the more obscure cities to be considered a music hotspot, however, the debut album Hot Fuss from this four-man band is causing quite a stir and putting their hometown on the map as a source for talent. The gender-bending tune “Somebody Told Me” is - to put it rather mildly - quite killer! Think of Blur’s “Boys & Girls” except with a bit more bite. 3 – “Jet Lag” – Joss Stone What can you say when a Brit under the delicate age of 20 recalls the fabulous Aretha Franklin? Stone’s sophomore album Mind Body & Soul features another round of soulful endeavors including this exceptional track. Just delicious! 4 – “I Don’t Want To Be (Stripped Acoustic Version)” – Gavin DeGraw Featured for television ads promoting the WB’s One Tree Hill not withstanding, Gavin’s brutally honest delivery both vocally and on the piano on the Stripped Acoustic version of this number is simply gorgeous. His album Chariot has been reissued with a bonus disc of material. 5 – “Sinner’s Prayer” – Ray Charles with B.B. King Ray Charles’ final album Genius Loves Company features 12 outstanding duets and the bonafide heartfelt performance in the pairing of the blues legend with the soul master on this particular track is nothing short of perfection. 6 – “Sugar” – Julia Fordham The sultry, British Fordham croons fabulously on the just released album That’s Life and this opening track sets the perfect tone. Instantly infectious and just so damn sweet! 7 – “Two Shots of Happy, One Shot of Sad” – Nancy Sinatra Nancy Sinatra struts back into the spotlight with a new self-titled album and this song is one of the highlights of her new critically-acclaimed effort. The bluesy track is written by Bono & The Edge of U2 fame, and suits the siren just fine. 8 – “Suds In The Bucket” – Sara Evans and “Nothing On But The Radio” – Gary Allan Unlike a contemporary Reba McEntire, country’s Evans gets quite twangy on this uptempo story song from her Restless album while Allan’s smooth delivery once again proves his mastery at capturing our hearts with his inviting charm. “Radio” is taken from his top notch album See If I Care. 9 – “Waterfalls” – TLC This tune is just as politically and emotionally poignant as it was when originally released ten years ago. TLC essentially paved the way for the likes of Destiny’s Child on today’s hip-hop influenced charts and this song was just one of several highlights on their debut album CrazySexyCool. 10 – “(Wake Up) Make A Move” – lostprophets Loud alt-rockers lostprophets are a mainstay on the Modern Rock charts and this tune is the reason why – an incredibly catchy number that truly rocks. The song is included on the album Start Something. ************************************************* Sound Check By Just Russ From Update #1182 - August 19, 2004 Welcome to the “Sizzling Sounds of August” as presented by Just Russ. Keeping diversity alive in music choice, a handful of new artists and some familiar voices comprise the list this month. If you haven’t been to the music store lately, then you are missing out on some great stuff. Success stories like country’s Gretchen Wilson and the return of Prince aside, rock music has made gains in the market, Jimmy Buffett just scored his first-ever #1 pop album, and alternative breakout acts like Hoobastank and Franz Ferdinand are happily part of the urban crossover fray. One of the best ways I’ve found to treat myself is to go out and discover something new. The choices are almost infinite. Here’s my list of current faves: 1 – Matt Damon helps breath new life into Moby’s two-year old track “Extreme Ways” as the song is used in the closing credits of The Bourne Supremacy. It is an awesome song included in an awesome action-packed thriller of a movie. The score for the film was composed, produced and arranged by John Powell and the Hollywood Studio Symphony nails tracks like “Goa” beautifully and the Moby track can also be found on the soundtrack release. 2 – Hardcore music fans may remember the song “The Promise” as being a hit for When In Rome a few years back, however, the song is making a move on the dance charts in a new version performed by Tony Moran. Moran’s sweet vocals adorn the track and the new single release is available with four mixes in addition to the Radio Edit. The catchy song is pure perfection as the Tony Moran & Warren Rigg Extended Mix. 3 – Former Creed bandmates minus frontman Scott Stapp regroup as Alter Bridge and their new track “Open Your Eyes” is a slice of rock heaven. Lead vocals are sung by another hottie named Myles Kennedy. The band’s new album One Day Remains is available now. Look for a solo project from Stapp to be released in a few months while he promotes his new song “Relearn Love.” 4 – The whole concept of Big & Rich is homoerotic in a peculiar kind of way and the song “Save A Horse (Ride A Cowboy),” confirms this theory. The duo is leaving a trail of fans in the wake of the song as it dominates the dance floor in country saloons as well as gay clubs across America. This could very well be the theme song for the Gay Rodeo Circuit this year. The song is taken from the bestselling album Horse Of A Different Color. Country music hasn’t been this loud and proud in a long time. 5 – Timbaland, among other producers, guides Brandy into a mature setting with the release of the new album Afrodisiac and with songs like the powerful “Who Is She 2 U,” the singer scores. That track features a steady beat and vocals that sound just a little rough around the edges thanks to the excellent ear of Timbaland. Afrodisiac is the beginning of a new chapter in her already successful career. 6 – Latin music makes a welcome return to the upper reaches of the pop charts thanks to a trio of brothers from West Texas who perform a hip bilingual mix of country and Tex-Mex rock. The track “Heaven” from Los Lonely Boys is just that, a slice of music heaven, and is taken from their self-titled album. The work has now sold a million copies so there must be a heck of a lot of fans who agree with Willie Nelson about the band being a favorite. Don’t miss the live acoustic version exclusively available on the CD single release. 7 – Scissor Sisters are a smash in the United Kingdom. This mixed-gender band may hail from New York but they recall the Elton John seventies sound perfectly. Their electric and brilliant self-titled debut album is a top seller on the official U.K. charts and the band is now set to capture audiences across America. The delicious track “Take Your Mama” is infectious and catchy to the point of hysteria. Swirling rock melodies and powerful ballads comprise their first work including a disco-infused cover reading of Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb.” 8 – Together Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss make heartbreak and sorrow sound simply gorgeous. The song “Whiskey Lullaby” is a beautiful yet somber tune about loss and the pair is able to evoke a raw emotion that recalls classic country songs back in the day of George Jones and Tammy Wynette. How wonderful to hear radio embracing this gem. The song is featured on Paisley’s excellent album Mud On The Tires. 9 – Jennifer Holliday is my retro pick this month. She’s got such a powerful voice that she should be hailed by the masses. The album The Best Of Jennifer Holliday is reviewed in Just Russ’ Music Spotlight on page 23. The top track spinning away in my player is the previously unreleased mix of “No Frills Love.” The Love To Infinity Sessions ’96 version is a wonderful reworking of the high energy song and if justice were to be served the song would find a way to gain new life on the dancefloor. 10 – George Michael’s Patience is an album that should not be overlooked. The critically-acclaimed release has already spawned the #1 dance hit “Amazing” and the artist could very well repeat this feat with the song “Flawless (Go To The City).” The track is a totally gay throwback to the immaculate and decorated eighties. Nonetheless, it fits perfectly into the diverse dance scene today. Michael co-wrote and also produced and arranged the track. Lyrics like “you’re beautiful, you are, and you know it / you’re wasted here, you’re a star / in this small town in hand-me-downs who don’t even know it” are flawless indeed, honey. Thanks for listening! Until next time, your homework assignment is to go buy one album in a genre of music you typically would not approach. Surprise yourself. Spend a few minutes at one of the listening posts at Tower Records or splurge on a purchase because the cover picture of the artist is totally hot. Be really cool and support the work of an independent artist. I’ve got plenty more to report on so I’ll be back soon! ------------------------------------------------- Got Pride? Get Music! — a Chat with DJ Randy Bettis Interview by Just Russ From Update Issue #1179 - July 29, 2004 Keep your eye and ear on Randy Bettis. The New York DJ and producer is one of the hottest guys to ignite the dance scene this year and his first full-length album compilation has just been released by Centaur Entertainment. In addition to his album projects he continues to find time to expand his tour schedule and is also trying his hand at songwriting. I had the opportunity to speak with Randy via telephone recently and he was delighted to share a message of Pride for everyone in San Diego. Of course we discussed his new album while I took time to compliment him on being so sweet and extremely adorable in his photos. “It was a nice challenge for me,” Randy explained about the opportunity to produce the Party Groove: Gay Days compilation. “I was given creative control over the library of songs that were offered and ultimately made the decision on the ones for the CD.” He is known for his brand of high-energy dance music and the thrill of being approached to put together this project had special meaning for him. “I have worked for Disney, thus it was a very familiar setting for me.” The Gay Days record is the first volume of music celebrating the week-long event in Orlando. “I have got fond memories of my association with Disney. I worked on both the Beauty and the Beast and Indiana Jones attractions. My seven months was a good experience. So being part of this project is very special.” Randy is a former competitive gymnast and has worked in the musical theatre business. He graduated from Southern Illinois University and currently calls Manhattan home. He considers himself fortunate to have been able to break into Broadway rather easily and achieve more than one creative endeavor. “One has to be passionate about dance music,” he explained. “You have to love it. There is big money in Europe but it’s different in the United States.” Randy feels that a DJ can be easily overexposed once he becomes hot. Staying in touch and involved with different aspects of the industry can, however, lead to a formidable career. “I think it’s totally worth it. We must all forget our troubles sometimes and have a great time.” And he is most grateful to be able to work in a business that he so enjoys. He is taking time to work on writing a Broadway musical about a young girl who goes to New York and falls into the club scene. “But it will end happily ever after.” I said that it sounded like a perfect Disney conclusion to me and he agreed. “I really love playing at outdoor events. It is fantastic for me to be out under the stars or seeing flags waving by the ocean.” While he does not have any immediate plans to visit the West Coast he will be in Austin in September during the Labor Day weekend. He is looking forward to the Texas gig and said the Lone Star boys are thrilled he is coming their way. Additionally he has just been confirmed to perform at a Gay Days at Six Flags in New Jersey on September 10 and will participate with the “Heritage of Pride” celebrations in New York City. “San Diego is actually a dream place of mine to perform. I have had the chance to visit and everyone is always on their best behavior and so honest.” Randy also speaks highly of DJ Tony Moran and singer Deborah Cox. “Tony is really hot right now and I cannot get enough of Deborah Cox.” He also recommends the hit “If I Close My Eyes” by Reina. He is excited about the opportunity to work on some remixes for Ari Gold and to work with a new group called The Honey Boys as he assists on producing some tracks for an Atlantis Cruises show with the group. Randy is also finding time to complete a new project called Club Broadway. The remixing project is an effort with his musical partner Boyd. He mentioned the fabulous remix of Jennifer Holliday’s “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going” as a good example of the goal to go beyond just producing “disco versions of Ethel Merman tracks.” They are shopping for a distribution deal right now. He holds company with Boyd, Broadway performer Christopher Davis, and Production Manager Frankie Braxton as part of the Bet Boyz Production Team. Together the four are a fabulous looking bunch. For a look at their impressive résumé go online to www.betboyz.com. “While it might be a bit cliché, I think RuPaul said it best by stating that you should enjoy the fact that you can express who you are and be proud of that. It’s pretty fantastic to be able to be out and proud with your fashion or your music choices and that it is possible to do so.” He concluded by wishing everyone in San Diego to “have a good Pride.” ------------------------------------------------- Profile: Kristine W by Just Russ #1158 03/04/04 Kristine W is on a mission. She is embarking on a new tour, sporting a new look, enjoying a newfound energy, and heartily embracing a renewed confidence. Her new album Fly Again is by all accounts a wild success, and this has secured her place as one of the nation’s top dance music artists. A stunning seven remixes from the new disc are dancefloor gems. A complete review of the new CD follows in the Just Russ Music Spotlight on page 23 of this edition. In anticipation of her upcoming San Diego appearance at Rich’s on Saturday, March 13, I had an opportunity to speak with the singer via the telephone to get the scoop on her tour, her music, and to see how she is feeling after her remarkable battle with cancer. We also took some time to dish on some Queer As Folk behind-the-scenes stories. Her new CD follows her phenomenal Land Of The Living debut in 1996 and the followup Stronger in 2000. Songs like “One More Try” and “Some Lovin’” have kept the KW name and dance diva in the limelight and her music on the dancefloors. Her music has regularly been featured on QAF, and while she’d like to find her way onto the acting scene one day, she is very content with making music right now. The singer calls Las Vegas home, but is equally comfortable being with her fans all over the world. In 2001 she became deplete of energy and realized her health was failing. After extensive medical tests that led to a bone marrow biopsy a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) was determined. On the historic date of 9/11 she was having a stem cell transplant and was fighting for her life. She shared, “Every day was a gift and my music became tremendously precious to me, for I now know how fortunate I am to be here.” Her cancer is in full remission and most days she feels really, really good. “I’m savoring the moment. I’m feeling okay and I’m out to have fun.” Kristine says she’ll be playing the hits on her tour. “I’m enjoying talking to the fans again and thanking them for all of their support and kind words. It is wonderful to see everyone again. I’m really looking forward to San Diego again. I’ve got a new look, I’ll play a little saxophone and we’ll see what other surprises happen.” She is also scheduled to appear at the upcoming 30th Anniversary LGBT San Diego Pride Celebration. She wrote much of the material on the new CD and when inspiration hits, she’ll sit down and write. Her favorite tracks on the new work include “I’ll Be Your Light” and “The Wonder Of It All.” She also enjoys performing “Big Big Band” because it is so much fun. She is pleased with the response to the new work and considers it her best work. “I write jazz, country, all kinds of stuff. I’m anticipating a new album of all-time personal favorite songs, tunes my grandma taught me. Classics old and new, obscure jazz tunes, and things like ‘Love Ballad’ by George Benson.” She said she grew up with all kinds of music and musical influences like Al Jarreau, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sarah Vaughn. “My favorite country artist and songwriter is Dolly Parton. And I’ve always loved Donna Summer and I think Diana Ross was happiest and funniest during her ‘Upside Down’ days.” Kristine is delighted that dance music is finding a home in the mainstream music market. “Now that it is crossing over, it is a cool genre. Folks are finding out how much people enjoy this type of music, especially at clubs. Record executives don’t always see it because they are not at Pride events and clubs.” She considers it medicine for the soul to be able to go out and dance and enjoy life. She thoroughly enjoyed shooting a video with the QAF cast and was most impressed with Sharon Gless. “The fag hags that we are, it was such a surprise how amazingly cool Sharon is. It was so memorable and inspiring for me. I remember we were celebrating her 60th birthday and she’s is just so funny, complete with a truck driver’s mouth – I mean I was blown away about how independent she is, full of spunk and spirit. Her wig was killing me!” She is also looking forward to the new season of the series. She speaks highly about the good team and amazing producers that work on QAF. She is friends with the music supervisor and is priviledged to have been asked to contribute to the project. “The entire cast and production team are allowed to have creative input and they keep it real.” Further she is fascinated by how real the series reflects the lifestyle. She explained that understands it is hard to accept sometimes, but individuals can get caught up and party way too much – and sometimes can’t pull themselves back out of the fire. “But it is a great show and I’m glad to see the lifestyle getting this kind of push.” Her fans and her family, including her two little ones, Jack Ryan (J.R.) and Elizabeth are her life right now. Her kids, ages 4 and 5, are in preschool and, as she puts it, “are so cute right now. I can’t wait to get home after being on the road and savor it. It is for them that the quest for survival made me fight harder than I thought that I could.” All the while she’s doing what she’s got to do to promote the new CD – just like any other artist - including shaking some boobs and booty. Can we expect any wardrobe malfunctions, I inquire? “Yes! I’m gonna come out to the world as a man!” Kristine W performs at Rich’s, 1054 University Avenue on Saturday, March 13. The show is being hosted by Chad Michaels and SDPix.com. No advance ticket sales. Cover charge is $12. Call (619) 497-4LUV for additional information. Learn more about the artist at kristinew.com and kristinewtour.com. She will also be performing in Palm Springs on Saturday, March 27 at “A Night In Hollywood” during the Dinah Shore Weekend. Her new CD Fly Again is available on Tommy Boy Records. -------------------------------------------------- Just Russ Music Spotlight #1158 03/04/04 I’ve been told that music can be therapy for the soul. Of course, I do believe this. This can be true for both the listener and for the creator. After an illness sidetracked Kristine W, she found a renewed enthusiasm and has released an absolute gem of a record. Fly Again is urgent yet easily accessible. Although known as a dance artist, the tracks on the new album are all solid pop nuggets that are perfect for the radio or the dancefloor. When Kristine W croons that she wants to be your queen on “All That Really Matters,” you believe it. Inspirational songs like “The Wonder Of It All” and the title track are uplifting and genuinely fun to listen to repeatedly. Ten of the 12 tracks were written by the artist and her story is vividly told on each one. Without losing sight of her core audience, she weaves a message through the beats. Songs like “I’ll Be Your Light” and “Living Out Loud” are examples of this. Fly Again is available on Tommy Boy Records and package includes a second disc of seven tracks in a continuous dance mix by Chris Cox. A fierce compilation to an already great record and one that should satisfy even the most discerning dance music fan. The imaginative cover artwork represents a sense of rebirth for the artist, the butterfly emerging from a cocoon, and what a beautiful result. For Kristine W fans, I don’t need to sing the praises of her debut record Land Of The Living. Every single she has released has hit the top of the dance charts and the best dj remixers and producers have worked with her songs. Given the solid results of Fly Again, her discography, and chart success, I remain baffled by the resistance of radio to jump on the Kristine W bandwagon. -------------------------------------------------- If you thought the “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” fad was going to be a passing trend, then you had better think again. Fans will have an opportunity to divulge deeper into the phenomenon on Tuesday, February 10, when a new health/how-to book and series soundtrack is released. I promptly expect both items to become a cult hit among gay men and the Fab 5’s devoted straight audience. Ted Allen, Carson Kressley, Kyan Douglas, Thom Filicia, and Jai Rodriquez have certainly made our world a whole lot more fabulous. The 256-page hardcover book will offer advice and tips on everything from cooking to dressing better. Five different covers are part of this slick marketing campaign. Officially titled Queer Eye for the Straight Guy: The Fab 5’s Guide to Looking Better, Cooking Better, Dressing Better, Behaving Better, and Living Better, it is destined to become a bestseller even with a $27.50 list price. Queer Eye for the Straight Guy – TV Soundtrack should also be a hit. The show’s theme song “All Things (Just Keep Getting Better) by Widelife featuring Simone Denny is the opening track on the 13-song compilation. “All Things” is already a smash on dancefloors across the nation and look for the first pressing of the release to include a bonus DVD that features the video to the song. Additionally, Basement Jaxx, Duran Duran, Liz Phair, Disciples of Noise, and a remix of Kylie Minogue’s “Slow,” highlight this package. Elton John’s rediscovered hit “Are You Ready for Love” and Junior Senior’s bouncy smash “Move Your Feet” are also included. I’m delighted at the prospect of a dance music compilation becoming a bona fide bestseller. Filicia has already filmed spots for Pier 1 and more product endorsements are sure to come. Culture queen Rodriguez is currently working on tracks for a solo album. Jai has some background in singing and has performed at the Roxy in New York. He also appeared in productions of Rent and Zanna, Don’t! before his big break. Expect a thoroughly pop affair infused with dance and soul elements. Although a label deal has yet to be signed, he is hopeful of a summer release for his debut solo project. -------------------------------------------------- The Lists - Best of 2003 by Just Russ I’m a list person and I’ll be the first to admit it. For my year in music 2003 wrap up article, I decided to tease you with the top 5 in six different musical categories while I including my five Guilty Pleasures of the year too. I actually rank the top 20 on seven lists which you can also read online at www.sdpride.com/byjustruss. The bonus category is my Hot Guy List for 2003. You’ll find an assortment of dream guys on this particular chart. The year gone by was definitely interesting. A number of outstanding artists made debuts, especially on the country charts. It was a welcome comeback for some, too, like the stunning return of Annie Lennox and Kristine W. It was a year of controversy mixed with scandal. And it was a difficult year full of fond farewells. Music sales continued to decline, although the holiday season brought a boost to overall units sold. That was a welcome relief for an industry fighting illegal downloads. The very young Joss Stone offered a stunning, soulful debut and found a home on my Best of the Best list. The intriguing duo of Junior Senior found a home on the dancefloor with a delicious upbeat record while several new names hit the county charts. Billy Currington, Dusty Drake, Jimmy Wayne, and Brian McComas made impressive debuts as the surge of cowboys made up for a serious lack of female presence in the genre. Beyonce Knowles excused her fabulous self from Destiny’s Child to release one successful solo project. Evanescence brought goth rock back to the charts and dance music continued to flourish as debuts from Becky Baeling and Dannii Minogue were well received. Rap and hip-hop dominated the charts and the radio airwaves. Incredibly, the Grammy Awards finally reflect their popularity this year. Beyonce, 50 Cent, and Outkast are all top nominees. Poignant tracks like “Where Is The Love” from Black Eyed Peas with Justin Timberlake and “Dance With My Father” by Luther Vandross are worthy additions to my year-end lists. The poster child of the year was Britney Spears. She managed to keep herself on almost every magazine cover in the world, made headlines with Madonna for “the kiss,” released a new album in which she sings a song about masturbation, and topped the dance charts. Then as the rest of us forged our way into 2004 she sorta got married. Let this be a reminder that even if sales of In The Zone weren’t that newsworthy, then anything she does will be. Annie Lennox returned after a considerable absence, as did Lyle Lovett, and Kristine W overcame illness to make the dance record of the year. Alicia Keys’ sophomore work became one of the top titles in 2003. Country crossover group The Mavericks got back together to record and Rick Trevino returned with a remarkable Latin-influenced country album as Mavericks frontman Raul Malo produced the effort. Michael Jackson currently faces the greatest challenge of his career and by all indications I’m not too sure he is taking it all very seriously. Legal issues aside, his song “One More Chance” did not click with an audience and the release of Number Ones was not true to its title. Pink, Christina Aguilera, and Britney Spears weren’t shy about speaking out against the other, while country guru Toby Keith and The Dixie Chicks traded insults throughout the year. Both made the headlines although I think the backlash against the Chicks was well exaggerated. It was also a year of curious bedfellows. Chris Martin of Coldplay said “I Do” with Gwyneth Paltrow, Nicole Kidman was hanging with Lenny Kravitz, and Jack White is working with legendary Loretta Lynn on an upcoming release. The White Stripes singer also contributed much of the material to the soundtrack for Cold Mountain. And now it looks like Cameron Diaz has her eyes set upon the adorable Justin Timberlake. It was a difficult year for saying goodbye too. In addition to the passing of entertainers like Bob Hope, Gregory Hines, and Nell Carter, fond farewells are in order for Maurice Gibb, Barry White, Johnny Paycheck, Edwin Starr, Nina Simone, Howie Epstein of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, Herbie Mann, Benny Carter, Celia Cruz, Sun Records founder Sam Philips, Warren Zevon, Robert Palmer, Elliott Smith, Bobby Hatfield of The Righteous Brothers, Don Gibson, and Gary Stewart. The deaths of both husband and wife Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, however, have left me numb. Her unexpected passing in May after heart surgery left a void in both country music and the great man’s life. He died shortly thereafter in September of complications from diabetes after years of failing health. Carter had completed work on Wildwood Flower prior to her passing and her last release has earned on my list of top ten country albums this year. Her final work is a poignant and timeless collection of traditional country songs. I wouldn’t usually consider including a boxed set in my lists, but the Cash Unearthed collection is nothing short of a masterpiece. Six discs, five of which include music never before released including an exclusive gospel compilation, are part of the set. His work with producer Rick Rubin was extremely fruitful and the scope of their sessions are evident here. My top picks this year are quite varied, but that’s how I like it. My taste in music is quite diverse and will usually cross genre borders. I hope Update readers aren’t afraid to listen to something new every once in a while as well. The grit and honesty that Lucinda Williams expressed in World Without Tears was the perfect sentiment to a difficult year. Her latest album surpassed my expectations for another great work from the folk-rock singer and I’m pleased to list her at the top of my year-end countdown. My guilty pleasures this year? No explanation will be needed once you read the list. 1. Beyonce with Jay Z — “Crazy in Love” 2. Toby Keith — “I Love This Bar” 3. Kelly Clarkson — “Miss Independent” 4. Three Doors Down — “Here Without You” 5. Chingy — “Right Thurr” What’s ahead in 2004? First, circle Tuesday, February 10, on your calendar because it’s gonna be a gay superday for new music. The soundtrack to “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” Lucky from Melissa Etheridge, and Body Language from Kylie Minogue all will be released. We’ve also got the new music coming in the next couple of months from Janet Jackson, Norah Jones, Courtney Love, Usher, and Kenny Chesney. Sounds like the new year will be off to a great start! For additional commentary and my complete countdown go to www.sdpride.com/byjustruss. Thank you for indulging me for a spell while I share my picks. Let me know what you think by writing me at ByJustRuss@aol.com. Happy listening! Best Of The Best 1...Lucinda Williams – World Without Tears 2...Annie Lennox – Bare 3...Fleetwood Mac – Say You Will 4...Ryan Adams – Love Is Hell Parts 1 & 2 (Eps) 5...Joss Stone – The Soul Sessions 6...The Jayhawks – Rainy Day Music 7...Al Green – I Can’t Stop 8...Alicia Keys – The Diary Of Alicia Keys 9...Ann Nesby – Make Me Better 10...Basement Jaxx – Kish Kash 11...Nelly Furtado – Folklore 12...Black Eyed Peas – Elephunk 13...Evanescence – Fallen 14...Sean Watkins – 26 Miles 15...Kinky – Atlas 16...BT – Emotional Technology 17...Macy Gray – The Trouble With Being Myself 18...Cassandra Wilson – Glamoured 19...Gavin DeGraw – Chariot 20...Rufus Wainwright – Want One Best Country Albums 1...Johnny Cash – Cash Unearthed 2...George Strait – Honkytonkville 3...Patty Loveless – On Your Way Home 4...Gary Allan – See If I Care 5...Lyle Lovett – My Baby Don’t Tolerate 6...June Carter Cash – Wildwood Flower 7...Shelby Lynne – Identity Crisis 8...Rosanne Cash – The Rules Of Travel 9...Jeannie Kendall – Jeannie Kendall 10...Josh Turner – Long Black Train 11...Various Artists - Just Because I’m A Woman – Songs Of Dolly Parton 12...Rodney Crowell – Fate’s Right Hand 13...Rick Trevino – In My Dreams 14...The Mavericks – The Mavericks 15...Various Artists – Livin’, Lovin’, Losin’ – Songs Of The Louvin Brothers 16...Martina McBride – Martina 17...Brad Paisley – Mud On The Tires 18...Emmylou Harris – Stumble Into Grace 19...Brian McComas – Brian McComas (tie) Jimmy Wayne – Jimmy Wayne 20...Deana Carter – I’m Just A Girl Best Songs 1...Black Eyed Peas featuring Justin Timberlake – “Where Is The Love?” 2...Alicia Keys – “If I Ain’t Got You” 3...Outkast – “Hey Ya!” (and) “The Way You Move” 4...Staind – “So Far Away” 5...Evanescence – “Bring Me To Life” 6...Peter Cincotti – “I Changed The Rules” 7...Kevin Aviance – “Seattle” 8...Luther Vandross – “Dance With My Father” 9...Liz Phair – “Why Can’t I?” 10...Dido – “White Flag” 11...Mary J. Blige – “Love @ 1st Sight” 12...Blink 182 with vocals by Robert Smith – “All Of This” 13...David Bowie – “Days” 14...Coldplay – “Clocks (Live 2003)” 15...Elton John – “The Heart Of Every Girl” 16...Josh Kelley – “Amazing” 17...Nickelback – “Someday” 18...Fountains Of Wayne – “Stacy’s Mom” 19...Jonny Lang – “Red Light” 20...No Doubt – “It’s My Life” Best Country Songs 1...Josh Turner – “Long Black Train” 2...Terri Clark – “I Just Wanna Be Mad” 3...George Strait – “Tell Me Something Bad About Tulsa” 4...Dixie Chicks – “Top Of The World” 5...Jeannie Kendall – “Serious Doubt” 6...Reba McEntire – “Sky Full Of Angels” 7...Tim McGraw – “Real Good Man” 8...Rodney Crowell – “Earthbound” 9...Alan Jackson with Jimmy Buffett – “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” 10...Dusty Drake – “One Last Time” 11...Brian McComas – “Baby Let Me Be Your Man” 12...Martina McBride – “This One’s For The Girls” 13...Clay Walker – “I Can’t Sleep” 14...Deana Carter – “I’m Just A Girl” 15...Brad Paisley – “Celebrity” 16...Billy Currington – “Walk A Little Straighter” 17...Dierks Bentley – “What Was I Thinkin’” 18...Clay Walker – “A Few Questions” 19...Jimmy Wayne – “Stay Gone” 20...Trace Adkins – “Welcome To Hell” Best Dance Songs 1...Kristine W – “Fly Again” 2...Paul Van Dyk featuring Vega 4 – “Time Of Our Lives” 3...Christina Aguilera – “Beautiful” 4...Murk vs Kristine W – “Some Lovin’” 5...Junior Senior – “Move Your Feet” 6...Deborah Cooper – “Real Love” 7...Made By Monkeys – “I Try” 8...Deborah Cox – “Something Happened On The Way To Heaven” 9...Annie Lennox – “Pavement Cracks” 10...Britney Spears with Madonna – “Me Against The Music” 11...Kylie Minogue – “Slow” (and) “Sweet Music” (Import Single) 12...Christina Aguilera – “That’s What Love Can Do” 13...Seal – “Get It Together” 14...Kelis – “Milkshake” 15...Industry – “Release Me” 16...Sarah Brightman – “Harem” 17...Peter Rauhofer – “This Is My House” 18...Galleon – “So I Begin” 19...Weekend Players – “Into The Sun” 20...Nick Lachey – “Shut Up” Top Divas 1...Kristine W 2...Bette Midler 3...Beyonce Knowles 4...Linda Eder 5...Madonna 6...Ellen DeGeneres 7...Britney Spears 8...Annie Lennox 9...Missy Elliott 10...Sarah McLachlan 11...Sarah Brightman 12...Cyndi Lauper 13...Aretha Franklin 14...Becky Baeling 15...Kylie Minogue 16...Pat Benatar 17...Dannii Minogue 18...Mya 19...Queen Latifah 20...Kelis The Hot Guy List 1...Ashton Kutcher 2...Chris Carmack 3...Andy Roddick 4...Travis Fimmel 5...Colin Farrell 6...Viggo Mortensen 7...Tom Welling 8...Jude Law 9...Paul Walker 10...Justin Timberlake 11...Orlando Bloom 12...Nick Lachey 13...Enrique Iglesias 14...Ryan Reynolds 15...Gael Garcia Bernal 16...Ewan McGregor 17...David Beckham 18...Tim McGraw 19...Wes Culwell 20...Eric Szmanda -------------------------------------------------- Just Russ’ Music Spotlight Elton John is one of the best performers in the world and 2004 should be a stellar year for this consummate entertainer. He is set to begin an exclusive engagement in Las Vegas while preparing an album of new material to be released this fall. Let’s not forget his first and only career-spanning collection entitled Elton John’s Greatest Hits 1970-2002, a two-CD package, remains a bestseller. Not to mention a remastered issue of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road - Deluxe Edition, complete with extra bonus tracks, is now available. Elton was also nominated for a Golden Globe Award for his song “The Heart of Every Girl” from the Mona Lisa Smile soundtrack. The Globes will be televised on Sunday, January 25, and his engagement at The Coliseum at Caesar’s Palace in Sin City begins on February 13. If you recall, Caesar’s is also the home of Celine Dion’s extravaganza. His “Red Piano” show, which is the first of his 3-year contract with the Vegas venue, is currently scheduled through April 4. David LaChappelle has been hired as producer and set designer so it’s sure to be a knockout. Tickets are available by calling (888) 4-ELTON. To kick off the new year, the Rocket Man released a special EP titled Remixed. The five-track package includes the original 1979 edit of “Are You Ready for Love,” which has found a home on dance floors all over the world, along with The Ashley Beddle’s Love and Protection Mono Edit remix. An acoustic version of “Candle in the Wind,” “Rocket Man 03,” and “Song for Guy (Remix)” complete the disc. The largely instrumental “Song for Guy” is one of the most beautiful songs in his catalog and this new 8-minute version merely enhances the track’s poignancy. Looks like the bitch is back and better than ever. -------------------------------------------------- DJ and Producer Barry Harris — Profile (From Issue #1149, 01/01/04) By Just Russ Going into 2004, Barry Harris is retaining his busy schedule. As an accomplished DJ, producer, and songwriter he has been touring non-stop with extensive travel between the East and West Coasts. His recent gig at The Factory in Los Angeles was another super show. I had an opportunity to speak with the handsome artist via telephone while he was at his home in LA preparing to celebrate New Year’s Eve at Blu in Atlanta. We did some catching up about the current music scene, his hectic schedule, and the upcoming Grammy Awards. “Every day is a gift,” Harris shared. “Not to be arrogant or anything, but I’m happy to be known nationwide and appreciate the chance to travel so much.” Not surprisingly, the soft-spoken Barry is most sincere with his career success and happiness. He is perhaps best known for his work as one half of the duo Thunderpuss and the for the phenomenal hit “Dive In The Pool,” which he co-wrote with singer Pepper Mashay. Taking a glance at his discography, however, reveals a quite extensive list. He’s remixed songs for the usual cast of characters including Cher, Madonna, Whitney, Donna, and Britney. Most recently he reworked the track “So Yesterday” by Hilary Duff. His popularity will continue to soar as his remix of “All Things,” the theme song for the TV hit “Queer Eye For The Straight Guy,” will be featured on the upcoming soundtrack. “Expect some old rock and electroclash on the soundtrack,” he told me. The project will feature Billy Squire and Fischerspooner among others. Barry’s production of Kon Kan’s international hit “I Beg Your Pardon” was his initial claim to fame in 1988. He continued to work through the next decade in collaboration with Toronto-based DJ David Kelly as Top Kat and with Rachid Wehbi as Outta Control. In 1998 his collaboration with fellow DJ and producer Chris Cox simply known as Thunderpuss firmly put him in demand and kept him on the dance charts. Today he can’t get enough of Monica and speaks highly of the many “icons” he’s been able to work with during the years. “It was a thrill to meet and work with Mary J. Blige, and Cher — she’s just cool. Donna Summer is awesome and is an icon legend.” He also admits to being smitten with Chris Martin of Coldplay, and we both agreed he’s totally hot. But alas, Gwyneth Paltrow has first bids apparently. Talking about the international smash “Dive In The Pool,” Barry commented, “Pepper’s personality fit right into the concept. She was great.” The song is available as a new CD single featuring new 2003 remixes. He would also like to work on more alternative music in the future, however, and mentioned David Bowie as an artistic legend with whom he would like the opportunity to work. As he pursues a solo career, he and Chris Cox are moving on with projects outside of Thunderpuss, and Harris is very grateful to be in demand for appearances around the country. He has a fondness for working in New York and his hometown Toronto. As a California resident now he quipped that, “I’ll never be the surfer type. That just won’t happen.” He recalled attending the San Diego Zoo Party for the first time during Pride last year and looks forward to returning to San Diego. He told me that he only writes when he’s inspired. “When I get excited about something in particular, I write. It’s not a ‘9 to 5’ job, so I can’t turn on being artistic. I just run with the flow.” In addition to his contribution to the “Queer Eye” soundtrack, he will continue to tour and make club appearances with several upcoming remixing projects at hand. Eventually he’d like to release a solo album, but is content to take it all one project at a time. “There’s so much yet to do. Every five years or so is a chapter for me. I’d like to take advantage of doing some movie or television stuff while I’m in Los Angeles. I’ll embrace whatever comes along. I think I’ve got one kick-ass guardian angel who keeps taking me to the next level.” “The gay audience take their music very seriously,” he continued. “They can be very critical and that’s a good thing. Madonna knew that and look at the creative success she continues to achieve. If you can please a gay crowd, then you can please anybody.” He commented that it is the younger audience, those in the 19-28 age range, that are most passionate about their music, are in tune with alternative college radio, and drive trends. “I understand that and keep in touch. I challenge myself. This keeps me excited about the music.” He listens to pop stations and alternative rock when traveling, but laughing, admitted to enjoying the “sound of silence” in his off time. “Actually, one of my guilty pleasures is taking a night off and catching ‘disco night’ in Studio City.” He loves the music from the 1970s and 1980s. He added, “I don’t want to hear the stuff that I play every night.” As a voting member of the Grammy Academy, he’s aware of the nominations but said he’ll probably pass on the ceremony this year. He’s much more impressed with the many parties and opportunities to catch up with old friends and colleagues. For now, he’s enjoying his success and doesn’t foresee a slowdown in his travel. “Most of the work is at the airports,” he admitted. “The music and the DJ part, well, that comes naturally.” Barry sees a trend where audiences are enjoying dance music in smaller, intimate venues. That’s not to diss the big clubs or parties, but the cozy, warm, lounge type places is something he’d like to see. As for his upcoming shows, he always keeps it fresh and full of surprises. “Every show is unique. I play at the time, not with a predetermined set, so it can be unpredictable and it depends on the night, the place, and the crowd. I like to keep it fresh and exciting. That keeps the hunger going.” More information about the artist himself is available at www.barryharrisnyc.com. -------------------------------------------------- |
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