Halloween Song of the Day - Thriller - Michael Jackson

It's close to midnight
     and something evil's lurking in the dark...

Happy Halloween!

Halloween Weekend Song of the Day - Time Warp - The Rocky Horror Picture Show

It's astounding
Time is fleeting
Madness, takes its toll

But listen closely

Not for very much longer

I've got to keep control

No Halloween is complete without at least one listen, and dance, to the Time Warp from that most classic of all campy horror flicks, The Rocky Horror Picture Show.   So, c'mon, let's do the time warp again...

It's just a jump to the left

And then a step to the right

Put your hand on your hips

And bring your knees in tight

And do the pelvic thrust

That really drives you insay ay aaaane...

Halloween Weekend Song of the Day - I Put a Spell On You - Bette Midler, from Hocus Pocus

Happy Halloween Weekend!  I'm sure that many of you out there are already recovering from the first round of Halloween parties last night and so maybe this morning's a good time to kick back, relax, and check in a lighthearted and classic Halloween flick like Hocus Pocus.  I'm not exactly sure why, but this one seems to gather more and more of a cultish following every year and has become one of the most popular.  Here's a great scene from the Halloween party in the movie, as the notorious Sanderson sisters put a spell on the entire crowd...

Flashback Friday Song of the Day - Lover Come Back to Me - Dead or Alive

The follow-up single to the monster hit You Spin Me Round (Like a Record) was an even higher energy song that's as iconic of the band as its predecessor.  Great flashback and a perfect song to get your weekend started off right.  Here's Love Come Back to Me...

Song of the Day - In Too Deep - Dead or Alive

I could offer you a thousand things

But a lot of them you wouldn't bother

I could buy you ten real diamond rings

But I'm sure that you would want another

I could take a plane and I could fly away

I could, steal a car and I could drive away

But I'm in too deep 

There's no getting out of it

In too deep

No doubt about it

Ah memories!  We continue our week-long tribute to Pete Burns, who passed away suddenly on Sunday, with one of my favorite songs from Dead or Alive's Youthquake album.  This one brings me back to one of my favorite clubs from my heyday, a new wave/alternative joint called Spanky's.  Oh if I could only go back for just one night!  Great song, great place!  Check out In Too Deep...

Song of the Day - Sexdrive - Pete Burns, with Glam

After a few years of virtual obscurity after the band's highly successful Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know album of 1987, Pete Burns resurfaced in 1994 with a minor dance hit that had Dead or Alive written all over it.  The song's artist was branded under the name Glam and when the band recorded their 1996 album Nukleopatra, they rerecorded the tune.  Vintage! Here's a rare video of Pete and Glam performing the song in Italy in 1994...

Song of the Day - You Spin Me Round (Like a Record Baby) - Dead or Alive

Here is the song that first put Dead or Alive on the map and started a wave hard-driving dance tunes that had many of us dancing throughout the mid-eighties and beyond.  I remember when I first heard it, I had no idea what the heck they were saying in the chorus, but it didn't matter.  That hook is still as infectious today as it was back then.  Check out You Spin Me Round (Like a Record Baby)... 

R.I.P. Pete Burns

It was a sad day in the music world today as Pete Burns, once the frontman of an awesomely popular new wave band and later in life a popular British icon eccentric, lost his life today to a massive cardiac arrest.  He was only 57 years old.  Due to the fact that he was so highly renowned in his native Britain, we here in the States never got to really know the Pete Burns of the past, ooh, thirty years or so since Dead or Alive was in its heyday.  His stint on Celebrity Big Brother, the many changes to his appearance via cosmetic surgeries, and his overall in-your-face-and-be-who-you-are persona made him immensely popular on the other side of the Pond and there are many out there mourning his loss.

Dead or Alive, and Pete Burns specifically, was a big part of my youth.  Their 1985 album Youthquake was a goldmine of hard-driving dance-floor gems and I actually had to purchase a second copy because I wore out the first one.  I was lucky enough to get to see them perform once out in Sag Harbor and their high energy set still lingers in my mind like it was yesterday.   Yeah, I loved that band, so much so that for the rest of the week I'll be dedicating Song of the Day posts to his memory. Here's a taste from their follow-up album, Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know.  Check out Brand New Lover...

Song of the Day - Turn Around - Conor Maynard, feat. Ne-Yo

Here's a nice tune from Brit crooner Conor Maynard.  The tune was released way back in 2012, as the third single from his debut album, Contrast, and this one features the sweet-voiced Ne-Yo on guest vocals.  I heard it in a bar in Florida about a month ago and loved it from the start.  Check out the anthemic Turn Around...

Song of the Day - Dust My Shoulders Off - Jane Zhang, feat. Timbaland

Where did this one come from? Chinese singer Jane Zhang, whom I've never come across before, has bubbled within the top ten on the most downloaded songs on iTunes, currently sitting at #8.  With a kicking upbeat and dancey rhythm, sweet vocals, and a lil help from rapper/producer Timbaland, it's no wonder.  I'm loving it after just one listen.  Check out Dust My Shoulders Off...

Song of the Day - Garden - Emeli Sandé

Emile Sandé hasn't been around for too long, but she easily and quickly became a favorite of mine after just a few songs and then her 2012 debut album Our Version of Events cemented my love for her.  She's got her own unique style, with a sound that can fit into many a genre.  Her music is ethereal, melodic, bleusy, rhythmic and soulful and I am hard pressed to find a song of hers I do not like.  Well she's about to embark on sharing her second set of songs with us,  Long Live the Angels is due out on November 11th and here's a darkish, head bopping and somewhat infectious low to mid tempo gem from the album, featuring Jay Electronica and Áine Zion.  Check out Garden...  

Flashback Friday Song of the Day - Controversy - Natalia Kills

Drink the Kool-Aid

Don't drink the Kool-Aid

nytimes

Here's a flashback from 2013 and Brit bad girl singer Natalia Kills.  It's a hard-driving tune from her second studio album, Trouble, and though it was recorded more than three years ago, it totally fits our society today.  Nuff said!  Just listen...

Song of the Day - A-YO - Lady Gaga

Here's the latest song to be released from Gaga's Joanne, due out tomorrow, and it's an upbeat and catchy, country-twinged song.  She actually tweeted it to EDM hitmakers The Chainsmokers on Tuesday in response to a comment by the duo's Alex Pall, who had said in an interview that Gaga's first single from the album, Perfect Illusion, "well, sucks." 

#AYO @TheChainsmokers maybe u guys'll like this 1 better ️#NowPlaying Apple: http://smarturl.it/A-YO.ap Spotify: http://smarturl.it/A-YO.sp

Well, I like this one better, for sure!  Check out A-YO...

Song of the Day - Powerless (Say What You Want) - Nelly Furtado

This life is too short, to live it just for you

But when you feel so powerless, what are you gonna do

So say what you want

Say what you want

I love everything about Nelly Furtado's 2003 sophomore album Folklore, especially this little ditty, which I've always taken inspiration from whenever I feel the need to make my voice heard. Remember, no one is Powerless, and if you've got something to say, say what you want...as long as it's with civility.  

Song of the Day - You're Wondering Now - Amy Winehouse

I haven't listened to Amy Winehouse in like forever...well that is, until last night.  I put her on my iPod for my evening walk and I truly enjoyed the music of this tragically talented soul once again. When I got to this song, You're Wondering Now, I was reminded of the day she died.  I posted it on John's World the day she was laid to rest because I thought it was eerily fitting.  It's hard to believe it's been five years already since she passed, and though she has faded in a lot of memories, its good to know that all you have to do is reach for that Amy Winehouse button on the pod and relive some great music.  I hope she rests in peace!

Song of the Day - Diamonds - Rihanna

It's funny, one of my favorite artists to listen to when I'm sad is Rihanna.  Though she's more well-known as a dance artist, she's pretty adept at the melancholic, thoughtful song, too.  I've got a playlist in my iTunes of sad songs, and even though this one isn't really sad at all, it's very contemplative. Love, love love it...

Song of the Day - Hymn For the Weekend - Coldplay

I've never been on the Coldplay bandwagon before, but I was in the car with my pal Rich last night and when this song came on he immediately reached over to rais the volume.  Ooh, I love this song! he said as he began singing along.  You do? I replied, surprised a little, for I've never known him to be a Coldplay fan either.  And so we listened...I actually liked it.  It's got elements of dance in it, so yeah! The song was released in January of this year and it has uncredited vocals by none other than Beyoncé (that part rang a little familiar to me).  So anyway, check out Hymn For the Weekend...

Song of the Day - Don't Wanna Know - Maroon 5, feat. Kendrick Lamar

Maroon 5 is back with a brand new song that's kinda kitschy in a sort of bubble gum tropical pop song kind of way.  The tune, which dropped earlier this week, features a verse performed by hot R&B/rapper Kendrik Lamar, was somewhat of a surprise as not many saw it coming.  The Pokemon-Go themed vid made its debut yesterday and features several cameos .  I'm pretty sure I won't be downloading this one, but I am sure that Maroon 5 fans probably already have.  Check out Don't Wanna Know... 

Flashback Friday Song of the Day - Should I Stay or Should I Go - The Clash

I finally started watching the much heralded new sci-fi/horror series Stranger Things on Netflix yesterday and all I can say is wow, what a great show!  It's got a lil bit of early American Horror Story, mixed in with a lil Stand By Me, and a whole lot of suspense.  My friend Kyle and I blew through the first four episodes last night in no time and it's gonna kill me to wait until he and I get together again to finish the last four episodes.  If you've watched the show, which takes place in the early 80's and stars two well-known actors from that era, Winona Ryder and Matthew Modine, then you've certainly heard this tune in it, which was nicely incorporated into the storyline.  If you haven't, then I highly suggest you check out Stranger Things on Netflix, and soon.  In the meantime, enjoy this Clash classic...

Song of the Day - Body Moves - DNCE

I received an email alert about a new video released by pop/dance band DNCE, who had a huge hit this summer with the anthemic Cake by the Ocean. Since that one was such a smash I decided to check it out, and when I did, all anyone seems to be talking about in this vid is how Nick Jonas' brother Joe, the lead singer of DNCE, is showing a lot of skin.

Looks like chronic shirtlessness runs in the family. Out

You need a hot shower after watching DNCE's 'Body Moves' video. MTV

Watch DNCE have elevator sex n NSFW 'Body Moves' video. - Rolling Stone

Yes, well the video is a bit steamy, and of course it's very true that sex does sell (and garner clicks), but I'm going to let you decide for yourself what you think of the video and instead tell you that the song is much in the same vein as Cake, upbeat and pretty catchy.  So aside from all of the sexiness in this one, it looks as if we're going to have another hit-making Jonas brother become a household name.  Check out Body Moves... 

Song of the Day - Body Moves - DNCE

I received an email alert about a new video released by pop/dance band DNCE, who had a huge hit this summer with the anthemic Cake by the Ocean. Since that one was such a smash I decided to check it out, and when I did, all anyone seems to be talking about in this vid is how Nick Jonas' brother Joe, the lead singer of DNCE, is showing a lot of skin.

Looks like chronic shirtlessness runs in the family. Out

You need a hot shower after watching DNCE's 'Body Moves' video. MTV

Watch DNCE have elevator sex n NSFW 'Body Moves' video. - Rolling Stone

Yes, well the video is a bit steamy, and of course it's very true that sex does sell (and garner clicks), but I'm going to let you decide for yourself what you think of the video and instead tell you that the song is much in the same vein as Cake, upbeat and pretty catchy.  So aside from all of the sexiness in this one, it looks as if we're going to have another hit-making Jonas brother become a household name.  Check out Body Moves... 

Song of the Day - AIn't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera

Every once in awhle I turn to my Christina Aguilera playlist on my iPod and I still enjoy her music. Will she ever record again?  

Song of the Day - Love Me Now - John Legend

I don't know who's gonna kiss you when I'm gone

So I'm gonna love you now, like it's all I have

I know it'll kill me when it's over

I don't wanna think about it, I want you to love me now

Amidst all of the new music that's suddenly been dropping lot hotcakes comes a nice, upbeat tune from one John Legend.  The song, Love Me Now, is the debut single from the crooner's upcoming Darkness and Light album and it's a sweet and tender tune that I liked the first time I heard it.  Check it out.. 

Song of the Day - So Long - Slushii, feat. Madi

Here's a recent Spotify discovery by I believe a Florida based deejay/producer who calls himself Slushii.  The tune is dubbed 'future bass,' a genre which I've never heard of, but to me it's more like chill-dance, something in a similar vein to what Zedd might come out with.  The nice vocals are by a singer named Madi and the video is pretty cool.  Check out So Long...  

Song of the Day - Sit Still. Look Pretty - Daya

You've probably already been exposed to Pittsburgh native Daya either through her own 2015 smash, Hideaway, or her vocals on The Chainsmokers' intoxicating Don't Let Me Down.  Well, the talented singer/songwriter has just released her debut album, Sit Still, Look Pretty, and the title cut is pretty darned catchy.  Check it out... 

Song of the Day - 24K Magic - Bruno Mars

Bruno Mars is back with the debut single off of his brand new album coming to ears everywhere on November 18th.  The tune, or should I say jam, which is carries the same title as the album, is much of what Mars' music has become on his past few turns out and that's down-home funk that's nothing but fun.  I am sure this one's going to be another monster hit.  Check out 24K Magic...

Flashback Friday Song of the Day - Hey Hey - Dennis Ferrer

Just an ordinary day...

It's the start of a three-day weekend for many of us and I think we should get it started with one of my all time favorite club tunes.  This one's got a cool, steady percussive beat and some downright sexy and irresistible vocals. So yeah, let's get down...

Song of the Day - Starboy - The Weekend, feat. Daft Punk

Yep, Canadian singer/songwriter/rapper The Weekend, is a bona fide hit maker.  Back with an all new single from his upcoming third album of the same name, featuring production by electronic dance superstars Daft Punk, The Weekend has certainly picked up right where he left off on the smash Beauty Behind the Madness,  This funky, hypnotic tune is strong on the charts already, climbing towards the top at a quick pace just two weeks after its release.  Check out Starboy...

Song of the Day - Lightning - The Wanted

The immensely talented Alessia Cara played Radio City Music Hall last night in NYC in what turned out to be a great show, not only from the headliner, but the two opening acts, as well.  Up and comers Nathan Sykes, formerly of The Wanted, and Canadian singer/songwriter Ruth B both gave inspired performances in warming up the crowd for Cara.  Being a fan of The Wanted, I couldn't help but want to post one of their tunes today in favor of one of Sykes' new tracks from his forthcoming debut solo album, Unfinished Business.  I will get to that soon, I promise, but in the meantime sentimentality takes over and herein I present one of my favorite Wanted songs...  

Song of the Day - Scars to Your Beautiful - Alessia Cara

Alessia Cara.  Rising star.  Radio City Music Hall. Tonight. Yes!

Song of the Day - I Have Nothing - Whitney Houston

Share my life

Take me for what I am

'Cause I'll never change

All my colors for you

Take my love

I'll never ask for too much

Just all that you are

And everything that you do

I don't really need to look

Very much further

I don't want to have to go

Where you don't follow

I will hold it back again

This passion inside

Can't run from myself

There's nowhere to hide

I hit a couple of bars here in Philly last night, and one in particular is a very popular place.  Tavern on Camac is a very cool hotspot containing three floors of entertainment.  Down in the basement is a lounge for some relaxing and quiet conversation, the main floor s a piano bar, and the upstairs is an all-out dance club.  Being it was Sunday night, I didn't expect it to be crowded.  Sure the piano bar had people in it, but not as many as on a Saturday night.  After a few minutes, I decided to check out what was going on upstairs.

Don't make me close one more door

I don't want to hurt anymore

Stay in my arms if you dare

Or must I imagine you there

Don't walk away from me

I have nothing, nothing, nothing

If I don't have you, you, you, you, you

I headed up and already from the stairs I could hear a lot of activity.  I opened the door and, voila! This was where all of the people were.  I smiled, thinking that it was going to be a unexpectedly fun night of dancing.  I was wrong!  Turns out, it must've been torch song night.  When I had first walked in, some Spanish language ballad had been playing and everyone on the packed dance floor had just been standing around watching the video on the big screen above.  Then this came on.

Now, I have to preface this by saying that most of the clientele packing the place hadn't even been born yet when this song came out.  Yet they all knew not only every word, but every breath, every syllable.  I couldn't, lol,  As Whitney got to the chorus...Oh My God....40-50 or so twenty-something queens belting it out!  I was amused, and so today's song.  Once that had ended, Idina Menzel's Let It Go came on and that was it for me.  You all know, I'm more of a dance kind of guy anyway...

Song of the Day - Come Get It BAE - Pharrell Williams, feat. Miley Cyrus

I had totally forgotten about this fun, funky tune until I heard it last night at a club.  Too bad it never became a big hit for Pharrell because it is really fun.  Check out Come Get It BAE... 

Song of the Day - Mercy - Shawn Mendes

The latest single from Shawn Mendes' new sophomore album is a big and powerful ballad that's full of soul.  Watching this young man perform and listening to his lyrics makes it hard to believe he's just a teenager at 18, because even though his talent is incredible, he carries himself like a seasoned performer and the themes of his tunes are very much adult.  That being said, Mercy, both the song and the video, shows all of the above.  Note: Be wary of this video if you have any kind of fear of water or claustrophobia or both...