The Megamixes

Last month I posted the official Spice Girls and Aqua Megamixes and it got me going through some other megamixes I love. So today you're getting a MASSIVE CHRISTMAS PRESENT! Throughout the month you're all going to be getting little treats and this is the first one!

So today you're going to get the best of the best... the short and sweet of some great acts.

Let's begin:

Ace Of Base - Megamix

Sugababes - Megamix

Roxette - The Rox Medley

Blue - Best Of Blue Medley

Rogue Traders - Here Come The Drums (Megamix)

Girls Aloud - Megamix

Barbados - Soundfactory Megamix 2000

Britney Spears - Greatest Hits Megamix

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5ive - Greatest Hits Megamix

So Damaged Because Of You...

So I gave in and listened to Shayne Wards new album 'Breathless.' After two horrid songs were released I had basically given up on Mr. Ward. After a fantastic debut album, even though it was full of sappy, dramatic ballads; I felt like Shayne had given it all up in an effort to be more 'cool.'

But a friend basically forced me to listen to it and although I don't like the album nearly as much as his first... there are acouple songs that I really did enjoy. In addition to the song I'm posting below... if you are a fan of his slow stuff you should check out the title track - Breathless. It showcases his vocal abilities nicely :)

Shayne Ward - Damaged
Is it just me or do the lyrics to this song not really match the music?! The music sounds like it should be an upbeat summer hit... but the lyrics belong in a deep and soulful ballad? I'd love someone to cover this track as a ballad. Either way the song is great and I admit I've played it on repeat all day.

If Only You Could See He's Just Like You...

* I fixed the link to the 2nd song.

Ok... let me just say before you pre-judge these songs when you see who they're by... make sure you at least give them a chance. I never would have thought that I would be buying albums from an Ex-New Kid on the Block... but Joey McIntryre has released a handfull of really great solo albums of the past few years, 5 of them to be exact!

He kicked off his solo career back in 1999 with a pop album on a major record label and initially had some moderate success with his first two singles in the US. His debut single 'Stay The Same' hit #10 and went gold! But after things slowed down he parted ways with his major record label and since then has been recording music on his own.

Here are some of my favorite Joey McIntyre songs:

Joey McIntyre - Rain

The first single from his 2nd album... this song has to go down in history as one of my favorite ballads. I turly feel that this song could be a massive hit single if it was sung by another artist. Don't you think?

Joey McIntyre - Mrs. Callahan

Something about this song really gets to me for some reason.

Hyped Up & Psyched Up!

The german band 'Band Ohne Namen'(Band Without Name in English) or better known as B.O.N. had their first hit single back in 2000 with the track 'Boys.' Originally the song featured German lyrics with an English chorus... but when the track became a hit in Germany it was re-recorded with English vocals.

The single went on to chart in many European countries but none of their future singles managed to make an impact on the charts. The band split up back in 2004 after recording 2 original albums.

B.O.N. - Boys
A track that urges the opposite sex to "Think about the way that you treat a boy... you shouldn't treat him like a toy."

B.O.N. - Boys (Almighty Full On Vocal Mix)
This remix has to be one of the best remixes of all time. It's really hard hitting and it perfect when you're in a mood to dance. It's one of those rare remixes that is even better than the original version.

Video Of The Year?

Wow... you already know how I feel about the song... but now the video takes it to a whole new level...

Check out the video for Sugababes new single 'Change.'

Too Many Days... I've Hidden From The Sun...

So I know I've posted about Celine Dion a lot lately... but I can't help it. I'm secretly (or maybe not such a secret anymore) a MASSIVE Celine Dion fan. Acouple years ago I flew to Las Vegas specifically to see her show. I even got to take a tour backstage because I was screaming so loud someone from the show came up to me after and told me they could tell I was a big fan and they wanted to take me back for a tour!

Well now her new english album has been released worldwide... her final show in Las Vegas is Dec. 15th... The DVD will be released in December... and in February 2008 she begins a year long worldwide tour which I JUST got tickets for October 20th 2008 in Vancouver, Canada.

Celine Dion - Shadow Of Love
There are so many songs I could have posted from the album, 'Eyes On Me' is one of my other favorite tracks co-written by Delta Goodrem. After much deliberation I decided to post this track instead. It's a real thumper... makes you want to get up and clap along... I'm really looking forward to seeing her sing it live on tour.

If you're considering buying the new album... stop considering... go out and get it today!

Give Me Dr. Sun... He's My Man

Hey Guys,

So if there's one thing I don't really post about much... it's myself! But I promised to show you guys some pictures from my trip to Mexico so today you're going to get your first look at... ME!

There I am coming out of the airport!

Me and a Cactus!

We went to this beach which was AMAZING. There was no one around... the water was blue and crystal clear... you could walk out into the ocean for ages and it never went higher than your waist... you could see fish swimming around underneath you!

My Grandma and I!

It was a very relaxing trip and now it's back to reality and back to work.

As you all know my next trip will be March 2nd when I head to London England for a few days and then fly on to Sweden for Melodifestivalen 2008! Rumour has it the first batch of artists will be revealed as soon as next week!

Speculation continues about who the 4 wilcards will be this year. One name that floats around every year is Ace of Base. In the past the band has strongly denied that they would ever enter the competition.

Ace of Base are currently on tour in Europe and are preparing for a world tour as part of a festival in 2008!

So to tie this post together here's one of my favorite Ace of Base songs which fit in perfectly with my trip to Mexico!

Ace of Base - Dr. Sun

I Want To Hold Your Hand

As a fan of pop music and a human being I've always known and been aware of 'The Beatles.' Few acts have made as big of an impact on popular music as 'The Beatles.'

Personally I had never given their songs much notice. I probably learnt most of their songs after Take That did a Beatles Medley on their tour. Songs like "Hey Jude" and "Yesterday" were among my favorite Beatles tracks, although I had never purchased any of them or really sat down and listened to any of their albums.

But every day a new generation is introduced to the music and the legacy that the Beatles left behind. Earlier this month I went to see a film called 'Across The Universe.' The general idea is that the movie is set to a soundtrack of Beatles songs.

I won't bother reviewing the movie itself, which I would rate at about 3/5 but the soundtrack is something that needs to be recognized!

The actors in the movie sing all their own parts and all of the songs are included on the soundtrack. One of the best tracks has to be Teresa Victoria Carpio's rendition of 'I Want To Hold Your Hand.'

T.V. Carpio - I Want To Hold Your Hand

The track is immensely catchy; I've been singing it all day!

Jumping On The Bandwagon!

It's official... Boyzone are back!

Ronan Keating claims that a Boyzone reunion was in the works long before Take That and The SPice Girls re-formed, but I find that a little hard to believe.

There has been talk of a Boyzone reunion ever since the band last performed together in 2000. But I think once they saw the massive success Take That and The Spice Girls have had, the band decided it was time to make things happen.

Just like the Take That reunion, so far Boyzone has not confirmed that they will record a new album. But if tickets to the tour sell as fast as they're expected, I bet we'll have a new Boyzone album within the next year.

For the record I was a Boyzone fan... they had some fantastic songs throughout their career. Im seriously considering a trip to the Uk in June to see them, although I don't think my wallet is going to allow for that after my Melodifestivalen trip in March!

When I get back from Mexico I'll be sure to post a bunch of Boyzone songs for those of you that missed out on the Boyzone craze in the 90's!

Troy - Posting From Mexico

STOP!

Going through some of my old cd's I came across the single for this pop gem.

It's from a time when the entire world was singing along to pop music. I remember being so excited when I saw the video to this song for the first time. The Stop remix was different to the album track so I had to buy the single to get this version!

My how things have changed! I prefer to remember her from times like this...

Britney Spears - Crazy (The Stop Remix)

I Tried But She Cries...

Today I introduce you to one of Denmarks most successful boybands - C21.

They formed back in 1998 and had their debut hit in 2002. Proving that they were more than just a typical boyband they wrote and produced most of their debut album themselves and performed live acoustic sets all across the country to prove that they weren't just another bunch of cute guys who could sing. The hard work paid off and their debut album spawned 4 hit singles in Denmark.

In 2004 the band released a second album but there was only one single relased from it. There were rumours of a third album but that seems unlikely as band member Soren Bregendal released his debut solo album earlier this year.

So here are some tracks from their debut album - C21. Enjoy :)

C21 - She Cries

C21 - You Are The One

C21 - Don't Wanna Lose You

I posed this song back in February for my Valentines post... I'm re-posting it because it's one of my favorite boyband ballads. I love the guitar and how the vocals build up as it goes along.

*FIXED LAST LINK

Got To Be Strong... Believe In Your Power

HERE THEY ARE!

If you're like me then you were slightly dissapointed by the new Spice Girls single - Headlines.

Although the more I hear it and seeing the video, it isn't as bad as I first though.

All that has changed with the leak of their second new song from their Greatest Hits album - Voodoo!

This is everything you could ever want from the Spice Girls. It's 'THEM' but with a slightly more modern sound. Ugh... I've played it about 15 times in a row and I still can't get enough!

What do you think?

Spice Girls - Voodoo

Random Post From Nowhere

So I'm just going through my old mp3's and found some old catchy songs that I figured I would post.

Most of these are random tracks and I wouldn't say they're worth of their own posting... so instead I'll post a mini collection of them for you to check out!

Alexia - Don't You Know
Alexia is a euro-dance singer from Italy who has actually released 9 albums in the last 10 years! She had a few international hits with tracks like 'Uh La La La' and 'The Music I Like.' In 2002 she abandonded euro-dance and since then records only in Italian.

Anieki - Pleased To Meet You
This Australian band had a massive hit in 2001 with this track. It was the most played song in Australia in 2001! The band was formed by Savage Gardens Daniel Jones in 1998.

Dario G - Heaven Is Closer
English dance act Dario G have produced some of the most popular sporting events trackof the last decade. Between 2001 - 2003 the group produced a handful of radio friendly tracks with female vocalist - Vanessa Quinones. I've always loved tracks by Dario G, they're really bright and full of different sounds and a lot of feeling.

Kim Wilde - Born To Be Wild
So Kim probably deserves to have her own post on here but since I can't be bothered you'll have to settle for this track which is one of my faves btw! Kim Wilde released her debut album in 1980 when she was only 20 years old! Kim Wilde had a hit as recent as last year when she made a comeback with a remake of her previous hit - You Came.

2 Small Dj's - Shining For Love
This euro pop track samples Cyndi Laupers 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.' That alone is reason enough to download this track.

Jake - Brighter
I don't remember much about this band. From what I remember they were Canadian. They had acouple top 40 pop hits before changing their sound a bit with their 2nd album. 'Brighter' was the first single from their second album.

Isabel - Will My Heart Survive
Isabel - Like Snow In June (Dance Mix)
From what I understand Isabel took a shot at Eurovision for Germany in 2002. After that she had a handful of hits with 'Will My Heart Survive' and 'Snow In June.'

The wait is over! I've been meaning to write about this band for a LONG LONG time! For some reason I've always passed them over. But I'm finally putting Da Buzz in the spotlight.

Da Buz have to be one of my ALL TIME favorite Swedish artists. They write and produce their own material. They've released 7 albums which is a massive achievement for a pop act. What's even better is that each album is even more amazing than the last.

Da Buzz debuted back in in Sweden back in 1999 with their debut single 'Paradise' which had moderate success considering they were a new act. Their next two singles debuted in the top 10 and established that Da Buzz were not just a one hit wonder. In 2000 their single 'Let Me Love You' was remixed by Hex Hector in the US and went on to become an international dance smash single around the world.

It wasn't until their 3rd album and their 8th single in 2003 that Da Buzz finally had their first number 1 with 'Alive.' A feat they repeated in 2006 with 'Last Goodbye' in 2006.

I'm actually really suprised that they've been around as long as they have. I keep expecting to hear that they've split up or been dropped by their record label. Earlier this month they released their first Greatest Hits album. What I love most about Da Buzz is that some of their best songs have never even been released as singles!

So if you don't know Da Buzz this is your chance to educate yourself on one of the best pop acts of the last 7 years! Below are some of my favorite album tracks. If you like these please purchase their Greatest Hits album HERE.

Da Buzz - Let Me Love You (2000)

Da Buzz - This Night I'm In Love (2002)

Da Buzz - Sorry Baby (2002)

Da Buzz - How Could You Leave Me (2004)

Da Buzz - Cause I Need Your Love (2003)

Da Buzz - World For Two (2006)

Da Buzz - Stuck (2004)

Da Buzz - Waiting For Me (2004)

Da Buzz - Alive (2003)

Da Buzz - Can't Give Up For Love (2004)

You Tubing!

So I'm getting back into Melodifestivalen mode. For those of you who haven't heard, the first 28 artists will be anounced on Nov. 27th. So I've been surfing youtube tonight and found acouple gems!

Anyone who read my blog through M'fest this yaer knows I was a HUGE fan of Sanna Nielsen. So as you can imagine I'm thrilled that she is rumoured to be entering again this year. I've also heard rumblings that she may enter as a trio with Shirley Clamp and Sonja Alden! Although I'm worried that would mean another power ballad. As much as I'd love it... I think they would make such an awesome Schlager Mega Act!

So until the 27th when we find out for sure, here is a clip of the three of them doing a medley of their solo hits.



I posted this track back in the Spring and just found this clip of her performing it live on Swedish television.



Bonus:
It's been 7 months and I still can't stop playing these songs!

Sonja Alden - For Att Du Finns (Acoustic Version)

Let's Fight For Love Again...

The reunions just keep on coming and coming...

On Friday afternoon one of the most successful European pop acts of all time is adding themselves to the list.

The seeds of the band were planed back in 1989! But it wasn't until 1993 that Soren, Claus and Rene discovered Lene Nystrom and a single was released in Sweden under the name 'Joyspeed.' The single was a flop and the band parted ways with their record label, fired their manager and set out to re-develop their sound by focusing on European Bubblegum Pop. In 1996 the band was offered a record deal with 'Universal' and the rest is history. The band entered what Aqua fans fondly refer to as the 'Aquarium Age.' A total of 8 singles were released in various territories around the world. The band had massive success across the globe during this period. The band ended up being most popular right here in Canada! Their debut album went 9 times platinum... more than any other country in the world!

When the second album was released in 1999 off the back of 'Cartoon Heros' it seemed that things had cooled off for the band. Although the album wasn't as big as their first... it did sell well across the globe and spawned 5 hit singles in various countries around the world.

In 2001 the band had begun working on a 3rd album when the pressure became too much. Rumours swarmed that a rift had begun in the band, Lene collapsed on stage during a tour and in July the band announced the split. Their official website closed down with a simple message:

"Good-bye To The Circus...We Hope You Enjoyed The Show" and a message that said... "We'll Be Back."

Almost 7 years later they're making good on that promise. The band has just promised a European tour of at least 25 dates and commited to a Greatest Hits album with some new singles as well.

The official announcement is expected at a press conference on Friday Oct. 26th!

I hope I'm not the only one excited about this?! I used to LOVE Aqua! I had the books, the videos, the cd's and the bubblegum!

So let's go back in time and enjoy a megamix from the "Aquarius Age"

Aqua - Official Megamix (Aquarius Age)

I really wanna post some of their other songs now too... but maybe I'll leave them for another day?

How about my favorite video of all time? Bumble Bees!

Love Is What You Make Of It...

Today is a beautiful sunny day for once here in Vancouver, Canada. It's the perfect day for cheesy bubblegum pop if you ask me. These tracks have been around for ages now... but if you don't have them this is the perfect chance to get some new tracks. WARNING - The following songs are extremely cheesy.

iDream - Don't Steal Our Sunshine

Anyone remember a band called 'S Club 7?' Back in 2001 S Club 7 created a television show 'S Club Search' where they would form a new band to be their support act on their Wembley Date of their Carnival tour. After the success of that concert 19 management decided the group would continue to support S Club 7 for the entire tour and were dubbed 'S Club Juniors.'

It wasn't long before the band had their own fans and were signed to Polydor records. The band had massive success with their first 3 singles all entering the charts at #2! After the success of their debut album the band went on a joint tour with S Club called: S Club United!

During the United tour it was announced that S Club would be splitting up. S Club Juniors management decided they would re-label the band 'S Club 8.' The band began to promote their new mature image and sound as S Club 8.

Unfortunately the public seemed to have had an S Club overload. The singles from their 2nd album failed to sell as well as the first. Their 2nd album failed to light up the charts.

Due to the perceived failure of their 2nd album their management company decided to make some radical changes to the band. A new television show was created and the band were added to the show as the main cast. In addition to S Club 8, 5 other actors were added to the show which was titled iDream.

But as the single and album from iDream were released it was clear that fans had lost touch with the act. The single debuted at #19 and the album entered the charts at #133.

I've always considered the demise of S Club 8 a result of poor management. Fortunately the band produced some ace pop tracks that will go down in pop history.

allSTARS* - Love Is

The allSTARS* had a handful of hit singles and an album in the Uk back in 2001. The group had a childrens television show called 'StarStreet.' The band released 4 singles in the Uk and seemed to be gaining momentum with every release. Their debut single peaked at #20 and their further singles reached #12, then #9! The band then released their final single and it stalled at #19. When the album failed to live up to sales expectations spending only 2 weeks in the top 75 they were dropped by their record label.

The track 'Love Is' was rumoured to be their 5th single from the album before they were dropped. It is a classic pop gem that will have you singing along in no time.

All The Lonley The Bad, All The Mad, All The Sad...

SORRY!

First off I have amazing news... IM GOING TO MELODIFESTIVALEN IN STOCKHOLM!

If anyone is planning a trip to Sweden this March and is interested in meeting up shoot me an e-mail: lanocty@hotmail.com

My apologies to everyone for neglecting my blog this last week.

The bad news is that I'm going to be out of town for the next 3 days... so you'll have to wait a bit longer for new stuff.

The good news is that I'm going to leave you with two new songs until I get back!

Girls Aloud - Call The Shots

As I told you before his album is AMAZING! This is one of his poppier songs.

Darren Hayes - Listen All You People

Things Aint Never Gonna Be The Same Again

New Music Monday

I have just dicovered the best song EVER!

I don't care if you have never liked the Sugababes before... this song is a MUST download.

I wrote that the Sugababes were releasing a new album and that moment has arrived. The album is definitely one of the top 5 released this year.

The most impressive song has to be 'Change.' Maybe it's because I relate so well to the song, but something tells me you will all appreciate it as well.

The song is big, epic and dramatic sounding without being over the top. The girls voices fit together so well. The song sends shivers down my spine, it's THAT GOOD!

It's everything you could ever want from a modern pop song.

Do you agree?

Sugababes - Change

P.S. Happy Thanksgiving from Vancouver, Canada!

P.P.S: I want to dedicate this post to my friend PopPosterGirl... You're in all of our thoughts.

If You Gave Me Your Love...

A track from his new album... suits my mood at the minute.

Ola - If You Gave Me Your Love

If you haven't ordered your copy yet, what are you waiting for? S.O.S alone is worth the price to ship it!

Music Is My Life You See...

Sophie Ellis-Bextor is unique in every sense of the word. Her voice isn't like anyone else. The first time I saw her I thought she looked sort of like a porcelain doll. Which she obviously capitalized on her video 'Get Over You' where she plays a manequin come to life! (A video you HAVE to see!)

Her music is unique as well, being a mix of pop, disco and 80's electronic music. her music career began as part of an indie band back in the late 90's. Then Sophie got her big break. In 2000 she sang lead vocals for Italian Dj - Spillers hit single 'Groovejet' which ended up going #1 in the Uk.

Success came fast from there. Her debut album was released in 2001. In 2002 she had the most played song in Europe for the entire year with 'Murder on the Dancefloor.'

Despite 2 hit singles from her second album, the album was seen as a commercial failure and Sophie ended up taking a hiatus to give birth to her son.

Loyal fans were rewarded for their patience earlier this year when Sophie released her AMAZING 3rd album 'Trip The Light Fantastic.' Despite the fact that she hasn't been able to replicate her early success the music is just as good as it was before. Her latest single 'Today The Sun's On Us' was received very well by critics across the globe.

Currenltly Sophie is touring with Take That and will be releasing a Greatest Hits album November 19th.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor - Music Gets The Best Of Me

Sophie Ellis-Bextor - If You Go

While I'm at it... here's the video I mentioned.

One Hit Wonders

Sometimes an artist appears out of nowhere with a song that is simply amazing. The problem? No one had ever heard of them before and then they dissapear just as fast as they appeared.

Such is the case with this AMAZING pop gem!

It's sort of ironic that her official biography states that "Ruby's debut album is more than just a one minute wonder." Boy did they get that wrong. Her debut single peaked at number 32 in the Uk.

Depsite the fact that there probably aren't many people out there that even remember this girl... this song is amazing and deserves it's place in pop music history.

Ruby Amanfu - Sugah

Don't You Care... I Don't Think It's Fair

You may have heard that earlier this year Pandora cried foul when she realised the Uk entry 'Flying The Flag' was a blatant rip off of one of her singles 'No Regrets.'

Pandora has been around since 1993! She's had quite a bit of success around the world. One of her most famous songs was actually covered by someone else you may have heard of... Kylie Minogue - A Night Like This.

This year Pandora has teamed up with United DJ's who have re-done some of her early singles. So far they have re-done 3 of her songs and it looks like an album will be released with a collection of her old hits re-done with United DJ's.

Don't You Know was originally released back in 1995. Here is the 2007 version with United DJ's.

United DJ's vs Pandora - Dont You Know (SoundCruisers Radio Mix)

Hey Juliet! (A Guilty Pleasure)

Ok So I'm not even going to bother writing a real profile about this band.

Frankly I'm embarassed to even be posting about them.

Despite the fact that they never got anywhere other than radio Disney in the USA their debut album has some pretty catchy songs. Do any of you remember the reality TV band 'O-Town?' LMNT is basically made up of a bunch of guys that weren't good enough to make it into O-Town.

So don't ask any questions about who they are... it you like a catchy and cheesy boy band tune then you'll probably like this. I'm going to have to redeem myself by posting something REALLY good after this!

LMNT - Juliet

LMNT - Running Home

March 15th... The Countdown Begins.

On October 5th tickets for Melodifestivalen 2008 go on sale. I took the trip from Canada to London to pick up some cd's and catch a performance at G-A-Y, from there I flew to Stockholm for the first time ever to watch as some of the biggest names in Pop music fought for a chance to represent Sweden at Eurovision.

After careful consideration I've decided to do it all over again! Cross your fingers on Oct. 5th as I try to get better tickets than I got last year!

If you're planning on making the trek to Stockholm this year I'd love to hear from you... shoot me an e-mail - lanocty@hotmail.com

The rumours are already flying fast about who will be there... Danny, Linda Bengtzing, BWO, Carola, Helena Paparizou, the new Alcazar? In less than 3 months some of these questions will be answered!

I'm Sending You An S.O.S!

Ola Svensson

It's not a cover... It's ANOTHER song called S.O.S!

This is what pop music is all about! Ola Svensson is already setting the swedish charts on fire with his new single S.O.S!

Ola is about to release his new album this fall and if you are a pop fan this is one album you'll have to check out. Rumour has it that this album isn't filled with filler ballads and of coarse it will include his single 'Natalie' that was a smash hit earlier this summer. To be honest I wasn't all that impressed with him at first... but he's really impressed me lately and I think I'm a huge Ola fan now.

Ola - S.O.S

Purchase the single and his new album 'Good Enough' - Here

New Music Monday!

It's that special time of the week again... NEW MUSIC MONDAY!

Today's the day you get a bunch of new tunes to preview all week and have your say as to which was the best! Last week the majority spoke and said that Leona Lewis was the best with her new single 'Bleeding Heart.'

Take That - Rule The World

If you haven't seen the movie 'Stardust' yet you need to go see what you're missing. This is by far one of the best movies released this year! It has everything a movie should have, great acting, adventure, humour and romance. Take That have recorded the theme song which strangely enough isn't even on the soundtrack. I first heard the song when I saw the movie in the theater. I stayed in my seat through the credits so I could hear the song and boy Take That did not dissapoint. This song will be their new single in the Uk when it is released at the end of October. Smells like another number 1 for Take That

McFly - The Heart Never Lies

When McFly hit the scene back in 2004 I brushed them off saying they were just a cheap version of 'Busted.' But with every single and every album McFly shows that they are here to stay and are doing their own thing. Their songs are supremely catchy and combine the best of pop and rock to create their hit singles. This new one has to be one of their best yet! I'm VERY impressed. This is definitely an album I'm going to buy. The only album I ever bought from the boys was 'Wonderland' which is fantastic if you haven't heard it yet. I actually have an old song from McFly that I LOVE, maybe I should do a McFly post?

Alizee - Mademoiselle Juliette

2 weeks ago I posted 50/60 from Alizee thinking this was her new single. Well her record label has just released a press release stating that Mademoiselle Juliette is going to be the first single from her 3rd album. This is her first album since parting ways with Mylenne Farmer and her old record label. The song isn't bad... but she should have stayed with Mylenne if you ask me.

Spice Girls - Official Megamix

If I didn't know any better I wouldn't even know that the Spice Girls are back together! Since announcing their reunion things have been quiet from the Spice Camp. Melanie C is releasing a new single in the Uk, Melanie B is on 'Dancing With The Stars' in the USA, Baby Spice had her baby and through it all the girls are going to be starting to rehearse for their world tour very soon. Speaking of which ticket information STILL hasn't been released. Rumour has it that an announcement will be made by October 1st. They had better hurry up. The tour kicks off in Vancouver (My Home!) on December 2nd!

Remember if you like what you hear... support the artists... all of these albums and singles can be purchased online and shipped internationally.

The Men Of Sweden

So I've been sitting on some of these songs since I went to Sweden earlier this year and I'm finally gonna put them on here. I've already posted about some of the best Men of Sweden already... artists like Martin Stenmark, The Attic, Erik Segerstedt, Ola, Danny, marcus Fagerval, Magnus Carlsson, Mathais Holmgren, Ander Johansson and more... Here are some of the other "Men of Sweden" for you to enjoy :)

Sebastian - Words and Violence

Most of you will know what I'm talking about when I mention Melodifestivalen. Earlier this year Sebastian took part in the competition and made it all the way to the finals with 'When The Night Comes Falling.' He was a runner up in Swedish Idol in 2006 losing out to Agnes. He's released 2 albums and both of them have been immensely successful in Sweden going Gold with sales of over 30'000 copies. 'Words & Violence' was his first single from his second album, before he entered Melodifestivalen. It peaked at number 3 in the singles chart.

Jimmy Jansson - Overallt

Jimmy Jansson - Kan Nagon Saga Mej Varfor

Jimmy Jansson has a long past with Melodifestivalen. having entered back in 2002 with his band 'The Poets.' After the band broke up Jimmy went solo in 2004 after entering the TV show 'Fame Factory.' Since then he's released 3 solo albums and competed in Melodifestivalen 2 more times in 2005 and earlier this year with his single 'Amanda.' To date he's released 7 top 40 singles in Sweden. He has to be one of my favorite Swedish male acts his albums are FANTASTIC. I reccomend you pick up his latest album 'San E Jag.'

Ville Niskanen - Disco Dancing

So I don't know much about this guy. From what I can find out he was a contestant on Swedish Idol. When I told my Swedish friend that I bought his single he laughed at me. So from what I can tell this guy is really just a joke... think William Hung? The song is catchy though... so think of it as a guilty pleasure. His music reminds me of Danny for some reason. BTW. I keep mixing up Danny and Ola! It's driving me crazy.

Magnus Backlund - Say Your Goodbye

The 2nd half of the AMAZING 'Fame' that every good blog on the web has posted about. While Magnus backlund doesn't have the charisma of Jessica Andersson he has at least delivered a solo album! It seems like there is definitely a public demand for the return of 'Fame.' So we can only hope that Jessica will agree to it, I'm sure she's the one that is holding out. Magnus and Jessica met while filming Fame Factory, the show that Magnus won! In 2006 Magnus entered Melodifestivalen solo with 'The Name Of Love.'

I still have more Swedish "Men" to write about but you'll have to wait until another time for them.

It's Too Late To Apologize...

I never would have thought that I would ever in my life be posting a Timbaland song on my blog... and yet here we are. Sure he's done some good songs for other artists... but I never had any interest in listening to anything by him before.

My friend sent this to me last night and said I 'HAD' to hear this song. As soon as I saw Timbaland I rolled my eyes. But after the first 30 seconds I was singing a different tune.

This song is really really good! It's not in your face R & B. It's just good, pop, modern and funky sounding ballad.

Whether he's producing music for others or himself, Timbaland definitely seems to have the midas touch.

Timbaland - Apologize (Feat. One Republic)

Nar Karleken Fods

So all of my favorite blogs out there have taken time to post about the brilliance that is Shirley Clamp. So I'm sure everyone has these tracks now... but I've always wanted to post about Shirley... so now it's my turn!

For a time Shirley was the queen of Schlager! But recently she seems to have turned her back on glitter and wind machines and opted instead to release a bunch of sappy ballads.

I have a feeling that Shirley still has some Schlager left in her and that we'll be hearing it in good time.

But I also say that as great as she is at the stompin' schlager hits... she sure can deliver a power ballad! So today you get the best of both worlds... (Arliga Bla is one of my all time favorite songs BTW)

Ballad Shirley:

Shirley Clamp - Nar Karleken Fods

Shirley Clamp - En Ny Chans

Schlager Shirley:

Shirley Clamp - Arliga Bla

Shirley Clamp - Eviga Langtan (Evig Club Mix)

New Music Monday

New Music Monday is here! Here are 3 new singles for you to evaluate... leave your opinions by Voting in the poll on the right!

Helena Paparizou - 3 Is A Magic Number

Last month I posted about Helena and how shocked I am that she hasn't had more international success. She's released some AMAZING singles and has a great voice and stage presence! So when I saw that she had a new single I couldn't wait to hear it! Now that I've heard it I honestly don't know what to think. At first listen I thought it had to be a joke. But I've been listening to it a bit more and as weird as it is... it's actually sorta cool! Definitely unique! What do you think?

Leona Lewis - Bleeding Heart

Leona Lewis won last seasons X-Factor in the Uk and after her debut single she went into seclusion to record her debut album in the USA. They've held back until they were ready to launch her new single and album. This is her first single from the album and It's not bad although it sounds a little dated? Like the kind of song you would have listened to back in 1995? It's good... but not the kind of single to launch an international career from. It's a pretty song from a girl with a pretty voice... But I can't help but think she's a little overrated.

Westlife - Home

The biggest dissapointment of all is the new single from Westlife. One of my all time favorite bands suprises no one by releasing ANOTHER cover. Now I really don't mind covers! But Westlife have really taken it too far this time. First off they've destroyed Michael Buble's version of this track and dumbed it down and turned it into a predictable single with the same old tired Westlife format. I don't even know what to say right now. Let's home the album is MUCH better than this disgusting excuse for a new single. I'm actually quite mad after hearing this song... I need to go listen to 'My Love.' You shouldn't cover a song unless you can make it better... and in this case they get an 'F.' So just to make up for it... here is the ORIGINAL!

Michael Buble - Home

HILARIOUS

Watch as Tyra Banks gives Birtney Spears a piece of her mind...

Get Up And Dance!

Have you ever downloaded a song and never actually listened to it? I was going through my computer yesterday and discovered I had downloaded some Gina G songs from her 2006 album and never actually listened to them! I was pretty suprised when I added them to my iPod and discovered they were actually pretty good!

Australian born, Gina G hit the big time back in 2006 when she was selected to represent the United Kingdom at the 1996 Eurovision Song Contest. Despite only placing 8th overall at Eurovision the track ended up at #1 in the Uk. The song then exploded around the world even reaching #12 in the USA.

Despite a successful debut album and multiple singles Gina G dissapeared from the spotlight. It wasn't until 2005 that Gina G was back in the spotlight as she entered "Making Your Mind Up" in the Uk. Although she didn't get the chance to go to Eurovision again she used the appearance to launch her new album - "Get Up And Dance" which was available exlusively from her website.

Currently Gina G has put her career on hold as she is pregnant with her second child... but since most people didn't even know she had released a 2nd album... you can download some of my favorite tracks from it below.

Gina G - Shock To My System

Gina G - Heaven

WORLD PREMIERE - What Do You Say To Taking Chances...

So Britney may have blown her comeback... but Celine Dion is ON FIRE!

Her new single - Taking Chances has just made it's world premiere on Amazon.com and it is the best song she's done in a long time.

People are always making fun of her and taking the piss... but after almost 4 years Celine Dion is finally finished in Las Vegas and is about to release her brand new english album on November 13th.

DOWNLOAD: Celine Dion - Taking Chances

WATCH AN EXCLUSIVE IN STUDIO VIDEO HERE

The End Of The Road...

On December 26th 2001, one of the most successful acts in Uk Pop History announced that they were calling it a day. They are one of the few bands who can truly say that they went out on top.

Their Greatest Hits album had gone number one and they had just finished their massive Greatest Hits tour across the Uk.

Despite only hitting number 1 twice in the Uk, Steps hold a number of records in the Uk. In fact they had 14 conecutive top 5 hits. An accomplishment only beat by the Beatles and Oasis. Their debut single '5, 6, 7, 8' holds a record for being one of the highest selling singles ever NOT to hit the top ten! In 2000 Steps received a special BRIT award for being the Best Selling British Live Act. In fact Steps were one of the biggest touring acts the Uk has ever seen and even hold a Guiness World Record to prove it.

It's been almost 6 years since Steps split up. With the trend of bands re-forming today many fans have asked if Steps are planning to reunite any time soon. Most recently Fave has spoken about the rumours and confirmed that the five of them have been approached to do a reunion. Unfortunately for fans like myself she says that each of them are busy with their own projects and that the time isn't right.

It seems even though 6 years have passed the fans still can;t get enough of their infectious singles and dance routines. Recently I held a poll - The Battle of The B-Sides. It turned out it wasn't much of a battle at all as you voted Steps - Just Like The First Time as the overwhelming winner!

So I'd like everyone to pull out your old singles... go through your mp3 list... practice your dance routines while you play some Steps and remember the good times.

"...You Put One Finger In The Air... And It's One For Sorrow... And It's Too Too Bad!"

Below you'll find some of the more rare yet AMAZING Steps songs and one of my all time faves - Chain Reaction. Enjoy.

Steps - Mars & Venus

Steps - Too Busy Thinkin' Bout My Baby

Steps - Tragedy (Live At Showtime At The Stadium)

Steps - Human Touch

Steps - Chain Reaction

On and On Your Voice Is Calling...

How would you feel... if one day you were approached by a producer who said he wanted to help you record a single that he thought could be an international hit single?

You record the song and the producer insists on recording a trance inspired dance version of the song. You finally give in and agree but only if you can also record a ballad piano version of the track as well.

So you record the track and before you know it's being released across the world, hitting number 1 in countries all over the globe. But even though you're singing lead vocals... your name is nowhere to be found on the song. Everywhere you go to promote the song people are asking who you are. Even in the video your face is blurred out.

Can't believe it would happen? It did and you probably know the song I'm talking about even if you don't know the singer.

The song is Heaven. The artist credited? Dj Sammy and Yanou. After the initial release of the track the labels were changed in some countries to ensure that Do was added as the lead vocalist. But the damage was already done... she was constantly asked if she was 'Dj Sammy.'

The real talent behind the song was the singer 'Do' (pronounced Doe) She's a dutch singer who has released two successful albums in Holland and had a string of hit singles.

I posted a song of hers for my Valentines post earlier this year and I'm following it up with another of her early singles.

If anyone knows anything more about her I'd love to know a bit more and pehaps get my hands on some of her songs.

Do - On and On (Piano Version)

Do Feat. Yanou - On and On (Dance Version)

Below you can watch Do sing an AMAZING version of 'Heaven' live with Westlife at the TMF Awards.

New Music Monday

So I'm going to make this short and sweet today...

The artists I'm about to post have given me some of my all time favorite songs... J'ai Pas 20 Ans from Alizee and 2 albums worth of tracks from BWO... but I'm a little dissapointed by these new tracks from them. They're good! But I had higher expectations?

Alizee - Fifty Sixty

This retro inspired track is a little different from anything she's done before but I don't know if it's got as much hit potential as her previous singles. I also think this is the first album she's done without Mylene Farmer?

BWO - Let It Rain

I'm a little behind with this track... but i've only JUST downloaded it. I have to admit I was really looking forward to their new material... but feel a little let down by this one. It's really nice and fluffy. I guess I wanted something a little more hard hitting. From what I understand they also released a dance track as a double a side with this track. So maybe I'll like that one better. I do seem to like this one the more I listen to it though... it's just not as good as 'Conquering America' or 'Sunshine In The Rain' for example.

You Can't Stop The Rain...

It's that time of year again...

Artists are going to be filling record stores with brand new singles and albums over the next 3 months. New Sugababes, Britney Spears, Girls Aloud, Celine Dion, Shayne Ward and The Spice Girls to name a few...

And just on the horizon... we have a BRAND NEW studio album from WESTLIFE! I've posted about Westlife briefly on this blog before and you can expect to hear a lot more about them in the future as they aer one of my all time favorite bands. I was lucky enough to see them live on their Face to Face Tour in 2006 in the Uk!

For now I'll tease you all with this... The new album was JUST finished this month! The band are going to be recording their new video in September. The album will feature some of the biggest song writters in the world of pop... Anyone know Rami and Jorgen Elofsson?

Until I get my hands on their new single this will have to do.

This song should have been a single if you ask me... it's got everything you could ask for! Great harmonies, it builds as it goes along until an explosive climax!

Westlife - Heal