Merry Christmas Everyone and a Happy New Year 2012!

Joy to the World! The Lord has Come!

It's December 28, 2011. I am at home celebrating Christmas and spending the holidays with my lovely family. We are united once again on this grand occassion, remembering our Saviour's birth, living the joy of knowing that the Lord is among us; here to grant us his never-ending hope and love.

Isn't it just the best season of the year? And during this time, many artists make music and release albums of Christmas songs and Carols. This year, a friend of mine suggested I listen to the new Christmas album of Michael Buble, a talented young Canadian artist. I have to say the album is really a beautiful twist to the traditional songs of great singers past. Buble's voice, his performance and the ensemble of instruments and vocals in every song blend together to give us one of the funkiest and best productions to savor.

Have yourselves a Merry little Christmas and a prosperous New Year 2012! Make the best of every day and live life with lots of faith, perseverance and jubilance.

I leave you with a song to warm your hearts ;) Just click on the link below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSKKamK8kpI

Peace!

Vocalise!

I'd like to share with you my experience of taking vocal lessons at a music institute here in Dubai. To start with, I'm really glad to have enrolled as I have a reason to be committed to my singing. I learn something new every time and I forget the world for a while. I look forward to my class every week and it gives me joy to exercise my hobby and better my vocal abilities.

The lesson consists of 3 parts; vocal training, theory (the least fun) and singing. My teacher, Susan, is patient but nonetheless pushes me to my limits sometimes, which is what a good teacher does! :) Music might seem simple to a lot of people but that's only because they haven't delved further into it. There's a lot more to music than a rhythm or notes. It can get difficult. However, I tend to see it like any other practice. Take for example driving a car. It's very simple but when you're on a road with cars around you for the first time, attacking you from all sides and directions, you focus on the road and disregard other factors that are as essential in driving. Then, once you're on the road and learn from several mistakes you've done, you don't think anymore, you drive!

So, I'm focusing on my singing for now and enjoying it as much as possible. I love working on the music sheets, noting down my comments, reading the notes and learning terminologies. I also notice my improvement every time I reach a higher note or I sing with an open voice or prepare a harder song. It's fun and pumps me with life and energy even after a long day at work. I can only suggest that you practice your hobbies and do something new and different every once in a while. It's worth it and you never know where it might lead you! ;)

RELAX today!

It's the season of weather changes, colds and flu! And I'm a victim! So, I've been sick for the past few days, struggling with the virus. I went to the doctor, waited 2 hours in emergency. Does it still count as an emergency if you're there for two hours?! I wonder. Anyhow, I've been at home for 2 days now to relax and give my body rest as the doctor prescribed. But what's better than music to help the time pass by?

When you stay home because of sickness, you start wondering what are the activities that you could do in order to avoid boredom. Among them, I thought of reading, writing, chatting, "facebooking",eating and listening to music. It seems all of them need some kind of effort except listening to music. Well, "facebooking" is mindless but requires you to stare at a screen so it's quite annoying to the eyes. Music, on the other hand, is intrusive to the ears alone while you can lay in bed and relax! I tried to put my ipod on shuffle though and some of the rock and pop songs played, which got my head spinning. So, it's better to select a few songs or an album that you know will soothe you down. :)

So, if you're in my state, sick or unable to do much but sit in bed, listen to some music. Notice: Don't sing along if your throat is sore! Just close your eyes and enjoy it. Let go of everything for a while and let yourself feel good with doing nothing. I couldn't do that myself because I always thought it was a waste of time; but on the contrary, if you push yourself too hard when you're tired, you will end up getting more sick. Lesson of the day: RELAX today!  ;)

P.S. Get well soon.

Le Classique!

It's been a while since I've posted but I've been busy traveling, working and spending quality time with family. And life continues here in Dubai... While commuting to work in my car, on my way back home or when cruising in general, I put on channel no.6 on the car radio which is set to a classical music station. I hadn't set it intentionally but when I don't find any good music on the rest of the stations, I end up listening to channel no. 6, which I recently discovered was Abu Dhabi Classic FM.

The station plays classical pieces, opera and jazz music. I listen to it more often now that it got my attention. I enjoy it because it provides me with the right environment to think, to contemplate thoughts and ideas or just to relax. The music that plays gives me a break from life as I know it; from the hip and the hop. In the evening mostly, jazzy songs play and it's a delight to the ears. Being bombarded with commercial and popular music on the radio, in malls and clubs, which I totally enjoy by the way, there is not much place left for other genres like classical and world music to invade my life. So, it's good to change atmosphere sometimes with novelty to our ears.

What is completely impressive is that classical music specifically and music in general is used in the treatment of clinical despression. Studies have proven that the rhythm raises the level of production of Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain which maintains pleasant feelings. It's like eating something tasty or smelling a beautiful scent. Moreover, music reaches out straight to one's emotions and does not have to be processed rationally by the mind. It is said that music from the baroque and classical periods has more effect on the mind and body than modern music because of its logical composition.

In short, I believe it is true that music enhances one's performance in other areas of life, based on personal experience. I don't know about you but I personally have to have my dose of music everyday. Turn on the radio sometime, you might just find your type of music playing! ;)

Al Shahroura!

I have been watching the Lebanese TV series, Al Shahroura and I have quite a lot to say. I am sure I will have more to say with every new episode but for now, I will settle with the below.

To start with, Al Shahroura is a TV series broadcasting on television channels during the month of Ramadan in the Middle East. The story revolves around the life of the famous Lebanese singer/actress Sabah, a woman who has become a legend through her artistic career.

Watching the series gave me a feel of how the old times were in Lebanon and Egypt as her travels leaves her torn between the two countries. She faces family problems, personal disappointments and major work-related challenges. At that period of time, men were dominant and women were frail, "silent partners". Sabah was different. She was a rebel. She challenged her father who took her money on her behalf, she had strong convictions in love and suffered greatly from media's criticism.

Through it all, she was strong and stood back on her feet after one too many heartbreaks, several marriages,  2 kids and a series of unfortunate events, such as the death of her mother at her brother's gun and her first husband's forbiddance to see her son. Those events and occurances might be seen as common among celebrities as they receive great attention from the media and live a different lifestyle from people with normal jobs; however I still see this as an exception in the time of Sabah. The Middle East was not as open as the West and society didn't have mercy on anyone who broke the rules. To people, Sabah was a loved actress, nonetheless they could not accept her in their families as a wife to their sons or a mother to her own children.

Tough times were faced by Sabah and yet she survived through it all and today she is 84 years old, may God bless her with many more years of health. "Nicknamed "Shahrourat El Wadi" early in her career, Sabah has earned many more titles over her career (Ostourah , Sabbouha , Shahroura , Shahrourat Libnan ). Over a half century of singing makes Sabah the most recorded Arab singing artist in history with over 3,500 songs on records, cassette, CD, film, and in recording/broadcast studios throughout the world."*

As I was reading in a magazine today about Jennifer Lopez's separation from her husband and her rocketing career and new look, I thought of Sabah as I found the common grounds. Times change but brave and potent women keep making their mark on the world!

A song that I love for Sabah and that I would like you to hear is "Yana Yana". I dedicate it to my sister Nayana who was always associated with this song for its rhyme with her name!
Follow the link to listen to the song on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v27dq2AXPPk

* Yahoo Groups: http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/Sabah_Of_Lebanon/

DRIVE RESPONSIBLY.

I've been really busy lately with work; however the novelty in my life is driving. I got a rental car for a start to get used to the roads and while waiting to find the car I want to buy. Driving is not a game! I am fully aware of that and I consider myself to be a cautious driver, alert at all times and careful from others' reckless driving. However, we are all prone to do mistakes and the smallest of them can cost us a lot.

A few days ago, I was going out of the mall heading toward my house when a beautiful song played on the radio. I turned the volume up and became a bit more enthusiastic than I should've, I suppose. The car twisted slightly as I adjusted it at a bend as the speed got higher. It was only a split of a second; but that moment really got to me.

Music is definitely something to enjoy while driving, however it could become a distraction and sometimes cause one to lose complete focus and control on the car if too loud. Please be careful while driving; i.e.: don't dance :P , don't deafen yourself with loud music, don't drink alcohol, don't speak on the phone, don't message, don't bbm, don't speed up, don't get too excited over anything to avoid losing control of the car.
Enjoy driving, there's nothing too urgent (unless you're an ambulance)! Your life is worth a lot more than to lay it down for some jerk to take it away from you and break the hearts of your loved ones, for a silly mistake or crazy ride.

My post today was also inspired by the campaign "Taxi Night" that an active organization for the awareness of road safety in Lebanon "Kunhadi" did last night. My sister told me about it as she was going out to Skybar, a nightclub in Lebanon.The concept was to arrive and leave to and from the club by taxi; no cars allowed! The idea is really creative and helps a lot in spreading the intended message.

So enjoy your ride, your music, your night out and DRIVE RESPONSIBLY!

It's a "Beautiful" Summer!

Hello World!! It's been a while since I've posted but as usual, I was quite busy with life ;) So, here I am, back in my 22nd floor Dubai apartment sipping on my "Arpeggio" Nespresso cup and blogging again. I had an interesting week as I was in Lebanon for work last week. I didn't realize it was summer until I actually arrived to Lebanon and felt the warm breeze and saw the tourists starting to arrive! And I've got so much to share with you.

I would like to share some of what I experienced during that week as it wasn't only work; I took a few days for a small vacation! :D As I went out clubbing to the capital's most enthralling nightclubs, I enjoyed dancing to the latest hits like "On the Floor" Jennifer Lopez ft. Pitbull, Mr. Saxobeat Alexandra Stan, Give Me Everything Pitbull ft. Ne-yo only to name a few.

Every time I go to Lebanon, I come back with a CD of the latest and most enjoyable music that I snatch away from my friend. :P We'd listen to the songs in the car and the last day is when I get my treat. This time, however, we changed cars and I had to get the songs from elsewhere. hehe

On another note, I'd like to support my sister's new blog and invite you to visit it at: http://palomaloveforpeace.wordpress.com/. She chose to be a peace activist and spread the word! She was a contestant in the Miss Lebanon pageant that took place last week and landed as 3rd runner-up which is great considering all the fraud that took place; a common practice in Lebanon that seems to have pitifully reached even the beauty contests! Also, you can visit her facebook fanpage at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Paloma-Mady/236440353043308.

I'd like to leave you with a song that I really like for the artist Arash ft. Helena "Broken Angel". Arash is an Iranian-Swedish artist. He sings in his mother-tongue Iranian and includes what seems to my ears as Oriental rhythms. You can listen to the song on youtube at the link below: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-whp15J2n_M

Enjoy summer!

Remembering Abba, at "Fete de La Musique"

June 21: Fete de la Musique!!

This music festival and now also World Music Day is a festival that originated in France but soon spread to many other countries and became a worldwide festival! Unfortunately, the UAE is not a country where the Music Festival is popular but I know that Lebanon is where it always takes place! Every year, bands, performers and musicians gather in Beirut to play music all night long... All genres of music are played, from Rock to Jazz to Pop and everyone will find something to enjoy!

In the occassion of Music Day, I would like to share with you the lyrics of the song: The Winner Takes It All by Abba. This classic song is one I really admire and Abba is a band I respect. Let us remember history's most amazing POP band and enjoy its music.

The Winner Takes It All on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92cwKCU8Z5c

The Winner Takes It All Lyrics:

I don’t wanna talk
About the things we’ve gone through
Though it’s hurting me
Now it’s history
I’ve played all my cards
And that’s what you’ve done too
Nothing more to say
No more ace to play

The winner takes it all
The loser standing small
Beside the victory
That’s her destiny

I was in your arms
Thinking I belonged there
I figured it made sense
Building me a fence
Building me a home
Thinking I’d be strong there
But I was a fool
Playing by the rules

The gods may throw a dice
Their minds as cold as ice
And someone way down here
Loses someone dear
The winner takes it all
The loser has to fall
It’s simple and it’s plain
Why should I complain.

But tell me does she kiss
Like I used to kiss you?
Does it feel the same
When she calls your name?
Somewhere deep inside
You must know I miss you
But what can I say
Rules must be obeyed

The judges will decide
The likes of me abide
Spectators of the show
Always staying low
The game is on again
A lover or a friend
A big thing or a small
The winner takes it all

I don’t wanna talk
If it makes you feel sad
And I understand
You’ve come to shake my hand
I apologize
If it makes you feel bad
Seeing me so tense
No self-confidence
But you see
The winner takes it all
The winner takes it all......

DRIVE AWAY!

Today is a really special day for me... I finally got my Emirates driving license!! Well, you might think: Big deal, you're not the first one. But you would really be missing the point. I am glad to have the option of driving, the freedom of taking a car and going anywhere I want. I guess that was a feeling I was missing here.

My mood has recently changed because of the thought of how my life can change with a car on hand. So now it's all about choosing the car; my FIRST CAR! :) A "fast car"? A car for "chasing cars"? You must know to which songs I'm referring: Fast Car - Tracy Chapman and Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol. It's amazing how many songs there are about cars! I suppose it's because this means of transportation has meant more to people than its purpose. A car is a personal asset representing the personality of its owner, acting as a second home for someone, becoming a companion along the roads.

I discovered a folk song by Woody Guthrie called "Car Song" on youtube. I like how he makes the sounds of the car with his mouth and sings along. It reminded me somehow of "Old McDonald had a farm" so it's quite melodic. I guess we never stop learning about what's in music! Even cars get songs... It's a great feeling to own a car, hit the road and drive away. Just drive carefully please. :)

Fairuz... In the morning

In the morning, I go to work with colleagues of mine by the time I get my driving license. And every morning, the car radio is tuned in on an Arabic-speaking station: 98.4 FM2. Between 7:00 am and 8:00 am, the station plays songs of Fairuz, the Lebanese singer who is considered to be one of the most famous and respected singers in the Arab World.

Fairuz is a national pride for Lebanon and an admired singer whose songs at heard until today. Her musical career started in the 1960s and her songs are as popular today as they were then. I reckon that is because of the simplicity of the words, the context and the rhythms. The time of Fairuz's songs was different from our time and this explains why people still find the songs so appealing and engaging. They remind them of another period, bring about memories, give an air of simplicity and relaxation. People can associate themselves with them.
The music of  Fairuz's songs, composed by her husband Assi Rahbani is exceptionally appeasing. A real pleasure for people who know how to appreciate it and linger in its charming effect. I admit it is not music I would hear all day but a shot in the morning would feel good to start off the day.

I understand that this Fairuz morning ritual that I am witnessing every morning, except on weekends, is common in several Arab countries: Syria, Iraq, Tunisia, UAE to name a few that I know of. This is also true in Lebanon. My dad used to sometimes listen to Fairuz on the radio while taking me to university in the morning!
I must admit that as a youngster, I didn't understand Fairuz's music and songs. They seemed so dull and uninteresting. With time, I learned how to recognize the value of Fairuz's art, which is part of the Lebanese folklore. What I like most in her is her voice's steadiness. She has a stable tonality, a strong and cohesive voice; at once calm, flowing and beautifully controlled. She goes from octave to another so easily that it seems effortless! I am trying to sing some of her songs, however as I mentioned earlier on my blog, Arabic singing is very different from Western singing as it entails different learning systems. However, singing never knows a limit and I would like to try it all! ;)

P.S.: I leave you with a song for Fairuz that I like most for its meaningful words, pleasant beat and emotional value: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=151IbT6ucO4&feature=related
Enjoy!

Oprah's Final Season

I was watching Oprah's show a few days ago and as it's the final season, I couldn't but feel concerned with the fact that she will not be on TV in the regular way that I am used to seeing her in her show. As some singers like Mary-Jay Blige and others recorded a few words for her last season, I remembered all the artists and musicians I watched her host on her show.

I can't but appreciate the work of this strong and passionate woman who gave 25 years of her life to her audience, which could very well be the world! She has given so much of her time, her talent, her love, her contributions and her expertise and I am sure that she got back a lot in return; a life full of experiences! I remember that when I knew Celine Dion was going to appear on Oprah's show 2 years back, I couldn't watch the episode so I asked a friend at a media agency to send it to me... :D

A few days ago, I watched the episode where Celine Dion appeared for the last time on Oprah's show and I got the goosebumps. I learned that Celine is the celebrity who has the most number of appearances on Oprah's show!! Celine spoke about her life with her family of 5 members now that the twins are born and announced her come-back to Las Vegas for a new show that will last for 3 years! I am definitely going to watch her!
It was a real pleasure to watch Celine perform on Oprah's Show for the last time.Oprah has given the world so much to think about, so much to believe in, so much to look forward to. My mom and I would watch her and mom would say: You might some day sing on her show. I guess that won't happen... But that doesn't mean I will not meet her! So, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Oprah on her success and on her extraordinary work throughout the years. I wish to see more people like her shake the world upside down and bring about remarkable changes! That could be any one of us... I count on you ;)

Beatification of John Paul II!

Today was the beatification of Pope John Paul II at St. Peter's Square in Rome! It was a blessed moment for all Catholics, Polish people, Christians in general and the world altogether... A blessed day to rejoice that a human from among us has reached another phase, one closer to God, confirming and strengthening our hope and faith.

There is hope for every one of us to become a saint. Believe in that and you will attain it. Love is the key to every step that John Paul II had taken. Let us pray for his sainthood and that God may guide us to reach the same and become closer to Him.

In honor of our Pope John Paul II and for the repose of his soul, I invite you to listen to one of the most popular, enigmatic, controversial and amazing pieces of music ever composed: REQUIEM by Mozart. It was Mozart's last masterpiece!

Lord, hear our prayer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zi8vJ_lMxQI

N.B.: I had a dream of someday meeting with the Pope John Paul II personally; but I will not have the chance to. At least, not on this earth. Our meeting will have to wait! ;)  

John Paul II, we love you!

Happy Easter!

The day before yesterday was Good Friday in the Christian liturgy. I went to attend the "passion of the cross" at St. Mary's church in Dubai but there was only a service mass in Arabic. It was quite different from what we do back at home, where I come from. However, the hymns that were sung were the same and I really felt my heart rejoice just to the sound of those profound words that made me feel the real meaning of Easter and the reason why all Christians were gathered in the church hall and outside to commemorate the death of Our Saviour!


Easter is much more than a feast to celebrate; it's the essence of the Christian faith. The son of God came to earth to teach us about love and yet the world hated Him... He came to save us from ourselves; our sins and yet we committed the biggest crime by crucifying Him. Easter is the celebration of life; the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth, the man who went through the cruelest of all suffering to come out victorious over death. This is what is preached in the Christian faith and what we are taught. However, one will not understand the meaning of this phenomenon without being able to feel it.

The hymns that are sung during the "Holy Week" (last week of lent until Easter) really portray the suffering of Christ and the suffering of our Lady Mary for the horrible things that she witnessed her son going through. Those songs of praise illustrate the events that took place back in the time of Jesus Christ and their signification to us today. It's amazing how words can transport a person from one state to another.

I hope that you can feel the true meaning of this bright and beautiful feast of victory! I pray that God be in every one of your hearts. I pray that the Holy Spirit guides every one of us in the right direction. I pray that Jesus' cross remains the symbol that reminds us of His unmatched sacrifice and gives us HOPE.  

It's a celebration of renewal and rebirth; the religious rebirth of our sin-free souls, the renewal of nature with Spring, the renewal of our hope for our redemption.

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!

Here is a hymn sung by Fairuz in Arabic that is familiar to all those who celebrate Easter in the Middle East:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8n6ETJ4YqI

B-B-Beatboxing... YEAH!

Hi Everyone! So, I come back to you with a lot of energy and motivation...

I'd like to share with you some of the things that I have encountered recently that really made me think about music in a number of ways. Yesterday, I was switching TV stations (something I do rarely these days) and I stopped on MTV Arabia channel. Although the station showcases different programs than the ones in the US and Europe, there are some that are the same like the famous "MADE" program. So, the shy high school girl wanted to be "made" into a beatboxer!!

At first, I thought that it would be really hard to believe that beatboxing could be done by anybody. Then, as I was watching, I tried it myself... It was so cool! At the beginning, I couldn't get one sound correctly. But one time after the other, the sounds I made started to feel right, sound right and fall into place in the beat I was trying to create. So, it turns out that it's as hard as anything else. One just needs to practice. The effort it took to make those sounds though, reminded me of the vocal exercises I do to warm up my voice!! It made so much sense and it was so much fun!

How about you try it yourself! I suggest you listen to a beatboxer on Youtube or the net and try to imitate the boom, tshik, ptst, pouf, pah, etc. and alternate in the frequency and tempo. You'll find it really entertaining and discover you had the ability to do things that you would normally find astounding and weird. You'll also feel your diaphragm move, your breathing increase, and your diction becoming very heavy to form the consonents and vowels of the sounds correctly.

Some people can beatbox, sing and talk at the same time which I consider to be an incredible gift they have. And although it's more generally known that guys beatbox, a lot of girls do it too, a famous one being Butterscotch. Quite an experience... I love beatboxing! ;)

I leave you with something to marvel at, please click on the link below and enjoy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUuCnKBCTyo

 

Butterscotch performing

 

Rahzel performing



Uninspired... but invited

I’ve been in a stale situation recently. I’ve been uninspired!

There are several reasons for that, however, it’s not the first time and I’m not the only one… We all go through a period of stagnancy. Mine is an artistic stagnancy. Since I have started my new job, I have had no time for singing, playing the piano, painting or any kind of artistic activity. I haven’t even had the time to blog, which made me think a lot.

It’s actually not that bad to be disconnected for a while because one only comes back with more determination and more drive. I believe every individual who has a hobby or talent in art never actually stops exercising it or going back to it whether that is singing, painting, photography, sculpting, etc. Art is not a course one takes in a school; it is not an activity to just pass the time. It is rather a passion built-in in ones’ system; distilled in one’s blood.  

At least, that’s how it is to me! It's spring time; a time when nature is transforming which seems to me like a perfect metaphor for my situation. So, my plan is to climb my way back to where I left my artistic self… Don’t lose your edge, that little craziness you’ve got in you. There is a time for everything; just hold on to what’s important to you and enjoy it! ;) Today, you are invited to give priority to your art, your passions, your zeal.

Recent Updates

I've been very busy lately so excuse the long absence! I just started my new job and I have a training in Lebanon so I am really not able to do much with my time. However, last week when I was still in Dubai, I went to check a music institute where I was inquiring about the vocal and piano lessons.

I met with the teacher who was so energetic and had a touch of "craziness" which is an ingredient every musician/music enthusiast must have! I was very excited, happy to exercise my voice again, to be encouraged to let it out and give my all. I had a good time performing weird exercises that singers have to do, remembering the techniques and singing my favorite songs.

I plan on enrolling in a music institute once I am back in Dubai to continue my vocal training. I promise to post a small demo soon... I miss recording! :)

On another note, I went out to a night club in Dubai last weekend that had a one-man show who plays Arabic music on a keyboard. It was interesting to listen to all the typical Arabic songs that make people dance and remember some of the wild nights in Lebanon! It's been a long while since I attended such a show.

There was no belly dancer, but the people dancing on oriental rythmes is something to see and experience, especially that oriental dance is sensual and expressive. For those of you who live in this part of the world or are from this part of the world, you would know what I am talking about. For those of you who have never been to an Arabic one-man show night out, you will find it's quite an experience by itself! :P

It's a new start... Here I am!

I haven't blogged for the past 2 weeks as I was busy searching for a new house to move into and recovering from a harsh flu and major physical pain! It was a very stressful and tough period for me to go through here in Dubai on my own. However, I was lucky to have friends around me who supported me and my family in Lebanon to take care of me when I was there.

I believe one of the things that contributed positively to my experience was music. There wasn’t a day when I didn’t listen to a song or to a composition that made me feel better. Music was there all throughout, on my ipod, on my laptop, on the home stereo, in the car, even on my phone! It’s incredible how amazing this is. All this technology made things easier for me, given that I actually own the required equipment and I have the knowledge to use it.

So, I have moved to my new apartment and spent the entire weekend fixing it! That was exciting… I am also feeling better and fresher than ever. I have quit my job and will be starting soon with a new company. It’s a new start for me and I can’t but share the good news with you. That said, I plan to allocate more time for my music, now that things are more stable, and share more of it with you.

Relating to this big change in my life, I remembered a song that I sang with my graduating class for Bryan Adams “HERE I AM”. So, here I am, ready for the next step ahead which will be a big one! I told you 2011 was gonna be a good one!! ;) Hoping that everyone gets a chance to experience a positive change in his/her life, I leave you with this song…

HERE I AM - Bryan Adams

Here I am
This is me
There's nowhere else on earth I'd rather be
Here I am
It's just me and you
Tonight we make our dreams come true

It's a new world
It's a new start
It's alive with the beating of young hearts
It's a new day
It's a new plan
I've been waiting for you
Here I am
Here we are
We've just begun
And after all this time
Our time has come
Yeah here we are
Still goin' strong
Right here in the place where we belong

Oh it's a new world
It's a new start
It's alive with the beating of young hearts
It's a new day
And a new plan
I've been waiting for you
Here I am

Here I am
Yeah

Here I am
This is me
There's nowhere else on earth I'd rather be
Here I am
It's just me and you
Tonight we make our dreams come true

Oh it's a new world
It's a new start
It's alive with the beating of young hearts
It's a new day
It's a new plan
I've been waiting for you

Oh it's a new world
It's a new start
It's alive with the beating of young hearts
It's a new day
It's a new plan
I've been waiting for you
(Waiting, waiting waiting)
Here I am

Here I am
Right next to you
Suddenly the world is all brand new
Here I am
Here I am
Where I'm gonna stay
Now there's nothin' standing in our way
Here I am
This is me

Middle East vs. West

vs.

                      

Yesterday, I read an article in a well known Lebanese publication contrasting Arabic songs from Lebanon and the Middle East to Western songs. The article basically said that Arabic songs have the same subjects and have no content relevant to the audience who will eventually stop listening to such songs. The article also mentioned that in the Western culture, songs are more memorable and speak of meaningful subjects that portray part of society and that give people a reason to listen to them.

It is very hard for me to speak about the musical scene in this part of the world without some bitterness. I believe music hasn't been given its rights in the Middle East as it has in other parts of the world. I'm sure every region and every country has its own way of understanding, liking and listening to music but the Middle East is quite surprising when one observes it.

Music needs to be heard whether that is to open people's eyes to a situation, make them fall in love, give them a reason to throw a party or listen to delightful rhythms and feel peace and ecstacy. People are exposed to a large variety of music types, whether Arabic or Western, and expect change so quickly that the environment is very competitive. However, what I believe is happening is that artists, lyricists and composers are coming up with whatever is best in time for the release of an album for commercial purposes! In that, I see the point of the article when it says that if artists will keep releasing Arabic songs that have no meaningful content, people will stop listening to them. People in the music industry must stop thinking that everything will work and that the audience is stupid enough to listen to senseless songs!

In the Middle East, I feel that music is still sidelined and its value is not well appreciated. It does not invade our lives as it should. Music is so powerful but its power hasn't been explored and hasn't taken effect in this part of the world. It feels like it still is a weak form of art in this region although there is so much talent to be explored! The Middle East has countless artists who have as much ambition and talent as anyone in the West. I just wish that those people be given the chance and the means to enrich the Middle Eastern and world culture with their art.

Happy Valentine's day!

Saint Valentine's day is a day of celebration; and as some celebrate their love, others prefer to celebrate their independence! ;) There is so much to be said about Valentine's Day knowing that its origin is vague and this feast has developed throughout the centuries!

It all started with St.Valentine who was a Christian priest around the year AD 200 and who secretly wed men who were supposed to serve as unmarried soldiers in the time of Claudius II to women they loved. When the emperor discovered that, he had him killed. Also, it is said that the priest fell in love while he was in prison and sent a letter to his loved one signed "From your Valentine". With time, the feast became a day of love and lovers around the world. This day is so special to some but means little to others. I believe it should mean "something" to everyone.

It's not just a day for lovers. It's a day for love. Who doesn't love somebody? A mother? A child? A friend? A relative? Love is everywhere... And love is simply in YOU! All those songs about love don't only speak of/to lovers but also of the idea of love. Decorations, gifts, cakes, flowers, cards all make Valentine a special day but what would it be without music? Love songs probably account for more than half the repertoire of all songs in the world, which is fantastic. There's nothing that can be expressed better in songs!

I would like to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day whether you are with someone or alone; there is no reason whatsoever not to celebrate LOVE! And remember St. Valentine's big heart and fight for the benediction of the love of two people. Let him be our example to constantly get the best out of ourselves and others. I will leave you with a song I admire and believe is right for the occassion: NATURE BOY.

Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iq0XJCJ1Srw

Nature Boy - Nat King Cole

Words by: Eden Ahbez

There was a boy
A very strange enchanted boy
They say he wandered very far, very far
Over land and sea
A little shy
And sad of eye
But very wise
Was he

And then one day
A magic day he came my way
And while we spoke of many things, fools and kings
This he said to me
"The greatest thing
You'll ever learn
Is just to love
And be loved
In return"


"The greatest thing
You'll ever learn
Is just to love
And be loved
In return"

Karma... Kafe

Last weekend, my friends and I went to a beautiful place in Dubai called "Karma Kafe". It's a restaurant and bar that serves Asian fusion cuisine. Karma Kafe belongs to the creator of the famous Buddha Bar apparently; which explained the interior decoration, the mood and the music.

As I had dinner there, I observed the small buddha statues all over the walls and a large one I was sitting next to. The crimson color was clearly dominant as one enters the place.What I loved the most was the music that was playing. It wasn't too loud nor was it just background music. It was perfect for the ambiance. Many familiar tracks from the Buddha Bar CDs were played and the mood transported me to another world. It was a lovely evening.




Me next to Big Buddha!


The place reminded me of Buddha Bar club in Lebanon although it was quite different. The music however was similar and I thought of how much I like such environments. Chill out and lounge music create a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere that entices one to stay in it for hours without realizing it. It's amazing how music can affect people's experiences! I love to keep discovering such places. I seem to have missed the "Cafe Del Mar" bar when I went to Ibiza last summer but I will surely go back to witness the majestic sunset and listen to the best chill out music! ;)

A World of Music!

I often think of how fortunate I am to be have been exposed to so many types of music during my life. I have lived in France during my childhood where my parents used to listen to French songs especially the oldies for the likes of Jacques Brel, Francis Cabrel, Alain Souchon, Enrico Macias and countless remarkable artists.

In Lebanon, I got introduced to the oriental rhythms and the Arabic songs and artists. A large part of the oriental music is dance music, which makes it greatly enjoyable! Also, the beauty of the Arabic language is that a lot can be expressed in so many ways because of its rich vocabulary. In Arabic music, there are melodic modes, introductions at the beginning of a song, alternations between solo instruments and full ensembles and many other music structures that are specific and that do not exist in other music genres.

Furthermore, what is interesting in the Arabic music scene is that there's a trend whereby composers use Turkish or Greek music to make a song with Arabic lyrics. That is one phenomenon that made people in the Middle East familiar with music from other neighbouring countries and regions. Lebanon is also the best country to be in to enjoy music from all over the Arab world. Artists, composers and singers from Egypt, Syria, Jordan, the UAE and other GCC countries all showcase their works in Lebanon as it is one of the most diverse and dynamic countries in the Middle East where people appreciate music and arts.

As for Latino music, it's probably a big part of my life and always will be. There's no way to fight back the feeling; I am in love with the Spanish rhythms... I've been under this spell for a long time now, since I watched the movie "Dance with me". The latin dances, the music, the songs, the performances, everything had a mark on me. Latin music is sensual and passionate, colorful and expressive, dramatic and warm. It has a way to get to everyone, everywhere in the world.

When I was growing up, there were a lot of popular bands around like the Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls, Westlife,etc. I remember my sister was obsessed with Mariah Carey whose voice I find truly impeccable so we used to listen to her CDs on a daily basis. I personally adored Celine Dion since I first heard her song "Because you loved me". And my mom loved Michael Jackson (May God rest his soul in peace). I listened to his music throughout most of the stages of my life. And now, as the market gets more competitive, more artists are in the American/English music scene and I listen to what appeals to me mostly.

Then comes the amazing house/ trance music that I am addicted to lately as it just pumps me up with so much energy. It has the ability to change my mood, brighten my day, help me endure my workout, give me creative ideas, remind me of good times and simply make me feel alive! I also love Rock bands such as Nickleback, Daughtry, The Script and others.

I cannot forget to mention the famed and monumental lounge/chillout music that transports one to a distinct world of love, ecstasy and spirituality like Buddha Bar compilations by Claude Challe and Cafe del Mar compilations.There are endless forms and genres of music in this world that one has yet to discover. If every country in the world has a specific style of music, then we end up with 195 to enjoy!

I believe what I am trying to say here is that I am glad I had the opportunity to experience all those types of music and many others I haven't mentioned here because they have all taken part in my formation, in making me the person I am today. Everyone must explore the diversity that's around him/her. It's amazing how powerful you will find music to be. It has the power to do so much, create and destroy, in so many different ways. It's important to keep an open mind, an open spirit and an open heart in order to receive the rewards music has to give! It's a world of music out there...

A voice message

I decided to record a voice message for a change. My soundcloud account doesn't seem to be connecting to blogger though so please go to the link below to listen. :) Thanks!

http://soundcloud.com/mayoushka/a-voice-message

Liban, ecoute: Quand on a que l'amour!

My dear country, Lebanon, is in turmoil! I'm so sorry to have to see it in distress due to political dilemmas over and over again! I would like to dedicate a song to my countrymen today called "Quand On a Que L'amour" translating to "When we have nothing but love". Please read and listen. I hope it inspires you and gives you something to contemplate. I have also posted the song in English underneath.

PEACE! PAIX!

YOUTUBE link:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zX1CAStNu-Q

Quand on n'a que l'amour - Jacques Brel

Quand on n'a que l'amour
A s'offrir en partage
Au jour du grand voyage
Qu'est notre grand amour

Quand on n'a que l'amour
Mon amour toi et moi
Pour qu'éclatent de joie
Chaque heure et chaque jour

Quand on n'a que l'amour
Pour vivre nos promesses
Sans nulle autre richesse
Que d'y croire toujours

Quand on n'a que l'amour
Pour meubler de merveilles
Et couvrir de soleil
La laideur des faubourgs

Quand on n'a que l'amour
Pour unique raison
Pour unique chanson
Et unique secours

Quand on n'a que l'amour
Pour habiller matin
Pauvres et malandrins
De manteaux de velours

Quand on n'a que l'amour
A offrir en prière
Pour les maux de la terre
En simple troubadour

Quand on n'a que l'amour
A offrir à ceux-là
Dont l'unique combat
Est de chercher le jour

Quand on n'a que l'amour
Pour tracer un chemin
Et forcer le destin
A chaque carrefour

Quand on n'a que l'amour
Pour parler aux canons
Et rien qu'une chanson
Pour convaincre un tambour
Alors sans avoir rien
Que la force d'aimer
Nous aurons dans nos mains
Amis, le monde entier

When one only has love

(translated by Anne-Marie de Grazia)

When one only has love
As a give and take
At the dawn of the great journey
this our great love

When one only has love
My love, you and I
To make burst with joy
Every hour of every day

When one only has love
To live up to our promises
Without any other riches
Then to believe in it always

When one only has love
To furnish with wonder
And cover with light
The blight of the suburbs

When one only has love
As a sole purpose
As a sole song
And sole recourse

When one only has love
To clothe at dawn
The poor and the criminal
In mantles of velvet

When one only has love
To offer in prayer
For the suffering world
As a modest minstrel

When one only has love
To give to those
Whose only fight
Is to search for daylight

When one only has love
To trace a path
And force fate
At every crossroad

When one only has love
To speak to cannons
And only a song
To change the mind of a drum

Then without having anything

But the strength to love
We shall hold in our hands
My friend, the entire world

SEXY, extravagant BURLESQUE

This weekend, I went to the cinemas and watched BURLESQUE, the movie featuring Christina Aguilera and Cher. I had the wrong impression that it was about the life of Cher acted out by Christina but it turned out to be a totally different story!

I liked BURLESQUE. I like this cabaret kind of performance in first place so I enjoyed watching the musical. I thought the performances were well thought of, beautifully choreographed and the outfits were fabulous. Christina's voice in the songs was as good as always. I really like the quality of her voice, this gentle coarseness that makes her voice unique and different from other singers. I must say though that the girl in the movie didn't look like the Christina Aguilera I know! The features of her face seemed very different from usual.

Cher is also one great artist (of Armenianorigin apparently) whose voice resembles no other. It truly is incomparable and uncommon. It's incredible how her approach to a song and her performance are rare and unusual. I also thought that Cher's body looked amazing! She has long, sexy legs that she shows off in the movie! :)

I was not impressed by the acting in general, however there is no denying that the movie overall made sense and was worth watching. I was entertained by the burlesque, touched by the story and delighted by the voices! It doubtlessly needs some guts to get on stage and perform those sensual shows knowing that millions of people will be watching the movie on big screen. I admire the audacity of all the dancers and the participants in the shows. It was certainly thrilling and exciting! I'm now looking forward to watching a live burlesque!! So, where's the best place to do that? Ideas, anyone? ;)

"When I grow up, I want to become a singer"!

As children, we all have a vision of what we want to become when we grow up. We are asked at some point in our lives and we say: "I want to become a doctor", "I want to become a pilot", "I want to become a lawyer just like dad", etc. We have an idea in mind based on what our parents do or what we have seen or been exposed to and that we liked. This might be our first thought of our lives as adults in the future; however most of the times, it's only a first thought and we never become that person because we either grow up to like other things or we forget about our little dreams!

When I was 5, I wanted to become an artist just like Dorothee. I used to live in France when I was young and there was a program on TV called Club Dorothee. I used to watch it with my sister and enjoy the songs, the cartoons, the competitions and every other element of the show. I remember my biggest excitement was when my mom finally decided to take my sister and I to watch Dorothee's concert at Bercy. It was amazing! My eyes were glowing. I was taken by the stage, the performances, the choreography, her voice, the light effects, the show was mind blowing to me, a 5 year-old! I still remember how at the end of the concert, she picked all the flowers from the kids, the mothers, the fathers, her fans!

My sister and I got all the tapes of her concerts back then and we used to watch them and pretend to be her and change our clothes with every song and live the concert every time. We were big fans; we were members of her club "Club Dorothee". I knew I wanted to become an artist; a singer. The story is that I still feel this is what I want to do today. The dream is still alive in me and I am pursuing it.

It's not easy to enter the field of arts as there is not one path to follow to get there but many and there is no real structure. As you can see, a lot of artists have become who they are today in myriads of different ways, each struggling to make it. The will eventually finds the way, with a bit of luck, a plan in mind and a lot of talent, one can make it. ;) It's important for parents to let their children dream but what's even more important is to let them pursue their passion in life and encourage them to do so. I am lucky to have parents who love music and admire my passion for it.I hope you are among those people who love it too and share my love for singing.

A few words I wrote for you!