StyleWhipped

Jennifer Corcione: It All Comes Down To An Album

When I think of Album of the Year, I picture it being the biggest honor any musician can have bestowed upon them. (I mean, besides the Lifetime Achievement Award…which I will get into with my regular column later this month!) It means that everything about the artist and their musical masterpiece was perfect. From the songs, to the production team, even down to the delivery of the album to the public. It’s probably one of my all-time favorite categories to watch, especially since I really love a strong album over a hit single any day; and the nominees are certainly winners!

Foo Fighters brought rock back into the forefront with Wasting Light; their first single “Walk” makes me reminisce about how I felt when the band first emerged on the scene. They have come so far in their career and still manage to keep making rock a staple in our music collections.

Rihanna surprisingly has come into her own this year with Loud. Before her separation from Chris Brown, I had no interest in her music or who she was. But after growing and evolving from her relationship through her songs, particularly with Loud, I can’t help but want to want to hug her in ”Love the Way You Lie” or assert a darker, more decadent side with her in “S&M.”

Lady Gaga is always in a category of her own, especially with Born This Way. Gaga’s music always pushes the envelope and encourages us to be who we are and accept it. Granted, I can’t always get into her music the way many others have, but the message from her title track makes for a great campaign to stop the bullying and have some self-acceptance.

Adele has been on fire with several Grammy nominations (as you have read in previous columns!) Her sophomore album 21 really embodies the spirit of a woman who struggles and pushes through her life with dignity and just a little humility. Instead of making love all about flowers and rainbows, her broken heart bleeds into her lyrics.

Finally, we have Bruno Mars, who shines through with Doo-Wops & Hooligans. Just about every single that has been released from this album has been magical. Mars knows how to keep the balance between the smooth R&B, yet reinvent the modern-day crooner. 

So who wins? Who takes home the coveted award? While Arcade Fire may have secured that win last year, I don’t think it will go in the same direction this year.

Jenn’s Pick: Adele. This has really been her year. She’s been through so much with her music and her health that she has earned it all. 

Who will most likely win: Lady Gaga. She’s been pushing the envelope with her music, I wouldn’t be surprised in the least to see her win this for her avant-garde style.

The Wild-card: Foo Fighters. While they’re not my favorite rock band (or one I’d go to as a staple in my collection), their 2011 release deserves recognition. They have had a previous Grammy nod with their 2007 album Echoes, Silence Patience & Grace; but this year it’s their time to shine and bring rock back into the fold.

***Tune into CBS on Sunday, February 12th night at 8/7c for the 54^th Annual Grammy Awards!*** 

~Jenn

 

Jennifer Corcione: All About A Song...

Song of the Year and Record of the Year appear to look like the same category, yet they’re not. While the “Song” award is given to those who wrote the single that catapulted the artist into the spotlight, the “Record” is given to those who produced the song (i.e., the producer & sound engineers). But since both focus on the singles, I thought it would be fun to talk about them together!

Song of the Year is always a tough choice for me…well, tougher this year for sure. I normally can locate my favorite by the number of times that particular track has played on my iTunes. But this year, it’s difficult to pick a clear winner; each and every artist nominated has brought their A-game to the table in 2011. Choosing a winner almost feels like which of your children do you love the most.

For Adele, her big hit “Rolling in the Deep” has topped just about every chart and played every time I turned on the radio. She’s broken all stereotypes with her style, attitude, and image; the role of strong female performer became her theme in 2011.

Then again, you also have Mumford & Sons competing against her with their biggest hit, “The Cave.” Coming from across the pond, these boys are bringing back a folk/bluegrass-style of music to the mix; something we haven’t heard in a long time amidst the haze of hip-hop & club music anthems. Bon Iver adds his indie vibe to the fold with a haunting melody about redemption, “Holocene.”

On the other side of the music spectrum, you have Bruno Mars with “Grenade” & Kanye (& Co.) with “All of the Lights.” Mars has brought the soulful male singer-songwriter more into the spotlight, while Kanye has kept up with just doing his thing and raising the bar in the hip-hop industry.

Song of the Year is more of a popularity contest than anything. If you’ve heard the song enough times to need a hiatus from their music altogether, it’s almost a guarantee that they’re taking home that coveted gramophone.

Jenn’s Pick: Adele’s “Rollin’ In the Deep.” That song has made 2011 in more ways that we can even understand; she's earned it!

Who will most likely win: Bruno Mars “Grenade.” Everyone loves a cutie that can pen an angsty love song and sing it almost effortlessly.

The Wild-card: Mumford & Sons “The Cave.” The music scene has been making some huge changes within the past year and I wouldn’t be surprised to see these boys take home the Grammy Gold.

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Record of the Year, while featuring the singles nominated, really focus on the quality of the recording and those who help make the song sound pleasing to our ears. And this particular culmination of artists will certainly make my selection process a little difficult!

Just a disclaimer to this category, when it comes to the production/engineering end of music…it’s more like unchartered territory! I probably wouldn’t know who The Smeezingtons (minus Bruno Mars) or Marcus Dravs (Mumford & Sons) was if they passed me on the street. I’m a writer, not a sound engineer or a music producer. Fortunately, I do know (and love) music and the quality of what I listen to are important to me, especially when I suggest music to all of you. (I’m also quick on learning about the competitors’ strengths & weaknesses in their industry, even if I am not as learned on the subject.)

Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep” has such a distinguishable sound, one that can be attributed to Paul Epworth, who has earned his credits working with U.K. acts. (Think Florence + the Machine and Kate Nash.)  Then again, Bon Iver’s “Holocene” also brings a different sound to the table, especially with lead singer Justin Vernon being responsible for the producing & engineering on the album.

Bruno Mars went with his production team that he runs with Philip Lawrence & Ari Levine, The Smeezingtons; Mumford & Sons had their folk/bluegrass sound ‘rocked’ out a little by Marcus Dravs, also known for his work with Coldplay on their most recent album, Mylo Xyloto. And last but not least, we have Katy Perry for her work with Swedish production team Stargate (Mikkel S. Eriksen and Tor Erik Hermansen), who earned a 2008 Grammy nomination for Beyoncé's "Irreplaceable."

So who has the best production team? Is it based on experience or how the industry feels about the music itself? Or maybe it's more about the quality...we'll see.  

Jenn’s Pick: Mumford & Sons “The Cave.” Markus Dravs (the producer) worked with last year’s Album of the Year winner, Arcade Fire. He’s proven that when it comes down to the wire, he knows how to make a band sound Grammy-worthy.

Who will most likely win: Bruno Mars “Grenade.” The Smeezingtons are known for their work with Cee Lo Green on “F**k You” and B.o.B’s “Nothin’ on You”; this production team has been a strong one, as their work has now earned them a third Record of the Year nomination.

The Wild-card: Adele “Rolling in the Deep.” Paul Epworth has worked with a lot of talented artists (in and out of the mainstream) and is also just as deserving to be recognized for this work. (Not only has Epworth worked with Adele and the above mentioned artists; Cee Lo Green, Bloc Party, & Foster The People are just a few on his list of clients.)

***We still have one more category to go! (The big one: Album of the Year.) Stay tuned!***

~Jenn

Vendor Spotlight: Imagine Entertainment

Editor's Note: Today, Danielle and I bring you a special profile on Imagine Entertainment, a wedding entertainment company based in New Jersey. Because I know these great guys personally, Danielle was kind enough to let me collaborate on her column! So keep reading for a little from both of us...

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A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Nick Cavaleri, the owner of Imagine Entertainment, a wedding entertainment group, and Cris Crapello, one of Nick's emcee/DJ's, while I was in Atlantic City. Cris and I got to talking about how Imagine had won WeddingWire.com's prestigious "Bride's Choice Award" as well as numerous mentions from TheKnot.com, and I knew I wanted to bring Imagine to Stylewhipped's readers.

Based in Ocean County, NJ (where I happen to have a house on Long Beach Island), Imagine has been around for eleven years (and Nick has emcee'd events in 28 states!). The first ten of those years were based in Red Bank, NJ, but after doing multiple hundreds of wedding just last year alone, I think Nick has definitely defined an impressive reputation for himself in the new locale (not to mention that he and Cris were so much fun in person, I could only imagine what they're like at "work"!). So I got on the phone with Nick to learn a little more...

An emcee/DJ for over 13 years, Nick started Imagine because he wanted there to be more quality (as opposed to just quantity) in the wedding entertainment business. He was determined to make the bride & groom the center of attention, eradicate the "cheesy" factor of a stereotypical wedding DJ, and make the music and entertainment of the event really reflect the bride & groom's personalities. With his 25 employees (DJ's, music mixers...basically everything you need for a full-service entertainment group) currently on staff, not only is Imagine able to perform at 5 weddings on any given day, but Nick is able to act as a bit of a matchmaker...pairing couples with an emcee whose personality perfectly matches theirs, who will make their wedding show them off in the best possible way. In effect, Imagine becomes true day-of coordinators, ensuring that the entire party projects exactly what the client wants.

All of Nick's employees have diverse experiences, tastes and personalities, so they can basically handle any bride & groom...or other type of client! Because while Imagine focuses primarily on weddings, they also cover corporate events (and have worked with big-name companies like Sirius and NBC...), holiday parties, fashion shows, you name it. And each of those employees also have some kind of experience as actors or working musicians...and this is for a very specific reason: Nick believes in a tried-and-true acting method (which is also used by singers on stage) called "transfer of enthusiasm." Instead of being that stereotypical emcee yelling "everybody get on the dance floor!," Nick and his guys never need to do that...they are truly having so much fun that the guests just automatically follow suit. Sounds like a perfect party, if you ask me...

Now, Danielle also had some specific questions for Nick, which he happily answered...

Danielle Aspromatis: What are some songs on your go-to playlist for guests who are reluctant to get on the dance floor?

Nick Cavaleri: Walking into an event with a playlist is truly commiting "entertainment suicide." Every event is unique so it really depends on the group of people. It's all about watching and observing. We are always making crucial decisions every 3 to 4 minutes on what to play next.

                                               

DA: Say you have a bride & groom who don't have "their song"...what are some that you suggest?

                        

NC: It really depends. When we sit down at what we call our "creativity session," we take our clients through an interview process, [and discuss] which artists or bands they personally are interested in. We then start the exploration process. Picking first dances from suggested lists of songs off the Internet is boring, mundane, and does not ever hold any personal validity to the who the bride and groom really are. It's all about them, and spending the time to make sure it fits who they are.

                                    

DA: What are some of the biggest trends you've noticed in wedding entertainment right now? (I had a customized red carpet & backdrop at my own recent wedding!)

                               

NC: I will quote a lyric from a song here..."It's not so bad being trendy, everyone who looks like me is my friend, please don't hate me because I'm trendy, they are not gonna laugh at me again." The biggest trend in the past 5 years has been uplighting, hands down. It transforms any room into a new and unique place. BUT...do you want to transform a room that has tons of character to it into a different place? That's one of the reasons we book a facility, because of the way it looks. Don't get me wrong, some rooms need it...but not one that's overlooking the ocean or the Manhattan skyline. I have [also] done a couple of waterwalls lately, and they are pretty cool...projecting images on a stream of water has a very grounded, earthy feeling to me. I also did a disco ball once...throwbacks are always really cool!

And there you have it...a ringing Stylewhipped endorsement of our new favorite DJ's. So if you're planning a wedding or important event (in the NJ area or anywhere else for that matter - I'm sure Nick will happily add a few more states to his roster!), definitely keep Imagine Entertainment in mind. Because I have a feeling you won't find warmer, more dedicated, more experienced entertainers for your special day.

~ Alison

Jennifer Corcione: A Grammys Draft Pick Worth Sharing!

Although I have never really shared this with anyone, I think you, my trusty reader, should be in on my little secret: I prep for the Grammys the way a football fan preps for the Super Bowl. While I haven’t always watched it every single year (trust me, I try), mainly due to other pressing engagements, when it comes to the season for music awards, I am ready. I read every category over, familiarizing myself with the artists that the industry deems worthy of recognition. I know their strengths, weaknesses, best singles, worst moments, and everything in between!

I always calculate that the Best New Artist is more than likely going to be the one nominee that I’m not familiar with, while the Album of the Year is one that I haven’t bought yet, but would pick immediately. (And I normally hit the mute button on the Country category, sorry. Just not really my type of music; I am getting better though!) But that doesn’t deter me, because I still have my thoughts and opinions as to who should win….and who will win. Therefore, as a special treat this week, I will present to you a little mini-series of my picks for the top four (since weighing in on every one will take a whole year) categories! (I promise, you’ll love it.)

First and foremost, let’s start with Best New Artist. (I’m saving the big one, Album of the Year, for later.) While hip-hop and rap have not made it onto my radar in years, I can’t discount its ever-present influence in the category with two phenomenal nominees (that I have never really listened to—well, ever.) I mean, they have to be great if they’ve made it here, right? But then aside from Nicki Minaj & J. Cole, there are three completely different genres to choose from. You have The Band Perry (country), Skrillex (Electronic Dance), and my personal favorite Bon Iver (indie folk).

So who has a chance? Well, if we were going purely on name, Nicki Minaj could clearly take it. I’ve heard snippets of her hit songs and while I’m sure to her fans she is a genius, (even though her music just doesn’t appeal to me.) J. Cole embodies the rap/hip-hop scene that currently influences most of the music we hear on the radio today. But then there’s also something to be said for The Band Perry, since country always carry the allure of great story-telling…and they’ve been on fire this year with their big hit, “If I Die Young”. The music is actually quite good, something I would not normally place on my iPod, but still good. DJ Skrillex has quite the following as part of the club scene. Strangely enough, his avant-garde metal approach to the electronic sound really draws me in. He takes the role of a DJ and creates rhythms and beats unlike those I have ever heard. And of course, Bon Iver has really come around with their 2011 self-titled release; the genre of folk finally having more of a voice in the Grammy scene pleases me greatly.   

Jenn’s Pick: Bon Iver. Justin Vernon has put in his dues and I want to see them shine, enough said.

Who will most likely win: Nicki Minaj. Clearly, she’s popular and while it breaks my rule of not knowing the artist who wins, the trend of female artists might grant her a better chance to snag the coveted award.

The Wild-card: DJ Skrillex. With the way music has been moving, the lines between genres have been blurred. From people remixing his songs with artists such as Adele and Katy Perry, there seems to be no limits to his music. (As an added treat, to hear a killer mash-up of Adele’s “Someone Like You” and Skrillex's remix of “Cinema” by Benny Benassi, please go and check out this link: http://soundcloud.com/coinjar/someone-like-you-adele-vs.)

 

~Jenn

 

***Stay tuned as I share more picks with all of you throughout the week!***

 

Playing Without Regrets: An Interview with Violinist Ray Chen

Imagine this life: playing sold-out concerts around the globe, winning prestigious awards, and sitting front row at Fashion Week in Milan, all by the age of twenty-two. For most, this is a dream. For Ray Chen, a world-class violinist, this is reality. Born in Taiwan, but raised in Australia, Ray began showing an affinity for music at an early age. At three years old, Ray placed a toy guitar under his chin and began to play it with a chopstick, causing his parents to upgrade him to a violin. Within four years of picking up his instrument, he played as a soloist with the Queensland Philharmonic Orchestra and at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Japan.

So naturally, I was a bit intimidated before my phone call with Ray Chen this past week. He was very down to earth and genuine. As if he needed another skill to add to his laundry list, Ray was a charming conversationalist.

Ray told me his trip to the Olympics is what “propelled [his] desire to become an international concert violinist,” proving that passion can develop at any age.  Because Ray is a personable and motivated performer, he has attracted a young fan base. When I asked him about his younger fans, he graciously said, “I’m happy there’s young people coming to my concerts. I think the audience represents the performer.”

While I was talking with Ray, I found my opinions of classical music changing. His unique sound is attributed to his many interests, as he has been dubbed the “Downtown Virtuoso.” Ray has previously commented on his sound, saying, “Classical music is often put on a pedestal and admired from afar. I love bringing it downtown, mixing it with fashion, digital technology, urban lifestyle, and – gasp! pop culture. I love seeing my fan’s faces and making them smile.” If that doesn’t qualify him as a heartthrob, I don’t know what does.

In 2009, Ray won the Queen Elizabeth Violin Competition, which he calls the “Violin Olympics.” He claims that this skyrocketed his career, providing him with “confidence, a recording contract, and all these engagements,” which have taken him around the world to share his music. When I asked him about his favorite destinations, he admitted that for him, “it’s the people that make the place.” He noted Berlin, Munich, and Paris as personal favorites. In order to make the most of each city, Ray admits to adding on “an extra day to enjoy myself and catch the sights of the city.”

Like so many of us, Ray likes to enjoy his downtime. He says this allows him to “enjoy the music, which can be difficult when you are running around and you’re so busy. The everyday stuff kind of wears you down.” He unwinds by exercising and enjoying good food. “I love to go on cruises, go to the beach, hang out with friends, and just have a good time,” he added.   

Aside from travelling, his interests also include fashion, as he recently attended the Giorgio Armani show at Italian Fashion Week. He likens fashion to music, stating “there’s no right or wrong, so to speak. But there’s definitely different styles, as well as good and bad taste.” Fashion and style have been a growing interest for him, as he exuberantly revealed, “It’s really related to music. It’s an art.”

What better way to further his interest in fashion and artistry than to come to New York City? On February 7^th, Ray Chen is performing at Le Poisson Rouge to promote his new album. When I asked him about New York, he raved, “So many musicians and artists live in New York. It’s such a central place. Sometimes I wonder why I’m not living there.” This coming week might just convince him, as he’ll be sharing his talents at a concert that is kicking off New York Fashion Week, bringing two forms of artistry together.

Still not sure because it’s classical music? Come out and see him perform. You’ll be seeing a performer living for the moment, with “no regrets,” he claims. From my interaction with Ray, it’s clear that he plays his music the way he lives his life: with joy and vivacity.

-- Guest Writer Carol Lena for Stylewhipped.com 

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Editor's Note: Ray's album is now available for pre-sale here...don't waste one minute getting your copy! ~ Alison.

Jennifer Corcione: Practice Makes Perfect for Buika!

While I may know more about music than the average listener, there are still moments that I listen to something new and have my world turned upside down. Sometimes by an artist that I know and love…other times by someone new. Today, we focus on the latter and case in point: the moment I was asked to write about Buika and her guest vocalist performance at Carnegie Hall.

This show marked the first performance in the US featuring Buika as a guest vocalist with famous Cuban pianist, Chucho Valdés. Prior to this show, both Buika & Valdés collaborated in 2010 on El Ultimo Trago (The Last Drink), resulting in a Latin Grammy for “Best Traditional Tropical Album.” When asked about working with Valdés, Buika was happy to share her enthusiasm.  “It is an amazing experience,” said Buika. “I feel very accomplished to be performing with the great Chucho.”

Born & raised in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, Buika was immersed in style of traditional “cante” Flamenco, a style of music familiar to the area; this created an interesting musical influence, as Buika’s family originated from Equatorial Guinea. Later on, Buika would add her own twist on Flamenco & coplas, infusing jazz and House to her style.  

Yet contrary to popular belief, Buika did not start out as a singer. “I actually never dreamed about becoming a singer, I was a drummer,” said Buika. “It just happened that I was a very bad drummer and a really good singer.”

Her ability to sing with such soul and emotion brought Buika many opportunities to perform in various Spanish & American clubs as she perfected her craft. One particularly interesting gig included the chance to be a Tina Turner impersonator in Las Vegas, an artist that initially Buika was not really familiar with.

“I was in Vegas, I needed work and I found this job opening,” shared Buika. “At the time I didn’t even know much about Tina Turner.” While she may not have known much about Tina Turner, Buika performed as the iconic diva at The Luxor, Harrah’s & Gold Coast for about four months in Las Vegas.

Fast forward to now: with several albums, a Grammy and even two musical contributions to the Pedro Almodóvar film The Skin I Live In, Buika has decided to give back to the fans with a special contest! The winner, selected by their story that they share with the artist, will have a song written for them by Buika herself!  “[In current times], I think the greatest gift you could give someone is music,” said Buika. (Check out Buika’s website, www.buikamusic.com for full details on the contest!)

As I finished up on this mini Q&A, I was curious to know with all of her recent accomplishments, what was next? Another Grammy? Another movie? Maybe. But I think Buika's answer perfectly sums up what I have learned about her: “My only goal is to keep experiencing life; enjoying every day of this wonderful ride.”  

~Jenn

 

P.S. - I encourage you, my trusty readers, to please check out Buika’s website not only for the contest, but to take a listen to her music. It’s magical, filled with the beauty and emotion that jazz evokes. (And if you’re looking for any particular song suggestions, please take a listen to “Volveras”, “La Niña de Fuego”, and “Hay en la Luz”.  They’ve already become favorites on my current playlist!)

 

Rebecca Gordon: A Sexless Marriage

Since last Monday, I have been fielding all sorts of questions – What time is it? Can you have that to me by 5pm? Which way is North? Do you want a bag for that? But the one I will answer here is: How did you end up writing on this site?  It might not be the most interesting question (or answer), but of all the questions listed above, this is the one I feel best positioned to answer.

I have lived in the same apartment building for over 7 years. Not a big deal for most normal people, but this beats any other place I have lived as an adult by 5 years.  Taking the elevator with the same people year after year means you sometimes get to know your neighbors without actually knowing them – take Ellen and her parents:  After taking the elevator with her every weekday morning, I know where she goes to school, where they spend their summer weekends, that she hates shoe shopping (“That will change” I said to her once) and that she frequently loses the cap to her chapstick (this makes her parents slightly angry). Do I know Ellen’s last name? Or her parents’ first names? Of course not. Unless her parents are called Ellen’s Mom and Ellen’s Dad.  I am lucky to have a few friends living in my building and we frequently share stories about these people we know but don’t know – what is the deal with the family that rents four apartments on the top floor? Have you seen that jerk throw his car keys at the doormen and ask them to watch that his car doesn’t get ticketed? Why does that old lady sit in the lobby reading catalogs and eating salt directly out of a shaker?  Our collective bits of information have created a series of mini-biographies for these strangers. I never realized I was somebody else’s Ellen – until I shared a cab with Alison.

Because I hate waiting for cabs and I am not shy, I frequently ask people standing outside my building if I can share a cab with them. Even when people clearly have zero interest in spending time with me, they seem unable to tell me they prefer to ride alone. Again, I hate waiting for cabs, so I ignore their non-verbal cues and push forward with cab sharing (they should thank me for saving them money).  I did this on a particularly cold night in December a few years ago when I was headed to a Christmas party on the Upper West Side.  Alison (or friendly-stylish-girl-with-cute-dog as I thought of her before that night) was headed in the same direction, so we split a cab.  Once in the cab, Alison said to me, “so you live with your boyfriend…husband?” This was Alison’s moment to learn more about her Ellen. When I told Alison I live with my friend Todd and we are truly just friends*, she let out a little bit of a laugh and seemed extremely relieved. Apparently Alison and her husband had spent years trying to figure us out and had decided we live in a sexless marriage. They would see us enter or leave the building walking a few steps apart. Todd would not wait for me while I check the mail.** If we were in the elevator together we were definitely not standing next to each other, forget about anything like holding hands.  And then there was the week when Alison’s husband saw both Todd and me out on dates with other people in the neighborhood. Alison and her husband felt bad for us – we were clearly not in love with each other and were both so brazen as to cheat on the other within spitting distance from our building. They just didn’t know we weren’t married or dating or anything more than two friends who are living the dream of every 30-something by having a roommate.  If you could see our amazing apartment (check out the view in the picture) you would instantly understand and then beg to be our third roommate – but I am not sharing a bathroom with you until we share a last name, so you can’t move in unless you want to marry me or, at the very least, go on a few high-chemistry dates with me.

That cab ride meant that the next time Alison and I ran into each other in the elevator or the gym we did more than the usual quick hello or small talk, we actually had conversations and those conversations led to us meeting up for drinks for a few times and, you guessed it, becoming friends. The kind of friends who might look like they don’t have much in common, but actually do. The kind of friends who ask each other to write on their websites (except only one has a site, so here I am). 

Or to put it another way, I am on this site because my friend Alison asked me to write some of my silly stories for her fantastic site. You heard it here first.

~Rebecca

*Everyone is convinced we have made out at least once. We have not. Stop asking. It won’t ever happen. Seriously.

**I love checking the mail.  I wish mailmen delivered on Sunday and I fear the end of Saturday deliveries.

Jennifer Corcione: The Ultimate Holiday Playlist Revival!

Editor's Note: Please welcome our latest guest writer Jennifer Corcione to Stylewhipped! Jenn is our newest columnist and resident Music expert. On the 15th of each month, Jenn will bring you her expert eye (and great love!) for the hottest bands, amazing song finds, interviews with up-and-coming musicians, and lots more. To read Jennifer's complete bio, click here!  ~ Alison.

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During the holidays, as we pull out boxes upon boxes of decorations out of storage and prepare for a month-long string of dinner parties and social gatherings, it’s also important to remember that in the process of adorning the house with garland and cheer for the guests, attention must be paid in even the smallest details…which includes music! But before you head straight for Bing Crosby, The Carpenters or any of those classic hits (played every hour on the hour during the holiday season,) consider sprucing up that party playlist with these 12 newer (and lesser-known) tunes!

Jenn’s Holiday Party Playlist

1) Father Christmas – The Kinks: What can I say? The Kinks shake up the traditional holiday hits with a little punk rock cheer. For the rebellious kid in us all, this song will certainly bring any party to life (or at least cause some festive rioting!) 

2) Christmas Wrapping – The Waitresses: There’s nothing that says a Christmas classic has to be ballad or hymn-like! Adding The Waitresses’ holiday hit to any playlist will guarantee some dancing and one massive sing-a-long at the chorus.

3) I Bet on Flying High – Matt Costa: To mellow the mood at your next gathering, try this track! As a non-traditional number, it’ll be perfect background music while you and your guests sit down to a fabulous feast (or some coffee/after dinner drinks by the tree.)

4) White Christmas – Darlene Love: While I do love all of the new Christmas music coming out, Love’s version makes me feel nostalgic and grateful for a fun re-vamp of the holiday classic Bing Crosby made famous.

5) What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve – Beegie Adair: For the romantic side of the holidays, this jazzy tune has become one of my favorites, especially since it features New Year’s Eve. (On a side note, you can never go wrong with jazz in any playlist, but to kick it up a notch, always look for an artist not in the mainstream. That way, you not only impress your guests with your music knowledge, but also add some fun and interesting pieces to your collection!)

6) The Christmas Waltz – She & Him: This song is a guilty pleasure of mine, because it’s catchy, bouncy and most important, livens up any party! Zooey Deschanel‘s soft and tender vocals really keep to the light & upbeat theme that embody the holiday gathering.

7) Baby, It’s Cold Outside – Brian Setzer & Ann-Margaret: Normally, I’m not a big Rockabilly fan, but when it comes to this particular number, I’m excited about the arrangement and vibe that Setzer creates. True, the original may be quite wonderful in its own right, but a little facelift to a classic never hurt either.

8) Last Christmas – Jimmy Eat World: Wham! may have made this song popular, yet I truly enjoy Jimmy Eat World’s version equally as much (aside from Glee’s cover, of course!) It’s catchy, a little more dance-worthy than the original & Jim Adkins’ voice fills me with festive giddiness!

9) Happy Xmas (War is Over) – Maroon 5: I am super picky when it comes to any remake of a Beatles song, let alone one of John Lennon’s many classics. But Adam Levine restores my faith in the music community with this cover of one of my favorites.  

10) This Christmas – Donny Hathaway: Sometimes, no matter how hard you may search for a perfect remake, you just need to stick to the originals. But if you’re going to go this route, select a holiday standard that doesn’t quite fit into the ‘overplayed on the radio’ list. Donny Hathaway is a perfect example of an underrated artist, bringing soul into the party scene without overpowering the playlist.

11) Blue Christmas – Jack Jezzro featuring Leif Shires: For a bit of flair (and Bossa Nova), trade the Elvis Presley version track for this one. Changing up genres on the classics during the holiday season is a great way to keep your holiday playlist fresh & fun!

12) Auld Lang Syne – Lea Michele: I know I already have a New Year’s song on this list, but what holiday playlist would be complete without the New Year’s song of all songs? It’s true I am a Glee fan, but Lea Michele almost effortlessly works her vocal magic on a quintessential classic. Because let’s face it, the holidays are not the holidays without a rousing rendition of Auld Lang Syne to bring in the New Year!

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May you find that perfect playlist for your next party, whether it be my suggestions (or a few you find on your own!) Happy Holidays everyone!

~ Jenn ~

 

Smile! ...An Interview with Photographer Andrew Werner

A few years ago, I had my picture taken at an event by a young, friendly photographer. It turned out to be one of my best "event" shots, and his name turned out to be Andrew Werner. Fast-forward to a number of collaborations and an invaluable friendship later, I wanted to share Andrew's talent and enthusiasm with you. So I sat down with Andrew (in a very strange midtown diner) and asked him some fun questions (I think you'll find his "Top 10 Ways to Take a Great Photo" super useful). Here's what he had to say...

Stylewhipped: Did you always know you wanted to be a photographer? Or was it a more "organic" process?

Andrew Werner: I actually went to school at the University of Buffalo for Musical Theater, but switched to Communications part-way through and ended up working for the school paper. I found myself taking photos for the paper in addition to writing, and ended up loving it. Then I started taking headshots for friends who were still in the Musical Theater program, along with events both at school and back in New York City after I graduated. And then I started getting compliments on my work and getting hired for more and more events, etc. I found myself loving both the creative and social aspects and just kept going!

SW: What are some of the challenges you face as a young entrepreneur?

AW: If I am photographing a celebrity, I have to hope that they remain popular...if no one wants their picture anymore, I don't have a paycheck! I've also had to figure out how to try being everywhere at once. I have to decide whether to go to a high-profile event that might provide amazing exposure or contacts, or take a job that isn't so glamorous but gives me a definite paycheck. It's also hard to say "no" to friends who don't realize that this isn't a hobby for me...it's a career. So I can't do your headshots for free even if I love you!

SW: What do you love most about your job?

AW: I consider myself so lucky to be doing what I love. I've heard so many stories of people taking an entire lifetime to find their passion, and I discovered it in my early '20's. With that said, I get to go to the coolest parties, work with the hottest celebrities, and meet the "it crowd." People have come to know who I am because of something positive, and I'm thrilled to be somewhat of a "social documentarian"...

SW: If you could photograph one celebrity -- living or dead! -- who would it be and why?

AW: Wow, I'm actually stumped by this one! But I think I'd have to say Marie Antoinette. Can you imagine the hair, the make-up, the jewelry...the attitude?! She'd be a photographer's creative dream!

SW: Ok, so if you could have YOUR photo taken by any other photographer, who would it be?

AW: Oh, I like this question! I'd actually want to be photographed by the man who invented the first version of a camera...Joseph Nicephone Niepce in 1826. I think that it would be amazing to see him witness what technology has developed since then!

SW: Being a stylist, everyone is always asking my advice about what to wear in photos, etc. Can you give my readers your top 10 tips for looking picture-perfect?!

AW: This makes my job easier, so of course I can! Here we go:

1. Know your body...look in a mirror and try out different angles that look good for YOU, not a model who is a professional at posing.

2. Know what styles look good on your body...consult a professional fashion stylist if you're not sure you have it figured out on your own.

3. Unless you are a bride on your wedding day, do not wear white!

4. While white is a no-no, bright colors (in moderation, of course!) look great in a photo. If you're not comfortable in brights, try strong neutrals and use color in accessories (shoes, jewelry, etc).

5. Make sure to blend your make-up!! There is nothing worse than a jawline and a neck that are distinctly divided by a visible line!

6. Glam it up! If you're going to be on a red carpet or are going to a special event, you should feel special! So this is your chance to get your make-up done by a pro, go for the fake eyelashes, etc.

7. Smile. And when you smile, keep it real and keep it white. Your smile and teeth can make or break a photo. My personal suggestion for getting that perfect smile in NYC is a visit with cosmetic dentist Dr. Debra Glassman.

8. Right before the shot is taken, put your shoulders down and your chin level to the floor. This will be the most flattering on just about everyone.

9. Most people really do have a "good side"! Figure out which is yours (ask a friend, look at old photos) and always position yourself accordingly.

10. Know who and what you're wearing...from your dress designer to your lipstick color to your wardrobe and hairstylists, always (always!) give credit where credit is due.

I want to thank Andrew so much for taking the time to talk with me and share his thoughts and worth-their-weight-in-gold tips! If you want to take a closer look at more of Andrew's work, visit his website at www.andrewwernerphotography.com. In addition, Andrew is currently shooting the fabulous world of New York Fashion Week, so if you want to keep up with the shows he's capturing, you can follow him on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Andrew-Werner-Photography/211014941616.

~ Alison

We're Baaaaaack!

For the past year, we have been super busy over here in the land of Stylewhipped, but we have missed sharing our musings with you! And since there is so much going on in the worlds of fashion and lifestyle, we decided we just had to come back. Stylewhipped is also about to be a part of a much bigger (like, um, reeeeally big) project, so we want you, our loyal readers, to be in the know before anyone else!

We're a little out of practice, though, so be patient...we'll have a few posts up each week for now, with exciting new guest columnists and special features being added all the time. So tell your friends to join our email list for the very best of everything "whipped"...

Time to get your style on.

~ Alison