Michael Giacchino

I didnt talk much about the actual movie, "Up" the other day, because all Pixar films are excellent and need no acceptance from me (or the general public).  One thing about the movie I want to point out was the music.  Michael Giacchino suprised me when the credits rolled.  I had always known him as the go to guy for J.J. Abrams, but didnt know that he was chosen to do the Pixar film.  Not only that, but it was not his first film for the company, he also composed "The Incredibles", and "Ratatouille".  

This new soundtrack is very memorable, as it nails the emotional scenes.

If you find you like this, or if youre interested in new soundtracks, check out Giacchino's 'Star Trek'.  That and 'Ratatouille' are both very good.

Rocky Dawuni - The Interview

Today, I had an amazing opportunity.  My friend Emily asked if I was interested in coming to her home and filming an interview with Rocky Dawuni.  You might recall I wrote about Rocky a few weeks ago after going to a show of his at the House of Blues.  

Not only is Rocky a fantastic musician, but he is also an incredibly insightful and captivating speaker.  As you can tell, it was no only extremely interesting, but very fun as well.  He also gave us a sneak performance of a song from his new upcoming album. 

 I have not yet started editing the piece, but here are some screenshots.  I did some very quick color correction, so they dont look as fantastic as I'm hoping the actual video to look.  But I'm excited to share it with you.  

Again, if you are interested in knowing more about Rocky and his music, check out his myspace: 

http://www.myspace.com/rockydawunimusic or find him on Itunes.

Also, we talked about Asa (who Ive written about before on here as well and grew up not far from Rocky did).... And he mentioned that the two of them singing on stage together might be something on the horizon.  That would totally rock my socks off!

Someone To Look Out For - A Little Bit of Asa

So! This entry is about music and my first in a series about people to keep an eye out for.  I would like to introduce you to (unless you have the pleasure of knowing her already) a musician (singer/songwriter) named Asa.  She is from Nigeria, and her name "Asa" means "Hawk" in Yoruba.  

I cannot carry a tune, play an instrument (tried piano for 7+ years, and if I was to sit in front of one now... MIGHT get away with chopsticks), or even begin to understand how a composer can create a soundtrack.  BUT, I love music.  I am always playing music, wherever I am.... my setting always has a soundtrack.  

Every so often, a singer or composer creates work that really takes me on a journey elsewhere.  Asa, was introduced to me by my friend Emily (whose blog "Get in Emily's Head" can be found on my list of blogs to read) and I cannot tell you enough how much I love Asa's work.  She recently won France's most prestigious music award, the Prix Constantin, and too many of us Americans have no clue who she is!  

So, if you like music that is relaxing, insightful, and fits perfectly with low lighting and a glass of good cabernet.... This is your girl.  Her album, titled "Asa" can be found on Itunes.  Check it out.  Everyone I introduce her music to, loves it.  She is really someone to watch out for, and  I have a feeling (not just a hope) that this girl will be big news.

Rocky Dawuni

Rocky Dawuni is a reggae singer who performed at the house of blues in Hollywood this past Sunday night.  Lilly, our friend Emily, and I all went along. Rocky is an energetic performer who is being called "the next Bob Marley".  Whether or not you agree, listen to him on myspace at http://www.myspace.com/rockydawunimusic Or find him on Itunes: Rocky Dawuni.