6 Best Music Videos Of 2015

This year we've seen a fair share of twerkers, explosions, and awkward dancing in music videos from all genres. From Taylor Swift to The Weeknd to Drake, we're looking at six of the best music videos that came out this year. Of course their are way more than six, but I certainly wouldn't want to keep you here all day. This list is compiled based on views, charts and other lists from around the web. If you see something that should've made the list but didn't, let me know in the comments!

6. Sia - Elastic Heart

Who could forget Shia LaBeouf and Maddie Ziegler's infamous (and kinda creepy) performance inside of a giant bird cage. Now there was tons of speculation on the meaning of their ensemble including LaBeouf's enacting of a pedophile and even a portrayal of an abusive father/ daughter relationship. Whatever the meaning, their is an immense artistic value to the video that shouldn't be over shadowed by LaBeouf's slightly weird performance. Not to mention Sia's incredible lyrics and vocals that take this video to a whole other level of astonishment.

5. Jack Ü/Justin Bieber- Where Are Ü Now

Probably one of the hugest collaborations of the year was the dynamic DJ duo Skrillex and Diplo known as Jack Ü with everyone's favorite bad boy Justin Bieber. Their song "Where Are Ü Now" quickly blew up soon after release which led to much anticipation for the video. It just so happens that the video was just as epic including shots of Jack Ü fans and their drawings and of course Justin Bieber.

4. Kendrick Lamar- Alright

What's a music video countdown without this creation by Kendrick Lamar. There's something about a music video that actually tells a story and this one definitely taps into Lamar's inner narrator. This video perfectly represents not only the song, but gives a little taste of Lamar's life before (and perhaps during) fame. It's like a mini movie and it is very artistically appreciated. Thanks Kendrick.

3. Drake- Hotline Bling

Okay so I can't be the only one who didn't understand this video. For some reason, this was one of the most viewed videos of the year and I think it was solely based on comedic value. Between the corny beat and wack dance moves, there's no wonder people kept coming back for more. I mean who doesn't want to watch Drake bob and sway in his Tims surrounded by pastel colors? Drake, you're gonna need to explain this one.

2. Justin Bieber- What Do You Mean?

The Biebs asked a lot of questions this year, but apparently everyone loved this question the most. "What Do You Mean" quickly became popular in it's first day of release considering it was JB's comeback video. Not to mention he was shirtless, getting steamy with a gorgeous model, and dropping hints of his love for Selena Gomez in the graffiti background. This was definitely Justin Bieber's year and this video definitely aided in his comeback, making us all Belieb.

1. Taylor Swift- Bad Blood

From models to explosions and other epic bad ass-ery, there's no denying this is the number one video of the year. Whether we hate to admit it or not, Swift has done it again, leaving us wondering how she could ever top herself after the "Shake It Off" video. "Bad Blood" surely does that with star studded cameos, a Kendrick Lamar feature, and a kick ass girl fight. After watching this, you'll  totally get a sense of girl power and want to go join Swift's epic squad.

-Samantha Jo XO

Leave a Comment 2015, Diplo, Drake, Jack U, Justin Bieber, Kendrick Lamar, MBlloggers, Skrillex, Taylor Swift

Share:

Sylvan Esso @ Prospect Park in Brooklyn, NY Review

Last night (7/25/15), BRIC hosted their 37th annual Celebrate Brooklyn concert in the Prospect Park Bandshell in Brooklyn, NY. BRIC is a non- profit organization that provides community events in Brooklyn that reflects its creativity and diversity by presenting performing arts, media programs, and art showcases. As part of their Celebrate Brooklyn Concert last night, BRIC presented the band Porches. and headlining duo Sylvan Esso to the bandshell. The event was FREE, as are most of their events, and the show of course did not disappoint as cliche as that sounds.

The event kicked off with local NY band Porches. Just a small disclaimer, I had no idea who either of these bands were going into this, so this is all completely unbiased. I knew walking into Prospect Park this was going to be hipster central and I'm never super opposed to the scene, I usually listen to bands of the like anyways.

Porches immediately brought me in full force to this ever so obscure culture and I was immersed quickly into a dream like land in hipster heaven. Though I'm not one who likes to be part of any particular scene, I must say I enjoyed this one and I would like to think that Porches set the mood perfectly for the culture and scene I was in. Their Brooklyn indie rock inspired sound was nothing shy of entertaining and to no surprise perfectly displayed the talent the band has outside of studio recordings. There truly is nothing like the sound of actual guitars, bass guitars, drums and even keyboards. To hear the electrifying sound of their music next to the lead singer's edgy (not to mention dreamy) voice and lyrics, really helped create the atmosphere of last nights show eloquently.

For a small venue and not too popular band, there was a HUGE turnout. The line I was on saw 675+ people and the second line on the other side of the park reached over 800 people. With an attendance like this, I needed to understand what the hype was. Maybe it was this ever so popular "hipster" scene and the fact it was in Brooklyn or maybe it was the fact that Sylvan Esso had stolen the hearts of the entire indie rock lovers scene. I think I'll go with the second one. I'm pretty sure all of Brooklyn's youngsters (ages 18- 30) were there and I completely, 100%, full heartedly understand the hype.

Like I said, going into this I had no idea who Sylvan Esso even was and coming out of this I have fallen in love with them. I didn't know a single word to any of the songs and still managed to hum and dance along. To like Sylvan Esso, I feel you must have some sort of eclectic music taste. If not, if you're into the EDM or indie scene, you can find at least 2-3 songs you can absolutely like.

The power pop duo certainly put on an entertaining show for a mic and a synthesizer. Lead singer Amelia Meath brings a funky (in a good way) energy to the show, working the entire stage with her eccentric and occasionally provocative dance moves, much to the crowd's pleasure. Of course her soft melodic folk pipes (much to like of Lana Del Rey and Lilly Allen) beautifully fill the air not to over power, but to accompany the cool tones of their indie dance sound in the most euphoric way. Producer Nick Sanborn, brings equal the amount of energy while on synth and hypes the crowd with the electric dance vibe he creates on synthesizer. There are certainly elements of drum and bass that fill their sound as well, making them easily likable to passing by-ers.

The only way I can describe the show last night would be by comparing it to the feeling of an absolute dream like state of being.  At one point I felt so spaced out and lost in the sound that I became unaware I was even in public anymore. For someone who has never heard a single song it was nearly miraculous to be transported into such a state. It was music that made me love, it made me dream and it made me feel. I think that's all that really matters. It made me feel something. Something not even the most famous and best musicians/artists in the world can make me feel. That was the most crucial thing for me. Sylvan Esso performed and created a new musical experience for me that couldn't be duplicated. Unless by an artist of my top 5 'cause lets face it, no one gets you like your favorites.

Last night I walked away with the best first impression ever made on me by any one person or band. I walked out not only a fan, but a lover of Sylvan Esso. It takes pure talent to shake me like that, and that is what they are. The show was undeniably amazing. The only con I have is the unfortunate run in with a very ignorant, nosy, pretentious hipster local who ultimately gives the scene its stigma. For him I knock a point off. He didn't ruin the experience, but he ruined my view of the hipster culture 'cause he proved the stigma right. Good job, buddy.

I've made some recommendations of my favorite songs from last night below. If you have a chance, check it out and let me know what you think. I don't think their studio album does justice to what they can do live, but I certainly still love the album and these songs specifically. If you ever get a chance to see them live (especially for free) I would advise you strongly consider it.

Rate: 9/10
(For indie/hipster/Brooklyn music lovers)

Sylvan Esso:
Hey Mami
Dreamy Bruises
Dress
Coffee
Uncatena**
(Play It Right- single/most popular song)

** My absolute favorite song by them.

Happy listening!

-- Samantha Jo xo

Leave a Comment Brooklyn, indie, MBlloggers, New York, Porches, Rock, Sylan Esso

Share:

BLI Summer Jam: Meeting Tove Lo and Charli XCX

It's been about over a week now since this happened, but I still felt I should share. Better late then never, amiright? If you read my last post you would know I got a pretty sick internship with 106.1 BLI on Long Island and I have to say I am reaping the benefits especially, at last weekends Summer Jam! I felt the need to share my experience so far while interning for those who may have a similar career interest or for those who want to know what hard work and dedication look like.

If you live anywhere near or on Long Island there's no way you haven't heard about BLI's Summer Jam last weekend. Artists like Nick Jonas, Tove Lo, Carly Rae Jepson, Charli XCX and headliner Flo Rida were all in attendance plus a whole lot more if you can believe it. Shout out to my friends in the Nick Tangorra Band who played the concert (their first time performing at Jones Beach; so proud of them!), you guys killed it!

As an intern for BLI I obviously had to work the event which was long (sometimes grueling) and completely worth my while. I've never experienced anything like this before and I had totally underestimated the day. I started at 7 AM with the street team hanging up signs all over Jones Beach (theater) and just so happened to catch R5's sound check while doing so (see above picture).

Towards the start of the show I was handing out flyers and somehow managed to have to walk Kalin and Myles into the backstage area. NBD. After that, the rest of the interns and I weaseled our way in to working the Meet and Greet table where we handed out meet and greet passes to winning listeners. Of course what's working a Meet and Greet table if I don't get to meet and greet any artists. So, I also had the opportunity of walking the winners backstage where I evidently met Charli XCX (baddest chick ever), Tove Lo (the sweetest and probably sexiest human there) and watched Flo Rida walk off stage very sweaty and all muscular and stuff.

Please excuse my awful appearance. But how cool does Charli look?!

I also got to catch some killer performances by Nick Jonas, Carly Rae Jepson (you could only imagine what happened during "Call Me Maybe") and my new fave Tove Lo. Along the way there were some other rewarding experiences, but I want to keep it brief.

Me, Tove Lo, and a street teamer Sean. Again excuse me.

The show ended around 10:30 PM and after that meant clean up time. We didn't get out of there until 12:30 AM and I didn't even get home until 2. It was a super long day and I've never been more tired in my entire life, but I couldn't possibly have had a more rewarding and special experience. I love knowing that I've worked hard and that my work is appreciated and that in turn leads to some amazing experiences. BLI didn't have to let me meet the artists. Yet, they did and they've given me an experience of a life time that I couldn't possibly forget. So yes, I worked an 18 hour day, my body was aching, I almost fell asleep driving home, but this is the real world. This is everything I hope to be doing and more (hopefully as a jock) in the future. To know I'm working towards my goal and being given these opportunities is truly a blessing.

I'll end my rant here. I just hoped you enjoyed this long-ish post on a super cool experience I've recently had and that it could inspire you to pursue whatever it is you want to do so, you can have cool experiences too. Hope you all are enjoying your summer so far and maybe your summer internship as well!

Did any of you go to the show? If so or even if not, let me know what you thought of the show or who you would want to see play in the comments!

-- Samantha Jo XO

Leave a Comment BLI, Charli XCX, Concert, MBlloggers, Music, Nick Jonas, Summer Jam, Tove Lo

Share: