Falco - Rock Me Amadeus

"Rock Me Amadeus" is a 1986 song by the Austrian pop musician Falco from his album Falco 3. It topped the singles charts in both United States and the United Kingdom and was Falco's only major hit in the United States. The song is ranked #44 in VH1's 100 Greatest One-Hit Wonders and #87 in VH1's 100 Greatest Songs of the 80s.

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Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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La Toya's Video Tribute To Michael

I know I'm drowning you all in Toy this week but given that she only releases new material once every second decade, I hope you'll forgive me. The latest milestone in La Toya's stunning comeback is a moving video tribute (above) to Michael. The Pope of Pop talks about keeping her brother's dream alive and promotes one of his favourite AIDS charities - by plugging her latest single! It's all very sweet. There's a strange innocence about La Toya that reminds me of Michael. I don't think it enters her pretty little head that some people might find her actions slightly tasteless. I honestly believe she's just trying to be a good sister and this is the only way she knows how. By the way, how completely fucking amazing does our Goddess look? Toy Toy has always been a vision of heavenly beauty but she looks absolutely breathtaking here. I swear she looks half Janet's age - and weight. I love the new hair and I think she's had some of her nose reinstated. Either that or they filmed this through a lens with enough Vaseline to lube up Cheryl Cole's prolapsed arsehole.Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Maino - All the Above (feat. T-Pain)

"All the Above" is the second single from Brooklyn rapper Maino's second album If Tomorrow Comes.... The song features R&B singer T-Pain and is Maino's first to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, where it debuted at #54.

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Lorena Herrera - Mexican Trash Goddess

Some of you might remember that I started learning Spanish earlier this year at a shady Mexican school run by Colombian refugees. And no, they didn't mention any of that shit in the brochure! Unfortunately I had to drop out due to that whole unfortunate falling into a coma business but I finally re-enrolled and spent Tuesday night learning the names of Mexican vegetables. As undeniably fascinating as that was, I decided to dig deeper into Mexico's rich cultural heritage and hit my friend Joe up for some musical suggestions. I love all the music he sent me but one diva absolutely took my breath away with her unparalleled beauty and stunning vocal talent. Yes, I'm talking about the vision of elegance and class that is Lorena Herrera. Paulina Rubio and Thalia can fuck right off - I've officially found my Mexican muse!



Lorena really knows how to put on a show!
There's so much to love about Lorena. According to her bio, the luscious diva is a "highly acclaimed" actress who has starred in more than 50 movies. I can't be sure but I'm guessing the majority of those co-starred a donkey and were filmed in Tijuana. Somewhere along the way, lovely Lorena became a TV star and eventually began a music career in 1996. Since then she has released 6 albums and filmed some of the classiest video clips ever to grace youtube. Her latest single "Ya" is a perfect example (below). The Mexican beauty doesn't let anything as mundane as middle age (she's 42) stop her rolling around semi-naked with a snake or sucking on some guy's bulging pecs. Happily the song is just as classy as the video. "Ya" is a gloriously low brow dance anthem that sounds like something Melissa Tkautz recorded and ultimately rejected for "Lost & Found". Yes, it's THAT amazing! Apparently Lorena just released a new album in Mexico and I'm dying to hear it. Until I hunt down that masterpiece, I'll have to make do with youtube and her stunning soft porn website. If anyone has any other Mexican pop suggestions, please let me know!


Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Boyz II Men - It's So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday

"It's So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday" is an a cappella rendition by contemporary R&B Motown group Boyz II Men from their first album, Cooleyhighharmony, released in 1991. The song reached #1 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song has been featured on several films including Lethal Weapon 3 (1992) and Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay (2008).

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Aerosmith - Janie's Got a Gun

"Janie's Got a Gun" is the second single by American hard rock band Aerosmith's album Pump in 1989. It peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in 1990, and also made it to #2 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. The song won the band their first Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1991.

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Aerosmith - Cryin'

"Cryin'" is the fourth single by American hard rock band Aerosmith from their hugely successful 1993 album Get a Grip. The song spent 20 weeks in the Top 40 of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 (the most for any Aerosmith single), where it peaked at #12, and #1 on the U.S. Mainstream Rock Tracks chart (where it remained for six weeks). The video became one of the most requested videos in 1993, and earned the band several MTV Video Music Award in 2004 including Best Video of the Year, Best Group Video and Viewer's Choice.

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Aaliyah - Are You That Somebody?

"Are You That Somebody?" is a song by American singer Aaliyah, recorded for the soundtrack to the 1998 comedy film Dr. Dolittle. Timbaland, who co-wrote and produced the song, also performed a guest rap for it. The song was listed 387th on The 500 Greatest Songs Since You Were Born, a list of songs compiled by Blender magazine.

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Chingy - Right Thurr

"Right Thurr" is a 2003 hip hop single from American Hip-Hop recording artist and actor Chingy. The song became the summer anthem in 2003 and Chingy became an overnight sensation. It peaked at #2 on the U.S. Hot 100 and #17 on the United Kingdom pop charts.

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Jessica Simpson - Take My Breath Away

"Take My Breath Away" is the third single by American pop singer Jessica Simpson from her 2004 album In This Skin. Simpson chose to cover this song because she felt that it was the theme song of her relationship with her then husband, Nick Lachey. The song became a number-twenty hit on the Billboard Hot 100, as well as a top ten hit on the Top 40 Tracks and the Top 40 Mainstream charts.

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Murphy Lee - Wat Da Hook Gon Be (feat. Jermaine Dupri)

"Wat Da Hook Gon Be" is a 2003 hit single by American rapper Murphy Lee from his 2003 album Murphy's Law. The song features rapper Jermaine Dupri.

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STOP PRESS: More Stunning Toy News!

Somebody pass me a Valium! The Church of La Toya has just rocked my world with this report:

"La Toya recorded her first music video in over 20 years on Sunday. The clip was directed by Eric Bute and director of photography was Hollywood veteran Reed Smoot. La Toya had three costume changes for the video, all of which were completely white ensembles, keeping with the theme of the single cover. It was shot at the Golden Oak Ranch in Santa Clarita, California, which is owned by The Walt Disney Company and frequently used for film production."

I just know Toy Toy is gonna bring her "A" game to this clip! I'm expecting a variety of crazy hats, stunning costume changes and at least one incredibly tasteful cameo by Michael Jackson's ghost. Given the ranch setting, I'm also hoping to see Toy take a roll in the hay and flash her big back door to a group of lustful cowboys. If the prospect of a new video from the Duchess of Dance isn't enough to give you a screaming toygasm, check out this little tidbit:

"We're also excited for an upcoming project we're working on with a UK record label. We'll have an album full of unreleased and rare La Toya material coming your way soon!"

By unreleased and rare, I think they mean the widely available "Startin' Over" with a few new tracks the Pope of Pop recorded recently including the much talked about but never heard "Love". Not that I'm complaining. I don't care if they re-release "Bad Girl" for the 147th time - anything would be an unexpected and gratefully received treat! Oh and for those of you that didn't believe, roll up your sleeves because The Church has also revealed that "Home" is now Toy's most downloaded song ever. I don't know if I can handle all this stunning $ucce$$!

While we wait for Toy's "Home" video to debut, let's wander down memory lane to 1984 when La Toya released her first and, in my opinion, best video. "Heart Don't Lie" is a much loved camp classic and remains Toy Toy's biggest US hit reaching a lofty #56 on the Billboard chart. I'm sure the video played a large part in the song's success. Only our Goddess could get away with playing a school girl despite pushing 30 and bring in a team of dancing mime artists!



Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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BLACKstreet - No Diggity (feat. Dr. Dre)

"No Diggity" is a 1996 song by American R&B group BLACKstreet and featuring Dr. Dre. The song reached #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and ranked at #91 on Rolling Stone and MTV: 100 Greatest Pop Songs. It won the 1998 Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals and was nominated for Best R&B Song. The song was also ranked at #32 on VH1's 100 Greatest Songs of the '90s.

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Pink - Get the Party Started

"Get the Party Started" is the first single from Pink's second album, Missundaztood (2001). It became an international hit and reached the top ten in many countries. It is often considered one of Pink's signature songs. The song was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2003 in the category of Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

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Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Christina Aguilera - Ain't No Other Man

"Ain't No Other Man" is the lead single from Christina Aguilera's third studio album Back to Basics (2006). The song was a substantial success, reaching #2 on the World Chart, #6 in the U.S., and #2 in U.K. It went on to win the 2007 Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

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Ashanti - Foolish

"Foolish" is the 2002 platinum selling debut by R&B/pop singer Ashanti from her self-titled album, Ashanti. The song was a huge international hit with top ten entries in Canada, The United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. The video was nominated for Best Female Video, Best R&B Video and Best New Artist at the 2002 MTV Video Music Awards. The song was also nominated for Best R&B Vocal Performance - Female at the 2003 Grammy Awards.

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Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Mýa - Case of the Ex

"Case of the Ex" is the second single by American R&B singer Mýa from her second album Fear of Flying (2000). The song is considered as Mýa's breakthrough hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100, number-one on the Australian Singles Chart, and number three in the United Kingdom.

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Blue Cantrell - Hit 'em Up Style (Oops!)

"Hit 'em Up Style (Oops!)" is the debut single from American R&B singer Blu Cantrell's debut album, So Blu (2001). The song became Cantrell's most successful single in the U.S. to date and her only single to enter the top forty of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 so far. It peaked at number two for two weeks behind Usher's "U Remind Me".

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Usher - U Remind Me

"U Remind Me" is the first single from Usher's 2001 album 8701. The single topped the United States Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart on July 7, 2001 and reached the top five in the United Kingdom and Australia. The song won Usher his first Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 2002.

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Ace of Base - The Sign

"The Sign" is a 1993 dance-pop song and international smash hit by the band Ace of Base. The song spent six non-consecutive weeks as number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and also reached Number two in the United Kingdom.

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Fat Joe - What's Luv? (feat. Ashanti & Ja Rule)

"What's Luv?" is a hit single by rapper Fat Joe featuring singer Ashanti and rapper Ja Rule. The single peaked at #4 in the UK, and peaked and stayed for five weeks at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 on April 20, 2002.

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Baby Bash - Baby I'm Back (feat. Akon)

"Baby I'm Back" (featuring Akon) is the first track from Baby Bash's second studio album, Super Saucy (2005). The song peaked at #11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, making the album his most successful to date.

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The Killers - Somebody Told Me

"Somebody Told Me" is a song performed by The Killers from the group's debut album Hot Fuss (2004). The single peaked at #51 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. In Australia, the song was ranked #4 on Triple J's Hottest 100 of 2004.

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A Toymentous Occasion!

Today is a toytastic moment in the history of pop music. Mark the 28th of July down in your diary as the day the (highly disputed) Queen of Pop released her first single in over a decade. Yes, bitches - the legendary La Toya Jackson is back! I've been waiting for this moment ever since Toy Toy first announced that she was startin' over way back in 2002 and now after a decade of false starts, she's finally ready to throw it down and put the haters in check. It's just a shame that it took such sad circumstances for the High Priestess of Pop to reclaim her throne. With any luck, the overwhelmingly positive response to "Home" will inspire Toy to get her big back door into the studio to record new tracks. That is after she hunts down Michael's killer and forces Debbie Rowe to get correct. In the meantime, I've put together a special one off mid-week Pop Panel to celebrate the release of "Home". Today's completely unbiased judges are:

Bomitoni (US) writer of Milk Carton Pop Stars
Chicago Sexbox (US) writer of Chicago Sexbox
Jamie (UK) writer of Tat Parade
Jay (UK) writer of Postcards From Puerto Rico
Mike (AUS) author of this classy blog
Tommie (Sweden) writer of Donna Martin Graduates

Here's what this fabulous group of high brow music scholars had to say about Toy Toy's heartbreaking tribute to Michael Jackson.

Bomitoni: Toy has touched many with her music over the years. This previously unreleased gem is a true testament to what Toy truly is, a music force to be reckoned with. What a lovely tribute to Michael Jackson! 5/5

Chicago Sexbox: Somewhere up above Michael Jackson is smiling down from a celestial Neverland as he is greeted by the sounds of La Toya Jackson's power ballad and soon to be epic anthem for Michael Jackson fans everywhere, "Home". Michael's closest and most talented sister releases this gem from her vault to not only honor her brother and the childhood home they shared growing up but to donate all proceeds to Michael's favorite AIDS charity. While Janet is probably already corrupting poor Michael's children with her collection of S&M anal porn, La Toya appeases the King of Pop's spirit much like she has done with her fans with her previous musical ventures. For those of you who didn't believe roll up your sleeves......cuz La Toya is throwing down with her new spiritual and uplifting sound! 5/5

Jamie: For many years the thinking man's Jackson has tantalised us with pop gems like 2003's Billboard Dance/Club Chart smash "Just Wanna Dance", "Free The World", and her ghetto throwdown to pimps and dealers across the globe - the seminal "I Don't Play That". On her latest opus La Toya gives us a glimpse of the good old days of growing up in the Jackson family home surrounded by the only people she ever really knew. It's just lovely, syrupy, over the top, and melancholy all at the same time. What a poignant and fitting time to release this fan favourite which serves as a perfect tribute to Michael, the King of Pop - 5/5!

Jay: The Pope Of Pop returns to bless us all with a heavenly anthem and a touching tribute to her recently departed brother. What makes this even more touching is Queen Toy showing her forgiveness for him once again sabotaging her career as him dropping his clogs has ensured the much anticipated "Startin' Over" has been delayed indefinitely... just like he ruined "Night Time Lover" and stole "Thriller"! Though I still think a re-issue of "Free The World" would have been far more fabulous. 5/5

Mike: Music fans are used to Jackson sisters being pudgy frumps like Janet and Rebbie. La Toya's curse has always been her exquisite looks and unrivalled sex appeal but hopefully the tragedy of Michael's death will allow people to look past her divine body and finally embrace the powerhouse vocals that have driven Toy Soldiers wild for three decades. "Home" truly is a toyriffic tune. The production is epic, the lyrics are tender and Toy Toy turns it out vocally. A work of genius. 5/5

Tommie: A true triumph in good taste and artistry! Anyone who disagrees has clearly listened to Janet's pussy ballads for too long and shouldn't be taken seriously. 5/5

Total: 30/30

That's highest score in Pop Panel history! I always knew Toy Toy had it in her. "Home" is now available from US and UK iTunes. Please do the poor bitch a favour and download it! The rest of us can bask in the glory of Toy's stunning "Home" by watching the video (below).

Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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'N Sync - Girlfriend (feat. Nelly)

"Girlfriend" is the third and final single from boy band 'N Sync's third album, Celebrity. It was the last single the group released together and eventually peaked at #5 in the US and #2 in the UK.. This is the remix version of the song which features rapper Nelly. Unlike previous 'N Sync releases, there is heavy hip-hop influence in this track.

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Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Fall Out Boy - Sugar, We're Goin Down

"Sugar, We're Goin Down" is the first single released from Fall Out Boy's album From Under the Cork Tree (2005). The single reached #8 in the U.S., becoming the band's first top 10 single. This single launched the band into the MTV mainstream, with follow-up hits such as "Dance, Dance" and "I Don't Care".

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Beyoncé - Naughty Girl

"Naughty Girl" is the fourth single from Beyoncé's debut solo album, Dangerously in Love (2003). The song reached #3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and received positive responses from critics. The video won the Best Female Video award at the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards.

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Ryan Cabrera - On the Way Down

"On The Way Down" is the debut single of American pop rock musician Ryan Cabrera released from his 2004 studio album, Take It All Away. The song won 2006 ASCAP Pop Award for most performed song of that year. It reached #1 on airplay charts and peaked at number 15 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 on October 5, 2004.

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Kelly Clarkson - Miss Independent

"Miss Independent" is the second single from Kelly Clarkson's multi-platinum debut album, Thankful. The song received a nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance at the 2004 Grammy Awards, but lost out to Christina Aguilera's "Beautiful".

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OutKast - Ms. Jackson

"Ms. Jackson" is the second single by OutKast from their fourth album Stankonia. It topped the U.S. charts for the week of February 17, 2001, and also reached #1 in Germany and #2 in the United Kingdom. The song went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2002.

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Jennifer Lopez - Jenny from the Block

"Jenny from the Block" (featuring Jadakiss and Styles P) is the lead single from American singer Jennifer Lopez's third studio album, This Is Me... Then (2002). The song reached number three on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Canadian Charts.

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Aaliyah - Try Again

"Try Again" is the second single by American singer Aaliyah from the Romeo Must Die soundtrack. The song was one of her most successful songs in both the American charts and the international charts. It was nominated in 43rd Grammy Awards for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance and two Soul Train Awards for Best R&B/Soul Single and R&B/Soul or Rap Music Video. It also won two MTV Awards for Best Female Video and Best Video from a Film.

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Christina Aguilera - Fighter

"Fighter" is the third single from Christina Aguilera's second album Stripped (2003). The single peaked at number twenty on the Billboard Hot 100, where it became Aguilera's ninth U.S. top-twenty single. "Fighter" also reached number three in the United Kingdom and Canada, and number five in Australia.

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Peter Wilson On Mandy Smith - Interview

I've always loved Mandy Smith. She was the bad girl of Stock Aitken Waterman. While Kylie wore pearls and innocently chirped "I Wouldn't Change A Thing", 17 year old Mandy posed for pictures in her knickers and belted out saucy anthems like "Victim Of Pleasure". Despite her incredible lack of UK chart success, I honestly believe Mandy's debut album is a Hit Factory classic. "I Just Can't Wait" (the lead single) is a gorgeous little pop tune that would have raced to #1 if someone less controversial had recorded it, while the ultra camp Daize Washbourne penned "Boys And Girls" was a deserved #12 smash hit (in Italy). My personal favourite is "He's My Boy", which has to rank as one of Stock Aitken Waterman's most intoxicatingly tacky efforts. Unfortunately, Mandy seemed to dropped off the face of the earth in the late 80s and never released another album. I always wondered what happened to her and now I know thanks to Peter Wilson! Apart from producing Amanda Lear and Haywoode, Peter also found the time to interview Mandy about the PWL years and the recent re-release of her album. He also asks Mandy about recording "Got To Be Certain" before Kylie, which I found particularly fascinating. If you want to read more about this fabulous diva, check out the full version of the interview over at the Hit Factory Forum. I'm just printing the highlights (with Peter's permission).

We’ve missed you! Where have you been for the past 20 years?
That's really nice, thank you! Wow! Where do I start? After signing a record deal in the USA, I became quite ill. I already had quite a weak immune system, so with a heavy workload and lots of stress from personal life issues and UK press, my mind and body could take no more. I had to take an early exit from the music biz with a heavy heart. Over the years I have concentrated on getting better and living a life doing the things that I've always wanted to do, like, getting married (twice), having children (like my beautiful son Max aged 8) being a make-up artist, and working with a charity called Five Star Appeal. I've taken time out to enjoy being a mum and just spend time living and experiencing things that I didn't when I was younger.

How did your signing with PWL come about?
I was 16 at the time and my manager had a call from Pete Waterman's office to see if we could set up a meeting and talk about making a single which is every young girl's dream. I had heard it was the idea of Pete Burns from the group Dead or Alive, who had seen and read about me and put this notion to PW. So, many thanks to PB really.

What was the first song you recorded with SAW?
I remember my first day in the studio with Mike Stock and Matt Aitken, I was nervous but tried not to show it. I was also really excited at having such a great opportunity and experience second to none. The first song I recorded was "Terry" by Twinkle, it didn't get released back then, so I went on to record "I Just Can't Wait" which was my first PWL release. "Terry", by the way, has just been added to my recent re-released album for those of you who would like to have a listen.

What is your favourite song on the album? And when did you last listen to it?
I listened to it recently, because they sent me a copy due to the re-release. My son wanted to hear it, so I put it on and gave him a mini Mandy concert just to make him giggle! I really enjoyed listening to (and singing) "Positive Reaction".

If you could have recorded any other SAW song, what would it have been?
All true SAW fans will know this track, it was by a band called Brilliant and the track was called "Love Is War". When I used to hang out at the studio, I would watch MTV or have a nose around - looking at the albums that had been recorded or get previews of the new Kylie or Jason videos. One day while nosing, I found this song by Brilliant and played it to death, it's a classic SAW production that never really hit the big time! It did in my world!

Do you have any memories of meeting and/or touring (PWL Roadshows) with other PWL acts and who was your favourite?
I suppose the main people I did mini tours with (were) Kylie, Jason Donovan, Rick Astley and Sinitta. We all worked so hard that half the time, we would get the shows done, have dinner together and fall into bed exhausted, ready for the next days work! Sometimes, depending on which town we were in, we'd go to a local club/disco for a good dance and fall into bed at getting up time! Rick Astley was my favourite person, he was so genuine and a real sweetheart.(Great voice too!)

You released 5 great singles in the UK, but the first 4 did not make the charts. However you didn't give up, that's real determination at such a young age. How did you handle it?
I was always a little disappointed when they never made the UK charts, because your home ground is always the place where you would like success! But I think with being so well accepted in Europe and the Far East, I just kept working and hoped that one day the UK would change. I was really happy though with how well the singles did abroad, so that carried me through.

"Don't You Want Me Baby" finally gave you a UK chart placing with hard work starting to pay off. Was this a proud moment for you?
Yes and No really! I think at this point in my life, I was a bit fed up with the British press, as they had given me quite a rough ride, so I was not expecting a hit - and then to have a UK chart placing was a nice surprise. My health at this time was starting to wane a little, which also took the fun out of things.

After "Don’t You Want Me Baby", no more releases followed and you kind of vanished. A lot people missed you, and expected a 2nd album. What happened?
As I mentioned earlier I went to the USA to promote the album and upon my return to the UK I was to make a video for "Don't You Want Me" and finish promoting it. Sadly, that plan didn't come to fruition. I really missed working. It was a frustrating time but I had to learn to cope, by just being positive and getting better.

2005 saw the release of SAW Gold, which included the release of your unreleased original version of "Got To Be Certain". Did PWL let you know this was coming out and how did you feel about it?
To be honest I can't remember them telling me but I do remember feeling really chuffed that people had a chance to hear my version. I did prefer the production on Kylie's though.

Apparently you turned down "Got To Be Certain", is this correct? Did you not feel right about the song at the time, or feel now looking back, that it would have been your breakthrough song in the UK, given it's success with Kylie?
I never turned it down, I think they just tried out songs from the vaults on different artists and went with the one that fitted the artist best. It would never have been my breakthrough song, Kylie had the gold touch at that time and if she'd have sung "I Just Can't Wait", I'm sure that would have been a hit too. Of course at times when I heard "Got To Be Certain" being played on the radio, I would sometimes think, that could have been me! (With a smile!)

After 21 years, your album "Mandy" has been released again in the UK, with the unreleased tracks and rare mixes. What a great CD collection and great achievement. How did you feel when you heard about the release?
With great surprise and I feel more proud of my album now, than I ever did. I was 16, 17 when I recorded most of the songs and I took it all in my stride but looking back, what an achievement/experience.

I remember you coming to Australia, winning many fans when you were here. "Victim Of Pleasure" was charting and getting a lot of radio play. Do you have any memories of coming here?
I loved Australia, I remember describing the people as being warmer than the English and more genuine than the Americans, real cool folk! Not very PC to say that, these days! One of the main memories I have are that of being really tired, because I had just done a mini tour of Japan, but I did enjoy my time there. I got to meet up with Kylie and Jason again and meet a family member of mine that I had never seen before.

You are one of rather few PWL acts who has always spoken to warmly and fondly about SAW and PWL, which is wonderful. What was the best thing about PWL for you?
They really were like a big family, everything was done in house (hence it being called, The Hit Factory) and I always felt protected and cared about, even though they had success on a big scale, they cared about the small stuff!

SAW did receive a lot of stick from the public, music snobs and sometimes even their own acts. How did you feel about that when you would hear it?
It happened to most artists who didn't write their own songs or played instruments, what I mean by that is, their egos kicked in and the critic's words kicked in and they all thought they could do better than SAW. It was a credibility thing. It happens in every walk of life, but the secret with SAW was, if it ain’t broke, don’t try and fix it!

Do you own many SAW records?
Yeah. I have some favourites like Banarama, Mel and Kim and Kylie.

The last CD you bought?
Lady GaGa.

Finally, Mandy there are a lot of fans who miss you. Do you have a message for them?
Thank you so very much for buying the songs that gave me such great opportunities in life, to travel and meet many different people. Every day I learn something new and I embrace it and my many past experiences have made me part of who I am today and that's a very contented, happy person. Thanks again and God bless.


Mandy's legendary debut single!
Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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TLC - Unpretty

"Unpretty" is the second single by R&B girl group TLC from their 1999 album, Fanmail. It became the group's fourth and final U.S. number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and their second Billboard number-one in a row, following "No Scrubs". It was also nominated for Song Of The Year at 1999 Grammy Awards.

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TLC - No Scrubs

"No Scrubs" is the first single by R&B girl group TLC for their album Fanmail. The song eventually became TLC's third number-one Hot 100 single and TLC got their second Grammy nomination for Record of the Year. However, they lost out to Santana's "Smooth". The song won a Grammy Award in 2000 for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal and Best R&B Song.

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Nelly - E.I.

"E.I." is a single by the rapper Nelly from his 2000 album Country Grammar. It peaked at number 11 on the UK Singles Chart and number 15 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

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Dr. Dre - The Next Episode (feat. Snoop Dogg)

"The Next Episode" is the third single by Dr. Dre from his album 2001, which was released in 1999. It features Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg & Kurupt. The song peaked at number 23 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. It was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2001 for Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. The award, however, went to Dr. Dre and Eminem for "Forgot About Dre".

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Justin Timberlake - Summer Love

"Summer Love" is the fourth single from Justin Timberlake's second album FutureSex/LoveSounds. The song was released as a radio single in April 2007. It debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 at #74 and peaked at #6. Timberlake is the first artist ever to have four straight Top 40 radio #1's from the same album.

Technorati Tags:Justin Timberlake, FutureSex/LoveSounds, Pop, Music Videos
Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Ja Rule - Between Me and You (feat. Christina Milian)

"Between Me and You" is the first single from Ja Rule's second album, Rule 3:36, released on June 16, 2000. The single features American R&B and pop singer-songwriter Christina Milian. The song was Ja Rule's first hit, peaking at #11 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.

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Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Jennifer Lopez - Waiting for Tonight

"Waiting for Tonight" is the third single by American singer Jennifer Lopez from her debut album, On the 6 (1999). The song is considered as one of Lopez's signature tunes. It peaked at number eight in the U.S. and it also peaked at number five in the United Kingdom. In 2000, the song earned Lopez a Grammy Award nomination for Best Dance Recording.

Technorati Tags:Jennifer Lopez, On the 6, Dance Pop, Music Videos
Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Jennifer Lopez - Play

"Play" is the second single by American singer Jennifer Lopez from her second album, J.Lo (2001). The single was another hit for Lopez, peaking at number eighteen on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and number two on the U.S. Hot Dance Club Play. R&B-pop singer Christina Milian who co-penned the song for Lopez also provided backup vocals in the chorus for the song.

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Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Lenny Kravitz - Again

"Again" is the only single by rock musician Lenny Kravitz released to promote his Greatest Hits album. The song won Kravitz a Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance in 2001, to add to his other Grammy Awards for "Fly Away" and "American Woman".

Technorati Tags:Lenny Kravitz, Greatest Hits, Ballad, Music Videos
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Lenny Kravitz - American Woman

"American Woman" was originally performed by The Guess Who. Lenny Kravitz covered the song for the soundtrack of Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me. The song was later included in the 1999 re-issue of his 5 album. The music video featured actress Heather Graham (who starred in The Spy Who Shagged Me). Kravitz cover version of "American Woman" won him another Grammy Award in 2000 for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance.

Technorati Tags:Lenny Kravitz, American Woman, Hard Rock, Music Videos
Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Sean Paul - Get Busy

"Get Busy" is a song by Jamaican dancehall reggae singer Sean Paul, from his 2003 album Dutty Rock. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks from May 10, 2003. Interestingly, the song was preceded by "In Da Club" and followed by "21 Questions" (both by 50 Cent). Sean Paul performed the song live on Saturday Night Live in May 2003.

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Sean Paul - Temperature

"Temperature" is a reggae–dancehall song written by Sean Paul for his third album The Trinity (2005). The song reached #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and spent 17 weeks in the top 10. It was Sean Paul's third U.S. #1 along with "Get Busy" and "Baby Boy" with Beyoncé. The song was also featured in the 2007 film, Norbit.

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Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Lenny Kravitz - Fly Away

"Fly Away" is the fourth single by American rock musician Lenny Kravitz from his 1998 album 5. The song is one of Kravitz's most successful songs to date; it topped the UK Singles Chart and reached #12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. It also topped both the Mainstream Rock Tracks and Modern Rock Tracks charts. Kravitz went on to win a Grammy Award in 1998 for Best Male Rock Performance for the song.

Technorati Tags:Lenny Kravitz, 5, Alternative Rock, Music Videos
Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Shayne Ward - No U Hang Up

"No U Hang Up" is a song performed by The X Factor winner, Shayne Ward. The song was released as a double A-side single along with "If That's OK with You". Released on 24 September 2007, the song charted at number two on the UK Singles Chart.

Technorati Tags:Shayne Ward, Breathless, Pop, Music Videos
Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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Bow Wow - Let Me Hold You (feat. Omarion)

"Let Me Hold You" is the first single from Bow Wow's fourth album, Wanted (2005). The single, which also features the singer Omarion, peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was the first Top 10 single both for Bow Wow and for Omarion as a solo artist.

Technorati Tags:Bow Wow, Wanted, Omarion, Pop Rap, Music Videos
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Shop Boyz - Party Like a Rockstar

"Party Like a Rockstar" is the first single by Atlanta-based hip hop group Shop Boyz from their debut album Rockstar Mentality (2007). It reached high success during summer 2007 and was successful in the United States, peaking in the top five on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, Hot Rap Tracks, and Hot 100 charts.

Technorati Tags:Shop Boyz, Rockstar Mentality, Rap Rock, Music Videos
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Pop Panel - Week 11

This is possibly the classiest Pop Panel yet. Not only is the legendary Monica Naranjo observing proceedings from the comfort of her gold toilet like an angelic prostitute but the line up also includes a 16 year old German transsexual, a Spanish bear band and a Latvian pop diva. Annoyingly, none of those acts won but I do approve of the champion and think it's a great "Single Of The Week". As an added bonus, the original panel is back for the first time in weeks:

D'Luv (US) writer of Chart Rigger
Mike author of this classy blog.
Pablo (Spain) writer of Peibols
Paul (UK) writer of Fizzy Pop
Rob (UK) writer of Don't Stop The Pop
The Prophet (AUS) writer of The Prophet

In addition to those hacks, we are joined by a fabulous celebrity guest judge in the form of Alan Connor, who is burning up the UK club chart with his summer smash "I Love The Sunshine". Over the years Alan has carved out his own little niche in the Hi-NRG dance world with hits like "Let Your Love Flow" and "Dance Away" and is currently promoting the impending release of his second album "Something Going On" on the 3rd of August. Alan was kind enough to answer some questions before getting on with the voting.

Alan, "I Love The Sunshine" has been huge in clubs and even gained support from Tiesto. How did the song come about?
"I Love The Sunshine" came about after I recorded "Let Your Love Flow". We had been shopping that track around Europe looking for partners to help promote it internationally and Deep Melange, a German production team, were very interested. They did some mixes for Germany and the track went out as Mike Melange featuring Alan Connor. They sent me this easy listening type demo called "I Love The Sunshine" which I thought had potential, so I went into the studio, changed the chord structure and added some guitars and it made the song. Beltek in Slovenia then did a mix of it which is when Tiesto picked it up and we decided then to go with it as a single. It's very different from what I have done before but it's found its own audience and introduced a lot of new people to my music.

You've really found a niche with your Hi-NRG dance/pop sound. Have you always been a fan of the genre?
I grew up in the 80s when Hi-NRG was the dominant form of chart music, thanks largely to PWL. A lot of my favourite artists were from that era - Bananarama, Dead Or Alive, Kylie, Hazell Dean, Sam Fox and Lonnie Gordon, who I got to work with. So many great records. I think I was lucky when I teamed up with 7th Heaven because they understood that sound, but were able to put a fresh spin on it as well.

Your second album is about to drop. Tell us about it. Will it feature all your club hits?
The new album is out early August and it's called "Something Going On", which is the last track I wrote for the album. I'm a big fan of Xenomania and I'd been listening to Girls Aloud "The Loving Kind" a lot, so it is my stab at writing something along those lines. It is probably my favourite track on the album. The whole record, bar two songs, is mixed or produced by 7th Heaven, and all of the hits are there - "Let Your Love Flow", "Now The Rain Has Gone", "Walking Away" and "Dance Away" as well as the current single, and the next one, "Sun Went Down". There are a couple more cover versions on there, including The Pet Shop Boys "Heart", complete with brass section, and a great version of Human Leagues' "Love Action" which I had a ball recording.

I think the key thing about the album though is that we didn't rush it. We picked the best songs we could for it so there really isn't any filler there. What you have is a collection of songs that all knit together well, but each one has it's own character, so it makes for a very stimulating dance pop record I think. We're releasing it on CD and download. I still like to have a nice shiny CD wherever possible! The digital version though has a couple of bonus 12" mixes, notably "Walking Away" which seems to have been very popular with Hi-NRG fans, because it really does sound like old skool PWL. There's also a commentary which is exclusive to iTunes. The CD is now available to order at play.com, Amazon UK and HMV among others.


Alan's latest top 10 club smash "I Love The Sunshine"
As usual, the songs are listed from least to most popular. Here they are:

Barb@zul - Siente El Orgullo (Video)

Spanish bear band release the theme song for this year's Barcelona Pride.

Alan Connor: Interesting. This is a song you just have to take for what it is. It has a really good Hi-NRG production and nice melody. Very 80s. Also reminds me a bit The Killers “Human”, which is my favourite record of the year so far. I don’t think it would do anything outside of the gay clubs but for its target market it’s a really great track. I am sure the video will be showing in every gay bar in Barcelona this summer until the laser burns through the disc! 4/5
D'Luv: Computer says no. 0/5
Mike: These guys are like Bearforce - only sexy and talented! The song is catchy, uplifting and loads of fun. I love the video and the bad dance routine. Can someone please tell me where I can download this fabulous shit? 4/5
Pablo: Aren't there any other Spanish singles? 0/5
Paul: Now normally I quite like bear bands. There was that Bearforce one who did quite a decent (read: horrific but enjoyable) Christmas number. And oh my, but I really quite like this. I do like a nice uplifting number and the gaytastic video only sweetens the deal. I think when I'm older and hairier I will become a bear and start a band. 3.5/5
Rob: Er....have they ripped off The Killers?!?!?! I think they have! Law suit, law suit! Putting aside the complete and utter clear issue of plagiarism this is a great little pop song for a nice cause. Well done boys but try and be a bit more original next year. 1.5/5
The Prophet: THE HORROR! MAKE IT STOP! JESUS TAKE THE WHEEL AND STEER ME AWAY FROM THE DEVIL'S GRASP! 0/5
Total: 13/35

Cassie Davis – Do It Again (Video)

Australia's answer to Pink/Fergie releases her 3rd single.

Alan Connor: This started out as a rock track and I could feel myself zoning out, but then the groove kicks in. Love the clapping. Very nice touch. I think overall this is a song that would need a few listens though. Generally it doesn’t really separate itself enough from other acts like Pink, which probably means it won’t do as well as it would if someone established recorded it. Great voice though and I think she will be around a while. 3/5
D'Luv: This sounds like Katy Perry singing through Natasha Bedinfield's snatch and out her ass. Now, I know what you're all thinking, but that's actually not a good thing. 1/5
Mike: Seriously, is Cassie being styled by Jeanswest? She looks like a secretary from Penrith. As for the song - I don't know what to say. It took two months for "Differently" to click with me, so I might be feeling "Do It Again" come September. However, right now I'd rather see Julie from Masterchef naked than hear this shit ever again. 1.5/5
Pablo: Now I understand why Kylie makes such low cost videos! Cos it's the way Australian people make videos! Saving money! The song rocks. Sounds like really, REALLY angry cheerleaders. 4/5
Paul: I really like some of her imagery, but this song isn't the strongest single that she has done or that should have been released. It's got more of a No Doubt vibe about it - some notes in the chorus really remind of that group. I do like it well enough though and I love her talky verses. 3/5
Rob: The song is really interesting. On that note she has so much potential. The jeans are a flop. In many ways this is the song that Kelly Clarkson should have picked for her comeback. Instead, Cassie D has delightfully nabbed this stomper for her own. I think the video really lets it down. However putting aside the presentation this little ditty is a strong song that deserves to do really well. And, more development from the record company. 3/5
The Prophet: OMG is she on her THIRD single? Are you serious? I'm sure she's probably talented but her songs are terrible, and I still haven't forgiven her for flirting up a storm with my man Travis McCoy. 0.5/5
Total: 16/35

Kim Petras – Die For You (Video)

16 year old German transsexual releases her debut single.

Alan Connor: Is this the first transsexual pop star since Dana International? Is she REALLY a transsexual? At 16?!! She's very pretty, and making a record at 16 is an achievement, but I don't rate the song at all. She has the look to do well but I don't think this is the song to sell her. 2/5
D'Luv: And here I thought BoA was the only transsexual we were getting to review this week! This ranks up there with some of Heidi Montag's so-shit-it's-class material, and it made me laugh. For that alone: 5/5
Mike: Oh bless her. This is one of the most trashtastic things I've seen in 2009. Kim is ten kinds of fabulous! 4/5
Pablo: Ok, I change my mind. THIS is a really low cost video. I have nothing against trannies, really. Actually Mike is one of them I still talk to him. But this song is really boring. 1/5
Paul: My god, she looks like that skinny druggy one from the OC. Marissa Barton! I can't help but feel that Kim is searching for something and that something would be a tune or at the very least an interesting note. Quite bland and boring. 1/5
Rob: Yikes, this is dreadful. More singing lessons will be a key investment for Kim. 0/5
The Prophet: She's cute for a tranny, I would have never known if you hadn't mentioned it. It's a shame then that she couldn't hold a tune in a bucket but I have a feeling she used her sex change for her own promotional gain in order to start a music career, so I love her for being such trash. 3/5
Total: 16/35

DJ Ella – Shine Like A Superstar (Below)

Latvian pop star unveils her latest dance anthem.

Alan Connor: I like this. She is gorgeous. Great outfit. At first I thought her boobs were hanging out!! I think this is really hooky and it’s the kind of record I would buy. This is from Latvia? Eastern Europe is producing some great new talent. In fact, thank God for Europe because they’re keeping pop music alive. 4/5
D'Luv: Generic. 1/5
Mike: Ella is absolutely stunning and the song is cute but it's all a bit tired and dated. If this were 2002 I'd probably give "Superstar" 5/5 but it's not, so I'm giving it 2 for the music and 1 for her fabulous hair. 3/5
Pablo: (Almost) every song with "superstar" in its title is worth it. At least for me. Easy and danceable. Quite good. 3/5
Paul: Oh "good" - more generic europop. Weren't Cascada doing this 3 years ago before they invented the Lady Gaga sound and then forgot to release it before her? Still I bemoan generic europop and then find myself singing it for days. It sounds like something StarPilots would sing if they were women. Which they are not. 2.5/5
Rob: I love Ella. The review will consequently be ultra biased. I love what they've done to this track. The album version never deserved to be a single. This version does. I've got a feeling this could have the same capacity to be huge like Agnes' "Release Me". Is it too europop though? Could be. It might stay in her familiar Polish territory. Either way, it's a brilliant tune for the summer set. Give a Cicada remix and you've got a UK hit single. 3/5
The Prophet: Eww! She's almost (but not quite) as bad as Colton Ford. 0/5
Total: 16.5/35


Jaydn Maria Ft Flo Rida – Good Girls Like Bad Boys (Video)

Former gospel star turned urban pop diva courtesy of Ne Yo.

Alan Connor: Great song title, and it’s probably another grower. Autotune is back. Yay! Not particularly a track I would be listening to much myself though. 3/5
D'Luv: I kept waiting for the deer to put its head up her woodland ditch in the video. JoJo did this schtick a lot better and more scandalous at a much younger age. 2/5
Mike: Jadyn Maria is like Stacie Orrico on crystal meth, which makes her my kind of diva. I've loved this since it leaked under the title "Villain" in January. Sure, it's a bit formulaic and I could have done without the Flo Rida rap but the chorus is catchy and I love the slutastic video. 4/5
Pablo: Oh, how new! I girl trying to look like Megan Fox with sexy costumes! This song is the least catchy in the panel. 1/5
Paul: Good gravy. This has been done a million times before. The verses that is. The chorus is quite enticing in a dark way. If that magic worked its way throughout the whole song, it would be a lot better. I do like it when religious girls go pop (except Katy Perry of course). 3/5
Rob: Flo Rida kinda gets about doesn't he. Sadly, this is another track that sames like everything else out there at the moment. By itself its not bad but when you consider the fact that songs like this are dime a dozen these days it makes the experience tried, tested and boring. If you wanna do it different look at the singer Kesha (another once-time Flo Rida collaborator) 0/5
The Prophet: I love Jadyn because she was after a music career for years but it never worked out, so she dropped the Christian thing and decided to let the pop industry consume and rape her. She's reminds me of a porn star and I've been bumping this song all year. Shame she's going to hell then isn't it? 4.5/5
Total: 17.5/35

BoA – Eat You Up (Video)

I stuffed this up. "Eat You Up" is actually the Korean superstar's last US single. I'll include her new one next week - much to the delight of Paul and Pablo.

Alan Connor: Pretty good track with a catchy chorus. It’s very current. They’ve aimed squarely at what would get picked up on US radio, right down to the autotune. Good luck to her. 3/5
D'Luv: At first I was confused — the long hair threw me and I thought for a minute that this was a girl. Anyway, he's got a great jam with this one. Yay, BoA! 4/5
Mike: This is a good, old fashioned fuck anthem. I just feel like "Eat You Up" should be accompanied by some kind of intercourse. Anyhoo, I love the track and the choreography in the video is amazing. BoA takes on Britney at her own game and wins. In a landslide. 5/5
Pablo: A Korean Girl trying to be Avril Lavigne sounding like Britney circa "Blackout" is quite similar to Fergie dressed like a torero trying to sing sevillanas. Picture that. This is the same. 1/5
Paul: It could be that I'm writing this at 4.03am because Mike will shout at me if I don't get it done today but this song has no merit as far as I can tell. She's a bit monotonous over the same old pop-club beat. I couldn't even get through the whole song! 1/5
Rob: Those Danes do it again. Yes, this sounds a lot like a 2009 hybrid of Robyn's "Keep This Fire Burning" and Brandy's "What About Us" but that's its endearing quality. 3/5
The Prophet: This song is so last year but if I think back correctly I was obsessed with it when they first released it. Her dancing reminds me of an Asian Janet Jackson, and the sexually suggestive lyrics are the icing on the cake. 4/5
Total: 21/35

Beyoncé – Sweet Dreams (Video)

The most poptastic number on "Sasha Fierce".

Alan Connor: I really like Beyonce. She’s made some great records. This is one of the stronger tracks from her album, and being Beyonce it will do very well. She’s a great singer, and I admire the fact that she doesn’t spoil her records with endless vocal runs just because she can do them. Radio will be all over this track. 3/5
D'Luv: Is it me, or does this sound like La Bouche's "You Won't Forget Me"? While I couldn't give a toss about this overrated ho, the probably-nonexistent tie to that late '90s jam gets it a: 4/5
Mike: Beyoncé creeps into Rihanna's urban dance territory with the skill of a ninja and gives that sad wannabe a worse beat down than Chris Brown in the process. "Sweet Dreams" is amazing - great production, evocative lyrics and a very sexy video. Now can we please have "Radio" or "Smash Into You" as the 27th single from "Sasha Fierce"? 5/5
Pablo: The song is good. I like it, really. But seriously I'm tired of Beyonce + 2 girls dancing. It's enough. 3/5
Paul: God help me but I'm really starting to like Beyonce! Oh my days! I wouldn't say that this is her most poptastic number but I do quite like this and am starting to consider even checking her album out. I thought the chorus was a bit bland at first, but by the end of the song I was singing along "turn the lights off" with the rest of them. 3.5/5
Rob: It's incredibly hard for me to be objective about Beyonce. Only because I find her voice grating. I think she is the worse thing ever to appear on the pop scene since whenever. I am constantly open to Sasha and her other alter egos. I always try to see why she sells so much. Why she wins so many appraisals. But alas I am at a loss. With the random exception of that song she did for Goldmember I can't seem to like this singer and this single doesn't change a thing. Absolutely crap. 0/5
The Prophet: LeToya's sophomore album "Lady Love" is now in stores and her new single "She Ain't Got..." is currently available for purchase on iTunes. 4/5
Total: 22.5/35


SINGLE OF THE WEEK
Bluey Robinson - I Know (below)

Debut single from upcoming British urban pop star Bluey.

Alan Connor: Very eye catching video. It’s probably the best of the videos here. Generally I am not into urban at all but I thought this was very good. He’s a strong, emotive singer with a good range. Chorus is memorable, production is top notch and I particularly like the driving force of the drums. I think he’ll be one to watch for and this I think is my pick of the bunch. A hit. Off to look up who produced this now!!! 5/5
D'Luv: Pretty decent, but the chorus feels lazy. Bluey should have spent more time with a pad and pen and less time on his wig. 3/5
Mike: Credit for this selection has to go to The Prophet. He posted it on his blog a few weeks ago and I've been obsessed with it ever since. It's so warm, uplifting and ruthlessly catchy. One of the better debut singles in recent memory. 5/5
Pablo: What is this? Those clothes? That Little Boots background? That red-haired girl? And this song? 1/5
Paul: Blimey. At first I thought who paid you to put this on the list (OVER PRESTON! Look I can shout too Mr Prophet) but then he wears a bow tie in the video so I thought I'll give it a go... It's quite insiduous in that it does get under your skin the more you hear it. He's got quite a nice voice too so overall j'approve. 3.5/5
Rob: Fuck me! This is brilliantly simple. This has made me change all my other rankings. Its so cute. There are shades of Tyler James in this and I wouldn't be surprised to know that he had a hand in Mr.Robinson's material. A great new act to watch out for. I love it. 5/5
The Prophet: Words cannot describe this, but my score can. 5/5
Total: 27.5/35


Source URL: http://popmusicrecords.blogspot.com/2009/07/
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