Music From The Edge: Denine

Denine started her music career as a backup singer for the popular freestyle group Collage in the early 1990's. Wanting to be the center of attention, Denine convinced Collage member Adam Marano to help her get her own recording deal on their record label Viper Records (Collage's imprint for Metropolitan Records).

Denine's debut full-length CD hit the record stores October 14, 1994. The label had big hopes as Freestyle was making a minor comeback. But, nothing happened. Nothing. For two whole years.

Then after the CD was dead and buried, a local L.A. deejay decided to add "All Cried Out" to his "hit or miss" segment.....the song exploded on the predominately Latin station and began a crossover to the pop stations in L.A.

Soon, program directors across the country began to pick up the song. Denine's carreer was revived enough to re-release "To Be Continued" and to release "All Cried Out" as a CD5 with what the label hoped would be a second hit "I Only Wanted To Love You."

The single stalled on the Billboard Hot 100 chart at #72, but did manage a respectable #33 spot on Billboard's Rhythmic Top 40. These stats convinced Denine's label to go for it one more time (only with a CD5 instead of a full-length CD) titled, "Love of A Lifetime." It failed to chart.

Download: "All Cried Out" (CD5)
Bitrate: 320 kbps

Tracklisting:

1. All Cried Out
2. All Cried Out (Quiet Storm Mix)
3. I Only Wanted To Love You (Radio Mix)
4. I Only Wanted To Love You (Club Mix)
5. I Only Wanted To Love You (Jeep Beats)

Enjoy!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Just a Random Thought

To be honest, I am trying to figure out where I want my blog to head. I am awed by the work that some of my fellow bloggers do - and the amount of time they commit to their craft....kudos!

Me on the other hand, I am "fly by the seat of my pants" with my blog - not purposeful for the most part. Maybe I should change that?

I post what I feel at the time.....and that usually surrounds music. Though I am not, for the most part...purposeful in posting, I certainly choose my musical tracks carefully.

So, that is my thought for the night. I appreciate all that come to my site and visit - I hope you find it comfortable and welcoming!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: MTS

Real McCoy - they're not. Not even close! But MTS wanted to capitalize on the success of the genre of dance music that Real McCoy made popular. A studio group formed by independent record producer Tolga Katas (one of the founding fathers of "freestyle" who has produced tracks for Stevie B and Linear among many other freestyle artists), MTS had little but a CD5 to show for their efforts.

Not much more is known about this group, though they managed to get their track on several "DJ Only" pressings and dance compilations like Pure Energy Volume 4.

Download: "I'll Be Allright" - MTS (CD5)

Bitrate: 320kpbs

Tracklisting:
1. Extended Dance Mix
2. Radio Mix
3. Club Mix
4. Instrumental Mix
5. Sythapella Mix

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: She Moves

The Berman Brothers were trying very hard to recreate the success of their early nineties stars (Real McCoy & Amber) with a similar formula - sugary sweet, pop dance music. They felt that the combined efforts of Carla Duren, Danielle Flora, and Diana Bologna (all former New York Nicks City Dancers) would be the secret ingredient to great chart success.

The Berman Brothers (on their name alone) were able to get the girls signed to Geffen records in 1997, before they even had a name...eventually the trio settled on "She Moves"...and move they did to their first (and only) album, "Breaking All The Rules." (Released November 18, 1997). This was also the name of the lead off single from the album, which peaked at #32 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Even the moderate success of the first single did not move the album. Geffen decided that they would try a second single, and chose a ballad, "It's Your Love". Despite having remixes by the Berman Brothers and Love To Infinity (and a CD5 for the price of a CD Single), the track stalled out at #67 on the Billboard Hot 100.

She Moves failed to chart the album and Geffen, hurting from two unsuccessful attempts to break this artist gave up and walked away.

She Moves broke up soon after they were released from their recording contract, and have all found great success in other arenas.

Interesting sidenote - Tim McGraw and Faith Hill released "It's Your Love" in 1997 to Country Radio, where it not only was a #1 smash on Billboard's Hot Country Tracks & Singles Chart, but it also reached #7 on Billboard's Hot 100, receiving a Grammy nomination and multiple ACM awards.

Download: "It's Your Love" (CD5)
Bitrate: 320kbps

Tracklisting:
1. LP Version
2. Love to Infinity Radio Mix
3. Love to Infinity Classic Paradise Mix
4. Love To Infinity Groove Mix
5. Berman Brother's Dance Mix
6. Every Time You Touch Me (I Get High)

Bonus Download:

"It's Your Love" - Tim McGraw & Faith Hill
Bitrate: 128kbps

Enjoy!
Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Chris Gaines

As Garth Brooks retired (for, I think, the 4th time), he realized he couldn't stand to be away from music. He decided that he wanted to explore his "rock" roots and separate himself from his country identity.

In walks his alter-ego Chris Gaines. Originally conceived as a concept album, "The Life Of Chris Gaines,", [released September 28, 1999] (Peaked at #2 on Billboard's Top 200) was meant to be a starting point for a whole new career path for Brooks. This album was meant to serve as the "GREATEST HITS" of Chris Gaines and set the stage for an upcoming movie that Garth wrote about Chris Gaines' life, called "The Lamb."

The lead off single from the album was "Lost In You." Produced by Don Was and having that "Babyface" flair, the single was the only bright spot in the experiment of Chris Gaines. A massive ad campaign was started to promote the whole idea of Chris Gaines - trailers for the movie, a full page bio in Billboard Magazine, and even a VH1 Behind The Music Documentary (amazing!). But not all things Garth Brooks turn to gold....The movie deal went bust, the album flopped, and Chris Gaines went back to where he came from never to be heard from again. Many people had assumed that Garth Brooks had simply gone crazy, wanting to become another person and trying to start a new music career under an alias with an entirely new look - I personally think it was Genius.

Interestingly enough, for all of the many hits that Garth Brooks has had - this is the ONLY song to make the Top 5 in Billboard's Hot 100 - landing at #5 for 2 weeks. Two other tracks from the album managed some chart activity, "It Don't Matter To the Sun" (peaked at #24 Billboard's Hot Country Singles & Tracks), and "That's The Way I Remember It," (peaked at #26 on Billboard's Adult Contemporary Chart).

Download: "Lost In You" (Single)
Bitrate: 320 kbps

Bonus: Chris Gaines - Right Now


Enjoy!
Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Bananarama

I picked this track because it seems like the end of the road for Hillary Clinton. And "blue" is how I feel!

After a five year hiatus, Bananarama (Keren Woodward and Sarah Elizebeth Dallin) got back in the studio to record what they hoped would be their comeback album. Their 7th studio album titled "Ultra Violet" was your basic Euro-pop fare - nothing extraordinary, and certainly dated by today's standards. Without a record label, they duo shopped around various indie labels to promote and release "Ultra Violet." In Europe (sans United Kingdom where the album was never released) it was ZYX (one of the best dance labels EVER!), and in the U.S., it was a predominantly country label Curb Records (home to Lee Ann Rimes, among others...).

The lead off single was "Every Shade of Blue". Unfortunately, besides a minor blip on the U.S. Dance Singles Chart, this single flopped, as did the album and both disappeared as quickly as they had arrived. (Personally - I love this track, and think it was clearly overlooked!)

Fans of Bananarama believe it was the lack of promotion that killed any chance of this making a splash - but the release of a CD5 with no less than 7 mixes proved that to be false. There was definitely some money spent here - with remixes by Armand Van Helden and Lenny Bertoldo.

Bananarama's latest effort "Drama" was released in 2005. They are currently on the "Here and Now Tour" in Europe. Rumour has it...(I heard a RUMOUR!!!) that they are also working on a new album to be released in fall 2008 or early 2009.

Download: "Every Shade Of Blue" CD5
Bitrate: 320kbps

Track Listing:

1. Radio Version
2. Lenny B's Radio Mix
3. Mix I Vox Hi
4. "12" Fab Four Mix For Cleveland City
5. X-tended Club Mix
6. Armands Ruffneck Mix
7. Alternative mix

and as added pleasure....the video:



and a bonus ....the remix video Vox Hi


ENJOY!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

RapidShare

Can anyone tell me why they choose to use Rapidshare as their uploading source? For the life of me - I can't understand it. personally, I think zshare is the best -

I am sincerely interested in knowing why Rapidshare is so popular....your thoughts are appriciated!

Peace.Live.Love.
JPB

See you Tuesday!

I can't believe that it has been two weeks since I have blogged! I promise to re-appear tuesday, thank you all for your patience!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Meja

Meja (pronounced May-a) had her first chart success as a member of the HiNRG group Legacy of Sound and their dance hit "Happy" in 1993.

Chart Info:
Hot Dance Music/Club Play #20
Hot Dance Music/Maxi-Single Sales #7
Billboard Hot 100 #68
Top 40 Mainstream #29

Music Video: HAPPY -Legacy of Sound

Wanting more, Meja (born Meja Anna Pernilla Beckman in Stockholm Sweden) broke out on her own hoping to capitalize on the success of her Swede-pop counterparts Ace of Base and The Cardigans. Success did happen.................IN JAPAN...........

But in the U.S. her carreer stalled. Meja released her debut CD "Seven Sisters" (1999) to little more than a Billboard mention. Though this album sold over a million copies in Japan, it failed to chart in the U.S., despite having a catchy lead-off single in "All 'Bout The Money."

Chart Info:
Top 40 Mainstream #37
Hot Dance Music/Maxi-Single Sales #36

(interestingly, Meja had more success on the Latin Radio [Latin Pop Airplay #28, Latin Tropical/Salsa Airplay #31], which helped Meja secure a duet with Ricky Martin called "Private Emotion" - produced by Desmond Child).

Download: Meja - All 'Bout The Money (The Remixes)

Bitrate: 320 Kbps

Track Listing:
1) Album Version
2) Hector's Radio Mix
3) Galaxy Of Stars Remix
4) Pierre J's Extended Version
5) DJ Zeb & Sezam's Radio Mix

An artist truly talented and truly overlooked here in the U.S. - Meja continues to make music and delight fans overseas.

Check out her Official Myspace (as her website is currently under construction).
Enjoy.

I actually dedicate this song to my Brother ....who constantly reminds me that it really is "All 'Bout The Money." (Love ya Jimmy!!)
Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Alpha Team

Released during the early techno craze in late 1992 early 1993, "Speed" is the only track from Strictly Hype Recording Artist ALPHA TEAM. Not much to the song, but definitely will remind you of clubbing in the 90's.

Chart history: Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play #43, Billboard Hot Dance Music/Maxi-Single Sales #16, Billboard Hot 100 #74.

The single can be found online selling for as much as $30.00 used.

Here is my tribute to the release of SPEED RACER: THE MOVIE out in theaters today...
Enjoy!

DOWNLOAD: SPEED - Alpha Team CD5
Bitrate: 320Kbps

Track Listing:
1) Speed (Club Mix)
2) Speed (Radio Edit)
3) Speed (Hardcore)


The Video (forewarning - the sound quality is pretty bad).



Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Bette Midler

I would have to turn in my card if I didn't give fair mention to the Divine Miss M. You just gotta love her!

In 1995, after a 5 year studio hiatus, Miss M revisited her AC sound with the wonderfully produced album "Bette of Roses (Peak position Billboard Top 200 Albums #45-but still interesting to note the RIAA certification of 2x Platinum!). Though there were many songs on this album that could have been released, Atlantic wanted something that would cross-over to the clubs. The best track, they felt, was "To Deserve You."

Interesting choice, as the song is really about a woman who believes that her one and only can't possibly love her. She pleas desperately for his love...

I would die for you.
Could you ever love me that much?
How I want, how I want to deserve you.
Yes, you tell me this,
and I want to believe that it's true.
Aah, how I want, how I want to deserve you.

Pretty heavy for a club song, right? Well, add a bit of Bette spice with a hint of Arif Mardin and Steve Skinner and PRESTO....Instant Club Success!!!

Going through my own personal struggle with break-up and relationship disaster, this song certainly allowed many a tear to flow down my cheek. To hear it at the club, helped me down another beer and dance my heart out.

I look back on this, now, older and wiser - I can visualize myself in the role of that woman (or in my case man)- wanting and deserving someones love and feeling as if I could not possibly ever be worthy.....it was telling...it was truthful....haunting if I might say...and extremely sad as well.

Then I was able to understand. I was worthy, I was deserving...no more wanting necessary! 1995 was a period of transition in my life, I began to grow up. I was that person singing "How I want to deserve you...." to being the man I am today singing...."I am what I am...." and being loved for that just the same...! I realized that my "want" to be loved was not the same as actually "being" loved. It can't be forced, it can't be wished...it just has TO BE. I had to love myself enough to know it would happen, but not on my terms....but in time....and it did.

Download: To Deserve You CD5

Bitrate: 320Kbps

Track Listing:
1) Arif's Dance Radio Mix
2) Bonzai Club Mix
3) Bonzai's "Die 4" Mix
4) Arif's Club Mix
5) MK Mix
6) Album Version

Video Fun....
To Deserve You - Album Version


To Deserve You - Club Mix

Peace. Love. Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Kim Richey

By accident - you come across an artist that just "grabs" you. Kim Richey is one of those artists. A native of Ohio (go Buckeyes!), Kim Richey (more famous as a songwriter for artists like Trisha Yearwood and Lorrie Morgan) was destined (for me) to end up in my pile of artists that I would eventually get to but never do. Then I was introduced to the song "Come Around"

Released by Mercury Nashville in 1999, "Come Around" was supposed to be the lead-off single for Richey's 3rd album "Glimmer"....but for some reason (at the last minute) was replaced by "The Way It Never Was." Neither song charted. So much for promotion.

A departure from her previous two albums, "Glimmer" focused more on a popular sound - a way for her to break out as an artist. Well, for some reason it didn't work......while Ms. Richey's first two albums managed to make the Top Country Album Chart (72 and 53), "Glimmer" didn't chart at all, and now the CD is out of print. But thankfully you can still download the full length CD on Itunes.

If you are into singer/songwriters with a Sam Phillips flair- you need to check out this artist.




DOWNLOAD: "Come Around" Advance CD Single

Bitrate: 320Kbps

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: The Human League

80's new wave/synthpop band The Human League was ready to reclaim their position as an international sensation when they released their 7th full-length album "Octopus". It was a re-birth of sorts, as The Human League had been released from their long-term contract with Virgin Records after the album"Romantic?"** failed to garner a single hit ("Heart Like A Wheel" managed to reach #32 on the Billboard Hot 100).

With a new record label, East/West, The Human League was ready explode back on the music charts. The lead off single from "Octopus" was a catchy upbeat song reminiscent of their earlier work in the 1980s (prior to "Human"). "Tell Me When" was a return to their roots, so to speak, with a more mature approach to song lyric and more attention to the musical layering. Originally recorded as a demo in 1991 for Virgin records (who promptly rejected the song before releasing the band of their contract), Philip Oakey was determined to make this the focal point of a new album.

The video, filmed entirely in Prague, also provided proof of a more mature message the rich scenery replaced the substantive 80's flair. "Tell Me When" went on to reach #6 on the UK Singles Chart, #31 on Billboard Hot 100, #15 on Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play and was their biggest chart success in 9 years.

Unfortunately, The Human League was unable to repeat the success with their follow-up singles "One Man In My Heart," and "Filling Up With Heaven" (both failed to chart in the US but "One Man In My Heart" managed a Top 20 showing in the UK). With the music industry beginning to show signs of weakening, East/West Records went through a roster shake-up resulting in The Human League without a recording deal.

Download: "Tell Me When" CD5

Bitrate: 320Kbps




**A side note - the failure of "Romantic?" and the loss of the record contract with Virgin Records almost doomed The Human League, but a stubborn and extremely positive Joanne Catherall managed to keep the group together.. (and they are still together in 2008!)

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Hal

Capitalizing on the electronic/ambient craze of the mid-to-late 90's, and coming off her extreme popularity as Agent Scully on the X-Files, Gillian Anderson lends her sensual voice as the back drop for this rare track by Hal.

Not only did Gillian lend her vocal talents to this track, she personally selected all of the songs featured on the release, "Future: A Journey Through The Electronic Underground." This 2CD set was a collection of music inspired by the BBC television Future Fantastic,(which Gillian hosted).

"Extremis" was the first track released. Interestingly - Hal was virtually unknown in the electronic/ambient movement, whereas William Orbit, Brian Eno, Chemical Brothers, and Air all had some name recognition...Sometimes you must wonder why labels choose the lead-off tracks they do?





DOWNLOAD: Hal featuring Gillian Anderson "Extremis" CD5
Bitrate: 320Kps

So enjoy a piece of 90's obscure electronica!

For an added bonus - here is the video!.....all I can say is it puts new meaning to the term "cyber sex".....!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Do You Remember? 90's Edition

2000 Malibu Road
Aired Wednesdays 9pm on CBS...first airdate 08/23/1992 ...last airdate 09/09/1992

I could have loved this show...! Drew Berrymore, Jennifer Beals, Lisa Hartman, and (ohhhhhhhhhh) Brian Bloom (hotttttt)!!!

Do you think there is a chance we will ever see this on DVD????

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Sunday Edition

Well, as promised I am bringing you more, more, more. As many of you know (but most of you don't....) I love music. It truly is my passion. I was lucky enough to spend many years in the music industry (until it all came crashing down)...and honestly have to say that I had found my "dream" job. Well - reality hits pretty hard - and even though I am no longer in the industry - I continue with my passion. So much so that I began to create mix CD's. For my own purposes - yes - but I did pass them out to family and friends from time to time.... My mix CD's are similar in nature to those wonderful 80's mix tapes we used to all make. No way professional, but full of music we certainly love.

In my mind (and boy does it work overtime sometimes) I created my own music label...(as you will see below), and created graphics for my CD's....ok, maybe I took it a bit far - but I was having fun!

This Mix CD is the 2nd in a series titled "Illicit Material Enclosed"

DOWNLOAD: DJ CatchR Present's: Illicit Material Enclosed II
Bitrate: 320Kbps





I converted the file to RAR so I could upload the entire file at once (I really got sick of doing it one by one...).....if anyone has trouble with unzipping - you can download a free unzip program called Rarzilla

So let the music play. Enjoy.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Meco

1977 was a banner year if you were a young boy like myself. Star Wars! What boy didn't go see this like a bizillion times?? I know I must have begged my mom to let me go see it every weekend - I even tried very hard to be good!

Along with the delicious memory of watching Luke Skywalker rescue Princess Leia, I fondly remember the musical score. Amazingly (or maybe not so), a genius of an artist (or maybe not), came up with an idea to make a disco version of the Star Wars Theme.

I remember this being my favorite song for a very long time - and Hippo Records finally re-released the track in 1999.

Meco's original claim to fame was as co-producer for Gloria Gaynor's "Never Can Say Goodbye" in 1974. His brilliant idea, was founded in a keen obsession with all things "Star Wars." His obsession lead to the re-working of John Williams' masterful score into a campy disco version. "Star Wars Theme/Cantina Band" made it all the way to #1 (Billboard Pop Singles Chart) and #8 (Billboard Black Singles Chart) in June-July 1977.

Meco went on to do disco covers of other memorable film scores like, "The Wizard of Oz," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," and "The Empire Strikes Back."

STAR WARS AND OTHER GALACTIC FUNK

1) Star Wars (a. Title Theme, b. Imperial Attack, c. The Desert & The Robot Auction, d. The Princess Appears, e. The Land of the Sand People, f. Princess Leia's Theme, g. Cantina Band, h. The Last Battle, i. The Throne Room & End Title)

2) Other Galactic Funk

3) Star Wars Theme/Cantina Band (7" Edit)
4) Star Wars Theme/Cantina Band (Promotional Only DJ 12" Mix)

Bitrate: 320 Kbps

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

I'll Be Back! Tomorrow!

Thank you all for your kind words, and your concern! I have been super busy lately with life - something had to give. I really don't want my blog to suffer! I just need to budget my time a bit better so that I don't lose my audience! (PLEASE TELL ME YOU ARE STILL OUT THERE!!!).....

I have been spending my time working out at the gym (noble I know!) and I plan to make my transformation a part of a future blog entry - so watch for it.

For my amends, I will be linking some great songs I found while perusing my collection - some I am sure you will all enjoy and remember! That will be coming in the next few days.

Then it will be off to my mom's for her birthday - not sure how much I will be able to contribute during the weekend. Then back for the workweek ....with a few more interesting tidbits that you will be happy to have tuned in for!

In the meantime, please accept my sincerest apologies - know that I am well...just super duper busy!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

A Sad Day, Indeed

Hot off the presses....and I am depressed!!!!!




Jericho Cancelled Again
It's the end of the road for the resurrected series.
by Eric Goldman
March 21, 2008 - Last year Jericho got a lot of attention when CBS cancelled the series, only for the fans to rally behind it. The ensuing "nuts" campaign was a very impressive one, and resulted in the series achieving the incredibly rare feat of being un-cancelled, as CBS renewed it for a seven episode second season.

Unfortunately for Jericho fans however, the publicity surrounding the show's resurrection didn't result in increased ratings for Season 2, leaving its fate very much in doubt once again. And indeed, CBS has now announced that this coming Tuesday's Season 2 finale will serve as a series finale.


CBS Entertainment President Nina Tassler has released the following statement:

"The March 25th episode of Jericho will be the series finale. Without question, there are passionate viewers watching this program; we simply wish there were more. We thank an engaged and spirited fan base for keeping the show alive this long, and an outstanding team of producers, cast and crew that went through creative hoops to deliver a compelling, high quality second season. We have no regrets bringing the show back for a second try. We listened to our viewers, gave the series an opportunity to grow, and the producers put a great story on the screen. We're proud of everyone's efforts."

It had previously been revealed that two different endings were shot for the Season 2 finale - one to be used if the show was coming back, one if it was not. Clearly the producers will now be using the more definitive ending version.



I guess it would be too much to ask for another network to pick this GREAT show up.....and cable - from everything I am hearing, this show is way too expensive to produce for a cable network to pic it up....(SCIFI???? CAN YOU HEAR ME?????)

Tonight's episode is the final episode. Luckily I have the first season on DVD and the second season Tivo'd.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Bush= Buffoon: A ludicrous or bumbling person; a fool.

I know I talk a lot about the Prez, and what a real boor (a crude uncouth ill-bred person lacking culture or refinement)he is. I am sure one day the history books will reflect what is the sad truth - he IS the WORST President EVER.

That being said, I would just love to leave you with a quote from GEORGIE talking about his "job" as President of the United States.....



"In this job you've got a lot on you plate on a regular basis; you don't have much time to sit around and wander, lonely, in the Oval Office, kind of asking different portraits, 'How do you think my standing will be?'"

-George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., March 16, 2005.

WHAT?????? What????? Are you serious???? I challenge you, my readers, to make sense of this.....what does that statement SAY to you?




308 DAYS LEFT AND COUNTING......!!!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

TV on the Internet .....FOR FREE

I was reading the USA Today a few days ago in my hotel room (yeah, I actually picked up a paper and got my hands filthy with print ink!!!) and I came across an article about a new website that is offering television shows and movies for free....

I thought - I don't want to be caught up in some illegal downloading thing - but decided to check it out - and wouldn't you know it...it's LEGIT!!!

The major television and movie studios have utilized this "network" to promote their shows on DVD (I would assume) and offer a variety of shows....I personally got caught up watching episodes of Charlie's Angels as I was working on my taxes last night (no - they aren't done yet!!!)

But it helped pass the time.

I also thought about my sister Jodi...she doesn't own a TV...(I know...I know...) It's ok though, I have enough TV's in my house for about 5 people.....(I am a junkie). I give her mad props for being able to avoid the boob-tube. But even my dear sister has fits about not having a television - and this site can help - you can browse til your heart's content!
For action .....The A-team, Heroes, Charlie's Angels, Chuck - and the list goes on...

So here is my gift to you! ALL of my wonderful readers!

Visit HULU NOW!!!
Enjoy!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Sorry about the delay.....

So, even though I promised that I would spend more time "blogging" - I find myself having a difficult time getting it done.

I must say that the gym has taken the front seat (as I prepare for my 20th reunion in August)...I am trying my darnedest to be the best I can be and i am having a whole lot of fun doing it. It is amazing to me the transformation in my body shape....I just love that hard work can pay off at the gym.

The interesting thing is that I don't spend HOURS a day there - nope - just 1 to 1 1/2 hours per day for 5 days a week.....focused workouts and cardio where I monitor my heart-rate to be sure I zone correctly.... My optimal fat burning heart rate is 124 and I reach Zone 3 at 133. Knowing these two key elements (and having a rocking Polar Heart Rate Monitor) has made the difference! I am shrinking inches and putting on muscle....WIN WIN....I never thought I would be a gym rat - but I gotta tell you - it is ADDICTING....

Considering that I no longer have any bad habits (I don't drink, I don't smoke, I don't do drugs) I must honestly say that I am healthier today than at any point in my adult life!

My advice - it's never too late...all it takes is about 3 weeks of making it a habit - and seeing some immediate results and then your own will power will take it from there....

So here's to a healthier way of life!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

David Hernandez: REVEALED

VOTE FOR THE NUDE STRIPPER ON AMERICAN IDOL.

Just in case you didn't know - David gave lap dances to a mostly male clientele at a strip joint. These lap dances were done completely naked!

Hmmmm......I can't wait for the clothes to come off!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

R.I.P. Lawrence King

I am too upset to write on this right now.

Lawrence, you are in God's hands now, sweet child. I mourn your loss, even though I didn't know you.

I promise to write on this later. In the meantime, please follow this link

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

I Hate BANKS!

My little sister wrote "Straight to the top" on her blog, where she decided to take a complaint straight to the top......I fully understood her reasoning - and JUST TODAY, found myself doing the same thing....

Here is my letter to my credit card company about their new "benefit" of charging a re-occurring "account maintenance fee" to all account holders. Let's see if I even get a response!

Dear XXXXX,

I am writing to you to file a grievance. I have been a customer in good standing since June 06, 2005. I have received numerous credit line increases “because of [my] good payment history.” I have been extremely responsible in my use of credit, and the use of your credit card.

Until today, February 25, 2008, I have been extremely satisfied with my relationship with XXXXXXXX. I opened up my monthly statement – looking forward to seeing that $0.00 balance for paying this credit card off! Imagine my surprise when I opened my mail today and noticed a $6.50 “account maintenance fee” listed on my statement. I was confused and figured that it was just a mistake. I immediately contacted your customer service department to explain my situation. I entered in my account information and was greeted with the wonderful automated operator giving me my account balance. I was astonished to hear that my balance was now $13.00! I asked myself, how could I get my bill which states a balance of $6.50 (closing date of 2/19/08), and 6 days later, have a balance of $13.00?

The gentleman that assisted me during my initial conversation stated, and I paraphrase, that there was no mistake, and that the $6.50 charge was legitimate, and the reason that I owed $13.00 was because the $6.50 noted on my bill was for “last” month. I then challenged that philosophy and asked him, if I simply paid the $6.50 by the due date of March 15, 2008, would I have a zero balance on my card. He stated that I would still owe another $6.50 account maintenance fee for the “current” bill (to which I learned was the bill that isn’t printed yet). Which basically means I would always be in arrears of $6.50.

I then asked why I was being charged a $6.50 account maintenance fee for an account that had a zero balance. The gentleman simply stated that there was always a fee regardless of the balance. I referred him back to my card member agreement which clearly stated that there was only an account maintenance fee if there was a balance on the account. He stated that I was incorrect. I then asked him if $6.50 was worth losing a good customer over, to which he responded, “...if that is what you choose to do, sir.”

I then asked him if there was someone else that I could speak to regarding this issue. Again, the gentleman stated, “Certainly sir, but they are going to give you the same answer that I am giving you.” I told him that was fine, but I would like to find out for myself.

I was then placed on hold and was transferred to XXXXX(Operator #2XXXX), who stated that he was a “manager.” I thanked him for his time and began to explain my dilemma. He stated that he would look into my concern and placed me on hold. When XXXXX came back, he stated that the card member agreement was changed, and customers notified in October 2007, that the $6.50 account maintenance fee would be charged to all accounts regardless of balance. I, of course, had a balance in October 2007, so I understood the $6.50 maintenance fee was being charged. It wasn’t until I paid off my balance in December 2007, that I noticed this fee re-occurring. I paid the $6.50 fee for the January bill THE DAY I RECEIVED THE BILL in the mail (1/29/2008). I again challenged XXXX on this, and asked him if $6.50 was worth losing a good customer over. He had no answer. I asked him to remove the fee as a courtesy, to which he stated he was unable to do that.

I then told him, I want to close my account effective immediately. XXXX then tried explain to me the “benefits” of having the XXXXXXX card. I stopped him and stated, “How can you even say that? Please explain to me how it BENEFITS me to pay an account maintenance fee of $6.50 monthly when I have a zero balance?” XXXX said, we offer you convenience……… I cut him off and told him, “There is absolutely NO WAY that you are going to convince me that paying XXXXXX an account maintenance fee of $6.50 every month on a credit card that has, for all intents and purposes, a ZERO balance, is a benefit to me! I want you to close my account, and make sure that the account is listed as ‘closed by consumer.’” He assured me that this would happen.

Now, let me remind you of the definition of the word, benefit. According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law; a benefit is “something that provides an advantage or gain.” In other words, the benefit that XXXXX was describing was not MY benefit – but XXXXXXX card's benefit.)

I then told him that I wanted to pay off the $13.00 balance right now, so that I would not receive another bill. I asked him if I paid this right now, would I still incur any fees, or would I have a zero balance. XXXX replied that he, “thinks that it would be zero,” but he could not say for sure.

So, here is my grievance: I do not like to be treated unfairly. I do not like to feel taken advantage of. I do not want to pay for something for which I am receiving NO BENEFIT. XXXXXXXX card, has done all of these things. My resolution is to take my business elsewhere, but I would be remise if I did not voice my displeasure with your business practices. I just feel it is a shame that XXXXXXX card believes that $78.00 ($6.50X12) is more important than a customer, not to mention -retaining a good customer.

I also want to bring to your attention what appears on the back of my February 19, 2008 bill under the heading PAYMENTS. “You may at any time pay more than the minimum payment, or the entire unpaid balance (the New Balance), without incurring FURTHER CHARGES…” There is no explanation of what “further charges” are – but to me that means any form of charge or fee. If this does not, then I feel you need to revise your statements to more accurately reflect your intent in this message.

I look forward to your response.




So there you have it......what do you think? I will let you know if I recieve and response!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Electoral Compass

Well, I'm not really suprised by where I landed - however, I am suprised that I am more closely aligned to Obama than Clinton. That is o.k., though....I am flexible enough to make sure that Ms. Clinton hears my point of view.

If you look at my brother's site you will see we are almost polar opposites. So opposite, if you circled the graph we would almost be touching....intresting, huh?

So thanks again to Charissa....she always has some great ideas! Take the test and see where you land.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

My Store is Open for Business

Well, it started out as a favor to a friend...and will soon blossom (hopefully) into a full-fledged side business......be sure to Come visit my store on CafePress!.

(Thank you Charissa for the idea!)

Currently there are only six items available, 4 of which are exclusive to my friend Chuck. He is a personal trainer (and was a finalist to be on the new Big Brother 9 - but didn't make the final cut - shame too cause he would have made it interesting.)

The other two items are political buttons. Basically, I figured I could sell these forever since it will take that long to fix what the Bush adminstration destroyed.

So take a look....let me know what you think .....ideas are always welcome.....and purchases are nice too!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

I'm Extremely Disappointed

Ok, first - Big Brother Sucks! The hottest guy is nothing but a sweat bucket...the other guys....well, not worth my time. I was so excited about having an extra season of Big Brother - but now not so sure!

On my second disappointment ......Jericho didn't do so well in the ratings last night...though it managed a second place finish in the Key Demo 18-49.....over at Marc Berman's television blog....he wrote:

"Season two of Jericho dipped slightly from Big Brother, with 7.15 million viewers (#3) and a second-place 2.5/ 7 among adults 18-49 at 10 p.m. But given it did not have to face American Idol, the results should have been better. Keep in mind that Jericho debuted with a considerably stronger 11.66 million viewers and a 3.4/10 in the demo on Wednesday, Sept. 20 at 8 p.m. ET. CBS might have been better off airing Jericho earlier."

Honestly - I think Jericho will be ok........but it is hard to get people back to CBS after watching Idol...... Lots of promotion (during key shows CSI, etc...) should do the trick - I only hope that CBS is smart enough to do that!!!!

So that is all I have to say.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Jericho is BACK!

My favorite show is back and it DID NOT disappoint. I can't wait to see how well Jericho did in the ratings!! Smart move not to put in on during IDOL (even my old stand-by Big Brother had to take a backseat to IDOL.)......

Stay tuned - I will give you the (hopefully) good news on the ratings tomorrow!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

I WAS HACKED

I don't know how....I don't want to know. But my blog was hacked today. Such a violation! Thank you John for noticing and letting me know. The hard part was changing all of my online passwords.....that SUX! More to come later. I hope that this did not impact any of my readers!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Corey Hart

"I wear my Sunglasses at night"....singing this at the top of my lungs as I wore my sunglasses at night swinging on the swings of the resort at Lake Milton with my friend Jeff. Life was so innocent then.....

This song meant a lot to me growing up. In tribute to this great song - and fantastic LP, I perused my collection to come upon the first release from Corey Hart titled "First Offense."

Of Canadian grit, Mr. Hart added "Sunglasses at Night" at the last minute, to his debut LP in 1983. He was so popular by the release of his second LP "Boy in the Box" with the #3 Billboard Hit "Never Surrender" he was offered the role of Marty McFly in "Back to the Future." Corey turned down this offer - and the rest is history. Corey's career began its downward trend after "Boy in the Box," - maybe he should have taken on that role, who knows what would have happened?

Corey continues to write music, and though he now is in the background continues to influence the masses, including writing and producing for fellow Canadian Celine Dion.

So...my tribute to 1983....and wearing sunglasses at night...here is his Corey Hart's debut LP, "First Offense."

Sunglasses at Night
Peruvian Lady
Lamp At Midnight
She Got The Radio
It Ain't Enough
Does She Love You
Cheatin' In School
The World Is A Fire
At The Dance
Jenny Fey

"First Offense" peaked at #31 on the Billboard 200. The single "Sunglasses At Night" peaked at #7 on the Billboard Hot 100, the follow-up single "It Ain't Enough" peaked at #17 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Enjoy!

Video for "Sunglasses at Night"


Video for "It Ain't Enough"



Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

The Idiot's Final State of The Union

The end is nearing for the Idiot. No More State of the Union's from this bozo. I am counting down the days.......

Did anyone else feel as if he was regurgitating previous SOU's? There was nothing new here. But then again, did anyone really expect anything new?

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Thank You Dennis!

Dennis-

Thank you for making this an exciting time to be a Democrat. I am so happy that I got to promote you and your campaign. Your candidacy will not go unnoticed. It is with great appreciation that I bid you a sincere so-long to your run for President. I am so glad to say I come from the State of Ohio! Good luck on your re-election bid to Congress - you will succeed!!

At this time, I have decided that my vote will now go to Sen. Clinton on Feb. 5th. As I stated back in 1992 - I wanted Hillary to have her chance, and now she does!!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Sordid Lives: Ain't It a Bitch!

I have to show this again. This movie is a riot! If you haven't rented this - point your mouse towards Netflix and rent it NOW.



Here is Olivia Newton-John portraying Bisty Mae singing "Sordid Lives"


and HEADS UP!! The Logo Channel has OFFICIALLY picked up Sordid Lives as a 12 episode series to begin Fall 2008. Production has begun in Louisiana. There isn't much information on the Logo site just yet, but you can read more about it here

The series will see Olivia Newton-John, Bonnie Bedelia, and Leslie Jordan reprise their roles. Joining them will be Rue McClanahan, Caroline Rhea, and Margaret Cho. IT is gonna be an EXCITING FALL!!!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Ad Washer Fluid!

My car talks to me. It also beeps at me when something isn't right. It also spells it out for me on my dash, and finally puts up a symbol for me to figure out.

Needless to say, I need washer fluid. It's January in Chicago - of course I need washer fluid!! But it's to damned cold to put it in!!! So I am stuck with the car talking, beeping, displaying a message on the dash - and, of course, that awful yellow icon that shows up under my RPMs. What does it remind you of? And who thought of that symbol to represent FILL YOUR FRIGGIN WASHER FLUID?????



Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

War On Greed

We need to END welfare to the rich, and welfare to corporations. Let's put our tax dollars where they belong - in the hands of HONEST working people. I am sure this will get my brother all in a tisy - but there is something seriously wrong with the amount of wealth that is being accumulated at the top, while the middle class continues to shrink and take on the burden that should be shared by the wealthy. I see a class war on the horizon.....

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

And IT was mistaken for a GUN?

I think the video speaks for itself....



At least it could have been a "cute" cop?!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: M

When I was younger - much younger we had a babysitter named Carrie Kovach (last thing I heard, she was in the marines and living in Hawaii - but that was over 15 years ago...).....anyway, there were certain songs that I associate with her, there are several that come to mind - the one I want to highlight today was one that you can't get out of your head once you hear it.

"Pop Muzik" by M was released in 1979, and reached the pinnacle on Billboard's Hot 100 (that would be #1). Often considered one of the first pop/new wave songs - this song was played virtually on the hour on every major radio station in the US. My babysitter used to turn up the radio when this song came on, and we used to dance around the living room singing "Pop.Pop.Pop Muzik" over and over again.

Even though it was originally released in 1979, the song had legs well into 1980. Robin Scott, the mastermind behind "M" has actually had an amazing career in music dating back to the late 1960s and culminating in a retrospective of his work titled "M:The History-Pop Muzik The 25th Anniversary," a 2 CD set that revisits all of his work (even the obscure work never released!). This can be ordered at Union Square Music.

Mr. Scott is still hard at work today, branching out into painting.

His impact on the music world is definite and worthwhile. Please join me in celebrating this enigmatic character with a visit to the past.....


Pop Muzik (89 Reshuffle Mix)

Pop Muzik (Original Nik Launary 12" Version)
Pop Muzik (Steve Osborne Remix)

Pop Muzik (Hip-Hop Mix)

AND THE VIDEO:



Enjoy!!!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Johnny is a Man......

My dear friend John - who doesn't write, doesn't call, and has basically decided that his life in L.A. by far is more interesting without his good friends in the mid-west.....(can you tell I am a bit bitter that he hasn't called....or written...??)

Well, anyway, my dear friend John decided to VLOG. Interestingly enough - I watched it (supposed to be 5 minutes - ended up being 5:28).....and though I can honestly say I didnt' learn anything really "new" about John - I did discover ....or re-discover that he is a geek at heart. (Much love to him though...) And I hope BC is feeling better.

So, becuase I am so lazy right now (not really- just spending a heck of a lot more time at the gym and at work - and don't feel like doing much blogging) - I am reposting his VLOG for you all to see....for those of you that know me - yes..that is "the John."..........

So, enjoy this guest spot - and visit him at his blog to give him some mad props!



Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Pick Your Candidate

Before I even took this survey - I already knew who more closely mirrored my views. This survey confirmed my belief.. It is a fun little test that anyone can take - maybe you will be surprised.

Remember - we can't change things if we don't get involved!!!!!

Here is what the test says:


What do these results mean? The results are very simple. The table below lists the candidates in the order by which they most closely matched the criteria you just entered. Some of these candidates are no longer in the race. To the right of each candidate is a list of the items which you and the candidate explicitly disagreed upon and a list of the items that you expressed support or approval of but for which the candidate's position is unknown/other. Disagreements are not listed for candidates who have negative scores.

Score Candidate Disagreements, Unknowns, Other

85 Kucinich Disagreements: (2) No Child Left Behind, Guantanamo
Unknowns/Other: (0)

68 Gravel Disagreements: (1) Guantanamo
Unknowns/Other: (6) ANWR Drilling, Assault Weapons Ban, Guns - Background Checks, Wiretapping, Net Neutrality, Minimum Wage Increase

51 Obama Disagreements: (5) Patriot Act, Guantanamo, Border Fence, Iran Sanctions, Same-Sex Marriage
Unknowns/Other: (4) No Child Left Behind, Kyoto, Torture, Iran - Military Action

47 Clinton Disagreements: (8) Death Penalty, No Child Left Behind, Patriot Act, Guantanamo, Border Fence, Iran Sanctions, Iran - Military Action, Same-Sex Marriage
Unknowns/Other: (0)

43 Edwards Disagreements: (7) Death Penalty, No Child Left Behind, Patriot Act, Guantanamo, Iran Sanctions, Iran - Military Action, Same-Sex Marriage
Unknowns/Other: (2) Kyoto, Border Fence

42 Dodd Disagreements: (7) Death Penalty, No Child Left Behind, Patriot Act, Guantanamo, Border Fence, Iran Sanctions, Iran - Military Action
Unknowns/Other: (3) Same-Sex Marriage, Same-Sex Civil Union, Universal Healthcare

37 Richardson Disagreements: (7) Death Penalty, Assault Weapons Ban, Patriot Act, Guantanamo, Iran Sanctions, Iran - Military Action, Same-Sex Marriage
Unknowns/Other: (3) No Child Left Behind, ANWR Drilling, Iraq War

37 Biden Disagreements: (7) Death Penalty, No Child Left Behind, Patriot Act, Guantanamo, Border Fence, Iran Sanctions, Same-Sex Marriage
Unknowns/Other: (4) Kyoto, Iran - Military Action, Same-Sex Civil Union, Universal Healthcare

4 Paul Disagreements: (13) Abortion Rights, Embryonic Stem Cells, ANWR Drilling, Kyoto, Assault Weapons Ban, Guns - Background Checks, Guantanamo, Citizenship Path for Illegals, Border Fence, Net Neutrality, Minimum Wage Increase, Same-Sex Marriage, Universal Healthcare
Unknowns/Other: (1) Same-Sex Civil Union

-28 T. Thompson 9/14
-30 Cox 12/9
-33 Giuliani 14/3
-42 McCain 17/1
-48 Brownback 16/3
-52 Huckabee 16/5
-68 Tancredo 20/2
-70 Romney 20/3
-84 Hunter 21/3

No suprise that there isn't a single Republican that wasn't a negative score for me.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Can I VOTE already?

OK, so now I am upset.  It is a day before the IOWA caucuses and Dennis Kucinich has as much conceded - at least temporarily.


He feels that he might not make the cut off for voting.  He has asked, if this happens to support Barak Obama.  I am stunned, actually.  I honestly do not know why he would do that?!  To me -Edwards is a more likely candidate (closer in alignment to K's views.).

 

Originally, I had heard that Kucinich was dropping out of the race all together - this turned out to be a false story........K has only asked our supporters in IOWA to have a second option if needed.

 

Good to know he's still in the race!

 

Well, I do get to vote on Feb 5th - and I will be voting for Kucinich!!!

 

Peace.Love.Live.

JPB

 

Merry Christmas and Peace On Earth

I wanted to take a moment to thank all of those people out there in cyberworld who have made it a point to visit my little place on the web. I am truly honored by your presence and comments. This is the time of reflection and re-examination: As I look back I know that I have been extremely blessed this year, and every year.

I look forward to the new year because we have an opportunity to change the direction that this country is heading. We have 1 year left of the Bush Crime Family. That in and of itself is enough!

Thank you all for visiting - 2008 will prove to be an even bigger year in my blogging - so continue to come back and visit!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Sweeney Todd

AMAZING!!!

Rarely does a movie leave me speachless. Tim Burton managed to make this dark musical a bit darker and a bit more violent than you might originally think.

Like I said before......AMAZING!!!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

My Guilty Pleasure: Daughtry

Ok. I admit that I am madly in lust with Chris Daughtry. He should have won IDOL, but has proven that it doesn't take a win on IDOL to be a win in the real world.

I got an email from the Daughtry site touting their new video. SO I decided, why not show it all for you all to see?

So enjoy....I know I will.....



Did I mention that Chris is AMAZINGLY HOT????

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

REST IN PEACE: Dan Folgelberg

The Leader of the Band has passed away. He died at the age of 56 of Prostate Cancer. A terrible loss to the music world.

Some of my most favorite music was made by Dan Folgelberg. He will truly be missed.

Please take a moment to donate to the Prostate Cancer Foundation . You can donate as little or as much as you would like...my goal is to donate what I would normally buy at I-tunes in a month....

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB