As always, Duran Duran wishes Happy Holidays to Duranies around the world at the close of every year.
This year, the band has done something rather unique. Each member has posted their own sentiment on YouTube. If one recalls, last year Simon Le Bon and Nick Rhodes wished the Duran Duran fan community a Happy Holiday on behalf of the entire band.
Visit YouTube to see holiday greetings from each individual member. And stay in touch with http://www.duranduran.com/.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Let's dance under the stars
Damn and blast as Geoffrey Palmer would say in the British television series, "As Time Goes By."
David Bowie performed "Let's Dance" live when the song came out in the early 1980s. I found an amazing concert performance on YouTube and was most excited to share the video here on Set List. But damn and blast, the share button wouldn't let me publish it.
David Bowie, as has been discovered, puts on a truly glamorous and rockin' show. "Let's Dance" is a great song with seemingly sentimental lyrics masked by a rock groove.
But I wonder if the stars put on an even better show. . .
Congratulations to the top three finalists on Dancing with the Stars.
I personally cheered for Ricki Lake. Alas, she came in third. Still in the top three. An honored position.
I found surprise in how far Rob Kardashian came in the season. Alas, he came in second. Still in the top three. An honored position.
Hoorah for the Mirror Ball Trophy winner, J.R. Martinez!
These three knew how to dance!
Play it David Bowie as all contestants in this season dance under the stars.
David Bowie performed "Let's Dance" live when the song came out in the early 1980s. I found an amazing concert performance on YouTube and was most excited to share the video here on Set List. But damn and blast, the share button wouldn't let me publish it.
David Bowie, as has been discovered, puts on a truly glamorous and rockin' show. "Let's Dance" is a great song with seemingly sentimental lyrics masked by a rock groove.
But I wonder if the stars put on an even better show. . .
Congratulations to the top three finalists on Dancing with the Stars.
I personally cheered for Ricki Lake. Alas, she came in third. Still in the top three. An honored position.
I found surprise in how far Rob Kardashian came in the season. Alas, he came in second. Still in the top three. An honored position.
Hoorah for the Mirror Ball Trophy winner, J.R. Martinez!
These three knew how to dance!
Play it David Bowie as all contestants in this season dance under the stars.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Don't stop. . .
I generally do not blog on weekends, but today is an extraordinary day and I am most giddy at the moment.
Happy weekend!
And always remember to play it! :)
Happy weekend!
And always remember to play it! :)
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Girl Panic
If I read one more rave review of Duran Duran's "Girl Panic" music video, I will seriously panic (and I already am on anti-anxiety/panic medication).
I cannot apologize for my following words.
Duran Duran is defined by their extraordinary musical talent and their "extraordinary taste in women." They get a thrill over society-defined beautiful women, a.k.a supermodels. Simon Le Bon is married to a model. Nick Rhodes was married to a model and has since dated society-defined beautiful women. John Taylor is married to the founder of Juicy Couture - the brand speaks for itself. Roger Taylor is married to a society-defined beautiful woman. And for the record all children born into these marriages will grow into society-defined beauty.
I do not consider myself society-defined beautiful. I never have and never will, mostly do to lack of self-esteem and confidence. I am, quite simply, regular. Regular in its meaning is a concept the members of Duran Duran will never know and fully appreciate.
The band's depiction of "regular women" is sorely flawed in the video of "Girl Panic." Therefore, I personally rate this video severely low.
I will always love Duran Duran's music and talent.
I suppose the elite in any form sometimes need to fall below the clouds and live in reality.
I cannot apologize for my following words.
Duran Duran is defined by their extraordinary musical talent and their "extraordinary taste in women." They get a thrill over society-defined beautiful women, a.k.a supermodels. Simon Le Bon is married to a model. Nick Rhodes was married to a model and has since dated society-defined beautiful women. John Taylor is married to the founder of Juicy Couture - the brand speaks for itself. Roger Taylor is married to a society-defined beautiful woman. And for the record all children born into these marriages will grow into society-defined beauty.
I do not consider myself society-defined beautiful. I never have and never will, mostly do to lack of self-esteem and confidence. I am, quite simply, regular. Regular in its meaning is a concept the members of Duran Duran will never know and fully appreciate.
The band's depiction of "regular women" is sorely flawed in the video of "Girl Panic." Therefore, I personally rate this video severely low.
I will always love Duran Duran's music and talent.
I suppose the elite in any form sometimes need to fall below the clouds and live in reality.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Gotta love Roger Taylor
Simply comical and somehow only Roger Taylor could pull off a 13-second advertisement of Duran Duran at the Chicago Theater on October 21, 2011.
Gotta love Roger Taylor :)
Gotta love Roger Taylor :)
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Is there something I should know
I suppose one could say this post is on a need-to-know basis.
I have been blogging fairly consistently since April 2010. I manage three blogs and at times one receives more attention than another. However, all are by now established.
So here's a question - how do bloggers earn significantly? My chosen profession is writing and blogging is a huge portion of that profession. I am doing everything I can to attract more traffic, more ad clicks, even hopeful donations.
My mom lives paycheck to paycheck. I have no means of income with zero prospects online and offline.
In essence, I am financially desperate.
I am currently listening to Duran Duran's "All You Need Is Now." All I need now is an income. . .such an illusive concept.
I have been blogging fairly consistently since April 2010. I manage three blogs and at times one receives more attention than another. However, all are by now established.
So here's a question - how do bloggers earn significantly? My chosen profession is writing and blogging is a huge portion of that profession. I am doing everything I can to attract more traffic, more ad clicks, even hopeful donations.
My mom lives paycheck to paycheck. I have no means of income with zero prospects online and offline.
In essence, I am financially desperate.
I am currently listening to Duran Duran's "All You Need Is Now." All I need now is an income. . .such an illusive concept.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Sweet home Chicago
I may have been a fool to miss Duran Duran in Chicago last week, but the sax player for the band wrote a sweet and sentimental post on DD's website. I could paraphrase his thoughts on playing in Chicago, but his words mean so much more. Check out Simon W's postcard from Chicago.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Only fools come undone
And I am the fool.
I adore Duran Duran, no longer a secret. I follow every album produced and sent out for sale. My iTunes set is a literal laundry list. I follow every concert date they play in the United States, wishing to be the ultimate "Duranie" and attend every concert date they play in the United States. At times, I would love to follow the band's performances in the UK.
My first concert was in 2008 as a college graduation gift. I had a blast while Roger Taylor's drums blasted my eardrums. I did not want the concert or night to end. I certainly did not get any sleep when I finally came home that night.
I admittedly have been tracking the band's performances in the United States tour for All You Need Is Now. I read every article following every performance. The band inches its way across the country, heading straight for Chicago.
So of course the one concert date I fail to follow is Duran Duran's performance tonight at the Chicago Theater. I did not discover this date until earlier this week, by now I am sure no tickets available.
Who is the fool now? I could come undone.
I adore Duran Duran, no longer a secret. I follow every album produced and sent out for sale. My iTunes set is a literal laundry list. I follow every concert date they play in the United States, wishing to be the ultimate "Duranie" and attend every concert date they play in the United States. At times, I would love to follow the band's performances in the UK.
My first concert was in 2008 as a college graduation gift. I had a blast while Roger Taylor's drums blasted my eardrums. I did not want the concert or night to end. I certainly did not get any sleep when I finally came home that night.
I admittedly have been tracking the band's performances in the United States tour for All You Need Is Now. I read every article following every performance. The band inches its way across the country, heading straight for Chicago.
So of course the one concert date I fail to follow is Duran Duran's performance tonight at the Chicago Theater. I did not discover this date until earlier this week, by now I am sure no tickets available.
Who is the fool now? I could come undone.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Rest in eternal peace, Steve Jobs
Every generation in every corner of the world has left a global impact -
My grandmother's generation produced the automobile.
My mother's generation produced NASA.
My generation produced the computer.
My cousin's generation produced a technological future that can only be explained as inexplicable.
Every generation is extraordinary in what they offer to the world and how that offer lends to those following.
I am currently listening to a favorite smooth jazz artist, Greg Adams. My only cd recorded by him is scratched and cannot be listened to anymore. So what do I do? I turn to iTunes. Every song I have ever loved or discovered over time is on my iPod. Dozens more can be found on my laptop iTunes.
My father only knows Apple. He has an Apple desktop and swears by his MacBook. He lives on his iPhone.
I gave my mom an iPhone for her birthday a couple of years ago (actually, I paid in part because iPhones are really expensive!). I surprised my mom with an iPod for Christmas some years ago. Neither Apple product was expected. She was thrilled.
Apple has thrilled millions around the world. Millions around the world take for granted their products. Yet what we, as an Apple global community, must never take for granted is who stood behind its conception - Steve Jobs.
Apple products as they are ever evolving were created in some way and Steve Jobs blasted a grand slam in those creations.
I hope that generations after me will be thrilled with Apple products of today and tomorrow.
Rest in peace, Steve Jobs.
My grandmother's generation produced the automobile.
My mother's generation produced NASA.
My generation produced the computer.
My cousin's generation produced a technological future that can only be explained as inexplicable.
Every generation is extraordinary in what they offer to the world and how that offer lends to those following.
I am currently listening to a favorite smooth jazz artist, Greg Adams. My only cd recorded by him is scratched and cannot be listened to anymore. So what do I do? I turn to iTunes. Every song I have ever loved or discovered over time is on my iPod. Dozens more can be found on my laptop iTunes.
My father only knows Apple. He has an Apple desktop and swears by his MacBook. He lives on his iPhone.
I gave my mom an iPhone for her birthday a couple of years ago (actually, I paid in part because iPhones are really expensive!). I surprised my mom with an iPod for Christmas some years ago. Neither Apple product was expected. She was thrilled.
Apple has thrilled millions around the world. Millions around the world take for granted their products. Yet what we, as an Apple global community, must never take for granted is who stood behind its conception - Steve Jobs.
Apple products as they are ever evolving were created in some way and Steve Jobs blasted a grand slam in those creations.
I hope that generations after me will be thrilled with Apple products of today and tomorrow.
Rest in peace, Steve Jobs.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
John Taylor goes to publishing in 2012
I follow several blogs on Set List, all music related of course. Set List is greatly inspired by Duran Duran, so naturally I follow Duran Duran's blog through their website. In the Reader section of my dashboard, I get every update from the blogs I follow. One update that recently came in from Duran Duran caught my attention, not for the better.
I need only read the title of the post entry to be livid. I did not read the post itself. John Taylor's autobiography is set to be published in 2012.
I am so angry at this moment that I am surprised I can write coherently.
Why is it that every celebrity on this planet who can string three sentences together can automatically go to publishing? I work my rear off to get an agent, any agent, to at least see a sample of my work. Months if not longer go into every project I write, not including self-editing. Weeks if not months go by while I wait for a response, and the response is always a no! Along comes a global celebrity, such as John Taylor, and the publishing world becomes a frenzy just to say they have John Taylor as a literary client. What is wrong with the publishing world?! Give real authors, desperate authors, authors who gamble away their literary lives just to be noticed, authors who pour everything out of them into what could be the next great American novel, a chance.
For the record, John Taylor's audience will be sorely limited to Duran Duran fans. If his autobiography lands a spot on the New York Times Bestseller list, I will walk away from publishing hopes altogether.
Publishing is more than a name. Publishing is driven by the written word.
I need only read the title of the post entry to be livid. I did not read the post itself. John Taylor's autobiography is set to be published in 2012.
I am so angry at this moment that I am surprised I can write coherently.
Why is it that every celebrity on this planet who can string three sentences together can automatically go to publishing? I work my rear off to get an agent, any agent, to at least see a sample of my work. Months if not longer go into every project I write, not including self-editing. Weeks if not months go by while I wait for a response, and the response is always a no! Along comes a global celebrity, such as John Taylor, and the publishing world becomes a frenzy just to say they have John Taylor as a literary client. What is wrong with the publishing world?! Give real authors, desperate authors, authors who gamble away their literary lives just to be noticed, authors who pour everything out of them into what could be the next great American novel, a chance.
For the record, John Taylor's audience will be sorely limited to Duran Duran fans. If his autobiography lands a spot on the New York Times Bestseller list, I will walk away from publishing hopes altogether.
Publishing is more than a name. Publishing is driven by the written word.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Happy thought from Duran Duran
I am more than sure that somewhere in the recesses of Set List, "Reach Up For the Sunrise" as performed live (from London) has shown itself as a post. Of course, I do not remember.
Today is a rather blue day covered in gray clouds. So I suppose my claim for potentially airing "Reach Up For the Sunrise" twice is that on this blue and gray day, Duran Duran is a happy thought with a perfect pick-me-up performance.
Today is a rather blue day covered in gray clouds. So I suppose my claim for potentially airing "Reach Up For the Sunrise" twice is that on this blue and gray day, Duran Duran is a happy thought with a perfect pick-me-up performance.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Anything but singing for Simon Le Bon?
I am going through an extreme rough patch in my life. . .so much so to say that "Lonely in Your Nightmare" is a present anthem.
I cannot imagine Simon Le Bon's emotions after having to cancel the entire Summer 2011 All You Need Is Now tour for only his ailing vocal chords.
In a recently posted blog entry on Duran Duran's website, Simon was quoted as being devastated by the cancellations and realizing that he is not good at anything else but singing. His believed thoughts break my heart.
Nick Rhodes has unspeakable talent on the keyboard/synth. His ability to manipulate sound into timeless classics is simply incredible.
John Taylor on bass. What can I say. His underlying funk and drive define Duran Duran's uniqueness.
Roger Taylor makes playing the drums look so easy. Roger is so shy, kind, and innocent. Yet when he sits down to play the drums - on stage - the heart pounding power and noise volume makes a listener think twice. . .and want more. The drums are my second most favorite instrument to want to play.
Singing is my first most favorite attribute to learn. Simon steals every show with his voice and physical presence. His talent did not come overnight. I will forever be jealous of his ability to hit a singular high note in "Union of the Snake." Simon Le Bon inspires me to find my talent.
Simon Le Bon inspires me in general. His humor quite possibly surpasses Nick's. His intelligence and wisdom reflect his life experiences. If not for his infamously admitted poor spelling, I would be most interested in what he could sit down to write. His interest in the written word from across the globe is intriguing. He is dignified beyond his years. Simon Le Bon is quite simply capable of anything. All he knows is singing. Singing and performing have dominated his grown years. He has never had the chance to explore other interests and talents.
Simon, you can do anything. Your esteemed self-worth knows you can do anything. You are a highly positive person. Never let devastation bring you down. When secondary education and law did not work out as extended interests, I found writing. Because of you, I created Set List. My love for blogging led to my personal website, Puppy Love. Puppy Love led to a children's chapter book currently under agent review. Puppy Love also led to constantly written children's short stories. In other words, I love to write. My passion began with Set List. . .because of you.
If you believe in Simon Le Bon's capabilities beyond singing or wish to show support in general, follow him on Twitter @SimonJCLeBON.
I cannot imagine Simon Le Bon's emotions after having to cancel the entire Summer 2011 All You Need Is Now tour for only his ailing vocal chords.
In a recently posted blog entry on Duran Duran's website, Simon was quoted as being devastated by the cancellations and realizing that he is not good at anything else but singing. His believed thoughts break my heart.
Nick Rhodes has unspeakable talent on the keyboard/synth. His ability to manipulate sound into timeless classics is simply incredible.
John Taylor on bass. What can I say. His underlying funk and drive define Duran Duran's uniqueness.
Roger Taylor makes playing the drums look so easy. Roger is so shy, kind, and innocent. Yet when he sits down to play the drums - on stage - the heart pounding power and noise volume makes a listener think twice. . .and want more. The drums are my second most favorite instrument to want to play.
Singing is my first most favorite attribute to learn. Simon steals every show with his voice and physical presence. His talent did not come overnight. I will forever be jealous of his ability to hit a singular high note in "Union of the Snake." Simon Le Bon inspires me to find my talent.
Simon Le Bon inspires me in general. His humor quite possibly surpasses Nick's. His intelligence and wisdom reflect his life experiences. If not for his infamously admitted poor spelling, I would be most interested in what he could sit down to write. His interest in the written word from across the globe is intriguing. He is dignified beyond his years. Simon Le Bon is quite simply capable of anything. All he knows is singing. Singing and performing have dominated his grown years. He has never had the chance to explore other interests and talents.
Simon, you can do anything. Your esteemed self-worth knows you can do anything. You are a highly positive person. Never let devastation bring you down. When secondary education and law did not work out as extended interests, I found writing. Because of you, I created Set List. My love for blogging led to my personal website, Puppy Love. Puppy Love led to a children's chapter book currently under agent review. Puppy Love also led to constantly written children's short stories. In other words, I love to write. My passion began with Set List. . .because of you.
If you believe in Simon Le Bon's capabilities beyond singing or wish to show support in general, follow him on Twitter @SimonJCLeBON.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
The one and only. . .Simon LeBon
I recently came upon photos of Simon LeBon on the red carpet at this evening's GQ Awards in London.
Simon is quite handsome and dignified in a tuxedo. So much so that at events such as this, I would never guess him to be the lead singer of the timeless rock band, Duran Duran.
Follow @DuranDuran on Twitter for photos.
Simon is quite handsome and dignified in a tuxedo. So much so that at events such as this, I would never guess him to be the lead singer of the timeless rock band, Duran Duran.
Follow @DuranDuran on Twitter for photos.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Would someone please explain. . .
. . .Who Lady Gaga is and why she is so popular?
I was not impressed by her performance at the MTV Video Music Awards.
Nor am I inclined to listen to her music. And buy it.
I was not impressed by her performance at the MTV Video Music Awards.
Nor am I inclined to listen to her music. And buy it.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Power to commercial jingles!
I am officially addicted to commercial jingles.
My latest favorite is "Power" by the Temptations. I admit, however, that I had never heard of this funky song until I heard it as a jingle in advertising for Blackberry's Playbook.
I am in love with the vocal bass. The beat is just rockin'. The lyrics are fun. The message is clear.
I am aware of the Temptations. I have never fully been aware of their music. I am wide awake now. I plan for "Power" to be my third commercial jingle-inspired download on iTunes.
Play it commercial jingles! Play it Temptations!
My latest favorite is "Power" by the Temptations. I admit, however, that I had never heard of this funky song until I heard it as a jingle in advertising for Blackberry's Playbook.
I am in love with the vocal bass. The beat is just rockin'. The lyrics are fun. The message is clear.
I am aware of the Temptations. I have never fully been aware of their music. I am wide awake now. I plan for "Power" to be my third commercial jingle-inspired download on iTunes.
Play it commercial jingles! Play it Temptations!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Let it out
Over the course of the past month, I have experienced a roller coaster of shattered and elated emotions directly resulting from stress I no longer can control or resolve.
"Shout" is the perfect musical therapy for such a mental state as mine. Every once in awhile in life, a person just has to let it all out. Scream, shout. . .get the steam out of one's head and mind.
So. Enjoy the lyrics and sound of "Shout" by Tears for Fears. Enjoy this song as therapy or enjoy this song for musical interest.
Always remember to play it when music is the only way.
"Shout" is the perfect musical therapy for such a mental state as mine. Every once in awhile in life, a person just has to let it all out. Scream, shout. . .get the steam out of one's head and mind.
So. Enjoy the lyrics and sound of "Shout" by Tears for Fears. Enjoy this song as therapy or enjoy this song for musical interest.
Always remember to play it when music is the only way.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
DD Universe in Second Life
I have never visited Second Life. I now know of DD Universe on Second Life.
I recently read Katy Krassner's blog on DD.com and she was more than thrilled in her description of the unique world created for the online world. Her words and opinions were rich and inviting for those reading to visit too.
I have always thought kindly of Katy Krassner and I will always be in love with Duran Duran, but their universe on this earth is enough for me. A DD Universe in cyberspace is overwhelming.
I realize of course that I should create a free account with Second Life. But why? What does Second Life and DD Universe have to offer? Is the virtual world better than the one I am living in now? Is virtual reality more sound than present reality?
I am not convinced. If one Duran Duran fan can prove me otherwise, I will join DD Universe on Second Life.
I recently read Katy Krassner's blog on DD.com and she was more than thrilled in her description of the unique world created for the online world. Her words and opinions were rich and inviting for those reading to visit too.
I have always thought kindly of Katy Krassner and I will always be in love with Duran Duran, but their universe on this earth is enough for me. A DD Universe in cyberspace is overwhelming.
I realize of course that I should create a free account with Second Life. But why? What does Second Life and DD Universe have to offer? Is the virtual world better than the one I am living in now? Is virtual reality more sound than present reality?
I am not convinced. If one Duran Duran fan can prove me otherwise, I will join DD Universe on Second Life.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Happy Belated Birthday, Nick Rhodes
On June 8, 1962, the world welcomed Nicholas James Bates.
No one could guess at that time that he would rise amongst five others into the stratosphere, far beyond his Planet Earth.
In 49 years, Nick Rhodes has reached up for his sunrise. Yet somehow, he and all others of Duran Duran still leave us wondering What Happens Tomorrow.
With age well concealed, I say Happy Belated Birthday, Nicholas James Bates.
No one could guess at that time that he would rise amongst five others into the stratosphere, far beyond his Planet Earth.
In 49 years, Nick Rhodes has reached up for his sunrise. Yet somehow, he and all others of Duran Duran still leave us wondering What Happens Tomorrow.
With age well concealed, I say Happy Belated Birthday, Nicholas James Bates.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Get well soon, Simon Le Bon
My thoughts are with Duran Duran singer, Simon Le Bon, in his recovery from severe laryngitis.
I cannot imagine the loss of voice when one needs it the most.
Get well soon, Simon.
I cannot imagine the loss of voice when one needs it the most.
Get well soon, Simon.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Remembering the '80s
The 1980s decade is very special to me. My favorite musicians and their albums peaked in the '80s. My favorite television programs broadcast in the '80s. My favorite film actors starred in even more favorite movies. And...I was born in 1983.
I celebrated my 28th birthday last Friday. While I cannot believe where time in my life is going, I cannot even more believe my '80s favorites have reached anniversaries.
Eddie Murphy and his classic "Beverly Hills Cop" defined the 1980s and were in fact the most popular in entertainment at the time of my birth.
Last year, I honored Michael Jackson's Thriller on my birthday edition. This year, I honor "Axel Foley" on my belated birthday edition. Enjoy the YouTube video below.
I celebrated my 28th birthday last Friday. While I cannot believe where time in my life is going, I cannot even more believe my '80s favorites have reached anniversaries.
Eddie Murphy and his classic "Beverly Hills Cop" defined the 1980s and were in fact the most popular in entertainment at the time of my birth.
Last year, I honored Michael Jackson's Thriller on my birthday edition. This year, I honor "Axel Foley" on my belated birthday edition. Enjoy the YouTube video below.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
One year anniversary on Set List
Set List has reached an incredible milestone in this month of April 2011 - one year since the blog's creation.
I created Set List for a variety of personal reasons. I am passionate about music of many genres and wanted to share my love in a concept new to me - blogging. I wanted to design a music-themed website with a central focus on writing. I did want to earn money while writing about my passion. I wanted to intrigue other music lovers with my thoughts and opinions. I wanted to connect.
Set List has come a long way since these initial reasons. I have brought in well over 1800 page impressions that grow every day.
I created Set List with one inspiration in mind - Duran Duran. Duran Duran is a powerful driving force in all creativity I produce. Without my long-time love and peaked interest in DD, I would not have thought at all about creating a blog about music. I would not be venturing into the world of card design where one of many themes is music - a theme I hope to pitch to the band's merchandise department. I would not have created a fan page in honor of Duran Duran - http://simplyduran.webs.com/. This site is a personal achievement.
Duran Duran remains forever a hot topic on Set List. Every time I mention the band's name in a post, my page impressions skyrocket. So why would I want to quit now?
Although I do not post as frequently on Set List as I once did, my exceptional adoration for this blog will never cease.
And so to quote an inspirational song title, Reach Up For the Sunrise because you never know What Happens Tomorrow. . .Play it, Set List!
I created Set List for a variety of personal reasons. I am passionate about music of many genres and wanted to share my love in a concept new to me - blogging. I wanted to design a music-themed website with a central focus on writing. I did want to earn money while writing about my passion. I wanted to intrigue other music lovers with my thoughts and opinions. I wanted to connect.
Set List has come a long way since these initial reasons. I have brought in well over 1800 page impressions that grow every day.
I created Set List with one inspiration in mind - Duran Duran. Duran Duran is a powerful driving force in all creativity I produce. Without my long-time love and peaked interest in DD, I would not have thought at all about creating a blog about music. I would not be venturing into the world of card design where one of many themes is music - a theme I hope to pitch to the band's merchandise department. I would not have created a fan page in honor of Duran Duran - http://simplyduran.webs.com/. This site is a personal achievement.
Duran Duran remains forever a hot topic on Set List. Every time I mention the band's name in a post, my page impressions skyrocket. So why would I want to quit now?
Although I do not post as frequently on Set List as I once did, my exceptional adoration for this blog will never cease.
And so to quote an inspirational song title, Reach Up For the Sunrise because you never know What Happens Tomorrow. . .Play it, Set List!
Monday, April 11, 2011
A note from Set List
My last entry on Set List was posted on March 22. I feel that I have neglected my blog and my viewers. My personal schedule is on overdrive, and so I would like to leave a note.
I am currently in the throws of revising for the second time my manuscript, Serene's Fantastic Escape. This is a time-consuming project as I am editing 144 pages with the intent of adding far more. Serene's Fantastic Escape is presently at novella status and I am aiming for complete novel status...38,225 words to 80,000 words is not a quick process.
I am currently in the throws of searching for a publisher for my short story collection, Love Always, Chessie. If I can get this collection published, my credentials will appeal greater when I pitch Serene's Fantastic Escape to agents. To be a writer isn't easy. To be a published author is a massive feat far more difficult to achieve than penning the words themselves. I am willing to face this challenge, for my love of writing.
My card design venture is all-consuming. My first music design is complete. I am working on three more music designs to complete the music theme. The remaining three have templates, and now I need to create card stock. . .A secret no longer, I hope to pitch my music theme to Duran Duran's merchandise department - web store. An honor of only the highest esteem if the Duran Duran organization accepts my cards for sale online.
And I am moving.
So this is my note, to keep viewers up to date. I am not forgetful of Set List. I just have so much to do.
In keeping with the music theme of Set List, I do live on my iTunes collection while working. I seem to gravitate towards jazz (smooth, Chris Botti, Miles Davis). My concentration tolerates rock surprisingly when making cards (as all my cards are handmade and complex in design). When I am editing, rock sometimes breaks my concentration. I find myself moving to the beat. Although I get work done, '80s rock especially (The Police, Duran Duran, etc) tends to distract my mind.
What do you listen to while working? What keeps you going? What breaks your concentration? Feel free to leave a comment!
I am currently in the throws of revising for the second time my manuscript, Serene's Fantastic Escape. This is a time-consuming project as I am editing 144 pages with the intent of adding far more. Serene's Fantastic Escape is presently at novella status and I am aiming for complete novel status...38,225 words to 80,000 words is not a quick process.
I am currently in the throws of searching for a publisher for my short story collection, Love Always, Chessie. If I can get this collection published, my credentials will appeal greater when I pitch Serene's Fantastic Escape to agents. To be a writer isn't easy. To be a published author is a massive feat far more difficult to achieve than penning the words themselves. I am willing to face this challenge, for my love of writing.
My card design venture is all-consuming. My first music design is complete. I am working on three more music designs to complete the music theme. The remaining three have templates, and now I need to create card stock. . .A secret no longer, I hope to pitch my music theme to Duran Duran's merchandise department - web store. An honor of only the highest esteem if the Duran Duran organization accepts my cards for sale online.
And I am moving.
So this is my note, to keep viewers up to date. I am not forgetful of Set List. I just have so much to do.
In keeping with the music theme of Set List, I do live on my iTunes collection while working. I seem to gravitate towards jazz (smooth, Chris Botti, Miles Davis). My concentration tolerates rock surprisingly when making cards (as all my cards are handmade and complex in design). When I am editing, rock sometimes breaks my concentration. I find myself moving to the beat. Although I get work done, '80s rock especially (The Police, Duran Duran, etc) tends to distract my mind.
What do you listen to while working? What keeps you going? What breaks your concentration? Feel free to leave a comment!
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Duran Duran invades Planet Earth
Duran Duran's 13th album, All You Need Is Now, has officially gone global.
AYNIN is sale-ready in Europe, South America, North America, and, oh yeah, the Internet. If I am accidentally leaving out any other continent, never fear. Duran Duran's music can be found on iTunes.
Duran Duran has truly invaded Planet Earth.
AYNIN is sale-ready in Europe, South America, North America, and, oh yeah, the Internet. If I am accidentally leaving out any other continent, never fear. Duran Duran's music can be found on iTunes.
Duran Duran has truly invaded Planet Earth.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Ordinary World
As I listen to "Ordinary World" by Duran Duran and reflect on the three entries I recently posted to my blog, Puppy Love, where the theme is Japanese devastation from a dog's perspective, I cannot help but wonder if our planet Earth will ever again see an ordinary world.
Devastation around the world in the form of natural disasters. History in a heartbeat in the form of uprisings in the Middle East. Global economies stricken to invisibility with no return.
The uprisings in the Middle East came about with honorable intentions. Men and women alike in these countries deserve what they demand - just democracy. I applaud what they desire.
I cannot speak for the foreign economic state. I can speak of the United States condition. We have moments of hope. And then we fall short. Some major companies are slowly climbing up, taking open jobs with them, and therefore giving hope to those who need hope the most. Some are slowly climbing up. Thousands if not more are still struggling if not entirely giving up. I have a college degree in History and a graduate degree in Paralegal Studies. I now write short stories for hopeful publication and, as has been mentioned in the post, "Business venture," I create card designs to hopefully form a home business. I have yet to be published. I am still in the conceptual stage of my venture. Financial results of both are not guaranteed. If both fail, I have nowhere to go for a job. I have ceased my search in the legal field. And my last four resume submissions were sent in silence - no one replied. I mock my love for what the governor of Wisconsin signed into state congress as an official bill - collective bargaining for state unions is out. How stupid can he be? One of the most powerful concepts in American history past to present is the union and all of the benefits it offers. This man is entirely wiping away what we have stood on for centuries. Social Security is under threat for what I think is to save national government finances in the long run. The better majority of my grandmother's income is her social security checks every month. What will she do if this income is cut off so the United States reduces its debt? For all the lovers in the audience, "Come Undone" is not for you.
We as humans cannot control natural disasters of any form. Many can give warning, but still they cannot be controlled. Yet can we control any part of our environment? Can we reduce summer heat that gets hotter and hotter with every year? Can we regulate winter cold that gets more and more brutal with every year? Can we catch up with global warming before it beats us in the race? Is there anything we can do to save our planet? Is there anything we can change that we ourselves are doing that is harming the world? Anything? Is it a reflex of ours that we are slowly destroying our own home?
Perhaps an ordinary world is a dream too far out of our reach right now. So much is going on in so many countries - events truly leading world leaders to be lonely in their nightmares. For all the realists in the audience, "Nobody Knows" is for you. For all the hopefuls in the audience, keep believing in "What Happens Tomorrow."
Devastation around the world in the form of natural disasters. History in a heartbeat in the form of uprisings in the Middle East. Global economies stricken to invisibility with no return.
The uprisings in the Middle East came about with honorable intentions. Men and women alike in these countries deserve what they demand - just democracy. I applaud what they desire.
I cannot speak for the foreign economic state. I can speak of the United States condition. We have moments of hope. And then we fall short. Some major companies are slowly climbing up, taking open jobs with them, and therefore giving hope to those who need hope the most. Some are slowly climbing up. Thousands if not more are still struggling if not entirely giving up. I have a college degree in History and a graduate degree in Paralegal Studies. I now write short stories for hopeful publication and, as has been mentioned in the post, "Business venture," I create card designs to hopefully form a home business. I have yet to be published. I am still in the conceptual stage of my venture. Financial results of both are not guaranteed. If both fail, I have nowhere to go for a job. I have ceased my search in the legal field. And my last four resume submissions were sent in silence - no one replied. I mock my love for what the governor of Wisconsin signed into state congress as an official bill - collective bargaining for state unions is out. How stupid can he be? One of the most powerful concepts in American history past to present is the union and all of the benefits it offers. This man is entirely wiping away what we have stood on for centuries. Social Security is under threat for what I think is to save national government finances in the long run. The better majority of my grandmother's income is her social security checks every month. What will she do if this income is cut off so the United States reduces its debt? For all the lovers in the audience, "Come Undone" is not for you.
We as humans cannot control natural disasters of any form. Many can give warning, but still they cannot be controlled. Yet can we control any part of our environment? Can we reduce summer heat that gets hotter and hotter with every year? Can we regulate winter cold that gets more and more brutal with every year? Can we catch up with global warming before it beats us in the race? Is there anything we can do to save our planet? Is there anything we can change that we ourselves are doing that is harming the world? Anything? Is it a reflex of ours that we are slowly destroying our own home?
Perhaps an ordinary world is a dream too far out of our reach right now. So much is going on in so many countries - events truly leading world leaders to be lonely in their nightmares. For all the realists in the audience, "Nobody Knows" is for you. For all the hopefuls in the audience, keep believing in "What Happens Tomorrow."
Monday, March 7, 2011
Business venture
I will be taking some time away from Set List to focus on a newly created card design business venture.
The business is conceptual at this point with name and designs being tentative. I will say that my designs are themed in nature - rock music and dogs. Each theme has several unique designs ranging from standard in look to complex in creation. Once each theme is complete in stock and portfolio presentation, I hope to create a website for online presence as well as pitch my cards to local relevant businesses.
I am most thrilled by this business venture. I will return to Set List when I have samples and web link to share.
I have not said this in a long while. . .always remember to play it.
The business is conceptual at this point with name and designs being tentative. I will say that my designs are themed in nature - rock music and dogs. Each theme has several unique designs ranging from standard in look to complex in creation. Once each theme is complete in stock and portfolio presentation, I hope to create a website for online presence as well as pitch my cards to local relevant businesses.
I am most thrilled by this business venture. I will return to Set List when I have samples and web link to share.
I have not said this in a long while. . .always remember to play it.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Duran Duran in Chicago
Duran Duran has announced plans to come to Chicago's House of Blues on Saturday, April 23, 2011 as part of a mini North American tour for their new album. More information can be found on the band's website.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
A bit depressed today
Life has me down lately. In fact, I have been in a functional depression for awhile.
Reading has been an amazing form of therapy for me. However, sometimes music is the doctor's order. My collection consists of jazz and rock.
Does anyone have a recommendation as to the best genre or song to help me through my blue days?
Reading has been an amazing form of therapy for me. However, sometimes music is the doctor's order. My collection consists of jazz and rock.
Does anyone have a recommendation as to the best genre or song to help me through my blue days?
Friday, January 7, 2011
Stock Content
Every morning, I begin my day with online rounds. I check all email accounts. I check statistics for my Examiner account (I am the Chicago Dog Breeds Examiner for the online magazine, Examiner.com). I check statistics for my Helium.com account. I check statistics for my Blogger accounts.
Today was like any other. There was nothing special in my emails. My statistics on Examiner continue to rise in a slow fashion. I am now on Blogger and will soon check stats. A few moments ago, I logged on to Helium for the day. My stats were steady. . .except for revenue.
Today, on Helium, was not at all like any other. To my surprise, I gained a $5 adjustment in my daily earnings. What is more, my article "Music is for everyone" is classified as stock content. This notation, made on January 6, left me without speech. My article, "Music is for everyone," was published on Helium on May 11, 2010. The work was average and not my favorite. I did post the article here on Set List. Shortly after posting the article on this blog, my work ranked from middle of the pack to number 1. As of January 6, I went from the status of number 1 to being picked up by an outside publisher.
"Music is for everyone" is ranked at the top on Helium under the Entertainment channel AND!!! is stock content - as in purchased by an outside publisher! I am rockin' right now!
Gotta love music : )
Today was like any other. There was nothing special in my emails. My statistics on Examiner continue to rise in a slow fashion. I am now on Blogger and will soon check stats. A few moments ago, I logged on to Helium for the day. My stats were steady. . .except for revenue.
Today, on Helium, was not at all like any other. To my surprise, I gained a $5 adjustment in my daily earnings. What is more, my article "Music is for everyone" is classified as stock content. This notation, made on January 6, left me without speech. My article, "Music is for everyone," was published on Helium on May 11, 2010. The work was average and not my favorite. I did post the article here on Set List. Shortly after posting the article on this blog, my work ranked from middle of the pack to number 1. As of January 6, I went from the status of number 1 to being picked up by an outside publisher.
"Music is for everyone" is ranked at the top on Helium under the Entertainment channel AND!!! is stock content - as in purchased by an outside publisher! I am rockin' right now!
Gotta love music : )
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