Friday zZounds Showcase

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

Welcome back to Friday zZounds Showcase!

In this edition of the series, I will showcase a unique one of a kind -

Gibson Limited Edition Parlor Rosewood Acoustic-Electric Guitar, 12-String (with Case)  
$2,649 OR 12 Payments $220.75

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--GIBLSPR1

This compact version of the jumbo body shape is equally powerful in sound and comfortable when playing.  According to zZounds, the Gibson Parlor Rosewood Acoustic-Electric Guitar is great for studio use and live performance.  The guitar offers a built-in tuner.

The Gibson Parlor Rosewood Acoustic-Electric Guitar comes with a "Limited" emboss, fitted hardshell case, and Gibson Acoustic Certificate of Authenticity.  

This is a rare guitar.

If you are curious about the Gibson Limited Edition line, follow the link above and enjoy!  If you are seriously interested in this particular Gibson Limited Edition, follow the link above for specs and a payment plan.

January Set List

January Set List

1.  Winter Wonderland

2.  Let It Snow!  Let It Snow!  Let It Snow!

3.  Sleigh Ride

4.  Frosty the Snowman

5.  Silent Night

6.  Winter Marches On

7.  June in January

8.  Cold Weather Blues

9.  Baby, It's Cold Outside

10.  Ghost Story

And there you have it - January 2020 Set List.  Would you add anything to this list?  What would be on your January set list?

On the drums...

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

Welcome to the launch edition of zZounds Drums!  This series, which will be posted every Thursday, will feature a variety of my personally favorite instrument - the drums, from electronic to acoustic and so many more.

And so on the drums today are the bongos.  

Consider -

Latin Percussion CP221 Wood Bongos
$49.99

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--LBLCP221

According to zZounds, the bongos are perfect for beginning percussionists.  

The set comes with a tuning wrench and carrying bag.

The drums, in which ever form they be in, are the backbone to music - from big band jazz to smooth jazz to blues rock to hard rock to glam rock...literally, the list could easily go on.  The point is without the beat of the drums to set the tone of the performance - recorded or live - there may be no sense of where the song will start and end.

The bongos are an intriguing art form beyond a simple instrument.  Consider the Latin Percussion performance below -

Roger Taylor (Duran Duran) once said that when he was a child, he would bang on pots and pans.  He, of course, has advanced considerably from "pots and pans."  In a unique way, the bongos are like the cliche pots and pans but at a professionally designed level.  

If you are fascinated by the bongos, such as performed in the YouTube video, consider the link above.

As always,

Play it!

Van Halen - Eruption

"I didn't even play it right.  There's a mistake at the top end of it.  To this day, whenever I hear it, I always think, 'Man, I could've played it better.'" - Eddie Van Halen

No. 29 on Q Magazine's 100 Greatest Guitar Tracks (2005)

2nd greatest guitar solo (Guitar World magazine)

(Wikipedia)

I'm guessing his mistake paid off.

With that said, enjoy "Eruption" -

Van Halen

As iconic as Van Halen have come to be, they had to start somewhere.

Van Halen is the band's debut album, released in February 1978.  The album reached No. 19 on Billboard 200 in 1978.  By 1996, over 10 million copies sold in the U.S. and was certified Diamond.  (Wikipedia) 

Signature Van Halen songs from the debut album include - "Runnin' With the Devil," the "Eruption" guitar solo, "You Really Got Me," and many others.  (Wikipedia)

Point of intrigue -

Initial recordings in 1976 did not find interest with record labels and even Eddie Van Halen.  However, offers for concert performances were given and at one particular concert, the band was discovered by manager, Marshall Berle.  A performance at Whisky a Go Go (a Los Angeles club) caught the attention of Warner Bros.  From there, a contract was signed.  Early on, Van Halen opened for Journey, Montrose (whose vocalist was Sammy Hagar), and Black Sabbath in Europe and the United States.  (Wikipedia)

Point of interest -

A copy of Eddie Van Halen's custom created guitar - the Frankenstrat (a.k.a. The Frankenstein) - is housed in the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.  (Wikipedia)

Van Halen Certifications -

Certified Gold in May 1978

Certified Platinum in October 1978

Within the first year, over one million copies sold in the U.S. alone.

Certified 5x Multi-Platinum in October 1984

Certified 6x Multi-Platinum in February 1989

Certified 7x Multi-Platinum in September 1993

Certified 8x Multi-Platinum in July 1994

Van Halen International Certifications -

4x Platinum in Canada

Gold in Finland, France, Germany, UK

(Wikipedia)

The guitar solo in "Eruption" will forever be my most favorite signature.  To note, though, "You Really Got Me" charted No. 36 on Billboard in 1978 and "Runnin' With the Devil" charted No. 84 on Billboard in the same year.  

The iconic emphasis of the guitar in "Eruption" is where I will leave off.

U2 - Mysterious Ways

Straight to the point -

What you need to know about "Mysterious Ways" -
- 8th track from U2's 1991 album, Achtung Baby
- Released in December 1991
- Top Ten in Canada and other countries
- No. 1 in Ireland
- No. 1 on Billboard Modern Rock Tracks
- No. 1 on Album Rock Tracks
- No. 9 on Billboard Hot 100
- Certified Gold in New Zealand

(The full history of the song can be found on Wikipedia.)

Where the official music video for "Mysterious Ways" was featured in the Versus Tuesday post (below this post), I will feature here a live version of the song.  

Point of interest -
The live debut of "Mysterious Ways" came in February 1992.

"Mysterious Ways" Live from Chicago, 2005

Versus Tuesday

Astronaut2005 Drummer v. Original Performance

In this edition of Versus Tuesday, I am featuring "Mysterious Ways" by U2 and the drum cover take by Astronaut2005 Drummer.

Neil Peart Drum Solo - Rush Live in Frankfurt

zZounds Music Monday

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Music Monday, I am highlighting a variety of drum kit brands in honor of the late Neil Peart - drummer for Rush.  Neil was known for playing the Tama, Ludwig, and Drum Workshop.  And so in this post, I will highlight samples from the Tama, Ludwig, and Drum Workshop brands.

Tama

Tama IE62C Imperialstar Drum Kit, 6-Piece (with Meinl Cymbals),Burgundy Walnut  $799.99 OR 12 Payments $66.67

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--TAMIE62C

What you need to know 

- Tama is the industry standard for beginning drummers 

- High quality experience at the best value

- Maximum enjoyment and personal fulfillment ... Fully functional, highly durable, quality sounding acoustic kit ... Tama foundation

- Imperialstar provides sound and durability

If you are an aspiring drummer and know that you have to start somewhere, Tama may be the best option.  If you are seriously interested in learning to play the drums and Tama sounds ideal, follow the link above for more information and a payment plan.

Note - There is only 1 left.  If you are seriously interested in the Tama IE62C Imperialstar Drum Kit, shop now!

Ludwig

Ludwig LC175 Accent Drive Complete Drum Kit (5-Piece), Black, with Chrome Hardware  $429 OR 8 Payments $53.63

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--LUDLC175

What you need to know 

- The Ludwig LC175 Accent Drive Complete Drum Kit offers a solid foundation to a beginning drummer.  Everything you need to get started is in this kit -

Kick Drum

Snare Drum

2 Mid Toms

Floor Tom

Hi-Hat Stand

13" Hi-Hat Cymbals

Crash Cymbal

Snare and Hi-Hat Stand

Kick Drum Pedal

Throne

If you are an inspiring drummer, my best suggestion is the Ludwig LC175 Accent Drive all-inclusive starter kit.  You will be ready to rock straight out of the box.  How amazing is that?

If you are seriously interested in learning to play the drums and Ludwig sounds appealing, follow the link above for more information and a payment plan.

Drum Workshop

Drum Workshop DDLM2215 Design Series Drum Shell Kit, 5-Piece

$1,599.99 OR 12 Payments 133.33

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--DRUDDLM2215

What you need to know...I will let the Drum Workshop kit speak for itself.  I am guessing with the asking price, this Design Series is meant for the seasoned drummer.

If you are going pro and the Drum Workshop brand sounds intriguing, follow the link above for more information and a payment plan.  

Note - There are only 2 left.  If you are seriously interested in the Drum Workshop DDLM2215 Design Series, shop now!

(Wikipedia)

September 12, 1952 - January 7, 2020

zZounds Clearance Gear - Latin Percussion Bongos

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Clearance Gear, I am opting to go down a unique instrumental route that is new to Set List - the Bongos!  

If you love the Latin beat, this post is for you!  Explore below-

Latin Percussion 601 City Series Bongos, Vintage Sunburst, Blemished
$74.95*
*The set below is the last one in stock, so act now if seriously interested!

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--LATLP601NY?siid=203024

Make -

Siam oak shells

Rawhide heads

If you are okay with a minor imperfection and the City Series Bongos are otherwise a must have, follow the link above for specs and a payment plan if needed.

As always,

Play it!

zZounds Music Sunday

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In the post, zZounds Music Sunday, published earlier this month, I featured the Korg Micro-Korg Analog-Modeling Synth-Vocoder best meant for professionals.  The Korg brand is technical and requires time, patience, and passion to learn and master in skill.

In this edition of zZounds Music Sunday, I am scaling back to focus on the beginner, starting with the Yamaha brand.  Consider the following -

Yamaha PSR-E263 Portable Keyboard, 61-Key, New
$129.99 OR 6 Payments $21.67

https://www.zzounds.com/a-3960264/item--YAMPSRE263

Features -

- Yamaha Education Suite to learn 100 preset songs

- 385 Instrument Voices

- 100 Styles to experiment

- Opportunity to create own music

- Splits for practicing with a partner

- Auto power off saves energy after a period of inactivity

- Internal speakers with Aux Line Input to connect to any musical device

...and so much more

(An optional kit includes a foot switch, stereo headphones, 2-year extended warranty, and over $100 in rebate coupons for other Yamaha instruments and accessories.)

If you are curious about the Yamaha brand and this particular instrument, explore the link above.  If you are seriously interested in learning to play the keyboard, the Yamaha brand may be the perfect option, so follow the link above for more information and a payment plan.

As always,

Play it!

Set List Recommended

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of Set List Recommended, I am featuring a trending favorite - zZounds Music Monday.  The zZounds post is recommended for one reason - the instrument of choice was a Gibson Slash 1966 EDS-1275 Double Neck Electric Guitar (with Case).  zZounds Music Monday will stand on its own but as a refresher -

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--GIBDSEDSLSA

Only 1 left!

$13,299 - Call for 12 Payment Plan

Personally signed by Slash

Follow the links above for further details.

Friday zZounds Showcase

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

Welcome to the launch edition of Friday zZounds Showcase!  In this weekly series, I will highlight - showcase - instrumentals exclusive to the many brands featured on zZounds.  How is Friday zZounds Showcase different from other zZounds posts on Set List?  My answer - Each brand has its own exclusive and unique line of instruments.

An example in this launch edition of Friday zZounds Showcase is the Epiphone Exclusive Limited Edition DR100 Acoustic Guitar.  $149

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--EPIDR100LE

According to zZounds, the DR100 is Epiphone's best selling acoustic guitar.  This guitar is ideal for beginners and professionals alike for its look, sound, and build.  The best feature is the budget-friendly price, which if needed can be broken down into 4 payments of $37.25.

The Epiphone Exclusive Limited Edition DR100 Acoustic Guitar is limited for a reason - the limited-run color.  This guitar was crafted with spruce and mahogany.

If you are curious about the Epiphone Exclusive line, follow the link above and enjoy!  If you are seriously interested in this guitar, follow the link above for specs and a payment plan.

Set List Reader's Choice

In this edition of Set List Reader's Choice, your favorite post dates to February 2019!

At the time, I stumbled upon an interview with Simon Le Bon and John Taylor on YouTube.  The topic of the interview was to see just how well the two knew each other after so many years working together.  Of course as a fan of Duran Duran, I was curious to know what they would say.  In the post then, I let the video stand on its own.  In the post now, I will let the link below stand on its own.

Duran Duran Pop Quiz 

Neiman Marcus Boutique

I am an entrepreneur as a blogger, affiliate marketer, and Avon Independent Sales Representative.  

As an Avon Representative, I have a personally customized eStore with business open 24/7.  The majority of my work is networking online and offline.

As an affiliate marketer, I am in online sales - from music to fashion.  zZounds on Set List is an example.  Fashion FM is an example of a music and fashion mix, from Sam Ash Music gear to Shoptiques fashion to Topshop fashion. Saks Boutique is an example of upscale fashion as inspired by Saks Fifth Avenue UK.

...And then there is Neiman Marcus Boutique as inspired by one of the most coveted department stores in the United States alone.  Posts are based on Fashmates look books I design and the content is Neiman Marcus themed.  Each look book is numbered and titled Neiman Marcus Look Book (no.).  

Neiman Marcus Boutique was recently approved for affiliate marketing by Neiman Marcus Last Call...

...And now I am in business as a blogger and affiliate entrepreneur.  Follow the link above to explore my Neiman Marcus look books and stay tuned when I begin publishing affiliate sales!

Aerosmith - Dream On

"Dream On" is known as a power ballad - based on the emotional tone and singing of the song as well as conveying a message to the audience.

Upon release, "Dream On" became a classic rock radio staple.  As a side note, my mother's generation grew up with Aerosmith and "Dream On" was an anthem at school events.

"Dream On" was released in June 1973.  The song reached No. 59 on Billboard Hot 100.  It was re-issued in 1975 - now No. 81 on Billboard Hot 100 (January 1976), Top 40 (February 1976), and No. 6 (April 1976).

"Dream On" is well-known for the climax to Steven Tyler's iconic screams.

"Dream On" Certification -
Silver in the UK

(Wikipedia)

With all said, enjoy "Dream On" -

Aerosmith

As iconic as Aerosmith have come to be, they had to start somewhere.

Aerosmith is the band's debut album, released in January 1973.  In 1976, Aerosmith reached No. 21 on Billboard 200.

(Refer to Wikipedia for a full background)

Initial reception of the album upon release was rather poor.  It was not reviewed in Rolling Stone magazine.  "Critics compared the band unfavorably to the Rolling Stones..." (Wikipedia)

On the other hand, Aerosmith was claimed to have been an influence on Guns 'n Roses.

Aerosmith Certifications -

Platinum in Canada

2x Platinum in the U.S.

"Dream On" is by far the most recognized song by Aerosmith...and this is where I will leave off.

Duran Duran - A View To A Kill

Straight to the point -

What you need to know about "A View To A Kill" -
- 13th single by Duran Duran 
- Released in May 1985
- Only James Bond theme song to reach No. 1 on Billboard Hot 100
- No. 2 on UK Singles Chart
- 1986 Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song nomination
- Certified Gold in Canada
- Certified Silver in the UK

(The history of the song can be found on Wikipedia.)

"A View To A Kill" final performance -
"A View To A Kill" was the last track recorded by the original lineup until their reunion in 2001.  "A View To A Kill" as a performance at Live Aid (July 1985) in Philadelphia was their last before the split.

(Wikipedia)

"A View To A Kill" - Official Music Video

Versus Tuesday

Astronaut2005 Drummer v. Original Performance

In this edition of Versus Tuesday, I am featuring "A View To A Kill" by Duran Duran and the drum cover take by Astronaut2005 Drummer.

zZounds Clearance Gear - Gibson Flying V

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

Welcome to round two of zZounds Clearance Gear - your source for lightly used or blemished products that remain amazing to consider and play if purchased.

In this post, I am highlighting the Gibson Flying V B-2 Electric Guitar (with Gig Bag), Satin Ebony, Blemished - $1,219 (there is no payment plan listed).

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--GIBDSV200?siid=258041

Although details behind this guitar are limited, one note is made clear - the Gibson Flying V B-2 Electric Guitar (with Gig Bag), Satin Ebony, Blemished is the last one in stock.

As long as the guitar works to manufacturer's  standard and you do not mind cosmetic imperfections (such as scratches on the finish), this may be the one. 

If you are seriously interested, follow the link above.

As always,

Play it!

zZounds Music Monday

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Music Monday, I am highlighting a Gibson exclusive with one catch - there is only one left.  The cost is on the exceptional end and is best reserved for experienced professionals who have available funds.

Nonetheless...

Gibson Slash 1966 EDS-1275 Double Neck Electric Guitar (with Case)
$13,299 (Call for 12 Payment Plan)

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--GIBDSEDSLSA

(Wikipedia)

Notes -

Slash purchased the 1966 EDS-1275 Double Neck in a music store in Indiana in 1990.  

Chorus on one neck.  Solos on the other.

"...favorite tool for studio and stage..."

Specific to Slash's sound

The Gibson Slash 1966 EDS-1275 Double Neck Electric Guitar (with Case) on zZounds is an exact replica.  The guitar is personally signed by Slash.  The case is a vintage replica hardshell.  A custom Slash concho guitar strap and Certificate of Authenticity are also included in the package.

The Gibson guitar showcased in this post is a once in a lifetime purchase.  If you are an experienced professional, this could be the one you put into major use both in the studio and on stage.

As for the cost, remember that the total is broken down into monthly payments.

In the instance of the Gibson Slash 1966 EDS-1275 Double Neck Electric Guitar (with Case), I ask only that you consider.

zZounds Clearance Gear - Spector Bass Guitar

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

Welcome to the launch edition of zZounds Clearance Gear - your source for lightly used or blemished products that are nonetheless awesome to consider and play if purchased.

In this post, I am highlighting the Spector Legend 5 Classic Electric Bass, 5-String, Black Cherry Gloss, Blemished - $814.95 OR 6 Payments $135.83.

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--SPTLEG5C?siid=254689

This bass guitar features a lightweight ash body, genuine maple top and three piece neck, professional grade black hardware, and a die-cast bridge.  Follow the link above for more details.

If you are seriously interested in the Spector brand and this guitar but are hesitant because of the blemished notification, zZounds may be able to change your mind -

"...offers the looks, tone, and playability of basses twice its price..."

zZounds further notes that blemished products are still a great value and inspected as such.

If you are okay with a minor imperfection and this Spector Legend 5 Classic is otherwise a must have, follow the link above.

As always,

Play it!

zZounds Music Sunday

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made.

In this edition of zZounds Music Sunday, I am highlighting the Spector Legend series of bass guitars.  The Spector Legend guitars are perfect for seasoned bassists with finances to spend.

Consider -

Spector Legend 4 Standard Bass, Black Cherry
$549.99 OR 8 Payments $68.75

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--SPTLEG4S

Spector Legend 5 Standard Electric Bass, Black Cherry

$599.99 OR 12 Payments $50

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--SPTLEG5S

Spector Legend 5 Classic Electric Bass, 5-String, Black Cherry Gloss

$949.99 OR 12 Payments $79.17

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--SPTLEG5C

Spector Legend 4 Classic Electric Bass, Black Cherry Gloss

$899.99 OR 12 Payments $75

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--SPTLEG4C

Spector Legend 4 Neck-Thru Electric Bass, Faded Blue Gloss

$1,549.99 OR 12 Payments $129.17

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/item--SPTLEG4NT

If you are curious about the Spector brand, explore the links above.  If you are seriously interested in what Spector offers to bass guitarists, follow the links above for specs and an investment plan.

Question - Which legend are you?

As always,

Play it!

Set List Recommended

In this edition of Set List Recommended, I am featuring the successes of U2 as seemingly guaranteed by their debut album, Boy (1980).

The full history of U2 can be found on Wikipedia.  

- U2 basics -
Formation - Dublin, Ireland ... 1976

Personnel
Bono (Lead singer) 
The Edge (Lead guitarist, keyboards, backing vocals)
Adam Clayton (Bass guitar)
Larry Mullen, Jr. (Drums and percussion)

Genres considered - Rock, Alternative Rock, Post Punk

Lyrics are known for personal and sociopolitical themes

"Sunday Bloody Sunday" ... "Pride (in the Name of Love)"
Established U2 as a politically and socially conscious band

The Joshua Tree (1987) launched global success

Discography
Boy (1980)
October (1981)
War (1983)
The Unforgettable Fire (1984)
The Joshua Tree (1987)
Rattle and Hum (1988)
Achtung Baby (1991)
Zooropa (1993)
Pop (1997)
All That You Can't Leave Behind (2000)
How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (2004)
No Line on the Horizon (2009)
Songs of Innocence (2914)
Songs of Experience (2017)

The Joshua Tree Tour 2019 (Most recent)

Honors
150-170 million records sold worldwide
One of the best-selling music artists in history
The Joshua Tree - One of the best-selling albums sold
- U.S. - 10 million copies
- Worldwide - 25 million copies
22nd highest-selling music artist in the U.S.
8 albums at No. 1 in the U.S.
First group with  No. 1 albums in the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s in the U.S.
UK - 7 No. 1 singles ... Tied for 14th most of any artist
UK - 10 No. 1 albums ... Tied for 8th most of any artist
Ireland - Record for most No. 1 singles (19)
No. 22 on Rolling Stone's The 100 Greatest Artists of All Time
Bono - 32nd Greatest Singer (Rolling Stone)
The Edge - 38th Greatest Guitarist (Rolling Stone)
Mullen - 96th Greatest Drummer (Rolling Stone)
Bono and The Edge - No. 35 on Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time
No. 19 on VH1's The 100 Greatest Artists of All Time (2010)
8 songs listed in Rolling Stone's The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time (2010)
5 albums listed in Rolling Stone's The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time (2012)

"U2 wrote songs about things that were important and resonated with their audience" - Jeff Pollack, The Huffington Post

Awards

Grammy Awards
- 22 wins ... 47 nominations
- First win - The Joshua Tree (1988)
- Example wins
Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group
Album of the Year
Record of the  Year
Song of the Year
Best Rock Album

Brit Awards
- 7 wins ... 20 nominations
- 5 wins for Best International Group
- First international group to receive Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music

Meteor Awards
Ireland-based music awards
14 wins

American Music Award
Win

MTV Video Music Awards
6 wins

Q Awards
11 wins

Juno Awards
Canada-based music awards
2 wins

NME Awards
UK-based music awards
5 wins

Golden Globe Awards
2 wins

ASCAP Awards (2006)
"I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For"
"Vertigo"

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005

(Wikipedia)

Their songs are socially and politically driven.  One would think that such themes would limit their fan base.  Quite the contrary, their fan base is global with resonating unification based on the lyrics. Honors and awards are proof of their success and all that they have offered and continue to offer in the music industry and personal causes.

And the story of U2 had to start somewhere - Boy.

Set List Reader's Choice

In this edition of Set List Reader's Choice, your favorite post dates to June 2018!  

At the time, the post was a feature in the Wake Up Monday series where live concerts via YouTube were published.  

I have since discontinued the Wake Up Monday series but since the post link highlighted below has climbed so far up in "Lauren's Charts," a note is in due honor.

Wake Up Monday

And if you must know...