Thursday, March 31, 2022

March 2022 Set List


1.  Clocks
2.  Singin' In the Rain
3.  Here Comes the Sun
4.  Beautiful Morning
5.  Lovely Day
6.  Beautiful Day
7.  Tiger Tiger
8.  Unwritten
9.  What a Wonderful World
10.  Put Your Records On

And there you have it.  March 2022 Set List.


Wednesday, March 30, 2022

Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough...

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made at no cost to you.

...Gibson guitars!

In this final Gibson series, I am sharing offers to consider a purchase or simply purchase!

Gibson SG Buying Guide



Buying Guide List -
SG Standard Guitars
SG Junior, Special, and Faded Guitars
Unique SGs: Custom Shop, Limited Editions and More

Bozeman, Montana



Collections -
Original
Modern
Custom Shop

Custom Murphy Lab

...Get a Gibson

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made at no cost to you.



zZounds Fashion & Gear

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made at no cost to you.

Gibson Fashion

Gibson Custom Shop Heather T-Shirt - $29

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

Gibson Logo T-Shirt - $24.99

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

GibsonMain Page

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/cat--Gibson--3549

Shop Gibson because you just gotta...




Tuesday, March 29, 2022

Girls on Film Bonus - Bass Tutorial

A few years ago, John Taylor posted a series of YouTube bass tutorials in line with Duran Duran classics.  Each tutorial was meant to explain his instrumental take on a given song and how he broke down each song to better explain the recording process.

With the most recent Answer to the Song being "Girls on Film," I thought this bonus Set List post would best be explained by John Taylor.

Enjoy the video below!

Answer to the Song

Guess the song - "...two minutes later..."

Answer - "Girls on Film" (Live from London 2004)

This edition of Guess & Answer came across as either you know the song too well (the guess was randomly placed between two lyrics) or you really were not sure at all.  Further, if you knew the answer and the fact that the answer was from a live rendition without the need to research, you are an exceptional "duranie."

As with previous Guess & Answer editions, I am shariung the song as found on YouTube but on one condition - do not confuse this share with the upcoming Duran Duran birthday season as of April 26th.

Of course as always, enjoy and have fun!



Monday, March 28, 2022

Guess the Song

Refresher -

Guess the Song is a challenge to know a full song based on one random lyric.  The experience is meant to be fun and engageing.

With that said, consider the lyric below -

"...two minutes later..."

Sunday, March 27, 2022

Set List Reader's Choice

In this edition of Set List Reader's Choice, your top favorite is:


As a brief refresher, the fashion and gear brand featured was Zildjian for cymbals, apparel, and accessories.

The post link above will take you to the Zildjian links listed.  From there, you can explore individual cymbals. packs, and even cymbal accessories.

Point of interest - The Zildjian brand is preferred by Roger Taylor of Queen.

Saturday, March 26, 2022

zZounds Music Shop

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated on any purchase made at no cost to you.

Gretsch is an American instrumental manufacturing company founded in 1883 by German immigrant, Friedrich Gretsch.  At the present time, Gretsch manufactures electric and acoustic guitars, bass guitars, ukuleles, and drums.  Read more on  Wikipedia.

Gretsch truly is a historic, one of a kind guitar brand that is a highlight in this post. 

In this edition of zZounds Music Shop, I am offering a Gretsch Guitar Buying Guide for you to explore, consider, perhaps bookmark, or even buy!  Really though, just enjoy.


- Buying Guide Overall -


- Categories -

Professional Collection 
Electromatic Collection
Streamliner Collection
Acoustic Collection 

Each category has a unique description that is meant to resonate with guitarists interested in a given collection.  Follow Gretsch above.

Friday, March 25, 2022

Cover Up Friday

In this launch edition of Cover Up Friday, I am opting out of acoustic performances and introducing drum cover performances.  

Refresher about the drum cover - Astronaut2005 Drummer, whom I featured some years ago.

With that said, consider Duran Duran's "Anniversary" as the cover only.  

Thursday, March 24, 2022

Set List Journal Entry No. 9 : Walking On The Moon - The Police v. Duran Duran

In July 1969, the Apollo 11 mission touched down on the moon.  In the infancy of NASA, there seemed to be no way this would happen.   John Glenn's three orbits around Earth was impressive.  The first American spacewalk by Ed White left NASA control  holding their breath and in intense anxiety.  White was attached to the rocket with a tether.  While there was a secure connection, the tether had a mind of its own and wrapped itself around a fighting Ed White.  From a medical standpoint, he was not well with rising blood pressure, increased heart rate, and acute panic.  On the ground, the NASA physician was monitoring White's health levels.  White fought his way out of the tangled tether and back into the rocket.  Based on the physically stressed experience, he did not want to do that (spacewalk) again...

"I'm coming back in...and it's the saddest moment of my life."

In this Journal Entry No. 9, I am comparing musical honors to Apollo 11 by The Police and Duran Duran.  For Ed White's part in the Gemini 4 mission, a song should have been written and recorded in his honor.  Alas, touching down on the moon was every American astronaut's dream.  And when that did happen...

versus

Somewhere in the Set List archives, I have compared the two bands over the same song.  "Walking On The Moon" vocals, notes, and instrumentals came naturally to The Police.  What they had to offer to the song is all that was needed to make it a success.  "Walking On The Moon" vocals, notes, and instrumentals by Duran Duran tried hard to match The Police but the stamp they put on the song was not so much.  The keyboards did not exist in the original and therefore did not make sense in the cover.  I personally find Sting's natural pitch and Simon's natural pitch to not meet, which felt awkward to listen to.  The pace sounded a bit slower than The Police, although the original did pay great attention to the guitars.

With my opinion aside, The Police and Duran Duran are unique in their own sound and performance.  I will of course always be a fan of both.

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

zZounds Fashion & Gear

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made at no cost to you.


Zildjian Fashion

Classic Logo T-Shirt - $12.95

Baseball Cap - $19.95

Zildjian Main Page




Tuesday, March 22, 2022

Answer to the Song

Guess the song - "We've talked the whole night through"

Amswer - "Good Morning" (Singin' in the Rain)

Donald O'Conner, Debbie Reynolds, and Gene Kelly will take this song from here.  Enjoy the video below -

Monday, March 21, 2022

Guess the Song

Refresher -

Guess the Song is a challenge to know a full song based on one random lyric.  The experience is meant to be fun and engaging.

With that said, consider the lyric below -

"We've talked the whole night through"

Hint - This lyric is from a song on the same film featured last week.

Sunday, March 20, 2022

Set List Reader's Choice

In this edition of Set List Reader's Choice, your top favorite is:

Guess the Song

The lyric was "What a glorious feeling I'm happy again."

The lyric was from the song "Singin' in the Rain" - title track from the film of the same name.

Singin' in the Rain

Circa 1952

Starring Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, and Debbie Reynolds
Featuring Jean Hagen, Millard Mitchell, and Cyd Charisse

Based in the 1920s when Hollywood silent films were transitioning to talkies.

Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen directed and choreographed the movie.

Honors -

Donald O'Connor won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor - Motion Picture Musical or Comedy

Jean Hagen was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress

"...greatest musical film ever made..."
"....one of the greatest films ever made..."

Fifth greatest American motion picture of all time as 0f 2007 - listed by AFI (American Film Institue)

In 1989, Singin' in the Rain was preserved in the National Recording Registry.

Read more about the plot, cast, and honors on the Wikipedia link below.




Saturday, March 19, 2022

zZounds Music Shop - DJ Style

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commisison on any purchase made at no cost to you.

With Duran Duran well in the lead on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame voting ballot, I thought I would share DJ equipment to rock (and roll) the band in first place.  In this post, I am opting for Roger Taylor's skills as a defining pro DJ to pump up audiences worldwide.

- DJ Equipment -

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/cat--DJ--2447

Categories - Beat Production, Computer DJ, Complete DJ Systems, DJ Digital Media Players, DJ CD Players, DJ Mixers, Turntables, DJ Processors and Effects, DJ Lighting & Stage Lighting, Karaoke, DJ Tables and Booths, DJ Stands, DJ Cases, DJ Accessories



- Customer Recommended -

Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 Direct-Drive Turntable 
$699 ... Payment Plans -
$174.75 (4) ... $116.50 (6) ... $87.38 (8) ... $58.25 (12)

Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USB XP Direct-Drive Turntable
$599 ... Payment Plans -
$149.75 (4) ... $99.83 (6) ... $74.88 (8) ... $49.92 (12)

Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000SRT DJ Controller for Serato 
$1,349 ... Payment Plans -
$337.25 (4) ...$224.83 (6) ... $168.63 (8) ... $112.42 (12)

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2 USB DJ Controller
$219 ... Payment Plans - $54.75 (4) ... $36.50 (6)

Reloop Mixon 4 Professional DJ Controller
$899.99 ... Payment Plans -
$225 (4) ... $150 (6) ... $112.50 (8) ... $75 (12)

Pioneer DJ XDJ-1000MK2 Professional DJ Multi-Player
$1,199 ... Payment Plans -
$299.75 (4) ... $199.83 (6) ... $149.88 (8) ... $99.92 (12)

Rane Twelve MKII DJ Controller
$899 ... Payment Plans -
$224.75 (4) ... $149.83 (6) ... $112.38 (8) ... $74.92 (12)

Friday, March 18, 2022

Shout Out Friday

 In today's edition of Shout Out Friday, consider Pink and her acoustic version of "What About Us."

Thursday, March 17, 2022

Set List Journal - Entry No. 8

There are three songs by Duran Duran that bring me down when I am already in a state 0f depression - "Ordinary World," "Lonely In Your Nightmare," and "Falling Down."  The irony, though, is that all three songs offer the notion that when devastated by a life circumstance...never alone.  I feel the hope within each song that things will get better because they just have to.  Duran Duran keeps that mindset noted.

In Set List Journal - Entry No. 7, I shared my interest in "Lonely In Your Nightmare."  "Let me in" is a partial lyric from the song to which I never feel alone.

In this journal entry, I am sharing my interest in "Falling Down."

"Falling Down" inspiration -

In 2007, Britney Spears faced severe press scrutiny and questionable mental health issues.  Justin Timberlake, her ex-boyfriend, took to her concerns when writing "Falling Down."

The music video for "Falling Down"  focused on models facing rehab and the Duran Duran members acting as doctors and therapists.

As a side note, the decision to shoot the video in the Los Angeles based Linda Vista Hospital was not the best.  Linda Vista is notoriously haunted in a sketchy part of L.A. with gang members frequently being patients.  The hospital has since been converted into apartments that won't necessarily make the hauntings stop just because.

Inspiration and notes of intrigue aside, "Falling Down" has something to offer because it just does.  "Could I find someone out there to help me?" is a lyric that asks for help and support in difficult situations.

As you can see, darker lyrics to Duran Duran songs can in turn give me hope...and that means something.

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

White Wedding (Pt. 1 / Remastered 2002)

Bridal Look Book

In this second edition of Bridal Look Book, I am continuing the royal tone with satin, crystals, and diamonds.  In one word, I would define this design as opulent - rich with eleganc, romance, and accents.  A dream fairytale come to life.  A veil is not included as I want the focus to be on the wedding dress itself.  A tiara would naturally pair with a veil, so I instead am opting for a luxury bridal hair comb.  The white rose bouquet is meant to hold down the aisle.

And so the bridal look book below will say the rest of it.


Jimmy Choo - White Satin Pointy Toe Pumps

Goldie's Jewelry - 14K White Gold Emerald Cut Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

Crystal Bow Hair Comb


Silhouette - A-Line
Fabric - Satin 
Sleeves - Cap
Necklne - Illusion 
Back - Illusion with floral appliques
Style - Classic, Vintage

If I were to conclude this bridal look book in one word, it would truly be a classic.

Tuesday, March 15, 2022

Answer to the Song

Guess the song - "What a glorious feeling I'm happy again"

Answer - "Singin'" In the Rain"  (film and song title)

Gene Kelly will take this song from here.  Enjoy the video below -

Monday, March 14, 2022

Guess the Song

As always,

Guess the song is a challenge to know a full song based on one random lyric.  The experience is meant to be fun and engaging.

With that said, consider the lyric below -

"What a glorious feeling I'm happy again"

Hint - This lyric to the song in question reflects historic pop culture in Hollywood.  Go from there.

How well will you know this song then?

Sunday, March 13, 2022

Journey

Journey formed in San Francisco, California in 1973.  Of the many past and current members, the greatest success came with Steve Perry as lead vocalist.  One of the most well-known and defining songs is -

"Don't Stop Believin'" (1981)

Escape - 7th album (1981)

- No. 1 on Billboard 200

- "Open Arms" hit

Frontiers - 8th album (1983)

- No. 2 in the U.S.

- No. 6 on the UK Albums Chart

The full history of the band and noteworthy albums is extensive to write here, so follow Wikipedia to read more.  

Honors -

No. 96 on VH1's 100 Greatest Artists of All Time

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2017

Success -

19 Top 40 singles in the U.S. alone

"Don't Stop Believin'" No. 3 on iTunes downloads (2005)

48 million albums sold in the U.S.

Over 80 million albums sold worldwide

Certifications -

Greatest Hits (1988) - RIAA Diamond

25 Gold & Platinum albums

Point of intrigue - "Don't Stop Believin'" was an anthem to patients being discharged from hospitals where once fighting against COVID=19.

Point of interst - "Don't Stop Believin'" was the anthem to the 2005 Chicago White Sox World Series champions and the 2010 San Francisco Giants World Series champions.

"Don't Stop Believin'" is of great meaning to me for a variety of reasons, from getting through seven years as an undergraduate to accomplishing tasks that would otherwise cause severe panic and so many other reasons in between.

I think Journey is one of the most meant to be bands in America and on a global scale for their relatable and inspiring songs.

That is impressive.

Set List Reader's Choice

In this edition of Set List Reader's Choice, your top favorite is:

Answer to the Song

Refresher -

The lyric toward the answer was "I want to get back to my City by the bay."

The answer was "Lights" by Journey.  The song was origiunally on the band's fourth album, Infinity.

Although Aerosmith is an American band, they have long been considered the U.S. version of British invasions.  On the other hand, Tom Petty and Journey are about as Americana in music as you can get.

Go on a journey with me as I discuss more about the band in the post above.

Saturday, March 12, 2022

zZounds Music Shop - TASCAM Mixcast 4

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made at no cost to you.

In today's zZounds Music Shop, I am featuring the TASCAM Mixcast 4.  This is not a musical instrument.  The TASCAM is a podcast work station.  Alth0ugh I have long been curious about podcasts and podcast setups, what goes behind the scenes is complicated to a novice and, I imagine, fascinating to those hosting.

And so for those hosting a podcast, consider what zZounds has to offer.


TASCAM Mixcast 4 Podcast Workstation
$549

Payment Plans - 
$137.25 (4) ... $91.50(6) ... $68.63 (8) ... $45.75 (12)


Consider the videos below for a demonstration -


Friday, March 11, 2022

Shout Out Friday

In today's edition of Shout Out Friday -
Pink - "Perfect" Acoustic

Thursday, March 10, 2022

Set List Journal - Entry No. 7

Although not the self-titled debut album, Rio is by far Duran Duran's most iconic album with "Rio" defining their stamp on pop culture amd the music industry.  As the concluding song to Duran Duran concerts, "Rio" offers a magical experience with shining lights, intense high, calm low, and overall a lasting and memorable sensation...

...And then there is a down point to the album - "Lonely In Y9ur Nightmare."

When I am in a depression, "Lonely In Your Nightmare" is rather soothing because I don't feel alone when I listen to the lyrics.  I feel a sense of comfort and company.  I tend to listen to this song when I am in a deep depression.

When I need to know that I am not alone, Duran Duran is an escape.

In this Set List Journal - Entry No. 7, I thought I would share "Lonely In Your Nightmare" as found on YouTube -

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Duran Duran - Come Undone (Official Music Video)

Bridal Look Book Sentiment

Bridal Look Book

In this launch ediiton of Bridal Look Book, I am sharing bridal samples by a variety of designers.  All are Pinterest features and favorites among passersby.

So how does Brdal Look Book relate to Set List?  There is the instrumental as the bride walks down the aisle during the cereony.  There is the music to dance to during the reception - from first dance as a married couple to so many joining in.

For now, the new Fashion Wednesday theme is just look book designer samples.

"Royal Satin & Diamonds"

2022 Collection

Jimmy Choo Pumps


Classic 26 Carat Diamond Necklace


Royal Style - Worn by Kate Middleton in her 2011 wedding to Prince William


Round Diamond Infinity Engagement Ring In 14k White Gold

Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Answer to the Song

 Guess the song - "I want to get back to my City by the bay"

Amswer - "Lights"

Album - Infinity 


"Lights" - Track #1 on Infinity (4th album, Released in 1978)

In 1978, "Lights" reached 68 on Billboard Hot 100.

Infinity Certifications -
Gold in Canada
3x Platinum in the U.S.

Monday, March 7, 2022

Set List Special Edition - Fender Acoustasonic Electric Guitar

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made at no cost to you.

Fender

Acoustasonic Strat


In full - Fender American Acoustasonic Stratocaster 
Electric Guitar (with Gig Bag)
$1,999 (Payment Plan not listed)

Fender

Acoustasonic Tele


In full - Fender Acoustasonic Player Telecaster
Electric Guitar (with Gig Bag)
$1,199 ... Payment Plans - $300 (4)/$200 (6)

Guess the Song

Refresher per usual -

Guess the Song is a challenge to know a full song based on one random lyric.  The experience is meant to be fun and engaging.

With that said, consider the lyric below -

"I want to get back to my City by the bay"

Hint - The band behind this lyric has shown up one other time on Guess the Song.

How well will you know this song then?

Sunday, March 6, 2022

Set List Reader's Choice

In this edition of Set List Reader's Choice, your top favorite is:

Set List Special Edition - Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 2022 Nominees 

Refer to the link above for the full list of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 2022 Nominees. 

As for the leaderboard - 
Duran Duran  - 542,526
Eminem - 504,839

Cast your ballot at Fan Vote 2022.

Although there are many other artists in the fan ballot casting, the top two are continuing to fight for first position.  Eminem led the leaderboard for some time until Duran Duran got really close.  A back and forth led to Duran Duran just ahead in first place and is now well under way in first place.

Follow the fan vote link just above to cast your ballot!

Saturday, March 5, 2022

zZounds Music Shop - Guitar Blowouts

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made at no cost to you.

zZounds tends to cater to every budget.  For pros and collectors, pricing is on the higher side.  For budding musicians, pricing is much lower t0 focus really on the instrument itself.  Amd then there is clearnace, "blowouts" as termed on zZ0uZnds.  

In this edition of zZounds Music Shop, I am offering instrumentals to mach all budgets.

- Blowouts -

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/blowouts

- Clearance Guitars, Amps, and Effects -

https://www.zzounds.com/blowouts--Guitars-Amps-and-Effects--2543 

- Electric Guitars -

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/blowouts--Electric-Guitars--2640

This category includes 6-String, 7-String, Left-Handed, Signature Models, and much more.

- Acoustic-Electric Guitars -

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/blowouts--Acoustic-Electric-Guitars--2576

This category includes 6-String and 12-String.

- Acoustic Guitars -

https://www.zzounds.com/a--3960264/blowouts--Acoustic-Guitars--2561

This category includes 6-String, Left-Handed, 12-String, and much more.

Other categories include pedals and effects, amps, and accessories.

Consider a blowout purchase!

Friday, March 4, 2022

Shout Out Friday

In this edition of Shout Out Friday, I am featuring an acoustic cover of U2's classic, "With Or Without You."

Happy Friday :)

Thursday, March 3, 2022

Set List Journal - Entry #6

A few years ago, I came across drum brands preferred by Roger Taylor of Duran Duran.  My best guess for Roland use is in the studio for recording or testing the latest version of electronic pads.  My best guess for Tama use is on stage in a concert.

The best way I can better explain my thought in this journal entry is through zZounds.

Reminder - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a commission on any purchase made at no cost to you.

Roland



Explore V-Drums Kits, Multipad Drums, and more!

Tama



Explore Drum Hardware, Accessories, and Snare Drums.

And from there I shall conclude.

Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Fashion Wednesday

In this edition of Bloomingdale's for Fashion Wednesday, explore the look book below.



When I style look books on Fashmates, I base my designs on color palette and occasion.  Dress up or dress down is another key focus.

In this edition of Fashion Wednesday, I am offering sunshine yellow as the sunshine slowly sets.

The ideal occasion for this look is date night with gourmet dinner al fresco style and lemon ice from a vendor.

So what are we looking at?

Vince Camuto Scalloped Eyelet Lace-Up Slip Dress

SJP By Sarah Jessica Parker Fawn Suede Mid Heel Pointed Toe Pumps

BAUBLEBAR Bermuda Pineapple Drop Earrings

Lipstick Queen Mornin' Sunshine Lipstick