September 30, 2023
Set List
1. September
2. Indian Summer
3. Pressure Off
4. Golden
5. Living In America
6. Shining Star
7. Arrival
8. Tom Sawyer
9. Stayin' Alive
10. Don't You Forget About Me
Saturday, September 30, 2023
Friday, September 29, 2023
Weekly's Best - Colors of Autumn
In this edition of Weekly's Best, your top favorite is:
As a refresher, Colors of Autumn featured Pura Vida's Autumn Shores Friendship Pack and the full jazz soundtrack of the film, When Harry Met Sally, which was frequently based in the Fall season.
As a refresher of Autumn Shores Friendship Pack:
$48
Discount code - LAURENHOVIS20
- My favorite colors -
Blues, Greens, Gold, Burgundy
In this first Friday in the Fall season, I am opting out of music to focus on the beautiful wonders of autumn in the form of bracelet jewelry.
Follow the link above to explore individual colors offered in the pack.
Thursday, September 28, 2023
Boston - More Than A Feeling - Remastered
In this last Set List edition of Mix It Up, I am featuring an American classic - "More Than a Feeling" by Boston.
"More Than a Feeling" was the lead single from Boston's 1976 debut album, Boston.
Genres considered - Hard Rock & Pop Rock
Meaning - Losing someone close and finding music to connect a person to memories.
Point of interest - Tom Scholz, as the songwriter, did not experience such meaning personally and the name "Marianne" was taken from his cousin. There was no actual Marianne.
Honors -
No. 5 on Billboard Hot 100 (September 1976)
39th best hard rock song of all time by VH1 (2008)
On Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's list of the 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll
No. 212 on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time
Certified Gold in Denmark, Germany, and the U.S.
Certified Platinum in Italy and the UK
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
Cover Versus
In this edition of Cover Versus, the song is "I Shot the Sheriff" original to Bob Marley and covered by Eric Clapton.
Tuesday, September 26, 2023
Colors of Autumn
The Fall equinox has officially settled in. The colors of Autumn are rich and bold. The air is crisp. The pitter patter of cool rain taps on the windows. Jean jacket weather, sweater weather. Lounge before a fireplace with lit logs and flickering flames. Wrap up in a cozy throw with a soothing cup of coffee. Take in the new season.
Pura Vida is a jewelry business with fashion and accessories on the side. The main product is innovative threat bracelets that can be themed, collaborated with, or however you desire. My personal favorites are Autumn themed and the collaboration Pura Vida has with the Harry Potter franchise (due honor to Warner Brothers copyright and trademark).
For the time being, let's focus on the Autumn theme...
As for the music selection for Set List, consider the soundtrack to When Harry Met Sally - the backdrop to many scenes is set in the Fall.
With that said -
Discount code - LAURENHOVIS20
10 shades in the pack
- My favorite colors -
Blues, Greens, Gold, Burgundy
Settle into jazz
by Harry Connick Jr.
When Harry Met Sally
Monday, September 25, 2023
zZounds Live
Disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made at no cost to you.
Eris 2nd Gen
Eris Studio
Eris Pro
Eris Subs
Sunday, September 24, 2023
Bruno Mars - Stop. Wait a minute.
Set List Memories
Peter Gene Hernandez is better known as Bruno Mars. He was born on October 8, 1985.
His genres considered include pop, R&B, funk, soul, reggae, disco, and rock.
Bruno is the lead to his band, the Hooligans. The current lineup includes -
Bruno Mars - Lead vocals, Rhythm guitar
Philip Lawrence - Backing vocals
Jamareo Artis - Bass guitar
Eric Hernandez - Drums
Kameron Whalum - Trombone, Backing vocals
Dwayne Dugger - Saxophone
James King - Trumpet, Backing vocals
John Fossit - Keyboard
Mateus Asato - Rhythm guitar, Lead guitar
3 albums -
Doo-Wops & Hooligans (2010)
Unorthodox Jukebox (2012)
24K Magic (2016)
Bruno has 8 No. 1 singles in the U.S.
Bruno is the first solo male artist with 9 No. 1 positions in the U.S. Mainstream Top 40 (2018).
As of 2020, Mars has sold 200 million singles.
Bruno is the first artist to receive 6 diamond certified singles in the U.S. (2022). As a reminder, diamond certification is achieved with or in excess of 10,000,000 in sales. One such honor is impressive enough so six is truly a treasure.
Point of interest - As of 2021, Mars has earned $604.4 million in concert sales. Less than 30 artists have achieved $600 million in Boxscore history.
Awards -
15 Grammy Awards*
*Record/Song of the Year - 2 songs, Same album (2018)
*Record of the Year - 3 times (2022)
4 BRIT Awards
4 Guinness World Records
11 American Music Awards
14 Soul Train Music Awards
Honors -
No. 6 on Billboard's Hot 100 Songwriters (2013)
No. 41 on Billboard's Greatest of All Time Artists (2019)
Noteworthy -
Forbes "30 Under 30" (2014)
(Put into perspective - Bruno is two years younger than me so when he made the list, he was 29 years old.)
Saturday, September 23, 2023
988
In this special edition of Fashion Saturday, I am highlighting 988 - Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Just talk because help is available.
Pura Vida has teamed up with Suicide Awareness and Prevention. My favorite is the Suicide Awareness Style Pack -
Purple Original
Woven Ball Bead
Braid & Coin Chain Style
Fashion Look Book
Shades of Blue & Purple - Shades of Mental Health PV
- What's Included -
Emporio Armani Tailored Flare Trousers (Farfetch)
European Culture Blazer (Yoox - Sold out)
Manolo Blahnik Pumps (Source unknown)
----------------------------------------------------------
Suicide Awareness Style Pack
Use code LAURENHOVIS20 for 20% OFF.
To conclude this post, find hope in Duran Duran's "Lonely In Your Nightmare."
Always know to let help in because help is available.
Friday, September 22, 2023
Weekly's Best - Magical Exploration
In this edition of Weekly's Best, your top favorite is:
In the post link above, the Harry Potter theme was all the craze on Set List - from a Gryffindor look book to the full Harry Potter soundtrack.
In this post, I thought I would offer magical exploration via Amazon based on the look book (and a few extras along the way).
With that said, browse and shop.
(Affiliate disclaimer applies)
Thursday, September 21, 2023
Special Edition - September Birthday
His name is Henry "Hank" Zander. He was born on September 21, 1925 to Oscar and Elsa Zander in Chicago, Illinois. He was an only child until the birth of his sister, Elvira Estelle "Dell" Zander, on January 5, 1929. The family lineage is pure Swedish. Henry and Estelle were Swedish-American and only knew American as citizenship. Their parents took great pride in being sworn in as American citizens and blending into Chicago's melting pot of cultures, home countries, and uniting as a community.
Let's get back on track - Uncle Hank's 98th birthday.
In the 1920s, the television set did not exist. The advent of the radio offered family programs, children's programs, and more I am sure.
In 1925, the No. 1 radio program was Grand Ole Opry - originally titled Barn Dance.
Side note - On January 1, 1925 in Sweden, Sveriges Radio broadcast its first program.
Second side note - On March 4, 1925, the second presidential inauguration of Calvin Coolidge was the first to be broadcast.
Side track - More television viewers tuned into the birth of "Little Ricky" than the inauguration of President Eisenhower.
Anyway...In conclusion, I would like to send a special thought to my great uncle celebrating his birthday in Heaven and always surrounded by his family.
Grattis pa fodelsedagen, Uncle Hank.
Happy Birthday, Uncle Hank.
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
Cover Versus
In the launch edition of Cover Versus, I considered who performed "Higher Ground" better - Stevie Wonder or the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
In this edition, the song is "I wish" and the cover is by Lady Gaga in a live Grammy tribute performance. The original, of course, is by Stevie Wonder.
Tuesday, September 19, 2023
Magical
As October nears, the magic of the Fall season colors the landscape, frosts the lingering grass, the aroma of wood burning fireplaces warms the crisp air, and the love of cozy wear finally returns.
As October nears, so too does the spark of a magical month capped with, of course, Halloween. Spooky best defines a month always filled with curious fear...
The characters were not fearful but were impressively magical with nearly spooky capabilities. (The antagonist was evil though.)
In this post, I am sharing hints - hints of Harry Potter music and hints of Harry Potter fashion. October is near.
Go Gryffindor
(Amazon)
(Affiliate disclaimer applies)
(Pura Vida)
Original Gryffindor Charm Bracelet
Gryffindor 3 Ring Stack
------------------------------------------------
Use code LAURENHOVIS20 for 20% OFF.
Monday, September 18, 2023
zZounds Live
Disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Sunday, September 17, 2023
Chris Botti in Boston° Live • 2009
(Affiliate disclaimer applies)
In 2009, a PBS special aired Chris Botti Live in Boston. Although the majority of my CD collection is Duran Duran, many albums are by Chris Botti - from Night Sessions to Italia. Live from London was my first in a brief concert DVD collection. Live in Boston was my second. I was drawn to every performance and every unique guest musician and the entire set list...
Chris Botti Live in Boston set list!
1. Ave Maria
2. When I Fall In Love
3. Caruso
4. Seven Days
(feat. Sting & Dominic Miller)
5. Broken Vow (feat. Josh Groban)
6. Flamenco Sketches
7. Hallelujah
8. I've Got You Under My Skin
(feat. Katharine McPhee)
9. Cinema Paradiso (feat. Yo-Yo Ma)
10. The Look of Love (feat. Sy Smith)
11. Emmanuel (feat. Lucia Micarelli)
12. Glad to Be Unhappy (feat. John Mayer)
13. Cryin' (feat. Steven Tyler)
14. Smile (feat. Steven Tyer )
15. Indian Summer
16. Shape of My Heart
(feat. Sting & Josh Groban)
17. If I Ever Lose My Faith in You
(feat. Sting & Dominic Miller)
18. Time to Say Goodbye
Duran Duran Live From London 2005
(Affiliate disclaimer applies)
In December 2007, Duran Duran (Simon, Nick, John, and Roger) were in Chicago for an album signing event at a local Best Buy. I couldn't go because I was in a class at the time so my mom purchased a Live from London DVD to celebrate my last Fall semester as an undergraduate. I was addicted. I watched the concert and brief documentary every day. I memorized the lyrics to every song. I memorized the set list...
Duran Duran Live from London Set List!
1. Reach Up For the Sunrise
2. Hungry Like the Wolf
3. Is There Something I Should Know?
4. Union of the Snake
5. Come Undone
6. A View to a Kill
7. What Happens Tomorrow
8. The Chauffer
9. Planet Earth
10. I Don't Want Your Love
11. New Religion
12. Ordinary World
13. Night Boat
14. Save a Prayer
15. Notorious
16. The Reflex
17. Careless Memories
18. The Wild Boys
19. Girls on Film
20. Rio
Saturday, September 16, 2023
Icon
In this special edition of Fashion Saturday, I am featuring an icon in fashion most preferred by an icon to the tune of jazz - Tom Ford and Chris Botti.
When off stage, Chris Botti is generally relaxed in wear but when performing, his only designer interest is Tom Ford. I once heard that because of this interest, styling Chris is easy.
Tom Ford's style in menswear is refined and classic, from the crisp collar of the dress shirt to the distinct hem of the pant leg.
Chris Botti's music style is best defined as classic jazz with one notable influence in mind - Miles Davis. Miles was a hint around the edges in life but when he played...perfection. When Chris plays...emotional draw.
And so in this Icon special, consider the Tom Ford look book below -
In this post, I am noting effortless menswear and timeless instrumental.
Friday, September 15, 2023
Weekly's Best - Nostalgic
In this edition of Weekly's Best, your top choice is:
"As Time Goes By" is a jazz song originally recorded in 1931. In 1942, the song became well known when it was featured in the film, Casablanca.
"As Time Goes By" has been covered by such artists as Jimmy Durante, Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, Nancy Sinatra, and many more.
In modern pop culture, the song was the title and theme in the British television series, As Time Goes By. Of the five primary actors and two from time to time, you may most be aware of Dame Judi Dench.
"As Time Goes By"
You must remember thisA kiss is just a kissA sigh is just a sighThe fundamental things applyAs time goes by
And when two lovers wooThey still say "I love you"On that you can relyNo matter what the future bringsAs time goes by
Moonlight and love songsNever out of dateHearts full of passionJealousy and hateWoman needs man, and man must have his mateThat no one can deny
It's still the same old storyA fight for love and gloryA case of do or dieThe world will always welcome loversAs time goes by
Moonlight and love songsNever out of dateHearts full of passionJealousy and hateWoman needs man, and man must have his mateThat no one can deny
It's still the same old storyA fight for love and gloryA case of do or dieThe world will always welcome loversAs time goes by
Thursday, September 14, 2023
As Time Goes By
As Time Goes By
7/11
Dedicated to Estelle Flosi Zander
January 5, 1929 - September 14, 2021
Wednesday, September 13, 2023
Cover Versus
In previous Versus posts, the theme was based on similar messages through lyrics and song titles.
In this Cover Versus, the theme is who performed better - original or cover?
Song - "Higher Ground"
Original - Stevie Wonder ... Cover - Red Hot Chili Peppers
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
What Had Happened Was
- What had happened was -
His birthday came along.
In September 1972, the No. 1 album on Billboard 200 was Chicago V by Chicago.
Chicago V is the fourth album by the American rock band, Chicago.
Rank 5 in Australia
Rank 14 Finish Albums
Rank 24 in the UK
Certified Platinum in Canada
Certified 2x Platinum in the U.S.
Personnel -
Robert Lamm - acoustic piano, electric piano, organ, lead/backing vocals
Terry Kath - electric/acoustic guitars, lead/backing vocals
Peter Cetera - bass guitar, lead/backing vocals
James Pankow - trombone, percussion, brass arrangements
Walter Parazaider - saxophone, flute, percussion
Lee Loughnane - trumpet, flugelhorn, percussion, backing vocals
Danny Seraphine - drums, congas, antique bells, percussion
Birthday Special, Mr. Dynamic
Happy Birthday, "Mr. Dynamic" Michael
September 12, 1972
His name is Michael. He is a close friend if not more. On this day, 51 years ago, he was born into a curious family and led a curious life to date. He is dedicated and hard working. He has experienced hiccups along the way but who hasn't? His grown children come first. His pure happiness is contagious. His empathy and refusal to judge goes above and beyond in appreciation. He is not perfect and that's okay!
The No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 single in 1972 was "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face." The artist was Roberta Flack. The original recording was by British singer-songwriter, Ewan MacColl, for his love and eventual marriage to Peggy Seeger. On the other hand, the cover version went international for Roberta Flack in 1972.
Roberta Flack's version won a Grammy for Record of the Year and a Grammy for Song of the Year.
Roberta Flack's version further ranked No. 4 on Billboard R&B Chart and No. 14 on UK Singles Chart. The version also ranked No. 1 in Canada's RPM magazine.
Historical reference - "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" aired on the Apollo 17 mission and its final orbit around the moon before returning to Earth. This mission would be the final human exploration of our satellite. "...Face..." was in reference to the "face" of the moon.
"The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" - Play it
Monday, September 11, 2023
Taps
September 11, 2001
New York City Loss - 2,753
Pentagon Loss - 184
Shanksville, Pennsylvania Loss - 40
In New York, 343 deaths were firefighters. The victims either jumped or burned.
In Pennsylvania, passengers were ultimately unsuccessful in bringing down the terrorists. The crash, though, prevented the intended target - the White House.
All planes grounded or escorted to the nearest landing strip.
He was observing an elementary school class with students eager to learn yet would never know of that day. When his detail whispered into his ear that America is under attack, he went from a joyful smile to a grim smile. The President of the United States now needed this country to unite in the face of cruel and heartless brutality but for what?
Extremists destroyed the course of history. Innocent Muslims live forever with false judgment.
With that said...
Sunday, September 10, 2023
Puddle Of Mudd - Blurry (Official Music Video)
Coldplay is considered to be alternative in genre. Yet when I think of alternative, I recall intense lyrics and beat...somewhere in between classic rock (think AC/DC as an example) and house (think Roger Taylor being a club DJ as an example).
This leads me to consider Puddle of Mudd defining true alternative music. While the tone is somewhat musically intimidating, the lyrics and video theme speak volumes to the meaning behind the song.
I would best describe "Blurry" as a harsh divorce and brutal custody battle. My opinion only. What is yours?
Saturday, September 9, 2023
Duran Duran Formal
In this special edition of Fashion Saturday, I am featuring a staple designer most preferred by Nick Rhodes. When on stage, in interviews, or just strolling about during tours, Nick presents himself in business casual with blazer, dress pants, and a casual top. In photoshoots on the other hand, Nick pulls out all the stops in couture fashion.
And so in this Duran Duran Formal special, one of many designer interests by Nick Rhodes is Giorgio Armani.
Consider the Giorgio Armani look book below -
The apparel, footwear, and sunglasses are designed by the Armani brand.
The silver chain bracelet is a couture jewel but unfortunately not named. If you notice closely, you will find Nick and Andy wearing chain bracelets during the filmed Live from London DVD.
Fashion Saturday offers a break from direct music posts while nonetheless honoring the natural connection between fashion and music.
Duran Duran Formal highlights exquisite luxury in men's fashion while noting an ultimate keyboardist being a member of an ultimate band.
The natural connection between fashion and music.
Friday, September 8, 2023
Grateful Dead - Where History Began
Debut album - Released in March 1967
No. 73 on Billboard Pop Albums
Personnel -
Bob Weir - Rhythm Guitar, Vocals
Ron "Pigpen" McKeman - Organ, Harmonica, Vocals
Bill the Drummer - Drums, Percussion
Jerry "Captain Trips" Garcia - Lead Guitar, Vocals, Arrangement
Phil Lesh - Bass Guitar, Vocals
August 1, 1942 - August 9, 1995
Weekly's Best
In this edition of Weekly's Best, your top favorite is:
The Grateful Dead "Shakedown Street" Official Audio video.
In the noted post, I listed the band's genres to be considered. In this post, I am delving into the successes and honors bestowed upon the Grateful Dead.
Point of intrigue - Duran Duran fans are known as "duranies." Grateful Dead fans are known as "deadheads."
Intrigue aside, delve in I shall.
Grateful Dead
Formed in 1965 in Palo Alto, California
"Touch of Grey" was the band's only Top-40 hit
No. 57 on Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Artists of All Time (2011)
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1994)
Between 1967 and 1990, the Grateful Dead recorded 22 albums
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Grateful Dead - Shakedown Street (7" Singles Vol. 16) [Official Audio]
In this Set List edition of Mix It Up, I am featuring a one and only iconic band - The Grateful Dead. The genre base is rock but with elements of blues, jazz, folk, country, bluegrass, rock and roll, gospel, reggae, and psychedelia.
Little is said about the lyrical meaning behind "Shakedown Street" but the beat is catchy and leaves listeners with the want to play the song again.
The music video is unique, creative, and a true mix it up. I find myself to be a Deadhead for this song only.
And so...
Play it!
Wednesday, September 6, 2023
Versus Opportunity
In this edition of Versus, I am offering a once in a lifetime opportunity to rule the world...
Consider Talking Heads and Tears For Fears.
Once in a Lifetime
Talking heads
Everybody Wants to Rule the World
Tears for Fears
Tuesday, September 5, 2023
Fashion Tuesday Live
Disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made at no cost to you.
In this edition of Fashion Tuesday Live, consider cozy affirmation womenswear from the independent fashion brand, Cents of Style.
Today's live performance will be "Save a Prayer" by Duran Duran in London.
Cents of Style
Heather Natural & Chai
Sizes XS/S/M/L/XL/2XL/3XL
"Strong and Capable Affirmation Sweatshirt"
"Meant To Be Affirmation Sweatshirt"
