All I Want For Christmas Is ....

Tis the season to be jolly....Christmas season is here! Do you feel the festive spirit?

While shopping malls are in full swing with the Christmas decors, I can't help myself from humming a Christmas tune or two. I guess the yuletide spirit has gotten to me!

There is still one full month of Christmas mood to be enjoyed so I am going to enjoy it to the fullest! Now what do I want for Christmas? Let me see...

1. A Macbook Pro

2. A Steinway Grand Piano

3. An iPad 2

4. A full year's supply of Snowflake Taiwanese desserts

5. An all-expense paid trip to Switzerland

6. Winning the lottery

7. No house chores for a year

The list can go on and on....but all I want, all I really really want for Christmas is to be healthy and happy. Yes, that's all I want. How about you?

Let me end this post with the newly released music video of Mariah Carey and Justin Bieber singing Mariah's Christmas song of the decade - All I Want For Christmas Is You! Enjoy!

Christmas Time Is In The Air Again

It's that time of the year again.

Can you smell it? Feel it? Taste it?

Yes! I am talking about the most wonderful time of the year - Christmas time.

And Christmas is coming early to my blog this year. Can you see the snow falling? Well, actually it's not really early. Today is exactly one month before Christmas Day. Since we can't have snow falling in Malaysia, then the least I can do is have snow falling in my blog! Haha!

The shopping malls around PJ and KL have started putting up Christmas decorations, although they were quite slow. I heard from my Filipino friends that the malls in Philippines were already playing Christmas songs as early as October! Wow!

Anyway, there is nothing that can put me into Christmas mood more than Christmas songs. So today I would like to share with you this wonderful, soulful, slightly jazzy song written and sung by my favourite singer, Mariah Carey. It's called Christmas Time Is In The Air Again.

This Christmas song, taken from Mariah's 2010 Merry Christmas II You album sounds like a classic to me (I almost can't believe she wrote this!) and evokes images of snowflakes, reindeers, christmas trees, snowman, and everything Christmas! Enjoy!

Note: The recording is not very good - you might want to turn up the volume a little.



Christmas time is in the air again
Christmas chimes reminding me of
When we fell like the snow
So deep in love
High above us the evergreens
Sparkle with lights and feel the breeze
As we made future Christmas memories.

Christmas shoppers glance at us and smile
'Cause the mistletoe is occupied
And the dream is to share
This Christmas cheer with you all year
And not wait till the morning
When Christmas time is in the air again.

Mr. Grinch simply can't resist
Warming up when he looks our way
Even Old Scrooge makes a Christmas wish
For a honey to hold Christmas day
And to feel love like ours always
La da da, da da dum

And the dream is to share
This Christmas cheer
With you all throughout the year
And not wait till the morning
When Christmas time is in the air
Christmas time is everywhere
Christmas time is in the air again.

FIRST COMMENTER

Merry Christmas 2010

Merry Christmas everyone!



I know it's a bit late to wish you all but hey, it's still Christmas week! I am still feeling the Christmassy mood and I know it will not go away till we sing Auld Lang Syne on New Year's Eve!

So how's your Christmas, folks? Mine had been a blast! With visits after visits to friends' open houses, I am pretty certain I have put on at least 2 kilos! No prizes for guessing what's one of my new year's resolution which is of course, to lose all those fat! Haha!

For those of you who celebrate Christmas, what is your favourite food during this festive season? For me, I must have roast turkey served with cranberry sauce! Not exactly my favourite (I prefer chicken and duck meat actually) but it's a must have for me or else I won't feel it's Christmas!

Besides the roast turkey, it's good to have some pasta, salad, mashed potatoes, lasagne, pies and fried chicken to go with it. Oh, not forgetting of course sweet stuffs like fruitcake, stollen, gingerbread, sugar cookies and maybe a nice chocolate cake! And yes, it doesn't hurt to have a little bit of red wine to complete the whole meal perfectly!

Anyway, besides food, what really gives me that Christmassy feeling is the Christmas songs! I never ever get bored with Christmas music because I only listen to them for one full month once a year!

Currently on heavy rotation on my CD player and iPhone is Mariah Carey's latest Christmas album! I reviewed about this album in a previous post. (Read HERE).

I simply love Christmas and I hope it will stay on forever and ever! But I know that will never happen, so before the Christmas season is over, let me share with you this beautiful song "One Child" written by Mariah Carey, who performed it live in Washington in front of President Obama and his family. Enjoy!!



An angel appeared
Of the highest One
And Mary believed
The word she received
Of God’s only son
The Virgin rejoiced
Gave thanks to the Lord
And as Joseph dreamt
The angel was sent
With tidings of peace and joy
Of the blessed baby boy

They traveled for miles
To reach Bethlehem
Yet when they arrived
No one could provide
A place at the inn for them
But God kept them safe
From hurt, harm and danger
In His warm embrace
Away in a manger
Waiting for Jesus’ birth
To glorify the Earth

Then He came
One child can change the world
Christmas Morn’
The King of all kings was born
He reigns forevermore
Let us worship and adore
Christ the Lord

Wondrous star
Led shepherds and wise men
Through valleys and mountains
Angels surrounded them
As they traveled far
As Heaven and Home
Rang out for the Savior
The sweet Prince of peace
Lay majestically
Asleep glorious and pure
And His mercy endures for always

One child can change the world
Christmas Morn’
The King of all kings was born
He reigns forevermore
Let us worship and adore
Christ the Lord

One child can change the world
On Christmas Morn’
The King of all kings was born
He reigns forevermore
Let us worship him
Let us worship him
Let us worship
Christ the Lord
This angel appeared
The angel appeared
Christ the Lord
On Christmas Morn’

FIRST COMMENTER

Merry Christmas II You

It's that time of the year again. Yes, I am talking about Christmas!

Are you feeling Christmassy right now? If you aren't, let me recommend you something that will straight away put you in the Christmas mood.

Last week, I bought this Christmas CD and I have been listening to it ever since. Yes, I am talking about Mariah Carey's latest and newest Christmas album, Merry Christmas II You!

I absolutely love this CD! It is undeniably, a classy and cool album totally suited for the holiday season! Believe it or not, I love every single song on this album! But of course, knowing that I am a big fan of Mariah, you may think I am biased, right?

Well, you can now judge for yourself! I have put up snippets of each song from the album in this post today for your listening pleasure!

The first track is a short 23-second orchestral intro of Santa Claus Is Coming To Town without any singing from Mariah so I shall skip that. The intro however leads nicely to the very first single from the album titled Oh Santa!



Oh Santa! is catchy, sweet, endearing and playful all at the same time! It surely brings back the Christmas cheer in a delightful way! Listening to this just makes me want to dance! Not surprisingly, it debuted at No.1 on Billboard's Holiday Digital Songs Chart and amazingly went from No.12 right up to No.1 in just its second week on Billboard's Adult Contemporary Chart!

Due to some technical problems, I was not able to put up snippets of certain songs like this third track, O Little Town Of Bethlehem/Little Drummer Boy so you may want to listen from YouTube HERE. Listen to how she sang "ra pa pum pum" on the 1.45th minute. Lovely! She sang the whole song with such grace and warmth and with just the right amount of vocal acrobatics which she's known for!

Christmas Time Is In The Air Again is absolutely one of my most favourite songs on the album. It is an original song written by Mariah herself and I find it exceptionally classy, romantic and elegant - enough to stir that emotions inside me. This song definitely showcases Mariah's songwriting skill! Of course, award winning Marc Shaiman's orchestration contributed a lot to the magical feeling of this song!



The First Noel/Born Is The King is a nice medley to listen to, with Mariah belting out the word "Noel" in her signature melismatic way. I love it! Listen HERE.

When Christmas Comes is another original song written by Mariah. My, she's such a fantastic songwriter! This jazzy song reminds me of her Emancipation Of Mimi album and I just can't stop listening to it!



Here Comes Santa Claus is a classic which is made to sound modern, trendy and with all the right hooks! I really, really adore Mariah's version of Here Comes Santa Claus!! The song is infectious! You must listen to this HERE!

Honestly, I have never heard of Charlie Brown Christmas before but it sounds good to me! Well, at least it makes me feel Chrismassy!



O Come All Ye Faithful is one song you must listen as we are introduced to the operatic voice of Patricia, Mariah's mother! Yes, listen to this powerful duet of mother and daughter, the former singing in operatic style and the latter in pop and R&B ! Simply mesmerizing! Watch the video below.



The 10th track on the album, O Holy Night is a recorded live performance of the same title taken from Mariah's previous Christmas album. As such, I have decided not to put up a snippet of the track here. Of course, this song remains one of my favourites on the older Merry Christmas album.

One Child is one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard! Written by Mariah Carey, this is another showcase of her songwriting talents! It's truly amazing how she could come out with such beautiful melody and chords to match! Mariah did not do much vocal acrobatics here although I wished she did! But I have to say, the children choir is amazing and I am glad Mariah did not let her vocals overpower them.



All I Want For Christmas Is You needs no introduction. To date, it is already the world's most successful and best selling Christmas song. Every year since its release in 1994, this song is a chart-topper during the Christmas season. Mariah had just made this song "extra festive" for this album and if you want to know the difference between this one and the older version, check out the song!



Lastly, we have the traditional Auld Lang Syne - the New Year's anthem. A fitting end to a perfectly enjoyable album, it started with strong vocals from Mariah and then followed by a countdown which very cleverly turns this song into dance music! Totally a great song to start the new year!



I am really, really impressed with this album. This is exactly the type of Christmas music that I like! I was so used to her new hip hop style since The Emancipation Of Mimi that I was quite surprised that this Christmas album had very little of that but instead reminds me of Mariah of the 90's.

With lots of lush string orchestration and soaring vocals, Merry Christmas II You is indeed my favourite Christmas album of the year and perhaps for many years to come!

FIRST COMMENTER

Random Notes 16

1. I have not been coming out with a new post since last Thursday. Some of you may be wondering what happened to me. Nothing really, I was simply too busy and then when I was about to write a new post, I fell sick!

2. I had fever with abdominal discomfort, headaches and nausea. I hate being sick!

3. During my sickness, I slept most of the time. Yes, I think in the last two days, I have replaced all my sleep debts over the months. Haha!!

4. But during those time that I was awake, I spent it catching up on my storybooks, and watching TVB dramas. Currently I am watching No Regrets. Have you watched this series? It is really an exciting and engrossing drama!

5. I ate Jacobs biscuits and drank Milo for lunch and dinner for the past two days. They were the only things I could eat without throwing up!


Picture taken with my iPhone

6. I have been listening to Mariah Carey's new Christmas album called "Merry Christmas II You" since last week. It is an incredible album! I love all the songs in it! If you like Mariah Carey of the 90's when she belted out power ballads, then you will like this album! It's full of lush string orchestration that really evokes the Christmas mood in me!

7. Which is your favourite Malaysian radio station? I normally listen to Fly FM. I love their selection of songs and the funny DJs.

8. I visited the newly refurbished McDonalds outlet at Bandar Utama next to Centrepoint last week. At first, I thought they were going to build a third storey but I was wrong. It is still a 2-storey building, but with more trendy designs.



9. I wonder why McDonalds had these stools without the back rest. Perhaps they don't want people to sit all day in the restaurant?



10. I know some of you are waiting for my Contest results. OK, I already have the winners with me. Will reveal it in the next post soon! : )

FIRST COMMENTER

We Be Long Together!

Oh My God!!! I could not stop laughing when I saw this YouTube video!

It's a Korean guy singing Song Of The Decade (2000 - 2009) - Mariah Carey's "We Belong Together". And someone put this up and include the lyrics, which was what he think he heard from the guy's singing.

Totally hilarious!



Now compare that to Mariah Carey's original lyrics!!



Talking about this song, it is my favourite song of all time! Totally love the tune and the rhythm!

It's just too funny that the Korean guy turned "We Belong Together" into "We Be Long Together!" Haha!!

FIRST COMMENTER

100 Percent

Mariah Carey did it again!

I am not sure if this will be her next big hit, but I just love this song! It's called "100 Percent".

This song was supposed to be included in her latest album "Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel" but it was taken out probably due to the song not fitting into the theme of the album.

The song was then supposed to be used for the highly acclaimed movie "Precious" where Mariah was finally praised for her acting ability. But the director did not want the audiences to be reminded of Mariah as the singer, so her song was not included. Instead it was replaced with a song sung by Mary J. Blige.

Unperturbed, Mariah had said that she's going to use this song for "something really good" so finally, here we are - this is going to be the song for 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver! Hooray!!

Written by Mariah Carey and Jermaine Dupri, "100 Percent" is a totally inspiring song. A song for dreamers and champions in the making. In other words, my kind of song!

And I'm going to dedicate this song to none other than my friend QuaChee, who is an inspiring dreamer himself! I'm also dedicating this song to all of you who are currently struggling to make it big, to achieve your dreams.

Watch this live footage video taken from Mariah's recent "Angels Advocate" Tour in Toronto, Canada. Enjoy!!



I am a dream, just beginning
Truth is I prayed when you'd open my eyes,
And you reveal, something to me,
Suddenly, I am no longer confined!

My life ain’t defined by limits
I don’t need no permission to live it
I’m a break through the door til I get in
Everything that I got I’m a give it
100 Percent and I ain’t stopping til I reach the finish

I’m a believer, not just a dreamer
I’m givin everything I got
I’m a go-getter
100 Percenter
Undoubtedly I can reach the top and I ain’t gonna let nothing discourage or dissuade me
Coz I’m walking out of here a champion either way babe
I am givin 100 Percent
So go on put your ones up

If you’re putting in a hundred put your ones up, ones up
If you know that this is something, put your ones up, ones up
If you really comprehend this feel, your ones up, your ones up
If you’re walking into victory keep on shining
One hundred percent

You can only do it if you do it like I did
Cause suffering ain’t easy
But if you can turn your wounds into living proof that you’ve survived the fight
And you're no longer defined

My life ain’t defined by limits
I don’t need no permission to live it
I’m a break through the door til I get in
Everything that I got I’m a give it
100 Percent and I ain’t stopping til I reach the finish

I’m a believer, not just a dreamer
I’m givin everything I got
I’m a go-getter
100 Percenter
Undoubtedly I can reach the top and I ain’t gonna let nothing discourage or dissuade me
(Nothing can discourage me)
Coz I’m walking out of here a champion either way babe
I am givin 100 Percent
So go on put your ones up

If you’re putting in a hundred put your ones up, ones up (Put your ones up)
If you know that this is something, put your ones up, ones up (Everybody)
If you really comprehend this feel, your ones up, your ones up (Put your ones up)
If you’re walking into victory keep on shining (One hundred)
One hundred percent

Don’t you ever be discouraged, let nobody take your courage
If you gonna pray don’t worry,
If ya gonna wait don’t pray
You just keep the faith and listen to me

If you’re putting in a hundred put your ones up, ones up (Put your ones up)
If you know that this is something, put your ones up, ones up (If you know you were)
If you really comprehend this feel, your ones up, your ones up (If you ever hear something)
If you’re walking into victory keep on shining
One hundred percent

I’m a believer, not just a dreamer
I’m givin everything I got
I’m a go getter
100 Percenter
Undoubtedly I can reach the top and I ain’t gonna let nothing discourage or dissuade me
(Percent I will share with you)
Coz I’m walking out of here a champion either way babe (Either way)
I am gotta givin 100 Percent
So go on put your ones up

If you’re putting in a hundred put your ones up, ones up
If you know that this is something, put your ones up, ones up
If you really comprehend this feel, your ones up, your ones up
If you’re walking into victory keep on shining
One hundred percent!

FIRST COMMENTER

Miss You Most At Christmas Time

It's that time of the year again! Yes, I'm talking about the Christmas season!

Walking in a shopping mall yesterday, I was suddenly hit with this song playing in the background. I recognised it almost instantly as it is one of my favourite Christmas songs of all time!

The song, which was a little sad for such a festive season, nevertheless got me into the Christmassy mood.

And as I listened to the beautiful voice of my idol Mariah Carey singing those sad lyrics, I could not help but be transported into a world of white Christmas complete with images of snowflakes and Santa Claus and silver bells and the feeling of warmness of the fireplace and sound of carolers singing in the distance.

So for today, despite it being a Monday and most of you are probably suffering from Monday blues, I would like to share this song with all of you.

This song is called "Miss You Most At Christmas Time" and is probably the kind of song all ex-Mariah fans would want her to sing nowadays! Enjoy....



The fire is burning
The room's all aglow
Outside the December wind blows
Away in the distance the carolers sing in the snow
Everybody's laughing
The world is celebrating
And everyone's so happy
Except for me tonight

Because I miss you
Most at Christmas time
And I can't get you
Get you off my mind
Every other season comes along
And I'm all right
But then I miss you, most at Christmas time

I gaze out the window
This cold winter's night
At all of the twinkling lights
Alone in the darkness
Remembering when you were mine
Everybody's smiling
The whole world is rejoicing
And everyone's embracing
Except for you and I

Baby I miss you
Most at Christmas time
And I can't get you
Get you off my mind
Every other season comes along
And I'm all right
But then I miss you, most at Christmas time

In the springtime those memories start to fade
With the April rain
Through the summer days
Till autumn's leaves are gone
I get by without you
Till the snow begins to fall

And then I miss you
Most at Christmas time
And I can't get you
Get you off my mind
Every other season comes along
And I'm all right...
But then I miss you, most at Christmas time

So who do you miss most at Christmas time?

FIRST COMMENTER

Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel

No, I am not an angel. And no, I am not writing memoirs about my life.

If you don't know already, Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel is the name of superstar singer Mariah Carey's latest album.

As you have most probably guessed by now, I have bought her album and listened to it for many rounds already. So want to know what I think of it?

OK, so here's my take on Mariah's newest album. Well, that is, if you don't mind reading a review written by one of her huge fans! Just keep in mind that I'm a little biased, but I will try my best to give a fair review. Haha!

I will review every single track on the album and rate it from 1 to 5 stars, where the ratings go like this.

1 star - the song sucks!
2 stars - not really good, but passable.
3 stars - quite good, but won't make it to No.1 on the charts.
4 stars - great song - love it!
5 stars - Wow! A potential chart topper!

And I have included a 30 seconds sample of each tracks for your listening pleasure. However, be warned! This album is unlike Mariah's past albums and there is no single track that I like on my first listen! Yes, incredible that I would say this, being a huge fan of her, but it's true.

Most of the songs in this album require repeated listening because they will sort of 'grow' on you.

On my first listen, I find them a bit monotonous, bland and even boring! The songs all sound pretty much alike! Suffice to say I was disappointed.

On my second listen, the slow songs started to depress me a little. I needed more energy, more vibes!

But on my third listen, the charm started to work its magic. I suddenly found I love almost all the songs very much and once I started listening intently to the lyrics, I was hooked! Few albums ever had this kind of effect on me, and I am glad this one did!

So do not judge these songs too quickly by merely listening to these 30 seconds tracks.


Memoirs of an imperfect Angel

1. Betcha Gon' Know (The Prologue)

This song is about catching your lover cheating on you and the hurt and vengeance that ensues. It is beautifully sung, with much emotion and breathtaking intensity. I love Mariah's voice on the chorus part! Absolutely a delight to listen to. In fact, I would even say this is a very classy, slow jam!

It is interesting that this song mentioned a little bit about Oprah Winfrey and Barbara Walters and how Mariah will "laugh right in your face" if you cheat on her.

This song definitely sets the tone for the rest of the album!

My Ratings : 4.5 stars

2. Obsessed

Before the song starts, Mariah said these words "I was like, why are you so obsessed with me?"

Now we would never be sure if she was referring to notorious rapper Eminem, as she kept denying it. Don't know anything about the Mariah vs Eminem feud? Read here.

But of course, both Mariah and Eminem took full advantage of this opportunity using social media and all the publicity generated to elevate their songs to the top of the charts!

In any case, I love this song! It's very radio friendly, with a catchy hook and chorus that can be sung to anyone whom you think is delusional or crazy. Haha!

And I just love the witty lyrics! Man, I think Mariah is getting better and better at writing sharp, put-you-down lyrics! Consider this...

"You a mom and pop, I'm a corporation.
I'm the press conference, you a conversation."

If those words are aimed at Eminem, I would say, OUCH! Of course, Eminem responded with another song but I will leave that for another post : )

By the way, this song made it to the top of the charts on Malaysia's Fly FM. Yeah! You can continue to vote for this song on Mix FM and Fly FM.

My Ratings : 4.5 stars

3. H.A.T.E.U

This song, which is a tribute to Minnie Riperton, is about a lover's lament (not necessarily Mariah) over the untimely end of her romance. Although the title seems to say "I hate you!" but in actual fact it stands for 'Having A Typical Emotional Upset'.

It's a beautiful heartbreak ballad filled with lush harmonies. Mariah seems to be singing a recurring melody in the upper registers not unlike in the style of Minnie Riperton. Ironically, this song is called "Hate U" while Riperton's famous song is titled "Loving U".

Not only that, Riperton's album is called "Perfect Angel". And this album is titled "Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel". No coincidence there - I believe Mariah is a fan of Minnie Riperton!

I actually did not like this song on the first listen, but it seems to 'grow' on me. Surprisingly, most Mariah's fans love this song a lot!

My Ratings : 3.5 stars

4. Candy Bling

This song is all about reminiscing past love, mainly teenage love. Reminds me of the song "Underneath The Stars" from her Daydream album.

Not exactly my favourite, although again I didn't like it on my first listen, but it gradually grew on me. I guess maybe Mariah used too much whispery vocals throughout the song and it wasn't until towards the end that she let her voice go. Now that's the best part of the entire song!

My Ratings : 3 stars

5. Ribbon

I can't tell you how much I love this song! It just gets better and better with each listen! Currently, it's my most favourite song on the album although that might change later on.

I like the syncopated rhythm when she sings "Wrapped up, packed up, ribbon with a bow on it." I love how she adds in those counter melodies - she's just so damn talented!

Definitely a very radio friendly song with all the right hooks and a potential chart topper if released as a single.

My Ratings : 5 stars

6. Inseparable

Another song which took me some time to like. It uses a small sample from Cyndi Lauper's song "Time After Time".

I like Mariah's voice when she sings the second verse "Got photos of us on my refrigerator...". Nice song, but unlikely to be a chart topper.

My Ratings : 3 stars

7. Standing O

This is a stand out, foot thumping anthem with a tinge of raggae. Mariah is lashing out at her ex-lover and sarcastically salutes him by giving him a standing ovation.

I like this song on my second listen, probably due to its very infectious and addictive chorus. As usual, Mariah is brilliant in her counter melodies - just listen how she adds in those melodies while the infectious chorus is going on.

Oh, one interesting part in the lyrics is where she sings "As you embrace her in your arms, give her 'my all', give her more than you gave me." Incidentally, "My All" is a hit song from Mariah's Butterfly album, and also one of my favourite songs of hers! I guess only a fan like me will be able to spot this! Haha!

My Ratings : 4.5 stars

8. It's A Wrap

This one also took me some time to appreciate. But once I like it, there is no turning back! On this song, Mariah sounds refreshingly raw with no soft whispery vocals. Instead she showcases her strong vocals throughout which is a delight to listen to.

I even dare say this song may join Mariah's classics like "Vision Of Love" and "Always Be My Baby". What makes this song a good listen is Carey's multi-tracked voices that seem to flow around her lead vocal and all with minimal instrumentation - just perfect!

My Ratings : 4.5 stars

9. Up Out My Face

This is another song where Mariah lashes out at her ex-lover although she is also doing it in a most humorous way! It's actually humourous bordering on craziness! Don't believe me? Here's the ridiculously funny line from the song...

"If we were two Lego blocks, even the Harvard University Graduating Class of 2010 couldn't put us back together again!"

It must be a mouthful singing that, but Mariah sang it effortlessly!

I wonder if she's dissing Eminem again when she sings "You ain't a rapper, so you need to stop spitting it..." Haha!

I absolutely love this thumping club jam of a song. It's definitely hip-hop Mariah with an attitude! And minus the rappers, which I am glad as she does not need rappers to spice up this song! A potential chart topper IMHO.

My Ratings : 5 stars

10. Up Out My Face (The Reprise)

I could not believe my ears when I hear this track! It's the reprise of the previous song but using the big sounding marching brass band! How creative and clever! Totally unexpected and delightful at the same time!

It's tracks like this that makes me think that Mariah is a comedian or a joker!

My Ratings : 4.5 stars

11. More Than Just Friends

In this song, Mariah drops big brand names like our very own Jimmy Choo! Wow! This is not the first time Mariah mention famous brand names - she did it in the song "Shake It Off", from her Emancipation Of Mimi album, touching on Louis Vuitton.

This song is kind of fun and hilarious to me. Even Mariah pokes fun of herself and does not take herself too seriously when she sings this!

"I wanna be all on your lips like gelato,
Permanently paint me in your picture like Piccasso,
Love me down till I hit the top of my soprano. "

I like that they rhyme. Haha! This song seems to get better with each listening and now I'm thoroughly enjoying it!

My Ratings : 4.5 stars

12. The Impossible

According to Mariah, this song is dedicated to her husband Nick Cannon. There's a small sample from the R&B group Jodeci's song, "Forever My Lady" used here.

I did not really like this song on my first listen. I thought it sounded boring and monotonous. After some time, I like it more but it is still not a huge favourite of mine. Mariah seems to like this song though. Maybe because it is dedicated to her husband?

However, I like how she ends the song with "I almost given up, the impossible!" Nice touch!

My Ratings : 3 stars

13. The Impossible (The Reprise)

I don't quite like this filler, she should have cut this track out!

My Ratings : 2 stars

14. Angel (The Prelude)

I also don't quite like this prelude as it's mostly Mariah using her whistle voice ending up like some kind of otherworldly (or maybe angelic?) shrill. In my opinion, deleting this and the previous track will make the album shorter and tighter.

My Ratings : 2 stars

15. Angels Cry

This one should immediately appeal to those who like her ballads. But, surprisingly I found it to be just OK. Certainly not as good as her older ballads eg. "Butterfly", "My All", "Lead The Way".

And she is wrong about lightning not striking the same place twice as mentioned in the lyrics! We all know that lightning does indeed strike the same place twice!

Still, it is not too bad and the lyrics is actually quite meaningful. And I like it when she hold onto the long note at the end!

My Ratings : 3 stars

16. Languishing (The Interlude)

This song reminds me of the song "Looking In" from her Daydream album and "Rainbow Interlude" from her Rainbow album.

A nice and enjoyable song which blends very seamlessly into the next track "I Want To Know What Love Is".

My Ratings : 4 stars

17. I Want To Know What Love Is

Already released as a single but didn't do too well on the charts, this is a remake of the Foreigner's hit of the same name. When I first listened to this, I was not very impressed with it. Maybe wrong choice of song? Ooh, I am talking like one of those judges from American Idol now. Haha!

But after listening a few times, I am beginning to like it more. Especially when the gospel choir joins in and Mariah sings in her signature glass shattering high vocals, which I love!

By the way, if you are a fan, help this song reach No. 1 on Mix FM by voting here. Thanks!

My Ratings : 3.5 stars

Tracks 18 - 21 are remixes of the song "Obsessed", so I shall not review on those.

Overall, this album has a very cohesive structure. The songs are all interconnected through the lyrics as if each song is treated like an entry in a diary. As such, this album will not be able to produce really good hit singles. To me, that's a risk Mariah has to face for now the trend is on single sales and not so much on album sales.

I don't think this album will do that well commercially, but perhaps Mariah has reached the stage in her career where she does not really bother too much about sales or getting her songs to No.1 on the charts anymore!

Mariah also played it low key this time without resorting to over the top vocal acrobatics. But she did it with lots of class and style, elevating the sensual slow jams to an art form here. I really think she deserves a Grammy for this effort!

To fans who like her inspirational ballads, they may be disappointed with this album, but for me, it's a great and exceptional album, one which deserves to be in my collection and which I shall be listening to for many weeks to come.

So here's my ratings for this album and all her previous albums that I have in my collection!

Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel (2009) - 4 stars
E = MC2 (2008) - 4.5 stars
The Emancipation Of Mimi (2005) - 4.5 stars
Charmbracelet (2002) - 3 stars
Glitter (2001) - 3.5 stars
Rainbow (1999) - 4 stars
No.1s (1998) - 5 stars
Butterfly (1997) - 4.5 stars
Daydream (1995) - 5 stars
Merry Christmas (1994) - 4.5 stars
Music Box (1993) - 4.5 stars

FIRST COMMENTER

Help! I'm Obsessed With Digi And Mariah Carey!

Hi everyone! My laptop is still in the HP Intensive Care Unit. Looks like the H1N1 really did it this time! Luckily, I have saved most of my files earlier so I'm pretty sure I will not be losing any important data.

Since I am using someone else's computer, I will have to keep my post short. Well, a short post is better than no post, right?

I have two things I would like to mention today. First, do you all know about the free unlimited downloading of music at Digi website?

You can download some of the latest chart toppers to your handphone or computer at zero cost! This is valid for first 30 days, after which you need to pay just RM5 per month. You can also stop subscribing at any time by sending an sms to Digi. Is that cool or what?

Sounds too good to be true right, so is there a catch? Of course! You need to sign up with Digi to enjoy this free unlimited downloading of songs!

I just had a great time downloading all my latest favourite songs from Lady Gaga to Eminem to Colbie Caillat to Mariah Carey to Akon to Rihanna to Daughtry to Beyonce to The Script to ... oh, just about every artists you know!

Thank you, Digi! Now did you hear that Digi is named Malaysia's most admired company for innovation by Wall Street Journal Asia for the third year running? I cannot agree more.

So quick! If you are not with Digi, switch over now!!

OK, the second thing is you all know I am a huge fan of Mariah Carey right? Her latest single, "Obsessed" is unfortunately not climbing up the charts. OK, I admit it's not a terribly good song, but if you give it a chance, and listen to it long enough, you might just find yourself liking it. It has a number of good hooks that I like.

By the way, "Obsessed" is her way of getting back at Eminem for dissing her and her husband in his song "Bagpipes From Baghdad" so you may want to listen to the lyrics from both Mariah and Eminem's songs carefully.

So since I'm so depressed with my laptop still in the Intensive Care Unit in HP Hospital, can you help cheer me up? It's very easy to cheer me up, you know.

Here's how. Just go to MixFM and vote for Mariah Carey's latest song "Obsessed". Click on the vote button and you are done! Won't take more than 10 seconds! Easy right?

Now while you are it, please don't start clicking on all the other songs please! I know, I know. You may prefer Colbie Caillat's "Falling For You" which is my favourite song too or Black Eyed Peas' "I Gotta Feeling" which is OK to me, but please don't do that yes?

I want Mariah Carey to end up at the top of the MixFM's chart for one thing, to help her promote the song and another, so that I can listen to it when I switch on my radio while driving! Haha! Thank you all for this favour!

Now you all know how Mariah's songs almost always end up No.1 on the charts! Haha! Just kidding! : )

My Top 5 Divas

I read about The 10 Finest Divas by Rob O'Conner recently and this inspired me to come up with my very own Top 5 Divas today.

These are the Top 10 Divas listed by Rob.

1. Diana Ross
2. Celine Dion
3. Mariah Carey
4. Christina Aguilera
5. Cher
6. Whitney Houston
7. Bette Midler
8. Macy Gray
9. Chaka Khan
10. Barbra Streisand

Do you agree with this list?

But before you agree or disagree, we have to agree on the definition of the word 'diva'.

According to wikipedia, diva is a celebrated female singer. But the Italian term is used to describe a woman of rare, outstanding talent in the world of opera and by extension, in theatre and popular music. However, the word diva is also closely related to the term prima donna, which is a title for leading female singer in an opera. Usually, these leading singers are arrogant and egotistical. In other words, diva is also associated with egotistical female singers who have big voices and unreasonable demands.

So your top 10 list would most probably depend on how you define the term 'diva'.

Well, for my post today, let's define divas as talented, female singers with big voices and are able to command the stage. We shall throw out all those egoistic, unreasonable characteristics, shall we?

So back to the list by Rob, I am quite surprised by his inclusion of Macy Gray. What the heck is she doing there? She's definitely no diva to me! And to be more diva-ish than Barbra Streisand and Chaka Khan? That must be a joke!

And where is Aretha Franklin? She is not in the Top 10? Impossible!

If you think Madonna should be in the list, well let me tell you she can't possibly qualify for her lack of musical talent and voice!

So, who are my Top 10 divas? Well, I think I'll just narrow it down to 5. But instead of just naming them, I shall tie them to the songs they sing.

Now, I have always loved good pop ballads with uplifting lyrics. Not just any pop ballads, mind you but those amazingly powerful ballads that makes your spirit soar and which are inspiring to the soul. Ballads that stir the emotion in you and touch you so deeply that it can even make you cry.

Most often than not, these powerful ballads are usually sung by female singers with powerful voices. These female singers are also usually known as divas.

This form of pop ballads were most popular during the 80's and 90's. Nowadays, you seldom get these kind of pop ballads anymore as it is no longer popular as evidenced by the lack of such music on top of the Billboard Chart.

Besides, not many singers are able to sing such songs as they require one to have exceptional vocal ability and power to execute them successfully.

Anyway, here are my top 5 power pop ballads (and coincidentally, also my 5 top divas!) which I like very much and will always love!

Note: As embedding the original YouTube videos of these songs had been disabled, I could not show them here. You can however click onto the links to watch the videos.



1. "Hero" sung by Mariah Carey

This will always be my No.1 most inspiring song of all time. The first time I heard this, I didn't think too much of it, until I listened carefully to its uplifting lyrics. Wow! Mariah not only wrote this from her heart, she sang from her heart too! This is the song that I play whenever I feel down because it really pulls you up.

I always feel inspired when she sings these words...

"So when you feel like hope is gone,
Look inside you and be strong,
And you'll finally see the truth,
That a hero lies in you...."

Mariah is a true diva - very talented in terms of songwriting and singing as most of her self penned songs/singles hit No.1 on the Billboard Chart.



2. "I Will Always Love You" sung by Whitney Houston

I have to say Whitney Houston is the greatest singer of all time and to date, I don't think anyone has beaten her yet in terms of vocal power. This song stayed on top of the Billboard Hot 100 for 14 weeks, a feat that was only surpassed by Mariah and Boyz II Men with their song "One Sweet Day" which stayed at No.1 for 16 weeks. Originally written and sang by Dolly Parton, this song was given the makeover by Whitney's powerful vocals!

Whitney is another true diva - the diva with the biggest voice!



3. "My Heart Will Go On" sung by Celine Dion

I have heard many singers sang this theme song from the movie "Titanic" but no one could sing it better than Celine Dion. Absolutely no one. You may have a powerful voice but that does not mean you can sing this song well as it requires some form of voice control and technique which only Celine could master. Although I am now pretty bored with this song having heard it endless times, I still rate this as one of the best ballad ever.

Celine is a diva in her own right - but a very "nice" diva that people love!



4. "The Voice Within" sung by Christina Aguilera

Christina is exceptionally good in vocal acrobatics and her voice is so powerful she can definitely give Mariah and Celine a run for their money! She sang this song beautifully. I love it!

I also find the lyrics very inspiring and somewhat similar to Mariah's "Hero".

"When there's no one else, look inside yourself,
Like your oldest friend just trust the voice within,
Then you'll find the strength that will guide your way,
You'll learn to begin to trust the voice within...."

Christina definitely deserves the title 'diva'!



5. "Footprints In The Sand" sung by Leona Lewis

This is a powerful song co-written by American Idol judge, Simon Cowell himself! Leona Lewis, a rising star after winning the X-Factor reality show in UK gave her all in this song. I'm really looking forward to her next album and I hope she will have more of such songs!

Although Leona is still new in the industry and cannot qualify as a diva just yet, but I think she is definitely a diva in the making!

How about you? What is your top 5 inspirational power ballads and your top 5 divas?

Note: I am taking a break from my Kinabalu Trip posts. Will resume with A Walk Along Gaya Street next!

FIRST COMMENTER

Quotes On Mariah Carey

In my last post, I talked about Mariah Carey, one of the most successful artistes of all time. She has been a source of inspiration to millions of people all over the world. People look up to her as the artiste to emulate, as was evidenced by hundreds of Mariah wannabees at the American Idols audition.


Photo of Mariah and American Idol contestants from Idol Stalker

Now, there are people who dislike her and her music. I am certainly NOT one of them. Well, I guess you can't please everybody.

But let's hear what some of the most famous singers, producers and songwriters have to say about Mariah.


David Morales' photo from DJAlexLee
"I've never seen Mariah be unkind to anyone. She's the best person I’ve worked with on remixes. She's the one that I’ve spent the most time with." - David Morales, DJ, remixer and producer.



Usher's photo from Idolator
"I've been working so hard, I'm about to have a Mariah Carey" - Usher



Janet Jackson's photo from The Age
"I have met her [Carey] before and she's really cool and so funny. Everyone has been given the wrong impression of her, and maybe it is her doing. But you have to remember that celebrities are always in the spotlight and are sometimes forced to conduct them selves in a different way than they normally do. That's how it is in the business. I have met artists who are real divas, but Mariah Carey is not one of them. She is a very sweet person, and what nobody sees off camera is the real person she is on the inside." - Janet Jackson



Shania Twain's photo from Living La Vida Boca
"Mariah is very grounded, a smart and level-headed person. I don't understand why people criticize her intelligence when she can do something as miraculous as recover from a physical and exhaustion breakdown, a record label buy-out, a film flop, and a soundtrack whose sales has proven to have received little to no recognition and absolutely no promotion. She can't be that simple if she can make a come back the way she did. She hasn't been given enough credit in my opinion. She has to be some sort of a genius actually just to have focused on becoming a stronger person and not letting people like the media destroy her completely. There are some people out there that can't handle the pressure of being a celebrity and the criticism and knowing that besides success there is always failure that you have to lean to recover from, and Mariah has proven to be the type of person who doesn't let anyone or anything break her down. She knows how to keep her life on track and if that isn't intelligence then I don't know what is." - Shania Twain



Ashanti's photo from Ms Ashanti
"I was definitely always a fan of hers. We're on the same record label, so that's how it (the tour) came about. I met her in Miami and she's really cool. She's so down to earth and funny, which I didn't expect." - Ashanti



Missy Elliot's photo from kalamu.com
"MC is a funny girl and always makes me laugh no matter what. I love her!" - Missy Elliot



Celine Dion's photo from Celine Dion website
"If Mariah was to ask me to duet with her, I will travel immediately 20,000 km in order to sing with her for sure!" - Celine Dion



Brandy's photo from dyfuse
"Mariah showered me with flowers for a week and sent me to her private jet plane to ride and flew with her to the Billboard Music Awards." - Brandy



David Fumero's photo from abc medianet
"Mariah Carey wasn't what I thought. I expected her to be arrogant, but she wasn't. She was really great, really normal." - David Fumero (the model Mariah worked with in the "Honey" video)



Jessica Simpson's photo from newsday.com
"Oh, my Gosh! Can you imagine they're comparing you to her...I mean she's the BIGGEST SELLING ARTIST of the DECADE, and I admire her too." - Jessica Simpson



Diane Warren's photo from Deseret News
"She works really hard. No matter what she's done, there's a hunger there. She doesn't have to prove herself, but she feels like she does." - Diane Warren, best selling songwriter



Brian McKnight's photo from daylife
"It's one of the best duets (Whenever You Call with Mariah) I've done. Mariah is such a sweet and nice, wonderful person. She's very talented woman." - Brian McKnight



Toni Braxton's photo from Christmas CD Collection
"I really admire Mariah Carey. I think she's underrated, because she's a great producer, a wonderful writer, and no one gives her props for that. They always say 'Oh look, did you see what she had on?' And this and that. I'm like she's 30 years old, she's not 70 with breast hanging like chickens. She's young, she's beautiful, she has a great body. I just think she's wonderful, and I think people beat her up a lil' too much." - Toni Braxton



Christina Aguilera's photo from The Scented Salamander
"I discovered Mariah in my room one day listening to the radio, and as soon as 'VOL' came on, I ran downstairs going, 'Mommy, Mommy' -- I just found the GREATEST person in the world! I just heard the GREATEST NEW VOICE!!!" - Christina Aguilera



Whitney Houston's photo from Live & Loud KL
"We've never met or talked before. It was our first time working together. In the studio, we were laughing a lot and talking in between a song, we had a great time together. She's a vivid minded girl, she's a smart lady. I really like Mariah." - Whitney Houston



David Foster's photo from canada.com
"Working with Mariah was an extraordinary opportunity for me. It goes without saying that she's one of the world's greatest singers, but it was her musicianship that stunned me. She thinks like a record producer and lays her vocals down like a virtuoso guitarist. Singer, Songwriter, Producer Mariah is a triple treat. Working with her was a wonderful experience from beginning to end." - David Foster, Grammy Award Winning producer



Beyonce's photo from myplay.com
"Mariah's voice comes from God" - Beyonce



Patti LaBelle's photo from BV Entertainment
"She has a great voice. I don't know, I love her talent. I like her...So I said, 'would you like to do a show with me?' Before i can finish she said YES" - Patti LaBelle



Chris O'Donnell's photo from Celebrity-Socialite
"She's one of those popstars that's bigger than life. I've never really had to do an interview with her and everything, but just a normal conversation. She's cool, she's my age. She's from Long Island, NY. I know some people she went to high school with. She's a HUGE STAR. She showed up with her lil' entourage. You know...It's Mariah Carey. It's not just some actress you brought in..." - Chris O'Donnell



Brett Ratner's photo from nymag.com
"She does everything: she writes, she produces. People think she writes those songs just to sell records, but those songs come right from her heart." - Brett Ratner, director of "Heartbreaker", "I Still Believe" and "Thank God I Found You" videos



Britney Spears' photo from Top Web Directory
"When I was little I love listening to Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Michael Jackson...Yeah, I've always loved Mariah Carey, I guess because she writes her music, most of her music, and because she comes up with the BEST melodies. Her range is just from here to there, and she's probably my role model." - Britney Spears



Babyface's photo from AskMen.com
"Mariah Carey - A great producer, a great writer, a superb artist, but most of all...a good friend" - Babyface