iPopCulture.NET

This post might offend some people. If it does, just try to hear me out before you get angry and vow to never read my blog again. I have this theory that there are a lot of things that are popular in this culture simply because we think we’re supposed to like those things. For instance, when I was in high school, some friends and I made up a fake band and started raving about them to some of our other friends. Within a short time, some of our oblivious friends were raving about how awesome that band was. They even claimed to have all their albums and songs. Unfortunately, that band was made up. They simply liked them because some of their friends did.

Just because something makes this list does not mean that you’re a poser and only like it because your friends do. In fact, most things in life are “liked” because of a chain reaction. I truly believe that there are genuine fans of these shows, movies, products, etc. The following list (in no particular order) contains things that I think our society has overrated, simply because people think they’re supposed to like those things.

1. Coldplay
And here come the hateful comments. I do think a lot of people like Coldplay for their music. However, I think a lot of people buy into Coldplay because “everyone” thinks Coldplay is “cool” and let’s face it, we all want to be cool.

2. Dane Cook
He’s not funny! But somewhere along the way, someone really popular said he liked Dane Cook. And the snowball effect has taken place.

3. Lost
Too soon? I will admit that I’m a fan of Lost. However, sometimes I think Lost gets overhyped because people think they are supposed to be obsessed with it. It’s a great show…but some go just a little bit overboard with it.

4. The New York Yankees
You either love them or hate them…and a lot of people that love them came to love them by jumping on the bandwagon. They’ve almost become more of a fashion accessory than a baseball team. If you see someone wearing a flat-billed cap turned sideways, chances are it’s a Yankees hat.

5. Avatar
It was in 3D. It featured blue people. But is it really a “great” movie? Is it Golden Globe worthy? Academy Award worthy? I think the media made a lot of us buy into this one.

6. Lady Gaga
People call her a freak, yet her music sells. Someone must be buying it. I guess she could be the very opposite of this last and everyone buying her music is a closet fan afraid to admit it.

7. The North Carolina Tar Heels
This one is tough to put on here because I’d like to think of myself as one of the biggest Tar Heel fans on the planet. (I even came home from the hospital wrapped in a Tar Heel blanket when I was born.) However, much like the Yankees, the Heels have become a bandwagon-ridden team. This is mostly in part to Michael Jordan. Nonetheless, there’s a lot of Heels fans out there who are Heels fans simply because they want to fit in with their peers and culture.

8. Kim Kardashian
I’m pretty sure she’s only popular for being popular. Yet Kim, as well as any other “reality-TV” celeb on the E! channel have become overnight sensations. Their shows and stories are pitiful, materialistic, and vain, yet their popular keeps growing. Do we really like this people, or do we simply like them because our friends like them?

9. Hot Wings
This probably applies to guys more than anyone. Wings are a “guy’s” food. And to be honest, they’re good. But there’s a level of pride in guys that says they have to eat the hottest wings possible to keep their standing as “one of the guys.” Anything mild makes them a wuss. So even though they’re mouth is on fire, they’ll swallow their pride (literally) and pretend like everything is fine.

10. Rap music
A lot of people truly enjoy rap music. But a lot of people only listen to it because their friends are listening to it. You know who I’m talking about too. They’re very easy to spot.

11. Alcohol
If none of your friends drank alcohol, would you? Even more, if all of your friends thought alcohol was disgusting and detestable, would you touch it? Probably not. You’d have no need to.

12. The Super Bowl
The Super Bowl is much more than a game these days. It’s 2 weeks of media coverage, and a 3 hour social gathering for most people. There’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, it’s fun for people to get together for the game, even if they care nothing about the game. But since a lot of people show interest in it just to blend in with the crowd, it makes this list.

13. MMA
UFC has a huge following, as well as the rest of MMA. It’s a sport that’s on the rise. But in a sport that’s becoming so popular, you know there has to be a large chunk of the audience that only watch because it’s the “cool” and “manly” thing to do. Also, wearing Tapout and Affliction t-shirts fits in here too.

14. Abercrombie & Fitch
Why do people buy overpriced clothing? Because they’re friends are buying overpriced clothing and because the media says that is what we need to wear to be cool.

15. Dave Matthews Band
See Coldplay

16. American Idol
For many of us, we watch because our friends and co-workers watch. After all, we don’t want to be left without a word during the talk around the water cooler.

17. Political Activism
Whether it’s a fight for social justice or politics, a lot of people take a side they know nothing about and march, protest, complain, etc because that’s what everyone else is doing. This really seems to spring up around election time. If you really want to see it in action, wait until October 2012. Whether people love Obama or hate Obama, they will be out in full force…with absolute ignorance as their guide. Any guesses on how many of those people actually read the newspaper or watch Fox News and/or CNN regularly?

18. President Barack Obama
I’m not bashing or endorsing the president here. However, in many circles, it’s fairly obvious that people make up their opinions about the president based on the opinions of their friends or others in their “social group.” Very few people actually know how to think politically for themselves. Instead, they either hate or love the president based on what they think they are supposed to do to be accepted in certain circles.

19. Twilight
Need I say more?

20. Michael Jackson
It’s sad that Michael Jackson died at an early age. It’s amazing how many people became fans after he died. Some people just couldn’t stand to fall behind a trend.

Thanks for those that contributed. I want to give you credit, but I don’t want to put your name down if you wished to remain anonymous. So, feel free to claim your submission. If there’s anything to add, feel free. If you disagree, I would love to hear about it.

I know this is probably 1 date late and now considered outdated, but sometimes it takes me a little longer to collect my thoughts than most people.

Sunday night was the Grammy Awards. It featured some of the biggest names in music (as well as many actors and actresses from CBS shows) presenting awards, receiving awards, and performing. Awards shows seem to bring out the best and worst in people. Also, they seem to tell us a lot about where our culture is and where it’s headed. No matter if it’s the Grammy’s or the MTV Music Awards, it seems like a lot is said on these star-studded nights.

Here are a few of my thoughts. If I offend you or your favorite artist, I apologize. I’m just speaking my mind:

- First of all, I was glad to see Taylor Swift win the biggest award for Album of the Year. Did she deserve it? Maybe. Maybe not. Did Kanye help her win it? Possibly. But nonetheless, I’m glad she won. Here’s why: the other nominees were Beyonce, the Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga, and the Dave Matthews Band. While Beyonce has a beautiful voice, she’s marketed through sex appeal. While the Black Eyed Peas create catchy songs that get stuck in your head, some of their lyrics are profane and just like Beyonce, Fergie is marketed through sex appeal. Then there’s Lady Gaga. Sex appeal? Maybe. Shock value? Absolutely! If she was still Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta would we even know who she is? Probably not. As for DMB, I’m not a fan, but I do respect their talent and think they were a worthy nominee. But shockingly, Taylor Swift, in all her youthful innocence, took home the award. You could tell she was sincerely shocked to win. At this point, I think she has been a better role model for young girls that most artists that were at the Grammy’s. Hopefully the wholesome image continues.

- The Michael Jackson Tribute confused me. I felt like I was watching a scene out of Avatar. I also felt like the vocalists were up there to worship Michael Jackson. For a tribute, I expected artists to cover some of his most famous songs. Instead, I heard a great vocal performance that centered on nature/MJ worship. As a kid, I was a big Michael Jackson fan. I still love his music. However, I feel there was a lot of hypocrisy at the Grammy’s. Many people talked about how Michael was supposed to be there, and Michael would be performing his song if he was still alive. I don’t believe that. Before MJ died, he was considered a freak. The music industry shunned him and so did most of the country. If he was alive today, I don’t believe he would have been invited to the Grammy’s even to sit in the audience. I believe he would have been shunned. However, now that he’s dead, the same people that cursed his name now praise him. Something about that doesn’t seem right to me.

- To Lil Wayne, Eminem, and Drake: If half of your performance has to be censored by CBS, what’s the point? The best part of your song was Travis Barker on the drums. Unfortunately, that had to be censored out too because of your language. Also, pull up your pants. And CBS, do you really want Lil Wayne performing on your show when he’s supposed to report to prison next week? Great message you’re sending.

- I don’t understand how the Silversun Pickups were nominated for Best New Artist. Their debut album landed in 2006 and their most famous song, “Lazy Eye,” has been around since 2007. Nothing new about that.

- The performances were hit or miss. In a world of mediocre studio-produced talent, Andrea Bocelli stands above all. Incredible! Like I said, I’m not a DMB fan, but that was an incredible performance as well. Loved the 30+ people on stage all playing different instruments. Great blend. Fun song. Sounded great. And while on the positive side, how bout Bon Jovi? Those guys are 75 years old (jk) and still rocking! I thought the entire set was great…especially the finisher with “Livin’ on a Prayer.” Great stuff! Unfortunately, the Taylor Swift/Stevie Nicks performance was really really rough. Yikes. And Pink’s performance…well…let’s just say it wasn’t family entertainment and maybe made CBS reconsider the TV-PG rating for next year.

- Thank you for changing the landscape of music Les Paul. A legend!

- I first started listening to Green Day when I was in 5th grade. Now I’m 25 and they’re still winning awards and reinventing themselves. Who would have thought a punk band would have such staying power? Do you remember when people accused them of selling out with “Good Riddance”? Now they’re the ones setting the standard.

- I’m really sick of the whole Lady Gaga charade. I really don’t care if she can sing or write. She’s trying too hard for attention, and unfortunately people are giving it to her. We may criticize her antics, but we still buy her music. We may think she’s a freak, but we can’t wait to see what she does next. We’ve essentially created the monster that is Lady Gaga.

- Is Katy Perry talented? I’m not so sure. When she was Katy Hudson, she couldn’t even make it in the Christian industry. However, she changed her name and wrote a song about kissing a girl and now everyone loves her? This confuses me. Just like Lady Gaga, I think fans flocked to her because of her shock value and not because of her talent. Now that she’s made a name for herself, unfortunately, I think her staying power and influence is here for awhile. It’s really sad when people have to become something they’re not to get recognized and noticed. Very few artists stay true to themselves today. They’re only allowed to stay true to their label. And the label seems to be pulling all the strings.

- Last thing…did you know they give away a Grammy for Best Album Notes?

-

Yesterday I gave my list for the Most Annoying Christmas Songs. Today I’m changing it up and looking on the bright side. This is a list I’ve complied of the Top 10 Greatest Modern Christmas Songs. By “modern,” I don’t mean they were written in the last 10 years, although some were. These are simply the greatest versions of Christmas songs that have been done in my lifetime. I wanted to make sure I didn’t repeat the same song twice. I tried not to repeat the same artist, with one exception. Hopefully you’ll understand why.

10. “Angels We Have Heard on High” -  The Brian Setzer Orchestra
This is mainly instrumental, but it’s a very fun song with great guitar playing by Brian Setzer. Other songs by the band that almost made the list: “Jingle Bells” and “Jingle Bell Rock.”

9. “When a Child Is Born”  – Il Divo
This quartet of guys probably has the best set of vocals in this entire list. Absolutely amazing and stunning, even if I can’t understand most of their music (They sing in 4 different languages if I’m not mistaken.) No surprise, but these guys are another Simon Cowell creation. Their version of “O Holy Night” is amazing as well.

8. “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” – Barenaked Ladies and Sarah McLachlan
A group of Canadian guys just had to pick that name for their band, didn’t they? Ugh. I learned a rough lesson many years ago: Never ask your grandparents for a “Barenaked Ladies” album for Christmas. They had a serious discussion with my parents. Anyway, with the added vocals of Sarah McLaughlan, this is a great version of the classic song. Simple music, but a song I love to hear during the Christmas season.

Check it out here: http://bit.ly/7hb0eL

7. “Stille Nacht (Silent Night)” – Mannheim Steamroller
Now that we’re in 2009, some of the music from Mannheim Steamroller sounds cheesy, like a Midi file from the days of Windows 95. However, this soft and soothing song is a classic. It’s a very relaxing version of “Silent Night.”

6. “The First Noel” – Josh Groban and Faith Hill
I could probably put every Christmas song by Josh Groban on this list. The man is amazing! This duet with Faith Hill is the best version of this song I’ve heard. Their voices sound so pure and even the high notes sound effortless.

Check it out here: http://bit.ly/6ni4rK

5. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey
Did this one catch you off guard? People may laugh, shake their heads, or roll their eyes, but let’s be honest, it’s a great song that most everyone recognizes. It’s been covered by John Mayer, Shania Twain, Miley Cyrus, and even My Chemical Romance. You may not like Mariah Carey, but this may turn out to be a classic Christmas song that has more staying power than Mariah.

Check it out here: http://bit.ly/4vhRqU

4. “Silver Bells” – Kenny G
Who would have thought a Jewish saxophone player would make the top 5 on a Christmas song list? Although he produces some really laughable songs, this is by far one of the greatest instrumental pieces of Christmas music. When I hear it, it immediately makes me feel like Christmas is coming soon. It also reminds me of the sax playing at the end of SNL during the mid 1990s, but that’s just random.

3. “Christmas Canon” – Trans-Siberian Orchestra
I’ve always been a huge fan of Pachelbel’s “Canon in D.” TSO took a wonderful classic from the 1600s and turned it into something incredible. Although this doesn’t contain their usual screeching guitar riffs, it does contain a choir that really helps bring the song to life. In 2004, the group added to the song with “Christmas Canon Rock.”

2. “O Holy Night” – David Phelps (Live)
This is my favorite Christmas song of all time. It seems like people either master it or butcher it; there’s no in between. After listening to many different versions and arrangements, I’m convinced this is the best version you can find. And to think this is Phelps doing this live…incredible! Also, don’t over look the incredible piano part by the late Anthony Burger.

1. “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24″ – Trans-Siberian Orchestra
As you probably already know, this is a medley of “Carol of the Bells” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.” As much as I didn’t want to repeat an artist, TSO deserves to be on this list twice. With this arrangement, Trans-Siberian Orchestra took classic Christmas songs and cranked up the amps to put Christmas right in your face. This is a song that’s still enjoyable in July. Whether you love the scaling guitars, the pounding piano, or the opening lines of the cello, this is a song that can be enjoyed by everyone…or almost everyone!

Honorable mentions:

“The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)”
“Ave Maria” – Placido Domingo and Michael Bolton [Beautiful song, but not a fan of the translated lyrics]
“I’ll Be Home for Christmas” – Michael Buble
“Believe” – Josh Groban

Did I miss any? Feel free to add to the list!

Tomorrow: Top 10 Classic Christmas Songs

We all have Christmas songs that just annoy the mess out of us. Here’s a list of 10 that I could do without. You may disagree with me, but oh well. It’s my list

10. “Deck the Halls”
It may be a classic, but have you ever looked at the words. I don’t understand what half the song means, and the other half is littered with “fa la la’s.” And I know the meaning of words change over the course of time, but I really don’t want to “don” my “gay apparel.”

9. “All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth”
The song sounds like the kid from Up recorded a Christmas album. This video shows how “goofy” the song actually is:

8. “I Saw Three Ships”
It sounds like an old Irish drinking song and repeats itself over and over and over and over. I’m not not even sure what the song is about, except there were 3 ships, and it was Christmas.

7. “Feliz Navidad”
When every English-only-speaking American knows every single word to the song, it’s time to invent something new. The song is catchy and fun around November 29. By December 24, it’s annoying. Maybe it’s time for us to learn new Spanish songs.

6. “Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer”
Have you read all the lyrics to the song? Grandma gets run over and killed and the family takes it just fine. No big deal. Apparently she was drinking too much egg nog, not taking her medication, and wandering around aimlessly. This song isn’t fun. It’s family neglect! Grandma is dead and no one cares! Very disturbing. Not to mention, it’s backwoods hillbilly music. Here’s a clip from the movie that was based off the song. Yikes!

5. “Baby It’s Cold Outside”
When I heard this song in Elf, I loved it. That was until I read the lyrics. This guy sounds like a total pervert who is bent on seducing the girl in any way possible. Don’t believe me? Check out the lyrics:

I really can’t stay – Baby it’s cold outside
I’ve got to go away – Baby it’s cold outside
This evening has been – Been hoping that you’d drop in
So very nice – I’ll hold your hands, they’re cold as ice
My mother will start to worry – Beautiful, what’s your hurry
My father will be pacing the floor – Listen to the fireplace roar
So really I’d better scurry – Beautiful, please don’t hurry
Well maybe just one drink more – Put some records on while I pour

The neighbors might think – Baby, it’s bad out there
Say, what’s in this drink – No cabs to be had out there

She’s trying to get away. He’s trying to get her to stay. And then comes the kicker: “Say, what’s in this drink?” Did he spike it? Sounds a little concerning to me! Here’s a video featuring Rainn Wilson with a funny take on the song:

4. “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus”
Even though the song is innocent, in the kid’s mind, he just saw his mom cheating on his dad with Santa. But no worries for the boy. Just plenty of laughs. Riiiiiight.

3. “Santa Baby”
When I hear this song, it makes me feel dirty. It seems like it turns Santa and Christmas into something sexual and deviant aka the opposite of what Christmas is about! And sorry…but NO video for this one.

2. “The Little Drummer Boy”
“Pa rum pum pum pum” are not real lyrics. They’re not even words. Well, “rum” is, but that clearly has nothing to do with the song. I don’t know why but this song has always annoyed me. Maybe because it takes a biblical story and adds a fictional character. Maybe because I’m never seen an ox and lamb keep time. Maybe because drums can’t be used in worship (kidding). I don’t know. Here’s a very awkward encounter between Bing Crosby and Davie Bowie:

1. “Christmas Shoes” by Newsong
This is difficult to put on here because I’ve met and talked with the band many times and they are incredible guys and incredible musicians. I love 99% of their music and their concerts are always great. However, this song makes me hate shoes. I’m not big on “feel good” and “make you cry” Christmas songs. Also, if Momma is about to die, shouldn’t the boy be at the hospital and not buying shoes? And doesn’t he know Momma can’t take those shoes to heaven with her? (I’m being ridiculous. Don’t hate me.) Actually hate me if you want, but when “Christmas Shoes” is being performed live in July, I have reason to make it #1 on my list.

There are many other songs that could have made the list, especially if I journeyed outside the realm of “classic” Christmas songs. Things like “Last Christmas” by Wham, “Do They Know It’s Christmas” by Band Aid, and “Please Daddy (Don’t Get Drunk This Christmas)” by John Denver could all make a list somewhere.

What Christmas songs do you find most annoying?

(P.S. The 10 greatest versions of Christmas songs coming tomorrow)

Today I turned 25 years old. Yep, I’m 1/4 of the way to the century mark. Today made me think of what some of my “favorites” have been in my life–my favorite songs, video games, TV shows, friends, subjects in school, etc. When I was a little kid (I use the term “little” loosely), my favorite show was Sesame Street. My earliest memory of Sesame Street is still one of my favorites. It was James Taylor singing “Jelly Man Kelly.” That happened in 1980…4 years before I was even born. 29 years later, I’m still a fan of James Taylor (and Sesame Street). It’s amazing how some things never change. Since today is my 25th birthday, and this year is Sesame Street’s 40th anniversary, I thought I’d share a little bit of my favorite moment:

This is awesome! And perfect relaxation music for a Friday. He was 10 years old when he did this.

Earlier today, I was doing some research on Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy) for an article I’m writing. Without a doubt, MacFarlane has a huge influence over teenagers and young adults. They got me thinking: Who are the most influential celebrities? In other words, what celebrities have the most input/influence over the development and shaping of our culture?

One publication named Zac Efron as the most influential celebrity. I tend to disagree.

Here are some people who I think make that list (in no particular order):

Seth MacFarlane
Beyonce
Lorne Michaels (SNL)
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie
Ashton Kutcher
J.J. Abrams
Stephenie Meyer
Barack Obama
Bono
Oprah
Simon Cowell
Jack Dorsey and Biz Stone (Twitter)
Tiger Woods
Miley Cyrus
Michael Jordan
Steve Jobs
Judd Apatow
Kanye West
Michael Jackson

If you think of more, please feel free to comment and add your own list. I’m very curious to see the results. I’m not instituting a “Vote for your Favorite Celebrity.” Instead, I want to see what factors make someone so influential. Is it talent, skill, ability, being in the right place at the right time, being born into wealth, etc?

I can’t get enough of this kid. Awesome!

“For the Moments I Feel Faint”- Relient K