Tuesday, August 31, 2010

I'm Trying Hard To Be Strong: How Long Can A Man Be Strong By Jeff Healy




If there's one thing that every man or even every woman wants to aspire to is to be strong. The stronger you are, the more obstacles and trials you will overcome. The problem is that once you overcome one trial, a more complex and troublesome one will appear. As hard as you try to be strong, it gets to a point where you find your back against the wall as your mental and emotional fortitude are put to the test. Even if you do come out on top, it still scars you deeply to the point of breaking down. Wondering what it takes to be strong reminds of Jeff Healy's song "How Long Can Man Be Strong".

Hard times are here and they are really bearing me down. I keep hearing my father's voice about being able to be strong cause times are going be tough and boy he was right. Right now I wish that everything that I'm working on would start to show results because if not, I'll be force to do things that will really take some mental and emotional toll on me. I'm the best that I can so that things can back to the way they were when times were good. I'm tired of helplessly watching things fall apart and I want to do something about it in my own way.

I know I'm not alone in this because my brothers are helping in this situation as well. If I'm having a hard time, they got it even harder because they got families to support. All the more the reason why I'm trying to be strong because I want to help them as well. I don't how long I can be strong but I know I must if I want to succeed. It's not just for me, but for them as well.

Monday, August 30, 2010




I Wish This Was Possible: Down So Long By Sting

Just when I thought things were about to lighten up, bad thing started happening again. Apart from doing my best to cope with the everyday craziness that’s been happening here, I get more bad news. Not only is it bad, it really breaks my heart cause I’m already stressed out emotionally, mentally and physically. It’s so frustrating because I’m starting to feel that no matter how I try to dig myself out of this hole, the more I get pushed back to the bottom. How I wish that I could just take all the crap and throw it away like that's been plaguing my life. The wish for some relief while wallowing down in the blues reminds me of the song "Been Down So Long" by Sting.

This is one of those songs you want to listen when things get too much and you just want to drown your miseries in hooch or any other just to chase the blues. Another thing I about this song is that apart from having a good combination of jazz and blues, it really expresses the frustration that one feels when there's just to much to bear. Every time I hear this song, I'm either half-way through a case of brews; taking comfort down south or having a walk with Johnnie with a big fat stoogie in my mouth. Even if I get a huge headache and have to face the crap again, sometimes you really a break to drown your frustrations. That just goes to show I feel when this song is playing.

How I wish that were possible. To just taking every problems and throw them out the window like the crap that it is. Sadly, it's never that easy and wishing to throw them away is just wishful thinking. I guess that means we have take the situation head on and wrestle with it until it's solve. If it were possible then I'd rush to the sea throw and throw it all out myself.

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Right Now I Wish All The Bad Would Disappear: Eagles Fly By Sammy Hagar




You know we're still coping with the loss of our father and things haven't been easy. As much as I don't want to take things for granted, there are times when it just overwhelms me. I've been thinking too much to the point that some people think I'm aloof, hence, resulting in further alienation. Life has been so dreary that sometimes something really good would happen to lift me up from this blue funk. The need to lift myself out of this depressing state can be expressed in Sammy Hagar's song "Eagles Fly".

Apart from the loss that we had to deal with, the fact that things haven't been well with me for the last 10 years has already starting to eat up at every single reserve of fortitude and patience that I have left. When people tell go off and have an adventure, how can I do that when I haven't figured out a way to solve the financial dilenma here, let my mother's sorrow which I share since my dad's passing. The fact that health problems are now taking a physical and emotional toll on her has sunk my spirits to an all new low. Right now, I'm either banging the desk while typing on my laptop trying hard not to give in to all this pressure even as I feel my chest starting tighten around me.

As much as I want to fly away to never land, I cannot abandon my responsibilities here. How I wish things would lighten up here if what I was doing would just bear some fruit. Till then, I have to deal with this cause it's the only thing that I can do and do it as best as I can. Hopefully the day will come when the sun appears and all the misery would vanish from this household. When that happen, then I could really fly like an eagle to a place where I can be at peace.

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Getting Wild On Saturdays: Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting By Elton Joh



As monotonous as it sounds, part of going down memory lane for me is always remembering the good old days when Friday struck and everyone jump for joy cause it was gimmick time. After a hard week of work or study, it was time pop up some ice cold brews and loosen up. However, it was just a warm up cause after Friday comes Saturday and that's where anything and everything goes. Once the party starts on a on Saturday Night, you can expect a rocking and wild night goes on till the early crack of dawn. Remembering that high point of gimmick days reminds me of the song "Saturday Night's All Right For Fighting" by Elton John.

Ah, the wild days where many often led to party and partied we did bringing the whole house down. What we did on a Friday was just for starters and besides back then we were younger and had more tolerance for the brew. On Saturday it was different as the night would go full swing and we wouldn't stop until someone passed out, hurled or both. It was just about having fun but determining who would go the distance and come out the last man standing. It would be bragging rights for the guy who did while the rest gets the ridicule.

Well those days are really long gone. We're not as strong with the brew as we use to be. When we do drink, it's all about relaxing than consuming. The humor and the camaraderie is still there though but it's less frequent due to other responsibilities are now the priority. Still, letting loose on Saturday night is a cool because it gives you a chance to throw all those bad vibes out the window. That's the reason why every generation believes that Saturday will always be all right.

Friday, August 27, 2010

The First Reality Show: Bad Boys By Inner Circle



Remember during the early 90's, one of my favorite shows was "Cops". It was not ica scripted television show or a documentary. Rather it shows the real cops doing their jobs which at times could be very dangerous. Sometimes all they do is just roam their beat till their shift is over or respond quickly when an emergency occurs in their area. You don't know what to expect because there are no scripts but one thing's for sure and that anything can happen once they go out and do their duty. The theme song of the show was taken from Inner Circle's song "Bad Boys".

When you watch the show, you what cops go through everyday. Sometimes it's just another day with no hassle which is good because nobody gets hurt. Other days, they have their hands full resolving conflicts which can still be settled amicably. There are days,however, when they must deal with violent situations and as much as they try to avoid it, someone still gets hurt. Through it all, these guys can't afford to keep their guard down because if they do, the consequences could be very severe.

I guess this show is a good reference to those who aspire to have a career in law enforcement. There's no fancy wise-mouth fashion hollywood actors here. Just guys who do their duty at the risk of their own lives. If you want to be in it just for the badge and uniform, better drop it cause you'll be doing more harm than good. This about serving and protecting people with your life and it's no joke. There are a lot a of bad boys out there and it takes a special breed of people to bring them down which is why the cops who appear in this show get my deepest respect.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

A Tragedy That Could Have Been Avoided: Invisible Sun By The Police


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The tragic ending to the hostage crisis in Manila sure casts a heavy shadow on the whole country. It's bad enough that we're trying to get out of the political and economic slump that's been hurting the country for so many years. What's worse is that so many innocent lives were lost and they only wanted to come and see what our country has to offer. Just when we'd hope things get would get better, it had just gotten worse instead. When of that hostage crisis and the lives lost in that incident and the effects that it had on all of us, the song "Invisible Sun" by The Police comes to mind.

Man, those people were here just here to have a good time and to have a mad man gun them down because he lost his job really infuriates me. I've had my share of tough times, I would never lash out at other people, let alone hurt them just because I had a bad day. Add to that the many mistakes that only contributed the pressure which caused the lives of innocent people has earned us another bad reputation. We've been holding rallies against other countries for so long, now we're getting getting our embassy's surrounded by demonstrators who stick tirades on our embassy seals. I guess it's our turn to feel the heat.

Right now, a lot of people are giving their insights on what happened and how it could have been avoided. Unfortunately, it'll never bring back the lives of those who were killed on that day. I do so hope that everyone learns from this tragedy so that it won't happen again. If it does, then it me that we didn't learn anything and it'll happen again. For me, that's another bad reminder that it's hopeless to even hope for change. I hate to think that things around here will be like this song about being an invisible sun where there hope is none.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Half-way Through The Week: Waiting On Wednesday By Lisa Loeb And Nine Stories




The next best day to Friday for me is Wednesday. The reason for this is because once it’s Wednesday, you get that feeling that half your work load has already been accomplished. The best part is that you get that feeling knowing that you’re half-way through the week and before you know it, it’s break time once more. It makes the last two days bearable knowing that you’re almost there. The feeling that I get when I’m half-way through the week reminds me of the song “Waiting On Wednesday” by Lisa Loeb And Nine Stories.

For all of us, starting the week takes a lot of effort as we call on all our effort to get the lead out of our system as we take the first step on the week’s journey. Tuesday we put a little more effort into it but there is still a lot to do. But when Wednesday comes, we are already going about it full throttle. Thursday is all about the final drafting to see if everything is all right. On Friday, just submit and effort go home feeling good that you’re done.

Of course, there are times when a snag hits the plan. Still, if you can find a way to adjust the plan to fit the situation, then there’s no problem. What is important is that you get it done before the deadline. Well tomorrow is the start of the daily grind. While I work, I’m going to waiting on Wednesday as a sign that I’m almost done.


Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Song I Listen To When I'm Sad And Searching For A Place Where I Can Smile Again: Blue Bayou By Roy Orbison




Though I don't show it, lately I've been feeling very melancholic and alienated. I guess this is because I've been trying so hard to find a way to solve things here that I've been missing out on a lot of things. Each day, this feeling is getting stronger and I feel so alone in my dilemma that I want to go back to the old days when we lived in the big house in the old road. Back then, there was was less pressure, we were close and tight and the good times kept going and going. Longing for the old house reminds me of the song "Blue Bayou" by Roy Orbison.

Linda Ronstadt sang a version of this song but I'm a stickler for the original song. Anyway, every time I hear this song it really makes me wish we were back in the old house. I always get that far away look when I hear it. I guess the frustration of what I am feeling makes the feeling to go back grow even more intense. It was so much happy back then and there was not a care in the world.

Sadly, there's no going back. I'm left with what I'm facing and dealing with in the present and it sucks big time! Still, that doesn't mean that I'm going to throw the towel and curl up in a corner. I still believe that things will get better if I just keep trying. When that happens, I'll be at ease even if the big house is no more.

Monday, August 23, 2010

A Really Cool Relaxing Song About A Sad Separation: Sail On By The Commodores




You know it’s ironic how some songs sound so relaxing yet when you listen to the lyrics, it talks about a sad and painful separation. This is the type of songs that makes you want to pull up a chair light a cigar and pour a drink. At that point, you let the smoke and spirits take control as you drift by on what was. It’s strange that some songs that sound so sad can be so relaxing. One song that does that is “Sail On” by The Commodores.

This song really relaxes me when I had a hard day and things didn’t go well. When you listen to the lyrics, it’s very sad though. It talks about calling it quicks after failing to make a relationship work. As hard as it is to do, you have no choice but to let it go. Once the break is final, walk away while you still can because it will only hurt if you linger.

Despite, the sad message, there’s a light note at the end of the song as it gives both parties a chance to start anew. When the good times start, it really does feel good. People deserve to feel good after the bad times are over. As for me, this song not relaxes me but gives me hope that one day things will be better. For now, I’ll just sail on down memory lane with the smoke, spirits and this song to guide me.


Sunday, August 22, 2010

Well Keep It To Yourself Pal!: Everything About You By Ugly Kid Joe




Once in a while, you’ll bump into someone who’s pissed at the world. People like this will probably find something wrong and will start a large tirade about it. Sometimes they just do it just for the heck of it. I wouldn’t want to be caught with these kind of people who just plain angry. When I think about such jackasses, the song “Everything About You” by Ugly Kid Joe comes to mind.

As I’ve stated before, just because you had a bad day, that doesn’t mean you have to ruin other people’s day as well. Once their anger gets the best of them, they just lash out at anybody even those sympathize with their plight. They’ll also do start picking at your weaknesses or shortcomings and before you know it, you’re miserable and angry as well. What’s worse is that you pass it on and in the end, everybody’s mad. Nice job jerk!

I could never bring myself to do that. It’s not right to spread your crap around like Typhoid Mary. I guess that’s the reason why I work out because I take out my anger through the weights or sparring and by the time the session is over, my anger is spent without hurting anyone intentionally. For those guys who do this, you are a bunch of sad individuals. I hope you get help someday. As for your anger, keep it to yourself pal!

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Time To Call It A Day But Still Not Satisfied: Closing Time By Semisonic




I remember how I use to stop by a bar after work, to unwind after a hard day. Nothing fancy, just a couple of brews to relax and reflect by. Sometimes I stay until the bartender tells me it’s time to close shop and reluctantly, I’m on my way home. Still, at least I was able to relax a bit but I wish something else would happen. Wanting to stay further but can’t reminds me of the song “Closing Time” by Semisonic.

During my younger days, whether it was the end of class or work, you can bet that we’d head off to our favorite hang out to wind and have some fun. There are times when you wish that something else would happen. Something that you just give you a something new and inspiring for a change rather just go home and heading for a hurl at the toilet. Alas, I still haven’t found it yet.

I guest it’s because of the lack of closure in my life is the reason why I am reluctant to go home. Like everyone else, maybe there’s some that I want to happen but just have the trouble of making it so. Will I ever find it and if I do, will I be satisfied? I guess it’ll take a while. I guess that’s we’re all reluctant to leave when it’s closing time because we still want some to happen.

Friday, August 20, 2010

Times When I Wish The Night Lasted Longer: One More Night By Phil Collins




Like I said before, the bad news just doesn't stop coming these days. Apart from worrying about my mother's health and emotional state, there too many things happening that's bad and the good doesn't show any signs of appearing anytime soon. Amidst all this, I try my best to keep my head above water. The only solace that I have now is when the day is really over and everyone is fast asleep because at point in time, everyone is at peace. When I think about the comfort that the night brings, I listen to the song "One More Night" by Phil Collins.

It's only when the day is over that I can breathe a heavy sigh. While everybody's doozing off till dawn, I've been up and thinking a lot about how to cope with everything that's been happening and a lot of it has been bad. The worst part about it is that what I am working on online has not yet yielded any results. Already, there's talk on cutting back which is inevitable but what I fear is that one day everything will go down the drain. I will not let that happen.

Right now, I'm doing all that I can on what I am working online in the hopes that it will help ease the problems here. I am also considering other net options that might also help in this situation that we are facing. I just hope that it starts yielding results cause we need it badly. As for now, I'll take solace in the tranquility that the night brings when everything is done for the day. Atleast I can take comfort knowing that we've made through the end of the day.


phil collins - one more night
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Thursday, August 19, 2010

I Should Have Seen It Coming: I Should Have Known By Aimee Mann

Boy, what a terrible weekend I had and the start of the week was no better. I failed to withdraw money from the atm and got a ticket for a wrong turn. To start it off, I got scrutinized on Sunday dinner, failed to attend mass because I couldn’t park the car and then I was told that some institution was not happy with the work that I made even if it was accurate. When bad things happen, it can really make your head spin and hurt so bad you’d wish that had you known that these things would happen, you’d have avoided it. Having that “I Knew It” phrase ringing in my head reminds me of the song, “I Should Have Known” by Aimee Mann.

I was taking a chance when that traffic incident happened because I wanted to give my share of the expenses as soon as possible and this is what I get for my troubles. As for the scrutiny at dinner, I guess it happens from time to time and until what I’m working on the internet yields results, I’m defenseless against it because I got into this predicament out of my own mistakes. For the write-up, I made sure that everything was in order and they endorsed the activity to me which is why I felt like I was slapped in the face when I heard the news. Boy, when things go wrong, it’s like the domino effect!

Well, live and learn is what they say so I guess that’s what I’ll do. Sure, this stinks but I am not going to curl up and hide under my bed. Life is hard and you’ve got face that hardship if you want to survive, let alone succeed. I guess the best thing for me to do is to learn from this so that it won’t happen again. You can’t foresee the future but you can learn from the past and move on.

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

I Guess I Still Haven't Achieved It Yet: One Great Thing By Big Country




The fact that I'm getting older is really starting to weigh in on me emotionally. I guess this is because of the fact that I haven't achieved anything of note and I feel that time has already passed me by. Something that would brighten up my life and me feel like I really did something meaningful that I can take to my grave knowing that my life was not a waste. I guess that's one of the things that still drives me on and I'm still searching for that great thing. With this thought hanging heavily on my head, I feel like listening to the song "One Great Thing" by Big Country.

As I've seen before, I've seen to many dreams and goals crumble into dust which me feel like I'm a ball bouncing off the walls without end. As much as I don't want to cry over spilled milk, thought of what could've been is starting to eat at my emotional wall of fortitude. The fact that a lot of bad things have been happening one after another is really starting irk me and the slightest talk of things starting to disappear one by one is starting to make me paranoid of an eventual slip down to the slums. That's the reason why I'm trying hard to make what I'm doing on the internet reap some benefits which would greatly help in maintaining things around here. I just hope that it does and that I will be able to sustain it before everything disappears lock, stock and barrel.

If I can just do this then not only would I have done something great but also be able to have some peace of mind knowing that all that I've put into and gambled on was worth it. Man, if this fails it would break my heart and I can see my freedom and dreams truly destroyed forever. I just hope that I can turn things around with this because I can no take hold of my life and finally prove that I did something right. That would be great enough for me.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

How I Wish For A Stress-Free State Without The Guilt: Just Like Heaven By The Cure




Just when I thought that all the crap that happened in the weekend was over, all chaos broke out again. I don't know what happened but our household help just when crazy and now my mother has unceremoniously threw this weasel out. Right now the whole house is in an uproar which sunk my spirits to an all-new low. Right now, I wish I was a somewhere pleasant where everything was was cool and there was no crap to ruin one's mood. Longing for such a place and to be in such a state reminds me of the song "Just Like Heaven" by The Cure.

Man, with all the trouble that we're dealing with this had to happen. This just goes to show that you can't keep your guard down with people no matter how much they do a good job. I am trying hard to keep my composure and remember the good old times when things were set and everyone was cool. I'm trying hard to keep this happy image in my head amidst all this ruckus caused by this ungrateful idiot. I guess my imagination isn't doing so well.

I guess the only thing to do now is deal with it. I guess we made a mistake of taking care of a bunch of snakes. The image of a happy place with happy people is not holding so I guess I have to take the bull by the horns. Well, I have deal with this now cause I'm here. Hopefully, tranquility will come again and we can get with our lives in peace.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Well You Know Where To Look For Me: If You Want Me By Suzanne Vega




They say that every dog has its day. If that’s the case, well today was my turn to get shot down. It’s bad enough that you try to get things done and somebody just has to have the urge to do a thousand things all at once with break-neck speed. To top it off, you just have to be the object of discussion. Right now, I am so angry that I just want to disappear cause if I don’t, I just might raise chaos here and if they persist, they’ll just look for me. With that in mind and a very bad mood to boot, I feel like listening to Suzanne Vega’s song “If You Want Me”.

There are parts of this song which describes very well what my gripes are with people around me. One thing’s for sure and that it sure fits an outsider like me who’s had more than a fair share of ridicule. Whenever I feel offended, I’d take a walk and just disappear to get the steam out of my system. I hate when you’re there and they start criticizing your and put you under the microscope after ruining your entire day when there are so many other things you could’ve have done. Gee, let’s see how they like it when the tables are turned and when they are, I doubt that they can take it.

Right now, my dander is up and though I appear calm, deep inside I am pissed off. It’s hard enough as it is right now and I don’t want to have swallow anymore crap than I have to. I’m gonna try to compose myself and hope that tomorrow that this was all a bad dream which unfortunately isn’t. Don’t bother me cause I’m not in the mood. Go find someone else to turn inside-out cause you guys take fiendish delight in doing so which is why a lot of good people are suddenly very hard to find.

Still Feeling Restless: Bad Boys Running Wild By The Scorpions




Though I don’t show it, I really am feeling very restless these past few weeks. I guess it’s because it’s been a while since I’ve done something that I truly enjoyed doing. Add to the fact that I’m getting older (white hairs are really sprouting out of my beard) and the fact that things are still shaky are really weighing heavy on my mind. I feel the need to do something really explosive for myself to get this restless feeling out. The need to do something really grand reminds me of the song “Bad Boys Running Wild” by The Scorpions.

Though I still work out and jog, it’s not enough to get this restlessness out of my system. As I’ve mentioned before, I miss my martial arts training because unlike just working out, I not only learn to defend myself but also get the chance to physically engage in combat which really thrilling for me because it’s the closest thing to getting into battle without killing. The feeling that you put in a good fight win or loose always made me feel good. Even if I wind up getting bruised or battered, the thrill that I get from fighting is the best thing for getting the adrenaline out. Man, I really miss it.

Despite this restlessness, first things first and that’s to stabilize things around here. Even my masters would say the same thing to me. I just hope my activity on the internet would bear fruit because I can sure use it as it would really help things out here. Apart from that, it would give the chance to go back in training and get old outlet that I need to bleed it out. I know that day will come again. When it does, this boy’s gonna really run wild.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

It's Nice To Know That There's Somebody That Cares: Reach Out I'll Be There By The Four Tops




I remember there was a time when I was really depressed to the point that I thought there was no one to turn to. Things were really bleak and I was alone and struggling with all my demons. Then from out of the blue, one of my brothers reached out and gave me strength to deal with my dilenma. It was nice to know that even during one's bleakest moments, there's always a helping hand that will pull you out of the abyss. It's in times like that I remember the song "Reach Out I'll Be There" by The Four Tops.

Apart from this experience, there were other people out there, who helped pull me out of a deep funk at other times in my life. I still remember Jovy who was my former office mate who always lent her ear so that I can pour out my woes and there's my pal Inaki who always cheered me up over a brew and a herb when my temper was hot. Now I also have friends on the net like John Marine, Jenny Escano and many others who have lent their support to what I am working on. That really warms my heart at night.

Like I've said before, they were there for me and I try my best to be there for them. Like my brothers, they help keep me going even during the toughest times. The way that they reached out to me is something that I can never repay. That's I do my best to help them and give my new net friends my "support" as they done for me.
It's nice to know that there's someone out there who would do that and I am eternally grateful for it which is why I do what I can for them and others because they did so for me.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Just Plain Carless: Careless Whisper By Wham



As I have stated before, I hate making mistakes because of the consequences that they carry. You'll be lucky if you're forgiven after a slap in the wrist for doing something careless, but there are some things that can really mark you for the rest of your life. What's worst is when we loose someone very dear to us because we let our own hormones cloud our better judgment. One song that really embodies the consequences of being careless is Wham's "Careless Whisper".

I was never a fan of this song but it bests describes what happens when you're caught in the act and realize that it's too late to make things right. Some people have it all, including a spouse who's fidelity is unquestionable. But what do they do, they play around and when they get caught in the act, the whole house comes tumbling down. As always, it's always in the end that one regrets one's actions. I guess they don't realize what they have until it's gone.

These days this song has gained new notoriety for being used in a video between a rising young female star and a doctor a skin clinic which has now ended up in court. Boy, these people knew what they were getting into but they still did it and now not only they but the people around them are in deep crap. Well, this is what happens when you don't think period. Well as Mr. Miyagi said in the Karate Kid II, "Never put passion before principle. Even if win, you lose!" In the end, if anyone ever falls into this trap, I can say that they were both careless and stupid to boot!

Thursday, August 12, 2010

What We Need To Get Some Order Here: Laying Down The Law By Paul Rodgers




You know in politics, we always hear that people will change this and change that. When it comes to the real thing, it's either nothing happens or things get worse. In the end, you're so so disappointed that you just shake your head, regretting the choice the choice that you've made. What we need are people who really mean what they and will lay down what they promise. That reminds me of the song "Laying Down The Law" by Paul Rodgers.

This is another one of those great 80's song that I haven't of in a long time. Anyway, every time I pick the paper and read the daily blues, it makes me wonder if anything is getting done around here. What's worse is that I get the feeling that all the bad guys are winning while those who fight the good fight got their hands all tied up. It makes you feel that it was all talk. After that things stay the same or get worse.

What we need is someone who is willing to take the bull by the horns. Someone who take all the mavericks and pull them together and assert what's right around here. What's more we need someone who is willing to do what's right and get everyone in line with the program. Someone who knows how to lay down the law is what we need. When that person will come, we can only hope. We can. sure use someone like that right now if we want change to happen.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

When Things Come To An End: Goodbye By The Spice Girls




you listen to the playlist of 24K, sometimes it strikes you that more and more new songs are now being aired on the program. Songs that were once brand new have now joined the ranks of 24K. Whenever that happens, I get the feeling the feeling that another era has ended and sadly another band, artist or group has called it a day. I guess all things come to an end, eventually. One song that signifies that is "Goodbye" by The Spice Girls.

I remember during the mid-90's when these girls burst into the music scene, they defined girl power during that decade. They were making one hit after another and it seemed that they were here to stay. Then one of their members broke off from the group. When this song came out, it was an announcement that they were calling it quits. I guess a lot of people were surprise to learn the news.

I guess it's that old lesson that nothing lasts forever. One moment you're there and the next moment you're gone. Though I'm not a fan, it saddens me when a group or an artists suddenly disappears from the scene, especially after all the work they put in and the impact that they have. Well, I hope they're doing okay right now. I hope they're happy with what they're doing now because they deserve it after all that hard work.


Spice Girls Goodbye
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Tuesday, August 10, 2010

This Not Only Sanctifies Me But Also Gives Me Hope That There's Something Good Out There: Caravan Of Love By The House Martins




Like I've said before, a good 24K song is better than any pill when you feel bad. One or two songs are enough to lift me out of a really bad mood. Apart from that, for some reason it gives me hope when things aren't going very well. This is particularly true for songs from the 70's and the 80's when things were very carefree. One song that does both is The House Martins'version of Caravan Of Love".

This was originally done by The Isley Brothers, I also like their version. I like the fact that it was an acoustic version which really made their voices shine through. Whenever I want to forget a really bad day or when something ruins my mood, I listen to this song and I feel better in no time flat. Who needs Prozac when this makes you feel good.

More than that, it gives me hope when there isn't any out there. The fact that it speaks of spreading love rather than hate is a really cool message. With the way things are, we really need more songs like these. These days it's all about whining and refusing to take responsibility for your mistakes which I don't need. If that's the case, I this and all my other 24K songs any time because they make me feel good and that's good enough for me.

Monday, August 9, 2010

Finally, I Found The Name Of This Song: No Time For Talk By Christopher Cross




As I’ve stated before, the reason why I’m a 24K fan because aside from the fact that many of these songs were played during the important times of my life, a lot of them sound really good. I’ve said it before and I’ll saying that these songs are so good that they make you stop what you’re doing and just listen to the song till it ends. Trouble is sometimes I forget the name of these songs which makes it so hard to look for them. I really have to scour the archives just to find them. Another that I was finally able to learn the title was Christopher Cross’ “No Time For Talk”.

Rt use to play this from time to time. It was about a bad break-up which one didn’t have time or didn’t want to make time to dwell on. One’s for sure and that once I hear it, it has that 24K effect on me. I just want to stop and groove to the tune which is one of the coolest that I’ve heard. Man, I was wracking my head since 1985 as to what the name of this song was. After all these years, I finally found out.

I guess the next step is to add it up to my 24K collection. It definitely goes up there in terms of rarity and good sound. I really have to thank Jeremiah Jr. for telling the name of this as well as other 24K classics. It really goes up there and I couldn’t ask for anything more. After that, I’ll resume my hunt for more the great hits. This songs are worth their weight in 24K gold and they work wonders for the soul

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Sunday, August 8, 2010

I Could Sure Use One Right Now: Remedy By The Black Crowes




With all the hardships that have been popping up lately, it’s no surprise that people are really doing all they can to keep things together. Sometimes the weight of it all can bear down on a person, making them think that there’s no end in sight. Even if it is wishful thinking, we would like to think that there’s some magic out there that can just take all the crap away and life can be fun again. Wouldn’t it be nice if such a thing was possible? The need to really have a solution for one’s dilemma reminds me of the song “Remedy” by The Black Crowes.

This is kind of song that I’d listen to when I’ve just had a sixth round and want to chase the blues away. When the problems get too much and you want to get away even for a little while to find an outlet for your frustration, you sometimes wish that it would just disappear. At this point, you get desperate and figure out what’s the best way out of the mess your in. I knew getting stewed isn’t going to solve your woes. Still, sometime we need to drown ourselves a bit just to get our bearings on the situation.

There’s never a quick remedy for really bad problems. It’s always a matter thinking and staying with it. These take time and although we can use some time out, we have to get to the fray and keep going at it until we finally solve it. That’s what I intend to do and I’m doing all that I can. Still, it’d be nice if there really was a remedy that achieve all that. I can sure use one right now and so could a lot of people.

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Those Tempting Job Ads: The Royal Scam By Steely Dan



With times getting tougher, people are trying to all that they can to make ends meet. While some try to get into higher-paying jobs and others try to go abroad, there are those try to take part-time jobs to make some extra cash. Unfortunately, some of these jobs often cost more for the people who get into them than the money that they make or they have to go the extra-mile for it. It gets even harder because even if they do make something out of it, it gets harder to sustain it and in the end you work harder there than your main line of income, proving the sad fact that there is no such thing as easy money. With thought in mind, I feel like listening to Steely Dan's song "The Royal Scam".

Though some say this is about illegals entering the country, for me thing song reminds of all those instant cash schemes I use to read in the job section or in advertisements in the the internet. The ads that feature jobs that pay lucrative salaries not in months but weeks sounds so good that you forget to check the company's name or what they are about. The next thing you know, you're peddling some kind of commodity door to door in an effort to make a sale and wear out your clothes and shoes from all that walking. Doing that today is even tougher because people are really holding on to their money and don't want to take chances on something that they don't know, let alone need. It would take a real charmer to pull it off in this line of work.

You know you better take a good, long and hard look at the fine print. Some ads sound too good to be true. In some cases, the worse part of it all is when they ask you for a fee before you start the training. Still, you can never be too careful in checking these things out. Better ask around to save yourself a lot of trouble. That way you can avoid falling for a real pain-in-the-butt royal scam.

Friday, August 6, 2010

They Were There For You, Be There For Them: James That's Why I'm Here By James Taylor




I always believe that one good turn deserves another which means that if someone helps you, you them when they need it. This is especially true when those who help you are strangers who did it because it's the right thing to do and are ready to be there for you no questions asked. People like are now becoming a rare breed and when someone like that pulls us up from the void, it is just that we return the good deed tenfold. I guess that's the reason why I return the favor to those who help me because they were there for me. When it comes to people who are always there for you, the song "That's Why I'm Here" by James Taylor comes to mind.

Whether it was friends and family who were there when my father passed away or those people who took time to support my efforts on the net or people who defended me when I was falsely accused and being ganged up upon, these people came through for me and my family during the times when there was nobody to lend a hand. Because of that, I do my best to be there when they need me. It hurts me if I don't come through because recalling all that they had done, I should've done them one better. The fact that they asked nothing in return is only fitting that we be there and do more. That continuous cycle of being there for each other is what we all need now that times are tough.

I know may sound like making a big boast but I really want to be there for those who helped me. I could never thank them enough. Guys like my friends and my brothers buddies who were there for us through the years. Old acquaintances who continue to keep the bonds of friendship alive. My followers who took a liking to my efforts like John Marine, Jenny Escano and other new friends I've met through the internet. I can't thank you guys enough. You guys were there for me and that's why I'm here for you.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Battered But Still Here: Through The Barricades By Spandau Ballet




I can’t believe we’re half way through this year and before you know it, it’s over. It started pretty well then my father’s sudden passing cast great shadow over us. I still can’t believe that he’s gone which is why we are doing the best that we can to pull together as a family as we prepare for the trails that lay ahead. Still, for some reason we came out all right and hopefully, we’ll continue to do so. Making it through all those years reminds me of the song “Through The Barricades” by Spandau Ballet.

A lot of times, I’ve seen fire and rain and I know my family’s seen and been through worse. A lot of wrong decisions and wasted opportunities can play hell on your life. It could give you a one-way-ticket to palookaville. In the end, however, everything rests with you and reap what you sow. Still, if accept the consequences of your actions and more on, then there’s hope for some change.

As a result, I really try to exercise more prudence in my decisions. I have to admit that I’m still a little stubborn about certain things, but nevertheless I have to be more practical even if I don’t like it. I just hope that what I’m working on will yield good results cause it’s not just for me but for the people around me. Right now, things are okay so far. I guess we’re still lucky cause we’ve been able to make through the years and hopefully we’ll continue to do so.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Song That Pays Tribute To A Great Actress That Also Rocked 1981: Bette Davis Eyes By Kim Carnes




Before there was cable, one of my thewas "The News That Rocked '81" which focused on the news and developments that happened in rock at the time. Whether it was break thus or break ups, or new star rising or the passing of legends, I glued to the show every time they featured it. A lot of my favorite singers and bands such as rush, Yes as well as artists such as Billy Squier, Steve Windwood. The one who got the attention was Kim Carnes. The song that had rocked that year was called "Bette Davis Eyes".

It was said to be a tribute to actress Bette Davis who was surprised that a song was named after her. It was the early days of music and I guess anything goes at the time. Though the video didn't make sense, the song still sounded cool. So cool that it won a Grammy. Those were the times.

Like a lot of 24K classics, this one had a lot of airplay back then. When I hear it on 24K, I'm often struck at how old this song is now. Still, it's a cool and haunting song. It goes up there with all the other 24K hits. I guess that's why I appreciate it now.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Saying A Prayer In The Hope That Things Will Be All Right: Say A Little Prayer For You By Aretha Franklin



You know the uncertainties that a person faces everyday always puts him or her on edge. You wake and try to be positive only to have something hit you from nowhere, leaving you annoyed or paranoid. That’s the reason why I pray before I go to bed in the hopes that things will get better. Some progressives will dismiss this as a childish thing but at least it gives me some sort of assurance that everything will be all right. With that in mind, I remember the song, “Say A Little Prayer For You” by Aretha Franklin.

It's been a rough 10 years for me and to add insult to injury, more problems just seem to pop up. I'm no saint but there times when I get frustrated because I try so hard and pray so hard only to have the opposite happen. As much as I don't want to loose faith, there are times when it gets frustrating and you fight the urge to curse or worse blaspheme. I know that we have to take bad as well as the good because that what life is. My gripe is that there's been too much of the bad and too little of the good.

Still, that doesn't mean that I take for granted the people and things that I still have with me. Not a day goes by that don't worry about everybody's safety because that last thing that I want is another tragedy. I guess that's the reason why I keep on trying and keeping praying in the hopes that things will get better and the storm will come to pass. In the mean time, I'll do what I can to help turn things around. Apart from that, I still say a little prayer.

Monday, August 2, 2010

If Your Determined, Nothing Will Stop You: Aint No Mountain High Enough By Marvin Gaye And Tammi Terrell




They say that whether you succeed or fail depends entirely on you. There might outside forces that could determine your success or failure but its all up to you on how you deal with these factors. Every success or failure that happens in our lives really tells us how we're going to we are going to live. This is where we really separate the men from the boys when it comes to getting it done. Being determined to get things accomplished despite the odds reminds me of the song "Aint No Mountain HIgh Enough" by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell.

You can say that Yoda from Star Wars probably listened to this song when he told Luke why he couldn't do it. True, getting something done is not going to be that easy. There will be a lot of obstacles that will hinder you or even discourage you from attaining your goals. However, if you are determined then there's nothing that can stop you. In fact, knowing what you're up against is one way of being realistic. Rather than cave in, once you know then that's half the battle. It's all up to you whether you're going to take it from there.

When you know what you're up against, then figure out ways on how to get around it. Read articles or ask people in the know and use what you've learned to help you achieve what you set out to do. Also be patient because it won't happen overnight which what I learned from John Marine who I am very much grateful to. If you know what to do and how to do it, then do it. In the end, you're the only who's stopping you from succeeding.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

You Guess What's Going Down When You Hear This Song: Smoke On The Water By Deep Purple




For those of you who have read my past entries, you can tell me and my brothers had our fair share of mischief when we were young. Whether it was wrecking our toys in war play or when our pals came over for a weekend meet, it was always on the wild side. Once the party started, it wouldn't take long for some bottles and people rolling on the flow. Whether it was a brew or a herb, someone was bound to drop out unconscious in the middle of it all. Those were the days all right when we can still hold for a while before we dropped. One song that was sure to be played during those times was Deep Purple's "Smoke On The Water".

This was based on the incident where a night club that band was suppose to play in got burned down and if I remember right, the description of the fire that people were putting out at the time. During our time, this was when the party or the get-together was already at its high mark and once lit, something inside was bound blow up. By then, either someone was already slump in his chair or heading to the toilet while trying to keep it in. The next day, you struggled to wake up and with your head spinning and your gut heaving. It'll take until lunchtime to get things together.

Ah, those were the old days when we partied all night. Today, however, is a different story. A lot of us are now health conscious and are not as strong as we use to be. Heck, every time I go to a party, I'm ready to call it a day after a few swigs. I guess it's a sign that I'm getting old. Oh well, I guess time to move on.