sounds & sights – the notorious neon

concert diaries | one night with dead and co

Ohhhhh boy, where do I even start with this one. I get excited all over again just thinking about this show.

If you listened to Episode Six of the Pod, you heard me talk allll about seeing Dead & Company a few months ago. Now that I am an official Deadhead, I figured I needed to revisit the topic since I can’t shut up about being a Deadhead. Haha.

I knew I had to witness John Mayer and his guitar playing again, because I felt like it was such a spiritual experience the first time around. However, I didn’t really do much in terms of finding tickets for this show until, oh I don’t know, the day of the show. What can I say? I work well under pressure.

So I found these tickets, but wasn’t sure exactly where the seats were until we got there. Surprise, surprise…Jess had secured a lovely spot in the pit. That’s right, we witnessed the glory of Dead & Co with John Mayer from relatively close. Riiighttt abouuuttt hereee…

And everyone there seemed to have about 30 years on us…talk about slightly intimidating. But if we’re being honest, I would not have wanted to be inducted into the Deadhead cult in any other way. (Don’t get me wrong – I say that with great love and admiration.) Everyone was so friendly and the vibe was the closest thing I’ve found to the Bonnaroo vibe while not actually on The Farm. Plus, it’s pretty amusing to watch hundreds of people my parents’ age smoking joints so freely in public while also wearing tie dye. Just sayin’! Everyone I encountered at the show was so excited that the next generation actually knew who The Dead were and wanted to see the latest version of them live.

A little history…

I grew up listening to good music. Like reealllyyy good music (thx Mother and Patricio!) In fact, my very first memory in my life is riding in the back of my dad’s old truck on our way to our annual family camping trip in Sun Valley and “Here Comes The Sun” by The Beatles is playing. That moment has shaped my entire life since.

Naturally in junior high, I went rogue and got obsessed with Lil Wayne (sorry not sorry). Then at one point in high school all I cared about was rock climbing, tie dye and old school rock music. (I feel like now I’ve found a solid balance…for the most part).

This is when my Grateful Dead listening adventure began. I specifically remember driving to a local coffee shop after school, windows down, blaring “Scarlet Begonias” and “Fire on the Mountain” and “Casey Jones” the whole way there. At this time, I threw them in the pile of bands I could never see live along with Bob Marley and Nirvana. Regardless, I still listened and loved.

I even used the line “What a long, strange trip it’s been” in my last editorial piece in the school newspaper during my senior year.

So when Dead & Company manifested and John Mayer was invited to play, I saw the slight chance appear. But really, are there any Deadheads in Vegas? Turns out yes, yes there are.

The concert experience itself was one of the best I’ve ever witnessed outside of a festival. It was refreshing to be around people who wanted to focus on seeing and experiencing the show rather than Snapping the whole damn thing. I was in awe to be able to see all of these legendary musicians performing in front of me. This was one of those shows where you close your eyes and literally feel the music. It was truly amazing.

I found myself swaying along as the band jammed out and led us on a journey. So far out that, at certain points, you couldn’t even remember what song they were playing. I barely touched my phone and I found myself truly lost in the music. I wasn’t ready to leave, I didn’t get impatient for the song to end and I felt so peaceful the entire time. Plus being able to see the band when I wanted was so nice. Frequent concerts when you’re 5 foot nothing means you don’t usually see any of the action. Such is my life.

After it was over, I found myself wishing I could go back again. I could see why people have literally followed this band since day one. Most importantly, I finally felt like I could call myself a true Deadhead!

I promptly went home and subscribed to Amazon Prime so I could watch “Long Strange Trip”, the six episode documentary on the history of The Grateful Dead. The doc is so carefully and deliberately done and it offers a fascinating look into The Dead and what they have meant to fans over the years. I highly recommend.

So if you can…go see Dead & Co. Watch the documentary. Both are essential if you even like one song from this band. Truly a life changing and magical experience.

❤

the first third aka spring 2017 |TNN PLAYLISTS

*here, have a pointless pre-John Mayer selfie I never posted. you’re welcome*

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Hey y’all! HAPPY FRIDAY!

As promised, my Spring ’17 playlist! I mentioned in the podcast that I would be posting it and it includes some of my faves from the first four months of this year!

Click below to see what’s caught my eye this spring and stayed tuned because the songs of the summer are on their way!

*I also have my “may” playlist public with all the new fresh jams from the last couple of weeks!

❤ Jess

love on the weekend | one night with john mayer

Hey Y’all…

If you listened to the Podcast yesterday about my three concerts in three nights featuring John Mayer experience you will know it left me…speechless. (If you haven’t…go LISTEN!!)

I bought my ticket to this show – no – experience on an impulse. John is someone I’ve always wanted to see, but I’d already made plans to attend two concerts on the two nights leading up to his. Three shows in three nights? Who does that?

Me. I do.

I didn’t even check to see if anyone was available/wanted to attend with me, I just bought the “best seat available” and prayed that didn’t mean I would get placed next to someone who wanted to sit down and be a bore the whole time. Spoiler alert: I got lucky in this department.

As I made my way onto the floor of TMobile Arena located in The Park behind New York, New York on Las Vegas Boulevard aka “The Strip”, I asked the usher if I was in the right section. (This was my first time attending a concert in the year-old venue, let alone stepping foot in the place.)

His eyes grew wide and replied “Ohhh no, you are allll the way up there” and points to the stage. My “best seat available” turned out to be eleven short rows back from the stage. Immediately, the most genuine smile began to appear on my face…I was not only going to witness thee one and only John Mayer, I was going to be able to actually see him during the show. I was going to be able to watch him play the guitar with all the fire and passion that can be heard on his live albums. I was going to witness a genius.

Opening for John was a band from L.A. called LANY. Before seeing them live, I had heard some of their songs and I’d also heard they sounded like bootleg The 1975. I found that they sounded pretty good and I was impressed by their musicianship. My seat mates and I did decide that the lead singer sounded very similar to the man of the evening himself, but also that, if we all weren’t at a John Mayer concert we probably would not have drawn that conclusion.

One set down, one more to enjoy.

Maker’s Ginger Ale in hand and quarter-life crisis in tow, I was ready for a man I’ve been singing along to and admiring the lyrics of for the last sixteen years (holy shit – didn’t realize the actual number prior to this). I remember only having a CD player in my car at the age of 15 and alternating “Continuum” and “Heavier Things” every time I drove.

There’s just something about “Clarity” and driving in the mountains. Spiritual…AF.

Anyway…the show…in one word? Phenomenal. Life-Changing. Magical. Inspiring. (Okay…four words were necessary.)

There are so many sides and stories to John and his music. His decision to break the show up into “Chapters” featuring him and the band, him and his acoustic guitar, and the John Mayer Trio was effective and enjoyable. The audience was able to experience a range of songs, memories and skills from the musicians in front of us. I always knew John could play the guitar, but it wasn’t until he was actually in front of me, jamming out, feeling and believing in his music that I truly understood how much of musician he really is.

There’s just something about people who are so passionate about what they do, when they truly believe in it…it’s beautiful and it makes you want to be a part of it.

His set list ranged from “Why Georgia” up to “Love on the Weekend” with plenty of guitar solos in between. I could actually close my eyes and feel like I was experiencing something magical. (Even though I didn’t want to close my eyes because HELLO JOHN MAYER WAS DIRECTLY IN FRONT OF ME.)

I barely even had a desire to look at my phone or take any photos (maybe 3?) or videos (maybe 3?) because I was too busy living in the moment. Which makes for a less than spectacular recap of it all, I realize.

So my advice to you is, go see the man live in concert – if you can. I can honestly say it was bigger than a concert and now currently sits at the number one spot on the list of the “best concerts I’ve ever been to”…seriously.

Coming out of this whole thing, I feel so inspired in my life. To chase more, to be more, to do more. And to do it all authentically. Not to mention, I think it’s time to see John Mayer again. And maybe take more pictures?

Is this the part where I become a groupie?

i put a spell on you, down on the bayou | bach week 5 commentary

Hey guys, I’m back with my Bach commentary! The last couple of weeks have felt a little chaotic and I couldn’t find the energy to even try to decipher all of these girls and their behaviors. Luckily, I was so thrilled for all the drama to unfold last night!

So this week we get to start off with a rose ceremony and a mild, albeit temporary, conclusion to the Corinne/Taylor drama. And I was MORE than ready for that!!

Just some more “you’re not emotionally intelligent,” “you’re a bully” nonsense, but it was hilarious to watch. Taylor, you literally need to stop talking. You have no room to talk about maturity or anything of the sort.

#TeamPrincessCorinne

It was brought to my attention on Twitter that Corinne is in fact older than Taylor. By a year. So there’s that.

Next we got to see the actual rose ceremony to conclude the group’s time in Nick’s hometown. I was thoroughly disappointed that Sarah Sneakers went home. She was clever and cute, but not much of a standout. Taylor’s immature ass should have gone home. Such is life on The Bach.

I think it was at this point that Corinne spoke my favorite quote of the night. I liked it so much that it is my new Twitter tag line.

“Come at me. I’ll getcha.” – Princess Corinne

So now we hightail it to NEW ORLEANS!! A city that I’ve been dying to visit. From the history, the voodoo, the beignets, it’s all so intriguing and magical. Literally.

Plus it’s given me an excuse to listen to “Louisiana Bayou” by Dave Matthews Band while I write this. Win-Win-Win.

It is revealed that we have a 1-on-1, a group date and DUN-DUN-DUN…the ever-dreaded 2-on-1. I bet producers NEVER thought we could guess who would be the lucky recipients of that one.

abc season 12 alex the bachelorette chad

[Sooo many Alex/Chad vibes from Jojo’s Bachelorette season. Remember kids, milk is delicious.]

My second favorite Rachel gets the 1-on-1 date and I couldn’t have been more thrilled. I was sooo jealous of their date: culture of the city, the jazz band, the beignets (duh). Best date of the entire franchise in my opinion. It made me want to book a flight so I could eat while also dancing in the middle of the street. And drink a Bloody Mary. Then again, I could always go for a Bloody.

Plus their chemistry is amazing. It was so refreshing to watch them together. She really is everything you could want in a partner. Is she still single??

Anyway…back at the ranch aka JW Marriott…

Of COURSE Corinne and Taylor are on the 2-on-1. OF FUCKING COURSE. YESS. (direct quote from last night – too good to edit.)

But first…Group Date time! In a haunted house! This episode only kept getting better. Like honestly, date of my dreams, I would be so on board with something like this.

But come onnn Producers, I see you with the special effects. How was it not obvious to the girls in the house? Whatever, at least it gave me a chance to refill my bowl of Thai curry.

Danielle M got the Enchanted Rose (sponsored by the new Beauty & The Beast movie! #ad.) And thank God she did because that definitely gave me some points in the Fantasy League.

The best part of this segment was hands-down the check-ins with Corinne and Taylor preparing for the 2-on-1 date.

Corinne: a face mask, bottle of Champs, bubble bath, room service. Yes this girl knows what’s up. Treat yo-self girl!

Taylor: Sitting on the floor, in front of a mirror, surrounded by candles and essential oils. Am I the only one who thought this looked like a seance?? She’s not only mean, she’s probably a witch.

Finally, we get to the part of the ep we have ALL been waiting for: the 2-on-1 date featuring round 2 of the Corinne/Taylor drama!!

So they’re going down on the bayou to do what?

*THIS IS THE PART WHERE ABC STOPPED WORKING AND THE CHANNEL SIGNAL WAS LOST AND I WAS DISTRAUGHT FOR 10 MINUTES*

Luckily for me, signal returned and all was right with the world. I tuned in at the part where the tarot card reader wanted to read the girls separately. So these girls, and Nick, are hanging out in the swamps, huh? I was secretly hoping Corinne would accidentally knock Taylor into the water.

More drama, more Nick stuck in the middle and, finally, a resolution. BYE TAYLOR!!

As Nick left her on an island, in the swamp, by herself ALA Ben leaving Olivia on a windy island, by herself. I cheered. I laughed at the similarities. But something in Taylor’s tone told me, she wasn’t done yet.

I found it very creepy that she was hanging out with the people around that bonfire. They were probably practicing some sort of voodoo or sacrificing a goat. Taylor seemed to be loving it all. It must have inspired her to go crash Corinne and Nick’s dinner.

Can you say Chad whistling while drunkenly stumbling through the woods?! I can. I just did.

And that’s when they hit us with the “To Be Continued…” Bastards. I can’t wait a whole week to find out what happens next. Especially since Nick alluded to sending TWO women home on the 2-on-1.

Are his words yet another victim of shady Bach editing or is it really true??

Either way…I am so not ready for Corinne to leave us yet. She has so much potential and needs to be given time to blossom.

Last night really was just the “Corinne & Taylor” show and I’m not even mad. I was getting a little snoozy with Nick and his mumbling and these girls who don’t seem to have much personality (not all, but most).

Congratulations Bachelor Producers you have me craving another episode already and it’s only Tuesday.

Until next week…

*Gifs from giphy*

if you can’t take the drama, get tf off the show! | bach week 2 recap

Heyyyy Bach Nation!

The only song that has been playing in my head this week whenever I think about The Bachelor is “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back).” Maybe it’s because they have a residency in Vegas at Planet Hollywood this Spring/Summer (see you there!). Maybe it’s because I’m doing a project at work that features the boys. Either way I’m still so happy to have BACH back on my TV.

WEEK 2! I COULD NOT wait to get the drama started and this week did not disappoint!

First Date Card: “Always a bridesmaid…”

Ok so we’re doing a little multi-theme wedding photo shoot. Not awkward at all after knowing these girls for a rather booze-filled 12 hours. I do love watching these dates, however, because they give us a glimpse into how these girls react in competitive scenarios.

Here are my notes/thoughts on the date:

Vanessa Canada #1 – 80s Wedding – She’s classy and I think she has staying power.

Sarah Sneakers – Vegas Elopement Wedding – LOL! Vegas…

ABC Network episode 2 abc nick the bachelor — shout out vegas weddings! lol. had to.

Alexis MOTHAFUCKIN DOLPHIN SHARK – Shotgun Wedding – SHE’S HILARIOUS. This girl is someone I could be friends with, which also tells me she won’t last very long.

Hailey Canada #2 – Biker Wedding – She’s annoying. Apparently, I have no grounds to back that up, but whatevs.

Lacey – Real Exciting. Obvi. Glad she thinks Nanny Girl is inaprops. Was she a bridesmaid? There are still too many girls to keep track of at this point.

Brittany Spears – Adam & Eve Theme – I am hereby naming her “Brittany Spears” because I couldn’t get over how hot she was while also reminding me of the “I’m A Slave 4 U” video. Good Hair HOT AF. This is the best. This is my fave. She should have won. Her body, her hair…freakin GOALS man. Editor’s Note: Looking back, I don’t disagree with myself.

Jasmine G – Bridesmaid in the 80s Wedding. Kissed Nick as a bridesmaid. (Side note: did not know how to spell “bridesmaid” before last night.)

Raven Arkansas – Bridesmaid – Bonding over the fact they’ve both been cheated on. She’s the best. She’s honest, sassy and funny. Got the glitter off his nose and I really appreciate that she looks out for her people like that.

Danielle L’Nails – Traditional Wedding – She is GORG.

Taylor Maybe Stop Talking? – Princess Wedding – Gag me with a spork. From Taco Bell. Not because she isn’t pretty, but because I hate the whole “princess wedding” theme. And because I could realllly go for a Chalupa right now.

QUOTE OF THE NIGHT: “I’ve met girls like Corinne before…and they are not my friends.”

Elizabeth W – Bridesmaid – That’s all I wrote.

Corinne Princess Nanny Girl – Beach Wedding Theme – Even though she was the last to have her photo shoot, she surely was not going to be least. She’s already extremely possessive over Nick and could already feel the competition creeping in on her territory as she watched the other girls take pictures and make out with “her” man. What’s a Princess Nanny Girl to do? Apparently, take her top off. Which worked in her favor. Are we surprised?

Maybe she thinks she’s on a Tinder date? Could that be the reason she’s already half naked in a pool? I mean, it makes sense if you think about it.

Not to mention how she’s already winning villain points by interrupting both the MOTHAFUCKIN DOLPHIN SHARK and Taylor Maybe Stop Talking?.

But then to our surprise, Taylor Maybe Stop Talking? steals Nick back from Nanny Girl!!

ABC Network episode 2 abc the bachelor bachelor — she’s not wrong…

I’m loving this drama. LOVING it. I love her drunk-y pants gallivanting all over this date. I love her poor attempt at a Gossip Girl reference, but, like, maybe stop trying to make fetch happen?

This girl is dramatic, cringe-y and makes for some damn good television, so I’m not mad. Keep in mind, she’s going to bring the spice for the first few weeks until she turns stale and boring like a gluten-free bagel that hasn’t been properly stored. Then she’ll be kicked off, cry and, of course, show up on paradise while simultaneously promoting Skinny Tea on Instagram, running that million dollar business and requesting cucumber snacks from her Nanny.

And, surprise, surprise she gets the rose. Lesson learned: If you want to win, take your top off.

Ok moving on…

—————————————–

First One on One: “Our relationship is about to take off” aka… A Helicopter ride to a yacht

With my new fave: Danielle M Quiet Tennessee

I think this girl is an absolute angel – she’s cute, she’s so nice and apparently from Nick’s hometown. Small world eh?

I loved that Nick was mind-blown over the hot tub, on the yacht, in the ocean. (First HOT TUB of the season!)

Danielle opens up about her ex-fiance whom she found dead from a drug overdose. This girl seems strong (how could you not be after that?) and very genuine.

Final notes on the date:

-She got a rose.

-She’s my new fave.

-Her hair color is pretty.

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Date Card #3 (Group Date): “We need to talk…”

At the Museum of Broken Relationships…? A little awkward don’tcha think?

And their date is to publicly breakup with Nick? I think this is what we call a sadist.

Disclaimer: I did start switching between The Bach and the Bama game at this point – so I might have missed some things. However, I did NOT miss the awkward breakups in front of a live audience, that all-too real slap AND the Liz confession!

Christen – This girl is super adorable and I like her a lot. Her breakup was sassy, but not a standout.

Astrid Karate Chop – She karate chopped a rose. Was that a karate chop? I was distracted by the Bama loss 😦

Jaimi – Has a septum ring. And an ex-girlfriend!

Kristina Teeth – Reminds you to floss! Or you’ll get dumped!

Josephine Psycho Wiener Girl – Mmk. Was it just me or did this seem a little TOO real? Like maybe she’s been in a scenario like this before? I mean she actually SLAPPED him. The “psycho” portion of her nickname still stands.

ABC Network episode 2 abc nick slap — i now have genuine concern

Liz Stalker Vegas Girl From The Past! – Oh. Hell. Their time together in this museum is SO awkward! He’s clearly uncomfortable and avoiding her. I can’t believe she put the whole story of their one, singular night together out on the table. But then again, if you talk about something SO MUCH, it’s bound to come out to this group.

At this point I’m changing my opinion of loving her to thinking she just needs to leave. Like girl, what exactly did you come for??

—————————————–

*GIRLS WHO SAT AT THE MANSION ALL WEEK:

Rachel Dallas Lawyer – Didn’t get a date this week, but I’m not concerned. She did get the first impression rose after all.

Dominique – I have nothing to say.

Whitney – I couldn’t even pick you out of crowd.

*BYE FELICIA – WHO WENT HOME:

Liz Stalker Vegas Girl From The Past! – While I’m sad to see my one of my fave nicknames of the bunch leave, I think it was probably for the best. I mean, can we talk about those crazy eyes? NOT a good sign.

ice cube get out friday movie bye felicia

We do want a “dramatic season”…not an absolute shit show. This move shows Nick might be more serious than some of these girls are giving him credit for. Then again, why is this his fourth time??

She talked about the first night her and Nick met so much that we were all sick of it and ready for her to take her one-song show out of the Bach Mansion.

Also, if any of these girls are going to leave because of an ex-hookup that they happened to run into? Good leave, we don’t need you here. People hookup with people before they meet their spouse. You’ve done it too, so calm TF down. K? Cool.

ABC Network episode 2 abc nick the bachelor

Plus…NO rose ceremony? And Bama lost? Not an ideal Monday, but that’s what The Bach does…keeps us on the edge of our seats.

Until next week….

ABC Network abc nick premiere the bachelor

nicknames / what did we get ourselves into? | bach week 1 recap

nick

The Bachelor is back and I’m happy to say that I’m SO much more pumped for this season than last. Maybe it’s because I was still dabbling with the show at this time last year? Or maybe Ben was not someone I could see myself being interested in? Either way, my excitement for last season cannot compare with the pure joy I felt when I tuned in on Monday night.

The first ep of the season is always somewhat of a shit show and this one did not disappoint. While I attempted to take notes on every girl that exited a limo, it got to a point where they all blended together. Hellloooo red dresses.

(If I go on this show I’m def going to make my own dress out of a Snuggie. Don’t think we didn’t notice how long the first night went on producers. I saw those girls leave at sunrise and I’m allll about a mid-party nap.)

The show began with that obnoxious backstory about Nick, his “journey for love” and optimistic “Fourth time’s the charm!” rhetoric. If I had been on this show three times before, I probably would just give up and go start a tequila company. Or just sell it on Instagram. Additionally, if I were one of these girls I would wonder why Nick has been rejected…twice.

Next we had some mingling, some drinking, some Nick-stealing and crazy already starting to appear. It made me giddy like Christmas morning and we hadn’t even had a Rose Ceremony yet, which came next.

To be honest, I don’t pay attention to ALL of the girls for the first couple weeks. There are too many and I’m not trying to get emotionally invested in someone who’s leaving right away.

That being said, I don’t feel confident enough in my bracket to present a Top Four – I haven’t even made my final four picks on my Bach Fantasy League yet (yeah, I know) – but I will present you with the girls I put under the “YES” category aka the “they will remain on the show long enough for their baggage and drama-causing tendencies to appear” category.

YES:

Rachel – Dallas Lawyer – Love her! She’s strong, independent AND she got the FIRST IMPRESSION ROSE! YASS! The connection between the two was palpable at first sight and their chemistry is going to be AMAZING. However, she’s not my top pick. Which brings me to…

Vanessa – Canada #1, Special Needs Teacher – This girl is amazing and I think she’s there for the right reasons (lol – I definitely would not be, but whatever) I appreciate her for being everything I am not. She’s compassionate, heartfelt and speaks French, Italian and English. Ok. She’s my top pick for the whole shebang and word on the street is she’s the front-runner.

Liz – Stalker Vegas Girl From The Past! – I think Nick might be slightly butt-hurt over her and wants to see where it will go. I predict she goes “Vegas-Crazy,” which I am looking forward to.

Corinne – Princess Nanny Girl – A 25 year old “business owner” with a NANNY. SHE. STILL. HAS. A. NANNY. The Princess will stick around forever AND be the first to put out. She annoys me, but I appreciate her aggressiveness. This is going to be goooood. But in all honestly, please go home.

Josephine -Psycho Wiener Girl – The following is what I wrote about this girl: 24, Santa Cruz, Nursing Student, CRAZY BITCH. I think that covers it all.

Dominique – – She has no nickname yet because I don’t even remember meeting her, but apparently I liked her. Stay tuned.

Hailey – With The Good Joke, Canada #2 – I loved her “girls with no underwear” joke so much that I practically spit out my wine. Which rarely happens. That is all.

Alexis – MOTHAFUCKIN DOLPHIN SHARK – Alexis is from Jersey and doesn’t understand the difference between a shark and a dolphin. But that doesn’t matter because she seems like an absolute blast. I love a Jersey girl who gets drunk and jumps in the pool on the first night. So, like, same. I also noted that she has a “cute dog”. Also winner of:

*Best Job Title – “Aspiring Dolphin Trainer”

Taylor – Maybe Stop Talking? – A Johns Hopkins educated Mental Health Counselor. (LORD KNOWS this show could use a few of those.) She lives in Seattle and she seemed smart until…SHE TOLD HIM THAT HER FRIENDS HATE HIM. *Pro Tip: Don’t say that when you first meet him. Don’t say that ever. Maybe Stop Talking?

Sarah- Sneakers – entered by saying that she was “another runner up”. Love her sense of humor.

Danielle M – Quiet Tennessee – She grew on me as the episode went on, but I’m not sure how long she will last. Maybe Nick needs a quieter girl to balance out his ego. And she’s a nurse so if he pulls a muscle while working out she could probably take care of the issue. Or would he need an athletic trainer for that? IDK. *Side Note: It took 87% of this episode for me to figure out her actual, given name.

Raven – Arkansas – Raven is 25. Raven is from Arkansas and owns a clothing boutique. Raven is as southern as they come. I want to bring her to Vegas and party with her. Oh, and I’m guessing she’ll be Top 10.

Danielle L – L’Nails – She owns three nail salons which is cool. I honestly got so confused since there are two of them. Carry on…

My Favorites:

Rachel Dallas Lawyer, Vanessa Canada #1, Liz Stalker Vegas Girl From The Past!, Alexis MOTHAFUCKIN DOLPHIN SHARK, Taylor Maybe Stop Talking?, Sarah Sneakers, Raven Arkansas, Danielle M Quiet Tennessee, Danielle L’Nails

WHO I’M UNSURE OF:

Christen, Astrid, Elizabeth W, Jasmine G, Christina, Whitney, Jamie, Brittany

*None of these girls have nicknames yet. Please stay tuned.*

WHO WENT HOME:

I honestly have no idea. I’m a terrible recap-er. But at this point does it really mater??

FINAL FOUR:

Rachel

Vanessa

Liz Stalker Vegas Girl From The Past!

No Clue Yet

*Conclusions:

1. This is going to be a very sexual season. Brace yourselves because these girls (and Nick) reaaalllllyyy like sex. Really. Nick even wants to give America a “happy ending”…need I say more?

2. I can’t wait to see what Liz Stalker Vegas Girl From The Past! says and does. Plus how Nick will handle all that jazz. And by “jazz” I mean “Vegas-Crazy.”

3. Why is Chris Soules still appearing and giving advice? Wasn’t he the terrible one? Correct me if I’m wrong.

4. Maybe the reason I started out disliking Nick so much is because our dating lives look eerily similar. Hmm.

It’s going to be one hell of a season and I’m so relieved that I get to watch it from the comfort of my couch, portable phone charger and wine glass in hand. : )

Until next time Bach Nation,

phot0: e! online / gif: giphy

yes this list includes closer | best music of 2016 link up!

I’m so excited to be linking up with Helene In Between for a 2016 recap. Today, I’m looking back on what were my favorite and what I consider to be the best songs of the last year. I’m over the “Worst Of” lists so you won’t find those picks here. No one has time for that negativity!

Taking into consideration the playlists I made, the songs that bring up good memories throughout the year, what was popular on Spotify and my Top Songs of the Year on Spotify is how I came up with this list.

*Disclaimers & Conclusions*

I didn’t take music too seriously this year. If I liked an artist or song, then I listened to them. That being said, this was my year to listen to really fun, upbeat, party music including a lot of mainstream, dance-y EDM and hip-hop/rap. So not as much indie/hipster/chill music as I’ve listened to in the past.
I finally discovered what was so appealing about Drake.
And I stopped hating Kanye once and for all. What a time to be alive.

So here we go!

*SINGLES*

EDM –

Roses – The Chainsmokers – Even though this song came out in July 2015, everyone included it on their end of the year/best of lists. It’s honestly one of my favorite songs of all time and it never fails to put me in the best mood.

Closer – The Chainsmokers – yeah, I know everyone thinks it’s overplayed at this point BUT IT IS SO GOOD. If you’ve been following the duo on Snapchat, they’ve been sharing tiny snipets of this track since JANUARY. And if you were like me, you were dying for the full song. Whether you had been eagerly anticipating this one or it was love at first listen – we can all agree this was truly the song of Summer 2016.

Inside Out – The Chainsmokers – easily the most underrated song by these guys.

All We Know / Don’t Let Me Down – The Chainsmokers

My Way – Calvin Harris – I feel like this was a little bit of TSwift shade. And I liked it.

This Is What You Came For – Calvin Harris – I don’t know if it was because I was ready for a new Calvin track or because I finally saw him at OMNIA. Either way…here we are.

Is It Love – [3LAU] – I still love this song – another of my summer soundtracks by one of my favorite producers. I can’t wait to see what he brings out this year!

Take My Breath Away – Alesso – After seeing him live last year, I concluded he is very underrated.

Heading Home – Gryffin – I LOVE GRYFFIN!! So hard. In fact, my #2 most listened to song of 2016 was a remix he did that came out in 2015 – (Desire by Years & Years) – check it out!!

Anywhere – Dillon Francis

Fakin It (featuring Ofelia K) – Kaskade – If you know me, you know that Kaskade is my absolute fave. He can honestly do no wrong in my book.

Only – Kaskade x Lipless Remix – RY X / US – Extended Mix – Kaskade & CID

Sweet Memories – CID & Kaskade – I love CID. He was on Kaskade’s track “Us” and ever since then I’ve been a fan. I’m excited to see what he creates next.

Talk – DJ Snake – I didn’t realize how much I listened to this track in 2016 (#3 on my Top Songs of the Year). This was a good song to transition us into Summer.

Middle / Let Me Love You – DJ Snake

Pillow Fight – Galantis – A late drop date in 2016. I wasn’t really a fan of the music they released during the last year, but this song was different. I think it represents the heart and soul of this duo. It feels like a nod to my fave and very first track of theirs – “You”.

Summer – Marshmello – When this song comes out in January and all you want is a summer pool party and a Patron Tequila Sunrise 😑🤔

In The Name of Love – Martin Garrix & Bebe Rexha

Light – San Holo – I don’t really know where this one came from, but it struck me immediately. It’s lighthearted (lol) and feel good.

All I Ever Wanted – Michael Brun featuring Louie – I know…it’s from the XOXO soundtrack, but it’s so CATCHY. And my friends made it into the movie, so that’s cool too.

Higher – Jauz

Say It (featuring Tove Lo) – Flume

The Right Song – Tiesto – Tiesto has a way of producing music that makes you want to dance and party til sunrise in Vegas 😏

Rap/Hip-Hop –

Black Beatles – Rae Sremmurd – I was sooo late to this phenom. I started listening to the song right before Thanksgiving – enough that it ended up in my Top Songs of the Year. I’m still obsessed and can already rap 87% of the track. Stay tuned for my mixtape this summer. Kidding…maybe.

Young N***a Living – A$AP Ferg, A$AP Ant, A$AP Twelvyy – This gem caught my ear from A$AP Mob’s “Cozy Tapes: Vol. 1 Friends” released on Halloween. Such a good track.

One Dance – Drake

Pop Style – Drake – the version before he took off Jay and Ye.

Too Good – Drake & Rihanna

Kiss It Better – Rihanna – one of the only tracks on her new album that I enjoyed.

Pop –

Love Myself – Hailee Steinfeld – This was my anthem during the first half of the year and instantly puts me in a better mood.

Ain’t My Fault – Zara Larsson – A good party song for when you stopped giving all the fucks. 👍🏻😁

Send My Love (To Your New Lover) / When We Were Young / Water Under The Bridge – Adele – so much better than that Hello song.

Make Me… – Britney Spears featuring G-Eazy – I’ve always been a Britney girl and G-Eazy is one of my fave rappers.

Into You – Ariana Grande – Sometimes your spin teacher plays this song and it just hits you where it’s supposed to. This song always gets me going.

Side to Side – Ariana Grande & Nicki Minaj

Alarm – Anne-Marie

All In My Head (Flex) – Fifth Harmony – Try not to sing along. I dare you.

Misc –

Waste A Moment – Kings of Leon – I love Kings of Leon. Their best songs create a sense of crave-able longing while giving us sunshine whiskey and the feeling of California soul. This track is a perfect example of that vibe.

Carpet / Capsize – FRENSHIP – I saw them live in November and they were so much fun. I’m excited by what this group has released so far and I can’t wait to see what the future brings for them.

Lost Weekend – Pete Yorn – I always listen to this song when I drive to California. This tune just sounds like summer and adventures.

All We Ever Knew – The Head and The Heart

Choke – King Charles – A random track I found and instantly connected with one day.

Ophelia – The Lumineers – This band has a special place in my heart. I love that they bring a vintage feel and a unique sound to the charts that seem to sound very similar these days.

Friends – Francis and The Lights featuring Bon Iver & Kanye West]

*ALBUMS*

i like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it – The 1975 – Honestly, so in love with this album. I was pleasantly surprised by this band’s second full-length project. Fave Tracks – A Change of Heart, She’s American, Please Be Naked, Somebody Else, Loving Someone, i like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it, The Sound, This Must Be My Dream, Paris, UGH!

The Life of Pablo – Kanye West – Ugh. I have always had such a love/hate relationship with Yeezus. And to start this year, I was not loving him so much. But then this ablum was released and my love for him has officially been solidified. I’m a firm believer in the fact that you can’t hate someone or something that you understand, and I finally understand him. Fave Tracks – Ultralight Beam, Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1, Famous, Freestyle 4, Waves, Real Friends, Wolves, Facts (Charlie Heat Version), Fade

Coloring Book – Chance The Rapper – Another one of my summer soundtracks. Chance is going places and I’m thrilled to be along for the journey. Fave Tracks – All We Got, No Problem, Summer Friends, Same Drugs, Smoke Break, Blessings

Passion, Pain & Demon Slayin’ – Kid Cudi – I see you Kid Cudi comin’ in hot with that late December release SIDE EYE. This whole album sounds like deep, dark, velvet opium-less opium den sex. It’s fantastic…trust me. Fave Tracks – Swim In The Light, Releaser, By Design, All In, ILLusions, Does It, Distant Fantasies, Surfin’

When It’s Dark Out – G-Eazy – Even though the album was released late last year, this was G-Eazy’s year to blow up. The world got to see what a lot of us have been loving for years and I’m definitely not mad about it. Fave Tracks – Random, One Of Them, Drifting, Of All Things, Calm Down, You Got Me, Everything Will Be OK

California – blink-182 – So stoked to finally have some new blink, even if Tom DeLonge is really never coming back. Regardless, I’m forever a blink-lover and did I mention they’re nominated for a Grammy? This album is the perfect mix of upbeat pop-punk, old school blink reminiscent and even includes one of those sad yet satisfying songs. Oh blink, I have missed you. Fave Tracks – Cynical, Bored To Death, She’s Out Of Her Mind, No Future, Home Is Such A Lonely Place, Left Alone, San Diego, California

Joanne – Lady Gaga – Oh. My. Hell. I absolutely love Lady Gaga and I knew there was something special about her from those “Just Dance” days. She has an amazing voice and if you’ve listened to her album with Tony Bennett, you know she’s talented. This album was a perfect progression and a refreshing look at her as a singer/songwriter. Fave Tracks – Diamond Heart, A-YO, Joanne, John Wayne, Dancin’ In Circles, Million Reasons, Sinner’s Prayer, Hey Girl

The Weight of These Wings – Miranda Lambert – This girl is amazing and this album was something I didn’t even know I needed. I appreciate the fact that she knows she’s not perfect. I love that she turns her mistakes into beautiful life lessons through song. This album was overall refreshing. Fave Tracks – Runnin’ Just In Case, Highway Vagabond, Pink Sunglasses, Getaway Driver, Vice, Good Ol’ Days, Keeper of the Flame, I’ve Got Wheels

So that was my 2016 in music. There were definitely some gems that I will continue to play this year (because we ain’t ever getting older)!

Here is a link to my full Top Songs of 2016 on Spotify!

What music made up the soundtrack to your 2016? I’m always looking for new music and would love suggestions!