Kristen’s Playlist

Whistle While You Work

Snow White’s Dwarfs may have been the first to enjoy music while working but I think we put a new meaning to that last week.   We celebrated the launch of a new platform with food, drinks and a Van Halen cover band belting out our favorite songs.  They were very impressive, even in spandex.  One of my coworkers snapped some photos after Michael Anthony, original bassist with Van Halen, joined the band to relive the magic.

Check out the Atomic Punks as Van Halen here at flickr:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/80216545@N00/sets/72157594345999355/

Jamie Cullum: Live at Wiltern

I think the best part of going to a concert is wondering what the playlist will be. Will he sing “All at Sea” or “Frontin” - maybe he’ll have a new song to share. The wondering is half the anticipation.

Tommy and I got to the Wiltern with plenty of time to think about this and check out the opening act, Josh Ritter. Awesome vocals…funny dance skillz but great sense of humor.  I may buy his album. Anyway, when Jamie came on, I just couldn’t take my eyes off this twentysomething petite English man. He seems so fragile but he glides up to his silky black piano and starts rockin to “Get Your Way.”

His show was mesmerizing. He had a turn table on the right side of the piano, inside the belly of the piano. He actually scratched while playing a few songs! Amazing. Then he’d play percussion on the sides of his piano. I knew the beat but couldn’t think of the song, then he whispered into the mic, “I’m bringing sexy back” the crowd went wild. I love it when musicians break off and cover other songs. It’s like getting the prize in a Cracker Jack box.

Jamie doesn’t come to LA too often and he plays in small venues, so look out for his name and get tickets to the next show. Trust me, you’ll be entertained.

What was your favorite surprise song covered by a band at a concert? Tell me about it in comments…

Birthday Day Songs

What is your favorite birthday song? There is the very traditional “Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you” and then there is the Beatles, “You say its your birthday!”  Are there others? I think I need a new fun one. Maybe you know one?

I want to dedicate it to all my Libra friends and family:

To Carey, my amazing sister- Happy Birthday!

To Ann, my favorite and best aunt- Happy Birthday!

To Lauren, friends don’t get more cool than you! Happy Birthday!

Leave your birthday shout out here.