Rock & Roll Library (RockLibrary.com)

1and1.com - Internet hosting and customer service at its worst

2011-04-15T11:39:00.035-05:00

I don't typically use this forum for this type of thing but 1and1 Internet (http://www.1and1.com/) is so clearly engaged in predatory consumer practices that I feel a buyer beware story is warranted.

After being a customer of 1and1.com for more than a year, on February 2, 2011 I called and cancelled one of our servers ($109.99/month). On February 8, 2011 I received an email stating that the credit card on file had expired and needed to be updated. On February 10, 2011 I called and spoke to Daniel who instructed me how to update the expiration date which I did at that time. I then cancelled our second server with Daniel ($209.99/monthly) to close our account with 1and1.

Daniel informed me that each server would be prorated on a monthly basis through the respective cancelation date and that a credit would be issued to my credit card for the balance. Despite my request for the credit amount, he could not provide it because he was unsure of the exact amount which would be calculated by “the system”.

I received an email confirmation that the server had been cancelled on February 10. My credit card shows a charge of $209.99 on January 29 (back dated when the expiration was updated? – I am unsure). On February 22 my credit card was credited $101.61 by 1and1. We had 2 servers on 1 account so I believed that this was the prorated credit and our account was closed.

I received no further communication from 1and1 (email, phone call or regular mail).

On April 11 I received a collection call for a supposed unpaid balance with 1and1 for $128.94. ($109.99 + $18.95 collection fee) I informed him that it was a mistake and immediately called 1and1 billing which was closed so I called back the next day. On April 12, 2011 I spoke to Michelle who informed me that the $109.99 charge plus an additional $18.95 collection charge was correct and that 1and1 had attempted to contact me with no success forcing them to send my account to collections and assess the $18.95 fee that I needed to pay directly to the collection agency in full amount. She was not able to tell me how they had attempted to contact me or explain how the collection agency was able to simply call me directly via the number provided by 1and1. I asked to speak with a supervisor but none were available. I was transferred to a supervisor’s voicemail and left a message but did not receive a callback despite Michelle’s assurances.

I emailed complaints@1and1.com with details on Tuesday and received this response today: Friday, April 15, 2011 10:50 AM

Dear Anne Fitzpatrick, Thank you for contacting us. I am sorry for this inconvenience. However, we had tried to contact you numerous times regarding this billing issues. We had sent a number of emails to the email address on the account. We tried to freeze your account to get your attention. The issue persisted for long enough to the point that we had sent the account to , the collection agency. Before the account entered collections we had a far broader authority to assist you; however, once an account is in collections we are not allowed by our systems to access your invoices in any administrative way. We similarly cannot remove an account from collections unless it is proven that it is wholly the fault of 1and1 that the package was continued. Please resolve the issue with the collection agency and they will remove you from any list that they have. Thank you. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us. -- Sincerely, Dana Cook Customer Service 1&1 Internet

I promptly responded Fri 4/15/2011 11:07 AM:

Dana Cook, I would like documentation of how you attempted to contact me. I received a payment reminder from email from 1and1 on February 8th and a cancelation confirmation on 10th at my still current email address (that this email is being sent from) but no additional emails. I also received today's email. I check my junk mail folder multiple times per day and received nothing from you.

I never received any telephone message from you but the collection agency reached me immediately further demonstrating to me that you never attempted to contact me.

Though you have my mailing address on file, you refuse to send regular mail notices because you are a "green" company. In addition, my credit card could have simply been billed as you have the updated information on file.

I can only think that this is an attempt to gouge what you believe is a helpless consumer that you refuse to deal with directly by not only billing erroneous charges but also an $18.95 collection fee.

I never received a call back after leaving a message for a supervisor on Tuesday and being told by your representative Michelle that I would likely hear back in 24 hours.

I do not believe that 1and1 is working in good faith to help resolve this issue.

Please call me at XXX-XXX-XXXX. Anne

I received this reply Fri 4/15/2011 11:17 AM

Dear Anne Fitzpatrick, Thank you for contacting us. I know my previous response might not have been the response that you were looking for. However, this is the response we need to give. This is a situation where the account was left delinquent for some time and that caused our automated system to pass this account to collections. Should you pay within 30 days, they will take you off of any list that they have. Despite these actions not grasping your attention, these were honest efforts to contact you. As an internet company, e-mail is our preferred use of contact. Furthermore, when the account is left delinquent, we suspend the service. We have given ample time and notice for this account. There is nothing we can do at this point. I am sorry. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us. -- Sincerely, Dana Cook Customer Service 1&1 Internet

I promptly responded again Fri 4/15/2011 11:28 AM

I will be contacting the Massachusetts Attorney General and Better Business Bureau in your area. Clearly you made no attempt to contact me as the collection agency was able to reach me immediately and I have also received and responded promptly to all of your emails.

I am extremely disappointed in 1and1 and your consumer abuse. We were a paying customer for 15 months and yet when we attempted to cancel our account you immediately took advantage of the fact that we had ever done business with you and now you refuse to address the problem but again refusing to call and speak with me directly.

The situation is extremely clear; you never billed me for the second server AND you issued me a $101.61 credit on February 22 which more than covered the 12 days we had one server and 4 days that we had the second in the billing cycle that began January 30.

I am disputing your charges and claims of failing to respond to your attempts to collect the debt which I believe were non-existent because you could have simply billed my credit card on file. Anne Fitzpatrick

I received this reply Fri 4/15/2011 11:37 AM

Dear Anne Fitzpatrick, Thank you for contacting us. Again, we apologize for any confusion caused here. Unfortunately, non-payment is not a form of cancellation. This service will perpetually renew unless proactively canceled. More than an industry standard, this is a very important convenience for our existing and prospective customers. Customers cannot be forced to contact us every time they need a service renewal. This would cause unwanted website downtime, loss of resources, and an assortment of other issues for a large majority of our customers. From a customer service standpoint, we want to do all that we can. We do understand that perhaps this service was somehow forgot about, incorrectly canceled, or there was some kind of misunderstanding along the way. We do sympathize with your plight in the current situation. This is why we pointed out that, should you pay the collection agency within the 30-day mark, they will remove you from any credit-affecting list. We send out letters to remind customers of their outstanding balance through the mail, send out numerous emails, and we make phone calls as well. Should you resolve this matter with the collection agency, as a one-time courtesy, we will refund the $18.95 late fee that was added to your account prior to sending the balance to collections. Please resolve this matter with . Thank you. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us. -- Sincerely, Dana Cook Customer Service 1&1 Internet

My reply Fri 4/15/2011 1:26 PM:

Dana, My email and your records clearly state that I called in and cancelled one server on February 2 and the second server on February 10. Your representatives Daniel and Michelle confirmed these cancellation dates repeatedly for me.

1and1 did not bill me for the $109.99 server then sent it to collections; how is that MY FAULT? You have my active credit card on file, there is no way for me to take further action to pay you, all you had to do was bill my card. It is as simple as that.

I am seeking an $9.86 credit from 1and1 for being overcharged in the prorated billing for 2 servers.

I have filed a complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office and will be following up with the Better Business Bureau if this is not resolved quickly.

Anne

Did I mention that I received ALL of these communications the email that they have on file and that the collection agency reached me at the number 1and1 gave them?

I wish that I didn't have to waste this time over $128 but this has the potential to also damage my credit and it's wrong. It's incredibly disheartening to see such consumer abuse by an ENORMOUS web hosting company and what consumers must sometimes go through to protect their credit.

I'll post updates as they come in.

Also, I'm not alone

http://forums.cnet.com/7723-6616_102-139251.html

http://www.complaintsboard.com/byurl/1and1.com.html
http://www.webhostingjury.com/reviews/1and1

Anne

Update from 1and1 received Fri 4/15/2011 1:47 PM

Dear Anne Fitzpatrick,
Thank you for contacting us.

We can confirm that the servers were successfully canceled in February, however the outstanding balance reflects non-payment of an invoice that had generated prior to cancellation: Invoice #XXXX - dated Jan. 29, 2011. As you are the administrator and owner of the account, it would be your responsibility to cancel any aspect of it prior to the renewal dates. Charges that generate prior to cancellation would be the responsibility of the account holder.

To further resolve this matter please call XXX-XXX-XXXX and the administrator will transfer the call to the assigned collector. Please mention the following #: XXXXXX as it will reference your account at . The collector will then be able to take the payment right over the phone, or make payment arrangements.

Before the account entered collections we had a far broader authority to assist you; however, once an account is in collections we are not allowed by our systems to access your invoices in any administrative way. We similarly cannot remove an account from collections unless it is proven that it is wholly the fault of 1and1 that the package was continued.
Please resolve the issue with the collection agency and they will remove you from any list that they have.

Thank you.

If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

--
Sincerely,
Dana Cook
Customer Service
1&1 Internet

So they agree that I cancelled both servers in February. They successfully billed my credit card for one server but didn't bother to bill me for the second. They issued the same credit card a credit on Feb. 22 for more than $100 yet 6 weeks later I'm in collections for nonpayment? The collection agency was easily able to contact me and I have received numerous emails from them today demonstrating that they could have easily contacted me yet they stand by their arguement that it was my fault that they didn't bill the credit card on file.

It gets more and more ridiculous with every email.

1and1 Internet is a horrible consumer predator.

1and1's shocking Better Business Bureau listing in Philadelphia.

BBB processed a total of 807 complaints about 1and1 in the last 36 months - 382 in the last 12 months.

1and1.com BBB listing Philadelphia 807 complaints

I am now speaking with the Pennsylvania Attorny General's Office.

Mr. Love and Justice

2008-10-21T18:17:00.008-05:00

Mr. Love and Justice is performing at the Somerville Theatre tonight and tomorrow and I can't wait!

For those unfamiliar with the Bard of Barking (Essex, England, UK that is) Billy Bragg is a renown songwriter known for writing about both his political activism and romantic (mis)adventures. His latest disc does well to capture both in his unique style of post punk adult contemporary pop.

Ok, I just made that category up but if you've ever heard Billy sing you'd know that he's in a class all by himself.\

Thoughts on tonight's show later.

Anne

DNC Rocks Denver

2008-08-28T23:14:00.015-05:00

The Democratic National Convention rocked Denver for four days from August 24-28, 2008 and many of our favorite recording artists flocked to the city to support their favorite causes and candidates.

Monday night, Rock the Vote hosted "The Ballot Bash" at the Opera House with Jakob Dylan, N*E*R*D and Fallout Boy. Mariah Carey's new hubby Nick Cannon DJ'd the afterparty.

will.i.am previously released two star-studded music video tributes to Obama and he, Fergie and the rest of the Black Eyed Peas performed at one of the many benefits held in Denver during the convention. Other performances during the four day Demfest included: Kanye West, Jamie Foxx, Ashanti, John Legend, Sheryl Crow and Stevie Wonder. Also in attendance at the convention was RRL friend and original Song Lesson Contest artist Melissa Etheridge, True Colors tour founder Cyndi Lauper and new mom of twins Jennifer Lopez.

Democratic candidate Barack Obama requested Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson sing the National Anthem at Invesco Field on the final night of the convention before his acceptance speech.

But when all was said and done and history had been made on the 45th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech and the first black nominee of a major party had accepted the nomination for President of the United States of America in front of a crowd of 80,000 and Barack Obama's family joined him on stage as did Vice-Presidential candidate Joe Biden and family, it was Country artist Brooks and Dunn's "Only in America" that filled Invesco Field.

"Only in America"
Sun coming up over New York City
School bus driver in a traffic jam
Starin' at the faces in her rearview mirror
Looking at the promise of the Promised Land
One kid dreams of fame and fortune
One kid helps pay the rent
One could end up going to prison
One just might be president

Only in America
Dreaming in red, white and blue
Only in America
Where we dream as big as we want to
We all get a chance
Everybody gets to dance
Only in America

Sun going down on an LA freeway
Newlyweds in the back of a limousine
A welder's son and a banker's daughter
All they want is everything
She came out here to be an actress
He was the singer in a band
They just might go back to Oklahoma
And talk about the stars they could have been

Only in America
Where we dream in red, white and blue
Only in America
Where we dream as big as we want to
We all get a chance
Everybody gets to dance
Only in America

Yeah only in America
Where we dream in red, white and blue
Yeah we dream as big as we want to

-Lyrics by Brooks and Dunn

Obama just texted me, he picked Joe Biden

2008-08-23T02:21:00.005-05:00

I just got a text message from Obama's campaign letting me know that the Democratic Presidential nominee selected Joe Biden the Senior Senator from Delaware as his running mate.

I thought that it was very interesting that Obama chose this medium to announce his VP but I was disappointed when more than 3 hours ago I read at multiple sources online that Biden had been selected. After keeping it a secret this long, the Obama campaign should have been better about keeping a lid on it or sending out the text earlier.

What I really want to know is what's his theme song going to be?

More later,

Anne

PS
McCain doesn't use computers much less send out texts so I guess I'll learn who wins the GOP Veepstakes the old fashioned way...CNN.com.

Jon Bon Jovi's Philadelpha Soul Are Arena Football Champions!!

2008-07-29T01:34:00.008-05:00

Congratulations are in order for Jon Bon Jovi, the majority co-owner of the Philadelphia Soul (Arena Football League).

In just five seasons, Bon Jovi's team managed to take the top prize in the indoor football league's 22nd championship "ArenaBowl" held at the New Orleans Arena this past Sunday (7/2708) by defeating the defending champion San Jose SaberCats, 59-56.

Nicely done!

More soon,

Anne

Dr. Randy Pausch - A Tigger to the End

2008-07-29T00:41:00.007-05:00

In August 2007, at age 46 and married with three children, Carnegie Mellon Computer Science Professor Randy Pausch was given the earth shattering news that he had six months to live.

Ever the optimist, a month later, on September 18, he gave his last lecture entitled, "Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams," to a packed McConomy Auditorium at Carnegie Mellon University.

The inspirational presentation discusses his lessons learned and offers advice on how to achieve goals both personal and professional. It also poses the simple yet life defining question, "Are you a Tigger or an Eeyore?"

The lecture has been viewed online more than five million times and turned into the best selling book, The Last Lecture.

If you've never seen the last lecture I strongly encourage you to watch it now; it is truly inspiring.

Randy Pausch passed away while surrounded by his family at his home in Chesapeake, Virginia in the early morning of July 25, 2008 ending his battle with pancreatic cancer.

RIP Randy and peace to your family.

More soon, I promise.

Anne

George Carlin I Miss You Already...

2008-06-23T14:44:00.006-05:00

George Carlin was my first favorite comedian. Host of the first episode of Saturday Night Live (and more than 100 subsequent appearances), author of "Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television", three books and enough standup to fill several more volumes, he inspired me expect real answers to the question "Why?" and to not be satisified until I got one.

As Rufus, Bill and Ted's guide from the future who gave them a time traveling phonebooth he gave a nod to a new generation.

There was never one more honest, intelligent, insightful and filthy.

RIP Wise Sage.

Anne

Boston Celtics: World Champions Again

2008-06-17T20:23:00.008-05:00

The Boston Celtics defeated the LA Lakers tonight to win their 17th NBA Championship.

Woo hoo!!

Anne

Gore Endorses Obama

2008-06-16T22:48:00.007-05:00

Al Gore announced his endorsement of Democratic Presidential Nominee Barrack Obama tonight.

Would Al Gore be Obama's Secretary of State?

Anne

The American People Lose a Champion in Tim Russert

2008-06-13T15:20:00.004-05:00

RIP

Honorable Newsman

I haven't felt this bad since Peter Jennings died...The American public has lost another champion.

PEACE,

Anne

David Cook Wins American Idol!!

2008-05-21T20:56:00.005-05:00

George Michael gave an unbelievable performance demonstrating that he's ready for his first US tour in 17 years but it was David Cook's night when Ryan Seacrest announced that he was the new American Idol.

More Later,

Anne

American Idol needs an infusion of THIS!

2008-05-15T16:08:00.010-05:00

So I started watching Tuesday's American Idol and didn't get passed Archuleta's first performance before I turned it off. It just isn't interesting at this point (Cook vs. Archuleta was predicted WEEKS ago) but I still have it on my hard drive so I may still watch it yet but for a dose of something REALLY exciting I give to you previews from the "LOST" season finale.

There is also an interview from THR.com at the end with LOST co-creator and executive producer Damon Lindelof.

WARNING: Spolier Alert!!

Very much looking forward to the season finale and the subsequent 34 episodes which will finish out the series.

More later,

Anne

American Idol results Final 3 Castro finally sent packing

2008-05-07T23:03:00.008-05:00

The group song was Steely Dan's "Reelin' in the Years" and the band sounded great. I haven't written about Ricky Miner and the band much but they have done an unbelievable job this season.

During the call in segment, 14 year old Sarah asked all the Wannabes what was the biggest challenge that they have had to overcome and Archuleta said, "I dunno. I haven't been thinking about it lately, sorry."

But Castro stole the show when he said, "Uh, just the brain being dead." Classic, truly classic and I give him a lot of credit for being honest.

After Maroon 5 performed, Ryan Seacrest chatted with Adam Levine and asked if he had any advice for the Wannabes to which he replied, "Get ready to work, baby. It's going to be really tough, and you're going to have to work a lot and then you're going to get jaded and you're going to say god I hate this, but you'll really love it so just remember that."

Jason Castro and Syesha Mercado made up the bottom two and after 51 million votes, Castro was finally sent packing, which he told Seacrest that he had already done.

Before his final performance Seacrest told Casto that he seemed relieved to which he replied, "There are three songs next week, I don't know what I would have done."

America has regained some credibility with this cast off and Castro showed more personality and likeability tonight than he had in the entire rest of the season.

More later,

Anne

American Idol Final 4 Castro Implodes

2008-05-07T01:34:00.007-05:00

The American Idol Tour may be coming to a city near you so if you’re interested in seeing the Top 9 Wannabes and the 7th American Idol, tickets go on sale May 17.

This week was Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Week and I was shocked at how bad it was. I didn’t start writing about Idol until it was down to the Top 10 because I figured that it would be interesting to chronicle the rise of these performers rather than the wackiness of tryouts but I am bored silly.

This will be short because the show just wasn’t very good. Jason Castro was horrible again, Syesha Mercado was good but not as good as many of the ladies from past seasons, David Cook seemed distracted and lacked intensity and David Archuleta was the best, which is a clear indicator that the show has lost at least a step.

Several weeks ago Simon said that the contestants were boring and lacked personality. Their song choices clearly reflect that and I think that is the reason for the ratings slide.

What is Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Week anyway? Ryan Seacrest didn’t give much of an explanation so we really don’t know what pool of songs the Idol Wannabes had to choose from; was it songs written by inductees, performed by inductees or the Hall’s 500 most influential songs that he mentioned? We just don’t know.

When song choice is everything being clear about the song pool is critical.

David Cook “Hungry Like the Wolf” Duran Duran 1982 & “Baba O’Reilly” The Who 1971
David Cook looked kind of bored during his first song and honestly the lights were more exciting than him but with this luke warm final four it was probably good enough to keep him around but certainly not up to his usual standard.

Cook’s second song was much better and I would have liked to hear more but he still seemed a bit detached or distracted. Unless he’s blindsided by a “Daughtry” he should stick around for the finals.

Syesha Mercado “Proud Mary” & “A Change Is Gonna Come” Sam Cooke 1965
Syesha Mercado’s first song included a sultry opening, full Tina Turner choreography and a shimmery gold dress (that didn’t hang very well). It was a good performance but a little too close to Tina Turner’s version without her unique performing ability for my taste.

Thinking back to Melinda Doolittle and Lakisha Jones both would have knocked this girl out but given the strength of this final four Syesha should be back.

Her second song “A Change Is Gonna Come” started with a big note and finished with another. It was a great performance and Syesha showed that can be Broadway and more.

Jason Castro “I Shot the Sheriff” Bob Marley & The Wailers & Bob Dylan “Mr. Tambourine Man”
Jason Castro seemed baked in his interview when talking about Bob Marley and offered a completely whack performance of the Marley classic "I Shot the Sheriff". The arrangement was strange and it just came off like over inflated karaoke.

His second song was even worse. His only accompaniment was the acoustic guitar he played and my immediate reaction was “Oh my god, total implosion!” when he began humming because he forgot the words. We're down to the final four out of more than 50,000 people and this fool forgot the words.

And Hey Mr. Tambourine Man play a song for me, cause I can’t remember the words and two songs are just too much for me…

Paula’s “It is what it is” comment was utterly astute but Simon Cowell’s “Jason, I’d pack your suitcase.” comment captured my hopes and dreams to a T.

David Archuleta “Stand By Me” Ben E. King 1960 & “Love Me Tender” Elvis Presley
In his interview Archuleta said that he sings “Stand By Me” in his room to himself. *weirdo* Does this kid not have any friends?

His vocal was very clean and but he looked scared when he sang “All you beautiful girls, stand by me” and the line seemed like a farce; otherwise it was a very strong performance.

He didn’t know Elvis’ “Love Me Tender” but he wanted to sing a ballad. It was a solid performance and Archuleta was definitely the best this week.

I like David Cook and Syesha Mercado but this group just isn’t as exciting as past contenders and I’m finding it challenging to not fast forward through everything but the songs (ok even some of the songs too) and even more difficult to think of something intelligent to say about each of the remaining Wannabes.

It’s supposed to be getting better not worse but I guess that’s why the ratings are slipping.

Paula’s gaff last week was the most exciting thing to happen on Idol in weeks and there is no way they’ll replace her; she’s drama, comic relief and the Wannabe’s biggest cheerleader (pun intended).

People, PLEASE! A little more excitement or at least better song choices!

Results tomorrow and if Castro doesn’t go home the American public will lose all credibility.

Anne

American Idol Final Five Results

2008-04-30T22:44:00.010-05:00

Syesha Mercado and Brooke White made up the bottom two tonight and after Neil Diamond did his best impression of Will Ferrell doing Neil Diamond, Ryan Seacrest delivered the bad news which immediately caused Brooke to burst into tears.

Making it to the Final Five on American Idol is a tremendous accomplishment and Brooke has nothing to be ashamed of; she grew considerably as an artist throughout the season and has an even shot at a career in music.

Neil Diamond is an icon I have loved since I was a kid. His songs dot the soundtrack of my life and I wish he had sang one of his hits but I understand that isn't how it works; his new record Home Before Dark drops May 6 and he needs to sing one of his new songs to promote the new album to the American Idol audience.

Dolly Parton did the same thing when she sang her new song "Jesus & Gravity" and it seemed to undermine her stature as an iconic songwriter because she sang an unknown song aimed at a niche audience. I felt the same way about Diamond.

Idol would be better off getting mentors based on catalog only not catalog with an album dropping during the season.

Seacrest took the opportunity to defend Paula Abdul by saying that this morning he had read what was written about her comments last night and that none of it was true. He did not elaborate any further.

I didn’t think that she seemed inebriated but she certainly was confused when she offered a review of a song Castro was yet to sing last night.

She appeared on the radio with Ryan Seacrest today and explained the goof by offering two explanations; she saw Castro's second song "September Morn" in dress rehearsal and when making notes during the live broadcast she wrote notes for David Cook on the same page as Jason Castro and meant second person not second song.

She should have stuck with the first explanation because then she only would be on the hook for offering feedback from the dress rehearsal not a convoluted double answer where the second one doesn't really make sense given that she continued to speak to Castro not Cook.

Either way, it was funny in the moment but today seems totally blown of out proportion.

More later,

Anne

Morrissey sporting American Idol T-shirt on Craig Ferguson?

2008-04-30T00:47:00.011-05:00

Was Morrissey sporting a black American Idol T-shirt under his buttoned up sport coat on the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson tonight? Weird, maybe he wants to mentor next season which would be amazing and truly groundbreaking.

He performed "Irish Blood, English Heart" (originally released in 2004) from his Greatest Hits record.

"I've been dreaming of the time
When the English are sick to death of Labour and Tories
And spit upon the name of Oliver Cromwell
And denounce this royal line that still salutes him
And will salute him forever"

His voice still sounds great and he's definitely still got it.

Anne

Found the video

Neil Diamond week on American Idol

2008-04-29T21:29:00.015-05:00

Neil Diamond is an American singer/songwriter icon that has sold over 120 million records and had over a dozen top 10 hits. His 26th studio album Home Before Dark drops May 6, 2008.

This is the first week when each of the Idol Wannabes sing two songs. Though Diamond was friendly and engaging, the workshops were not nearly as interesting as last week with Lord Andrew Lloyd Weber.

Jason Castro (“Forever in Blue Jeans” & “September Morn”)
In the workshop with Neil Diamond Castro didn’t know the words and brought the wrong lyric sheet but Diamond was kind enough to say that he thought the Idol Troubadour would do well once on stage.

Diamond was being FAR too kind. Castro played guitar on “Forever in Blue Jeans” to kick off the evening but unfortunately the performance sounded like it belonged in a train station.

He was boring, didn’t connect with the lyrics, and truthfully “I’d much rather be…” listening to anyone else sing this.

Regardless of what he did to Blue Jeans I’m sure that he seduced his fanbase with “September Morn” as they have probably never heard Diamond’s original and truly romantic version.

When confronted by the judges with his boring performances, he said that he started to choke right before he started to sing his second song "September Morn". He seems unaffected by the whole process and not too concerned about winning which is good because he shouldn't even come close.

Castro's plight was only made worse by the fact that David Cook followed him.

David Cook (“I’m Alive” & “All I Really Need is You”)
Cook picked two virtually unheard of Diamond tunes and rock them both.

He played electric guitar on “I’m Alive” and I wondered if he was thinking of his brother Adam (he still rocks the AC on his guitar).

Right off the bat Cook made “All I Really Need is You” his own. It was great. He was great. He hit some beautiful notes and it could be a single right now. He did everything that Castro didn’t do by reinterpreting, updating and connecting with the song.

Paula said, “I feel like I’m already looking at the next American Idol” and I couldn’t agree more.

Brooke White (“I’m a Believer” & “I Am, I Said”)
I was SO disappointed to learn that Brooke White would be singing, “I’m a Believer”. I love that song. Davy Jones offered a brilliant vocal more than 40 years ago and Smashmouth did an awesome (Awesome speech Popey –W.) job of updating it for “Shrek” in 2001.

She played acoustic guitar and I felt like I was at girl scout camp. Ok, I've never been to Girl Scouts but I can imagine...

Simon said that she was a “Nightmare” and I completely agree.

She played piano on “I Am, I Said” and the vocal was ok but it was really the song that carried her through. We’ll have to see if http://www.votefortheworst.com/ keeps her in the game and (fingers crossed) Castro goes home or if her time will finally be up.

David Archuleta (“Sweet Caroline” & Coming to America”)
As you know Rock & Roll Library is based in Boston which means we have a VERY STRONG attachment to “Sweet Caroline”. It’s played at Fenway Park during the middle of the eighth inning of Red Sox games and in November 2007 Diamond revealed that his inspiration was none other than Caroline Kennedy the daughter of Boston native and 35th President John F. Kennedy.

Unfortunately, tonight Archuleta sang it. He did not start strong and I felt like I couldn’t even hear him over the band at times; he did look a little more comfortable than usual.

He didn’t connect with the song or the audience on the most obvious lines, “hands touching hands, reaching out touching me, touching you…” he didn’t even reach for one hand in the audience. He would have been beaten and thrown out of Fenway for this rendition. Verdict: SuperLame

“Coming to America” was very karaoke. He can hit big notes but in more of a Broadway style than rock or pop. The judges loved it but I thought that it was Broadway and that was last week.

Syesha Mercado (“Hello Again” & “Thank the Lord for the Nighttime”)
“Hello Again” was not her best performance but it was still good. Unfortunately it lacked the power punch that performers need to deliver at this stage of the competition.

“Thank the Lord for the Nighttime” was her second song and it reminded me of Aretha Franklin singing “Respect” to Matt Murphy at the diner in the Blues Brothers movie. She was very good but American Idol isn't Broadway and given her frequent presence in the bottom three Syesha could be in serious trouble.

I love Syesha’s hair but this week she straightened it and I didn’t care for it.

Whack moment of the night:
After everyone performed their first song host Ryan Seacrest went to the judges for quick impressions before the break and Paula Abdul critiqued both of Jason Castro’s songs…Ryan said, “Your seeing the future baby.” She did seem sober if totally confused.

The recap montage made it perfectly clear that Jason Castro and Brooke White are in a class by themselves; last. Syesha Mercado has found her niche in musicals and the finals should be Archuleta vs. Cook with Cook crushing the 17 year old; but you never know what will happen with Idol voting.

First or fifth David Cook will go the way of Kelli Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Chris Daughtry racking up millions of sales and tons of accolades.

More Later,
Anne

Madden NFL 09 coverboy

2008-04-26T09:50:00.009-05:00

I guess that they couldn't get anyone to take on the curse* this year. Word is that LaDanian Tomlinson has turned the Madden NFL cover down repeatedly but for the 20th edition of the uber popular EA Sports videogame they tapped retiree Brett Favre.

Beyond his single greatest crime of beating the Patriots in Super Bowl XXXI I really enjoyed watching him throughout his career. He was tough as nails and exciting as hell week in an week out. Congrats Favre, you're the first retired player to land on the Madden cover.

I have a great idea, create a new game NFL Alltime, and allow gamers to draft against each other from a lineup of alltime greats. I would love to play Brady, Rice and Emmitt vs. Montana, Moss, and Barry Sanders (actually older players would be even better). EA Sports, make a nice donation to the Rock & Roll Library and the idea's yours. I actually like this for all videogame sports.

Pre-Draft coverage has started.

I must bid you adieu.

Anne

*The Madden Curse befalls NFL players who grace the cover of John Madden's football videogame and ensures an injury or otherwise inexplicable implosion of said player during the season.

Merry Christmas Football Fans!!

2008-04-26T09:15:00.005-05:00

I know that I don't usually blog in the morning but I'm far too excited to sleep because Pre -Draft coverage begins at 11AM on the NFL Network and the Dolphins go on the clock at 3PM.

Whether we take or trade it, I'm very excited about the 7th pick which belongs to my New England Patriots. Linebackers, Corners and high value players...

I love having a top ten pick from San Francisco especially with other AFC East teams (Dolphins & Jets) earning their top 10 pick with their records (the NFL drafts in reverse order of the previous season records - i.e. worst is first).

Full report after the draft ends tomorrow.

So EXCITED!!

Anne

Carly Smithson goes home on Idol

2008-04-23T20:59:00.004-05:00

The bottom was made up of only two: Carly Smithson and Syesha Mercado and after both performed it was announced that after 38 million votes Carly was eliminated. Unbelievable that the Troubadour survived another week.

Leona Lewis, Simon Cowell's British discovery who is currently the largest selling artist in the world sang an awesome "Bleeding Love." It's easy to see why this girl is huge.

Neil Diamond next week.

More when this bad taste goes away.

Anne

Lord Andrew Lloyd Weber & Your Top 6

2008-04-23T09:46:00.024-05:00

Lord Andrew Lloyd Weber mentored the Idol Wannabes this week which provided quite a challenge for the less talented who made it into the Top 6.

Syesha Mercado "One Rock & Roll Too Many" (Starlight Express)
Syesha started the evening off with an excellent song choice and a sexy, evocative performance that showed off her personality and opened the doors of Broadway for her. It should be enough for her to stick around and ultimately land her a career onstage.

Brooke White “You Must Love Me" (Evita)
It has become painful to watch this lovely blonde train wreck. With a double shot of repertoires that were too big for her (Mariah Carey & Lord Andrew) Brooke made everything worse when she stopped and restarted her song several bars in.

Her time should be up this week if http://www.votefortheworst.com/ doesn’t save her.

Jason Castro “Memories" (Cats)
Clearly the Idol Troubadour was going to have difficulty this week as Lord Andrew doesn't write songs for single key singers but his selection of one of the Broadway master's most well known power ballads sealed our horrible fate.

Castro didn't help himself in his interview when he added that he didn't know the song or that it was sung by a cat. It was quite a battle for worst this week and without the support of http://www.votefortheworst.com/ Casto may be finished tonight.

David Archuleta "Think of Me" (The Phantom of the Opera)
There is no disputing that David Archuleta can sing; I continue to question if he's got what it takes to be a successful mainstream artist.

Carly Smithson "Superstar" (Jesus Christ Superstar)
During her workshop with Lord Andrew and I consider it amazing that these young singers got a private workshop with this music icon, Lord Andrew steered Carly to a song that he thought better captured her personality and a great suggestion it was.

Carly rocks. She has a big voice, beautiful tone, excellent control, poise, style and she sells herself as an artist. She should be back.

A few weeks back I mentioned Carly Hennessy's (Smithson's maiden name) major label album Ultimate High which is now on sale at Amazon.com if you want it, I suggest that you get it now before it gets pulled.

David Cook "The Music of the Night" (The Phantom of the Opera)
Cook gave an inspired performance of what Lord Andrew referred to as "the most sensual, the most sexy song I've ever written." Cook's voice is strong, he demonstrates excellent control and he had no problem taking on one of the most iconic stage roles ever written, the Phantom or as Randy said, "Another hot molten hot lava bomb tonight!"

I've also mentioned in previous posts that David Cook's album Analog Heart is available at Amazon.com. After reaching #1 on Today's Top MP3 Albums at Amazon (beating out last week's mentor Mariah Carey) all Cook's tracks and album have been pulled from the online retailer. See an image of the page here. Note all that remain are the 79 customer reviews giving the record 5 stars.

On a separate note, though she sounded great during her duet with Chris Brown two weeks ago, last year's Idol Jordin Sparks is enduring some pretty horrible medical issues with regard to her vocal cords and has been forced to cancel as the opening act of Alicia Keys tour.

Best wishes for a speedy recovery Jordin.

Results tonight,

Anne

Earth Day 2008

2008-04-22T11:05:00.013-05:00

Leave nothing but footprints...and try not to leave those.

Learn how to reduce your footprint.

Anne

Patriots Day - Boston Sports

2008-04-21T21:07:00.015-05:00

The third Monday in April is the civic holiday Patriots Day in Massachusetts which marks the battle of Lexington and Concord, the first battle of the American Revolutionary War.

It's also the day of the Boston Marathon and since 1959 the Boston Red Sox have scheduled a morning home game so its end would coincide with the elite runners finishing the Boston Marathon which passes only feet from Fenway Park in Kenmore Square.

I couldn't follow all of the changes that the BAA (Boston Athletic Association) instituted with the start including sending elite women half an hour before elite men but today was the closest finish in women's history with Dire Tune beating out Alevtina Biktimirova by three seconds after Biktimirova led most of the race. It was riveting for the last 6 miles.

Marathoners know that they run twenty miles to sprint six more and at twenty miles the ladies were neck and neck which is where they stayed all the way up to 200 yards from the finish line in Copley Square when Tune's kick won the day.

Robert Cheruiyot won his fourth Boston Marathon in six years with a time of 2:07:45 thirty-one seconds behind his course record 2:07:14 but impressive given that he ran the last several miles without a challenger in sight.

The Dropkick Murphys reopened NUF CED MCGREEVY'S 3RD BASE SALOON at 911 BOYLSTON Street Boston, MA today for a special Marathon Monday Sneek Preview - Grand opening May 2008.

Sox completed a sweep of the Texas Rangers with an 8-3 win and advance to 14-7.

Celtics crushed the Hawks 104-81 last night in their playoff opener.

Better luck next year Bruins, we'd love to see you join the party; let's see some offseason moves that show a commitment to winning.

Overall a great day in Boston sports...but I'm dreaming of the 7th pick and what the master will choose.

More later,

Anne

Jerry Seinfeld Live Stand up

2008-04-21T20:43:00.006-05:00

I couldn't pass up the opportunity to see Jerry Seinfeld Friday night in Boston.

65 minutes without profanity; Cosby is the only other comic I've seen do that and both shows were great.

Seinfeld did dabble in the taboo by tackling a topic that I consider long overdue for comedic attention: *69. He posed the excellent question, "How did this get by an entire company?"

As an encore he took questions and when asked if there'll be a Seinfeld reunion he said that it was a possiblility but that all four careers (Seinfeld, Jason Alexander, Julia Loius Dreyfuss, Michael Richards) would have to tank. When asked if he'd do another sitcom he replied, "I'm old, lazy and rich."

Tom Papa offered a great opening set.

More later,

Anne

Jenna Jameson + The View = WTF?

2008-04-17T20:05:00.002-05:00

This morning Jenna Jameson was interviewed by all five View co-hosts: Barbara Walters, Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, Sherrie Shepard and Elisabeth Hasselblech.

Jenna was on to talk about her effort to cross over to mainstream movies and promote her latest flick a horror/comedy called Zombie Strippers.

Beyond acting, Jameson is a saavy business woman who created multiple companies to monetize herself as a commodity in the adult industry and made millions doing it.

Jameson did a good job of holding her own against the ladies while maintaining friendly decorum but it was clear that the panel didn’t know what to make of the porn star.

I say WTF? This is the wackiest guest/show combo of the week.

Zombie Strippers Movie Trailer (MPAA approved for all audiences)

Enjoy,

Anne

Rock & Roll Library Music Archive, Trivia, This Day in Music and Photo Gallery links added

2008-04-16T22:44:00.005-05:00

I added some interesting links to RockLibrary.com on the right.

You can now check out Music Trivia, This Day in Music, our Photo Gallery and Eric Clapton's Rock & Roll Library Music Archive directly from this page and of course the opportunity to make a donation which I always appreciate.

Feedback is always welcome.

More later,

Anne

Not even VotefortheWorst.com can save Kristi Lee Cook

2008-04-16T22:21:00.002-05:00

Mariah Carey was the guest mentor this week on American Idol which coincides with the release of her new album E=MC2 which dropped yesterday. Earlier this year Mariah Carey surpassed Elvis Presley for most #1 singles by a solo artist with 18.

Tonight Carey gave a great performance of “Bye Bye” from her new album. She was a great role model for the Idol Wannabes this week who is technically proficient and connects powerfully with her songs and audience. The women struggled while the men seemed to do well with her songs this week.

Kristi Lee Cook, Brooke White and Syesha Mercado made up the bottom three and unfortunately for Kristi Lee Cook it was time to pay up for mangling the Beatles “Eight Days a Week” oh so many weeks ago.

Kristi Lee has a good shot at making it in Nashville where she is likely headed.

I’ll let you know whom www.votefortheworst.com decides to support next week but I’m thinking Brooke White.

More Later,

Anne

What happens when you mix Andy Samberg without Gnarles Barkley?

2008-04-16T01:34:00.007-05:00

“Daquiri Girl” by Clementine and boy did I suffer because of it.

Andy must have read my previous post specifically forbidding future installments of Laser Cats so instead he created the worst SNL Digital Short music video in history.

Andy, if your musical guest doesn’t show or cancels on you at the last moment just make Laser Cats 4, I know that you already wrote the script.

Thankfully I don't have to go into my usual detail because it's available here. Note the scrolling text that explains Samberg’s plight.

And to think I used to enjoy daquiris.

I’m going to go have a nightmare about this.

More later,
Anne

Mariah Carey week on American Idol

2008-04-16T01:17:00.003-05:00

Mariah Carey was the guest mentor this week and she seemed to enjoy her time with each Idol Wannabe. Her new album E=MC2 dropped today and she’ll perform on the results show tomorrow night.

David Archuleta “When You Believe” (Mariah Carey Whitney Houston)
Josh Groban, I mean David Archuleta was on point and on pitch again tonight. He connected with the camera and the song with this emotional performance.

Randy took this week off from not being mad at anyone, but Mariah picked up the torch as she told Archuleta, “If you wanted to go up in to your falsetto for two seconds I wouldn’t be mad at you.” He did and I’m not mad at him either; it was perfect.

This kid reminds me of Clay Aiken and though not one of my favorites he’ll be back next week.

Carly Smithson “Without You” (Bad Finger, Mariah Carey)
Smithson has a great voice and she demonstrated amazing control on this Bad Finger classic. She started softly and allowed the song to build and swell in a natural way that showed off a real and emotional connection. For the most part, she nailed the soft parts and hit clean notes all the way through.

She should be back but as we saw last week at this stage of the game anything can happen and after landing in the bottom three more than once she needs every vote that she can get.

Syesha Mercado “Vanishing” (Mariah Carey)
Again this week Mercado chose an extremely difficult song and sang it very well. She worked out the soft parts that plagued her in early weeks and knocked the big notes out of the park. She was smoldering in gold and her performance matched her outfit. If this truly is a singing competition, she should be back.

Brooke White “Hero” (Mariah Carey)
It was clearly a tough week for Brooke White not only because her voice isn’t strong enough for this repertoire but because she missed her sister’s wedding on Saturday. She played piano and unfortunately it started poorly and never recovered; White never connected with the sensitive ballad and seemed to know it as she rushed through the song.

Kristi Lee Cook “Forever” (Mariah Carey)
Kristi Lee said that her goal this week was to connect with this song and she did just that. She hit several big notes and though not even close to the best of the night, it may have been have been her best performance yet as she chose well with a country version of “Forever”.

It wasn’t great but it was very good and with the help of www.votefortheworst.com she has a good shot at sticking around.

David Cook “Always Be My Baby” (Mariah Carey)
HOT! Mariah said she thought that his version was pretty and haunting but I thought that it was hot and sultry. He looked like a seasoned rocker in his necktie and vest and commanded the stage with aplomb.

“It was original, it was daring, it stood out by a mile.” Simon Cowell said of Cook’s performance and I agree 100%.

Cook then shed a few tears and I couldn’t help but wonder if it was Simon’s kind words or something that Ryan Seacrest didn’t mention: David’s brother Adam Cook, a lawyer from Terra Haute, Indiana who is fighting his second bout with brain cancer was in the audience after special arrangements were made by Cook supporters to bring him to California.

Best wishes for good health Adam.

Jason Castro “I Don’t Want to Cry” (Mariah Carey)
The AI Troubador went Latin this week with a successful version of “I Don’t Want to Cry” that was evocative and original. I see his niche; I just don’t see it as that of an American Idol.

This kid has gotten tremendous mileage out of his hair, teeth and expressive eyebrows and they should carry him another week.

Simon keeps saying that this is a singing competition but I don’t believe him. The name of the show is the American Idol not American Singer and they are looking for a complete package that goes far beyond singing to include personality, looks, and style.

If it really were a singing competition they wouldn’t let America vote; instead they would let Simon, a singing teacher and a critic decide but they’re looking to see which artist America responds to the most. Why can’t they just admit it?

If all’s right in the world White will get to go home and watch her sister’s wedding video tonight.

More Later,

Anne

Papal visit to US

2008-04-15T19:44:00.005-05:00

Pope Benedict XVI landed at Andrew's Air Force Base today and will visit Washington, DC and New York during his five day visit to the US.

Shame on you Benedict XVI for not coming to Boston to face abuse victims; I am appalled (but not surprised).

Anne

Apparently rockin an ascot two weeks in a row is the kiss of death

2008-04-15T19:38:00.004-05:00

Carly Smithson, Syesha Mercado and Michael Johns comprised the bottom three and in a stunning turn of events, Michael Johns was booted off American Idol.

Smithson repeatedly motioned that she believed that she would be the Idol wannabe to go but it was John's turn to sing after receiving the worst news one can receive on the top rated show.

Johns performed a great copy cat version of Aerosmith's "Dream On" and should land with a record deal of his own.

More later.

Anne

Inspiration Week on American Idol

2008-04-09T00:01:00.006-05:00

It’s Inspiration Week on American Idol. You can count on an extra night for a special episode, Idol Gives Back, tonight at 8PM EST and an effort to raise $100 million dollars for charity.

Michael Johns “Dream On” Aerosmith
Johns kicked off the evening with good solid rock vocals until the end when at one point it sounded like he was screaming; and unfortunately he’s trying to rock an ascot for the second week in a row and that’s just kinda unforgivable but he’ll be back.

Syesha Mercado “I Believe” Fantasia
A good song for her big voice but again she struggled a little with the soft parts and though she was yelling at one point, she hit a very big note at the end. Overall it was a good performance and should be enough for her to stick around.

Jason Castro “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” (music by Harold Arlen and lyrics by E.Y. Harbur, arrangement by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole)
Once again Castro gives a nice performance that does not seem to challenge him in any way. He’s still a wandering troubadour without a care in the world that demonstrates little depth. Overall, his performances are generic and forgettable and if tonight's performance stands out it's because of Kamakawiwoʻole's unique arrangement (featuring a ukulele) but Castro will be back next week.

Kristi Lee Cook “Anyway” (Martina McBride)
Kristi Lee Cook looked a little bit sultry in her performance of “Anyway” and though I can’t believe that she’s stuck around this long she was solid tonight and if we’re still voting based on merit deserves to be back next week.

David Cook “Innocent” Our Lady Peace
David Cook introduced the masses to Our Lady Peace via “Innocent” and was successful but not great. He revealed a message in his left palm to the camera that said “give back” to encourage viewers to donate to Idol Gives Back an effort to raise $100 million dollars.

Carly Smithson “The Show Must Go On” Queen
Carly showed off her powerful voice and vocal range but didn’t quite connect with this overly dramatic and somewhat dark performance. She likely landed in the bottom three.

David Archuleta “Angels” (Robbie Williams)
Did David Archuleta look comfortable onstage tonight? I thought so too and that might be because at age twelve, Archuleta was the Junior Vocal Champion on Star Search 2. He performed on the syndicated show more than ten times during the 2003 season before winning the $100,000 grand prize.

Tonight’s performance by Archuleta was nice and showed off the beautiful tone in his voice but but it wasn’t very exciting. Archuleta needs to learn to trust his instincts and his voice but at 17 and at this stage of the American Idol competition it may be difficult for him to pull off.

I also read several reports about his father Jeff Archuleta this week but I’ll leave that to your own research <Link to Google search Jeff Archuleta>

Brooke White “You’ve Got a Friend” (Carole King)
Brooke was boring tonight and didn’t do herself any favors with a mellow and uninspired version of a classic that Simon described as “nice.”

Randy Jackson once again came out with his best review (bestowed last week on soon to be booted Ramiele Malubay) “I wasn’t like jumpin up and down but I wasn’t mad at you either.” We’ll have to wait and see if this will become the kiss of death for another Idol wannabe.

More later,

Anne

Red Sox Opening Day Music & Rings

2008-04-08T18:02:00.007-05:00

The World Champion Boston Red Sox hosted their home opener at Fenway Park today. On hand for the raising of the Championship Pennant were members of the Boston Pops who provided an elegant backdrop for the ceremony. Led by James Orent, the ensemble played while the players were introduced and received their World Series Championship Ring from Red Sox owners and management John Henry, Larry Lucchino, Tom Werner and Theo Epstein.

The ensemble performed a wide array of classics including “When the Saint Go Marching In”, took on the Dropkick Murphys for closer Jonathan Papelbon’s entrance, The Standells “Dirty Water” for heavy hitter first baseman David Ortiz and the National Anthem.

The Red Sox front office continues to show off its World Class by inviting formerly vilified first baseman Bill Buckner to throw out the first pitch to Dwight Evans. Buckner was cheered in Boston for the first time in more than 20 years. With more than 20 years gone and two shiny new Championship Rings (2004, 2007) Boston is free to let the past go and accept and appreciate Bill Buckner for his years of quality play.

Red Sox Instructor Johnny Pesky called out the traditional opening “Play ball!” to officially start the game and season at Fenway Park. Red Sox starting pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka faced off against Detroit's Kenny Rogers (no not that Kenny) on a beautiful spring day in Boston.

Hometown hero and Aerosmith front man Steven Tyler gave a decent performance of “God Bless America” during the 7th inning stretch dedicating his performance to “our boys in Iraq.”

In the top half of the 8th inning Neil Diamond appeared in a special video and sang “Sweet Caroline,” a Fenway staple. On the video, the performance was followed by Neil Diamond accepting an invitation from Tom Werner to play at Fenway this summer. The show is booked and Neil Diamond will perform at Fenway Park on Saturday, August 23rd, 2008 as part of his 2008 World Tour.

The Sox shut out the Detroit Tigers 5-0 with Matsuzaka going 6 2/3s for the win and Youkilis having a big day offensively with 3 hits and 2 RBIs. Kenny Rogers got the loss for the Tigers. The Red Sox are now 4-4 and the Detroit Tigers are 0-7.

Idol later.

Anne

After I specifically said no more Laser Cats!

2008-04-06T20:32:00.003-05:00

If you tuned in to SNL last night you saw a new SNL digital short Laser Cats, a subject I cited in my recent post about Jimmy Kimmel and Sarah Silverman's new videos where I specifically said no more Laser Cats!

Dear Andy Samberg and Bill Hader,
You are capable of so much more. Please step up your game and take advantage of one of the most unique opportunities in broadcast today.

In case you weren't sure, thousands of talented but undiscovered writers would kill for the opportunity to create a 3 minute digital short for SNL.

Embrace your opportunity and show us something great.

Anne

That time I didn't meet Morgan Spurlock

2008-04-04T19:32:00.008-05:00

I went to an advance screening of Morgan Spurlock's new documentary Where in the World is Osama bin Laden? It chronicles Spurlock's attempt to track down and capture the most elusive terrorist on earth to make the world safe for his soon to be born child. Spurlock was supposed to be on hand for a post screening Q&A but it was announced before the screening that he would not be attending. That was disappointing because I find Spurlock's work completely acceptable on the small screen and went specifically to see him.

The film began with requisite background and set up and I liked it all the way up to the point when I thought, wait a minute this has got to be over soon...he hasn't even gone to Pakistan yet and even I know that OBL's probably in Pakistan. When he arrives at a border crossing in an area that looks like he should start finding some real leads he is deterred by a sign that says no foreigners allow. Spurlock has an epiphany about making the world safe for his child vs. safe for all children. He concludes that capturing OBL isn't the cure all that he was looking for and that risking himself any further would be senseless so he goes home.

I understand that he was about to become a new dad but I expect more from Spurlock. This let's all hug it out ending was unrealistic and irresponsible in a way. If finding Osama isn't important then why make a movie about it? I thought the film was going to be about how much money the US has spent looking for him; a point not even considered by Spurlock.

I was especially disappointed because I really enjoyed Super Size Me, Spurlock's documentary chronicling his odyssey of eating only McDonald's for 30 days and what it did to his health. I loved that he stuck with his plan and completely compromised his health. I respected that.

I also liked his reality TV show 30 Days where regular people spent 30 days living in someone else's shoes. One of the most surreal stories was the middle aged American man who went to India and applied for and after passing an English fluency test, won his same job that had been outsourced months before.

Anyway I wanted to ask him if he ever lost those last pounds after Super Size Me and which 30 Days did he find the most interesting?

Sorry that I didn't get to meet you Morgan, another time perhaps.

More later,

Anne

The Night James Brown Saved Boston

2008-04-04T17:04:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow night at 9PM (Saturday 4/5/08) "The Night James Brown Saved Boston" directed by David Leaf premieres on VH1. If you can't tune in I highly encourage everyone to record it. The film unfolds in Boston the day after Martin Luther King was assassinated when Brown was booked at the Boston Garden.

The film debuted at WGBH in Boston on March 31. I found out late and it was already full :(

Ramiele Goes Home on Idol

2008-04-04T12:25:00.008-05:00

Again no surprises on Idol this week. Ramiele Malubay, Brooke White and Kristi Lee Cook were in the bottom three and Ramiele went home. (Note to self: zoning out during a performance and having to rewind is a very bad sign.)

Cook offered this explanation of his hospital visit after last night's show: "The whole thing kind of got blown out of proportion. I have high blood pressure and it spiked and so they took me there as a precaution; but I'm cool, I'm not going anywhere."

Dolly performed a new song "Jesus & Gravity" (Jesus lifts her up and gravity hold her down); not exactly my cup of tea but I admire her energy and positive outlook. She's an icon and a nice person, I wish this week on Idol had been better for her.

The winners of America's Next Great American Band (American Idol for bands) the Clark Brothers sang "This Little Light of Mine" which was a weird mix of a gospel song with country guitar stylings and something like punk vocals (or maybe he was just yelling). Don't worry, Next Great American Band never really found an audience and I don't expect it back.

Next week's theme is Inspirational songs.

Dolly Parton week on American Idol

2008-04-02T14:01:00.008-05:00

It's Dolly Parton week on American Idol and someone sang what may be her best song “I Will Always Love You” popularized by Whitney Houston in the film The Bodyguard with Kevin Costner but no one sang “9 to 5” and I can’t tell if that was a good thing. I love Dolly Parton; she is a legend and a sweetheart of a lady but unfortunately this week on American Idol just wasn’t very exciting. I don’t know if the contestants just didn’t connect with her music or if they just chose conservatively from her 3,000 song repertoire but here they are in order:

Brooke White “Jolene”
She comes off nice, sweet, pretty, has great hair and overall a wholesome appearance but her performance wasn’t very inspired and I think that she would have done better without the guitar. She didn’t demonstrate much range or reach and once again stayed well inside her confirmed comfort zone. It’s not that I dislike her it’s just that she’s not doing anything performance wise that is setting her apart. The clock is ticking for Brooke.

David Cook “Little Sparrow”
In a word: awesome. Cook arranged this one himself and he did an incredible job. It wasn’t quite as good as some of his other performances (“Billie Jean” Chris Cornell arrangement or “Hello” his own arrangement) but it was stellar and he continues to lead the way.

On a side note, David Cook was taken to the hospital after the show for an undisclosed reason but he was released and back at the hotel last night. I expect that we’ll hear details tonight.

Ramiele Malubay “Do I Ever Cross Your Mind?”
I spaced out in the middle of her performance and my attention wasn’t recaptured until I heard Randy Jackson saying, “I wasn’t jumping up and down but I wasn’t mad at you either.” Randy Jackson finding new and wackier ways to say it was ok but nothing special. No one should underestimate this man’s entertainment value. After replaying his comment 3-4 times I rewound and forced myself to pay attention to Ramiele’s performance and ultimately agreed with Randy. Ramiele is a good performer and at 20 she’s got a decent shot at a career in music but she doesn’t stand out in this crowd.

Jason Castro “Traveling Along”
The AI Troubadour was back at it with a peppy but uninspired little ditty that showed no vocal reach, nothing new and at this point he has just grown tiresome. Unfortunately the dreaded one will stick around for another week.

Carly Smithson “Here You Come Again”
It was a really beautiful performance but could have been better. She did smile this week and you could hear it in her voice; there’s just a different quality that comes through the song, hard to describe but real. Carly should be back next week.

David Archuleta “Smokey Mountain Memories”
I’m having a hard time getting past all the hoopla surrounding Archuleta. He’s seventeen, cute, bashful and has a killer tone to his voice; but his song choices and style are putting him in a category with Josh Groban and I don’t think that style fits an American Idol but he’ll be back next week.

Kristi Lee Cook “Coat of Many Colors”
Not challenging, safe, boring, uninteresting and even though country is her thing it was only ok. This was likely her swan song.

Syesha Mercado “I Will Always Love You”
Strong but some pitch problems, once again we know that she can belt but on the softer parts her flaws are quite apparent. Overall it was a good performance of a very difficult song.

Michael Johns “It’s All Wrong But It’s Alright”
Johns brought Rock and Soul to the stage when he ripped this one up. It was a very good performance and should be more than enough for him to stick around. Check out the video of his performance below.

Another side note: Johns fronted Film, an Atlanta based group that was showcased for labels but not signed. Johns left Film and joined The Rising which was subsequently signed to Maverick Records. Before being dropped by Maverick, The Rising recorded Future Unknown which was scheduled to be released in September 2003 but did not drop until recently when it appeared on Itunes. Looks like Carly isn't the only one with label experience.

Overall the show was not as exciting this week which is unfortunate because Dolly is a great artist and highly accomplished songwriter.

Results tonight.

Anne

Grammy First Kanye West

2008-03-31T16:56:00.010-05:00

Another item I wanted to blog about but time got away from me is the Grammy Award show February 10, 2008 in Los Angeles. Happy 50th Grammy.

Overall the show was great. A lot of acts kicked ass including 67 year old Herbie Hancock who also took home Album of the Year for River: The Joni Letters beating out Kanye West's Graduation and Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black, the Foo Fighters' Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace and Vince Gill’s These Days.

But the item that I’ve most wanted to blog about is Kanye’s acceptance speech. Sorry NARAS, you did a great job on this show but Kanye upstaged you here and this was the most interesting moment of the night for me; but I’ll plug the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS), the org that actually awards the Grammys.

Best Rap Album was awarded by Chris Brown, Solange and Akon at which time a first in award show history occurred…

One minute into Kanye West’s acceptance speech for Graduation the orchestra began to play in an attempt to cue his exit. But Kanye being Kanye and not yet done expressing himself called out the orchestra and expressed his disbelief that they were trying to cue his exit. As the band continued to play, he began speaking about his mother who passed away on November 10, 2007 from complications of recent cosmetic surgery.

He then suggested that it would be in good taste for them to stop and they DID! I was stunned. Kanye definitely was staring someone down in the orchestra pit but in all my years of award show viewing I have NEVER seen any orchestra stop for anyone. When he finally concluded his speech 53 seconds later the orchestra began again.

All I could think of was Frank Sinatra at the 1994 Grammys when Bono introduced him as a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. A few minutes into his speech the orchestra swelled and the Chairman of the Board was ushered off stage.

In that moment I was sad for old blue eyes as you could tell that there was so much that he wanted to express but Bono may have unintentionally upstaged the Rat Packer with his prepared eloquence that Sinatra just could not match on the fly. I later heard that Sinatra was relieved that the music started because he didn’t have a closing for his speech but the memory is with me still.

Following shortly thereafter at the 1994 Grammys was Billy Joel performing “River of Dreams.” Now I’ve always loved Billy Joel for his songwriting and piano skills (he is a far more accomplished piano player than most realize), but that night I loved him for another reason. There’s a pause in the middle of “River of Dreams” and at that point in the song Billy Joel stopped, took his hands off the keyboard, looked at his watch and taunted the producers by saying “Valuable advertising time going by, valuable advertising time going by, dollars, dollars, dollars” and then sat silently as the crowd roared for him and Sinatra.

Vindication, I wasn’t the only one horrified. This was the best immediate protest I have ever seen. Joel did finally finish the song after a 23 second pause and since then hundreds have been cut off by orchestras at award shows around the globe, it’s a necessary evil if we don’t want to grow old watching the 3-4 hour extravaganzas but Kanye was a first.

I wish that they had just let Kanye speak; he had something to say that the audience (in the theatre and on TV) wanted to hear. Thankfully I doubt that this will start a trend; I don’t think many stars will have the wherewithal to stand up to the music director like Kanye did or have as compelling a reason.

Kanye West Grammy acceptance speech for Best Rap Album Graduation

“It definitely good to be home here at the Grammys. You know, we snuck in four years ago, four or five years ago and now we basically made this our new place of residence. and um, when working on a hip-hop album in a state with the music game. They say like, you know you can't sell records. A lot of people said Hip Hop is dead not just Nas but you know a lot of people just like the art form wasnt poppin' like that anymore

You know, I wanted to cross the genres and show people how we could still express ourselves with something fresh and new that's what hip-hop has always been about, coming out with new sounds and stuff. I always tell Common like man, you gotta time the album out better and can’t drop em the same year as me.
You gotta…This is my award. Um, I wanna

(music starts)
And for Marc Ronson and Amy Winehouse Come on, you gonna play music on me?
For Marc Ronson, Amy Winehouse if I don’t get to get up here for album of the year you deserve it just as much as me, I deserve it too.

And just to say something about my mother.
I appreciate all the support I appreciate all the prayers

It would be in good taste to stop the music then.
(music stops)
(applause)

I appreciate everything and I know you really proud of me, right now
And I know you wouldn't want me to stop
And you want me, to be the number one artist in the world
And Mama all Ima do is keep makin you proud
We run this.”

- Kanye West

See the video here
http://www.prefixmag.com/media/kanye-west/grammys-acceptance-speech-video/17208/

Idol tomorrow,

Anne

New oldest recording identified 1860

2008-03-28T00:52:00.007-05:00

I find this kind of thing very interesting...It would make a great news story for RockLibrary.

In 1860 a scientist in France figured out how to create a visual interpretation of sound and because a patent was filed in Paris a researcher was able to find and examine the images that just happened to be dated.

On March 1, 2008 David Giovanni of First Sounds, a US collaborative aimed at finding and preserving lost early recordings, received a package from the archive at the French Academy of Sciences in Paris that contained a sound recording made in France in 1860, 17 years before Thomas Edison recorded 'Mary had a little lamb'.

The 10-second recording is of a person singing a snippet of a French folk song, 'Au clair de la lune', and was recorded on April 9, 1860 by Parisian inventor Édouard-Léon Scott de Martinville using piece of equipment he called a "phonautograph" that scratched sound waves onto a sheet of paper blackened by the soot of an oil lamp.

Using advanced imaging technology scientists at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in Berkeley, California were able to create digital images that captured “grooves” that could then be played by a computer with a virtual stylus.

Interestingly enough the recording was never meant to be played only studied visually as an interpretation of sound.

The recording and findings are being presented by to the Association for Recorded Sound Collections conference at Stanford University this week by the man who found it David Giovanni.

Listen to the oldest known recording.

More tomorrow,
Anne

American Idol Chikezie sent home 9 remain

2008-03-26T23:22:00.004-05:00

No surprises tonight, Chikezie, Syesha Mercardo and Jason Castro were the bottom three and Chikezie was sent home.

Chris Cornell called Ryan Seacrest and Lee Greenwood contacted American Idol to each say that they liked the performances of their songs (David Cook and Kristi Lee Cook respectively).

More later,

Anne

American Idol Top 10

2008-03-26T02:39:00.011-05:00

David Cook was amazing tonight. Chris Cornell’s version of Michael Jackson’s “Billy Jean” had an even likelihood of bombing horrifically or being even more powerful than Cook’s performance of Lionel Richie’s “Hello” a few weeks ago. Cook masterfully worked the arrangement and stole the show and possibly the competition with his performance. Here’s the video, turn it up if you can.

Michael Johns also had an incredibly strong performance but he may have peaked. I've been waiting for him to sing “We Will Rock You/We Are the Champions” as it so clearly suits him and I don’t know what he can perform that will be better but I am interested in seeing if he can out do himself. He also gave an outstanding performance of "Bohemian Rhapsody" during Hollywood Week so maybe he'd like to be Queen's lead singer but I believe that they turned down RockStar: Queen.

Syesha Mercado (Stephanie Mills “If I Were Your Woman”) was much improved this week. She was much better at hitting the softer notes as she’s got a big voice and can really belt but has demonstrated some control issues in previous performances. If she keeps it up she’ll do well and could have a career in music.

Carly Smithson (Bonnie Tyler “Total Eclipse of the Heart”) wasn't in top form tonight but she's a performer through and through. She’s poised onstage, has excellent vocal control and should advance unless the American Idol popularity contest is now in full swing (she was in the bottom three last week). As a side note for those of you who haven’t heard, Carly was signed to MCA under her maiden name Carly Hennessy for four years and released the album Ultimate High in 2001. Despite two million dollars in label support the record bombed and Hennesy was released from MCA. She tried out for season 5 of American Idol and made it to Hollywood but because her visa had expired she was unable to compete. She has since married and resides in San Diego, California. Clearly all this experience seems contributing to her success.

David Archuleta (Jeff Pescetto “You’re the Voice”) started poorly and though he carried it off, he's becoming boring because of his song choices; he may be too immature to navigate a win (he's 17). He offered a brilliant “Imagine” but that was three weeks ago and he’s failing to connect with both the audience and another knockout performance.

Case in point, compare tonight's performances by David Cook and David Archuleta; there's no contest, David Cook wins by a mile. Additionally Cook’s “Hello” was a brilliant interpretation of Lionel Richie’s classic and his performance of “Eleanor Rigby” two weeks ago was also a standout. Week in and week out it’s Cook who’s leading the way.

Still around:
Kristy Lee Cook (Lee Greenwood “God Bless the USA”) Much better this week with a completely unexpected but successful song choice but she should go soon for destroying The Beatles “Eight Days a Week”. I may never recover from that performance.

Ramiele Malubay (Heart “Alone”) She gave a good performance but not great.

Jason Castro (Sting “Fragile”) I’m really not impressed. Yes he’s got pretty eyes, a big toothy smile and comes off bashful and a little goofy but he consistently shows limited range and style. His performance of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” was touching but he reminds me more of a wandering troubadour than an American Idol.

Brooke White (The Police “Every Breath You Take”) She’s middle of the pack but stumbled this week after bombing in yellow last week with “Here Comes the Sun”. She’s got a lot of potential but really needs to step it up to get back into this competition.

Chikezie (Luther Vandross “If Only for One Night”) This may be his swan song.

Rock is reborn, on American Idol!?! Who ever would have thought?

More later,
Anne

comedy music videos

2008-03-26T00:55:00.012-05:00

I'm suffering from non-blogging remorse. There have been several items that I thought would be great for the blog but time constraints made it impossible for me to post.

So I'm going to start writing some shorter, more informal entries; look for them soon.

Oh, here’s one now…

For anyone who missed it, Sarah Silverman + Matt Damon. It's true she announced it on Jimmy Kimmel Live (1/31/08), check out the video below (aired on national television but may be Not Suitable for Work or the faint of heart).

And Sarah Silverman’s boyfriend, late night talkshow host Jimmy Kimmel + Ben Affleck. It's true, they announced it on his show (2/24/08), check out their response video to Sarah & Matt below (aired on national television but may be Not Suitable for Work or the faint of heart).

As you know I’m frequently up late and I caught both debuts live on Kimmel. Silverman introduced the clip that she said she had made for his birthday in October but because of the writer's strike she had to wait to show it to him until the show resumed production in February.

Affleck stopped by after the Oscars to debut his and Kimmel's response.

Both nights I was on the floor. These are the best comedy music videos I have seen since SNL digital shorts "Lazy Sunday” AKA Chronic-WHAT?-chles of Narnia and the Emmy award winning D**k in a Box".

I am beyond impressed with the work that comedians are doing with audio, video and music production. Saturday Night Live has regularly been featuring SNL digital shorts for a couple of years and I expect it will grow as long as Lorne doesn’t approve Laser Cats, Laser Cats 2 or the undoubtedly “in the works” Laser Cats 3. More comedy music videos please!

More soon,

Anne

Patriot Nation

2008-02-04T00:15:00.000-05:00

For six unbelievable months we watched and reveled in the glory of the Patriots. Their perfect perfectness on display week after week, destroying every opponent in their path, finding ways to win, delivering joy to us and all of Patriot Nation.

Today they faltered. In the biggest game of the year, they faltered and lost to Tom Coughlin's NY Giants. Crushing. I feel for my battered brothers who gave of themselves so valiantly but ultimately fell short of our common goal.

But I love them still and will hold my head high as a proud Patriot fan as I look forward to the 7th pick in the NFL draft.

I can ask no more of the Patriots than to play their hearts out every time they step on the field and I believe that they did that.

I am at peace. I hope the same for you.

Congratulations Eli Manning and the New York Giants you are the World Champions.

More tomorrow,

Anne

Only 1 hour to go!

2008-01-31T13:49:00.000-05:00

There's just one hour before America's Giving Challenge ends so please hurry and make your donation!
Thanks for spreading the word and donating!

More Later,

Anne

Rocco's Rock n Roll Revue

2008-01-30T18:02:00.000-05:00

It seems that more than a few of you might know one of our most valuable assets here at the Rock & Roll Library, my good friend MacDougall. (Pictured above with "Good Night Sweetheart" vocalist Pookie Hudson at the 2005 Doo Wop Hall of Fame inductions)

MacDougall taught US History and American Popular Culture at Newton North High School with his lovely wife and Math teacher Jo Ellen Hillyer for more than 35 years. He also produced Rocco’s Rock n Roll Revue, an annual 50’s Music Revue at Newton North for more than 25 years.

Years before I started the Rock & Roll Library, MacDougall was already pursuing our education mission on his own. He regularly referenced relevant songs in his classroom and taught students about the power of song. In a range of topics from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement his students learned that popular music could not only discuss important topics but that it could even affect change in our world.

Not to be limited by his classroom, MacDougall’s alter ego “Rocco” was born. Hundreds of students sang and danced their way through the annual Rocco show which gained Iconic stature in Newton, Massachusetts.

I met MacDougall through a mutual friend - Blue Suede Bopper, author and UMASS professor Reebee Garofalo. Reebee’s quite a character and music historian himself but when he introduced me to MacDougall I knew I was in for it.

MacDougall has been a Rock & Roll Library in-house historian, member of the Music Archive Advisory Board, Education Advisory Board, Song Lesson Contest review panel and general reference resource ever since.

I spoke with him earlier today and he was very excited to hear that so many friends, colleagues and former students were supporting our fundraising efforts. When you donate you have the option to dedicate your contribution to someone, many of you dedicated yours to MacDougall.

I also promised him that I’d let everyone know that his 2007 pick for Album of the Year is Bette LaVette’s The Scene of the Crime and that he’s also raving about Shelby Lynne’s new album, Just A Little Lovin' on Lost Highway Records that includes interpretations of nine Dusty Springfield songs.

If you'd like to reconnect with MacDougall email blog@rocklibrary.com and I'll be happy to forward messages to him

For friends and fans of MacDougall I give you Rocco and the Celestials singing “1,000 Miles Away” from 1983

Thank you for your generous contributions.

We only have until 3PM tomorrow (Thursday) 1/31 to collect as many donations as possible.

If you haven’t already done so, please make your donation now!

More later,

Anne

MacDougall & Jo Ellen

2008-01-30T14:35:00.000-05:00

Check back for a new post about MacDougall and Jo Ellen this afternoon.
Thanks for all the generous donations today!

Only 24 hours to go...so please donate and share our work with your friends!

More later,

Anne

Who's on first, What's on Second

2008-01-29T02:05:00.000-05:00

So I had quite an interesting day talking with people all over the country trying to get air time for the Giving Challenge. We can still win but it will take a massive effort to get the word out and I thought that radio would be a great medium for immediate impact and that I could target several metropolitan areas across the country to help generate donors.

However, in radio, there is a heirarchy at each station it includes:Programming Directors, Music Directors, Marketing Directors, Show Producers, On Air Talent etc. However the heirarchy isn't always the same. One station may have a much beloved On-Air personality who has more power over content while at another station the Programming Director rules.

Unless you know a station's history it can be hard to know who to talk to. I suffered from this today. I spoke with Program Directors who said that individual show producers would have to make the decisions and I spoke with On Air talent that said that it would have to be ok'd by the Programming Director, I also spoke with Show Producers who said that the On Air talent has to decide for themselves if they want to talk about it. However, I shall persist so Programming Directors, Music Directors, Show Producers, On-Air talent be prepared for my call and please take it. (or if you can help, email me at blog@rocklibrary.com)

I just want you to talk about Rock & Roll Library on the air for a few minutes and tell listeners that we're a worthy public charity and that if they want to help preserve the history of music and access it free online they should donate $10 right now to help Rock & Roll Library win $50,000 on Thursday. Simple enough!

Thank you to everyone who has supported the Giving Challenge so far, it has been very nice to hear from everyone and receive all the Birthday well wishes. I also received a lot of positive feedback about January 28th being celebrated as the holiday "Music" or "Music Day" so clearly we should start a petition and get that going. Anyone know how to start an online petition? I don't think that I have that as a blog feature, but I'll look into it, I'm pretty sure that there are websites that host them for free.

My Founder's Day was quite good; Bruce Springsteen and Jerry Garcia were on the box. We danced and sang and acted silly. I got Jay-Z's American Gangster - look kids, an actual CD!

More Tomorrow,

Anne

Founder's Day, who knew?

2008-01-28T01:26:00.000-05:00

We have some new feature stories up at RockLibrary.com announcing the blog and the Challenge Grant. Emails, news stories, press releases and blog entries equal a lot of writing; at this point the dog thinks that I’m physically attached to the keyboard.

I’ve also been working on a video promo that will go up on Youtube later today. Don't panic, I'll post it here too.

The Rock & Roll Library is usually closed on January 28 and all the interns and volunteers have the day off. They call it Founder’s Day, my mother called it my birthday but either way, this year I’ll be hard at work trying to generate interest in the Giving Challenge.

Yes, we are really closed on my birthday. I thought that it would be great to give someone a day off for this reason and I feel like I have to honor it if I want it to outlive me, so I close the library on January 28 and I take the day off.
I like the idea that in 100 years January 28th is a holiday maybe called Music that everyone has off, hangs out with friends and loved ones and play or listen to music and lets music enrich their lives. It's a holiday about the good things and wherever you are there are good things so make the best of it. Yes, I like how that sounds, who wouldn't? Your birthday is a holiday that reminds people to stop and live in the moment and enjoy themselves. "If you get confused just listen to the music play..."

In the event that in the future my birthday is not celebrated around the world as "Music" or "Music Day" I would still like the Rock & Roll Library to be closed and a concert should be held for all the staff and their guests, and some other guests, basically a big party. It should be awesome and we should be the envy of all.

To everyone who has donated so far, please accept my deepest gratitude. I am striking out beyond the boundaries of inner circles, friends, colleagues and Rock Library supporters to reach the masses.

Wish me luck as I pursue radio stations across the nation to help spread the word about our pursuit of $50,000 from America’s Giving Challenge. Maybe you’ll hear me on the air in your city.

If you’ve got a favorite radio station outside Boston send me a link to their website and I’ll send them our press release.

We only have 4 more days to get as many people as possible to donate. Please ask your friends, neighbors, mother and/or dog (if he has his own credit card & email address) to donate! It's only $10. Please donate by clicking the orange "Donate" button on the left.

More later,

Anne

Anticipation...

2008-01-26T03:05:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow’s going to be a big day I can feel it.
More tomorrow,

Anne

Four in the morning, tapped out, yawning...

2008-01-25T03:52:00.000-05:00

It's been a REALLY long day and it's got to end soon, but I didn't want to leave my regulars hanging so here's some incoherent drivel at 4 in the morning.

It's hard not having a publicist. I'm out there promoting this myself and it can be hard to make a donation request especially from teachers. We all know that teachers are overworked and underpaid and that is part of why we have an education department that creates helpful resources for educators and runs contests that reward them (both financially and spiritually). We like teachers a lot and we hope that they'll help us get a leg up so that we can continue and improve our work to integrate popular music and education.

As every charity fundraiser knows, you have to make the request; so I did, I made many request today and I plan to make even more requests tomorrow. We need to win this grant and we need people to know about our work and the Rock & Roll Library.

Enough with the requests for cash, for those of you in Boston I heard today that original FNX newsman Henry Santoro quit in the middle of his news update this morning. Now granted I didn't hear it because honestly, I'm not up at that hour, but Universal Hub blogged about it this afternoon (at 3:43PM so I doubt they were up either). It has now been suggested that it was a stunt but if it's not, it's a great loss for FNX and Boston radio. Henry has been a fixture at FNX since the beginning surviving countless talent replacements and he does a great job. It isn't easy being FNX in this radio market but they have created a niche and Henry has been integral in making it a solid radio station with some great events.

Henry has also been a friend to the Rock & Roll Library inviting me on air and helping me promote RockLibrary.com, the Music Archive, Song Lesson Contests and our local benefit concerts. I appreciate his support and I hope that things work out for the best for him.

Oh and Henry if you're reading this shoot me an email, I could use some help with America's Giving Challenge, we only have until 3PM on Thursday January 31 to get as many online donations as possible. Everyone please click the orange Donate button on the right if you can help. I have to take the dog out.

More tomorrow,

Anne

Help RockLibrary win $50,000

2008-01-24T00:55:00.000-05:00

I am very excited to announce that the Rock & Roll Library is participating in America’s Giving Challenge which will award $50,000 to eight charities that receive the highest number of unique donations before 3PM on January 31, 2008.

The Challenge is pretty simple: donations of $10 or more must be made through my charity badge located on the right side of this blog and a unique donor is defined by a unique email address and credit card or PayPal account (Visa, MC, AMEX and Discover are all accepted).

This is an extremely exciting opportunity for us as we are currently focusing on development and fundraising to help propel Rock Library to the next level of success.

The Rock & Roll Library is a 100% volunteer organization that I founded in 1999. Through tens of thousands of volunteer hours, additional donated services from a wide array of professionals and nearly 10,000 hours contributed by college interns, the Rock & Roll Library was built from the ground up.

We started in 1999 by building our first website, laying out plans for educational programs and mapping out the Music Archive. As we continued to grow we built the RRL Music Archive 1.0 in Cold Fusion (which I was assured was the most robust and scalable of database programs) with database consultants directing Computer Science undergrads and ultimately we began adding content.

With lightning advances in programming and data management our original Music Archive database became outdated and with an offer from established web/database developers we embarked on our most significant project: building an entirely new website and database in a different program, Microsoft Sequel Server and .NET.

Needless to say a project of this magnitude took up a good amount of time and because it was being done pro bono it took longer than we had anticipated. However we persevered and ultimately re-launched RockLibrary.com and the new RRL Music Archive and began adding content: people, bands, albums, songs, events, news stories, biographies, band histories etc.

Our next step is to create strategic partnerships that will serve the RRL and its visitors such as Click to Buy: Song, CD, Book, DVD, Ringtone, Ticket and Sheet Music by providing reputable retail vendor options to visitors and provide long term funding streams for the RRL. However I am committed to maintaining the integrity of RockLibrary.com which you may have noticed does not accept ANY advertising.

I was an early adopter believing that the Internet was the way of the future. Maybe it was because I saw its possibility or maybe because it served my needs. I always believed that I’d build a brick and mortar music library that would attract music fans from around the world to study the history of music, what I didn’t expect was the Internet to come along and make my music library available to the world from their own homes.

Please click the big orange "Donate" button on the right and make your contribution today and if you would, please tell one other person about my work.

More tomorrow…

Anne

Where to start...

2008-01-23T01:30:00.000-05:00

I refuse to have writer's block during my first blog entry but the writer's block doesn't seem to be cooperating...

I have some exciting news that I hope to announce here very soon about the Rock & Roll Library. If you're not familiar with Rock & Roll Library I encourage you to check out RockLibrary.com. We're building a free online archive of music history along with some fun interactive features like This Day in Music History and Music Trivia.

Our goal is to include music from ALL genres and eras.

When we started adding to the Music Archive we started with some core rock acts complimented by some early influences, icons from other genres and a few of today's most popular artists. The archive still has a lot of growing to do but we continue to add artists, albums, songs, events, photos news and more on a regular basis. Eric Clapton is our current featured artist at RockLibrary.com and a great way to start exploring the Music Archive and see its potential for growth.

Beyond the Music Archive and features for music fans we also create educational programs that integrate popular music into all subjects; for example, if students are studying the American Civil War, "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down" (written by Robbie Robertson and recorded by The Band) could be used to stir student's interest and raise interesting questions for discussion.

For example, the line: "Stoneman's Cavalry came and they tore up the tracks again" raises several questions for students:

Who's Stoneman? (George Stoneman was a Union cavalry general in the American Civil War and later Governor of California)
What's a cavalry? (military troops that fight on horseback)
Why did they tear up the railroad tracks? (destroying railroad tracks halted supply shipments across the south and made the war more difficult for the Confederacy)

This song can also be used in English classes to teach a wide range of topics including poetry, theme and narrative voice.

That's an overview of the Rock & Roll Library and I guess that it's as good a place as any to start this blog. I'll post more about our programs later.

Feel free to submit questions or comments and I'll try to be good about responding and definitely check back for blog updates as they'll be coming fast and frequently for the next few weeks.

Peace,
Anne
http://www.rocklibrary.com/