Ok folks, I'll kick this off since I'm recovering from food poisoning and all that's getting me through my day-and-a-half barf jag and total isolation is Geo.
I couldn't believe it when I found my single favorite moment of the show on youtube... "Amazing"
It's actually a pretty good recording (if you want a great laugh, watch the video someone took of "Everything She Wants" all you can hear is some chick singing along. Who am I to laugh, I was belting it out with the best of 'em)
I'm working through my official review, so that's forthcoming, but I wanted to give the YDG peeps something to go on.
In related Geo news, I've caught up with the show "Eli Stone", which in all honesty is awful except for the Geo moments. I would, however, highly recommend watching Episode 9 "I Want Your Sex" Geo is a major focus of this episode as he hires Eli Stone to represent a girl who was suspended from high school for playing IWYS during an abstinence assembly at school. Actually, here are the best parts:
Monday, August 4, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
George and the Women of Soul
Aretha, Mary, and Whitney. Three of the biggest if not the female R&B singers of all time. Other than that, what do they all have in common? They've all done duets with George. He's about the only white man who can withstand the power of their voices and presence without getting totally drowned out.
Today, I am featuring If I Told You That with Whitney Houston. The singing is great and it's a total late 90s classic. George shows off some power dance moves here and is sporting his 90s ceasar Castro look. It's hot! And the video features a fabulous dance floor singing dance off between the two.
The imbed has been disabled, so here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWdoGmZGeyk
Today, I am featuring If I Told You That with Whitney Houston. The singing is great and it's a total late 90s classic. George shows off some power dance moves here and is sporting his 90s ceasar Castro look. It's hot! And the video features a fabulous dance floor singing dance off between the two.
The imbed has been disabled, so here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWdoGmZGeyk
GM on GMA
Today was part 1 of 2 of an interview Chris Cuomo did with Geo for Good Morning America. It was all of the typical stuff George covers if you've seen any interview with him over the past couple of years: lover dying of HIV, mother dying, bathroom incident, etc. George looked pretty good. Chris Cuomo said Geo has a "piercing intelligence." Wow! The most remarkable thing about the piece was that if you didn't know better, you would think that George had a couple of hits with Wham! and then did nothing for 20 years. I mean, some of his best work has been in the past 10! It was really strange how they glossed over about 8 solo albums and 60 million records sold.
Tomorrow in part 2, George is going to reveal what his secret is that makes him still so popular with the ladies. Cuomo remarked that the ladies were going nuts last night for the show at MSG. Including Sarah Jessica Parker.
Just think, that will be us in a week!
Tomorrow in part 2, George is going to reveal what his secret is that makes him still so popular with the ladies. Cuomo remarked that the ladies were going nuts last night for the show at MSG. Including Sarah Jessica Parker.
Just think, that will be us in a week!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Event Reminder: George Michael
This is the subject line I saw when I opened my email this morning. I cannot believe it, people! We are exactly two weeks away! How cute of Ticketmaster to remind me. Don't they know we've been obsessing on this for months? I should respond to Ticketmaster with a link to this blog.
We've all been kind of giving YDG the fade. And I can understand why:
1) Jen has left her job, moved, taken up temporary residence in Shreveport, LA, and moved into a place in LA. Oh, and she's planning her wedding.
2) Greg has left a job and started a new one. At the FCC no less.
3) Lano is a big loser. Oh wait, sorry. Lano has had more important priorities such as his health.
4) I have been furiously getting ready to put my house on the market, put it on the market, showing it, and being a big fat loser.
If there was ever a time for Geo, it is now. We need him! Come on, people! Let's start making our plans for the night of. What are we going to do pre and post concert?
We've all been kind of giving YDG the fade. And I can understand why:
1) Jen has left her job, moved, taken up temporary residence in Shreveport, LA, and moved into a place in LA. Oh, and she's planning her wedding.
2) Greg has left a job and started a new one. At the FCC no less.
3) Lano is a big loser. Oh wait, sorry. Lano has had more important priorities such as his health.
4) I have been furiously getting ready to put my house on the market, put it on the market, showing it, and being a big fat loser.
If there was ever a time for Geo, it is now. We need him! Come on, people! Let's start making our plans for the night of. What are we going to do pre and post concert?
Friday, June 27, 2008
L.A. Review of Geo
Another rave review for our Geo. This one's my favorite as Geo called out Dr. Phil for being a lifeless turd. Sorry folks for shirking my YDG role. I'll be back once I'm esconced in the loveliness that is Shreveport!
________________________
Live Review
George Michael - The Forum, Los Angeles
Thu, 26 Jun 2008 04:52:20
It's been 20 years since George Michael last played Los Angeles. If it's another 20 years before he returns, at least the City of Angels can rest assured they got their fill of memories when he headlined The Forum Wednesday night.
"The last time I played here was 1988, I was 25," said the former Wham! frontman turned solo superstar early in the night's highlight-filled, 140-minute performance. "I hope by the end of tonight, you'll have forgiven me for my absence… In fact, I'm going to make sure you forgive me, we'll have a fucking wicked time!"
With a pristine voice and good humored demeanor, and a 15-piece band and one of the most visually compelling video stages in recent memory, the 45-year-old pop idol-turned-club icon-cum-sophisticated crooner lived up to every word of his promise, from the moment the stage opened and the gallant hero of the gay community walked to the center of the screaming arena during opener "Waiting (Reprise)," through the fading chorus of closer "Freedom 90" nearly three hours later. He even celebrated his birthday onstage, the crowd singing "Happy Birthday" on no fewer than two occasions, and his band taking a well rehearsed run through the song as actress Bo Derek presented him with a cake during the evening's encore.
Broken into two hour-plus sets split by a 25-minute intermission, the 23-song setlist was anchored by the Technicolor glitz and rainbow-waving pageantry of Michael's club-driven dance anthems, from the smooth and salacious second song of the night, "Fastlove," to the more flamboyant "An Easier Affair" ("this is for the gays," he offered), "Too Funky" and "Star People '97," which closed the first hour and lit the stage in a vortex of flashing colors that thrust the synth-driven revelry to light speed.
"This song is from 1984. Just turn to the person next to you and imagine them with four times as much hair, and you're almost there. But you'll have to help me, I'm an old man, and I can't hit the high notes anymore…" Michael laughed as he introduced the Wham! hit "Everything She Wants." Despite the fact that the he hardy missed a note all night (if at all), the enthusiastic crowd rose to his vocal challenge, accompanying the six backup singers as neon disco balls and dollar signs flashed in the background.
Other first-set favorites included the night's only other Wham! single, "I'm Your Man," early solo hit "Father Figure," the soft and supple "Jesus To A Child" and the beautiful standout "A Different Corner," which was driven by an evocative vocal performance that proved as vulnerable as it was powerful.
If the first set leaned heavily on Michael's early career, the second set focused on the variety that has marked his more recent work. Though he returned to the stage to the gentle swing of "Faith," it was the more colorful plumage of the "La Cage aux Folles"-flavored "Feeling Good" and a middle-of-the-arena foray through the jazzed-down Police cover "Roxanne" and the old-time, standard-sounding “Kissing A Fool” that proved most resounding amidst the more danceable run of set closers "Amazing," "Flawless (Go To The City)" and "Outside."
There were a bevy of celebrities in the crowd, but it was television therapist Dr. Phil who got the most memorable George Michael shout out, to the crowd's booing dismay. "In the sea of smiling faces, he's looked miserable for the last hour," Michael ribbed as the video screens showed the Oprah favorite and his wife. "You should see someone about that!"
"Praying For Time," the song Michael performed on the season finale of American Idol, opened the encore, and was followed by the highly anticipated sing-along sway of "Careless Whisper" and the night's celebratory closing favorite "Freedom '90."
"Thank you, I've had a wonderful night," said Michael before kicking into "Freedom." "Do you forgive me?" While the answer was a resounding roar from the crowd, more interesting was his closing remarks as he left the stage: "I'll see you soon…"
George Michael kicked off the six week North American leg of his current 25 Live Tour in San Diego, CA, June 17. The 21-city run is highlighted by three stops in Southern California (San Diego, Los Angeles and Friday night’s show in Anaheim) and two nights at New York City's Madison Square Garden, and closes August 3, in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The world tour, which started in September 2006 in Barcelona, Spain, will conclude with two shows, "The Final Two," August 24-25 at Earls Court, in London, England.
________________________
Live Review
George Michael - The Forum, Los Angeles
Thu, 26 Jun 2008 04:52:20
It's been 20 years since George Michael last played Los Angeles. If it's another 20 years before he returns, at least the City of Angels can rest assured they got their fill of memories when he headlined The Forum Wednesday night.
"The last time I played here was 1988, I was 25," said the former Wham! frontman turned solo superstar early in the night's highlight-filled, 140-minute performance. "I hope by the end of tonight, you'll have forgiven me for my absence… In fact, I'm going to make sure you forgive me, we'll have a fucking wicked time!"
With a pristine voice and good humored demeanor, and a 15-piece band and one of the most visually compelling video stages in recent memory, the 45-year-old pop idol-turned-club icon-cum-sophisticated crooner lived up to every word of his promise, from the moment the stage opened and the gallant hero of the gay community walked to the center of the screaming arena during opener "Waiting (Reprise)," through the fading chorus of closer "Freedom 90" nearly three hours later. He even celebrated his birthday onstage, the crowd singing "Happy Birthday" on no fewer than two occasions, and his band taking a well rehearsed run through the song as actress Bo Derek presented him with a cake during the evening's encore.
Broken into two hour-plus sets split by a 25-minute intermission, the 23-song setlist was anchored by the Technicolor glitz and rainbow-waving pageantry of Michael's club-driven dance anthems, from the smooth and salacious second song of the night, "Fastlove," to the more flamboyant "An Easier Affair" ("this is for the gays," he offered), "Too Funky" and "Star People '97," which closed the first hour and lit the stage in a vortex of flashing colors that thrust the synth-driven revelry to light speed.
"This song is from 1984. Just turn to the person next to you and imagine them with four times as much hair, and you're almost there. But you'll have to help me, I'm an old man, and I can't hit the high notes anymore…" Michael laughed as he introduced the Wham! hit "Everything She Wants." Despite the fact that the he hardy missed a note all night (if at all), the enthusiastic crowd rose to his vocal challenge, accompanying the six backup singers as neon disco balls and dollar signs flashed in the background.
Other first-set favorites included the night's only other Wham! single, "I'm Your Man," early solo hit "Father Figure," the soft and supple "Jesus To A Child" and the beautiful standout "A Different Corner," which was driven by an evocative vocal performance that proved as vulnerable as it was powerful.
If the first set leaned heavily on Michael's early career, the second set focused on the variety that has marked his more recent work. Though he returned to the stage to the gentle swing of "Faith," it was the more colorful plumage of the "La Cage aux Folles"-flavored "Feeling Good" and a middle-of-the-arena foray through the jazzed-down Police cover "Roxanne" and the old-time, standard-sounding “Kissing A Fool” that proved most resounding amidst the more danceable run of set closers "Amazing," "Flawless (Go To The City)" and "Outside."
There were a bevy of celebrities in the crowd, but it was television therapist Dr. Phil who got the most memorable George Michael shout out, to the crowd's booing dismay. "In the sea of smiling faces, he's looked miserable for the last hour," Michael ribbed as the video screens showed the Oprah favorite and his wife. "You should see someone about that!"
"Praying For Time," the song Michael performed on the season finale of American Idol, opened the encore, and was followed by the highly anticipated sing-along sway of "Careless Whisper" and the night's celebratory closing favorite "Freedom '90."
"Thank you, I've had a wonderful night," said Michael before kicking into "Freedom." "Do you forgive me?" While the answer was a resounding roar from the crowd, more interesting was his closing remarks as he left the stage: "I'll see you soon…"
George Michael kicked off the six week North American leg of his current 25 Live Tour in San Diego, CA, June 17. The 21-city run is highlighted by three stops in Southern California (San Diego, Los Angeles and Friday night’s show in Anaheim) and two nights at New York City's Madison Square Garden, and closes August 3, in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The world tour, which started in September 2006 in Barcelona, Spain, will conclude with two shows, "The Final Two," August 24-25 at Earls Court, in London, England.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
One More Try -- This one goes out for 'Lano
Ladies (Why bother even saying gentlemen anymore?),
Today I bring you "One More Try" arguably one of the best songs Geo has ever written and recorded and featured on the "For the Heart" disc of the Ladies and Ladies greatest hits collection.
I am sending this one out as a special YDG tribute to John who is dealing with some crazy health issues right now. Bizarre infection and elevated EKGs -- he is resting well at home after a crazy weekend. (We are convinced his elevated EKG was a result of reading YDG too much. The paramedics had to pry the laptop from his hands.) He's trying to get into see a cardiologist "For the Heart," but has had some trouble. He needs to keep trying -- "One More Try," if you will. John, take a cue from Geo who has never given up. He continues to be such an inspiration to us all.
What can I say about this song that all of you haven't already said or thought? George has said he is most proud of this recording; I can understand that. It is the singular moment vaulted George to being one of the great white soul singers of all time. He just belts this one out with such passion and conviction -- after more than 20 years of listening to it, it continues to mesmerize me. Just George and a Casio. It's all you need. How I didn't realize George was gay when this came out, I will never understand.
Let's send all the good vibes out to John today. I have prescribed the healing power of George Michael recordings as part of his protocol.
The imbed is disabled, but the link is below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7Iiz1g1WLk
One more thing: I am SICK of these people who mention our George in the same sentence as Boy George. As if there is any comparison? Such an insult. People just know they're both gay and were popular in the 80s and think of them as the same. Insane. When will this homophobic madness end?
Today I bring you "One More Try" arguably one of the best songs Geo has ever written and recorded and featured on the "For the Heart" disc of the Ladies and Ladies greatest hits collection.
I am sending this one out as a special YDG tribute to John who is dealing with some crazy health issues right now. Bizarre infection and elevated EKGs -- he is resting well at home after a crazy weekend. (We are convinced his elevated EKG was a result of reading YDG too much. The paramedics had to pry the laptop from his hands.) He's trying to get into see a cardiologist "For the Heart," but has had some trouble. He needs to keep trying -- "One More Try," if you will. John, take a cue from Geo who has never given up. He continues to be such an inspiration to us all.
What can I say about this song that all of you haven't already said or thought? George has said he is most proud of this recording; I can understand that. It is the singular moment vaulted George to being one of the great white soul singers of all time. He just belts this one out with such passion and conviction -- after more than 20 years of listening to it, it continues to mesmerize me. Just George and a Casio. It's all you need. How I didn't realize George was gay when this came out, I will never understand.
Let's send all the good vibes out to John today. I have prescribed the healing power of George Michael recordings as part of his protocol.
The imbed is disabled, but the link is below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7Iiz1g1WLk
One more thing: I am SICK of these people who mention our George in the same sentence as Boy George. As if there is any comparison? Such an insult. People just know they're both gay and were popular in the 80s and think of them as the same. Insane. When will this homophobic madness end?
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Geo Go-Go!!!
After concert announcements and 25 Live north american tour hype, I think its time to go back to a staple. I've decided to go with the video that I'll assume introduced all of us on this board to the magic of George Michael, Wham's "Wake me up before you go-go!"
Watching this video, cheesy and dated as it is, its impossible to not get wrapped up in the fun of it all and not be thrown head first into a good mood, the bouncy music is simply infectious!
But for this video kids, the focus MUST be on the look! Here goes:
First, the clothes: RIDICULOUS!?! How dated and cheesy! where's the "Frankie Says" one??? On the contrary, how can you NOT love the George's striped short shorts?? Thats the stuff of legend (how did anyone ever think they can push him as a straight guy??)!!!
Second, the moves: In this video we see the origins of the Geo "swinging hand clap." Granted its a little over the top, and not as refined as the cool moves he employs today, but nevertheless, its GOOD. In particular, I love when he sings "you make the sun shine brighter than doris day" and then shields his eyes, what a queen!!! Um, and can we talk about the yellow gloves???
FINALLY and most importantly, pay close attention to my favorite part, at 2:29, when georgie says "it cold out there but its warm in bed" simulateously rolling his eyes. Maybe his gayest gesture EVER! Downright hysterical.
Anyway, hope this staple put you all in a good mood, its sure did it for me! I couldnt embed so here;s the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHEVK-DMKAw&feature=related
Watching this video, cheesy and dated as it is, its impossible to not get wrapped up in the fun of it all and not be thrown head first into a good mood, the bouncy music is simply infectious!
But for this video kids, the focus MUST be on the look! Here goes:
First, the clothes: RIDICULOUS!?! How dated and cheesy! where's the "Frankie Says" one??? On the contrary, how can you NOT love the George's striped short shorts?? Thats the stuff of legend (how did anyone ever think they can push him as a straight guy??)!!!
Second, the moves: In this video we see the origins of the Geo "swinging hand clap." Granted its a little over the top, and not as refined as the cool moves he employs today, but nevertheless, its GOOD. In particular, I love when he sings "you make the sun shine brighter than doris day" and then shields his eyes, what a queen!!! Um, and can we talk about the yellow gloves???
FINALLY and most importantly, pay close attention to my favorite part, at 2:29, when georgie says "it cold out there but its warm in bed" simulateously rolling his eyes. Maybe his gayest gesture EVER! Downright hysterical.
Anyway, hope this staple put you all in a good mood, its sure did it for me! I couldnt embed so here;s the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHEVK-DMKAw&feature=related
Friday, June 20, 2008
Can You Feel It?!
Geo is making his way to the nation's capital. In short, he'll be "Round Here" soon enough. So in honor of George criss crossing his way to us adoring YDGers, I am posting Round Here, one of the best cuts off the Patience album.
The song is brilliant and the video is pure George. It's just him and his band in the studio edited with footage of his hometown. He sings like an absolute fucking angel on this one and he is looking decidedly NOT like Robert Evans. And as we all like to WATCH him sing, this is a real treat.
The songwriting on this one is up in the Father Figure pantheon for me. Mid-tempo, soulful, personal, and really shows of his vocal range and abilities. It's in the top 25 in my ipod I would have to guess. It's much like A Moment with You where he's hitting the notes brilliantly, but is holding it back and not belting it out, it's a little softer. As we all know, George can do anything with his voice and on Round Here, me likey! The low key production on this is wonderful, too.
Enjoy this one, YDGers. Soon, our beloved George will be here. I can hardly stand it!
Also, Geo on people.com today looking very much like Robert Evans:
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20207825,00.html
The song is brilliant and the video is pure George. It's just him and his band in the studio edited with footage of his hometown. He sings like an absolute fucking angel on this one and he is looking decidedly NOT like Robert Evans. And as we all like to WATCH him sing, this is a real treat.
The songwriting on this one is up in the Father Figure pantheon for me. Mid-tempo, soulful, personal, and really shows of his vocal range and abilities. It's in the top 25 in my ipod I would have to guess. It's much like A Moment with You where he's hitting the notes brilliantly, but is holding it back and not belting it out, it's a little softer. As we all know, George can do anything with his voice and on Round Here, me likey! The low key production on this is wonderful, too.
Enjoy this one, YDGers. Soon, our beloved George will be here. I can hardly stand it!
Also, Geo on people.com today looking very much like Robert Evans:
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20207825,00.html
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