NEW SONG

I recently recorded a song called "Makes Me Feel". This is another self-produced, self-written track. I sang it at Karaoke on Tuesday night, however, and people seemed to enjoy it.

I am going to PREMIERE a CLIP of this song on my FACEBOOK page. It is public, therefore you do not have to "Like" it or have Facebook to listen.

I will premiere it TOMORROW (December 24th, 2010), exclusively on mypage. It should be somewhere around 3pm EST, so keep an eye out. It will be in "video" format, but there's nothing special about the video part. LoL.

Hope you enjoy,
James

P.S. Don't forget to keep an eye on the left hand side of my FACEBOOK page, b/c it will tell you all the places you can find me performing. I'll be at Stiletto's January 1st, and Rainbow Sounds, season premiere, is on January 10th!

The Big Gay Christmas Show! (Rainbow Sounds 12-13-2010)

Yes, it's THE BIG GAY CHRISTMAS SHOW! If you didn't HEAR the show today, here's the playlist: you'll see why...

You Haven't Seen The Last of Me (Almighty Radio Edit) - Cher (Burlesque)
Hard Candy Christmas - RuPaul
No More Tears (Enough is Enough) - Donna Summer; Barbra Streisand
Deck the Rooftop - Glee
Stamp Your Feet - Donna Summer
Listen to Your Heart - DHT
No Ordinary Christmas - Cheetah Girls
Me, Myself and (I) - Darren Hayes
It Doesn't Often Snow at Christmas - Pet Shop Boys
Everybody Bleeds The Same - Ferras
Christmas Tree - Lady Gaga
It's Raining Men - Geri Halliwell
Burning Star - Natalia ft. Anastacia
Melodies of Christmas - David Archuletta
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays - *NSync
Seasons of Love - Rent Cast; Stevie Wonder
What Are You Doing New Year's Eve - Clay Aiken
Auld Lang Syne (The New Year's Anthem) - Mariah Carey

Cher's NIPPLES?
Estee Lauder's first black model!

Lynda Carter (Wonder Woman) and IBS

3 Discharged Vets Want to Return to Military!
State (Michigan) considers non-married partner benefits

S/He Said
Gay books vandalized at Harvard
Gay Kiss removed from Air NZ

My pal, Hugh Yeman's blog, Meet Adam and Steve
Anderson Cooper's TALK SHOW, Anderson
Gucci Threw a Day-Care Party to launch children's line!

Department of Justice: It Gets Better
(Also, get your It Gets Better TSHIRT here)
California DMV investigates hate letter
Lesbian Engineer wins 4 year suit

James Franco watches a gigolo have sex
Ja Rule headed to prison
(Carrie) Fisher Priceless (interview)

Chris Colfer to make FILM DEBUT
Nelly Furtado on It Gets Better (and Justin Bieber)
Mariah, Unwrapped (interview)
Hockey Team video of Mariah Carey Christmas song

Rainbow Sounds returns January 10th, 2011. If you'd like to cohost, contribute music, or just have comments or questions, you can email me at jtaylorj@emich.edu !

Thanks, and don't forget to check out upcoming performances by looking on the left hand side of my FACEBOOK page.

7 songs from 99 songs

I do not own any of these songs, just appreciate them.Based on my blog "Music and Life" in which I list 99 songs that have influenced my life or have spoken to me on a very deep level. Yes, this includes "Pop" by *NSync, "Everytime" by Britney Spears, and even "How Do I Feel (The Burrito Song)" by Hoku. But it also includes "A Song for Mama", "You Raise Me Up", and "Love Heals".

Enjoy this clip of just some of those songs, then head on over to http://jamestaylorjrmusic.blogspot.com/ and click "Music & Life (99 songs)" on the right hand side.

Or just click HERE.

Music and Life

I recently decided to make a CD for my voice professor of some MAJOR songs that affect me now and have affected me throughout my life. The Story: I won't be taking Voice next semester, or probably ever again, at Eastern. I have fulfilled more than my share of credits in voice, and it is time for me to move on. I wanted to leave a piece of me with her, as a piece of her, and all of my music friends at Eastern, will always be with me.

This was no easy task. In fact, it has proven impossible, since, as many of you have come to realize, I love music way too much. So I've come up with the top 99. Yes, that's right 99.

So, Lindsay Kesselman, this is dedicated to you. But it's also for anyone who's ever had music touch their life and impact them on many levels. Enjoy.

Top 99 songs that have affected me in 2010 and beyond:

{I love Anastacia. I love the timbre of the voice, the style in which she writes, and her courage and strength. The entire album, Anastacia, was written and recorded while undergoing treatments (including radiation and chemotherapy) for breast cancer at the age of 35. Proceeds from the single "Heavy on my Heart" went to the Anastacia Fund which in turn went to The Breast Cancer Research Fund.}
Beautiful Messed Up World (from Heavy Rotation [Anastacia])
Heavy on my Heart (from Anastacia [Anastacia])

{I recently discovered that Charlotte Church, besides being a child (pop-)opera star and current talk show host, was still recording music! Pop music! Not opera! "Logical World" seems silly, cutesy, and funny at times. However, it can mean so much more: confusion, being lost, things just simply not making sense in the world in general, but also in our own world that we create for ourselves. "Even God" is just an amazing piece that you have to hear to understand. Quiet, but powerful.}
Logical World (from Back to Scratch [Charlotte Church])
Even God (a.k.a. Even God Can't Change the Past) (from Tissues and Issues [Charlotte Church]) (Written by Boy George, Rick Nowels, and John Themis)

{Cher. Is there anything else? Ha ha. The first of these two songs is very uplifting, and, like love should be, it is dedicted to EVERYONE. "Runaway" is a little sadder, but has always said something to me. It represents that need in us ALL to just simply get away from all of it sometimes.}
A Different Kind of Love Song (from Living Proof [Cher])
Runaway (from Believe [Cher])

{More Cher.}
You Have Seen the Last of Me (from Burlesque, Soundtrack [Cher])

{I love Christina. She has an amazing voice (that she doesn't always use correctly, efficiently, or beautifully) and writes some very poignant lyrics . "I Got Trouble" is fun, and bluesy: my favorite Christina style (much like a favorite inspiration of us both, Etta James). "Loving Me 4 Me" is something for which we all pray. "Soar" is inspirational. "I'm OK" is... difficult to talk about. My mother was physically abused by her first husband, as Christina's father abused her mother. This song is about the daughter (Christina) witnessing this abuse. It reminds me of my mother, sister, and brother, and the pain they experienced because of their ordeals with abuse, and it affects me very powerfully on a very emotional level. "Blessed" reminds me that I am blessed for everything that I have, and it was a song I tried to incorporate into a video compilation of my aunt after she passed away. The video never came to fruition, but the song still reminds me of all the things I've lost, and all the things I have.}
I Got Trouble (from Back to Basics [Christina Aguilera])
Loving Me 4 Me (from Stripped [Christina Aguilera])
Soar (from Stripped [Christina Aguilera])
I'm OK (from Stripped [Christina Aguilera])
Blessed (from Christina Aguilera [Christina Aguilera])

{I was introduced to the Dixie Chicks by my friend Suzanna Dorroh when I was about 12-13 yrs old in Princeton, Kentucky. Since then, I have been an avid follower. (I even have the CourtYard Hounds album.) These songs are songs that truly speak to me about life, love, relationships, happiness, sadness, not compromising yourself, and so much more.}
Easy Silence (from Taking the Long Way [Dixie Chicks])
I Believe in Love (from Home [Dixie Chicks])
Heartbreak Town (from Fly [Dixie Chicks])

{Backwoods Barbie is a pretty good album by one of the best songwriters in music. "Better Get to Livin'" is a fun song with a great message. Although I'm not very religious, I am extremely spiritual and when I heard "Jesus & Gravity" for the first time, I cried. It is extremely powerful, and really says something about our connection to the earth and to the universe; to ourselves and to God.}
Better Get to Livin' (from Backwoods Barbie [Dolly Parton])
Jesus & Gravity (from Backwoods Barbie [Dolly Parton])

{I discovered Ferras doing research for Rainbow Sounds. He is 4 years older than I am, to the day. (Yes, that means we share a birthday!) He is also an OUT singer/songwriter whose song "Hollywood's Not America" was featured briefly as an exit song on American Idol. “Everybody Bleeds the Same” is a song with a wonderful message.}
Everybody Bleeds the Same (from Aliens & Rainbows [Ferras])

{This entire album means so much to me. It is Idina's first major release (Warner), and I love her voice, her writing, her collaborations, and her choices for this album. With songs like "I Stand", "Brave", and "Gorgeous", I can't say anything more except amazing!}
I Stand [Idina Menzel] (songs: I Stand, Better to Have Loved, Brave, Gorgeous, Where Do I Begin, Don’t Let Me Down, I Feel Everything, Forever, My Own Worst Enemy, Perfume and Promises, Let Me Fall [Bonus], I Stand [Acoustic / Bonus])

{John Barrowman is Scottish-born, American-raised, and one of England's finest talents. Barrowman is best known for his West End work, as well as being Captain Jack on Doctor Who and Torchwood (both of which are where I fell in love with him), When I found out Barrowman was a West End star and singer, I became ecstatic. "What About Us?" is the only original song he's ever recorded. "I Know Him So Well" is a duet from Chess about two women who love the same man. For OUT actor John Barrowman to sing this with OUT singer Daniel Boys is extremely powerful to me.}
What About Us? (from Music Music Music [John Barrowman])
I Know Him So Well (from Music Music Music [John Barrowman featuring Daniel Boys])

{First love of my life, Judy, and the incomparable Babs. Need I say more?}
Get Happy / Happy Days Are Here Again (from The Judy Garland Show, 1963, can also be heard on Duets [Barbra Streisand; Judy Garland])

{More Judy…}
Zing! Went The Strings of my Heart [Judy Garland]

{Since the moment I heard Kelly Clarkson on season 1 of American Idol, I loved her. The first season was actually a pretty amazing season. And while I love the majority of Kelly’s music, and there are songs not listed here that are amazing, these are the songs that have really spoken to me throughout the years. “Cry” is really an amazing country rock ballad that should just stand alone, be taken separate from all of her other work, it is such a great piece. “Sober” and “Hear Me” bring out the empath in me, feeling the emotions of what others feel when they are crying out. “If No One Will Listen” was an excellent choice of a cover song, and I honestly feel that she does the song way more justice than the writer and original singer, Keri Noble. The song says a lot of self as well as society.}
Cry (from All You Ever Wanted [Kelly Clarkson])
If No One Will Listen (from All You Ever Wanted [Kelly Clarkson, cover of Keri Noble])
Sober (from My December [Kelly Clarkson])
Hear Me (from Breakaway [Kelly Clarkson])

{Mariah Carey has an amazing voice. No matter what you think of her, her songs, her writing, or her style of singing, this fact (simply named “The Voice”) can not be denied. These songs are gospel-oriented and inspired. “I Wish You Well” draws lyrics from scripture, describing the injustice of being mistreated and judged, saying that “I Wish You Well” even if you don’t wish the same of me. “Fly Like A Bird” features Carey’s pastor reading from the Bible. While I am not a religious person, I like that these songs are about self-empowerment, and having a deep spiritual relationship that takes you to a positive place.}
I Wish You Well (from E=MC2 [Mariah Carey])
Fly Like A Bird (from The Emancipation of Mimi [Mariah Carey])

{Let’s face it: first season of American Idol, I was in love with RJ. I was praying (coincidently enough) that he was gay. When he DID come out in 2006, I had only mildly let him slip into the back of my mind. At that time, I searched out his album, which I had previously decided not to listen to because it was an INSPIRATION/CHRISTIAN album. However, this album is amazing. There are latin influences (despite being raised by his white, adopted family), there are rhythm and blues influences, and songs about God that are such UNIVERSAL messages about love, peace and forgiveness, of ourselves and others. It’s really a pretty incredible album.}
Real Life [RJ Helton] (songs: Even If, My Devotion, Love Song, All We Need to Know, Freedom, Tell Me, Why Don’t We Pray, Delicate Child, Forgive, Crazy, Missing Me, Canto de Amor [Bonus, Spanish of “Love Song”])

{Rupaul, Rupaul, Rupaul. What can be said? The most popular drag queen in the world, entertainer extraordinaire, full of EXTRAVAGANZA… and heart. Champion was an album FOR the gay community, and Rupaul makes no qualms about it. It’s really his (her, in drag) first album directed, intentionally, toward his (her) loyal gay audience. “Never Go Home Again” tells the story of two youth who fear returning home because they are not accepted by their “family” and “friends”. The bridge encourages and reminds us to “make the family you want with ones who really love you.” “Let’s Turn The Night”: community, commitment, and Proposition 8. “Coming Out of Hiding” is simply fabulousity, and (again, though not intentional) definitely speaks to the LGBTQQI community as a whole.}
Never Go Home Again (from Champion [Rupaul])
Let’s Turn The Night (from Champion [Rupaul])
Coming Out of Hiding (from Red Hot [RuPaul])

{I discovered this musical revue (Bed, Boys and Beyond) around 2004, and absolutely fell in love with the music. “Gay Today” asks the critical questions of how LGBT individuals are looked at in the wide scope of society, such as: “Will I find love and friendship in this new day? Will some of the stigma and blame finally fall away from being gay today? Will I at last feel I’m safe living out and open? Will I have the heart or the hope to help me cope with being gay today?” “May I Take Your Hand?” is much more personal, a plea from one love to another, wanting to show affection, even in the simplest of ways. “I don’t want to make a statement to conservatives and purists; confuse all the ladies, or frighten the tourists. I’m not looking to shock or offend, but must we always pretend that you are nothing more than a friend?”}
Gay Today (from Bed, Boys and Beyond)
May I Take Your Hand? (from Bed, Boys and Beyond)

{A must-see film (Latter Days). “If I Could Be With You Now”, a great male love duet. Great, great songs for this film. These songs stuck out the most to me, and speak to me. They are must-hear.}
If I Could Be With You Now (from Latter Days, Soundtrack)
Hymn for Those Left Behind (from Latter Days, Soundtrack)
Another Beautiful Day (from Latter Days, Soundtrack)
Abide with Me (hymn, also from Latter Days, Soundtrack)
Tuesday, 3:00am (from Latter Days, Soundtrack)

{If you’ve never seen or heard of Rent, you are missing out. You don’t have to love it, but please appreciate it for what it is. It speaks VERY poignantly about HIV, AIDS, life and death, music, hope, growth, and so, so, so, so, so much more. If you can’t see a production of it, please RENT (he he) either the film or the DVD, Rent: Filmed Live on Broadway. The reprise of “I’ll Cover You” is extremely powerful and emotional, and that’s all I can say. “Love Heals” played in the closing credits of the film version. The notes from the CD booklet say this: "Jonathan [Larson] wrote LOVE HEALS while working on RENT, to help in the efforts of Love Heals — the Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS education. Alison was one of the first heterosexual women to contract AIDS from a "one night stand." He wanted to help her and the organization in the best way he could: with music. Although not written for RENT, we have included this bonus track as a tribute to Jonathan and to help further the cause of AIDS education.”}
I’ll Cover You (Reprise) (from Rent, the Motion Picture)
Love Heals (Bonus Track) (from Rent, the Motion Picture)

{These are songs that are meaningful and powerful. Thanks to Kage Alan and Rainbow Sounds for helping me find these wonderful artists and songs.}
Say What You Want (from Non-Stop [Andy Bell])
Crucified (from Massive Luxury Overdose [Army of Lovers])

{These songs are very meaningful for me. "A Song for Mama" is very powerful. At my grandmother's funeral, they played this song, and now it represents the love that, not only I have for my mother, but for the mothers of my parents, and the mothers of my grandparents, and so on. I sang "You Raise Me Up" at my high school graduation. It was a very powerful moment for me, singing in front of hundreds of people, hundreds of families, at the EMU Convocation Center, representing the love we had as new high school graduates and burgeoning adults for the people in our lives who got us there. When my grandfather passed away, I was asked to sing this at his funeral, and at that moment it meant just as much, if not more. Family (biological or otherwise, chosen or not) is very important to me, and these two songs represent this very well.}
A Song for Mama (from Soul Food Motion Picture Soundtrack and Evolution [Boyz II Men])
You Raise Me Up (from Closer [Josh Groban])

{Other songs:}
Pop (from Celebrity [*NSync])
Everytime (from In The Zone [Britney Spears])
Taking Chances (from Taking Chances [Celine Dion])
Honest Questions (from Gotta Get Thru This [Daniel Bedingfield])
Stan (from The Marshall Mathers LP [Eminem])
It Don't Matter To The Sun (from Garth Brooks in... The Life of Chris Gaines [Garth Brook as Chris Gaines])
How Do I Feel (The Burrito Song) (from Hoku [Hoku])
Last Tears (from Despite Our Differences [Indigo Girls featuring Brandi Carlile])
Terrified (from Unbroken [Katherine Mcphee featuring Jason Reeves])
How Long Has This Been Going On? (from Let Yourself Go [Kristin Chenoweth, song from Rosalie])
Taylor, The Latte Boy (from As I Am [Kristin Chenoweth])
I Will Love Again (from Lara Fabian (English) [Lara Fabian])
Forgive Them Father (from The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill [Lauryn Hill])
Umbrella (acoustic cover of Rihanna [Mandy Moore])
Gay Bash (from The Movement [Melange Lavonne])
Reason (from Reason [Melanie C(hisholm) aka Sporty Spice from the Spice Girls])
God Is in the People (from The Awakening [Melissa Etheridge])
I Will (from Princess P [Paris Bennett])
Dear Mr. President (from I’m Not Dead [Pink])
The World (from Persona [Queen Latifah])
When You Love Someone Like That (from Reba: Duets and Family [Reba McEntire; LeAnn Rimes])
I’m A Survivor (from Greatest Hits: Vol. 3, I’m A Survivor [Reba McEntire])
Goodbye (from Forever [Spice Girls])
30 Minutes (from 200 KM/H in the Wrong Lane [t.A.T.u.])

Purpose (from Avenue Q, Original Cast Recording)
She Loves to Hear the Music (from The Boy From Oz, A Decca Broadway Original Cast Recording)
Listen (from Dreamgirls Motion Picture Soundtrack and B'Day Deluxe Edition [Beyonce])
I Am Changing (from Dreamgirls Original Cast Recording [Jennifer Holliday])
I Know Where I’ve Been (from Hairspray, Motion Picture Cast Recording [Queen Latifah & Cast])
His Eye Is on the Sparrow (hymn, also from Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, Soundtrack [Lauryn Hill and Tanya Blount])
A Deeper Love (from Greatest Hits (1980-1994) and Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, Soundtrack [Aretha Franklin])


I wish I could go into detail for every song, but I figure this is a pretty comprehensive (and already tiring) list. I hope you took the time to at least look through the song titles, recognize some favorites, and find some new favorites.

Thank you for reading.

Please visit http://facebook.com/jamestaylorjrmusic for the most current, up-to-date information about album progress, upcoming performances (there’s quite a few), and Rainbow Sounds.

Rainbow Sounds 12-06-2010! Next week, SEASON FINALE...

That's right, the end of the season came quickly, just as the Christmas season is beginning and the Hanukkah season is ending. NEXT MONDAY is the last episode of the season. I will let you know soon when the new season will begin. Appropriate, since it is the FIRST of the 12 days of Christmas. LoL.

Meanwhile, here is this week's playlist:

Sing (Jody Den Broeder Radio Edit) - Wynonna Judd
Back In Your Head (Tiesto Remix Edit) - Tegan and Sara
I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm (Stuhr Remix)
Please Don't Leave Me vs. Mr. Brightside vs. Boom Boom Pow - Pink vs. The Killers vs. Black Eyes Peas
I Know Him So Well (Almighty Club Edit) - Steps
Love Me Or Hate Me (Radio Edit) - Lady Sovereign
The Climb (Joe Bermudez & Chico Remix) - Miley Cyrus
Blue Kiss - Jane Wiedlin
Last Christmas - Cascada
E.T. vs. All The Things She Said - Katy Perry vs. t.A.T.u.
Need You Now (Jason Nevins Hands Up Mix) - Lady Antebellum
Americanos (Radio Mix) - Holly Johnson
Don't Fall In Love With a Homo (Uptempo Re-creation Mix) - Jonny McGovern
You Turn It On (The Spot Rockers Turn The Party Out Edit) - Jim Verraros
Strobelight (Tony Moran & Warren Rigg Radio Edit) - Kimberley Locke

Is DADT repeal Dead? Seems So...

Actress, Amber Heard come out!


LGBT Youth Acceptance is Critical on CNN.com
(with various links, plus quotes from students)


S/He Said on PrideSource
Cho/Palin Throwdown
JIMMY CHOO relaunches Men's line

Italians Sell Wine for AIDS
Huge grant ENCOURAGES HIV Prevention in SE Mich
Police Office Discloses Suspects HIV Status to ExGF
HIV Specific Law Manual AVAILABLE
GAYS should pay for AIDS RESEARCH?

Atlanta Settles w/ Gay Bar Raided in 2009

Holiday Albums & Reviews

If you'd like to cohost or contribute music, please email me at jtaylorj@emich.edu !

New season of Rainbow Sounds will be announced soon! Stay tuned next week for the season finale! Monday, 2-4pm/ EST ONLY on Eagle Radio!

Rainbow Sounds 11-29-2010

THANK YOU for listening to Rainbow Sounds. Here is the playlist from today's THANKS episode!

Thank God For Music - Patrick Cowley
Logical World - Charlotte Church
Thank You For Your Love - Antony and the Johnsons
Never Miss The Water - Chaka Khan ft Me'Shell Ndgeocello
Thankful - Josh Groban
Cotton Candy - Amanda Lepore
Thank You for Being a Friend - Andrew Gold
Poison - Bardot
Thank God for Kids - Kenny Chesney
Parentheses - The Blow
Thankful - Kelly Clarkson
Out, Out Damn Spot - Anthony Rapp
Thank You - Ledisi
He's on My Team (Scotty K Funked Up House Mix) - Ari Gold ft. Kendra Ross
Express - Christina Aguilera (Burlesque)
Thank God I Found You (Make It Last Remix) - Mariah Carey ft. Joe, Nas

There is no FULL SHOW podcast for this show. For some reason I was unable to receive a sound signal to the recording device. HOWEVER, I will, when I get a chance, post the entire MUSIC playlist as the podcast.

Ninth Circuit Court Panel on Prop 8 Appeal (Advocate article on Ninth Court Panel)
Reggae Artist Protested in Sacremento

Leslie Nielson passes at age 84
Fashion Model Transgender Woman to appear on Oprah

Portia de Rossi wants to BEAT RICKY MARTIN (in book sales)

Palin on daughter's Antigay Rant

Kenya Prime Minister: Arrest Gays!
Ugandan AntiGay Crusade (Previously posted on 11-22-2010)

UN Allows Countries to execute gays (Previously posted on 11-22-2010)
Lesbian Couple Comes Out in Botswana


This week's S/He Said on PrideSource/BTL

Lesbian Guesthouse WELCOMES ALL

NEW ARI GOLD SINGLE!

BURLESQUE!
Lady Bunny's Review :( SPOILER ALERT!!!

As always, if you're interested in co-hosting, contributing music, or just have questions or comments, take advantage of the various means of contact, or email me at jtaylorj@emich.edu !

Rainbow Sounds airs MONDAYS, 2-4pm/EST on http://eagleradio.org/!
Podcasts are available at http://rainbowsounds.libsyn.com/ !

Rainbow Sounds 11-22-2010

Today's playlist and links: ENJOY!

Black and Gold (Phones Hard As Diamonds Vocal Mix) - Sam Sparro
Beautiful Life - Ace of Base
Rain - Mika
Burning Up [Radio Edit] - Tony de Vit
Do You Wanna Be My Friend - Alex Swings Oscar Sings
Wait Another Day - Uh Huh Her
Give Me All Your Love - Ari Gold
Stand Up For Myself (The 1995 Remix) - Army of Lovers
Control Yourself (Lenny B Radio Edit) - Erin Hamilton
Will You Be There (Seamus Haji Radio Edit) - Andy Bell
Standing In The Way Of Control (Le Tigre Mix) - Gossip
Gave It All Away (toMOOSE Radio Remix) - BoyZone
Living On My Own (Radio Mix) - Freddie Mercury
Male Stripper - Man 2 Man
Holijandro (Barry Harris Mashup) - Madonna vs. Lady GaGa

Kage Alan (BLOG) (FACEBOOK) (The blog post featuring ME!)
OutPost Facebook
Gay Flag Burned at Albion College (Join the discussion on my FB WALL)
Anti-Gay Crusade in Uganda?
U.N. removes "sexual orientation" from international laws preventing arbitrary executions.
Clay Aiken Lobbies for Anti-Bullying Legislation
Jim Carrey Slams Letterman
Mr. Peanut is GAY?!

Would you like to cohost or contribute music? Do you have questions or comments for the host? Feel free to comment here, on one of the social networking sites linked to from above, email via the sidebar, or email jtaylorj@emich.edu !

Rainbow Sounds 11-15-2010

TOP 40 WEEK on Rainbow Sounds!

Bad Romance (Grum Remix) - Lady Gaga
Whataya Want From Me (Nevins Electrotek Radio Edit) - Adam Lambert
Pyramid (Barry Harris Radio Edit) - Charice
All the Lovers - Kylie Minogue
Freak-a-licious - TitusJones.com
Heartbeat (Rudi Wells Open Heart Mix) - Enrique Iglesias ft. Nicole Scherzinger
She Wolf (Extesizer Remix) - Shakira
Teenage Dream (Kaskade Club Mix) - Katy Perry
Breathe - Blu Cantrell ft. Sean Paul
If This Isn't Love (Stonebridge Remix) - Jennifer Hudson
Imma Stop Loving Drugs - TitusJones.com
Cooler Than Me - Mike Posner
Beautiful Liar (Freemasons Radio Edit) - Beyonce & Shakira
I Want To Know What Love Is (Low Sunday Tempo Mix) - Mariah Carey
Whitney Dance Megamix - Whitney Houston

Brandon Bitner Memorial Page
Brandon Bitner (Resources/Awareness)

Gay Teen jumps to Suspended Teacher's Defense

Two (LGBTQ) Groups favor severing DADT Repeal from Defense Bill
REPEAL DADT: CALL YOUR SENATORS!

S/He Said on PrideSource.com

You'd Better Work! RuPaul's Drag Race Returns!
RuPaul's Drag Race

Zombie Gay Porn?

From The LGBT Resource Center
GenderTalia: Celebrating and Honoring Gender Identity
November 18th, 2010 6:00pm-7:30pm
Room 310A in the Student Center
Eastern Michigan University
The LGBT Resource Center at Eastern Michigan University would like to invite you to take part of Gender-talia, which is an event in honor of Transgender Day of Remembrance and to celebrate gender identity. The program will consist of two parts:
The first part will include:
• A list of people who have lost their lives due to hate crimes because of Transgender identity
• A space to learn about important figures in our society who identify as Transgender
• Gender F***ing - an interactive gender role activity
• Terms and definitions surrounding the Transgender community
The second part of the event is an open mic session, where we are inviting people to come speak, sing, or perform their gender or what gender means to them. (Please note that you do not need to identify as Transgender to be a part of the open mic session.) We recognize that gender is different and unique for each individual, and this is what we will be highlighting in our open mic session.
If you can take part in this event, please respond to this e-mail no later than Monday, November 15th. We request that you provide us with the style of your participation (speaking, singing, etc.). There will be space for people to perform who have not signed up, but we would like to have a few concrete people that we know will be performing.
(LGBTRC@Emich.edu)
Jess Mulcahy
Student Program Coordinator
LGBT Resource Center
Diversity and Community Involvement
Eastern Michigan University
Mary Larkin (MLarkin@Emich.edu)
LGBT Resource Center Program Coordinator
Eastern Michigan University
340J Student Center
734-487-1075

I will be performing this Wednesday at Gigi's (16920 Warren / Detroit, MI) with the Performer's Awards of Detroit at 10:30PM! Big Fat Thanksgiving Show
Also, I will be performing in An Evening of Korean Folksongs / Artsongs, Thursday night, 7:30PM, in Pease Auditorium (Cross St/College Place) in Ypsilanti, MI.
Also, The Dan Rafferty Band will be at Billy's Tip 'N Inn (6707 Highland Rd. /White Lake, MI) Friday from 9:30pm - 1:30am.

Please join me every Monday at 2-4p/EST on EagleRadio.org for Rainbow Sounds. Listen to past episodes at the Rainbow Sounds Podcast.

If you'd like to cohost, contribute music, or just have questions or comments, feel free to leave messages here, any of the above social networking websites, email me via the sidebar, or email me at jtaylorj@emich.edu!

Random Playlist of the Day

Time for another playlist. Just a random playlist of some of the songs I've been listening to today.

I Do - Anastacia ft. Sonny (from P.O.D.)
Hip Hop Drama - Melange Lavonne
Coming Out of Hiding - RuPaul
EverGreen - Barbara Streisand
One Shot (7th Heaven Radio Edit) - The Saturdays
Devil Made Me Do It - RuPaul
Woof! - Tori Fixx
Not That Kind - Anastacia
Tonight - Cazwell

Also, I've recently joined FourSquare so you can find me when I'm performing, hosting, or just out and about having fun! I'll add that to the top list of sites, once I figure out what the heck I'm doing with it. LoL.

James

Rainbow Sounds 11-01-2010 TOMORROW IS ELECTION DAY!

That's right: tomorrow, it is time to vote! Not for President, but for Governor, Congress, HoR, and other local government positions. Please get out and vote tomorrow. Your vote MAKES a DIFFERENCE.

This week's playlist!

Firework (Liam Keegan Radio Edit) - Katy Perry

Bounce - LMFAO
Get Down On It - Blue
Common Reaction - Uh Huh Her
A Little Bit Of Action - Nadia
Lift Off - Patrick Cowley
Carry Out - Timbaland ft. Justin Timberlake
Pandora's Box - Stacey Q
Respect The Situation (2008) - Tori Fixx
Modern Kids - Hotel Persona ft. Brian Molko
Time After Time (J&C Radio Mix) -Cyndi Lauper
Welcome To My Head - Thunderpuss & Chris Barnes

The Best Thing About Me Is You - Ricky Martin ft. Joss Stone

Don't Ask Don't Tell is a discriminatory policy that has forfeited over 13,500 able-bodied men and women from our military while requiring others to hide who they are in order to serve their country. I strongly believe we must allow our military to recruit and retain any qualified, patriotic, and courageous American who wants to serve our country. During my service in the United States Navy Reserve, I served with many brave, patriotic, and dedicated men and women who were always ready to serve their country. I was never concerned about their sexual orientation, just their ability to serve the United States honorably."
- Congressman Gary Peters (D-MI), in a statement about the judicial decision to halt enforcement of the military's DADT policy, http://www.peters.house.gov, October 12.
on S/He Said on PrideSource.com
Republican "Joseph" Cao fights Family Research Council Hate Ad

October has ended but we still need to stay aware of
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Visit THE HOTLINE's website below for information and for LOCAL and NATIONAL services.
THE (National Domestic Violence) hotline.ORG
800 - 799 - SAFE
800 - 799 - 7233

Transgender Day of Rememberence
Chicago Lesbian & Gay International Film Festival
FIND HELP on FACEBOOK

A couple local events of interest:
Wednesday, 10pm at Gigi's in Detroit (16920 W Warren)
Performer's Awards of Detroit present DIVAS & ROCKSTARZ
Saturday, 2pm at MENJO's (928 W McNichol's) in Detroit.
Jim Ritchie Memorial
For more info call David at (734) 612 - 8777

Thank again to Martha Swartz for stopping by Eagle Radio.
Visit her FACEBOOK or TWITTER to connect.

Listen to Rainbow Sounds LIVE! Mondays, 2-4pm, on EagleRadio.org.
If you'd like to cohost, contribute music, or just have comments or questions, email me at jtaylorj@emich.edu.

Go VOTE:
Here's information from HRC on Voting
BTL offers a voting guide on all the candidates for your district in Michigan

So, here's the deal.

I have Monday's show all ready and lined-up.

Also, I will have a FACEBOOK EXCLUSIVE video on my musician page, so if you haven't "liked" me already, do so now! I will post it MONDAY! Also on Monday, I will hopefully be posting an additional podcast for those of you who have been missing the show! Since it will be NOVEMBER by then, hopefully I can get a couple podcasts up!

Meanwhile, it's Devil's Night, so be careful, and PLEASE behave. Too much rowdy behavior on a night like this can get out of hand, and lives (including the lives of our police officers and firefighters) can be lost.

Be careful out driving and trick-or-treating tomorrow night! Lots of love!

AND
HAPPY HALLOWEEEEEEEEN!!

Rainbow Sounds 10-25-2010

This week's playlist on RAINBOW SOUNDS!

I Don't Care (CN Remix) - Ricky Martin (Preview his new single here!)
Feedback - Janet Jackson (For Colored Girls [Movie])
Do Ya Wanna Funk - Patrick Cowley
Enjoy Music (Riva Starr Remix) - reboot
Acapella - Kelis
Calling Your Name - Marilyn
Woof! - Tori Fixx
Heartbreak (Make Me A Dancer) - Freemasons Ft Sophie Ellis Baxter
You Lost Me (Hex Hector Remix) - Christina Aguilera
One Foot Boy - Mika
Let's Turn the Night (Matt Pop Bootleg) - RuPaul
All You Ever Want (Radio Edit) - Deadmau5 ft. Billy Newton
Love Gun - Andreas Lundstedt
I Want It All (DJ D Major & Lindsay Luv) - Dangerous Muse
One Night Only (Intro Offer Nissim Remix) - DreamGirls (Jennifer Hudson)

Events at Eastern Michigan University THIS WEEK:

Town Hall with Virg Bernero "Education: Invest Now or Pay Later"
When: Monday, October 25, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Where: Eastern Michigan University Student Center

Times Talks with Heather Neff
When: Wednesday, October 27, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Where: EMU Student Center Room 300

Rainbow Variety Shown (LGBT Resource Center)
When: Thursday, October 28th, 8:oo p.m.
Where: EMU Student Center Auditorium

Memorial Service for Corey Jackson (Non-EMU event)
When: Saturday, October 30 · 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Where: Metropolitan Community Church of Detroit
2441 Pinecrest / Ferndale, MI

Chris Armstrong drops PPO against Andrew Shirvell
Gay people are like short people?
Justin Bieber bullied by 12-year-old, then by DJ host! That DJ host was more than a little rude!
Sesame Street's Bert: NOT GAY!
S/He Said at PrideSource

The article I was unable to read on air:
ANTIGAY ATTACK AT SEVEN-ELEVEN

Favorite sites:
The Trevor Project
It Gets Better Project
We Give A Damn

If you'd like to co-host, contribute music, or just have questions or comments, you can email me at jtaylorj@emich.edu or contact me via the sidebar or any of the links at the top of the page. Don't forget to listen to Rainbow Sounds, Mondays, 2-4pm/EST on Eagle Radio!

I am currently working on getting podcasts up. I've reach my limit for the month. Leave comments, do you prefer the music podcast, the full show podcast, or both?

Rainbow Sounds 10-18-2010

Discussed author Kage Alan's recent blog post: "Bullying: It Gets Better? Don't Wait For Then."
If you or someone you know needs someone to talk to or needs resources please visit:
The Trevor Project (866) 4 U TREVOR [(866) 4 88 - 73 86
Washtenaw Rainbow Action Project
EMU LGBT Resource Center

Here is this week's playlist!
Say What You Want - Andy Bell
Where I Am - Stacey Q
Menergy - Patrick Cowley
Sisters In The Struggle - Lesbians On Ecstacy
Ring Ring - Mika
Telephone (Ming Extended Remix) - Lady Gaga ft. Beyonce
Sing Halleluja (Starky Beat Mix) - Mark Medlock
Last Forever - Kim Petras
Give It Up (Tribalist III Radio Edit) - Kevin Aviance
Cotton Candy - Amanda Lepore
Figure It Out (Radio Mix) - Dave Aude ft Isha Coco
Wouldnit (I'm A Star) (Richard Morel Vocal Radio Edit) - Ono
Love Is a Hurricane (7th Heaven Remix) - BoyZone
Not A Love Song - Uh Huh Her
Wave of You - Ari Gold
Don't Go Breaking My Heart (Bass Bumpers Club Mix) - Elton John / RuPaul
My Turn (Vic's NYC Mix) - Yehonathan

The National Organization for Marriage used MLK in anti-gay political ad!
Justin Bieber to take Anti-Bullying Stand
Gay parents more like to raise gay kids? on AOL NEWS
QUEST: Facebook , Student Org

Fall Major Fest, Monday, October 18th, 2010
5-7pm, Student Success Network Annex (located beneath the Eateries)
Listen in at http://eagleradio.org/ !

Anti-Bullying SPEAK OUT & Vigil, Tuesday, October 19th, 2010
7-9pm, Student Center 300
"Join us in a safe space where we can talk about the effects of recent LGBT suicides, bullying and harassment, and what we can do to create safe schools. This event is open to ALL! Bullying goes far beyond the LGBT community. Join us."

SPIRIT DAY, Wednesday, October 20th, 2010, ALL DAY

Gender Matters, Wednesday, October 20th, 2010
3:30-5pm, Student Center 320

Coming Out / Being Out Support Group, EVERY WEDNESDAY
5-6pm, Student Center 347

QUEST, Politics Day, Wednesday, October 20th, 2010
7-9pm, Student Center 320

Times Talks w/ Dr. Heather Neff, Wednesday, October 27th, 2010
5pm, Student Center 300
Professor Heather Neff will be having an in-depth conversation about the "Don't Ask Don't Tell Policy" Wednesday Oct 27th, 5 p.m., room 300 Student Center. The Times Talks program is free and open to all students, faculty and staff. This LBC qualified event will also be providing free pizza and beverages to attendees. The Times Talks are sponsored by Student Government, the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, The Office of the Provost, and The EMU Student Center. For More information call 734.487.1470 or visit emich.edu/studentgov

RAINBOW VARIETY SHOW, Thursday, October 28th, 2010
8-10pm, Student Center Auditorium
Contact the LGBT Resource Center for more info!

If you'd like to cohost, contribute music, or just have questions or comments, please contact me via any of the links at the top of the page, the sidebar email, or at jtaylorj@emich.edu !

Listen to Rainbow Sounds every MONDAY, 2pm-4pm EST on Eagle Radio. Download the music or full show podcast after!

Rainbow Sounds 10-11-2010

HAPPY NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY!

Thanks for listening to Rainbow Sounds! If you missed this week's episode here is today's playlist!


Sexual Revolution - Army of Lovers
One Shot (7th Heaven Radio Mix) - The Saturdays
Ding Dong The Witch Is Dead - Alex Swings Oscar Sings
Tell Me Does She Love The Bass - Lesbians on Ecstacy
Tell My Why - Limahl
Bionic (Brian Cua Circuit Remix) - Christina Aguilera
Someone Like You - Sylvester
I Thought I Told You That - Anastacia Ft. Faith Evans
I Don't Feel Like Dancing (Linus Loves Vocal Edit) - Scissor Sisters
Hush Hush (Dave Aude Radio Edit) - Pussycat Dolls
Never Go Home Again (Matt Pop Amsterdam Jam) - RuPaul
Human - The Killers
Beautiful Monster - Ne-Yo
Never Again (Dave Aude Radio Edit) - Kelly Clarkson
I Don't Care (CN Remix) - Ricky Martin Ft. Fat Joe, Amerie *
Acapella - Kelis *
Enjoy Music (Riva Starr Remix) - reboot *
Make Me - Janet Jackson *
Step Into The Light (Hook N Sling Remix) - Darren Hayes
(*Songs in bold were not played on the FULL show, but you can find them on the Music Only version of the podcast.)



Listen to Rainbow Sounds on Eagle Radio Mondays, 2-4p/EST! If you'd like to cohost, contribute music, or just have questions or comments, you can email me via the sidebar or jtaylorj@emich.edu !


The NEW Podcast can be located HERE: Rainbow Sounds Podcast




Eastern Michigan University LGBT Resource Center
Wednesday, Oct 13th @ 3:30 in 310B Student Center
SAFE Campaign: Join your LGBTRC as we seek to create a campus climate that is inclusive off ALL individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. This is an interactive training that will certify you SAFE at EMU!
Wednesday, Oct 13th @ 7:00PM in the Student Center Ballroom
Dan Savage: Author of Savage Love and creator of the new IT GETS BETTER CAMPAIGN! Savage gives frank, funny advice on sex and relationships. Co-sponsored by Campus Life.
Thursday, Oct 14th at 8:00PM in 310B Student Center
The GAYme Show: Come out and play! It's a game show mash up...test your knowledge of LGBT related topics! Prizes and laughter included. Hosted by your LGBTRC!


The Trevor Project - *866 4 U TREVOR
*866 488 7386
If you or someone you know is considering suicide or just needs someone to talk to, please use the Trevor Lifeline listed above.


IT GETS BETTER


Eastern Echo: Spirit Day to honor recent homosexual suicide victims

By Kyle Wackrow



And to shut him the hell up: here is the link to friend to show, and author, Kage Alan's website.


Thanks again to Martha Swartz for cohosting. Reach her on Facebook & Twitter.

October 20th is SPIRIT DAY. Please wear PURPLE!

RS 10-04-2010

First, let me say that I am working on getting a better podcast posting. MEANWHILE, http://rainbowsounds.podomatic.com/ has the first week's podcasts, and I will CERTAINLY update when I've got all the podcasts up and running.

Here is this week's PLAYLIST for RAINBOW SOUNDS!

People Are People (Nicky Romero Remix) - Housequake
Telephone (Kaskade Radio Edit) - Lady Gaga ft. Beyonce
These Boots Are Made For Walking - Man 2 Man
Love Long Distance (Riva Starr Remix Radio Edit) - Gossip
Instant Replay - Dan Hartman
All For You (Dance Extended Version) - Ace of Base
Sway (Junkie XL) - Michael Buble
Haven't Met You Yet (Jason Nevins Radio Edit) - Michael Buble
I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Junior Vasquez Mix) - Whitney Houston
I Am Who I Am (Buzz Junkies Remix) - Lee Ryan
Do You Really Want To Hurt Me (12 in Disco Mix) - Culture Club
Love Is All There Is - Dana International
Show Me Love - Colton Ford
Human (Dr Brooks Gay Marriage Remix) - Ari Gold ft. Mr Man
Gay Bash - Melange Lavonne

Many of the articles used for today's show were found via The Advocate (Online).

LOG INTO FACEBOOK and click HERE FOR SPIRIT DAY!

Visit The Trevor Project for Suicide Resources. Do YOU or someone you know need to talk to someone? Call the Suicide Hotline @ 1-866-4-U-TREVOR (1-866-488-7386)!

FROM the http://emich.edu/lgbtrc!
Tues. Oct 5th @ 8PM 350 Student Center: Beyond the Binary (adapted from Robyn Ochs)
How do we assign labels to our complicated and unique experiences? What is the relationship between experience and self-identity? In this interactive program we explore different experiences of identity, the complexity of attraction and more.
Facilitated by Kathyrn Zeigler, Women & Gender Studies

Wed. Oct. 6th @ 6PM in Student Center Auditorium: Ignacio Rivera
Ignacio prefers the gender-neutral pronoun “they”. Topics include racism, sexism, homo/transphobia, transgender issues, anti-violence, sexual liberation, and more..
For more information: http://www.ignaciorivera.com/

Coming/Being OUT Support Group: Wednesdays @ 5pm, in SC 347. Contact scarney@emich.edu for more info!

MTV News: NYU Vigil for Gay Suicides

Angel Light Pictures (Donate on IndieGoGo.com)

Kathy Ireland on Twitter
Alliance for Christian Education
Make A Wish Foundation Challenge

Slightly Hilarious... \/ \/ \/ \/
UPDATED Top 14!!! Anti-Gay Activists Caught Being Gay

Detroit News update on Andrew Shirvell, anti-gay, harassing U of M student body president Chris Armstrong.
CNN news clip on PerezHilton.com

Thanks to Martha Swartz (Twitter / Facebook) for joining me on today's show!

You can listen Rainbow Sounds EVERY WEEK on Mondays from 2p-4p EST on Eagle Radio!

Rainbow Sounds, September 27th, 2010

Today's Playlist from Rainbow Sounds!

Say What You Want - Andy Bell
Call On Me (Hey Champ Remix) - Andy Bell
A Circus of Heartbreakin' Divas - A Titus Jones MASH UP
Everyman/Everywoman (Dave Aude Gay Radio Edit) - Yoko Ono
Why'd U Go? (DJ Moose Dance Remix) - (the) fundamentalists
If I Had You (Dangerous Muse Remix) - Adam Lambert
Gay Bash - Melange Lavonne
Peacock (Clean Edit) - Katy Perry
Rise (Georgie's Original Anthem Mix) - Cyon Flare
This Is It - Gioia Bruno
Ready Set Go (Tony Moran Radio Edit) - Kevin Aviance
Burning (Almighty Essential Radio Edit) - Alcazar
Happiness (Dave Aude Radio Edit) - Alexis Jordan
Say No More (Idan's Edit) - Aderet
Glam - Christina Aguilera

LGBT Resource Center
WRAP-UP - Click: "Interest Survey" (Deadline: 10/15/2010)
ThinkB4uUspeak.com

And the podcast... Rainbow Sounds podcast!
If you'd like to submit your music, cohost, or just have questions and comments, feel free to contact me via any of the means above, the email link on the right, or via jtaylorj@emich.edu !

Thanks!
James

DOUBLE DOSE

HEY, everyone!

OutFEST was a blast on Saturday, and I have a beautiful playlist of the songs that I performed. I performed a short set, but I had a great time, met a lot of great people, and, well, to be honest, I rocked! Ha ha. Hope everyone else thought so!

OutFEST, James Taylor, Jr.:

I Am What I Am (Gloria Gaynor)
Brave (Idina Menzel)
Lift Me Up (Christina Aguilera)
I Can Feel You (Anastacia)
The Climb (Miley Cyrus)
I Know Where I've Been (Hairspray)

Now here's the BRAND NEW PLAYLIST for today's episode of RAINBOW SOUNDS (presents Dance!)


“I Am What I Am” (Gloria Gaynor from La Cage Aux Folles by Jerry Herman)
“Say What You Want” (Andy Bell)
“Heavy Rotation” (Anastacia)
“Tonite (Day & To Nite Remix)” (Cazwell)
“Sway (Junkie XL Remix)” (Michael Buble)
“Fast Car” (Queen Latifah)
“Don’t Give Up” (Ferras)
“When Love Takes Over” (David Guetta ft Kelly Rowland)
“Drama Queen” (DQ, Eurovision 2007 song entry)
“Phantom of the Opera” (Harajuku ft Sarah Brightman from PotO by Andrew Lloyd Weber)
“Fire With Fire” (Scissor Sisters)
“Gorgeous (Gabriel Diggs Perfect 10 Remix)” (Idina Menzel)
“Coming Out of Hiding” (RuPaul)
“Younger Than You Are Tonight” (from Latter Days)
“I Will Love Again” (Lara Fabian)
“Crucified” (Army of Lovers)

And you can find the podcast at http://jtaylorj.podomatic.com/ !
If both podcasts are not up (Music & Full Show) please revisit the page later. I will try to post both as fast as possible.

If you'd like to cohost Rainbow Sounds, contribute music, or just have questions of comments, you can find a million ways to contact me or email me on this page or simply email me @ jtaylorj@emich.edu !

Thanks, James

Listen to Rainbow Sounds each Monday at 2pm-4pm on http://eagleradio.org/
Jane Lynch OUTS Julie Roberts? Tell me what you think!
Fill out this INTEREST SURVEY for WRAP!
What do you say to "That's So Gay"!?
NEXT WEEK, MARY LARKIN from the EMU LGBTRC. Yes, that's a lot of letters!

RAINBOW SOUNDS RETURNS!

FIRST, this Saturday, I am the opening act at OutFEST in Braun Court (on 4th street past Catherine in Ann Arbor). Performance is at 6:30.

MONDAY, yes, MONDAY: Rainbow Sounds returns for a second season... and this season Rainbow Sounds presents DANCE!

Join me MONDAY at 2pm to 4pm on http://eagleradio.org for the SEASON PREMIERE! And, as always, visit this blog after the show for a complete playlist!

Update 08/24/2010!

Yes, it's a REAL creative name, I KNOW! Haha.

Here's the sitch:

"Cruisin' Idol"- I did NOT make the top 4. Therefore, I did NOT perform at the Woodward Dream Cruise this past Saturday.

"UNKNOWN" - still available on digital retailers and in CD format from ME, CDBaby.com AND Common Language Bookstore in Ann Arbor.

I DID perform this past Saturday, but like I previously said, it was not at the Dream Cruise. It was at the /aut/ bar where I had a blast! There is a video up on http://youtube.com/tjamesk right now from that performance!

Also, I am working on an EP. 3-4 tracks. A different version of "I Am Here", a christmas song, and I'm thinking 1 song that I plan on putting on "Memories" and 1 song that will be for the EP only.

Questions and comments are welcome below. Or click EMAIL ME on the right side of this page!

James

CONCERT IS CANCELLED!

NEWS FROM TRACY MACK:

"I have some really bad news. I am so sorry to have to tell you this at the last minute but I am having to cancel the remainder of my shows for both Trillium summer concert series and Girls Night Aut.

It seems that we have lost the use of Sh\aut\ due to it being rented to the Blackbird Theatre. Normally for any of my outside shows Sh\aut\ is my backup in the case of bad weather...

We are currently looking for a new venue to keep the live music series going. When we finally find the new venue I will let you know in case you may want to perform.

Again, I am so sorry!!!! I don't like having to cancel at the last minute on anyone. However, due to the above circumstances and the fact that it is supposed to storm Saturday night I feel i'm left with no choice."
-TRACY MACK

THAT'S RIGHT! The concert THIS SATURDAY is CANCELLED. Sorry guys. I did edit this for the basic information, but please, no questions. Just spread the word that there is NO CONCERT this Saturday at BRAUN COURT. I will keep everyone updated on whether or not there will be an upcoming concert in Michigan.

THANKS,
James

P.S. PLEASE Continue spreading the word about WXYZ.com and vote for me for the Art Van Woodward Dream Cruisin' Idol!

WXYZ Detroit and Art Van PRESENT...

CRUISIN' IDOL! And guess who made the TOP 10!?

No...

Definitely not...

Maybe, I don't know her...

Okay, enough guessing...

ME!!!

I sent in a video of me singing "So Emotional" by Christina Aguilera and got picked to be in the top 10 for the Cruisin' Idol, Woodward Dream Cruise 2010! It's VERY exciting. So tomorrow (Saturday, August 7th), I will be driving to the Channel 7 studio in Southfield, MI, to record a video for "The Look" by Roxette which will THEN be posted on WXYZ.com. People will then be allowed to vote for their favorites, and the top 4 will perform at the Woodward Dream Cruise on August 21st!

So, MONDAY, start your voting! I will post a link as soon as I can, and you will also be able to find it on the FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE! So log onto FACEBOOK and click on the link!

You will also be able to see me perform August 14th, and "So Emotional" is a part of my second set. So come out to the Trillium Concert Series hosted by Tracy Mack and Trillium Real Estate to see me perform LIVE in Ann Arbor!

Lots going on... and lots more to come, I hope.
See you soon!
James

TRILLIUM in less than THREE WEEKS!

I can hardly believe that my concert (sponsered by Trillium Real Estate and hosted by Tracy Mack) is in less than 3 weeks! That's right, August 14th is 18 days away!! You can also by my CD at Common Language Bookstore which is in Braun Court (where the concert will be), across from Trillium Real Estate!

I am still preparing myself with material. I will be doing originals, such as "Weak Spot", "I Didn't Know", "We're Living In" (from "Unknown"), and "Unknown" (from "Unknown" OF COURSE)! I will also cover artists such as Melanie C, Christina Aguilera, John Barrowman, Britney Spears, Cher, and Mariah Carey.

You're all in for a treat!

Here's a video with a few clips from a performance I did with Cynthia Begeman (who just happens to be my sister, and featured on "Unknown")!

FUN and FABULOSITY!

My birthday bash was a blast, for those of you who are curious. It was HOWEVER moved from July 5th at Fifth Quarter to July 11th at Gigi's. I had a lot of fun and thanks to everyone who came out to Gigi's for the Karaoke MAAAAAADNEEESSSSSS!

The "Sizzlin' Summer" show, which was also at Gigi's on July 14th, was a blast, also! There were several shows that night, so the line-up and the crowd were ever changing, but I had great fun! I sang "So Emotional" by Christina Aguilera (which you may very well hear again), "Weak Spot" (an original), and "I Wanna Know What Love Is", the Mariah version that won me the "Strawberry Idol" title just last month! You can view ONE version of it on my YouTube page listed at the top of this blog!

Coming up Saturday, I will be attending the book signing and release for a very good friend of mine, Kage Alan. This is his 3rd book, and the 1st for a possible series, "Gaylias: Operation Thunderspell"! The release party/reading will be held at Affirmations in Ferndale at 3pm. RSVP or read more at the Facebook Event Page.

Don't forget that August 14th, less than one month away, I have my very first concert. It is hosted by Trillium Real Estate of Ann Arbor and, local musician, Tracy Mack. I'm working hard on narrowing down the musical selection. You'll hear some stuff you've seen on YouTube as well as plenty of new material. You'll have to be there to find out!

BIRTHDAY!

HOLLA!

Tomorrow (JULY 2nd) is my BIRTHDAY!!!

Join me MONDAY for my BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION at FIFTH QUARTER's DIVAOKE in ANN ARBOR!

And don't forget, July 14th, Sizzlin' Summer w/ the Performers Awards of Detroit at Gigi's!

STRAWBERRY IDOL!

I won my first ever title, everyone! Strawberry Idol 2010! Haha. Not much, but it's something!


Also, have a couple performances coming up. First, tentative concert in the planning Out-of-State.


July 14th, I will be performing and signing CDs at Gigi's in Detroit for the Performers' Awards of Detroit. Show starts at 10pm! $5 cover!


August 14th, I will be performing in the Trillium Concert Series with host (and
opening act) Tracy Mack. Show starts at 9pm in Braun Court. The show is OUTSIDE so it's free!


Hope to see you all there!

Concert & more releases...

AUGUST 14TH! Save the date... because I, [James Taylor, Jr.], am the featured artist for August's Trillium Concert Series, with host Tracy Mack.

Myspace Event page
Facebook Event page

Also, "Unknown" is now available on Amazon MP3. It is also available on Napster, but since I am not a member of Napster, I cannot give you a link for that.

You can buy "Unknown" at the links above as well as connect with me on my various pages!

Don't forget to listen to OUTing The Music Industry June 15th on http://blogtalkradio.com/gaymusic !

OUTing the Music Industry

HELLO again!

Here is an ANNOUNCEMENT! I am returning to RADIO! For one night! Haha. That's right, DJ Sir Rah has asked me to be a guest on his show, OUTing the Music Industry, part of the Gay Music Radio with Gay Music Revolution (Twitter). So, on Tuesday, June 15th, 2010, you can tune in on http://blogtalkradio.com/gaymusic to listen, chat, and call in, starting at 10pm/est!

I am very excited to speak with Sir Rah about "Unknown", performing, writing, and whatever else we come up with! I hope I do not disappoint.

Don't forget that "Unknown" is currently available on CDbaby, DigStation, iTunes, and on the right hand side of this screen.
IF YOU HAVE ORDERED A CD ON THIS PAGE and have NOT received confirmation from me, PLEASE EMAIL ME!

You will be able to hear tracks from "Unknown" on the show, June 15th.

JOIN US!

Buy UNKNOWN

There's a lot of ways to buy my new album "Unknown", with more to come.

First, you can buy DIRECTLY from me buy pressing the BUY button on the right side!

Second, you can buy it on DigStation.

And you can also buy it on CDbaby!

If you'd like to buy the PHYSICAL CD for 5.99, on CDbaby, it WILL be possible. For SOME strange reason, it won't let me change my settings, but keep checking back.

iTunes, Amazon mp3, and more to come soon!

James

Unknown / Memories (2010)

PLAYLIST!!

It's another Sunday and another Rainbow Sounds! Oh, wait... Rainbow Sounds ended in December... my bad. Anyhow, I wanted to share a playlist of songs that are hot in my mind (and media player) today... and lately.

Lately, I have been addicted to RuPaul's "Drag Race" album (basically a bunch of remixes from "Champion"). My favorite features French singer Tilly Key on the remix of "Jealous of My Boogie" called "J.O.M.B. 2.0 [RevoLucian's Redux]". It's a great track, a little variety from the original, a new voice, and its great to dance (or work out) to.

Right now, I am listening to:
We Are What We Are - The Other Ones (originally on Rainbow Sounds thanks to author Kage Alan)
The Saddest Part - Anastacia
The Man I Love - Etta James
There's Got to Be a Way - Mariah Carey
Where Do I Belong - Anastacia (I'm a big fan)
Who's Gonna Stop The Rain - Anastacia (did I mention I'm a fan)
Something About You - Ferras
I Do - Anastacia ft. Sonny Sandoval (of P.O.D. fame)
Ready for Love (Studio Version) - Michael Lynche (American Idol contestant, India.Arie song)
Both Sides Now - Joni Mitchell (also, check out the version by John Barrowman)

That is DEFINITELY not all I have playing, but I'll stop there...

In music news:

Anastacia IS working on a new album, although I haven't found a legitimate release date set for that.

Mariah Carey is ALSO working on TWO albums. "Angel's Advocate" (the remix album to "Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel") was scrapped after 4 out of the 5 singles release for "Memoirs"/"Angel's" did NOT chart Billboard's Top 100. Also, several sources say she's working on another Christmas album.

James Taylor, Jr. (gosh that names sounds familiar) will release "Unknown" this Tuesday, starting with Digstation.com and physical release. CDbaby, iTunes, Amazon, and other retailers to follow.

Until next time...

ALBUM RELEASE


"Unknown" (2010 release) should be available on May 11th, 2010.


"Memories" ?
Any questions?
James

I know it has been awhile since I've "officially" updated this blog. I am currently hard at work with writing, recording, cutting, and putting together "Memories", the upcoming album. I've also been trying to put together a 2010 release of "Unknown" featuring songs with and from Cynthia Begeman.
Meanwhile, check out some of the songs that may or may not end up making it onto "Memories". There's a lot of new material, some old material, and some old material mixed in with new material. Haha. Head over to my YouTube account to see what I've been working on!
Thanks for everything!
James

Nothing (James Taylor, Jr & Cynthia Begeman)



My song "Nothing".

1st version
Vocals: James Taylor, Jr.
Album: "Do You Understand" (2007)

2nd version
Vocals: Cynthia Begeman
Album: "Unknown" (2008)

Written and produced by James Taylor, Jr. (2nd version, additional production by Cynthia Begeman)

Cynthia can be found at:
http://www.myspace.com/cynthiasmusicmail
https://twitter.com/CynthiaBegeman

James can be found at:
http://jamestaylorjrmusic.blogspot.com/
http://myspace.com/jamestaylorjrmusic
http://twitter.com/james_taylor_jr
http://youtube.com/tjamesk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/James-Taylor-Jr/365626631239?ref=ts


Keep an eye out for "Memories", the next album by James Taylor, Jr., Spring/Summer 2010!

VOICE

I know it's been awhile since I've posted. SORRY!

So today's post is about the VOICE. This is my MUSIC BLOG. If you want to talk about music, let's talk about music education. Today, I taught my first voice lesson. It was an amazing experience watching and HEARING someone change in about an hour. I hope the gentleman takes a lot with him, and I can't wait to work with him again. He's a pretty good student. He works really hard. Sometimes that can be bad, so let's hope his application of what he learned today be positive, uplifting, and not weighing on his mind. Haha.

My student and I had a barrier, however. He knew nothing of music theory. Not Do-Re-Me, A-B-C, 1-3-5, nuthin'! He understood the concept of a chord, but didn't understand how it was constructed. He grasped concepts when I explained them, but of course it took explaining! That is okay, however. He is excited and willing to learn. He will be auditioning for the Music Therapy program and Eastern Michigan University (a great college, if I might say so) very soon. And he sings/plays in a band that was recently formed.

See, that's what I'm doing. I am helping people who just want to improve upon something they're already passionate about. Whether they're performers or karaoke singers.

Here's my ad on craiglist:

Wanna impress at Karaoke or improve your Vocals?

Want to impress your friends at Karaoke? Performing or competing? Do you sing pop or contemporary style music (dance, r&b, other non-classical forms)?

I am a student at EMU finishing up my MEDIA degree with a minor in MUSIC, Vocal performance. I am also a pop singer/vocalist. I've learned how to take what I learn in classical performance and apply it to contemporary musical forms. It's not that hard! And I want to help you!

Instrumentalists and non-instrumentalists are welcome. Sessions will average to about $20, at an hour to an hour and a half. Anything more, or less, is negotiable, including "outings" (open mics, karaoke, showcases, etc).

Classical training includes: Private lessons with Lindsay Kesselman (EMU), Glenda Kirkland (EMU), Karen Nevins (Lincoln HS)
Under the Choral direction of: Trey Jacobs (EMU), Karen Nevins (Lincoln HS), Cecile Settle (CCHS, Princeton, KY)
Recognized as part of MI's ALL STATE HONORS CHORUS 2004, currently performing in EMU's Chamber Choir.

Pop performance... 21 out of my 23 years.

If this sounds like it's for you, please contact me. We'll both have fun, and we'll both learn a lot! (Need group direction? Email me, and we'll talk).

Visit http://youtube.com/tjamesk for some of my previous performances.

And remember, it's not always about perfection: it's about giving it your all (and having fun, too)!

"Hysteria: Confusion" (An Original Song) LIVE! by James Taylor, Jr.

My original song, "Hysteria: Confusion". © James Taylor, Jr. 2010.

Live! at First Presbyterian in Birmingham, MI. Thanks to "Many Voices... One Song" for inviting me to their first ever Music Marathon. All donations from the MVOSMM went to Forgotten Harvest and Shelterbox.

Please visit me @
http://jamestaylorjrmusic.blogspot.com/
http://myspace.com/jamestaylorjrmusic
http://facebook.com/jtaylorj
http://twitter.com/james_taylor_jr
and
http://youtube.com/tjamesk

For more infomation, go to:
http://manyvoicesonesong.org/
http://www.forgottenharvest.org/
http://www.shelterbox.org/

If you did not attend, please visit these sites and see what wonderful work these organizations are doing. Consider donating, be it time or money, to help people around the world and in your OWN neighborhood.

Thanks for watching!

Haze by James Taylor, Jr. ©

An original song. Beware (and nice about) anything that seems like an error or pause. I was playing it by memory. I did it in one take! And by one take, I mean that I didn't stop the camera and it took me three tries to finally get through the first chorus... Haha. I hope you enjoy this. Thanks to everyone who has been watching and commenting on all of my pages. I love all of you!

http://jamestaylorjrmusic.blogspot.com/
http://myspace.com/jamestaylorjrmusic
http://facebook.com/jtaylorj
http://facebook.com/#!/pages/James-Ta...
http://twitter.com/james_taylor_jr
http://youtube.com/tjamesk

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