Shine on, Ms. Houston

One of the most awarded, best-selling female vocalists of our time is back after nearly seven years out of the spotlight (not counting the times she made headlines in association with her troubled husband). Whitney Houston’s highly anticipated album “I Look to You” hit stores Aug. 31, and the singing superstar appeared this morning on “Good Morning America.”

Many critics have called her album “safe” and claim it falls far short of the old Whitney.

No the album doesn’t exactly have a that reaches the “I Will Always Love You” caliber, it is a very strong album. Not the old Whitney? I call that evolution.

Critics have also given her GMA performance poor reviews, pointing out the times her voice cracked or when she sounded hoarse.

It seemed to me she was just overcome with emotion. The emotion was especially apparent during her performance of “I Look to You,” the albums title ballad, which she dedicated to her mother who was present at the GMA concert.

Bottom line, I’m glad Whitney’s back. I commend anyone who has the strength to bounce back from drugs — or “partying” in her words — divorce and other personal demons.

This is her moment. Let her shine, y’all.

Here’s a video link to part of her GMA performance.

Whitney Houston’s ‘Million Dollar…

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An Icon Remembered

We at MochaMusings, along with the rest of the world, are in a state of shock and mourning the loss of one of the greatest entertainers to have ever lived — Michael Jackson, the King of Pop. Though his eccentric personal life was sometimes clouded with controversy, his musical genius cannot be denied. He inspired nations with his art and his soul will forever live on through his music. R.I.P. MJ. Thank you for blessing the world with your talent!

Here are a couple of our favorite MJ performances:

 

Also, RIP Farrah Fawcett, America’s Angel.

Open Mic Event

Last week I attended an event at J.R. Crickets restaurant featuring spoken word artist, musicians and singers.  I will be honest, I was not sure what to expect.  J.R. Crickets is known for their great wings and ribs.  I had no idea they did events on certain nights.  I found out they have this particular event every first and third Thursday.  They also have Texas Hold-em poker, Karaoke, and other live music on certain days.

I was impressed with the event on Thursday held by Rhythm of Life Entertainment.  The MC was very entertaining.  He even recited some of his own work.  The performances were great.  Three artists performed separately.  Two played instruments while singing.   The spoken word artists were awesome!  They covered a variety of topics.  Several left us thinking when they got off the stage.  There was a lot of talent in the building.

I love open mic event and live performances.  I am glad I attended this event.  I plan to attend others that Rhythm of Life holds.  The event was well organized and proceeded without long pauses.  There was a mixture of talent and great environment.