The Weeknd has been named as one of TIME Magazine’s most influential people of 2020. “This year, I met Abel Tesfaye, who performs as the Weeknd, at an Oscars party,” penned music legend Elton John in a special tribute to the artist. “He has so many different types of music tucked up his sleeve that he incorporates into his vision. He’s not interested in commerciality for commerciality’s sake, but he’s one of the biggest streaming artists on Spotify. Like Prince, he marches to his own beat. That’s an exemplary way for an artist to be.” These words en – capsulate the very essence of an ideal artist, setting a benchmark for all those who aspire to influence and bring about change through their music.
“Mood” is one of my favourite Billboard entries as it moves up to the 5th spot. This song earns Iann Dior his career’s first Hot 100 entry and 24KGoldn his second, after 2019’s “Valentino”. Energetic hi-hats and a sunny guitar riff in tandem with lyrics that could be classified as sometimes morose make for a surprisingly catchy song that has caught the imagination of the masses. “One Too Many”, Keith Urban’s duet with Pink debuts the 62nd spot currently, and this funky mid-tempo ballad is sure to keep moving up on the charts.
I am thrilled to share recommendations from my young readers in this edition. Not surprisingly “No Time to Die” by Billie Eilish is a popular pick as the theme song for the muchawaited James Bond movie. Another recommendation includes the dramatic “Bella Ciao” with its Italian roots, that features on «Money Heist», the iconic show on Netflix. “Bella Ciao” or “Goodbye Beautiful”, has strong historical roots and was originally sung by Italian women as they worked in the fields. Used worldwide a s a hymn for freedom, it has now become a song of solidarity during the pandemic with many Italians singing this song on their balconies and sharing clips on Instagram. “Smile” a song by The Weeknd in collaboration with the late rapper Juice WRLD is a first-time team up by the artists. It is ironic that in this contemplative song Juice WRLD raps about bringing joy to someone he loves even if it means he is not in the person’s life.
The song I have been listening to is Tina Turner’s upbeat and riveting “What’s Love Got To Do With It”. The energy and powerful vocals are nothing short of explosive. “110” by J.A.I.V is now out on popular streaming platforms. If you are looking for a foottapping song to play on repeat, I am hoping this might be the one for you! Do keep your recommendations coming in till we meet again next month! Follow J.A.I.V on your favourite streaming platforms.
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