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Article: Launch of Summer Collection for Street Fashion Brand - Vogue De Rue by 8TIES
Hit the Street with Vogue Vibes and Cool Threads in Vogue De Rue by 8TIES
Get ready to elevate your street style with the latest drop from Since80s! Introducing "Vogue De Rue by 8TIES," our summer collection that promises to redefine urban fashion. Inspired by hip-hop culture, contemporary art, and a personal journey through the fashion world, this collection blends simplicity, style, and street elements that are sure to turn heads.
The Origins of Since80s: Music, Art, and Fashion
Since80s clothing was founded by Kevin Delhaye, a beatmaker turned fashion visionary. Kevin's journey began in the early 80s, the birthdate of hip-hop. Having collaborated with iconic artists and graphic designers like Alchemist, Schoolboy Q, and Curren$y, Kevin decided to channel his creative talents into fashion. Since80s is more than just a brand; it’s an organic fusion of music, art, and minimalist fashion, translating life experiences into vibrant, wearable art.
Introducing Vogue De Rue by 8TIES
The new summer collection, "Vogue De Rue by 8TIES," which translates to "Street Vogue" in French, draws inspiration from Kevin’s childhood. "When I was between 8 and 12 years old, I watched a lot of MTV shows and saw hip-hop celebrities wearing amazing brands in Vogue Magazine. That inspired me to create my own Vogue with a street twist," says Kevin. The collection includes heavyweight T-shirts in cream and anthracite, and knitted socks, combining style and comfort.
Made from 100% cotton for the T-shirts and a 90% cotton/10% nylon blend for the socks, each piece is designed to provide a regular fit that feels as good as it looks. The standout design, a collage of vintage women reflecting glamour, abstract art, and intrigue, was created by one of Kevin’s favourite graphic designers. "All my art is freestyle," the designer explains. "I was inspired by a lot of magazines from the 70s, and sometimes I just have the drive to go with the flow. This was an unplanned process - just creating."
Who’s It For?
Our collection is unisex, aimed at casual streetwear enthusiasts, art lovers, appreciators of fashion, dreamers and doers, all around the globe. It's perfect for those who appreciate style with substance, offering outfits that can also be effortlessly paired with shorts and socks for a chic summer look.
Why Choose Since80s?
In a world dominated by big brands, Since80s offers a fresh perspective. "I'm not reinventing the wheel; all I do is bring my own perspective to the fashion subject," says Kevin. Since80s stands proudly alongside established names like Stussy, offering unique, stylish alternatives for your wardrobe. Our campaign is set in the Democratic Republic of Congo, honouring Kevin's ancestral roots. Despite the ongoing challenges and conflict, we strive to highlight the country's beauty, rich nature, diverse culture, and vibrant youth, showcasing all that the Congo has to offer.
Join the Movement
Don’t miss out on our latest collection! Visit www.since80sclothing.com to explore "Vogue De Rue by 8TIES" and enjoy 15% off your first order. Follow us on Instagram @since80sclothing for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more.
Since80s is more than just a brand—it's a movement. With testimonials praising the quality, colors, and independence of our pieces, it's clear that Since80s is making waves in the fashion world. Embrace the fusion of music, art, and fashion this summer with our collection, Vogue De Rue by 8TIES, and make a statement that goes beyond the ordinary.
Get ready to elevate your street style with the latest drop from Since80s! Introducing "Vogue De Rue by 8TIES," our summer collection that promises to redefine urban fashion. Inspired by hip-hop culture, contemporary art, and a personal journey through the fashion world, this collection blends simplicity, style, and street elements that are sure to turn heads.
The Origins of Since80s: Music, Art, and Fashion
Since80s clothing was founded by Kevin Delhaye, a beatmaker turned fashion visionary. Kevin's journey began in the early 80s, the birthdate of hip-hop. Having collaborated with iconic artists and graphic designers like Alchemist, Schoolboy Q, and Curren$y, Kevin decided to channel his creative talents into fashion. Since80s is more than just a brand; it’s an organic fusion of music, art, and minimalist fashion, translating life experiences into vibrant, wearable art.
Introducing Vogue De Rue by 8TIES
The new summer collection, "Vogue De Rue by 8TIES," which translates to "Street Vogue" in French, draws inspiration from Kevin’s childhood. "When I was between 8 and 12 years old, I watched a lot of MTV shows and saw hip-hop celebrities wearing amazing brands in Vogue Magazine. That inspired me to create my own Vogue with a street twist," says Kevin. The collection includes heavyweight T-shirts in cream and anthracite, and knitted socks, combining style and comfort.
Made from 100% cotton for the T-shirts and a 90% cotton/10% nylon blend for the socks, each piece is designed to provide a regular fit that feels as good as it looks. The standout design, a collage of vintage women reflecting glamour, abstract art, and intrigue, was created by one of Kevin’s favourite graphic designers. "All my art is freestyle," the designer explains. "I was inspired by a lot of magazines from the 70s, and sometimes I just have the drive to go with the flow. This was an unplanned process - just creating."
Who’s It For?
Our collection is unisex, aimed at casual streetwear enthusiasts, art lovers, appreciators of fashion, dreamers and doers, all around the globe. It's perfect for those who appreciate style with substance, offering outfits that can also be effortlessly paired with shorts and socks for a chic summer look.
Why Choose Since80s?
In a world dominated by big brands, Since80s offers a fresh perspective. "I'm not reinventing the wheel; all I do is bring my own perspective to the fashion subject," says Kevin. Since80s stands proudly alongside established names like Stussy, offering unique, stylish alternatives for your wardrobe. Our campaign is set in the Democratic Republic of Congo, honouring Kevin's ancestral roots. Despite the ongoing challenges and conflict, we strive to highlight the country's beauty, rich nature, diverse culture, and vibrant youth, showcasing all that the Congo has to offer.
Join the Movement
Don’t miss out on our latest collection! Visit www.since80sclothing.com to explore "Vogue De Rue by 8TIES" and enjoy 15% off your first order. Follow us on Instagram @since80sclothing for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more.
Since80s is more than just a brand—it's a movement. With testimonials praising the quality, colors, and independence of our pieces, it's clear that Since80s is making waves in the fashion world. Embrace the fusion of music, art, and fashion this summer with our collection, Vogue De Rue by 8TIES, and make a statement that goes beyond the ordinary.
Concert Review: Rebecca Winter at Cokobar London
Meet Rebecca Winter, a black British-Nigerian superstar poised to dominate the Afrobeats scene in the UK and beyond. Her electrifying headline show at the renowned Cokobar London in October highlighted her immense talent and brought a powerful wave of #girlpower with her all-female lineup (including an incredible spoken word artist in the middle of her set!)
Having seen Winter perform as a supporting act before, I knew she delivered stellar performances with sleek dance moves that complemented her effortless vocals and Afrobeat productions. However, this headline performance surpassed all expectations—it was a spectacle reminiscent of Beyoncé’s early tours, filled with energy and flair.
From her stunning outfit and accessory choices to the dynamic dance breaks during syncopated instrumental sections, Winter made a hot impact on a cold autumn evening in London. The setlist spanned from upbeat, high-energy tracks to heartfelt, sultry ballads, showcasing her impressive vocal flexibility. Despite the small stage, Rebecca Winter, her band, and dancers utilised every inch, giving us an engaging performance.
Standing right at the front, I made eye contact with several of the performers, who shared smiles that mirrored the meaningful and fun lyrics, exuding pride and joy. Winter's musicianship and stage presence were unmatched, far surpassing the opening acts, who had already done such a brilliant job getting the crowd energised.
The audience remained captivated throughout the performance, thanks to Winter’s charismatic engagement and a little help from rising spoken-word star - Chloe. Despite a delayed entrance and a swift, slightly abrupt exit, Rebecca Winter said she came to slay—and that, she did.
Rebecca Winter’s ability to command the stage, engage the audience, and deliver an unforgettable performance cements her place as a rising force in the Afrobeats scene. Do not forget her name; she is destined for success.
Having seen Winter perform as a supporting act before, I knew she delivered stellar performances with sleek dance moves that complemented her effortless vocals and Afrobeat productions. However, this headline performance surpassed all expectations—it was a spectacle reminiscent of Beyoncé’s early tours, filled with energy and flair.
From her stunning outfit and accessory choices to the dynamic dance breaks during syncopated instrumental sections, Winter made a hot impact on a cold autumn evening in London. The setlist spanned from upbeat, high-energy tracks to heartfelt, sultry ballads, showcasing her impressive vocal flexibility. Despite the small stage, Rebecca Winter, her band, and dancers utilised every inch, giving us an engaging performance.
Standing right at the front, I made eye contact with several of the performers, who shared smiles that mirrored the meaningful and fun lyrics, exuding pride and joy. Winter's musicianship and stage presence were unmatched, far surpassing the opening acts, who had already done such a brilliant job getting the crowd energised.
The audience remained captivated throughout the performance, thanks to Winter’s charismatic engagement and a little help from rising spoken-word star - Chloe. Despite a delayed entrance and a swift, slightly abrupt exit, Rebecca Winter said she came to slay—and that, she did.
Rebecca Winter’s ability to command the stage, engage the audience, and deliver an unforgettable performance cements her place as a rising force in the Afrobeats scene. Do not forget her name; she is destined for success.
Talent Spotlight Feature Article: Lydia Maddix - Paving the Way for Diversity in the UK Pop Scene
In the heart of London's dynamic music scene, a rising star is making waves with her pop vocal performance, masterful guitar skills, and captivating storytelling. Meet Lydia Maddix, a funny, creative pop artist who is not just creating music but sparking a movement towards greater diversity and inclusion within the UK pop scene.
Lydia's journey as a musician began at a young age, growing up and being immersed in a range of musical influences. From the vibrant sounds of jazz to the raw energy of underground artists, she soaked in this musical essence which has clearly shaped her into the artist she is today.
What sets Lydia apart is not just her talent but her unwavering commitment to authenticity. In an industry and a genre where diversity is still a rarity, Lydia is fearlessly carving out her own space, unapologetically embracing her identity as a black woman and using her platform to amplify underrepresented voices.
At the core of Lydia's music and mutimedia design lies a powerful message of empowerment, and self-expression. Through her original songs and unique covers, she tells tales of love, loss, and the human experience, inviting listeners to journey alongside her through the highs and lows of life.
But Lydia's impact goes beyond the confines of the stage. As a visual artist and storyteller, she also uses the power of video to bring her music to life in vivid technicolor. From mesmerizing music videos to thought-provoking visual artistry, she can create immersive experiences that really resonates with audiences.
One of Lydia's greatest strengths lies in her ability to seamlessly blend genres and defy traditional labels. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of musical influences, from folk to indie pop, she creates a sound that is uniquely her own.
From intimate gigs across London to festival showdows, Lydia's presence is electric, her performances leave audiences hungry for more. With each strum of her guitar and every note that escapes her mouth, she challenges preconceived notions of what a pop artist should be, inviting listeners to broaden their horizons and embrace the beauty of something new.
...
As she continues to write her own story and inspire others to do the same, the future of the UK pop scene has never looked brighter.
Lydia's journey as a musician began at a young age, growing up and being immersed in a range of musical influences. From the vibrant sounds of jazz to the raw energy of underground artists, she soaked in this musical essence which has clearly shaped her into the artist she is today.
What sets Lydia apart is not just her talent but her unwavering commitment to authenticity. In an industry and a genre where diversity is still a rarity, Lydia is fearlessly carving out her own space, unapologetically embracing her identity as a black woman and using her platform to amplify underrepresented voices.
At the core of Lydia's music and mutimedia design lies a powerful message of empowerment, and self-expression. Through her original songs and unique covers, she tells tales of love, loss, and the human experience, inviting listeners to journey alongside her through the highs and lows of life.
But Lydia's impact goes beyond the confines of the stage. As a visual artist and storyteller, she also uses the power of video to bring her music to life in vivid technicolor. From mesmerizing music videos to thought-provoking visual artistry, she can create immersive experiences that really resonates with audiences.
One of Lydia's greatest strengths lies in her ability to seamlessly blend genres and defy traditional labels. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of musical influences, from folk to indie pop, she creates a sound that is uniquely her own.
From intimate gigs across London to festival showdows, Lydia's presence is electric, her performances leave audiences hungry for more. With each strum of her guitar and every note that escapes her mouth, she challenges preconceived notions of what a pop artist should be, inviting listeners to broaden their horizons and embrace the beauty of something new.
...
As she continues to write her own story and inspire others to do the same, the future of the UK pop scene has never looked brighter.
Print Magazine Article: Breakdown of Relationships
Publication: Youngers Magazine
Social psychologists have searched to come up with reasons and causes for the breakdown of relationships. The research has been beneficial for real life situations as we now see relationship break down being prevented via counselling.
In 1991, a psychologist called Duck devised 3 reasons why relationships break down. Firstly, there is a lack of skills. For example, if somebody lacks poor social skills, they will not be able to express their feelings to their partner or to others in a social setting, and this can cause dissatisfaction in a relationship.
Secondly, there is the lack of stimulation due to a lack of communication. In 1994, Psychologist Baxter conducted some questionnaires and found boredom was a main factor of why relationships broke down. individuals would feel the relationship is not going anywhere and without stimulation, which is a rewarding factor in relationships, the relationship will break down.
Lastly, if there are maintenance difficulties, the relationship is at risk. Shaver et al found students going off to university tended to have a breakdown in their relationship because they could not reunite regularly. The relationship can not be rewarding for those involved if there is no regular contact, so the relationship breaks down.
It is clear that poor communication is the root of a break up. The more you talk, the stronger your relationship will be! This applies to friendships, families, work relationships, church relationships and our very own personal relationship with God.
1 Chronicles 16:11 tells us to “seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.” Talk to Him daily before you find yourself going through stages of a break up. God is there all the time when we need Him, so just take some time out of your day to have a chat, improve your communication skills, stimulate your brain and reunite regularly with Him. Not sure how to communicate? Close this magazine and Look at the very last page for some ideas.
Social psychologists have searched to come up with reasons and causes for the breakdown of relationships. The research has been beneficial for real life situations as we now see relationship break down being prevented via counselling.
In 1991, a psychologist called Duck devised 3 reasons why relationships break down. Firstly, there is a lack of skills. For example, if somebody lacks poor social skills, they will not be able to express their feelings to their partner or to others in a social setting, and this can cause dissatisfaction in a relationship.
Secondly, there is the lack of stimulation due to a lack of communication. In 1994, Psychologist Baxter conducted some questionnaires and found boredom was a main factor of why relationships broke down. individuals would feel the relationship is not going anywhere and without stimulation, which is a rewarding factor in relationships, the relationship will break down.
Lastly, if there are maintenance difficulties, the relationship is at risk. Shaver et al found students going off to university tended to have a breakdown in their relationship because they could not reunite regularly. The relationship can not be rewarding for those involved if there is no regular contact, so the relationship breaks down.
It is clear that poor communication is the root of a break up. The more you talk, the stronger your relationship will be! This applies to friendships, families, work relationships, church relationships and our very own personal relationship with God.
1 Chronicles 16:11 tells us to “seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.” Talk to Him daily before you find yourself going through stages of a break up. God is there all the time when we need Him, so just take some time out of your day to have a chat, improve your communication skills, stimulate your brain and reunite regularly with Him. Not sure how to communicate? Close this magazine and Look at the very last page for some ideas.
Blog Post: Turn up your inner Kanye
Blog Site: Incredible Brilliant Youth
On a scale of one to ten, how Kanye do you feel today? That’s a question I’ve
recently been asking myself before I do something out of my comfort zone. That's since
having a great eye-opening session with the IBY youth board. Teresa Reynolds,
founder of IBY, put forward this notion of an “inner Kanye” and after a few minutes of
self-love brainstorming, it was fantastic to see how many positive things
we had to say about ourselves. I have really turned up my inner Kanye since then! But what does that mean for someone who isn't Kanye?
Over the years, Ye has been seen doing things one might consider a tad... unconventional, but one aspect you can’t deny is that Kanye loves Kanye! He genuinely believes: (get your best rap voice ready) he's the best of the best and nobody can test, because he's the incredible Kanye West. This mindset has also led him to achieve significant success, have ‘the biggest ego known to man’ (type that in Google Images and I’m sure he’ll come up) and also believe sweeping smug statements like this:
“I am God’s vessel. But my greatest pain in life is that I will never be able to see myself perform live.” – Kanye West (VH1 Storytellers, February 2009)
Now, I’m not saying you need to be exactly like Kanye and annoy those around you with how much of a god you are, but think about how you would feel if you gave yourself a confidence boost and just turned up your inner Kanye a little each day...
On a scale of one to ten, how Kanye do you feel today? That’s a question I’ve
recently been asking myself before I do something out of my comfort zone. That's since
having a great eye-opening session with the IBY youth board. Teresa Reynolds,
founder of IBY, put forward this notion of an “inner Kanye” and after a few minutes of
self-love brainstorming, it was fantastic to see how many positive things
we had to say about ourselves. I have really turned up my inner Kanye since then! But what does that mean for someone who isn't Kanye?
Over the years, Ye has been seen doing things one might consider a tad... unconventional, but one aspect you can’t deny is that Kanye loves Kanye! He genuinely believes: (get your best rap voice ready) he's the best of the best and nobody can test, because he's the incredible Kanye West. This mindset has also led him to achieve significant success, have ‘the biggest ego known to man’ (type that in Google Images and I’m sure he’ll come up) and also believe sweeping smug statements like this:
“I am God’s vessel. But my greatest pain in life is that I will never be able to see myself perform live.” – Kanye West (VH1 Storytellers, February 2009)
Now, I’m not saying you need to be exactly like Kanye and annoy those around you with how much of a god you are, but think about how you would feel if you gave yourself a confidence boost and just turned up your inner Kanye a little each day...
Blog Post Article: #NeighbourPrinciple: Would you like a snail with that drink?
Blog: The Trendy Lawyer
Anybody interested in a legal career is going to have to hear about the infamous “snail-in-the-drink” case, known officially as Donoghue v Stevenson [1932] AC 562. This is the case that expanded tort law and introduced the ‘neighbour principle’ – the duty to take care to not harm your neighbours. Tort law covers cases where someone’s wrongdoing has caused loss to another and a contract is not required for parties making a tort law claim.
The Donoghue v Stevenson case
Let me set the scene with the facts of the case that changed the face of tort law. Mrs Donoghue was with her friend in a cafe, sipping on some ginger beer that her friend had just bought her. All was going well until she began to feel ill before even finishing the drink. Why? I hear you ask. Well, this was because there was a dead snail in it!
As Mrs. Donoghue did not buy the drink herself, she could not sue for breach of contract (see how important facts are in law, down to the penny spending), so instead she brought forward a negligence claim. She claimed the manufacturers had a duty of care to make the bottles in a clean place that would not allow snails to get in.
In the case, Lord Atkin declared a significant statement saying, that we have a duty towards “persons who are so closely and directly affected by my act that I ought reasonably to have them in contemplation as being so affected when I am directing my mind to the acts or omissions that are called in question”. So #TakeCare.
And so the ‘neighbour principle’ was born and set for case law moving forward. So could an innocent act you’re doing, such as mopping a floor at work, impact a passer-by?...
Anybody interested in a legal career is going to have to hear about the infamous “snail-in-the-drink” case, known officially as Donoghue v Stevenson [1932] AC 562. This is the case that expanded tort law and introduced the ‘neighbour principle’ – the duty to take care to not harm your neighbours. Tort law covers cases where someone’s wrongdoing has caused loss to another and a contract is not required for parties making a tort law claim.
The Donoghue v Stevenson case
Let me set the scene with the facts of the case that changed the face of tort law. Mrs Donoghue was with her friend in a cafe, sipping on some ginger beer that her friend had just bought her. All was going well until she began to feel ill before even finishing the drink. Why? I hear you ask. Well, this was because there was a dead snail in it!
As Mrs. Donoghue did not buy the drink herself, she could not sue for breach of contract (see how important facts are in law, down to the penny spending), so instead she brought forward a negligence claim. She claimed the manufacturers had a duty of care to make the bottles in a clean place that would not allow snails to get in.
In the case, Lord Atkin declared a significant statement saying, that we have a duty towards “persons who are so closely and directly affected by my act that I ought reasonably to have them in contemplation as being so affected when I am directing my mind to the acts or omissions that are called in question”. So #TakeCare.
And so the ‘neighbour principle’ was born and set for case law moving forward. So could an innocent act you’re doing, such as mopping a floor at work, impact a passer-by?...
Blog post: “I’m a lawyer, check out my shoes!”
Blog: The Trendy Lawyer
Each time I’m offered an interview or work experience in the legal sector I ensure I know the dress code before my arrival. Generally, you must be smart and polished, especially as a future upholder of the law, and if you’re looking to play a key part in the UK jurisdiction in the future, smart is the way to go!
With that being said, we are moving towards an age of comfort, and in some offices that means casual wear and relaxed clothing. While the legal industry does not seem to be changing, there are still ways for women to look the part and feel comfortable and relaxed at the same time - shoes are a big part of this.
Court heels should be closed-toe or dress shoes in a simple (not attention-grabbing) colour. Think black, grey, navy, or nude along with plain hosiery. This is perfect for any lgeal networking or formal events as well as interviews.
If it is a more business casual setting, some flat leather shoes, loafers or low heeled shoes will work well, or sandals (depending on the weather). So long as you put your best foot forward... in good-condition shoes, you'll make a great first impression.
Avoid anything too attention seeking from platform heels to brightly coloured trainers or flip flops. (You would think I wouldn’t need to mention this, but I have seen some interesting choices at legal events I’ve attended.)...
Each time I’m offered an interview or work experience in the legal sector I ensure I know the dress code before my arrival. Generally, you must be smart and polished, especially as a future upholder of the law, and if you’re looking to play a key part in the UK jurisdiction in the future, smart is the way to go!
With that being said, we are moving towards an age of comfort, and in some offices that means casual wear and relaxed clothing. While the legal industry does not seem to be changing, there are still ways for women to look the part and feel comfortable and relaxed at the same time - shoes are a big part of this.
Court heels should be closed-toe or dress shoes in a simple (not attention-grabbing) colour. Think black, grey, navy, or nude along with plain hosiery. This is perfect for any lgeal networking or formal events as well as interviews.
If it is a more business casual setting, some flat leather shoes, loafers or low heeled shoes will work well, or sandals (depending on the weather). So long as you put your best foot forward... in good-condition shoes, you'll make a great first impression.
Avoid anything too attention seeking from platform heels to brightly coloured trainers or flip flops. (You would think I wouldn’t need to mention this, but I have seen some interesting choices at legal events I’ve attended.)...
Online Magazine Article: 3 Rock vocal performances that will go down in history
Publication: WhatCulture.com
Because some songs just wouldn’t be as great without that vocal.
Can you imagine Gorillaz without the animated characters? Or The Rolling Stones - '(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction’ without that guitar riff?
It’s the same with a lead vocal, and in rock that is usually the most significant, memorable, distinctive feature of a great song! The type of song that will go down in history, the type that crosses over to listeners of other genres, the type you can’t get out of your head.
Some of the greatest songs of all time would not be the same without them first coming out of the mouth of a gifted vocalist and just like a night out in a karaoke bar, these 3 songs without these vocals, just wouldn’t be the same.
It was hard to narrow down such a broad genre that contains some of the greatest vocal performances of all time, but here are 3 great ones that have stood the test of time.
3. Aerosmith and Run-D.M.C., ‘Walk This Way’
Now, this is a controversial one considering half the song is recorded by Run-D.M.C, a hip-hop group, but this is the version I'm sticking to. This vocal collaboration brought rap to a new audience and according to some YouTube comments could have been one of the beautiful things Martin Luther King dreamt of in his speech of unity! Not only did it remind people just how talented Aerosmith were, it opened doors for Run DMC.
Lead singer of Aerosmith Steven Tyler, who wrote the original lyrics, already
had a rapid-fire style in the original version but in this version, he still allows
his vocal attack shines through from his “1,2,3,4 count at the start and again
in each chorus. It is weaved in simultaneously with Joe Perry’s distinguishing
guitar part.
Rappers Joseph "Run" Simmons and Darryl "D.M.C." McDaniels bounced off
each other in their verses but remained united which is very fitting given
that this song played a huge part in uniting rap and rock. While they did not
know what Tyler was saying when they first listened to the original song,
according to the D.M.C. autobiography, the conviction in their vocal
performance delivery transitioned seamlessly into Tyler’s chorus.
2. Survivor, ‘Eye of the Tiger’
Risin’ up to the challenge of their rivals is the legendary ‘Eye of the Tiger’ by
Survivor. With just a single vocal line in the song, led by Dave Bickler, the
story of Rocky is told. With the slashing of the chords mimicking the punches of an on-screen boxer and the dead string riff keeping the pace, Bickler’s vocals are there to add that edge, that grit and that fight...
Because some songs just wouldn’t be as great without that vocal.
Can you imagine Gorillaz without the animated characters? Or The Rolling Stones - '(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction’ without that guitar riff?
It’s the same with a lead vocal, and in rock that is usually the most significant, memorable, distinctive feature of a great song! The type of song that will go down in history, the type that crosses over to listeners of other genres, the type you can’t get out of your head.
Some of the greatest songs of all time would not be the same without them first coming out of the mouth of a gifted vocalist and just like a night out in a karaoke bar, these 3 songs without these vocals, just wouldn’t be the same.
It was hard to narrow down such a broad genre that contains some of the greatest vocal performances of all time, but here are 3 great ones that have stood the test of time.
3. Aerosmith and Run-D.M.C., ‘Walk This Way’
Now, this is a controversial one considering half the song is recorded by Run-D.M.C, a hip-hop group, but this is the version I'm sticking to. This vocal collaboration brought rap to a new audience and according to some YouTube comments could have been one of the beautiful things Martin Luther King dreamt of in his speech of unity! Not only did it remind people just how talented Aerosmith were, it opened doors for Run DMC.
Lead singer of Aerosmith Steven Tyler, who wrote the original lyrics, already
had a rapid-fire style in the original version but in this version, he still allows
his vocal attack shines through from his “1,2,3,4 count at the start and again
in each chorus. It is weaved in simultaneously with Joe Perry’s distinguishing
guitar part.
Rappers Joseph "Run" Simmons and Darryl "D.M.C." McDaniels bounced off
each other in their verses but remained united which is very fitting given
that this song played a huge part in uniting rap and rock. While they did not
know what Tyler was saying when they first listened to the original song,
according to the D.M.C. autobiography, the conviction in their vocal
performance delivery transitioned seamlessly into Tyler’s chorus.
2. Survivor, ‘Eye of the Tiger’
Risin’ up to the challenge of their rivals is the legendary ‘Eye of the Tiger’ by
Survivor. With just a single vocal line in the song, led by Dave Bickler, the
story of Rocky is told. With the slashing of the chords mimicking the punches of an on-screen boxer and the dead string riff keeping the pace, Bickler’s vocals are there to add that edge, that grit and that fight...
Print Magazine Article: The Courage to Follow Your Dreams
Publication: The Word Changes
Let’s take a mental car ride together. We could get in a car, turn up the music full blast and drive as fast as possible; they’re playing your favourite song, so it’s all good. Or we could get in a car, take our time to check the safety precautions, and then drive off at a steady pace, changing it up sometimes, but also taking time to acknowledge our surrounding. Which one would you prefer?
Life is sort of like these car journeys and there are people on either path, especially where our hopes and dreams are involved. You have the people that have their end goal on their mind saying, “I’m going to be an actor”, “a doctor”, “a rapper”, “a footballer”, “a star!” They try to do everything they can as quickly as possible from work experience to performances and they hope for quick results.
This is not the best way to follow your dreams as you tend to miss opportunities and it tends to be short-lived. You could end up in a crash that is hard to recover from. Rushing through life and experiences is not the way to achieve your goals; it needs to be about more than the money, the fame or the title. But we can give them credit for having the courage to get in the car in the first place.
When you find something that you are really passionate about, the courage comes naturally in your mind; you are ready to get into a car and put your key in
the ignition....
Let’s take a mental car ride together. We could get in a car, turn up the music full blast and drive as fast as possible; they’re playing your favourite song, so it’s all good. Or we could get in a car, take our time to check the safety precautions, and then drive off at a steady pace, changing it up sometimes, but also taking time to acknowledge our surrounding. Which one would you prefer?
Life is sort of like these car journeys and there are people on either path, especially where our hopes and dreams are involved. You have the people that have their end goal on their mind saying, “I’m going to be an actor”, “a doctor”, “a rapper”, “a footballer”, “a star!” They try to do everything they can as quickly as possible from work experience to performances and they hope for quick results.
This is not the best way to follow your dreams as you tend to miss opportunities and it tends to be short-lived. You could end up in a crash that is hard to recover from. Rushing through life and experiences is not the way to achieve your goals; it needs to be about more than the money, the fame or the title. But we can give them credit for having the courage to get in the car in the first place.
When you find something that you are really passionate about, the courage comes naturally in your mind; you are ready to get into a car and put your key in
the ignition....
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