It's that time of year....

Hey again, guys....sorry for the real lapse in posts, but I decided to take a break from some of my usual posting of late the last couple of months.  As you know, I have blogged on here about certain items I've become intrigued with, including a couple of TV shows I've offered my opinion on.  But after also posting some of my comments on my Facebook page as well, much to the consternation of a few of my pals, I began scaling back, at least for the moment.

I've also been tied up with a very crazy work schedule as well, even now that the holidays are almost over-let's face it, being someone who works retail in the US, especially the way the economy is going, it's probably one of the most stressful times of the year.  People want a good buy, and so do I, but you'd be surprised the way some people want to go about it-and want me to bend the rules to do so.  Unless I've got the availability to do so via my manager's, don't count on it.  I'd had to go thru the same kind of stuff the next day after Christmas the same way you have to do at my store, so bear with it.

But the year's already been challenging enough....my so-called fall from grace among some of my pals (all because of the "slip up" I've told you about recently), a dear friend who lives with me dealing with health issues and now being unemployed, and my own health issues, which returned full force.  Long story short, the only thing that's made me feel old nowadays are an ongoing bout with kidney stones, and they made a dickens of a comeback this year, enough to really force a change of diet, namely not enjoying my beloved soda habit all too often right now.  :)

I suppose it could be worse, I have known some friends who have had much more serious health issues, even a couple that forced them into very serious financial difficulties.  And at least one of my most beloved pals died this year after battling a couple of problems for a good while.  I won't even factor in the fact some of my other pals had a serious bout with a "lady" named Sandy, which rocked the East Coast.  To say that times have gotten tough all around is a true statement, indeed.

I should feel fortunate...I have been told numerous times that I am appreciated, respected, even loved.  I do have my friends and family around me that do have my back when times get rough, and that I do have things that some individuals don't have in their lives.   But the trials and tribulations of the past year have taken a toll on me, I do admit to that.  I've always been an optimist, knowing that if you just hang in there, and keep some sort of faith, things have to go ahead and work themselves out eventually.  And yes, even with all the stuff that has gone on, I've started to make the needed changes that will help me.  And I STILL have that nagging voice in the back of my head that says "it's NOT enough, and never WILL be enough."

There's always been that part of me that's been given a message that I'm not good enough, and that's a demon that's hard to deal with even to this day.  That I'm not good enough, and that nothing I ever do WILL be good enough to make up for some of the stupidity I've done in my life.  And the "incident" this year is just me wanting to do just that, and even have someone feel maybe I AM worth something, even from a distance, and it blew up in my face so much the aftereffects are still there with me now.  Time may be a great equalizer, but the way things have been lately, and with the loss of so many dear to me, as one song from the 90's put it, "Time, you ain't no friend of mine."  Having started my 5th decade (YES, "Decade") of existence on this plane, I now feel my time is at a limit, and every dream I've never fulfilled is staring at me in the face.   And that includes one BIG one, being able to finally reunite with my friends, including those I've never had the chance to meet, and just say hello-and what a difference they mean in my life, even to this day.  OK, maybe I STILL wanna be known among my bear/chub kindred, no one likes to not be in the spotlight ONCE in their lives.  But even bigger, would be the knowledge that I did good, that I made a difference.   (And to those of you who've told me so already, I appreciate that, but nothing beats hearing it in person from a person I've come to love and/or respect, trust me when I say that even a phone call isn't a good alternative to being able to look someone in the face, and give them one hell of a bear hug.)

To those of you who have found out how I can be, even with all my known faults, and still want to consider me a friend, may I offer a sincere "THANK YOU" for seeing my dark side, and yet still find out that maybe I AM someone worth knowing.   And it's all because I think YOU'RE worth knowing, trials and problems included.  The fact I love you, or at the very least, goes without saying, you've made an impact on my life, as much as I truly hope I have, yours.  That's all the proof I need to make sure I remind myself I'm not such a bad old wolf after all-playful, maybe; wild and woolly, probably; but a good person, I sincerely hope so.

To those of you who had parted from me for whatever reason, whether it was an intentional break or not on either side, I apologize wholeheartedly, maybe that it was just the way it was meant to be.  I can't be all things to all people anymore, and now it's time to realize I DO have things to work on, but it wasn't meant to hurt your feelings in any way, whatever the circumstances that developed.  Maybe I can't be the most popular guy on the block, I just have to do what I can, but just don't mess with me if you think I'm not the good person you think I am.  Take my good name and try and smear it, I promise you if I find out, that kind of action will come back to haunt you, badly.  And I've already had incidents, including this year, where I've already done enough damage. Trust me when I say that's enough of a cross to bear.

And to those of you who encountered me thru some of the social media, particularly with regards to Facebook and Twitter, to those who had a chance to offer me a bit of respect, I do appreciate that.  It is so nice to hear from folks whose backgrounds and adventures in life make them so interesting that I'd like to at least admire them, maybe even get to know them just a bit.  The only thing I'd ever ask for in return is a bit of respect towards me, and those I have gotten that from, I hope this admiration society will continue for some time to come, whether you happen to be the average joe or the next "it" person in the media.

But there have also been a couple of you I seem to have "scared off," believe me, that wasn't my intention, either.  And with regards to the gent I offended this year more than anyone, I hate to bring this up once more, but I've already had enough people let me know too often "LET IT GO, Matt, he ain't worth it."  And so to you, I have said, SIR, I've offered up my apologies, and if your so-called schedule isn't worth a second just to accept those apologies and to even give me a second chance to prove I'm not the "pest" you think I am, then maybe you and I don't need to cross paths ever again.  My dear fellow, sometime down the road, you might just realize this little "twerp" would have still been willing to offer whatever help he could, even if I don't have millions or don't appeal to you, in whatever form-and might have offered some support you'd never even realized.  All I can say is, if you're willing to take the risk, then FIND me, you AND the now former friend of mine who introduced me to you in the first place.  Believe me, he erred in not fighting hard to make sure you knew I'm not the idiot you think I am, as much as you erred in either not believing in me, nor making it clear we weren't going to get along a LOT sooner.  I'll admit I was wrong in thinking as well that some of my other pals would come to my defense and let you know the same thing, that I'm not who you'd think I am.  My social skills may not be worth jack sometimes, but ask anyone who knows me, and they'll tell you my heart IS worth something.  As I have referred to from an artist I've borrowed the lyrics of one of his songs from, it IS "now or never," and I'm tired of waiting to take action, and hurting like hell. I wish you well, and I know that you are good at what you do.  Maybe I can't see things from your perspective like you'd like, but I damned sure wished you'd stopped a second and looked from my point of view.  And I damned sure hope you somehow forgive me for the pain and embarassment I caused you, or at least just damned well realize that.  And a lot of people we BOTH know will tell you the same thing.  I may not be easy to get a hold of, but it's not like I'm gonna be hiding from you, either, just following my own path-all you have to do is THINK, how the hell do I find the Wolffe?  You might just find me sooner than you think.

Guys...I'm way too old now for stuff like this to happen in my life, and in my case, this isn't the first time someone has affected me that badly.  But the price it's taken on my life means I'm not gonna be the same happy-go-lucky wolf that many of you have come to know and love, at least not now.  Time is not my friend right now, especially now that many people I care about have grown old, and a few more have left me this year, and more knocking on the doorstep as we speak.  It's time to focus on the people I DO care about who are still here, and still around for me, even as my own life gets that much more complicated.  Believe me when I say I WILL make sure that I make the time for you, and make sure that our paths cross long enough to the time when all I need is a simple bear hug and a chance to say "Glad to meet you, and glad that you have made a difference in MY life, as I hope I have in yours."  That is all the treasure I'd ever want right now (even though at least a million bucks wouldn't exactly be bad, either).   If you're one of those friends of mine that reads thru this latest blog and has some concern, I ask you not to judge me too hard, but to understand where I'm coming from.  Everyone else seems to have found their own way of finding some sense of purpose and self-worth in their lives, and I'm still working past my frustrations to obtain mine.  As I said, it's time to let time work its magic, and let me find my own happiness, preferably without wondering what anyone thinks.

As far as what I want out of life, just to feel like I've done all right, and that I AM all right, I found comfort by recently rechecking my CD collection, and turning to a track from a blues band I've been fond of (though distantly) since I discovered them about 20 years ago.  The song and the strength that they give me, is something I'm passing along to you all, especially for those of you who need much the same encouragement.  I know that time is not my best friend of late, and I hate having to be patient, but this particular track from John Popper and his band Blues Traveler proved to be at least a "rock" that I can draw some help from once in a while (and thanks to John and BT for the fact they appreciated my informing them this song was a blessing I needed at the present, when I informed them thru Twitter-trust me, I mean to catch them perform when they come back to the Carolinas, and I sincerely hope they're OK with me sharing this with you now).  And I hope it helps you now, like it's been helping me of late (fact is, I can even think that some of you may be saying this same stuff to me now, seems like). 

I hope you all have had a good Holiday season, and even with whatever differences you and I might have now, I hope you all have a good New Year as well, I'll see you in 2013, wherever life takes you or whatever it sends your way.  HUGS and HOWLS, NUFF SAID, I'll see you down the road.

Matthew (CCWolffeNC)

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"Just Wait"  by Blues Traveler    (Words and Music--John Popper)
(from the album "Four," copyright 1994, Blues Traveler Publishing/Irving Music (BMI)/A&M Records)


If ever you are feeling like you're tired
And all your uphill struggles, have you headed downhill
If you realize your wildest dreams can hurt you
And your appetite for pain has drinken its fill

I ask of you a very simple question...
Did you think for one minute, that you were alone?
And is your suffering a privilege you share only...
Or did you think everybody else feels completely at home?

Just wait...just wait
just wait...and it will come

If you think I've given up on you, you're crazy
And if you think I don't love you, then you're just wrong
In time you just might take to feeling better
Time is the beauty of the road being long

I know that now you feel no consolation
But maybe, if I told you and informed you out loud
I say this without fear of hesitation
I can honestly tell you that you make me proud

Just wait...just wait
Just wait..and it will come

Just wait...just wait
Just wait..and it will come

If anything I might have just said has helped you
If anything I might have just said, has helped you just carry on
Your rise uphill may no longer seem a struggle
And your appetite for pain may all but be gone

I hope for you and cannot stop at hoping
Until that smile has once again returned to your face
There's no such thing as a failure who keeps trying
Coasting to the bottom is the only disgrace

Just wait...just wait
Just wait..and it will come

Just wait...just wait
Just wait...and it will come

Just wait..just wait
Just wait..and it will come

"'Cause you gotta have friends...."

As the song title goes, "you gotta have friends."  Friends can be an important part of your life, and can let you know when it may be time to change your way of thinking about things, or can just be around when you want to get together and goof off.  They can also be an important source of strength, in both good times, and especially in bad times.  And it's true what they say about "a friend in need, is a friend, indeed."

But sometimes, it's hard to make sure those connections can stand up well, even to the tests of time.  And for that matter, sometimes it's harder to find a way to bring new friends into your life.  And for someone like me who values his friends as much as he does his own kinfolk, it can be a very trying experience, indeed.

Recently, I'd lost two friends to battles they had with their individual health issues.  One happened to be one of my dearest friends at one time, and the other, oddly enough, was one of his best friends, and both of them had grown to be very fond of me, something I will cherish til the day that I am finally off this plane of existence.  This hasn't been the first time in the last couple of years that I'd lost a friend, a couple of others-again, one who'd known me for years; the other, had just come to be comfortable calling me a friend-had also passed from certain health issues.  It's hard enough to keep up with anyone and everyone I call friend, but to hear when they pass away is such a heartbreaker for me.  My friends know that when I call you friend-or the reverse is true-that I take that as seriously as possible, and do my best to maintain that bond.

Sometimes, though, you think some friendships can build and last a good long while.  And then you find out that might not be the case.  For the last several months, I'd been upset because a young gent (whom I'd encountered on the internet and elsewhere) and I had lost our connection-but I'd only discovered the connection may not have been as great as I thought, to my sincere regret.  I knew we were as different as night and day, but I'd hoped time would let us build a bond to get over that.  And now after finding out the opposite (and hoping it wouldn't be like that), I have come to the thought to let it go and let time decide what's next, and help me deal with the fact I still kick myself over what was lost and what I could have done better.

The fact is, when I start up a friendship, it's not necessarily looking for "favors" (at least not on the surface-mind you, there are times when ulterior motives can be a factor in any friendship, for that matter).  It's to get to know people-I could care less whether you're black or white, rich or poor, famous or not, my "type" that I'm attracted to or not, it just matters that we make connections, and find out more about each other.  Sometimes the person you may think is a pain in the ass could be the reason you found that lucky break you might be looking for.  And that person might just be worth an extra minute or two of your time.  That person also could be one of the best reasons to go ahead and deal with your life, even if that life has turned into a living hell.  And I know a few folk who have come to be so grateful to me for that exact reason-those are friends worth holding onto, for dear life.  And those are the type of people that when they leave this Earth, those lives are to be celebrated, because they have touched your life in ways that even you might find hard to explain-and while they are here, you do your best to make sure you stay in touch.

But when it comes to people who want to be a part of their life, you can't force the issue, folks.  I know that's one reason my recent "friendship" fell apart, because all I wanted was that one person to think "you know, maybe Matt isn't so bad after all."  If you care enough to reach out, that's fine, but don't overdo it.  Sometimes people are around just to let you know, maybe connections can't be made overnight, or even at all.  Better to let them pass by for a moment and maybe say "hello," then to make their lives as miserable as yours might become.  One of my new dearest friends gave me a not too subtle reminder that sometimes people just come in for a season or reason, and then leave you behind.  Funny, I thought I'd gotten that same advice from a black dude in a dress (you gotta love that Madea).  I sincerely hope that's not the case, but let them go.   If anyone who comes into your life wants you, they'll come back and get you-all you can do is try and make a good projection of yourself, and if you do something wrong, just offer apologies and hope to God they forgive you (and don't think you're like that all the time). 

Like I have found out, some people are only around for a short time.  But if you find someone to share a connection with, make sure you do everything to honor that new friendship, even if you don't see that person for months (even years) at a time. And if that person really becomes a part of your life, make sure that person is honored like you can't possibly do enough for that person.  But even if that person is only around for a short time, even if that person doesn't have a thing in common with you, you never know what can happen if you give them just a half a chance.  Friends can be a treasure that holds a lot of good surprises. 

Just a little something to think about, folks.  I'll talk to ya'll again soon, NUFF SAID.

Hey there, guys, it's the Wolffe again....

Hey there, folks.  I'd just recently checked thru the blog after being away for a bit, and I have to admit I have gotten a little more traffic than I thought possible.  To anyone and everyone who HAVE at least given me a lookover, thank you for stopping by, and I ask you to let your friends know to take a look as well.

I have been dealing with some personal issues-which I have alluded to in past entries of this blog-about my life, and that there are issues I seriously need to deal with.  And the fact it's now turned my life entirely upside down, so much so I didn't get a chance to finish off my blogs dealing with the NBC show "The Voice" and itse second season.  Right now, in my mind, I have enough to deal with, and even though I'm glad there's finally been some interest in those comments about the past season, unless I hear otherwise, I'll leave those comments for the NBC/Voice Facebook page, of which I am a regular.  Better to go ahead and get my comments as short and accurate there, and leave the Wolffe's Den for now for my personal thoughts and interests.

I also know that some of you have been in touch with me concerning those issues, and I appreciate the efforts.  All I ask is that you remain patient with me, and I will certainly be back to make my views known before too long, when it's appropriate to do so.  Right now, there's been a number of people I have upset with me, and I refuse to let the hurt go on any longer-I just hope that time does the healing, and soon.

That's it for now, this is the Wolffe-take care, be good, God bless, I'm gone, bye bye.  NUFF SAID!

The Voice, Season 2, The Sweet 16 Live Shows

, folks....I've been away for a little while, dealing with some personal issues.  Trust me when I say I didn't mean to be out of action for a while, but that doesn't mean I didn't keep my eye on what's up with NBC's The Voice.  Ready for the short recap of the Sweet 16 Live Shows?  Here we go....

With regards to Christina Aguliera's squad, her decision to eliminate Jesse Campbell was probably the big shot in the foot she didn't need, squashing her #1 contender (and the #1 seed in the tournament).  BUT considering Jesse's performance didn't hit well until midway into the song, I get why the decision.  Ashley DeLaRosa also did well, but Lindsey Pavao proved herself to be better.  And Chris Mann's decision to do Coldplay's "Viva La Vida" was brilliance, since his opera training made the song tailor made for him.

With regards to Blake Shelton's team, Jermaine Paul proved he could go ahead and capture Jesse's audience if something were to happen to him, and his performance of Phil Collins' "Against All Odds" (a bittersweet melody for me) proved it.  Erin Willett also proved to be a force that could wind up as a dark horse with her Adele tune, but sadly, the popular Jordis Unga and RaeLynn (a strong fan favorite herself) didn't live up to their potential.  Even though it did suck, Blake had the right idea saying goodbye to the two of them.

With regards to Adam Levine's team, Pip and Mathai really didn't get to live up to their potentials, and Adam had the right idea sending two of his strongest contenders home.  Katrina Parker proved she's got the right idea to also become a dark horse in the contest, and I hope this Carolina lady still continues to become a surprise.  But the biggest and most powerful curve ball of the whole season proved to be Adam and Tony Lucca's rock-laced remake of Britney Spears' "Hit Me Baby, One More Time."  Christina, after the comments you made about Tony being one dimensional, I hate to say it, "Half baked crow, my dear?  CHOMP CHOMP!"  Tony, you just made it back to the competition.  And Christina, I'd let Britney know what she's up against if she decides to go with Fox as reported.  You sure she's ready to join Simon in fighting you guys, because she'd better be ready to "'Factor' THIS!"

And as far as Cee-Lo Green's squad, James Massone and Cheesa pulled in decent performances, but paled to their colleagues, Juliet Sims and Jamar Rogers.  Juliet proved she has a given rock quality to her vocals that works beautifully.  But Jamar Rogers is proving now to be THE front runner for the title, as some have started to discover, putting his own spin on Bon Jovi's "It's My Life" (at least, lyrically, very fitting for him).  Jamar, I loved your background story when you first appeared, and you've got MY respect.  I hope to GOD you can fight your way to the Finals, as Cee-Lo and his boys of the Goodie Mob echoed in their new hit "Fight To Win" (and Cee, you're about to make me a convert as well), you deserve a chance to get that gold ring!

That's it for now, we'll see what happens next on Monday night, on NBC.com-just make sure to vote for your faves.  That's it from the Wolffe, NUFF SAID!

The Voice, Season 2--Pre-Live Show Ratings, Part 2

OK, guys, you read what I had to say to Cee-Lo and Blake's teams, as to who could be winding up heading towards the Finals, when the Live Shows begin Monday, April 2.  Now that those two teams are out of the way, let's focus on the other two (stronger, in my opinion) squads.  Ready?  Here we go....


TEAM ADAM LEVINE ("Team Zenmaster")

Well, he took the title last year with R&B/pop crooner Javier Colon, but there were other parts of Adam's team that people sat up and took notice on, including young sensation Jeff Jenkins (one of my other faves) and country singer Casey Weston (who improved nicely enough to make the Top 8).  Adam still has the goods to make sure he makes the top again this year, they just need to be fine-tuned into what could be, again, a solid team.  All he has to do is play on their strengths to get them focused in the right direction, a trick he does very masterfully.  But how well they're gonna do, well, that's up more or less up to them....

6)  Karla Davis--this young artist managed to find her own "voice" (no pun intended) in a solid duel against Orlando Napier.  Now it's just a matter of building on the strength of her power, and hopefully, the choice of song will make all the difference.

5)  Katrina Parker--this lady from Los Angeles, by way of North Carolina (and I gotta say I'm glad of that <G>), proved she can be a "dark horse" of her own, with a vocal ability that jsut needs its own fine tuning to make her truly incredible.  Don't be surprised if she also finds the right tune to make her a force to reckon with, all she needs is focus and a bit of confidence.

4)  Kim Yarbrough--she proved that experience has its own rewards, being able to hold her own against a young lady many thought had a legit shot at the title, Whitney Myer (including Adam himself).  She's become the "Frenchie Davis" of this season, and now it's just a matter of drawing on that experience, especially with the young talent involved.

3)  Mathai--she decided on a career in music, and got three of the four coaches very interested in guiding her in the auditions.  But it was her ability to adapt and find a "comfort zone" on stage that proved her talent, and that zone is going to be critical in her next performance.  Her ability to connect with the audience has been great, she just needs to take that one step further.

2)  Pip--this young man from Georgia has proven he's got what it takes, even for looking like a mesh of a young Donny Osmond and Steve Urkel.  (NO offense intended, my young friend.  <G>)  His vocal talent and his ability to adapt to just about ANY song makes him a force to be reckoned with.  Now it's just a matter of being comfortable on stage (something he's used to) and NOT taking anything for granted.  He's got a VERY legit shot at the title, from what's been said, now it's just making it happen is what it's gonna take.

1)  Tony Lucca--this old colleague of Christina from her "Mickey Mouse Club" days has proven he's got the experience and talent to make it to the top.  Now it's just a matter of drawing on both, especially with the up and comers (and even a couple of the "old timers") involved this year.  But right now, he's looking to be the one to beat for Adam's team, but can he master enough to take the overall title is anyone's question.



TEAM CHRISTINA AGULIERA ("Team Xtina"/"Team Diva")

Well, she's become the focal point of a lot of gossip nowadays, and not all of it necessarily good.  But let's face the facts, folks, Christina HAS the power in her vocal ability and the passion to bring it out in her teammates, as she did with semi-finalists Frenchie Davis and Beverly McClellan last season.  Christina, anybody can ask me, when I call you "larger than life," I call you that because of your talent and raw vocal power, NOT your dress size (and a couple of reality folk need to BACK OFF, obviously).  And right now, even WITH the notable absence of one of your best acts (the country duo The Line, another of my new faves this season), I believe your team IS the one that could manage to get the title.   You've still got work to do to bring out that power, but this team could be the one that grabs the gold, hands down....

6)  Ashley De La Rosa--she's become yet another artist that came out of nowhere and found her vocal strength quickly, taking out fan favorite Johnathas.  But she'll need everything she's got, much less the right song, to take her further into the Live Shows.  But with her determination, she just might have what it takes.

5)  Moses Stone--the first hip-hop artist to make the show, he's proven in just that short a time that hip-hop has its own strong "voice," as he proved, knocking out The Line in one of the most unique Battle Rounds of the tournament.  Can he prove himself with more of a mainstream tune?  That remains to be seen if he can once again gain "satisfaction," but I think he's got more than a few heads now looking to see what else he can do, including me.

4)  Sera Hill-she's proven she can be a young voice in R&B, and still be powerful enough even for the Live Shows.  The only thing that may prove her weakness is her relative newness to performing, but if her talent can make up for that, she's got a good shot.  Anyone who can do a vocal in the audition with Christina herself certainly deserves to get a look at and listen to.

3)  Chris Mann--he's proven you don't necessarily have to come out of the rock, pop, country, or R&B niches to find your own way of mastering your skill.  The "Opera Mann" (as he's now been termed) has been steadily finding his way of becoming more mainstream and still keeping that unique vocal styling he's being respected for.  Now, it's a matter of finding a song that can showcase his vocal strength quite nicely.  I can't say that Chris COULD be destined for the Finals, but his vocal ability can't be ruled out, either.

2)  Lindsey Pavao--she's neck and neck with Blake's artist Charlotte Sometimes for becoming the new "alternative diva" of this season, and she's proven her own quirky style works for her quite well.  But whereas Charlotte tends to be a bit brash, Lindsey has proven a calmer, more focused edge works, too.  But Lindsey just needs to be aware too calm means possibly too quiet, especially for her audience.

1)  Jesse Campbell--right now, if Javier Colon was everyone's "likely" pick for the title last year-and I'll be honest, I grew to like Dia Frampton, enjoyed Beverly McClellan and Vicci Martinez, and went big for Nakia, ALL true, but the moment you heard Javier, you knew "number 1 seed" when you heard it.  I STILL say right now I get the same feeling this year from Jesse Campbell-his gospel training and incredible drive make his vocal power all the more impressive.  If you heard just a few moments of either his audition or his battle with Anthony Evans, Jr, you KNEW he's gonna be the one to beat.  BUT, Jesse, I will warn you, like I have with Charlotte and Cee-Lo's lady Erin Martin, aggressiveness can sometimes lead to problems.  It's hard to know when confidence can cross the line to ego, and you need to be able to stop before that, even though I can understand you're fighting to make a better life for you and your daughter.  Let the vocal ability speak for itself, and the music, and your performances, will do the rest.


That's it for the pre-Live Show "line-ups," folks.  Last year, I had made some predictions as to who would be the Final 8, and even the Final 4.  The way the show was set up last year with its talent, it was pretty clear who to pick that I thought would make the cut.  And I'm kind of pleased most of my guesses were correct, even though one was backwards (Cee-Lo's, I had thought Nakia would be #1, Vicci #2-as we know, the opposite happened), one only half right (when Adam picked Casey Weston over Jeff Jenkins, my pick, as his #2), and one VERY much wrong (I had thought Patrick Thomas and Jared Blake, not Xenia and Dia, would represent Blake's team).  As for the fourth, I had flip-flopped the two several times, but came out right (Beverly #1 and Frenchie #2 for Christina) by the Top 8. 

THIS year, other than Jesse Campbell being a SURE lock in my opinion to probably make the Finals, this is a season that has been too full of surprises, twists, and certainly upsets, to even venture a guess.  I hate to say it, the fact I'd have better luck with the NCAA basketball finals than The Voice says it ALL.  <G>  All I can tell you is, tune in Monday night, April 2nd, at 8 pm EST/7 pm CST on NBC for the start of the Live Shows, to determine who moves on towards the Finale, and a chance to become "THE Voice." 

And for those of you who STILL haven't been part of the audience until now, keep your eye out soon-I'll be back later this weekend to give you an idea of how the process works.  (Or, you can also go to NBC.com, to get the details on how your votes can be cast via phone, email, even iTunes, oddly enough.  Just look for The Voice homepage-http://nbc.com/the-voice-and click on the "vote" section to find out about it.)  But there's also some tips I'll offer as well, so keep an eye out for my blog here, and on Facebook.

That's it from here, guys.  See ya soon, this is the Wolffe!  Take care, be good, God bless, I'm gone, bye bye, NUFF SAID!

The Voice, Season 2-The Final Pre-Live Show "Ratings," Part1

Well, guys, the Battle Rounds are over on NBC's "The Voice," and the stage is set for the Live Shows, set to start off Monday, April 2.  Now, the four coaches and their teams have to "face the music," and see if America will vote them into the Semi-Finals, or if the coaches need to give them a "helping hand."  (And stick around, I'll give you an idea how you can help your favorite star move on in the competition.)  But it's time to see who just might have what it takes to win it all-as I did before the Battle Rounds, this time, weakest to strongest, teams and artists, starting with....


TEAM CEE-LO GREEN (aka "Team Red Zone")

Last year, Cee-Lo, as I mentioned had a powerful, yet eclectic team, featuring among others, rocker Vicci Martinez and blues rocker Nakia, which proved to be a one-two punch heading towards the Finals.  This year, however, the team seems to be a bit subdued-or at least it seems that these guys are becoming the "dark horses" of the competition.  Can Cee-Lo ignite a fire that gets these guys into the winner's circle?  Some of the song choices have been surprising, to say the least, but here's how things are going for them....

6)  Erin Martin---the most eclectic voice, indeed, that I think I've ever heard in this or any competition.  Cee-Lo pegged it right when he called Erin's vocals "very bizarre," but it's worked out well in her favor.  BUT, Erin, we saw a little bit of a "diva" during your Battle Round with the Shields Brothers-attitude can work in your favor, TOO MUCH attitude, even with the fans' help, can turn on you in a heartbeat.  I'm hoping you have enough early support, much like Vicci racked up last year, but to be honest, humble up, and listen up to what Cee-Lo advises you to do.

5)  Cheesa--a big surprise, since I thought Angie Johnson won their duel in the Battle Rounds, but she's proved she has the pipes.  The question is whether she can learn the control the vocal power, that will be the key, hopefully the right song choice will work itself out. 

4)  James Massone--a kid with heart and talent, the vocal ability IS there.  But James, step up your confidence level a bit.  As Cee-Lo showed you, you'll have to be able to trust yourself in whatever songs are chosen, and what kind of performance you want to give.  You've got the "chops," as Christina has said (I call it "pipes"), now just remember you ARE that talented, and let it show, and let it flow.

3)  Jamar Rogers--you came onto this show, hoping to land a spot with your favorite coach, Cee-Lo, and you did, buddy.  And your vocal talent PROVED you're worthy of being part of the "Red Zone."  Now, it's just a matter of making sure it STAYS that way, don't lose that fire and intensity.  Believe me, you're one of a handful of folks I HOPE to God makes it thru, after knowing your background.

2)  Tony Vincent--probably one of the most seasoned performers I have met, and that background in theater absolutely shows why you're in the competition.  You know your rock n' roll, and the level of passion knows few limits.   Don't let up on that delivery, I know you've got a legit shot at being part of the Finals. 

1)  Juliet Sims--could Juliet become Cee-Lo's next "Vicci" or "Beverly?"  Her performance makes it clear to a lot of folks that she deserves her own shot at the title, but I hope she can deliver the performances of her life right now.  I can see her in the Finals, just as far as winning, it's a toss-up.



TEAM BLAKE SHELTON (aka, "Team Big Country")

Last season, Blake and his team shocked the competition when he took both country and pop stars into the Top 16, and his pop stars proved to be the bigger surprise, with Xenia making the top 8, and Dia Frampton becoming runner-up of the whole season.  THAT takes guts and determination, but right now, it's gonna take more determination to get Blake's team back to a chance at the title.  Blake, you'd better step up the game like you did last year, there's been at least a couple surprises (including one of my favorites sent packing), but at least the line-up IS quite convincing...


6)  Erin Willett--she proved she has the vocal strength, beating out favorite Gwen Sebastian.  And she's also proved she's a fighter, now fighting for the memory of her father.  Erin, all I can say is the battle has gone to a new level, step up your control of the vocals, and keep fighting.  I know your dad would have been proud.

5)  Naia Kete--Naia, I get the same feeling from you that Blake got from Dia last year, thinking you could be a big surprise in this competition.  Somehow, your smooth reggae flavored sound just might be the thing that makes you an ultimate "wild card."  Fortunately, being a street musician, you know how to work your sound, and the crowd.  I advise you to keep that up.

4)  RaeLynn--I don't think there was any doubt you'd wind up on the show, with your heart felt country sound, and a little bit of an edge (hmm, just like Blake's wife Miranda <G>).  Just make sure you know you will have to adapt to whatever song gets thrown your way, I know you had a challenge with that in the Battle Round (and I'm not sure if the song choice helped you or Ashley Stump).   I hope whatever song is picked, make it managable for your sound.

3)  Jermaine Paul--you've improved a LOT in the competition in my eyes, and may just be the one to give Christina's soul singer Jesse Campbell a legit run for the money during the Live Shows.  Thank God for your own background with being a back-up for R&B star Alicia Keyes, that certainly helped.  You've also proved that "swagger" doesn't necessarily mean overconfidence, something some of your fellow artists can learn.

2)  Jordis Unga--confidence and control are your key issues, my dear.  We know that you have the vocal ability, even if your own Battle Round was a little bit askew, as I call it.  Now it's just a matter of making sure your emotions don't get the better of you, but I'm sure you can find that strength and control if you work on it enough.

1)  Charlotte Sometimes--my dear, you've proven to be one very big force to be reckoned with.  It took me a couple of times to listen to your audition, but I heard the "alternative diva" in you, one I'm sure Alanis Morisette would even take notice on.  And the Battle Round proved it as well, but here we go again, leave "cocky" to Blake, too much attitude has a way of working against you if you're not careful.  I'm seeing aggressiveness, but it needs to be tempered, dear, or that can turn off potential fans and votes. 


Okay....two teams down, two to go.  Who's got what it takes to win what's proven to be a very successful season of The Voice, one that now makes it the new #1 show in the USA?  We'll see April 2nd, and I'll be back SOON to let you know how good Adam's and Christina's teams are, and how you can help your favorite stars.  This is the Wolffe, take care, be good, God bless, I'm gone, bye bye! NUFF SAID!

The Voice, Season 2-Battle Rounds, Week 4

If there's been one way to describe last season's "The Voice," it was to "expect the best talent in the country."  This season, it looks like we're also bound to "expect the unexpected."  And for this past Monday night's Battle Rounds, that was never a more apt phrase, including a couple of upsets that even took out a top act in the competition.  Ready?  Here's the blow by blow...

Battle #1--James Massone vs Wade, Team Cee-Lo, singing "True Colors" by Cyndi Lauper

The coaches have been making some surprising choices of songs for their artists, and this was one that was definitely from left fiield, even from the very "funkafied" Cee-Lo Green.  But apparently, the choice of song for James and Wade proved to be one that moved the usually cool Cee-Lo to tears at one point.  Cee-Lo and his guest advisors-Kenny "Babyface" Edmunds, who coached Wade, and new R&B star/producer Ne-Yo, who coached James-clearly had their hands full.  But even though Wade (one of Cee-Lo's personal favorites) got the idea of the song a lot better than James, James proved to be a little more in control (even if it sounded a bit stiff) during the duel.  Sometimes your own worst enemy can be yourself, and Wade learned that the hard way.

MY PICK:  James Massone
WINNER:   James Massone
TO THE BATTLERS:   Wade, you gave it a good effort and a right amount of passion, but there was a point you started to overdo it, and it carried in your voice.  I know this experience will make you stronger.
James, all it takes is a matter of confidence and believing in your own abilities.  You managed to find that out and stay consistent in your battle, and now it just means building on that and taking it to the next level.  And that next level will be a big step, trust me.


Battle #2--Nicole Gallyon vs Mathai, Team Adam, singing "Love Song" by Sarah Bareilles

Nicole, the musician and singer, had a tough battle on her hands with Mathai going into this duel, but Adam had thought by choosing a piano-influenced tune, that might even the odds.  But even with R&B/pop star and producer Robin Thicke guiding Nicole, and alternative diva Alanis Morissette helping Mathai, Adam found out that the piano isn't exactly what the doctor-or the duet-ordered.  That proved to be Nicole's challenge, and even though she put a mighty effort into it, Mathai's proven stage confidence was the ultimate factor, soundly giving her the win in the duel.

MY PICK:  Mathai
WINNER:   Mathai
TO THE BATTLERS:  Nicole, you found your voice, in a matter of speaking, at the end, and hopefully by playing on that as well as on the piano, this won't be the end of your career, I promise.
Mathai, you know your strengths, especially in performing, play onto that and work on the vocals, that should make sure you're a force for Adam's team heading to the Live Shows.


Battle #3--Moses Stone vs The Line (Hayley & Leland), Team Christina, singing
      "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" by the Rolling Stones

If you thought Erin Martin versus The Shields Brothers was a wild pairing, Christina made an almost wackier pairing of the country/pop duo The Line and hip-hop/rap artist Moses Stone.  Thank goodness both parties were willing to go along, even though it felt terribly uncomfortable at times, and it took just a little coaching from guest advisors Lionel Richie (who was impressed by Moses' vocal strength) and Jewel (who helped get The Line in a good frame of mind) to point them towards one very powerful performance.  In the end, though, Moses' delivery proved to be just the right "satifaction" to score what I call one of the BIGGEST upsets of this season's Battle Rounds. 

MY PICK:  The Line
WINNER:   Moses Stone (and yes, I said BIG upset, dangit)
TO THE BATTLERS:  To Hayley & Justin...I sincerely hate the fact that you two were outdone on a Stones tune, and that you won't be a part of this competition any longer.  You were one of my favorite acts, and certainly one of the better acts of this season.  I know that you'll take what you've learned here and make sure to put it to use to get you further down the line.  I'm proud to have crossed "The Line" and enjoyed you guys, you're a damned good duo.
Moses, I have to admit, I was impressed by your talent during the auditions, even though it was only shown briefly.  But it looks like you stepped up the game when you needed to, and it also looks like The Voice will be recognizing a lot more hip-hop/rap talent (as X Factor has done, admittedly) from now on, thanks to you and Christina.  Keep up the "A" game as you head to the Live Shows, I think we'll be nicely surprised.


Battle #4--Orlando Napier vs Karla Davis, Team Adam, had chosen "Rich Girl" by Hall & Oates, then switched to "Easy" by Lionel Richie & The Commodores

For Orlando and Karla, the original choice of "Rich Girl" seemed to be what Adam would have liked them to sing.  But for once during the Battle Rounds, one of the coaches did the RIGHT thing, by finding a song that suited the vocal styles a lot better.  Thus, "Easy" proved to be as easy like Sunday morning (my apologies to Lionel himself there <G>) for the competitors to try their hand at, with a little help from Adam, Robin Thicke (who advised Orlando), and Alanis Morissette (who assisted Karla).  It still wasn't the best choice of song for the duo, even admittedly by the coaches as a whole, but Karla's vocal control proved to be somewhat better than Orlando's attempt at a little flair. 

MY PICK:  Orlando Napier
WINNER:   Karla Davis (again, an "upset," considering)
TO THE BATTLERS:  Orlando, you proved to be as good a musician as your dad, and I think this experience will help you grow in that fashio, and make your dad even prouder.
Karla, work on that vocal strength, I'm sure that's going to help you out during the Live Shows, just make sure to find your own identity within as well.


Battle #5--Naia Kete vs Jordan Rager, Team Blake, singing "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz

Putting a street musician/reggae artist like Naia against a country loving preacher's kid like Jordan may sound far-fetched, but the song that Blake chose proved those two worlds could collide rather nicely.  The flavor of the tune does favor Naia, but I'm sure that Jordan could borrow the feel from Zac Brown and songs like "Toes" (and he used Zac's hit "Chicken Fried" to qualify) to get the idea, and did.  It also didn't hurt to have Blake's wife, singer, Miranda Lambert, to help him along the journey, while Naia's own style impressed Blake and her special guest advisor, former American Idol Kelly Clarkson.  But it was the experience of Naia that carried her past the developing talent of Jordan (and his voice did happen to have some good range), and now is carrying her to a wider audience.

MY PICK:  Naia Kete
WINNER:   Naia Kete
TO THE BATTLERS:   Jordan, there's no doubt, I think you've stumbled into something good and that you're starting to find your way.  Blake isn't the only one who thinks you've got what it takes in country music.
Naia, you're nervous, but carry some very serious experience, and that will definitely be a factor as you head into the Live Shows.  I hope you can keep it up, and develop that voice, and I say so because I now see you as a "dark horse" that could be reckoned with.  Somehow, you've given me the same vibes Blake had when Xenia and Dia Frampton competed for him last season-I've become a fan of Dia, and I now see the same potential in you.


Battle #6--Justin Hopkins vs Tony Vincent, Team Cee-Lo, singing "Faithfully" by Journey

Finally, we end it all with one of the most emotional battles of the tournament so far-Broadway star Tony Vincent, and his trained vocal talent, against Justin Hopkins, musician and circuit singer (and former member of the band of Voice host Carson Daly's late night talk show).   And both have become friends, knowing the stakes were very high for them and their families, as Cee-Lo himself also acknowledged.   So the choice of song wasn't necessarily a shocker, since it is such an intense tune, and it took some very intense preparation thanks to Cee-Lo, and advisors Babyface (who helped Tony) and Ne-Yo (who helped Justin).  Much like the Tony Lucca vs Chris Cauley duel, either one of these singers could have advanced-and the fact they both gave a commanding performance made that crystal clear.  But Cee-Lo chose the person who he felt could better represent the team and his own point of view, and for Tony, the stage was set for the Live Shows.

MY PICK:  Tony Vincent
WINNER:   Tony Vincent
TO THE BATTLERS:   Justin, you are someone I have grown to appreciate during your time on The Voice, with your vocal talent, and your love for the performance.  I know that Cee-Lo and your old pal Carson are as proud of you as your fans are, and this won't be the end of the road for you.  We'll be watching.
Tony, I was drawn to your voice as much as Cee-Lo was, being that it is such a unique and polished vocal talent, capable of adapting with just about any song that gets thrown your way.  Believe me when I say that you and Jamar Rogers are two folk that really deserve the opportunity to shine in the Live Shows, I have grown to respect you that much.  And I look forward to seeing what "spectacles" you can offer down the line.


WHEWWWWW.......that's it for the Battle Rounds, folks.  A lot of surprises, a bit of drama, and more than one twist come to pass.  Next Monday, April 2, begins the Live Shows, where you and I will help choose who moves on to the Finals, or at least gets one step closer, anyway.  But this weekend, I'll be back on with more observations from The Voice, and give you an idea WHO'S got the makings of a great "voice," and who needs to step up their game, and FAST.  And you thought LAST year was big with the likes of Javier, Dia, Beverly, Vicci, Frenchie, Nakia, Xenia, Casey, and so on?  This one's gonna be a REAL roll of the dice, no questions asked.  I just hope the artists left know what needs to be done, and GO SIC 'EM!

Be back this week, folks.  Til then, this is the Wolffe, take care, be good, God bless, I'm gone, bye bye.  NUFF SAID!

The Voice, Season 2-Battle Rounds, Week 3

 Hey there, folks, sorry for the delay, was unavailable due to a personal matter Monday....

Folks, I'm as surprised as you are, how this is turning into a season of some surprises.  And this week was a bit of a doozy, because there were not one, but THREE upsets that happened on NBC's "The Voice," as the Battle Rounds continue.  And since the Battle Rounds continue, so do my blow by blows-here we go.....

Battle #1-Pip vs Nathan Parrett, Team Adam, singing "You Know I'm No Good" by Amy Winehouse

Two young showmen squared off in this battle, as set up thru "coach" Adam Levine.  Even though an Amy Winehouse tune might have thrown the young star named Pip, it was clear that it was his battle to win or lose.  And newcomer Nathan Parrett knew he also had his work cut out for him, even with his best attempt and coaching from R&B singer/producer Robin Thicke.  But it didn't take long for Pip to show why he's now become a force to be reckoned with (including his own coaching from Adam and his guest mentor alternative diva Alanis Morissette), even though Nathan had made some good strides during their performance.

MY PICK:  Pip
WINNER:   Pip
TO THE BATTLERS:   Nathan, you found the strength to go ahead and come out not long ago (and join a respected member of The Voice "family" (as some of us might say)), and also found a way to at least break out of some of your nervousness.  I'm sure you'll find your confidence, given time.  Pip, Christina mentioned your doing some Broadway type shows and how it fueled your own experience, and that really showed.  It looks like you're destined to be at least a top contender for the Finals, just keep it up.


Battle #2-Erin Martin vs Tristan & Rory Shields (The Shields Brothers), Team Cee-Lo,
singing "What's Love Got To Do With It?" by Tina Turner

Cee-Lo said it best when it was all over, this was the most odd duo of the evening, and probably one of the most entertaining.  Erin, with her VERY quirky voice (that reminds me a bit of Macy Gray), versus the all too boisterous Shields Brothers, who "love it loud," to quote a line from KISS, and both of them doing a Tina Turner tune that calls for some serious slinky edge to it.  But the Shields Brothers were given a chance to find their softer side, thanks to R&B producer Kenny "Babyface" Edmunds, and newcomer R&B sensation Ne-Yo helped find Erin her own spin on the tune (although Erin seems to be a bit more critical than you might think she would be).  How you merge two high-energy brothers and the eclectic sound of Erin was VERY interesting, but it appeared Erin had a much better grip on the tune than the Shields.  It might have not been the ideal tune for either, but it proved to be quite unique.

MY PICK: Erin Martin
WINNER:  Erin Martin
TO THE BATTLERS:  Rory and Tristan, your energy and type of "in your face" rock n' roll is still as wild as ever, and you guys need to follow your heart in that direction, but I'm sure the time you had on the show will also help your development.  Erin, I know you're still finding your niche, but you'll need to temper that slight ego that developed this week.  Give Cee-Lo and company a chance to work with you, to make sure you know how to use that quirky, wonderful tone of yours. 


Battle #3-Johnathas vs Ashley De La Rosa, Team Christina,
singing "No Air" by Justin Sparks and Chris Brown

This one was tailored quite well for Johnathas, considering his background with R&B.  But it turns out that Ashley was willing to let herself and her own voice develop, with the right coaching.  And even though Johnathas picked up on the instruction from Christina Aguliera and her backup, former Commodore Lionel Richie, it was Ashley who probably got the message more from Christina and the other guest mentor, singer/songwriter Jewel (who herself tweeted about The Voice now being one of her new favorite shows).  Johnathas proved to be his own worst enemy, when his performance seemed to be rather "usual," giving Ashley a chance to push on thru and find her own ability.

MY PICK:  Johnathas
WINNER:   Ashley De La Rosa  (FIRST of the night's three upsets)
TO THE BATTLERS:  Johnathas, it's not that you didn't put up a good effort, it just needed a little more push and a little less show.  Ashley, you've found that confidence, now put it to good use.


Battle #4-Jermaine Paul vs AlyX, Team Blake, singing
"Get Out Of My Dreams, Get Into My Car" by Billy Ocean

This time, it was another case of the seasoned veteran, managing to take command, despite the best efforts of Alyx, a very promising up and comer.  In Jermaine's case, it was evident his years of being a back-up singer for R&B star Alicia Keyes paid off, even blowing away Blake's guest mentor, former American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson.  Blake's wife, country star Miranda Lambert, helped guide Alyx, but they knew they had a tough road ahead, fortunately, even with Jermaine putting on a solid performance, Alyx was able to let loose a bit and have some fun on stage performing.

MY PICK:  Jermaine Paul
WINNER:   Jermaine Paul
TO THE BATTLERS:  Alyx, it's not always about being serious about the music, as Blake had told you.  Sometimes it IS OK just to let loose, and make sure you can have fun performing for an audience.  I'm sure you'll find out that as you continue to perform and grow.  Jermaine, it looks like now, Jesse Campbell (of Christina's team) may need to watch out, you've begun to show a confidence that could have you can go neck and neck with him to the Finals.  And tonight's performance definitely proves I'm right.



Battle #5-Angel Taylor vs Katrina Parker, Team Adam, singing "Bleeding Love" by Leona Lewis

Taking on a tune that already got one person in last year (Christina's young star Raquel Castro) is something, but it's also something when you try and put your own spin on it.  Forunately, the more seasoned Angel and the former office worker Katrina seemed able to make sure to find their own way around it, with help from Robin Thicke (who assisted Angel) and Alanis Morissette (who helped Katrina).  But what should have been a chance for Angel to shine, Angel did keep things a bit safe, giving Katrina a chance to bring out her own surprising vocal power.

MY PICK:  Angel Taylor
WINNER:   Katrina Parker (that's UPSET #2)
TO THE BATTLERS:  Angel, you did a good job, just played it safe a little much, allowing Katrina to step in and seize the moment.  But there's no doubt about your strength of voice and of character.  And to the former North Carolina (Holly Grove, Katrina's hometown) native, I know we're proud of you for making it into the Live Shows, Katrina.  Your confidence has begun to grow, and your voice, too, don't stop.


Battle #6-Gwen Sebastian vs Erin Willett, Team Blake, singing "We Belong" by Pat Benatar

Even though this isn't exactly a country tune, I had a feeling that Gwen Sebastian might have been able to pull this one.  What happened was that would be pop singer Erin Willett found determination and dedication, all spurred by the fact her sick father took a bad turn before the Battle Round took place.  (And unfortunately, her dad did happen to pass away not long after the episode was taped.)  But Gwen and Erin did find some strength in each other, and in Blake's coaching, along with help from Miranda Lambert (who helped Gwen find her niche) and Kelly Clarkson (who helped focus Erin's voice).  The fact that these two had become close friends, it made it easier to push thru, but it certainly didn't make things easier when both performed rather well, in certain spots during.

MY PICK:  Gwen Sebastian
WINNER:   Erin Willett (UPSET #3, but I won't say this win wasn't deserved)
TO THE BATTLERS:   Gwen, you were one of my favorite artists coming into this season, and I hope your time on the show means there will be a chance that you can make your mark in the country field.  I wish you all the best, my dear.  Erin, I know your late dad would be proud of you and the effort you made in the Battle Round shown Monday night.  And I know you'll try and make sure your voice rings loud and true heading to the Live Shows.



That's it for now, folks.  As I have said before, please check out The Voice on NBC.com, where you can also find out more on the artists, and even interviews with all involved.  You can also check out their Facebook page as well, for more goodies.  I'm sure they'll appreciate your input as well.

This is the Wolffe, until next time, take care, be good, God bless, I'm gone, bye bye.   NUFF SAID!

"It's not necesarily narcissism, bud..."

Recently, I'd had a friend comment about one of my earlier blogs, who had mentioned that some of my comments bordered on the line of narcissism.  That was odd, but I could see where he was going, especially in regards to the fact I'd wanted to have a big celebration later this year when I reached the "magic" age of 50.  I'd replied to him, "bud, it's not necessarily narcissism, but the long established trait that I have about birthdays." 

Now, I know to some people (including my best friend and my partner), birthdays just seem like another day in the year, that it's not really something to look forward to.  They've become so jaded over all the bad stuff that keeps happening all around them, whether it affects them directly or indirectly, from what I can observe.  And that kind of thinking keeps them in a mindset that things will never have the ability to change, hopefully for the better.  They feel that it doesn't matter, whatever time of the year, that things, or life itself, for that matter, will always be a struggle.  It's not wrong to think that way, but to me, that just seems like a defeatist attitude.

I've been the exact opposite-the day you come into the world SHOULD be a day when, to use a popular term, "the universe revolves around ME," for a change.  That's also a silly way to explain it, but I think of it this way...you came into this world on that day, and you should be able to celebrate all the good that has happened, whether an award for a song or achievement, winning one big football game in your youth, meeting your lover for the first time and finding out he/she is your best friend.  And it's also a time you remember all the good times that you've had with your partner/spouse, your family, and your friends.  That nothing matters more than the love and good times you get out of life, and the fact you want to share even more with those people, while they're still around in your life.  And it's also a time to remember all those dear people that were part of your life, and are no longer there to share the memories you still cling to.

I said it in the past blogs, YES, I'm one selfish bastard, and always wanting more out of life-to the point I've been termed "insatiable" by a couple I knew (one half, thankfully, still around and one of my dearest friends).  But they got the gist of it, by also saying that if I'M insatiable for me, I'm just as insatiable to share it with the people who matter so much in my life, because if I feel I matter, THEY matter, too.  No greater love, in my book, is that person who knows how to share such a treasure as love with his friends and family.  And it's that love, that even pushes you to sacrifice, no matter what the cost, and when you do wrong, you'll go thru proverbial hell and high water to make things right by them and you.

That's why I've said that my birthday is a celebration for me, but also for ALL the folks I've had in my life, even for a brief time, to enjoy that time, to meet and share a feeling of pure happiness.  All this while the rest of the world can go on in all its insanity and misery, just for a few blessed hours.  And anybody who can do that, especially at a milestone just as mine, deserves to have the world just hang tight for a few moments and give them a pat on the back for getting thru.  And time be damned for thinking that this is a day for feeling sorry, as one CD put it a number of years ago, "age ain't nothing but a number," with the right mindset.

Right now, I've gone thru a personal hell of my own, and the fate of a few friendships that I want to share that moment in time with me is in serious jeopardy, even the fact at least one of them-a dear new soul I've just come to know-may not come back at all.  The fact that has happened, and I'll have to let time deal with it all, scares the dickens out of me.  I've always been scared I'd lose anyone and everyone I love because of something, whether thru outside interference, or in this particular instance, out of my own stupid decisions.  But to do nothing would be the bigger stupidity, not if you believe in the power of love, and the memory of those you hold so tight you'd damned make sure nothing happened to them, whether new ally or old friend.  And the fact I'm now one of the most impatient persons out there, coupled with a bad case of being too stubborn to change after a lot of compromising who I am, doesn't make this situation any easier. 

Music has always been a saving grace for me, and recently my head found clarity enough to reach into my CD collection and pull out a favorite, the Kenny Loggins CD "Leap Of Faith," from 1993.  The songs have been a godsend to my peace of mind of late, but one song gave me tremendous help lately to decide to move on.  Folks are familiar with Kenny's earlier hit "This Is It," dealing with having to make a choice one way or another.  "Now Or Never," from "Leap," deals with a man "stuck out here on the precipice," having to decide to take that leap of faith, not knowing if he'll find paradise, the one he prefers, or even one at all.  In a way, that man is me, stuck out here, not knowing who will be there when he finds his way back.  But I can't take that risk and let my anger, my frustration, my sorrow, turn me very bitter, and cause more damage.  I've told a few friends to watch out for me, and with that, take the first few steps, hopefully to ease my mind, and theirs.  The only thing I asked the heavens was for my friends to be there by that time I want to celebrate, no other gift will ever satisfy that part of me, not til I can feel I'm home again, with them.

The final chorus of Kenny's song goes as follows, as sung by Kenny, his longtime singer buddy Michael McDonald, and Michael's sister Maureen (who appeared on Michael's "I Keep Forgetting").....

"In every heart comes a time, when you need it, then you'll find, only love can last forever.."
(Reposted with permission, Copyright 1991, Gnossos Music (ASCAP)/Southshore Music (BMI)/Columbia-Sony Music)

This is the hope, that the love I lost will return, maybe not as I imagined, but as I said, any love would be better than none at all, the way things have been.  And I imagine for anyone else going thru a similar situation that somehow you've GOT to believe that things can turn around, whatever situation.  It may take time (and sometimes, more time than you want or have), it will take effort, but for those you love, if you believe in love and those you love, like me, you'll be damned not to try and get it back.  The fact I want to have those people in my life, old and new, there when that "certain day" is there, to share the fun and love with, that they matter so much, even more than your own life sometimes, that's incentive, brother.  THAT'S incentive.

To those of you who have visited, thanks for checking me out.  Maybe sometimes the rambling is a little bit cluttered, but I can assure you, I'll do my best to make sure you can understand ME a little better, as well as share some of the interests that we all share.  All I ask, is keep sharing, and keep checking back-you might just get a surprise along the way, God willing.

Until next time, this is the Wolffe, take care, be good, God bless, I'm gone, bye-bye.  NUFF said.

The Voice, Season 2-Battle Rounds, Week 2

All right, folks, I hope you've not watched the show tonight just yet, because here we go with the latest round up reagarding the Battle Rounds, which determine who make the Live Shows coming up in April.  BTW, NBC has announced there will be a second show per week as well, a one hour wrap up of the Live Shows, as well as special surprises on Tuesdays, starting April 3rd, in between NBC's "Biggest Loser" and the new reality competition "Fashion Star."  Anyway, if you're up for it, here's tonight's Rounds, blow by blow, along with my own observations...

Battle #1--Geoff McBride vs Sera Hill, Team Christina, singing "Chain Of Fools" by Aretha Franklin

This would prove to be a battle that either one could win, actually, thanks to the vocal strength of Sera Hill and the experience of Geoff McBride.  With a little coaching from R&B legend Lionel Richie (who helped Geoff) and folk pop/country artist Jewel (who assisted Sera), they were able to perfect their techniques, with Geoff learning how to temper his powerful delivery, and Sera being taught how to project her voice to meet his.  Even though I felt Geoff did the better job delivering the tune during the performance, I felt Sera building up the strength she needed.

MY PICK: Sera (again, either one could have taken this)
WINNER:  Sera
TO THE BATTLERS:  Geoff, you proved that age is NOT a weakness when it comes to performing or talent, I am sure that you still made your late father proud.  Sera, you did fine enough to move on, but I would definitely improve on the vocal strength heading into the Live Shows.  Christina believes enough in your talent to do the impromptu duet, now you just need to take that experience and grow.



Battle #2--Charlotte Sometimes vs Lex Land, Team Blake, singing "Pumped Up Kicks" by Foster The People

I knew that Lex Land, even with her sultry voice (and I admit, I like her as a singer, as a person, and as a friend to two of my favorite "Voice"-ers, Tje Austin and Nakia), would have a fight on her hands with alternative rocker-would-be Charlotte Sometimes, with her "playful personality" and mad vocal skills.  Still, Lex did her best to come out of her shell (with the help of Blake's wife, singer Miranda Lambert), while former "American Idol" Kelly Clarkson did her job to help temper Charlotte's loud style a bit.  But when it came to the battle, Lex had a sultry presence that was great to watch, but once the turn came to Charlotte, the New Jersey girl let it rip.

MY PICK:  Charlotte
WINNER:   Charlotte
TO THE BATTLERS:  Lex, I know you gave it all that you had, just you were outgunned.  I hope that you had a good experience doing the show, and a lot of tales for your Austin buddies.  Charlotte, you are gonna be a strong competitor during the Live Shows, but like Jesse Campbell, I will ask you to remember to temper that feistiness just a bit.  Confident is good, but being too cocky can give you problems.



Battle #3--Sarah Golden vs Juliet Sims, Team Cee-Lo, singing "Stay With Me" by Rod Stewart

Sarah Golden, much like Lex Land in Blake's battle of the night, is a capable artist, and very capable of adapting her folk rock sound to any song she chooses (as she did with Lady GaGa in her audition).  But with her going against the powerful vocals of rocker Juliet Sims, she had an uphill battle on her hands for sure.  Sarah did receive some much needed counsel on trying to make the song fit, thanks to producer/singer Kenny "Babyface" Edmunds, much like Juliet did on voice control from new R&B star singer/producer Ne-Yo.  But as much as Sarah was able to channel a bit of her personality into this Rod Stewart classic, it was Juilet who took this particular match.

MY PICK:  Juliet
WINNER:   Juliet
TO THE BATTLERS:  Sarah, you have an amazing talent for putting your own feel on songs, and that will make you stronger doing your own music.  Juliet, you're picking up, my dear, the key is to learn how to master that control, whatever song you're doing, but you have some incredible power in your vocals, well done.


Battle #4--Kim Yarbrough vs Whitney Myer, Team Adam, singing "No More Drama" by Mary J. Blige

Putting one of the youngest contestants against a senior performer was tough for Christina, but I think Adam may have had it even tougher.  Whitney's developing vocal power against the power and experience of Kim was such that it could have gone either way, to be honest, as well.  And they were learning how to temper those strengths, thanks to coaches alternative rock diva Alanis Morissette (who helped Whitney) and R&B/pop producer/singer Robin Thicke (who aided Kim).  Even though I had thought Whitney would win this one (and I hated seeing these two battle), the performance proved that Kim still had-and HAS-what it takes to take a song to the next level.

MY PICK:  Whitney
WINNER:   Kim  (OK, my second "upset" of the tourney, I sound so NCAA here <G>)
TO THE BATTLERS:  Whitney, I think you do have a bright future ahead, as Adam agreed, all it takes is to just develop your style and your vocal talent, and that comes with experience, as you can learn from Adam and Kim.  Kim, big momma, you also proved that age isn't a factor in making sure you can sing and perform, I am glad this "upset" got you into the Live Shows, you certainly deserve a shot.


Battle #5--Lindsey Pavao vs Lee Koch, Team Christina, singing "Heart Shaped Box" by Nirvana

This was one of the more "interesting" sessions of the Battle Rounds so far, with such a left field choice for both singers, and seeing it, there were a couple moments that either could also have won this round.  Still, Lindsey proved to have the talent for this kind of song, while Lee struggled to make sure he could get the feel of the song.  It also took some good coaching from Jewel (for Lee) and Lionel Richie (for Lindsey) to make sure that their strengths came thru.  But as has been the case tonight, it seems that the people I've picked have been the one that really got into the song and made it their night to shine.

MY PICK:  Lindsey
WINNER:   Lindsey
TO THE BATTLERS:  Lee, I don't think you'll have to worry about not being able to make a living other than by baking fresh bread (but I'd love a pumpernickel loaf when we meet <G>).  I think you have a unique way of approaching a tune, and it'll come thru with some time and experience.  Lindsey, I think you're starting to grow into your own experience, and that time you've done with the coffee shops has paid off-and the best to you in the Live Shows.


Battle #6--Jamar Rogers vs Jamie Lono, Team Cee-Lo, performing "I Wanna Know What Love Is" by Foreigner

Cee-Lo, last year, you put two of my favorite artists against each other, this year, it was time to have one battling a new friend, as Jamar battled Jamie for the next spot.  (And don't ya hate stuff like that?  <G>)  Anyway, with Jamar's powerful vocals, Jamie, indeed, had his work cut out for him, as his voice began to shake and crack a bit during rehearsals.  A bit of coaching from "Babyface" helped out Jamie, true, but I don't think Jamar needed too much more coaching from his idol Cee-Lo or his guest Ne-Yo to help him face the battle.  Jamie did his best to make sure he could get thru it, but there wasn't much doubt who prevailed.

MY PICK:  Jamar
WINNER:   Jamar
TO THE BATTLERS:  Jamie, you showed true courage and spirit and gave it your all, and the vocals you gave were good.  But I know it was bittersweet being beaten out by your new friend, but I hope this isn't the last we hear from you.
Jamar, you are blessed with some powerful vocal ability, and to be honest, your spirit has moved a number of us, particularly me, with what you've done, being to your own hell and back, and now chasing your dream.  You and Tony Vincent join a couple other folks I want SO much to win this contest, just to prove you can fight on.

That's it from here, folks, I hope that you've enjoyed these blogs as much as I've enjoyed writing them.  I know the subjects have ranged from topical to personal, but I hope that you take the time to read them, and please let me know what you think.  I'll be back next Monday/Tuesday with another look at "The Voice," and see you down the road otherwise.  From the Wolffe, take care, be good, God bless, I'm gone, bye-bye.  NUFF SAID!

Welcome to the Wolffe's Den, Part 2 (or, "Why In The HELL Am I Doing This?")

Hey there, guys....

Before we go any further, I wanted to get back to who I am, as Matt Gillis, and my wily and sometimes wacky alter ego "CCWolffeNC," and just why in the world why I'd go ahead and subject myself to writing this blog.  And just what I want to do while doing it, much less why I'm beginning to be hellbent on making sure folks read this.  Trust me when I say it's not for the ego (although I do admit some sort of satisfaction when I find out that people do read the blog), but it's just to make sure I can let people know who I am, and maybe in turn, I can find out more about them, too.

Short story version at all possible, I'm a goofy guy, a sort of "misfit" who never quite fits into what some might term the "real world."  I came into this world on a late Monday afternoon, according to the family, on August 19, 1962, approximately 4:40 pm-no wonder I work better on second shifts, and love having fun that much more.  <G>  I'm from a big Catholic family, being sixth of seven kids and the third of four boys, which resided on Long Island, NY, at the time (the central part of the island, Massapequa).  My dad worked for Western Electric (the old AT&T Bell Labs division in its earlier days) as a research and development head, working on systems for its various clients, while my mom was left to deal at times with seven different kids and seven different personalities.  And trust me when I say that my mom deserves a lot of credit for dealing with such "chaos" at times, and letting dad chime in whenever he had to.  Fortunately, both of them have a love that is pure and genuine, grounded in the Catholic Church, but that transcended so much they became the kind of folks you'd want as your own parents. 

In 1966, about the time I turned 4, my dad was transferred to a Western Electric facility in North Carolina. Let's say during that time, we celebrated three birthdays while being stuck at the old Sheraton Hotel in Winston-Salem while getting a house of our own-mine, my mom's, and my next older brother Andy's in October.  But it wasn't long before we finally moved just east of Winston-Salem and became a long standing part of the neighborhood, including the local elementary school across the street.  And to say I was one of the quirkiest kids you'd ever meet is an understatement, all thru elementary and middle schools, and all I wanted to do was just fit in.  I wasn't the wealthiest, the smartest, the funniest, the most athletic, the most troublemaking, none of that-and it kinda hurt just to find my niche.  I could be entertaining, since I did have a powerful stage presence for school plays and even a little bit of a "voice" <G>, but I was still looked on for being a bit weird.  I could also do artwork and comic drawings, which I did until high school and never pursued after that, maybe as a wrong decision.  But growing up as a "misfit" never suited me-and being a closeted "gay" guy with a thing for burly guys didn't exactly win me support, either.  Let's face it, back in those days, Southern states were not known for tolerance, and gay jokes were all too damned common. 

One thing I'd enjoyed was music, maybe not singing it, but finding out about music and its artists.  That led me to a lifelong love affair with the radio, first AM, and then later on the quirkiness of FM, in all sorts of music from country (which was more the "twang" type country) to the tunes of rock, disco, and so on.  And of course, it also made me want to become a DJ, or at least be involved with the music biz, particuarly with DJs like Dick Clark, a California DJ named John Leader (a well known voiceover artist), and of course, "Shaggy" of Scooby Doo himself, the legendary Casey Kasem.  I'd had the ambition to maybe study both broadcasting and/or journalism (since I seemed to have a gift for writing, as you have noticed now <G>), because I was dying to pursue that kind of work.  When I finally had the chance to study both in college, I decided to do so, with a possibility of also doing some serious journalistic work-and chose political science as my major, journalism as my minor (and broadcasting as a second minor later).  What I found out, was, unfortunately, it took WORK to do that.  I'm much more of a social creature by nature, and my grades didn't exactly work out the way I wanted to (and the first year was marred by the death of my beloved grandfather and the admittance of two of my sisters' marriages being torn apart0. 

I'd even gone down the route of becoming "born again" by a dear friend who loved me, but he was scared of his own gay past, and how torturous it was for him.  But the fact we'd gone ahead and had a "romance" that ended badly-and that I took it even worse-killed that, plus my college career.  To say I regret hurting him, most of all, remains one of my darkest "sins" that haunts me to this day.  I returned home to start going ahead and paying off those bills, first at a goofy gas station/convenience store, then at a fast food place, then at the first of four retail jobs I've had over the years.  But I could never stay completely out of trouble, because I wanted to be "right" when it came to everything, and that I still felt like I wasn't given enough respect.  But at least at the retail job, I had some amount of respect, even when I got into serious trouble.  And I guess the fact you deal with the public, you have the duty to treat people exactly how you'd like to be treated-even if I may never have gotten praise from the store, I got it from the customers. 

But, that time at that store came to a serious end when a young man, several years younger, came to work at the store along with his mom.  We got along terrifically, even to the point he and I did spend time having dinners at my place, by ourselves and later with a couple of my old high school buddies.  But it was a vacation that was poorly planned is when the friendship fell apart-enough to also make me question about how I really felt about him.  The truth is, it took a serious confrontation to have him get it out of me.  And when he asked "are you gay?", I told him "yes..and no," stating I'd become bisexual.  He left, and our friendship and my time at the store ended within a few days afterward, when I left after I felt again I'd caused too much pain to someone I respected and cared about very much.  The only saving grace was that, thru a temporary second job, I'd met a young man who was mischevious in a way, but also acted with such calm logic that it was the perfect opposite to my emotions sometimes.  And to say that this young man is still one of my dearest friends to this day is a testament to the fact we have helped each other so much, probably him helping me more than I have him, and that he is one of the damnedest best folks I have ever known.  Believe me when I say that when I talk about him and say I owe him my life ten thousand times over, NO JOKE.

Even more, he actually helped me out in discovering a new way to make my feelings and my writing skills known, by finally giving me the chance to discover computers.  Mind you, I'd seen both the big freakin' PCs that take up whole rooms, right down to the first Apples, Commodores, and IBMs.  I'd been intimidated, let's face it, I'm NOT a computer "geek" by any means.  But it took time and effort to learn the skills, and to learn about some of the good surprises on the way.  And with that, my friend David and I also started off another journey, into what is called the "bear/chub" part of the gay community, dealing with furry and/or beefy type guys (my admitted turn on since puberty), and helped find some of the best places to mingle (and thus, I started to become that "kid in the candy store").  Even before that, I'd also found a couple magazines that dealt with that sort of lifestyle, and my writing skills were itching to develop, but after a couple of awful pen names, I'd almost given up.  Leave it to an old chat program to help me find my "alter ego," one that David and I tried out not long after I got online in '95.  I'd met a great guy who enjoyed chatting about anything and everything (and still does, he's also become one of my closest advisers and friends), getting in using a nickname David used to enter the chatroom (I later told him I was the one actually talking).

The next day, a new name came on in the chatroom, to where I managed to somehow private chat the moderator (same guy) and let him know "Hey, we chatted the other night, it's me, Matt."  And thus that night a "legend" was born-a feisty, furry little mother with an appetite for fun (and not just sexually), and a thirst to meet and  get to know all sorts of people.  I'd become what I called a "chubby chasing wolf," or "cool chasing wolf," depending on what day it was, and thus my online and pen name alter ego "CCWolffe" was born.  And since most people still ask where I'm from, I've normally used "CCWolffeNC" (the "NC" to represent North Carolina, my home state, of course) now online when I make my presence known.  I may alter the nickname just a bit at times, but most folks usually know it's me when you talk to me.  I can be shy at first sometimes (yes, duh), but if I'm around most of my pals, I can be quite the charmer.  But I also know when it's time for the playful side, and know when to be a great confidant.

I admit it, sometimes my social skills ain't worth a jack flip, and they can trip me up, even now.  I've had times where I've been involved with certain things, and I may have been a little more "social" than I needed to be.  But it wasn't from not wanting to do the right thing, and wanting to connect with people on all sorts of levels-and when confronted, it seemed that people thought I wasn't sincere or trustworthy.  And that's always been the thing that ticks me off more than anything-you may NOT like the way I do things, or may think I'm a reckless damned idiot, that people wouldn't give a damn about who I am or what I stand for, or that I'm not one you want to get to know.  But you'd better come to ME, first and foremost, not thru not any other channel or friend, even IF the message you're telling me hurts my feelings.  And the fact you're supposed to be my "friend," that hurts if you'd cven THINK I'd do anything like that to hurt anyone, intentional or not, I hope by confronting me that you'll find out, if I did, believe me, I'd be sincerely heartbroken.  This happened recently to someone I came to admire greatly, and the fact that now a new friend thinks I'm not even worth talking to (especially when the circumstances WERE my fault, admittedly) and may not give me that chance to rectify that damage, THAT HURTS.  Anyone who knows me will tell you, I have my faults, but I ask only the chance to prove I'm not as bad as you might think. 

Anyway...back to the present.  At least from a couple years ago, anyway.  I'd been asked to get onto Twitter and Facebook to keep up with certain people, but I'd never had the interest, time, or guts, for that matter, to go ahead and open myself up that much.  I'd also been part of a relationship (which I still am, and a great person, at that, even if I never give him all the praise he deserves) which didn't leave much room to go ahead and embark on the internet like that.  But it took a couple of interests to finally make me get onto Twitter, with the hope I'd go ahead and at least meet a celebrity or two that I liked.  I don't care what your background is, famous or not, religious or not, my race or not, gay or straight, as long as you're a human being who wants to share his or her life story with me, good and bad, I'm here to listen, to understand, and to maybe even share some common ground with you.  I've been like that, will always be like that.  Like I said, blame some very understanding parents for that (and even been told so by my mom a number of years ago, a treasured moment burned into my brain for all eternity), and again, anyone who's become part of that "extended family" I now have (the folks I now refer to, affectionately, as my "WolffePack," corny but catchy), and met me online or in person if at all possible, if you talk to them about me, you'll find that out rather quickly, I sincerely hope. 

It looked like I'd given up on the Twitter world for good, and basically left that behind when other interests called me.  But several months ago, a couple of new items entered my sphere (including one that I've yakked about constantly, including here), letting me go ahead and get back online, but in a whole new way.  The Twitter account I have went from being on life support, to Warp 5, within a matter of a few hours <G>.  And it wasn't long before I got onto Facebook by year's end to also pursue such interests there-and thank God, there have been some folks I've come to respect who have "befriended" me, including a few new "celebrities" who have found out there's more to this "wolf" than meets the eye.  I guess the only thing that still hurts about all this, being a Leo like a few major stars, you crave the "spotlight" in a way.  And you don't want to wait on it, or lose it once you get it.  And being from a background and family where I've always been one to be the center of attention, sometimes that is hard, even for being my age.

Maybe the recent "issue" I mentioned comes into play, but then again, this might be my way to somehow "atone" for that kind of goof I caused.  I'm the type of person if I want to be a part of something or just want something for myself badly enough, I'll fight like hell.  There's been too many times I've gone ahead and got into something, but it went wrong and I had to regroup, or just leave it altogether.  Just now that I've reached age 50, almost (this August), it seems the opposite of just being patient, it seems that my time is running out, and it's a race I CAN'T dare lose.  My friends have always been there, and there have been a number of them that I have touched so deeply, it's been a genuine joy just to do so from the fact that they tell me that I have made one very big difference in their lives.  I love them to death for that, and a number of them that have said so, are among the reasons why I still continue to be online, and hurt and celebrate along with them.  But I'm also hoping to make sure, for those who still seem to think that I may not be someone that they want to deal with, and even for the ones that are in my corner, to know ALL of it, the good, the bad, the ugly, the funny, ALL of it that makes me who and what I am.  If you don't want to deal with me, that's your issue, and I wish you well in whatever you do, I just hope you don't hold me in a bad light.  But I'd love for you to see that I am NOT some irresponsible boob or monster, but a decent human being who just wants to get to know you, and get to know all about you, inside and out.  And if it were possible, just maybe break down the walls that divide us so you can see who this person named Matt Gillis/"CCWolffeNC" is-a guy with faults, yes, but a guy who loves life, his family, his friends, all kinds of music, good sci-fi, plays and musicals, travel, some reality TV ("The Voice" and "Survivor" at the top of that list), and above all, LOVE.  That, if anything, is the greatest gift one person can offer someone else, love.  The chance to say "Hey, I'm Matt, wanna talk and see if we can be friends?" and maybe just strike up something that can be good for you both. 

Right now, I've been parading around some of the sites I've become known to frequent, hoping that people will take a look at my blog.  (And of course, my favorite TV show at the moment has become something of a "draw" for some folks, and trust me when I say that won't stop continuing, and will include more of my interests.)  I hope that if you've finally got the nerve to read this, whether you happen to be a friend of mine, or someone who's made a point of catching it just because a friend or even a celebrity mentioned this, READ it.  And I mean read thru, all the blog entries that I offer.  You don't have to leave me a message here or on my email (which I have mentioned, although that would be nice), but make sure you do go ahead and share it with someone.  I want you to find out what makes me tick, and realize some of what goes on inside me, even if you've known me for years.  Good or bad, you might be surprised, and I hope it also means that you might find out I'm not such a bad egg, at least I HOPE to God I'm not.  To the people I have known, you'll see what does make me tick.  To those I may have hurt before, this is my way of maybe explaining why I am sorry, and why I would give anything to help heal those ties.  To those that don't know me, this is a way to make sure you know how to meet me halfway.  And to everyone, to show you how much I care about life, love, and all of you-and how damned proud I am to find out I'm not alone in this world.  And to hopefully face my "bucket list" years with the same zest for life I've had for the past 50 years.

That's it from here, I'll talk to you all next time from my "neck" of the North Carolina woods.  And please make sure to tell someone about this blog-and I hope you all stop by often.  Until then, this is the Wolffe wishing you well, take care, be good, God bless, I'm gone, bye-bye.  NUFF SAID.

Once again, a word from the Wolffe himself....

Hey again, folks, I've found out that there are a few of you who've already read the blog and would like to get back with me and respond.  As I have said before, just catch me here (and I think some of you have already managed to leave me a comment), or try me at my email...

CCWolffeNC1962@aol.com

And I hope that you'll get the word out about this new project I've started-the fact I'm now crossing over from the Facebook/Twitter world and now into a bigger part of the "mainstream," it means so much to me that I hope people give me the chance to post my feelings.   And to understand where I'm coing from, and that I might learn where you guys are coming from.

AND...since you guys know I've starting tweeting a bit about NBC's "The Voice," it's only fair that I add the place where you can really focus on finding out about the show.  Try http://nbc.com/the-voice-that's where you'll go right to the show's website, to find out about its contestants, its star panel, and even leave a comment there as well.  I know that Carson Daly (the host), Christina Milian (its new media reporter), and the gang will well appreciate that, and tell them that "The Wolffe" sent you.  You can also download tunes from the various contestants from Season 1 and Season 2 at iTunes, in a special arrangement they've made with the show-and some of those tune downloads can help your favorite artists in the competition move on into the Finals, I'll explain right after the Battle Rounds conclude.  Plus, if you're on Twitter, you can also tweet "@NBCTheVoiceFan," and reach one of my pals and her webpage, since she's damned good at keeping up with the show far more than I have.  (There's also a couple more people who've also been good at inside info, and I'll let you know more about them before long.) 

That's it from here, I'll be back next few days with another "howl" from my neck of the North Carolina woods.  Take care, be good, God bless, I'm gone, bye-bye, NUFF SAID!  :)

The Voice Season 2-Battle Rounds, Week 1

All right, guys....as people have found out right now, one of my biggest TV "gotta watch" shows recenly has become NBC's NEW #1 hit show "The Voice."  And I'll be glad to find the link to the NY Times that just popped out the news the other day that "American Idol" has been overtaken, but by bit, and fast, for you.  And the fact that this show has gotten bigger, the shows just need to be better as we head to the big finale.

That being said, the Battle Rounds have begun on Season 2 of "The Voice," with the first such battles taking place last night.  For those STILL finding out about it, we've gotten thru the "blind auditions," where the artists were chosen by the coaches to fill the teams.  Now, each coach will start picking songs, and put two acts against each other singing the same song-and the battles are basically two acts compete on stage, but only ONE will win the battle and move onto to the live show quarterfinals.  The coaches will also feature guest "advisers" to help out the artists as they prepare, and like everything else, the talent backing up Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Christina Aguliera, and Cee-Lo Green has improved tenfold.  I've alluded to the guest stars last blog, but I will refer to them again shortly.  But last year was already impressive, with some memorable twosomes taking the stage, the best that I can remember, being...

----Beverly McClellan and Justin Grennan doing a great rendition of The Who's "Baba O'Reilly (Teenage Wasteland)" (aka the CSI: New York theme), doing Roger Daltry very much justice
----The soulfully smooth Tje Austin and the powerful bluesman Nakia tackling, and blending well, on Ne-Yo's R&B smash "Closer"
----Frenchie Davis and TeraLynn Ramsey going very toe-to-toe on Beyonce's "All The Single Ladies (Put On A Ring On It)" and tearing the house down
----and the most intense of last year....Vicci Martinez and Niki Dawson going to the wire on Pink's "Perfect" and leaving us all exhausted (and I'm still exhausted)

All right...enter last night's start of the Season 2 Battle Rounds.  By no means were they spectacular as a whole, but it was a good start to what could be a very dynamic and surprising season on "The Voice."  But I'm beginning to wonder if the coaches realize this season has to be bigger and badder than last, now with all the hype, and that the contestants HAVE to bear down.  But here's my take...

Battle #1-Tony Lucca and Chris Cauley, Team Adam, singing "Incredible Day" from U2

I gave Tony the edge on this one IF he and Chris were going to battle to move on, and oddly enough, my thought that they were gonna be doing so was confirmed.  (Sorry, Chris.)  Fortunately, they both had some good help-Tony getting some help from (oddly enough) fellow former child star and alternative rock diva Alanis Morissette, who helped Tony ease his voice into place to fit the song; and Chris getting help to bring out his voice, thanks to another former child actor and now R&B/pop performer Robin Thicke (actor Alan Thicke of "Growing Pain"'s son).  Even though Chris had the stronger vocals, I felt that Tony was a bit more polished in his delivery, even though not as loud.    This is a strong battle round that the artists need to take a look at, to see where to go on the show, and not a bad tool for anyone else trying out for the show.

MY PICK:  Tony Lucca
WINNER:   Tony Lucca
 TO THE BATTLE ARTISTS:  Tony, you did come thru with it, although more subtle, but you'll have to make sure that voice is more determined.  Chris, you've got a smooth delivery usually, and I think you've got some good "pipes" (as I call "chops"), I'm sure this isn't the last we'll see of you.


Battle #2-RaeLynn and Adley Stump, Team Blake, singing "Free Fallin'" from Tom Petty

Blake, to be honest, you misstepped on your battle rounds, this one being one of the two I liked least, all because of what some people did and did NOT make the cut on the auditions.  This was a clear case of the song NOT fitting the contestants, although I know both of them did their best.  And it wasn't because of the lack of help-Adley being mentored by former season 1 "American Idol" champ (and Blake's new BFF) Kelly Clarkson (but points for sticking it to Randy and Ryan, though <G>); while RaeLynn got to meet the other half of her idols, none other than Blake Shelton's wife, country spitfire Miranda Lambert (and that was a heartwarming meeting, indeed).  Just the way the battle rang out, RaeLynn had too much country "twang" in her performance, while Adley, although slightly better on the vocal strength, wasn't much better, either.  This one could have gone either way, although I guessed probably Blake would be strategizing who might be better for the live shows, as some have kind of suggested.

MY PICK: RaeLynn (although Adley could have taken this)
WINNER: RaeLynn
TO THE BATTLE ARTISTS:  RaeLynn, you definitely did your best, considering the material, but you might get Blake to get you "closer to home" for the Live Shows.  Adley, you actually do have some power to your vocals, I think this was just the wrong song and the wrong opponent for you-and we will be keeping our eyes to see what happens for our favorite sorority girl this year.  Hugs, m'dear.


Battle #3-Chris Mann vs Monique Benabou, Team Christina, singing "The Power Of Love" by Celine Dion

Monique, I felt, needed some fine tuning on her strength, while Chris (the opera "mann") had to learn control over his delivery.  Forunately, there was some expert help here as well-thanks to Chris working with R&B/funk/pop/adult legend Lionel Richie, and Monique getting some expert help from award winning singer/songwriter Jewel.  Even though there were moments it seemed like the both of them were a little off balance, it was still a good duet (and BTW, that song HAS been done before by both male and female artists-Laura Branigan originally in '80, Air Supply a couple years later in '82, and Celine's version in '92-and if I'm wrong on any of the dates, I apologize).  And this was one that could have gone either way, although I think Chris' voice carried a little better.

MY PICK: Chris Mann
WINNER:  Chris Mann
TO THE BATTLE ARTISTS:  Chris, going from opera to pop can't be an easy task, thankfully, you had a coach that understands how to handle vocal strength.  Monique, I think you developed well with Christina, although not as good as you wanted, don't give up and learn the lessons from all of this, and you will be stronger.


Battle #4-Angie Johnson vs Cheesa, Team Cee-Lo, singing "Total Eclipse Of The Heart" by Bonnie Tyler

Cheesa has some powerful strength in her voice that needed polishing, but I felt Angie Johnson had the stronger voice, enough to make her a stronger pick in my team standings.  Both these ladies also received some serious help-Cheesa got help from producer/artist extraordinaire Kenny "Babyface" Edmunds (YES, the sometime partner of "X Factor" judge LA Reid-Simon and LA, are you watching this? <EG>), while Angie received help from one of the hottest new artist/producers in R&B, Ne-Yo (hmmm, his song featured last year, and he becomes a fan, go fig <G>).  The battle was intense on both sides, but I felt Cheesa kind of fell apart towards the end of the song, while Angie's voice picked up as the song progressed. 

MY PICK: Angie Johnson
WINNER: Cheesa    (DANG, Angie didn't win, but give Cheesa credit <G>)
TO THE BATTLE ARTISTS:  Cheesa, develop your strength and control before you hit the Live Shows, it's gonna be critical if you want to move on.  Angie, our singing Staff Sargeant, like others, I was proud to see you become the "Josh Gracin," kinda, of "The Voice."  You're a credit to the troops and a credit to your talent, you have a VERY powerful voice-I wish you well as you probably head back to military duty.  Cee-Lo, Carson, and the gang were glad to have you around, as I was, stay safe and sing strong!


Battle #5-Jordis Unga vs Brian Fuente, Team Blake, "Ironic" by Alanis Morissette (Ironic, eh? <G>)

Jordis has a uniquely strong voice, but Brian's not terribly far off, either.  But even with the coaching help-Brian with Kelly Clarkson, and Jordis with Miranda Lambert-Blake, I hate to say it AGAIN, but WRONG song choice, buddy.  During the performance, Jordis couldn't keep a firm control on her performance, and she started going to pieces a bit.   And Brian got to a point his vocals went all over the place a bit as well.  What's the line from Star Wars that makes me sound like Yoda right now?  Oh, yeah, "control, control, you must learn control."  <G>  But to say that Jordis did have the better vocal ability, even with this performance.

MY PICK: Jordis Unga
WINNER:  Jordis Unga
TO THE BATTLE ARTISTS:  Brian, it's a matter of making sure the vocals fit the song, and I'm not sure if this one would have made a good impact.  Jordis, at least you gave the better shot, I am glad, but just make sure your nerves DON'T let it get the better of you again.  That can spell some disaster, and as the one I still see as possibly Blake's overall Finalist, again, you gotta learn control. 


Battle #6-Jesse Campbell vs Anthony Evans, Jr., Team Christina, singing "If I Ain't Got You" by Alicia Keyes

Again, I had the feeling THESE two were gonna be battling it out to move on-and that Anthony was in for the fight of his life.  That's two for two, I need to be betting in Vegas here.  <G>  But I saw Jesse getting a little cocky and throwing a little much attitude at Anthony-TOO much gets you off the show in a hurry, my friend, it takes some confidence and making sure it doesn't become arrogance.  But with a little help from Lionel Richie (who helped bring Jesse back to earth, by telling him to work without working too hard) and Anthony Evans, Jr. (who helped bring Anthony bring out the passion), the artists made sure to get themselves ready.  And what developed was the equivalent of both the Frenchie vs TaraLynn AND Vicci vs Niki battles last year COMBINED-try "knock you out of your freakin' chair, it's THAT DAMNED good" type performance.  Anthony's voice was rough, Jesse's being smooth (geez, reminds me of another "collaboration" from last year, too), and they just combined into one powerful, POWERFUL performance.  The fact that these two are gospel singers by bcakground, we can definitely say that they "took us to church," INDEED.  And to say I am now fans of the two of them is an understatement.

MY PICK:  Jesse Campbell  (barely, but yes)
WINNER:   Jesse Campbell
TO THE BATTLE ARTISTS:  Anthony, you have won my respect, your talent shone thru at the right time, it was just the fact that Jesse was just that little bit better, and you were gracious in your defeat, I know this isn't end for you, my friend.  Jesse, GREAT job, but let me state the one thing-DON'T get cocky, even though you are my number one pick to win.  You want it all, but let it come to you and take it easy while doing it, but not where you have to lighten up on your vocals.  But getting to be an egomaniac may hurt you along the way when all is said and done on "The Voice," I know you're fighting for the chance to improve your career.  I promise you that can happen, and you can still wind up being someone that we can like a lot.


WHEW....that's it for this go-around of the blog.  The main thing I will say to all the artists who have made it thru, find your focus, find your heart, find your strength (mentally and in your vocal ability), and make sure that the journey does not get the best of you.  That will carry you thru the competition and the "after life" that awaits.  You've joined a big phenomenom, now the biggest new competition in the country, according to all the magazines, news sites, and on the web.  And trust me, I've seen every article now available, every website possible, and even got the Rolling Stone issue to prove it-and the only thing left on my bucket list concerning The Voice is to finally meet some of these artists and all in person one day.  They've made a lot of people believe artists have talent, passion, and heart again, yours truly now damned included in that mix.

Until I gab next time, this is the "Wolffe," prowling around the North Carolina woods, looking for fun and new friends of all types.  Ya'll take care, be good, God bless, I'm gone, bye-bye, NUFF SAID!   :)