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!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Friday, March 16, 2012
"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.
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.
Monday, March 12, 2012
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!
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!
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
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.
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.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
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! :)
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! :)
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! :)
Sunday, March 4, 2012
A little note from the blogger himself here-if you're trying to reach me, well...
Hey there, guys, I've found out a couple people have checked out my blog, but are having problems trying to get a reply in. Please bear with me, since all this is kinda new to me, and I will do my best to fix the problem. But, just in case, if you're interested in getting a response out to me (and I may be able to plaster it on her somehow), and just can't do it here, just drop me a line at my email---CCWolffeNC1962@aol.com--and I'll be glad to muse over all the comments, good and bad. But believe me, I look forward to the chance to find out what we do and don't have in common. :)
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