Thursday, February 24, 2011

The Bieber Fever Phenomenon



    "They may be crazy but they're the ones that help me to be here and who put me where I am 
in the first place. I never worry about getting more fans as it spreads. 
And, by the way, there is no cure for 'Bieber Fever'!"

     — Justin Bieber saying there is no cure for Bieber Fever / February 17, 2011

What is this "Bieber Fever"?  

What is a 45-year-old married woman really mean when she says she has "The Fever"?  For those who don't know Justin Bieber (the teen singing sensation) as a person, and haven't seen the movie, Justin Bieber: Never Say Never, they think, the fever is just for the person himself, Justin Bieber (JB).  But no, it's much bigger than that. I can attest to that.  I am 30 years his senior and he has sparked something inside. He has touched my heart.  Maybe it's the pride I share with the parents of a teenager who's making them proud. Maybe it's knowing that my teenagers appreciate and enjoy seeing other's stories of success and know that they too can be whatever, do whatever they want. He's a great motivator and inspiration for everyone.  Is it seeing my 13-year-old dtr swoon over a wholesome young man with a gift for making others feel happy and filling their hearts with love and hope? Is it his youthful charm?  Zest for life? Joy de vivre? Positivity?  Love?  Affection?  Energy?  Hope for the younger generations?  I have been starstruck by his talent, drive and energy. I have been touched by the story of his life up until this point. 

Fever is an elevated temperature. Bieber Fever is an elevated zest for life, loving and music. It's contagious. He's a fellow Canadian making it big. We all have a part of him in us. We all want him to be successful and keep spreading his joy and happiness. What about those Bieber-Haters?  The Non-Beliebers. Who are they?  What are they saying? Is it shear jealousy?  Are they afraid of their feelings? The infectious energy, drive and talent of this young Canadian man is spreading across the globe at an alarming rate.  I am enjoying the ride, and hope that as JB matures and grows as an artist, he stays on the right track.  With a mentor like Usher and his parents, I am hopeful things will keep going in the right direction for him as he is propelled into Superstardom.

As I am mesmorized by him, I notice that women of all ages are also claiming to have the Fever.  The Fever comes in different temperatures.  The young girls have a much more serious condition than us older women.  You could say I have a low-grade temperature.  But it's serious, non-the-less. I am sure that there are male counterparts that are not only getting a bit of the fever, but are reveling in what this condition is doing for the ladies.

Justin Bieber may be the result of a strategic, well-laid plan, but in my opinion he has so much more to give.  He's a positive light in this world full of negativity. People have complained that he's being shoved in our faces - but what's wrong with him?  I'd much rather focus on a positive thing than a negative thing.  There are bad things going on in the world that I have no control over.  Why shove that in our faces?  At least JB can make us smile, tap our toes, and have hope for the future. 

Michael Jackson started out at a very young age.  Elvis Presley was fond of black gospel music.  JB is fond of black rappers.  Many young girls are listening to these types of singers.  JB changed his hair, and his fans reacted strongly.  He wanted a more mature look.  He's growing up.  I am excited for the future for JB.  What is around the corner for him?  He's becoming a man - the fever is rising.  He's just a "hunk, a hunk, of burning love".

JB has a song called Pray.  In the music video he visits people in hospitals.  In this video are clips of communities that were destroyed by natural disasters.  He is a humanitarian. He has such potential to make big changes in the world.  Reminds me of Lady Diana and all the good she was trying to do.  He has such a big future ahead of him.  He can have it for as long as he wants according to Usher.  This is history in the making.

Definitions: 

Biebermania - The intense fan frenzy towards Justin Bieber.  

Bieber Fever -  The contagious feeling of adoration for Justin Bieber.  It can be intensely sickening. 

Belieber - A play on the word, Believer.  Someone who is a fan of Justin Bieber. 

Non-Belieber or Unbelieber - People who don't like Justin Bieber, his music, or the way he rose to fame.  Also known as Justin Haters.

I leave you with a link to Justin's music video, Pray: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9tJW9MDs2M





Justin Bieber - Never Say Never Movie Review: http://www.starpulse.com/news/SheKnows_Entertainment/2011/02/09/justin_bieber_never_say_never_movie_re#user_comments
Have a great day!


~ Angela Gentile

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Justin Bieber: Never Say Never (Movie Review)


My family and I went to see the high-energy, entertaining, touching, funny movie, "Justin Bieber - Never Say Never".  We saw it in 3D, but overall I think it would be okay in regular theatres (the best 3D part was at the end when the confetti was falling down and it felt like we were at his concert).  Never Say Never is a movie about a young (will be 17 on March 1, 2011), wholesome Canadian boy who's rise to fame happened very quickly. The movie has a strong sense of "Reality", as it includes clips of home video, and concert footage. It's not often that my cheeks hurt from smiling so much.  The young guy who likes to wear white, black and purple has the audience tapping their feet to his upbeat songs, and wiping tears from touching moments.  There are references to prayer, and God, and it is a feel-good movie. You can't help but like (or even fall in love) with the little boy that has a cute smile, and beautiful eyes.  It's much like when you fall in love with a puppy. We get to go along with him on his journey.  By the end of the movie, he feels like part of the family, and we all root for his success.     

Touchy-Feely 
In the movie, there is a lot of affection.  The young Bieber is left to be raised by his teenage mother and her parents.  His father leaves him at 10 months of age.  Throughout the movie, you can see public displays of affection as he is hugged, kissed, held and even lovingly/teasingly thrown around a bit.  Bieber is not short on affection himself.  You can tell he was raised with a lot of love, and he is not afraid to reach out and touch his fans as he runs past them.   At one point Bieber is singing with mega-star Miley Cyrus.  At times Bieber gets in really close and touches Miley - the audience screams in delight.  Glimpses of Bieber's budding sexuality thrills the audience. 

Dream Come True 
One of my favourite parts in the movie is when he sings his song, "One Less Lonely Girl".  One young female fan is picked to be the "Lonely Girl".  She is brought up to the stage, and Bieber serenades her.  He presents her with a big boquet of roses.  I think every young girl in the audience wishes it was her.  The "Lonely Girls" in almost every case, sit on the stool, mesmorized, overwhelmed with the attention of Bieber as he sings to her and touches her lovingly.  Bieber does a great job of making his fans feel special.  It's all about the fans at that point. The emotions are over the top, and I could feel my heart swelling.  My heart was happy - happy that such a young man could bring a once in a lifetime experience to an unsuspecting, typical fan.  A gift of happiness.  My second-most favourite part is when you see Bieber's Dad watching his son at his concert.  His pride and love for his son is apparent as he is wiping the tears from his eyes.  He is touched by watching his son's dream come true. 

Black and White
This young, white kid is seen on the grand stage with many black artists.  The contrast is striking.  Bieber isn't that tall, and he appears larger than life as he graces the stage with artists like Usher and Sean Kingston.  There is an "Ebony and Ivory" feel to the whole story.  He is taken under the wing by Usher, who enjoys watching Bieber's rise to fame.

Messages to Leave With 
Bieber's movie leaves you with feelings such as never give up, live your dream, be yourself.  The confidence he has makes people realize it's okay to be yourself. He presents himself in a way that does not appear to be arrogant.  He makes fun of himself - Don't take yourself too seriouslyDo what you love to do and you'll be a happy person.  The movie does not make references to money, but it does leave you with the sense that if you have a goal, and believe in it, you can do it.  Another main message is never underestimate the power of the internet.  YouTube, emails, social networking sites (like Twitter) helped propel Bieber to superstardom. In a world that is full of negativity, it's refreshing to see positivity and happiness. Staying in touch with your friends is also another important message.  No matter how our lives go, it's important to keep in touch with our friends. One of the latest songs Bieber did was called "Pray".  He is touching the hearts of many in a positive way.  A positive role-model is a good thing, right?


A great movie that has it all.  Highly recommended for those who love music, inspiration, motivation and excitement.  Particularly popular with the young girls.


Have a great day!


~ Angela Gentile


Coming Up - Bieber Fever - A Cultural Phenomenon

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Sand Animation - Playing in the Sand

Here is a unique form of art - "Sand Animation".  I remember playing in the sand as a kid. This is a YouTube.com video of the Ukraine Got Talent 2009 Winner, Kseniya Simonova.  Very unique and mesmorizing.  It makes you wonder what else is possible?  Looks like fun, too.



Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yYcEX5O5a4&feature=player_embedded

Have a great day!

~ Angela Gentile

Saturday, February 19, 2011

When Love Takes Over (Music Video)

Here is a great music video/song from David Guetta featuring Kelly Rowland, called When Love Takes Over. It is such a positive, upbeat song. It's a good one for dancing to.  Enjoy!

♥And I’ll be loving you all the time, it’s true
Cause I’ll wanna make it right, with you ♥


Here is the Youtube.com link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbfYAYNFOos&feature=fvst

Have a great day!
~ Angela Gentile

Friday, February 18, 2011

Who's That Sexy Chick? (Music Videos)

Here are two great music videos from Youtube.com by David Guetta.  The first, is David Guetta featuring Rihanna, and it's called, Who's That Chick?  The beat is very similar to his song, Sexy Bitch (David Guetta featuring Akon).  I have them both here for your viewing pleasure.  The Rihanna music video is so colourful, and fun. Both songs are fun to dance to.  Dancing is good for the soul.



Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-uEU0Q45hE&feature=fvst




Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7UYz9UyzUQ

Have a fantastic day!

~ Angela Gentile

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Happy Roses - Feel Good, Feel Happy


At one time, Guinness World Records named "Happy Roses" (also known as Rainbow Roses) the most expensive roses in the world. These are specially treated cream roses that are dyed to brilliant perfection. They make me happy just looking at them.

The Happy Rose is unique due to its rich and 
exuberant colour combination and the special 
colouring technique that lies hidden behind this. 
One look at this cheerful rose and you will feel happy.

 





Not available everywhere, unfortunately.  Here's one place you can get them: http://www.theultimaterose.com/

Have a great day!

~ Angela Gentile

Monday, February 14, 2011

I Will Always Love You, by Lin Yu Chun

Lin Yu Chun performs a Whitney Houston classic, I Will Always Love You and stuns the audience on Ellen.  Lin Yu Chun is a young, Taiwanese man singing his heart out and living his dream.  A refreshing, unique twist to a classic love song.  My gift to you for Valentine's Day. 

To see the video, "I Will Always Love You" by Lin Yu Chun, click on the arrow below, or go to this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezUPSuZhVP8&feature=related.


 

Take that, bullies!

Go to this link for Lin Yu Chun's Official Website.

Have a wonderful day. ♥
~ Angela Gentile

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

We All Need a Little Pep Talk Sometimes

I have a Think Positive Thoughts Every Day Calendar (2011) at work, and for this month, I found the words very encouraging and supportive.  It's especially good for those who are going through a hard time.  It reminds us that life isn't always easy, and it affirms to us that we can get through it with some encouragement.



        A Daily Pep Talk
     
           Repeat to yourself:
           "I am strong.  I am special. I can do anything."


          Sometimes life throws hurdles in our path,
          but we just have to keep on going full speed ahead,
          looking inside ourselves for the courage to leap over them 
          and never look back.


          You are a strong and special person, 
          and you can do anything. 
          May you always believe in yourself. ♥

             -by Natalie Evans


Pass this along to anyone who you think may need a little encouragement, or a "pep talk". 

Have a great day!

~ Angela Gentile

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Mila's Daydreams

Thanks to my friend Kirsten for sharing an email with me.  It was about a baby whose mom (Adele Enersen) makes up little scenes of her "daydreams" while she is sleeping.  It's really cute and it's worth a look if you like creativity, babies and cuteness!

To see a slideshow of Mila's Daydreams, click on the arrow below, or go to this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoQVa86EvPA&feature=player_embedded



You can check out Mila's Daydreams blog at http://milasdaydreams.blogspot.com/ for more information.


Have a wonderful day!

~ Angela Gentile

Friday, February 4, 2011

Don't Quit - Poem for Inspiration

Don't Quit is based on a famous poem which was written many years ago. The author of this poem is unknown. Sadly, in recent years a number of people have claimed ownership of the poem and some have even claimed to have written it themselves!  I find this poem very inspiring.

Here is the original poem in its entirety:


The Don't Quit Poem 

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest, if you must, but don't you quit. 

Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won had he stuck it out;
Don't give up though the pace seems slow--
You may succeed with another blow. 

Often the goal is nearer than,
It seems to a faint and faltering man,
Often the struggler has given up,
When he might have captured the victor's cup,
And he learned too late when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown. 

Success is failure turned inside out--
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far,
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit--
It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.

            - Author unknown


Have a great day and never quit!

~ Angela Gentile

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Beautiful - Music Video


I saw Christina Aguilera in the movie theatre, in the show, Burlesque.  She is an incredible singer and her talent is unmatched.  Below, is a video from a few years back of her singing her song, Beautiful (2004).    It is a song about acceptance.  This live version is done very well, and I enjoyed it. 

NOTE:  The Official Music Video contains material not appropriate for this site, so if you wanted to check it out, you can search  YouTube.com, "Christina Aguilera Beautiful Official Music Video".



You can also see the music video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-USUDzycRvM&feature=related 

You can see the Burlesque trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2r_8l1c2nQ.  I give it a thumbs up!

Have a beautiful day!

~ Angela Gentile

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Stuck Like Glue - Music Video


What a great, catchy song about "How to Stalk a Guy"!  This is an upbeat, fun song that I hope you will enjoy too.  The song, Stuck Like Glue, is by Sugarland.  It's been described as "oddball" and "interesting".  It's a popified country song that has hit the Billboard Top 100.  Check it out here by clicking on the arrow below.



You can also see the video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iDPw_qjhtM

To get more information on Sugarland or the song, Stuck Like Glue, go to these links: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuck_Like_Glue and  http://sugarlandmusic.com/.

Have an awesome day!

~ Angela Gentile

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Rhythm of Love - Music Video


Who doesn't like beach-parties, water balloons and sparklers!

Kicking off February - Heart Month - with a fun, upbeat song.  I was listening to the radio the other day and the Plain White T's (Plain White T's - Official Website) were singing the song, Rhythm of Love.  It's an upbeat song about a guy spending one night with his love interest.  I looked up the video on YouTube.com, and it is a fun video.  Can't help but feel great when you watch this.  The music has a gentle, romantic, upbeat feel, and the "island-y scratch guitar" is a great simple sound.  You can check out the music video, Rhythm of Love, here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWiwuiT58Yc or click on the arrow below.



You can find out more about the song, at Rhythm of Love - Wikipedia Page.

Have a great day!

~ Angela Gentile