Gaming Den

Hey, Hey, Hey, Everybody,
Welcome to the Gaming Den

Something I have been doing a lot this semester, besides studying for exams, is playing a game called Dungeons and Dragons with all of my friends. Currently in its 5th edition this D&D is a tabletop role playing game where you can create your own character, like an Orcish warrior or a Dragon-Born Bard, and play as that character in either a pre-made adventure or one that the Dungeon Master created. There are a series of rule books and possibly other resources that help guide you in creating your character and to help the Dungeon Master create an adventure for everybody. The Dungeon Master is the creator of the adventure and the ultimate ruler of the mechanics, typically the players might want to do something that is not explicitly stated in the books and the Dungeon Master would have to come up with some way to say if you can or can't do something, like bending a piece of metal into the shape of a hook.

Source: Wizard of the Coast

The adventure that ultimately unfolds is based solely on your decisions and the willingness of the Dungeon Master to adapt. But no matter what, the purpose of all of the rule books to create the characters and adventure, is to ultimately have fun and if that is not happening then that is not a campaign to be a part of or the group might not be the right one.

Tune in Thursday's 9 to 10 for some Video game music by TheRavanator on WNJR 91.7fm

Artist Spotlight: Rihanna

 

This particular artist does not need an artist spotlight as she is already developed and receives recognition no matter what she does. However, I think it is important to acknowledge good music when I hear it. Although, I'm a little late (ok, more than a little), Rihanna's ANTI album has to be one of the best records that I have heard this semester. A perfect album about love done in a original manner. Her beats will make you dance, cry, smile, and sometimes cringe (in the best way possible of course). She represents women being strong as some of her songs declare that the man needs her and not the other way around. She even tells him that he has to do better in Track 03 Kiss it Better. Make sure you tune into WNJR Radio in the upcoming weeks to hear some of Rih's album on 91.7FM.

Tune Thursday: Gwen Stefani

Happy Thursday Everyone! There's no better way to wrap your week up with a new hit from one of the most amazing female artist out there, Gwen Stefani! Introducing her new album "This Is What The Truth Feels Like" sparks a new era of music that truly represents who she really is. Finishing up her third album not only makes her an icon, but also a legend after creating her first solo album in ten years! We saw the come back of Justin Timberlake, but now it's Gwen's turn! Enjoy this amazing hit from her new album and tune into WNJR Radio 91.7FM everyday!
 

Artist Spotlight: Miike Snow

 

Miike Snow is a Swedish Electronica band consisting of producing team Christian Karlsson and Pontus Winnberg and singer Andrew Wyatt.  Miike Snow has an innovative style and they have been blending the pop genre with electronica for years.  The group has recently released their third album titled "iii" which has songs like "Heart is Full" and the hit song "Genghis Khan." The band has described "iii" as an expansion of what they have produced before.  Miike Snow is touring this summer and will be at numerous music festivals including Hangout Music Festival and Lollapalooza.  Also if you are close to the Pittsburgh area then be sure to check Miike Snow out when they come to Mr. Smalls Theatre later in May!  Remember to tune in on Monday nights at 10PM to Bad Dance Moves to hear Miike Snow and more similar artists!

Martina McBride is Back!

After years of not recording any country albums, Martina McBride recently released Reckless. This new album set her back into her country roots. Martina is definitely one of the many great voices in the country genre and we cannot be any more excited to know that she is back. Her talent allowed her to perform with George Strait in his last concert ever during his Cowboy Rides Away Tour in Arlington, Texas. Martina says that after 5 years she now has a "fresh perspective" of the way she wants her music to be. Make sure to tune into Mockingbird Country every Friday at 1:00PM with WNJR 91.7FM.

Artist Spotlight: Guante

 

Guante

Kyle Tran Myhre, otherwise known as Guante. Guante is an underground hip hop artist, National slam poet Champion, and an activist. It is so refreshing to finally have an artist that is conscious of the injustice in America, that is not even the best part. Guante is a white male, now you're probably wondering why is that important? Guante speaking about white supremacy from the perspective of the most privileged species in America, makes the most impact to the white race. If it were another black person speaking about white supremacy it would not be as receptive to the majority. Guante has great spoken word poem about the term white supremacy. If you want to be awaken I recommend you listen to it. James Baldwin once said to be black and conscious in America is to always be in state of rage.   

  

New Music Monday: Beyoncé, The Strumbellas, & More

Hi everybody! It's new music Monday - and possibly one of the biggest new music Mondays in quite some time, thanks to the Queen Bey herself. Last night at midnight, Beyoncé's new visual album "Lemonade" was released for purchase on iTunes after being available exclusively on Tidal for a short time. The album contains several tracks produced by Diplo, songs co-written by Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend, features from Jack White, The Weeknd, Kendrick Lamar, and James Blake, and a whole lot of suspicion... Rumors have been circulating about whether or not the album is announcing Bey's split from rapper husband Jay-Z. Not to mention, Beyoncé's first country song is on the album as well, titled "Daddy Lessons." Because "Lemonade" is a visual album, each track is accompanied by a video - each shot in New Orleans, following suit from Bey's earlier release, "Formation." The album is available now on iTunes, and hopefully on Apple Music in the near future! 

The Strumbellas are a six-piece alternative/indie band from Canada who released their third studio album, "Hope," on April 22nd. "Spirits," the first single off "Hope" was released a while ago, and I became a fan instantly - I definitely recommend The Strumbellas to fans of Mumford & Sons, The Lumineers, or the Cold War Kids.

Lastly, a few great new singles were released this weekend - check out "7" by Catfish & the Bottlemen and "Go Flex" by Post Malone. Unfortunately Jess and I won't be on air tonight, but tune in tomorrow night at 8 PM to hear our girl Liz play some 90s throwbacks!

Black Blessings- Prince

Hello everyone, I'm sorry about not posting yesterday, but today's Black Blessing is Prince. After Prince's passing yesterday, I think it'd only be appropriate to make a post about thelegend.

 Prince Rogers Nelson was a singer-songwriter, actor, and music producer. He was known for classics, such as Purple Rain and When Doves Cry. To learn more about Prince and his full life go here. Below is Prince's performance of Purple Rain at the Super Bowl Halftime Show in 2007.

Artist Spotlight: Thomas Mac

 

Hey guys! Sorry I didn't post last week (School has been kicking my butt lately. But hey! At least we are almost done!) This artist I have already mentioned in the past. However, he has recently dropped some new music that I believe has to get some type of recognition. Thomas Mac is an R&B artist from Chicago, Illinois. His swag is one of a Hip-Hop artist but Mac seems to surprise listeners with his silky smooth vocals. There is no age requirement for Mac's music as he appeals to audiences of different dynamics. His topics range from love to the battles one encounters through out his or her's life. You can listen to Thomas Mac on WNJR Radio for listeners on 91.7FM.

Gaming Den

Hey, Hey, Hey, Everybody
Welcome to the Gaming Den

Today I would like to talk about one of the biggest threats in the Halo Universe and that is the Flood. In this universe they are a form of parasite that feeds off of lifeforms with sufficient biomass to survive and thrive, lets say the size of a cat and larger. The Flood will then assimilate this organism into their collective intelligence and begin to grow larger in bodies and mind. The Flood do not have much intelligence on their own and so they gather their prey but just purely outnumbering them. Once the Flood grows to a certain amount they begin build/grow a single being for their central intelligence called a Gravemind, capable of critical thinking, which is very powerful for group organization.

Source: Halo Wikia

The Flood make many cultural references in society today. For one they act very much like what we think of as Zombies, just with a greater sense of purpose rather than self preservation. Also the Flood also seems to be a biblical reference to the Great Flood which would have destroyed everything except for Noah's Ark which attempted to save many of the organisms in space.


Tune in Thursday's 9 to 10 for some Video game music by TheRavanator on WNJR 91.7fm

Love Letters

It has been almost 20 years since Tupac Shakur's tragic death. Just recently a love letter written by no other than Tupac himself was found. The letter is now on sale for $35,000. Its worth comes from the age of the letter. Known as one of the earliest pieces of writing, it is dedicated to Beethoven who we can predict was a really close friend of his. Tupac calls himself an "over emotional" person which is not typical to read from a rapper that has always been seen as someone who was affiliated with gang violence. The Moments in Time online page has this historic piece of art. Make sure to tune into WNJR Sundays from 12:00AM to 5:00AM for a variety of Hip Hop music.

Artist Spotlight: Flume

 

Flume is  an Australian electronic music producer who has become rather well known in the genre over the past few years.  Flume released his first self-titled album in 2012 and has recently announced that a new album title "Skin" will be released in late May of 2016!  Flume has remixed many artists from Lorde to Arcade Fire, and has also produced many hits himself like "Holdin On" and "Sleepless." Flume has released a few songs off of his new album, "Never Be Like You" and "Smoke and Retribution," and based off of these releases, I would say it is safe to assume that Flume's new album will not disappoint. If you want to hear some of these releases or other artists similar to Flume then be sure to tune in on Monday nights at 10PM to Bad Dance Moves on WNJR!

Tune Tuesday: Kalin and Myles

Happy Thursday Everyone! I hope you're all having an amazing week and to make things even better here is a song from one of my favorite artists Kalin and Myles. The duo opened up at Pittsburgh for Timeflies Tuesday and guess who was there? I was! It was such an amazing performance and if you didn't know the concert was for Timeflies Tuesday then you would have thought Kalin and Myles were the main performers. The energy they brought to the crowd was an unforgettable experience for me and although you all were not there with me, hopefully this song can make you feel like you were. I hope you all enjoy this amazing song by the one and the only Kalin and Myles!

TIS' THE SEASON... Festival Season, That Is!

It's a beautiful day here in Washington, PA, which obviously means its a great day for some fun electronic music!  Personally, my SoundCloud likes are filled to the brim with hour-long live sets from music festivals such as last month's Ultra Music Festival in Miami, FL and last weekend's Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, CA.  My current favorite is Louis the Child's set from Coachella, which you can find here: https://soundcloud.com/jwaang/louis-the-child-coachella-2016

I don't know about you, but in the winter months I'm constantly checking festival websites and social media accounts for lineup announcements.  Last year, I attended my first two-day festival: Moonrise Festival in Baltimore, MD.  I saw some of my favorite EDM artsists such as LOUDPVCK, What So Not, and (my favorite by far) Dillon Francis.  This year, I am lucky enough to be attending Electric Daisy Carnival in Las Vegas (pictured above - yes really) AND Lollapalooza in Chicago!  However, the point of this blog entry is not to brag about how incredible my summer is about to be - its to remind anyone who may be reading this that spending your hard earned money on music festivals isn't frivolous or wasteful.  Paying to attend festivals like these is paying for an incredible experience and amazing memories.  I believe that spending money on experiences is a lot more meaningful than buying material things, and that's why I encourage anyone who might be on the fence about attending a festival this summer to bite the bullet, spend the money, and have the time of their life for a few days.

Tune in to WNJR Monday nights at 10 PM to hear me freak out about all the incredible artists I'll be seeing this summer at EDCLV and Lolla and make fun of Jess.

Artist Spotlight: Ariana Grande

 

Ariana Grande 

 If it is one thing Ariana Grande has managed to do, it is enter America's heart. We have literally watched her grow up on screen. Her transition from acting on Nickelodeon to entering into the music industry, had to be one of the best decision in history. She definitely has the potential to become a legend her voice resembles Mariah Carey and even Whitney. Yes, I said Whitney. Ariana has proven that she has what it takes to last in this industry. She has raw talent. Her new album "Dangerous Woman"will be climbing the charts if it hasn't already. She has matured beautifully and is singing like her life depends on it. If you want your life changed listen to "Dangerous Woman" and "Be Alright".

Gaming Den

Hey, Hey, Hey, Everybody,
Welcome to the Gaming Den

This week I wanted to talk about one of the most adorable, and I say that loosely, characters in Halo and they are the Unggoy, or as the Humans called them, Grunts. Being very short and seeming to possess little intelligence, these creatures were one of the later ones to join the Covenant. Because of that they were shuttled to the bottom of the rankings, used as cannon fodder and as slaves for the Covenant and it wasn't until one of the many Unggoy rebellions that they received a little higher status as part of the forces in the Covenant Military.

Source: Halo Wikia

In battle with the Humans, the Grunts are not the best with tactics, strength, or accuracy, but because of the Unggoy reproductive habits they are easily able to overrun the Human forces by just sheer number. Also all of the Unggoy are capable of higher intelligence but because of the devastation to their home world centuries ago, due to industrialization, and the general view of Unggoy as lower creatures in the Covenant kept their intelligence limited. But, on a good note the acceptance into the Covenant ensured their survival as a species as it provided them with food for their families back at home and doubling their life span.

Tune in Thursday's 9 to 10 for some Video game music by TheRavanator on WNJR 91.7fm

Black Blessings- Stevie Wonder

Hello beautiful people! I hope you're having a fantastic Thursday. Today is a good day for a Black Blessing, so put your hands together for Stevie Wonder!

Stevie Wonder is a former child prodigy known for his exemplary vocal skill and playing the harmonica and the piano. He was born blind in Michigan and began his music career at the amazing age of 12, recording his first hit single at the age of 13. To learn more about Stevie visit here and tune into WNJR 91.7FM or here to catch a couple tracks from Mr. Wonder. Below is a video of Isn't She Lovely.

Artist Spotlight: Hermitude

Hermitude is an Australian electronic, hip hop duo, consisting of members Luke Dubber and Angus Stuart, who recently made waves in the electronic music category.  Hermitude recently released their album "Dark Night Sweet Light" which featured hits like "The Buzz" and "Midnight Terrain."  Over the course of 12 years, they have released 5 albums, all consisting of unique and diverse sounds.  The duo are currently on a massive international tour that covers headline shows in the US, and their first headline tour in Europe. If you are interested in listening to Hermitude and other artists like them, then be sure to tune in on Monday nights at 10PM to Bad Dance Moves.

Speaking Out

Times are clearly changing, especially within the music industry. On Monday activists gathered in Nashville, Tennessee to discuss the laws being proposed by the state. As seen on the picture, actor Chris Carmack is taking his own stand against the proposed laws. He is not the only one though, famous country singer Bruce Springsteen took a stand by cancelling his concert. Other country artists like Ty Herdon and Chely Wright have also spoke out against the proposed laws. It is interesting to see how a very conservatively viewed genre like country can take a stand that no one expects. For classic country music tune into Mockingbird Country on Friday from 1:00PM to 2:00PM.

New Music Monday (On Tuesday)

Hi all! This week, I have a few new singles to share with you as well as my thoughts on Weezer's new album. First of all, Galantis released a new single called "No Money." The song is exactly what you would expect from Galantis - fun, upbeat, and catchy.  Listen to the songs on their SoundCloud here: https://soundcloud.com/wearegalantis/no-money-ultra-edit-126-bpm-1

The Chainsmokers, another one of my favorite DJ duos, released a new single as well! "Inside Out" featuring Charlee is a little bit slower than most of The Chainsmoker's songs, but would still sound absolutely incredible live thanks to an upbeat drop in an otherwise calm song. Listen to The Chainsmoker's new track here: https://soundcloud.com/thechainsmokers/inside-out-ft-charlee

Lastly, I hope you all have had the chance to listen to Weezer's new white album since its release on April 1st. I personally love the album, however, I thought the pre-released singles were the best on the whole record.  My favorite song released on April 1st is titled "Jacked Up."  The track has a nostalgic, old-Weezer vide to it, but also shows how much the band has changed in the past 20 years. I highly reccommend giving "Jacked Up" a listen.  Tune into Bad Dance Moves next Monday at 10 PM to hear more!

Artist Spotlight: Brandy

Brandy has been our lives since she was a child. We know from "Moesha" to "Double Platinum" (with Diana Ross) and of course "Cinderella," the first black princess that is normally portrayed by a white princess. Now this is just a short snippet of her earlier acting career, we haven't indulged her singing career. Side note, Brandy was the first album I bought out of the store, I remember being so elated because her voice is like no other, her approach to music is authentic and real. You can tell just by her music that music is her livelihood. "Sittin Up in My Room" replayed in house all day but there might be a new song on replay "Begging and Pleading." This song was such an empowerment for Brandy you can tell by they was she says "Good God Alighty!" Its about woman who has gotten her heart stomped on by her lover and tells hims that if he leaves he can keep his last name, later in the song she feels regret and says forgive me. The pain in her voice is real which is why she will never fade.  

Tune Tuesday: Rixton

 

Happy Tuesday! Tune Tuesday is one of the best days of the week because not only can you experience amazing cover songs by your favorite artist, but you can also hear artist that you've never heard before. Introducing Rixton this week doing an acoustic cover to their own song "Me and My Broken Heart."Just when we thought their hit single couldn't get any better, they proved us all wrong. Without anymore delay, here is the one and the only Rixton and don't forget to tune in on Fridays to here my show "March Badness."

Artist Spotlight: Bryson Tiller (and The Weeknd?)

Source: Fuse

This next artist has yet to make it on the WNJR air, but believe me I am working on it. Bryson Tiller has been making ripples in the R&B/Hip-Hop ocean for some time. His debut studio album T R A P S O U L contains songs with a variety of subjects. Tiller speaks on his struggles as a new artists and losing the love of his life due to his own infidelity. He began receiving recognition once his hit single "Don't"started to become popular throughout the web. Yet his recognition does not stop at his fans. The Weeknd showed his support by remixing  one of Tiller's song "Rambo"from T R A P S O U L. This weekend the pair performed the remix for the first time live in Berlin. It doesn't get any better. Two innovative artists coming together to make new stepping stones in music. Make sure you listen to WNJR Radio 91.7FM to hear both artists on the air!

Gaming Den

Hey, Hey, Hey, Everybody,
Welcome to the Gaming Den

This week I wanted to talk about the Sangheili, who are a part of the Covenant in the Halo Series. The Covenant, being the general antagonist to the series, is a group of multiple species trying to achieve one goal of salvation, as lead by the prophets or the San 'Shyuum. The Sangheili, from the planet Sangheilios, are a proud race, living in a feudal society where not only might, but also mind could determine the current ruling party in the area. They joined the covenant after a little squable with the San 'Shyuum and thus became the backbone of the Covenant army.

Source: Halo Wikia

After some time fighting in the Covenant, the Sangheili learned of the corruption and the fact that the Great Journey is just a path to suicide. Therefore, Some of the Sangheili defected from the Covenant and raised up arms with the Humans, of whom they fought against for a while as well, in order to save their homeworld and their race.

Tune in Thursday's 9 to 10 for some Video game music by TheRavanator on WNJR 91.7fm

Remembering Merle Haggard

Country music legend Merle Haggard unfortunately passed away this Wednesday and his death could not be any more tragic. The day of his death also marked his 79th birthday. Sources say he died from pneumonia complications in his home located in Northern California. His music will forever remain. Marking more than three dozen hits from the 1960s until the early 2000s, he will be remembered. May he rest in peace. Make sure to tune into Mockingbird country next Friday at 1:00PM to listen to one of his most popular songs that he left with us.

Artist Spotlight: Alina Baraz

 

Alina Baraz is a 21-year-old singer-songwriter from Cleveland, Ohio, who is now living in LA and is becoming a big name in the electronic genre.  In her most recent release Alina collaborated with Galimatias to create the "Urban Flora EP."  This was the first I had heard of both artists, and their unique combination of vocals and beats created a seamless blend of their talents.  Alina's voice is rather sensual and seductive, and combined with Galimatias's chill atmosphere, it is easy to see how songs like "Fantasy" and "Can I" capture their audiences attention.  If you are interested in hearing this wonderful combo then be sure to check out the video of "Fantasy" below.  Also be sure to tune in on Monday nights at 10 to WNJR for Bad Dance Moves, where you will be able to hear more from Alina Baraz and artists similar to her!

Black Blessings- J. Cole

Hello, hello, hello! It's Thursday everyone, that means it's time for a Black Blessing! Put your hands together for today's guest, J. Cole.

J. Cole, born Jermaine Lamarr Cole, is an award-winning rapper and record producer famous for his bold lyrics and amazing beats. His newest album, 2014 Forest Hills Drive, is a masterpiece that combines the two and is a clear indication that J. Cole's artistic genius has no expiration anytime soon and deserves all the recognition in the world! To learn more visit his website here.  In the meantime, come check out wnjr.org or 91.7FM to hear some of his music and below is a single from his newest album.

Artist Spotlight: Andra Day

 

Andra Day 

Cassandra Monique aka Andra Day, is an American soul and soul, R&B, jazz and blues. Her new song Rise Up is an all around inspiration song. Its about having to go through every day  life struggles yet still overcoming. Her voice is angelic and nostalgic. It reminds me of Sam Cook's voice-timeless. Her lyrics are words to live by. Her style is very neo-centric, her head wrap resembles that of Erykah Badu's and her songs echo similar soul patterns in her music also.   And I'll rise up 

I'll rise like the day
I'll rise up
I'll rise unafraid
I'll rise up
And I'll do it a thousand times again
And I'll rise up  

Artist Spotlight: Jazmine Sullivan

Source: BET

Hey all! Hope you had an amazing spring break, I know I did. I decided to an artist spotlight on a R&B singer who is already pretty developed as an artist. But it doesn't mean she does not deserve some recognition! Right? Right! Jazmine Sullivan everyone!! This beautiful power house came onto the scene in 2008 when she was only 20 years old (how amazing is that?!). She took R&B by a storm with her Caribbean yet soulful sound. She produced hits such as "Need U Bad" and "Bust Your Windows." However, her career only continued to flourish. She released an album in 2015 entitled Reality Show and she plans on releasing another in 2017. But no one worry, because when it drops WNJR will have it. Until then, tune into WNJR Radio 91.7FM to hear some of Jazmine Sullivan's classics.

Gaming Den

Hey, Hey, Hey Everybody,
Welcome to the Gaming Den

Another character in the Halo series, who is integral to the entire plot, is the AI, Cortana. No not the new-fangled version of Siri made by Microsoft, Cortana in the Halo series is John's sidekick helping the suit move and do thousands of other calculations to help him out. Created from DNA, Cortana is a very powerful AI, actually handpicking John as her partner based solely because he was lucky.

Soure: WikiMedia

Cortana, has helped John on numerous missions, sometimes concerning the insurrection that was going on. Or she would help guide a Battle cruiser through slipspace, which is essentially a man-made wormhole. She even helped John blow up a ring world, lo' and behold called Halo, because of an infestation of flood came out and and started ravaging everything in their sight.

Tune in Thursday's 9 to 10 for some Video game music by TheRavanator on WNJR 91.7fm

WNJR Provides Music for Chili Cook-Off

               "Sometimes superheros reside in the heart's of small children battling big battles"

    WNJR is honored to be DJ-ing an event in honor of such a heart-warming, optimistic child like Jayme Flock. The Chili Cook-Off is set to begin around 11 a.m. and proceed until around 3. For only $5 you can purchase 3 tickets! Double that amount and get 8 tickets !! It's cheap, there will be amazing food, and most importantly, benefits will go to the family of Jayme to assist in medical expenses, like chemotherapy. Also, WNJR is known to show up and show out, so of course there will be awesome music !

The event is open to everyone; so tell your kids, tell your wife ! [And everyone else you know :]

Black Blessings- Abel Tesfaye

Hello beautiful people! I hope you're all excited that today is Friday, I know I am. Today's black blessing is a famous singer and heartthrob, Abel Tesfaye. For those who don't know who that is you may recognize him by his stage name, The Weeknd.

Abel is a Canadian singer and songwriter, who became famous when he anonymously uploaded his songs to YouTube under the name The Weeknd. To know more about his music career and his life read this interview. Below is also a track of his song Wicked Games. If you like it, make sure to tune into 91.7FM or here to listen to more of his music!