CORD MUSIC MAGAZINE January 2014

CORD

Jan 2014

MICHAEL JACKSON King of Pop Dance

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Features

CONTENTS Pop Dance - 11 Everly Brothers - 29

Thank You World - 38

Sections 5 Cord Hits/ 31 Cord Artists / 35 Cord Images/ 40 Album Reviews/ 42 Music+Current/ 43 Haikus/ 44 Comics/ 48 Good Laugh/ 50 Kim & El/ 50 Mr Jeydi’s Witdom/ 51 Film Reviews

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From the Editor Some people would say that they don’t know how to dance failing to realize that deep inside they have the ability, even if it may not be graceful or in perfect timing.

For each of us is gifted with the beat of life -- the heart.

Place your hand on your breast and feel the pumping of the heart, it never skips. Unknowingly, that beat comes in harmony with the rest of humanity. The collective beat of our hearts binds us all together.

In this issue of CORD, we focus on “Pop Dance”, short for “Popular Dance”. As there is pop music, so is there pop dance. In the past, it took sometime before a certain dance style could reach universal appeal. Social media has changed that, for it is easy for people to learn the moves of say Beyonce or Psy in the confines of the home. The phenomenon called “Flash Mob” is proof of the power of social media in popularizing a dance craze.

We have an article “Pop Dance: Then and Now” that attempts to trace its history and its impact in today’s culture. A popular section of CORD is the Top 5 List, and we’ve got three this time: Pop Dance Songs, Pop Dance Artists and Pop Dance Movies.

CORD also took time to cover GigAlive: THANK YOU NEW ZEALAND, an event that Filipinos organized to show their gratitude to New Zealand and its people for their help to the victims in one of the most devastating typhoons of the century, Typhoon Yolanda/Haiyan.

We are certain that Filipinos in other parts of the world, including the Philippines have done their share in saying “Thank You”.

Finally, we are thankful to our supporters who have found time not just to read CORD, but shared this as well to others. Please continue doing so. Also, if you know of indie artists in your area (anywhere in the world) that you believe deserves exposure, tell us and we will do our part.

Enjoy!

MEL B LIBRE Editor in Chief

Editor in Chief: Mel Libre Creative Director: Mel Elijan Libre Contributors: Tyke Villalonga, Gilfrancis Maningo, Andrew Bignal, Melodi Jam 4

CORD HITS

SPEAK LIFE Tobymac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rK6O0YtBRY D A Some days, life feels perfect.

E F#m Other days it just aint workin.

D A The good, the bad, the right, the wrong E F#m And everything in between.

Watch them come alive as soon as you speak hope, A You speak love, you speak...

E You speak Life,(oh oh oh oh oh oh) F#m You speak Life. (oh oh oh oh oh oh)

A E It’s crazy, amazing F#m We can turn a heart with the words we say.

A Mountains crumble with every syllable.

E Hope can live or die

D A Some days the tongue gets twisted; E F#m Other days my thoughts just fall apart.

D A

D A So speak Life, speak Life.

E F#m To the deadest darkest night.

D A Speak life, speak Life.

E F#m When the sun won’t shine and you don’t know why.

D A Look into the eyes of the brokenhearted; D

I do, I don’t, I will, I won’t, E F#m It’s like I’m drowning in the deep.

A E Well it crazy to imagine, F#m Words from our lips as the arms of compassion, A Mountains crumble with every syllable.

E Hope can live or die.

D A So speak Life, speak Life.

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E F#m To the deadest darkest night.

D A Speak life, speak Life.

E F#m When the sun wont shine and you don’t know why.

D A Look into the eyes of the brokenhearted; D Watch them come alive as soon as you speak hope, A You speak love, you speak...

E You speak Life,(oh oh oh oh oh oh) F#m You speak Life. (oh oh oh oh oh oh) A Lift your head a little higher, F#m A Spread the love like fire, Hope will fall like rain, F#m A When you speak life with the words you say.

F#m Raise your thoughts a little higher, Use your words to inspire, A Joy will fall like rain, D When you speak life with the things you say.

E F#m To the deadest darkest night.

D A Speak life, speak Life.

E F#m When the sun wont shine and you don’t know why.

D A Look into the eyes of the brokenhearted; D Watch them come alive as soon as you speak hope, A You speak love, you speak...

E You speak Life,(oh oh oh oh oh oh) F#m You speak Life. (oh oh oh oh oh oh) E You speak Life,(oh oh oh oh oh oh) F#m You speak Life. (oh oh oh oh oh oh) D A Some days life feels perfect.

LOVE ALONE IS WORTH THE FIGHT Switchfoot

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rk9Pj3ID0UE

A Lift your head a little higher, F#m A Spread the love like fire, Hope will fall like rain, F#m A When you speak life with the words you say.

Intro: G,C

D A So speak Life, speak Life.

G I’m trying to find where my place is

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I’m looking for my own oasis C So close I can taste this

Love alone is worth the fight C Wo oh oh

The fear that love alone erases G So I’m back to the basics

Verse 3: G We’re only here for a season

I figure it’s time I face this C Time to take my own advice G Love alone is worth the fight C Love alone is worth the fight

I’m looking for the rhyme and reason C Why you’re born, why you’re leaving

Verse 2: G And I never thought it’d come to this

Why you’re fighting it and getting it even C Let’s go headed down the open road unknown

But it seems like I’m finally feeling numb to this C The funny thing about a name is

Pre-Chorus: Em D And we find what we’re made of C Through the open door Em D Is it fear you’re afraid of?

C What are you waiting for?

You forget what the reason you were playing the game is G And it’s all an illusion A 21st century institution C So I’m headed down the open road unknown Pre-Chorus: Em D And we find what we’re made of C Through the open door Em D Is it fear you’re afraid of?

C What are you waiting for?

Chorus:

G Love alone is worth the fight C Wo oh oh G

What you fear and what you believe in G Why you’re living and breathing

Chorus:

G Love alone is worth the fight C Wo oh oh G Love alone is worth the fight C Wo oh oh Yeah, yeah, yeah G Em D D C Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! x2 Tag: Em D Here we are, here we go C Where the road is our own Em D

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Hear it calling you home C Here we are, here we go!

G Love alone is worth the fight C Love alone is worth the fight G Love alone is worth the fight C Love alone is worth the fight G (let ring) Love alone is worth the fight

JUST SAY JESUS 7eventh Time Down

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rk9Pj3ID0UE

Intro: F# F#sus F# Verse 1: F# F#sus Life gets tough, and times get hard F# F#sus C#2 And it’s hard to find the truth in all the lies B2 If you’re tired of wondering why C# Your heart isn’t healing And nothing feels like home B2 F# Cause you’re lost and alone just screaming at the sky Chorus: F#

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B

When you don’t know what to say F# Just say Jesus B There is power in the name Ebm The name of Jesus C#/F If the words won’t come B Cause you’re to afraid to pray F# F#sus Just say Jesus (Just say Jesus) Verse 2: F# F#sus Whisper it now, or shout it out F# F#sus C#2 However it comes out, He hears your cry B C# Out of nowhere He will come, you got to believe it He will rescue you B F# Just call out to the Way, The Truth, The Light Chorus: F# B When you don’t know what to say F# Just say Jesus B There is power in the name Ebm The name of Jesus C#/F If the words won’t come B Cause you’re to afraid to pray Ebm C#/F B/F# There is just one name Ebm C#/F B Strong enough to save Ebm C#/F B/F# There is just one name Ebm C#/F B There is just one name F# Jesus

Interlude: F# B F# F# B When you don’t know what to say F# Just say Jesus B There’s still power in the name Ebm The name of Jesus C#/F If the words won’t come B Cause you’re to afraid to pray Ebm C#/F If the words won’t come B And you don’t know what to say F# Just say Jesus

BEAUTIFUL DAY Jamie Grace

https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=uPy0ctqMwE0

D A Wake up and smile cause it’s been awhile Em G It’s been like a whole day since I stopped so You could hold me D A This child awaits, strong in the faith Em G Lord you are the refuge that I can’t wait to get to

D ‘Cause I can’t let a day go A Em Can’t let a day go by G Without thanking you for the joy that you bring to my life D A Em And ooh there’s something ‘bout the way Your sun shines on my face G D It’s a love so true, I could never get enough of You A Em This feeling can’t be wrong, I’m about to get my worship on G Take me away, It’s a beautiful day D-A-Em-G D A When trouble seems to rain on my dreams Em G It’s not a big, not a big deal, Let it wash all the bugs off my windshield D A ‘Cause You’re showing me in You I’m free Em G And You’re still the refuge that I’ve just got to get to D So I won’t let a day go A Em Won’t let a day go by G So put the drop-top down, turn it up, I’m ready to fly D A Em And ooh there’s something ‘bout the way Your sun shines on my face G D It’s a love so true, I could never get enough of You A Em This feeling can’t be wrong, I’m about to get my worship on

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G Take me away, It’s a beautiful day

Intro: G/B C G D

D-A-Em-G

Verse 1: G/B C I’m coming back to the start G D Where You found me G/B C I’m coming back to Your heart G D Now I surrender Pre-Chorus: Am Em Take me G C This is all I can bring

D A I’ve got no need to worry, I’ve got no room for doubt Em G No matter what’s coming at me, You’ll always be the beautiful I sing about D A There ain’t no limitations to Your amazing grace Em G Your amazing grace A Em G And there’s something ‘bout the way Your love shines on my face D Oh no I could never get enough of You A Em This feeling can’t be wrong, I’m about to get my worship on G Em I’m gonna sing a brand new song, Yeah I’m about to get my worship on G Take me away on this beautiful day

GOD’S GREAT DANCE FLOOR Chris Tomlin

https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=lX5139rmgGw

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Verse 2: I’m coming back to the start Our God is freedom And here we feel Your heart Your heartbeat for us Chorus: G/B C You never stop loving us G D No matter how far we run G/B C You never give up on us G D All the heavens shout G/B C G D Let the future begin G/B C G D Let the future begin Bridge: G/B C I feel alive, I come alive G D I am alive, On God’s great dance floor

POP DANCE: Then and Now Pop Dance is usually described as “dance crazes” since it reaches mass appeal at a certain point then eventually fades away. Like pop music, it could become a reference to a period or a generation.

Every culture has a way of expressing their beliefs, values or recreation through dances, and in fact some define an ethnicity or a nation, as folk dances. Pop Dance, on the other hand, is universal.

With the advent of radio, television and internet, Pop Dance has taken a global spread that at times can come from uncharted entertainment territories (think South Korea’s K-pop) and from unknown artists (remember Los del Rio of “Macarena” fame?)

From the 30s, movies played a role in Pop Dance by introducing Charleston, Tango and Foxtrot, among others, worldwide. After World War II, the newfound freedom led to the rock ‘n roll revolution producing cultural icons like James Dean and Elvis Presley and Pop Dance like Boogie Woogie, The Bop, The Stroll, Swing and The Madison. Pop Dance was one of the entry points for The Beatles in conquering fans through “Twist and Shout”, inspired by Chubby Checker’s smash hit “The Twist”. The popularity of “The Twist” brought about other Pop Dance styles including The Mashed Potato, The Watusi, The Monkey, the Dog and the Frug.

But nobody saw it coming as Pop Dance redefined social dancing with Disco, a movement that shut rock music out, involved strong bass lines and synthesizer-driven music, and opened up stylish disco clubs. Vince Aletti of Rolling Stone magazine first wrote about disco in September 1973, but as early as 1971 the upbeat sound had started with Isaac Hayes (Theme for Shaft) , Barry White (Love’s Theme) and Van McCoy (The Hustle) and hits from The Hues Corporation (Rock the Boat) and George McCrae (“Rock Your Baby”). Donna Summer reigned as queen, with many others in the field including KC & The Sunshine Band, The Village People, Chic and Gloria Gaynor.

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The Disco era reached its peak in 1977 when record producer Robert Stigwood released the film, ‘Saturday Night Fever’ starring John Travolta with the movie soundtrack prominently featuring The Bee Gees. The commercial success of disco music enticed mainstream artists to play catch up. These included Barbra Streisand (“No More Tears”), Rod Stewart (“Do Ya Think I’m Sexy”) and even George Harrison (“This Song”). The backlash on disco came about on July 12, 1979. An anti-disco protest in Chicago called “Disco Demolition Night” attacked disco for its decadent sub-culture and for the unimaginative and mechanical sound.

In the 80s, anyone associated with disco music was left out of the radio airplay. According to digital broadcaster Music Choice, the 1980s is the most favored music decade of the last 50 years. It must be because not a single music genre ruled rather everyone had a share in the music chart: new wave, glam rock, heavy metal, alternative rock, singer-songwriters, electronic music, hip hop, country and R ‘n B. MTV had contributed much to the 80s as Michael Jackson dominated the charts with his brand of R n’ B music and more importantly, his imaginative dance moves. Jackson’s music was infectious on the dance floor with Lionel Richie, Madonna and Whitney Houston at his back. The 80s also saw the emergence of Latin dance music back into the mainstream as salsa and merengue, and Gipsy Kings took their music into the international dance floor. But it was Lambada, dance music from Pará, Brazil, that charmed many.

The Prince of Pop maintained his stature through the 90s cemented in 1997 with “Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix” becoming the best-selling remix album of all time. Grunge (Nirvana and Pearl Jam) and electronica emerged during the decade, but the biggest story was country music as Garth Brooks led the march both in album sales and concert attendance. Other country musicians who took the front seats were Clint Black, Trisha Yearwood, Shania Twain, LeAnn Rimes and Dixie Chicks.

Noticing its impact, Time magazine devoted a cover story of the rise of the genre and its artists. Its biggest song, a Pop Dance, became the official line dancing anthem, “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus. And who

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would not remember, “Macarena”, a Spanish dance song by Los del Río? It ranked the “#1 Greatest One-Hit Wonder of all Time” by VH1 in 2002. Its other accolades include: No. 1 on Billboard’s All Time Latin Songs; Billboard’s No. 1 dance song; and one of six foreign language songs to hit No. 1 since 1955’s modern rock era began.

The 21st century could not do without dance music, now termed as “Dance-pop” that has all the elements of disco and given new genre names such as trance and house. Kylie Minogue borrowed heavily from the 80s sound, calling her music “Nu-disco” and producing two hit singles, “Spinning Around” (2000) and “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” (2001). Madonna went back to the roots of disco in “Confessions on a Dance Floor” (2005), while Britney Spears’ Blackout (2007) took Euro disco to the fore.

New faces - Beyonce, Rihanna, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry - have continued to be most influential into the 2010s. In 2012, You Tube produced a global superstar, Psy whose music video for “Gangnam Style” exceeded 1 billion views on YouTube. In 2013, disco found its way back into the charts through Daft Punk, Bruno Mars, Gotye, Avacii, Calvin Harris and Robin Thicke.

If only to prove that Pop Dance music is here to stay, we ask the question, “What song would close 2013 as number one in the United States Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs?” The answer: “MacArthur Park 2013” from the Queen of Disco, Donna Summer.

Pop Dance and its accompanying music live on.

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CORD TOP 5 POP DANCE SONGS #1

Billy Jean

Michael Jackscn The second single from the album Thriller (1982), “Billie Jean” established Michael Jackson as an international pop icon. This was the song he used in one of the most original dance pop choreography of all time, “Moonwalk”.

Capo: 2nd Fret* Intro: (n.C) (Drums) Em F#m/E, G/D F#m/E (x2) Verse 1: Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E She was more like a beauty queen, from a movie scene, Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Am7 I said; don’t mind, but what do you mean; I am the one?

Em F#m/E G/D Who will dance on the floor, in the round.

F#m/E Am7 (Em) She said; I am the one, who will dance on the floor, in the round.

Interlude: Em F#m/E, G/D F#m/E Verse 2:

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Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E She told me her name was Billie Jean, as she caused a scene.

Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Am7 Then every head turned, with eyes that dreamed of being the one, (Em) Who will dance on the floor, in the round.

Interlude: Em F#m/E, G/D F#m/E Bridge 1: C Em People always told me; be careful what you do; C Em And don’t go around breaking young girl’s hearts.

C Em And mother always told me; be careful of who you love; C B7 And be careful of what you do, ‘cos the lie becomes the truth.

Chorus 1: Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Billie Jean is not my lover; Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Am7 She’s just a girl who, claims that I am the one.

Em F#m/E, G/D But the kid is not my son.

F#m/E Am7 (Em) She says; I am the one, but the kid is not my son.

Interlude: Em F#m/E, G/D F#m/E Verse 3: Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E For forty days and forty nights, the law was on her side.

Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Am7 But who can stand, when she’s in demand, her schemes and plans?

Em F#m/E, G/D ‘Cos we danced on the floor, in the round F#m/E Am7 Em F#m/E So take my strong a-dvice; just remember to always think twice.

G/D F#m/E (Do think twice, do think twice).

Verse 3: Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E She told my baby we’d danced ‘till three, then she looked a me, Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Am7 Then showed a photo; my baby cried; his eyes looked like mine.

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Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Go on dance on the floor, in the round, baby.

Bridge 2: C Em People always told me; be careful what you do; C Em And don’t go around breaking young girl’s hearts.

C Em She came and stood right by me; then the smell of sweet perfume.

C B7 This happened much too soon; she called me to her room.

Chorus 2: Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Billie Jean is not my lover; Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Am7 She’s just a girl who, claims that I am the one.

Em F#m/E, G/D F#m/E But the kid is not my son.

Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Billie Jean is not my lover; Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Am7 She’s just a girl who, claims that I am the one.

Em F#m/E, G/D But the kid is not my son.

F#m/E Am7 (Em) She says; I am the one, but the kid is not my son.

Interlude: Em F#m/E, G/D F#m/E (x3), Em F#m/E, G/D F#m/E Am7 Em F#m/E, G/D F#m/E She says; I am the one, but the kid is not my son.

Chorus 3: Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Billie Jean is not my lover; Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Am7 She’s just a girl who, claims that I am the one.

Em F#m/E, G/D But the kid is not my son.

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F#m/E Am7 Em F#m/E, G/D She says; I am the one, but the kid is not my son.

F#m/E Am7 Em F#m/E, G/D She says; I am the one, but the kid is not my son.

Coda: F#m/E Em F#m/E, G/D She says; I am the one, F#m/E Em F#m/E, G/D She says he is my son.

F#m/E (Em) She says; I am the one.

Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Billie Jean is not my lover, Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Billie Jean is not my lover.

Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Billie Jean is not my lover, Em F#m/E G/D F#m/E Billie Jean is not my lover.

(Repeat to Fade)

#2

YMCA

The Village People Released in 1978, “YMCA” was No. 2 on the U.S. charts and reached No. 1 in the UK in 1979.

The song’s four letters are usually spelled out through the use of the arms during dance parties.

In 2009, the song was included in Guinness World Book of Records when over 44,000 people danced to the song with Village People singing live at the Sun Bowl game in El Paso, Texas.

G G Em Young man theres no need to feel down i said young man pick your Em C C self of the ground i said young man cause you’re in a new town there’s no D C D C G D G G need to be un hap py young man theres a place you can go i said (only strum down)

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Em Em C young man when your short out on your dough you can stay there and I’m C D C D C G D sure you will find many ways to have a good time D (strum down for this bit) D G EM Its fun to stay at the Y M CA its fun to stay at Y M CA Am Am they have everything for a young man to enjoy D7 D7 G you can hang out with all the boys its fun to stay at the YMCA its fun to EM AM stay at the YMCA you can get yourself clean you can have a good meal you D7 can do waht ever you feel D7 G

#3

Achy Breaky Heart

Billy Ray Cyrus Written by Don Von Tress, the song was recorded by Billy Ray Cyrus in 1992 and became a hit single in most countries it was released. Because of the accompanying video, the tune catapulted line dancing into the mainstream. Though extremely popular, the song was chosen as among of the worst songs of all time.

Intro: A-E-A-E-A-E-A-E A You can tell the world

A And laugh and joke about me on the phone

You know there was no girl E You can burn my clothes when I am gone

A You can tell my arms

Or you can tell your friends Just what a fool I've been 18

Go back into the farm E You can tell my feet to hit the floor

Or you can tell my lips To tell my fingertips

A They won't be reaching out for you no more

Chorus: A But don't tell my heart My achy breaky heart E I just don't think it'd understand And if you tell my heart My achy breaky heart A He might blow up and kill this man Wooooooooo..

-RiffA-E-A-E-A-E-A-E

Chorus: A But don't tell my heart My achy breaky heart E I just don't think it'd understand And if you tell my heart My achy breaky heart A He might blow up and kill this man Whooooooo..

-RiffA-E-A-E-A-E-A-E Chorus (2 times) …He might blow up and kill this man Whoooooooo.. Uooooooo

A You can tell your maw I moved to Arkansas

E You can tell your dog that bit my leg Or tell your brother Cliff Who's fist can tell my lip A He never really liked me anyway A Go tell your aunt Louise Tell anything you please E That sell already knows I'm not okay Or you can tell my eye What’s out for my mind A It might be walkin' out on me one day

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#4

Macarena

Los del Rio Composed in 1992, Macarena was originally titled, “Magdalena�, and later released in six versions with the flamenco rumba pop fusion becoming popular in Spain. In 1996, the Bayside Boys produced a remix version adding English lyrics. The Bayside Boys remix hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in August 1996 and remained at the top of the chart for fourteen weeks. It is claimed that the song produced a world record for group dancing in 1996, when a crowd of 50,000 people danced the Macarena in Yankee Stadium in New York City.

G# F# (Repetitve) Dale a tu cuerpo alegria Macarena Que tu cuerpo es pa' darle alegria y cosa buena Dale a tu cuerpo alegria, Macarena Heeeeey Macarena AAAhAA! Dale a tu cuerpo alegria Macarena Que tu cuerpo es pa' darle alegria y cosa buena Dale a tu cuerpo alegria, Macarena Heeeeey Macarena AAAhAA! Macarena tiene un novio que se llama

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Que se llama de apellido Vitorino, Que en la jura de bandera el muchacho Se la dio con dos amigos Macarena, Macarena, Macarena Que le gusta los veranos de Marbella Macarena, Macarena, Macarena Que le gusta la movida guerrilera Macarena sueña con El Corte Ingles Que se compra los modelos mas modernos Le gustaria vivir en Nueva York Y ligar un novio nuevo AAAAhAA!!

When I dance they call me Macarena And the boys they say que soy buena They all want me, they can't have me So they all come and dance beside me Move with me, chat with me And if I could I'd take you home with me Now don't you worry about my boyfriend The boy who's name is Vitorino I don't want him, couldn't stand him He was no good so I Now come on, what was I supposed to do He was out of town and his two friends were so fine Come find me, my name is Macarena Always at the party con las chicas que estan buenas Come join me, dance with me And all you fellas chat along with me When I dance they call me macarena And the boys they say that I´m buena They all want me, they can´t have me

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So they all come and dance beside me Move with me, chat with me And if you’re good I’ll take you home with me Dale a tu cuerpo alegria macarena Que tu cuerpo pa' darle alegria cosabuena Dal a tu cuerpoEeeh, macarena 2x Now don't you worry about my boyfriend The boy who's name is Vitorino I don't want him, couldn't stand him He was no good so I Now come on, what was I supposed to do He was out of town and his two friends were so fine Ref. 2x Claps Ahai Ahai Keys Ref. 2x Lach Come find me, my name is Macarena Always at the party con las chicas que estan buenas Come join me, dance with me And all you fellas chat along with me

#5

Night Fever

Bee Gees One of the most popular tunes written and performed by the Bee Gees for the soundtrack to Saturday Night Fever was the number one Billboard Hot 100 single for over two months in 1978. It was played in a scene when John Travolta goes into the disco floor and leads everyone else in what appears to be line dancing.

INTRO: C#m7

F#m7

Emaj7

F#m7

C#m7

F#m7

Emaj7

F#m7

B A Listen to the ground, there is movement all around E B There is something goin' down and I can feel it B C#m7 On the waves of the air there is dancin' out there 22

E A B If it's something we can share, we can steal it G#m7 A And that sweet city woman, she moves through the light G#m7 D#m7 Controllin' my mind and my soul G#m7 when you reach out for me, girl C#m7 G# And the feelin' is right CHORUS

C#m7 F#m7 Then I get that Night Fever, Night Fever Emaj7 F#m7 We know how to do it C#m7 F#m7 Gimme that Night Fever, Night Fever Emaj7 F#m7 We know how to show it F# C#m7 F# Here I am, praying for this moment to last C#m7 F# C#m7 F# Livin' on the music so fine, borne on the wind C#m7 F# C# Making it mine CHORUS

C#m7 F#m7 Then I get that Night Fever, Night Fever Emaj7 F#m7 We know how to do it C#m7 F#m7 Gimme that Night Fever, Night Fever Emaj7 F#m7 We know how to show it B A In the heat of our love, don't need no help for us to make it E B Gimme just enough to take us to the mornin' B C#m7 I got fire in my mind, I get higher in my walkin' E A B And I'm glowing in the dark, I give you warning

G#m7 A And that sweet city woman, she moves through the light G#m7 D#m7 Controllin' my mind and my soul G#m7 when you reach out for me, girl C#m7 G# And the feelin' is right CHORUS C#m7 F#m7 Then I get that Night Fever, Night Fever Emaj7 F#m7 We know how to do it C#m7 F#m7 Gimme that Night Fever, Night Fever Emaj7 F#m7 We know how to show it F# C#m7 F# Here I am, praying for this moment to last C#m7 F# C#m7 F# Livin' on the music so fine, borne on the wind C#m7 F# C# Making it mine CHORUS

C#m7 F#m7 Then I get that Night Fever, Night Fever Emaj7 F#m7 We know how to do it C#m7 F#m7 Gimme that Night Fever, Night Fever Emaj7 F#m7

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CORD TOP 5 POP DANCE ARTISTS

Most of the Motown artists were fun to see because of their choreographed performances, and it was just a matter of time that one of its talents would become the Pop Dance icon of all time. During the golden years of the Berry Gordy label, not only was the Motown sound different, its stars including Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, The Temptations and Jackson 5 had the rhythm and moves! But it was Michael Jackson who perfected the marriage of music and dance. Elvis Presley had the groove, but MJ studied each and every beat of a song and moved his body, feet, hands and head in impeccable timing. CORD lists its Top 5 Pop Dance Artists of all time.

#1

MICHAEL JACKSON

The King of Pop is likewise the King of Pop Dance. Not only was MJ a gifted singer and prolific composer, he was an excellent and highly creative choreographer and dancer. MTV, at the height of its popularity, was primarily his stage, and live performances were thoroughly magical and entertaining.

Many have tried to do what he did, including Usher, Chris Brown and Justin Bieber, but nobody has come close enough.

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#2

MADONNA

The eternal morph queen, Madonna is not an exceptional singer; but her ability to adapt to the sound of each generation and transform this to becoming her own explains her longevity. A perfectionist, she comes out with well-choreographed numbers every time she puts on a world tour.

#3

BEYONCE

Among the current crop of artists, Beyonce leaves nothing to chance when it comes to live performances. Always fit like an athlete, she dazzles the audience with power dances plus strong vocal ability. And yes, she is a delight to see. (Jay-z will agree).

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#4

JANET JACKSON

Forget about that bra malfunction, Janet Jackson had some of the best moves on stage, of course, next only to brother Michael. But sadly she has gone through difficult episodes including weight problems, divorce, death of her famous sibling, and it has never been the same.

So let us just make do with videos of the past.

#5

DONNA SUMMER

The list is never complete without the Queen of Disco. Though she was not much of a dancer, Donna Summer had many of us dancing to her groove. Think “MacArthur’s Park” and “Bad Girls”. No dance party is complete without at least a song from Donna Summer.

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CORD TOP 5 POP DANCE MOVIES

#1

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER (1977) Impresario Robert Stigwood must have thought he was simply putting out another dance movie to promote the ebbing popularity of the Bee Gees. The Gibb brothers were tasked to write new songs with R n’ B flavor, and did what they were told under a tight schedule. “Welcome Back, Kotter” star John Travolta took the starring role in the film becoming a household name, and the Bee Gees zoomed up in the pop music pantheon. SNF caught the imagination of world, and got everyone to the multi-color-lighted disco floors.

#2

DIRTY DANCING (1987)

Choreographed by Kenny Ortega, a collaborator of Michael Jackson, Dirty Dancing introduced Patrick Swayze as a dance instructor that gets a teenage girl played by Jennifer Grey, to fall for him. Who can ever forget the couple as they dance to the song, “"(I've Had) The Time of My Life"?

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#3

FLASH DANCE (1983) Always there should be romance to make a dance movie click, so did Flash Dance that starred Jennifer Beals as a welderexotic dancer who dreamt of becoming a ballet dancer. Michael Nouri played the role of her employer and love interest.

No thanks to this movie, jumbo-sweatshirts and leg warmers became fashionable. Of course, you can’t forget Irene Cara’s “Flashdance…What a Feeling”.

#4

FAME (1980)

Long before Disney Channel’s High School Musical, there was Fame that chronicled the lives of a group of students in the New York High School of Music and Art. Surely, popular TV show, Glee, must have been inspired by this film, that spawned a series and a re-boot that didn’t quite ignite as much interest as the original.

#5

FOOTLOOSE (1984) Do you know that Kevin Bacon dances? This film is about a city boy who starts a battle against the conservative residents of a small town. It ends with Bacon and the pastor's daughter played by Lori Singer leading in the high school dance. Kenny Loggins made a mine out of this film with his highly infectious songs.

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FACT SHEET:

EVERLY BROTHERS

Members: Don: February 1, 1937 Phil: January 19, 1939 – January 3, 2014 Genres: Country, rockabilly, rock and roll, pop music Years active: 1957-73; 1983-2013 Influenced: Countless including The Beatles, Simon and Garfunkel, and Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong and jazz singer Norah Jones who released an Everly Brothers tribute album, titled "Foreverly."

Hits: Devoted to You; Wake Up Little Susie; All I Have to Do is Dream; Bye, Bye Love

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DEVOTED TO YOU Everly Brothers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LboNYB_oKTY Intro: G:D-F-Bb-Eb-Ab-A--D# A# D# Darling, you can count on me A# D# Till the sun dries up the sea G# Gm Fm D# Until then I’ll always be G# A# D# Devoted to you.

D# A# D# I’ll be yours through endless time A# D# I’ll adore your charms sublime G# Gm Fm Guess by now, you know that D# I’m G# A# D# Devoted to you\ Refrain: Fm I’ll never hurt you,

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Gm Cm I’ll never lie Fm A# D# I’ll never be untrue; Fm Gm Cm I’ll never give you reason to cry F# A# G# Gm, Fm I’d be unhappy if you were blue.

D# A# Through the years my love will D# grow A# D# Like a river, it will flow G# Gm Fm It can’t die because I’m so G# A# D# Devoted to you.

(Repeat Refrain) (Repeat 3rd stanza adding the chords A and D#)

CORD ARTISTS CHVRCHES (Scotland)

Formed in 2011, Chvches (pronounced as “churches”) are a Scottish electronic band from Glasgow. 2013 was the banner year of the group having released their debut album, The Bones of What You Believe, released on 20 September 2013. Chvrches has toured Europe, USA, Canada and Japan as well as, appeared in festivals like SXSW, Field Day, Canadian Music Fest, Firefly Music Festival, Pitch Festival, T in the Park, Electric Picnic, Summer Sonic, Pukkelpop and Reading Festival. They performed as opening act for Depeche Mode in the latter’s The Delta Machine Tour 2013 at Nîmes, Milan, Prague and Warsaw. In June 2013, Chvrches made their US TV debut performing "The Mother We Share" on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. The group consists of Lauren Mayberry (lead vocals, occasionally synths and samplers), Iain Cook (synths, guitar, bass, vocals) and Martin Doherty (synths, samplers, vocals). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ mTRvJ9fugM

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TANIA VINOKUR (Israel) Born in Moldova (Russia) Tania started her stage career performing when she was 5 years old. At 8 years old she immigrated with her family to Israel where she continued her studies (the Violin studies, Ballet, and the Flamenco dance) in the Tel Aviv Music Academy, the Jerusalem Academy of Dance, and in Flamenco dance academies in Seville and Madrid. "Shine", Tania's newest project featuring the new material takes the fusion one step forward, mixing passionate Latin and Spanish moves with EDM, Deep-house, pop and Oriental touch. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sS8J505-_gs

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SOL3 MIO (New Zealand) Consisting of brothers Pene and Amitai Pati and their cousin Moses Mackay, Sol 3 Mio got the attention of Universal Music with their performances of operatic classics injected with comedic ingredient. They worked their act by weekly childhood performances around South Auckland rest homes. Early in their career, they won Lexus Song Quest awards twice. Producer Nick Patrick (Hayley Westenra and Russell Watson) brought them to London to record an album which became the no. 1 album of New Zealand in 2013 besting Lorde’s Pure Heroine. The Samoan boys had a sold-out show at the Auckland Town Hall in October 2012, and are set for their first extensive national tour in March 2014. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfTC8hkugZ4

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ELLA MELENDEZ (Philippines) At 19 years old, Ella Melendez stopped writing songs. But the love for music could not simply be buried, it persisted. In early 2012, she revived her passion for songwriting and worked on her debut album, “When We’re Not Looking” for 1 year and 8 months.

She had earlier released the song “Flying” that entered the regular playlist of Monster Radio 105.9. The song also became the official jingle for vacation spot, Casa San Pablo. The album, released on November 29 at Gilt Artisan Lounge, is rich with incredible songwriting and powerful stories of love, personal struggles and life’s playful twists and turns. As Ella puts it, “the things that happen when we’re not looking can be truly amazing!” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfYpJAkEYUA

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CORD IMAGES GIGALIVE: THANK YOU NEW ZEALAND November 30, 2013, Auckland Of Songs by Andrew Bignal

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Of Dance by Andrew Bignal

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Of Fashion by Andrew Bignal

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SPECIAL FEATURE:

THANK YOU WORLD It was one of the most devastating typhoons ever, and the Philippines, specifically in the Visayas, succumbed to its wrath causing death to more than 5,000 people, destruction of property and suffering to those who survived.

While peoples of the world witnessed the fury of Typhoon Yolanda/Haiyan through mainstream and social media, a sense of purpose was brought upon them bringing hope to those affected.

Everybody helped. The United Nations, governments, institutions, families and, yes, children contributed to the relief and rehabilitation efforts. For instance in New Zealand, popular television public affairs program, Campbell Live, dedicated an entire one-hour episode to the fundraising organized by school children throughout the country that contributed to the total collection of US$614,000.00 that went to Unicef's relief work in the calamity areas.

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In Cebu City, itself hit by an earthquake, businessmen and artists bonded together to raise funds for places destroyed by the typhoon including Tacloban, Ormoc and the Bantayan Island. International pop star Justin Bieber visited Tacloban, while United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called on donor nations to ramp up aid to the Philippines as it grapples with a funding shortfall on the long road to recovery. "We must not allow this to be another forgotten crisis," Ban told reporters a day after touring the storm-ravaged city of Tacloban. He said the UN had only achieved 30 per cent of the $US791 million ($A895 million) in aid it had appealed for to boost relief and rehabilitation efforts.

Fast & Furious actor Paul Walker who died in a car crash, had come from a Typhoon Haiyan fundraising event he hosted.

Thirty-nine of music’s biggest stars, including Bob Dylan, Beyonce and Lorde, put their songs in an album benefiting victims of Typhoon Haiyan.

Titled “Songs for the Philippines,” the compilation also includes contributions from Madonna (“Like a Prayer”) and U2 (“In a Little While,”) and The Beatles. The album brought together artists from Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group and Sony Entertainment.

Other artists who have taken active roles were Alicia Keys who visited Manila where she met with evacuees and Journey that donated $350,000 in honor of Filipino bandmate Arnel Pineda.

Filipinos all over the world helped as well. And they said thank you to the world for all the help. From handwritten thank you notes from survivors to elaborate concerts, the Filipino people expressed its gratitude to all peoples of the world for giving help and hope.

Salamat.

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ALBUM REVIEWS RANDOM ACCESS MEMORIES

Daft Punk

Daft Punk is better seen than heard as the French electronic music maestros create mindblowing live shows that incorporate audio and visual elements. From 1997, DP has consistently promoted their brand of house music that combines commercial appeal with orchestral ingenuity. They very well know their music as they pay tribute to Giorgi Moroder, who pioneered synth disco and electronic dance music, in “Giorgi by Moroder”. Significantly, Moroder talks in this number. They got to work with another pop dance great Nile Rodgers of Chic, and with Pharrell Williams on vocals in the tune “Get Lucky”, that is a winner. Two other radio-friendlies are “Lose Yourself to Dance” and “Fragments of Time.” But I particularly love “Doin’ It Right” that has both robotic and human ingredients in a slow hand-clapping anthem.

We used to wonder what the music of the future would sound like. Listen to this album and find out, that it is actually here and now.

TRUE Avacii

One of the Top DJs of the world, Avacii, a Swedish, has come out with an album which has more country flavor than electronic dance music that he is master. The first three songs, “Wake Me Up”, “You Make Me”, and “Hey Brother” are disco-fied Mumfurd & Sons riff-offs complete with the harmonies. Did I hear Adele and Lady Gaga in “Addicted to You”? “Dear Boy” is unnecessarily long, while “Liar, Liar” has a promising intro. Okay, put on those flashy lights in the next three cuts. “Heart Upon My Sleeve” is a pretty piece of instrumental composition. Then we go back to the action in the last two pop dance melodies. There is nothing monumental about Avacii. It’s just that he knows his beat and rhythm, and that matters most on the dance floor.

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HOME

Rudimental The British electronic music quartet Rudimental has consistently produced hit songs in the UK chart in 2012-2013 with two number ones singles, “Feel the Love” (featuring John Newman) and “Waiting All Night” (featuring Ella Eyre). The songs are drum-and-bass driven, and can be challenging to the ears and the feet.

Yet these give experience extraordinaire for the uninitiated, with its Afro-tribal roots. “Spoons” featuring MNEK and Syron that uses spoons for percussion and “Baby” are most ear-friendly.

“Powerless”, “More than Anything” and “Not Giving In” are among the gems in this remarkable effort. Closing the album is “Free” that showcases the beautiful vocals of Emeli Sandé.

I can’t wait for Rudimental’s next album.

18 MONTHS Calvin Harris

The Bee Gees once said that when they release an album all the songs are potential hits.

Scottish DJ Calvin Harris cannot be faulted for his third studio album 18 Months that was released in October 2012. It has produced nine top ten singles in UK, the first album to do so.

Those include “Bounce”, “Feel So Close”, “Let’s Go”, “We’ll Be Coming Back”, “Sweet Nothing”, “Drinking from the Bottle”, “I Need Your Love” , “Thinking About You” and “We Found Love” featuring Rihanna. While the contributions of Ne-Yo, Ellie Goulding, Florence Welch and Rihanna may have helped in its record-breaking streak, it basically goes back to Harris who never misses a beat, and fully understands the human rhythm. Now, if only he could duplicate this feat.

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MUSIC + CURRENT Natalie Grant has announced plans to host GSN’s upcoming new original series, IT TAKES A CHURCH. Each one-hour episode of IT TAKES A CHURCH will see members of a Christian congregation play matchmaker in a competition to help an unattached fellow parishioner find their match. GSN has ordered eight episodes of the series, which is scheduled to debut in mid-2014. “I’m so excited to host IT TAKES A CHURCH and have the opportunity to interact with churches all across America to bring a family friendly show based on Christian faith and values,” says Grant. “Church has been such an anchor and source of hope in my own life, and I look forward to showing the sense of community that can be found in the local church”… SON OF GOD: Music Inspired by the Epic Motion Picture was released on December 26. The 12-song collection, a musical companion to the 20th Century Fox feature film “Son of God” due out February 28, features music by today’s top Christian artists including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Everfound, for KING & COUNTRY, Love & The Outcome, Dara Maclean, Point of Grace, Sidewalk Prophets and Group 1 Crew’s No. 1 hit “He Said”… Skillet made their mark overseas in a massive European fall tour with Nickelback where crowds demanded encores, and six back-to-back sold out headline shows in Russia, including over 6,000 screaming fans in Moscow. Their single “Not Gonna Die” held onto the No. 1 spot on the Christian Rock charts for the three weeks, is Top 20 and climbing on mainstream Active Rock and their Hot AC single, “Fire and Fury” is Top 10. The band is co-headlining The Roadshow, which kicked off January 9, 2014 in Sacramento, CA. with Third Day on 20 more domestic dates throughout the spring.…Singer/songwriter John Mark McMillan is gearing up for the independent release of his fourth studio album titled Borderland on March 4, 2014. This will be the first album released through McMillan’s recently launched record label, Lionhawk Records funded by a Kickstarter campaign raising over $69,000 and backed by more than 1,500 contributors. Fresh off the heels of a Christmas tour, John Mark recently released an original Christmas single via Noisetrade titled “Baby Son,” which has been downloaded by over 10,000 listeners.

All proceeds from this song went to World Vision’s relief efforts in the Philippines.

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HAIKUS Nativity scene So real, so full of life My heart’s in heaven

It is raining hard Took a refuge in Hog’s Breath A fam’lies reward

*** Pokutukawa Red flowering Christmas trees We are missing you

*** Stand guard with a lance Against the Spanish soldiers It’s Sinulog dance.

*** Not much firecrackers Exploding on New Year’s Eve It doesn’t matter

*** The beat of the drums In North Shore Event Centre The Holy Child hums

*** Where are the children?

Shouting, jumping on New Year Time must be slipping

*** Love is in the air Candle light and serenades I love you, my dear

*** Morning has broken We sang with our hearts on fire Come world, awaken *** Take down the decors The holidays are over Life is still on course

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To be continued‌

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GOOD LAUGH Perfect Gift Husband: “Happy Valentine’s, Love. I’ve bought you the perfect gift!”

Wife (so excited): “Tell me what it is?”

Husband: “I bought you a belt and a bag.”

Wife: “That is so sweet of you, dear.”

She opens the beautifully wrapped package, and is totally speechless.

Husband: “I knew that you needed those for the vacuum cleaner.” *** A Ring Boyfriend: “What would you want on Valentine’s Day?” Girlfriend: “A ring?

Boyfriend: “Your wish is my command.”

On February 14, girlfriend got her wish. She was awakened by a call from boyfriend.

Boyfriend: “Hello. As promised, I’m giving a ring on your phone, first thing in the morning. I love you.” *** Love is Blind Wanting to meet a partner, single man goes to a bar that specialised in blind dating. He entered a totally dark space where other love-seeking singles had congregated. For about two hours, he had a beautiful and intimate conversation with one woman.

Single man: “I’m Allan. Would you want us to meet outside where we can see each other?”

Single woman: “I don’t really mind. I’m Jennifer and I’m wearing a red dress.”

Single man leaves the bar, and waits for sometime outside.

A beautiful woman in a tight red dress comes out.

Single man: “Are you Jennifer?”

The woman says “No”, and meets up with a handsome gentleman across the street.

An ugly woman also in a red dress exits the bar.

Single man hesitates to ask, not wanting to get involved.

The woman approaches him. She asks if his name was Allan and if he was looking for Jennifer.

Single man responds both in the negative.

The woman apologizes saying that her best friend, Jennifer, asked her to go out first to inquire before she came out.

Single man: “Jennifer, who?”

A very pretty lady in red comes out from the bar. “Oh,” says the apologetic woman, “My friend is Jennifer Lawrence.”

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Confessions of a Dancer

By Melodi Jam I love to dance. Dance is a huge part of who I am. It is what defines my passion and happiness.

For that reason, I consider myself a dancer.

When I was little, I’d dance as my father strummed his guitar. My mother always called on me to dance in front of visitors and friends. I hated it, but once the music played I was happily skipping and swaying.

I joined the dance troupe in high school and even competed in ballroom dancing. I must have been good, as I won medals. I took Bachelor of Dance for a year, and later accepted dance choreography projects. From 2010, I taught Zumba.

For me, dance is a creative expression of an emotion or a story using movement and music. The creativity part is one of the things I enjoy in a dance. Every time I get asked to choreograph, I listen to the music and imagine the whole dance sequence in my head. Ideas fly around and I’d pick the most amazing of them all.

One of the memorable dances I got involved with was choreographing an ethnic dance for the Auckland International Carnival Festival. Sinulog, one of the biggest festivals in the Philippines, was the inspiration, and I had always dreamed of making a Sinulog dance, but never had the opportunity in the past. I had to use all the creative ideas I had stored in my brain for years.

Teamwork was most important in creating that dance. We had an amazing cultural leader, Ching, who communicated well to all members and me, as choreographer. She made all my ideas come to life, including the costumes and props. The dancers were superb and cooperative. When the group (Katilingbang Bisaya sa New Zealand) performed, I was filled with pride and joy. Their energies hit the roof. I could not help but scream for them as loud as I could. For all our efforts, we did the unbelievable: we won first in the competition. It made me realize that a dance is not only about movement to music, but also, involves creativity, commitment and unity.

How does it feel when I dance? It is like being on top of the world: absolute freedom, amalgamating with the music. I am able to forget all my worries and attain utopia.

I find pleasure in dancing, but the feeling does not compare to the happiness brought when the audience applaud. One of the best parts of dance is the giving of joy to the audience.

Dance gives me fulfilment that somehow I am able to make someone happy. It makes me thankful to God for the talent and skill, and that realization that I had made a difference to someone’s day.

The keys to success in dance include: being true to yourself and doing what you love to do.

Yea, just do it. Live, laugh, love and just dance!

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KIM & EL

MR JEYDI’S WITDOM

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FILM REVIEWS

12 Years A Slave 12 Years a Slave is based on a 1853 autobiography by Solomon Northup, a free negro who was abducted in 1841 and sold into slavery. The story was validated as authentic in 1968 by Sue Eakin and Joseph Logsdon. Northup (played by Chiwetel Ejiofor) was a skilled carpenter and fiddle player who raised his family in Saratoga, New York. He was enticed by two men for a contract to play in a circus, only to end up drugged and sold as a slave. He goes through a horrifying life as he suffers the indignities of being a chattel and witnesses the sufferings of other slaves.

From anger to helplessness; from acceptance to

hopelessness; from sacrifice to freedom, Ejiofor took on effectively the seesawing emotions required of his role in this gloomy film. While the story concludes with the rescue of Northup and reunion with his family, the endnotes tell of the failure to prosecute those who kidnapped him.

Benedict Cumberbatch (one of the busiest actors in 2013) showed the weakness of a benevolent master William Ford; but it is Michael Fassbender as cruel cotton planter Edwin Epps who makes evil live on screen. The violence and sexual violations depicted in the film are not suitable for viewing of young people. (CORD)

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About Time

The time travel theme has produced some fine romance films such as “Somewhere in Time” and “The Time Traveler’s Wife”. “About Time” is one of the best in this genre having been written and directed by Richard Curtis (director of “Notting Hill” and writer of “Four Weddings and a Funeral”, the two “Bridget Jones” films and “War Horse”.) The story revolves around Tim Lake (Domhnall Gleeson) who is told by his father (Bill Nighy) that men in the family had the ability to travel back in time. While others would have used it for fortune and fame, Tim decides to use it to look for his one true love. In London, he falls for Mary (Rachel McAdams) after meeting her in a Dans le Noir establishment on a night out. But he loses contact with her, when he goes back in time to help out playwright Harry, the owner of the flat he resides, whose play turned out to be a disaster on opening night. He was able to see Mary again and after several fumbles, got everything right through time travel. There are a lot of hilarious scenes (and how Tim was able to get it right finally); but this film is much about the relationship of the couple as it is with that of his father. Tim does not want to part with his dad who died, and

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visits him in the past, but then there is that point when one has to let go, and live the present. He does so but still makes re-takes to make it better. But he comes to a beautiful realization seeing his three children grow. Four descriptions I must tell: Brilliant ensemble; Perfect chemistry of Gleeson and McAdams; Beautifully written story; Must not be missed. (CORD)

audience in suspense as some of the characters cannot be simply taken face value. Directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee created a colourful and heart-warming story around a white and cold background. The beautifully written songs by Robert and Kristen Lopez put more meaning to critical scenes. It won’t be a surprise if there will be a Broadway adaption of this film that founder Walt Disney had wanted to make during his lifetime. This work will make him proud. (CORD)

Frozen The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

There was a time when Disney lost its touch in animation, if not for Pixar’s contributions.

Frozen, that draws inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale “The Snow Queen”, is proof that Mickey House is totally back on track in its home ground. The main characters are Elsa, princess of Arendelle, who possesses cryokinetic powers, and her younger sister Anna.

Once close to each other, they become distant due to sad circumstances. Unlike Disney tales of the past era which had stereotyped villains, Frozen keeps the

It was a good decision that Peter Jackson took over in directing The Hobbit trilogy instead of Guillermo del Toro. Jackson has given his all in the project. While the first episode introduced us to the characters and defined the quest, The Desolation of Smaug, brings us face-to-face with the dragon in the later part of the film. The first hour of this long installment sees the dwarfs led by Thorin Oakenshield together with one hobbit (Bilbo) and a wizard (Gan-

dalf) being pursued by the Orcs, obtaining help from Beorn, the skin-changer and arriving in Mirkwood. While Gandalf departs to investigate the tombs of the Nazgûl where he encounters Dark Lord Sauron; Bilbo and company experience more dangers. Enter Wood Elves Legolas and Tauriel who provide a bit of love story and great fighting sequences. The encounter of Bilbo with Smaug (voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch) is fun and exhilarating with the dialogues and the hide-and-seek. The fine details not just in terms in technicality, but also in storytelling show the love and respect of Jackson for Tolkien’s epic tale. Finally, we bow to Jackson for he really knows how to build up interest for the final part, as we are left with questions that will nag us until December 2014. (CORD)

Saving Mr. Banks

lywood’s blatant commercialism, was the extreme opposite of the likeable Disney. Explained producer Ian Collie, ‘’It’s about that battle of wills between two polarising, contrasting figures, and that wonderful cultural battle between English literary high art and the king of populism, and her mistrust that he was going to sentimentalise it and make lots of money for his empire.’’ While Travers’ childhood takes a substantial part of the flick, the person, values and philosophy of Disney are clearly defined. This film could well serve as an introductory presentation for anyone wanting to work in one of the world’s biggest entertainment companies. While based on real persons and events, there are fictionalized episodes, if only to makeover Travers. Hanks and Thompson should be commended for their stellar performances.

Also, this film should interest viewers to see Julie Andrews as Mary Poppins. (CORD)

Lauda (Daniel Bruhl) during the 1973 F1 season. The two are opposites in all: character, style and values. Hunt is the hunk who loves women, booze and fast cars, while Lauda is a straight person, conservative and knows his cars.

While Hunt eventually wins the F1 trophy, it is Lauda’s courage and determination that make this film inspiring. Ron Howard (Apollo 13, A Beautiful Mind, The Da Vinci Code and Angels & Demons) who helmed this sports drama captured the humanness of Hunt and Lauda, while at the same time, depicted races as thrilling as “Fast and Furious”, but definitely more real. This movie is a winner. (CORD)

Rush

It took Walt Disney (Tom Hanks) twenty years to get P. L. Travers (Emma Thompson) author of Mary Poppins to agree to make the film of the character she created. Travers, who had disdain for Disney’s animation films and Hol-

This is a biopic about rival Formula One drivers James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) and Niki

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